Terra Mítica is starting its Christmas celebrations during the bank holiday weekend at the start of December. From December 6th to 8th, the theme park in Benidorm will open its doors to give you the chance to try out all its rides. There will also be a traditional Christmas market where you will find toys, chocolates and nougat, and even a farm.
This Christmas, in addition to its usual shows and restaurants, Terra Mítica will be offering all kinds of new attractions including its giant tree, the real-life nativity scene, entertainment and shows, workshops and a wide variety of children's games.
Plus, until January 4th, Ocionía will be opening its restaurants and shops, and for its bravest visitors, a large number of rides such as Infinnito, la Batalla de la Pirámide and Atalaya, the new adventure park. You really won't want to miss out!
Source: comunitatvalenciana.com
Wednesday, 3 December 2008
Thursday, 6 November 2008
Major Fiestas in Benidorm
It's the big one, the one we've all been waiting for, the Benidorm Fiesta 2008. Friday's the day the action starts in earnest and whilst many of the items on the programme are the same as in years past there are one or two changes. Some of the venues and routes have been changed because of works being carried out in those areas but it shouldn't have any effect on the fun.
MAJOR FIESTAS PROGRAMME 2008
FRIDAY 7TH NOVEMBER
18:00 LIGHTING of the ARTISTIC ILLUMINATION. Afterwards, INAUGURATION OF THE FAIRGROUND next to the Bull Ring.
23:00 ''PENYAS'' INFORMAL PARADE. Meeting of the ''Peñas'' at C/ Ruzafa. Parade around Ruzafa and Martínez Alejos streets.
00:30 BLUES & BEATLES NIGHT at Constitution square. Performing ''LOS INSÓLITOS'' and ''EMPTY BOTTLES''.
SATURDAY 8TH NOVEMBER
10:00 MASS at the Church of San Jaime, in honour to the Virgin of the Suffrage, singed by the Barqueta Choir.
11:45 Opening of the doors at San Jaime Church to sing the VERSES IN HONOUR TO THE VIRGIN.
12:00 BELL RINGING followed by a spectacular ''AIR BOMBING'' from Plaza Castelar, to announce that...
THE MAJOR FIESTAS HAVE BEGUN!
13:00 MEETING OF MUSIC BANDS in Plaza de SS. MM. los Reyes de España, to perform the piece ''FIESTA IN BENIDORM''.
17:00 THEATRICAL PERFORMANCE OF THE FOUNDING OF THE VIRGIN at Poniente Beach.
18:30 SOLEMN PROCESSION leaving from Parque de Elche (Harbour) through the following streets: Paseo de la Carretera, Alameda and Mayor. When the procession gets to the church there will be a FLOWER OFFERING TO THE VIRGIN followed by the ANNOUNCEMENT OF THE FIESTAS at Plaza San Jaime. Afterwards there will be a BIG FIREWORK DISPLAY.
24:00 Grand Fiesta Flower-Power 70-80´s years, in C/ Tomás Ortuño (L´ Hort de Colón).
24:00 LOCAL ROCK BANDS FESTIVAL, in Plaza de la Constitución. Performing: 'LOCOS DE ATAR', 'CRACH', 'DE BITTER END', 'SKATIMAT' and 'CAMPINGAS'.
SUNDAY 9TH NOVEMBER: VIRGIN OF THE SUFFRAGE´S DAY
08:00 First DESPERTÀ (awakening) by the local bands…and from now on, every morning.
11:00 CYCLING RACE at the Av. Vicente Llorca Alós and surroundings (La Cala).
11:30 SOLEMN MASS in honour of the Virgin, at the Church of San Jaime, singed by Agrupación Coral de Sant Cluny (Novelda)
12:00 Children playground in Plaza SS.MM. Los Reyes de España.
13:00 Degustation of Anís Tenis, in Paseo de Colón (Harbour).
14:00 NEAPOLITAIN MASCLETÀ (SUPER BIG BANGER DISPLAY) at Playa de Poniente (Harbour), by Pirotecnia Zamorano Caballer.
17:00 Show for children at Tomás Ortuño Street (L´Hort de Colón).
19:00 SOLEMN PROCESSION IN HONOUR TO THE VIRGIN OF THE SUFFRAGE. Itinerary: Mayor, Alameda, Los Ángeles, Pintor Lozano, Virgen del Sufragio, Martínez Alejos, Paseo de la Carretera, Santa Faz and Plaza de San Jaime. Afterwards ''ESTAMPETA''.
23:00 Traditional COPLETES singed to the Virgin of the Suffrage at Plaza de San Jaime, followed by the NIT d´ALBAES around the Old Town.
00:30 AMAZING CONCERT of the group ''LA CASA AZUL'', at Plaza SS.MM. Los Reyes de España.
00:30 Open Air Dance with Orchestra at Tomas Ortuño street (L´ Hort de Colón).
02:00 CONCERT of ''THE VICKYLEYTONES'' at Plaza Constitución.
MONDAY 10TH NOVEMBER: SAINT JAMES´ DAY
11:00 Ronald McDonalds performance at Plaza de la Hispanidad. Afterwards, Stunt Motorcycling Exhibition in Bilbao Avenue.
11:30 SOLEMN MASS at San Jaime´s Church, in honour to Saint James, singed by the Benidorm Choir.
12:30 Sardines for everyone at Ametlla de Mar Avenue (Rincón de Loix).
14:00 Marvellous MASCLETA (super big banger) at Av. Mediterráneo by Pirotencia Zamorano Caballer.
17:00 Children´s Theater ''El Profesor Chiflado'' at C/ Tomás Ortuño (L´ Hort de Colón)
19:00 SOLEMN PROCESSION IN HONOUR TO SAINT JAMES by the streets: Mayor, Alameda, Paseo de la Carretera, Santa Faz and Plaza San Jaime. Afterwards ESTAMPETA.
23:30 WONDERFUL NOCTURNAL MASCLETÁ (fireworks and bangers) at Av. Mediterráneo by Pirotencia Zamorano Caballer.
24:00 Open Air Dance with Orchestra at Tomás Ortuño street (near the new indoor market).
00:30 ''LOS SECRETOS'' IN CONCERT at Plaza de SSMM Los Reyes de España.
Afterwards BIG ''CORREFOC'' (moving fire and sound show ) by ''XARXA TEATRE'' from Plaza SSMM Los Reyes de España, going through the Old Town streets to Paseo Colón (Harbour).
TUESDAY 11TH NOVEMBER
10:30 SOLEMN REQUIEM MASS at San Jaime Church singed by the Church Choir. Afterwards OFFERING OF FLOWER GARLANDS
to the Dead in the Sea at Plaza de la Señoría.
11 to 14:00 Puppet Show and Story Tellers at Plaza Constitución.
12:30 Sardines for everyone at La Cala.
14:00 GREAT MASCLETÀ (super big banger) at Av. Mediterráneo by Pirotécnia Zamorano Caballer.
16:30 Traditional ''Cucañas'', at Plaza de la Constitución.
17:00 Concert of ''BIG BAND DEL GRUPO LOS GAVILANES'', at Plaza Mayor.
19:00 FUNNY COSTUMES PARADE. Itinerary: Parque de Elche, Almendros, Marte, Venus, Ruzafa, and Martínez Alejos.
23:00 Delivery of prizes by ''PEPE EL CHANCLAS'' (leader of the spanish band 'NO ME PISES QUE LLEVO CHANCLAS'), in C/ Tomás Ortuño (L´ Hort de Colón)).
23:30 I FESTIVAL FIESTAS DE BENIDORM HIP-HOP 2008 presented by Splashmanía + The Jackboyz, performing: Densy (Barcelona), Souey (Benidorm), Métrica Impoluta (Villajoyosa) and Bonobo and Sagaz (Zaragoza), at Avda. Bilbao.
WEDNESDAY 12TH NOVEMBER
11 to 14 CHILDREN´S DAY. PLAYPARK and other activities for children at Plaza SS.MM. Los Reyes de España.
11:00 FESTA DE LES FESTES. Parade around the town of the different Fiestas Commitees departing from Plaza Neptuno, Parque de Elche (Harbour) and Plaza de la Hispanidad to go to Plaza de SS.MM Los Reyes de España, where the Fiestas Queens will receive them.
18:00 FLOAT PARADE through the following streets: Parque de Elche, Almendros, Marte, Venus, Ruzafa, Martínez Alejos, Alcoy and finishing at Bilbao Avenue. Afterwards, MARVELLOUS FIREWORK DISPLAY at Poniente Beach (Harbour).
¡MERRY FIESTAS FOR EVERYONE!
Source: Ona Sol Hotels
Wednesday, 29 October 2008
Celebrate Halloween at Terra Mítica!
This Halloween, Terra Mítica brings to life the stars of your worst nightmares! Count Dracula, terrifying mummies, sullen gravediggers and women possessed by entertaining spectres... you'll never forget your Halloween at Benidorm's theme park.
Over twenty actors will be bringing to life famous characters from the fear factory, including for the first time this year Jack the Ripper. Special guests include the Adams Family who will be mingling with the visitors and ensuring a terror-ific time!
But the Halloween celebrations at Terra Mítica will be more than just atmosphere and spooky spectacle; the bars and restaurants will also be offering ghastly culinary and the Egypt, area will be serving themed menus and dishes with names such as Casper and Chucky.
Get ready for the most terrifying holiday of the year; you’ll have until November 2nd to put mettle to the test and see what you’re made of!
Source: comunitatvalenciana.com
Over twenty actors will be bringing to life famous characters from the fear factory, including for the first time this year Jack the Ripper. Special guests include the Adams Family who will be mingling with the visitors and ensuring a terror-ific time!
But the Halloween celebrations at Terra Mítica will be more than just atmosphere and spooky spectacle; the bars and restaurants will also be offering ghastly culinary and the Egypt, area will be serving themed menus and dishes with names such as Casper and Chucky.
Get ready for the most terrifying holiday of the year; you’ll have until November 2nd to put mettle to the test and see what you’re made of!
Source: comunitatvalenciana.com
Tuesday, 30 September 2008
Moors and Christians in Benidorm
MOORS AND CHRISTIANS
BENIDORM 2nd to 5TH OCTOBER 2008
Thursday, 2nd October:
22:30 h. MOORISH ATTACK. At Levante Beach (opposite to Valencia street) the Christians will set their camp and the Moors will meet next to the Old Town Hall to go to the christians camp, where there will be a BATTLE between the Moors and Christians.
Friday, 3rd October:
10:30 h. REVEILLE. ITINERARY: plaza Neptuno, Almendros, Paseo de la Carretera, Martínez Alejos, Gambo and Plaza de la Hispanidad. Around 11:30 h will take place the DELIVERY OF THE CITY KEYS by the Major of Benidorm to the Christian Queen.
18:00 h. MOORISH EMBASSY. The Christians won´t leave the Castle, so the war will be declared with the ALARDO (boasting), that will take place in the streets surrounding the Castle, finishing with the taking of the Castle by the Moor King.
19:00 h. CHRISTIAN EMBASSY. Now the christians are the ones to ask the moors to leave the Castle. ITINERARY: the same as before. Afterwards will take place the RECONQUEST of the Castle, by the Christian troops.
Saturday, 4th October:
10:00 h. REVEILLE. Same itinerary as the day before.
19:00 h. ''ENTRADA''. MARVELLOUS PARADE OF MOORS AND CHRISTIANS. ITINERARY: Plaza Neptuno, Venus, Ruzafa, Martínez Alejos, Gambo, Plaza de laHispanidad and Av. Bilbao.
MOORS:Filà Musulmanes Tagarinos, Tuareg, Nazaríes and Benidarhíms (Moor King).
CHRISTIANS:Cavallers de la Baronía, Cruzados and Contrabandistas (Christian Queen).
Sunday, 5th October:
12:00 h. PARLEY between the Prince of Kairuán and the Governor of the Castle. Around 12:30 h. GREAT FLOWER OFFERING TO SAN JAIME. ITINERARY: Plaza de la Hispanidad, Gambo, Martínez Alejos, Alameda and Mayor.
13:00 h. Solemn Mass at San Jaime Church, singed by the Choir La Barqueta of Benidorm. 19:30 h. PARADE OF FLOATS.ITINERARY: Tomás Ortuño, Venus, Ruzafa, Martínez Alejos, Gambo and Plaza de la Hispanidad. Afterwards there will be a magnificent NOCTURNAL ''MASCLETÀ'' (bangers sound show and fireworks) at Av. Mediterráneo.
IMPORTANT: The hours before mentioned are departing hours and they can be changed by the Organization.
Source: comunitatvalenciana.com
BENIDORM 2nd to 5TH OCTOBER 2008
Thursday, 2nd October:
22:30 h. MOORISH ATTACK. At Levante Beach (opposite to Valencia street) the Christians will set their camp and the Moors will meet next to the Old Town Hall to go to the christians camp, where there will be a BATTLE between the Moors and Christians.
Friday, 3rd October:
10:30 h. REVEILLE. ITINERARY: plaza Neptuno, Almendros, Paseo de la Carretera, Martínez Alejos, Gambo and Plaza de la Hispanidad. Around 11:30 h will take place the DELIVERY OF THE CITY KEYS by the Major of Benidorm to the Christian Queen.
18:00 h. MOORISH EMBASSY. The Christians won´t leave the Castle, so the war will be declared with the ALARDO (boasting), that will take place in the streets surrounding the Castle, finishing with the taking of the Castle by the Moor King.
19:00 h. CHRISTIAN EMBASSY. Now the christians are the ones to ask the moors to leave the Castle. ITINERARY: the same as before. Afterwards will take place the RECONQUEST of the Castle, by the Christian troops.
Saturday, 4th October:
10:00 h. REVEILLE. Same itinerary as the day before.
19:00 h. ''ENTRADA''. MARVELLOUS PARADE OF MOORS AND CHRISTIANS. ITINERARY: Plaza Neptuno, Venus, Ruzafa, Martínez Alejos, Gambo, Plaza de laHispanidad and Av. Bilbao.
MOORS:Filà Musulmanes Tagarinos, Tuareg, Nazaríes and Benidarhíms (Moor King).
CHRISTIANS:Cavallers de la Baronía, Cruzados and Contrabandistas (Christian Queen).
Sunday, 5th October:
12:00 h. PARLEY between the Prince of Kairuán and the Governor of the Castle. Around 12:30 h. GREAT FLOWER OFFERING TO SAN JAIME. ITINERARY: Plaza de la Hispanidad, Gambo, Martínez Alejos, Alameda and Mayor.
13:00 h. Solemn Mass at San Jaime Church, singed by the Choir La Barqueta of Benidorm. 19:30 h. PARADE OF FLOATS.ITINERARY: Tomás Ortuño, Venus, Ruzafa, Martínez Alejos, Gambo and Plaza de la Hispanidad. Afterwards there will be a magnificent NOCTURNAL ''MASCLETÀ'' (bangers sound show and fireworks) at Av. Mediterráneo.
IMPORTANT: The hours before mentioned are departing hours and they can be changed by the Organization.
Source: comunitatvalenciana.com
Tuesday, 2 September 2008
Cosmopolitan Benidorm
It's official. Benidorm is one of Spain's most cosmopolitan cities with no less than 121 nationalities living within its boundaries.
The town hall has just completed a survey of its residents which shows that 35% of them, 25,760 people, are foreign nationals, a massive increase from seven years ago when the figure was 10%.
On the other side of the coin, the number of Spanish people living in Benidorm has actually decreased by almost 4000 in the last seven years!
Source: benidorm-spotlight.com
The town hall has just completed a survey of its residents which shows that 35% of them, 25,760 people, are foreign nationals, a massive increase from seven years ago when the figure was 10%.
On the other side of the coin, the number of Spanish people living in Benidorm has actually decreased by almost 4000 in the last seven years!
Source: benidorm-spotlight.com
Friday, 8 August 2008
Miss Ona Sol Contest
Thursday 07/08/08 in Hotel Los Dálmatas was celebrated the yearly Miss Ona Sol Contest. 16 girls from different Hotels of the chain participated.The winner of the night was: Lore Aendeker from Belgium staying in Hotel Avenida.
1ª Lady of Honour: Carla from England staying in Hotel Bristol Park.
2ª Lady of Honour: Beatriz from Spain staying in Hotel Brasil.
Miss Sympathy: Elena Sanchez from Spain staying in Hotel Fleming.
All winners received 2 free entrances of the theme parks: Terra Natura, Aqua Natura, Aqualandia, Mundomar and Terra Mítica.
The winner of Miss Ona Sol 2008 was also given a free week of Holiday in the Hotel of her choice within the Ona Sol Hotel chain.
We would like to say thank you to all participants and at the same time express our gratitude to the Theme parks for their participation in this contest year after year.Source: Ona Sol Hotels
Wednesday, 30 July 2008
Terra Mítica moves to the beat of ''Fama, el musical''
First came the blockbuster movie, then the long-running TV series and now Fama comes to Terra Mítica as a musical. The sensation of the 80's is on stage at the Circus Maximus at 7.30 pm. from Monday to Sunday and at 12 pm. on Saturdays up to 31st August.
After the incredible success of High School Musical, the Benidorm theme park, Terra Mítica, has programmed for August another show with acclaimed success worldwide: Fama, el musical. This means that, this summer, Terra Mítica is offering visitors two top quality shows.
Fame tells the story of a group of students who spend four years studying performing arts. The show deals with the topics facing the youngsters attending the New York High School for the Performing Arts between 1980 and 1984, where their unceasing efforts to make their dreams come true bring out the best in them.
While touching on modern-day issues, the multi-ethnic cast of actors, singers and dancers perform contemporary pop songs, which include the hit Fame, making the musical undoubtedly perfect for a family outing.
Source: comunitatvalenciana.com
After the incredible success of High School Musical, the Benidorm theme park, Terra Mítica, has programmed for August another show with acclaimed success worldwide: Fama, el musical. This means that, this summer, Terra Mítica is offering visitors two top quality shows.
Fame tells the story of a group of students who spend four years studying performing arts. The show deals with the topics facing the youngsters attending the New York High School for the Performing Arts between 1980 and 1984, where their unceasing efforts to make their dreams come true bring out the best in them.
While touching on modern-day issues, the multi-ethnic cast of actors, singers and dancers perform contemporary pop songs, which include the hit Fame, making the musical undoubtedly perfect for a family outing.
Source: comunitatvalenciana.com
Wednesday, 23 July 2008
Moors and Christians in La Vila Joiosa
The Moors and Christians festival in La Vila Joiosa in honour of Santa Marta have been declared to be of International Tourist Interest and are very popular with visitors who come to the historical capital of the Marina Baixa region in July. During July, local residents remember the desperate battle and commemorate the miracles attributed to their patron saint, Santa Marta.
2008 sees the 470th anniversary of the attempted invasion by Zalé-Arraez Berber pirates. The attempt failed due to a fierce storm that destroyed the Saracen fleet. Every year, local residents pay their own special tribute to the event with the parades of the Moorish and Christian groups. This year, the Arab army takes to the streets on July 25th in its spectacular finery. The following day sees the Christians counterattack with their spectacular costumes and hypnotic rhythms.
The high spot is undoubtedly the Moorish Landing which takes place in the early hours of July 28th on the Centro beach and consists of a naval battle between Moorish and Christian vessels, after which the participants jump into the water and swim ashore to take the castle, all to the sound of music and unending blunderbuss shots.
Source: comunitatvalenciana.com
2008 sees the 470th anniversary of the attempted invasion by Zalé-Arraez Berber pirates. The attempt failed due to a fierce storm that destroyed the Saracen fleet. Every year, local residents pay their own special tribute to the event with the parades of the Moorish and Christian groups. This year, the Arab army takes to the streets on July 25th in its spectacular finery. The following day sees the Christians counterattack with their spectacular costumes and hypnotic rhythms.
The high spot is undoubtedly the Moorish Landing which takes place in the early hours of July 28th on the Centro beach and consists of a naval battle between Moorish and Christian vessels, after which the participants jump into the water and swim ashore to take the castle, all to the sound of music and unending blunderbuss shots.
Source: comunitatvalenciana.com
Iglesias for Benidorm
As we predicted some while ago, Julio Iglesias will celebrate his 40 years in show business with a Benidorm concert. The crooner will return to the city, where he made his first triumph by winning the 1968 Benidorm Song Contest, on Saturday 16th August.
The town's bull ring is the venue for the concert starting at 22.30 and only 5000 tickets are on sale and cost from 75eur up to 300eur. Other facts and figures that apply are a 24 metre stage, 2 giant high resolution video screens, 150,000 watts of lighting, 60,000 watts of sound, 8 musicians and 3 backing singers.
Now all we want to know is if his sons will join him on stage as was rumoured many months ago?
Source: benidorm-spotlight.com
The town's bull ring is the venue for the concert starting at 22.30 and only 5000 tickets are on sale and cost from 75eur up to 300eur. Other facts and figures that apply are a 24 metre stage, 2 giant high resolution video screens, 150,000 watts of lighting, 60,000 watts of sound, 8 musicians and 3 backing singers.
Now all we want to know is if his sons will join him on stage as was rumoured many months ago?
Source: benidorm-spotlight.com
Tram: If you build it,
They will come. The extension of the new super tram line to Benidorm has been a great success which has way surpassed expectations. Since travellers have been able to travel direct from Benidorm to Alicante without having to change from the old train system to the new tram, passenger use has almost tripled.
In May around 50,000 passengers travelled along the route, in June, when trams were running all month, 131,000 people climbed aboard. And no wonder, the tram is an easy, cheap way to see the coast, resorts like Vila Joyosa, El Campello and the San Juan beach area, as well as to have a day sight-seeing in Alicante.
Source: benidorm-spotlight.com
In May around 50,000 passengers travelled along the route, in June, when trams were running all month, 131,000 people climbed aboard. And no wonder, the tram is an easy, cheap way to see the coast, resorts like Vila Joyosa, El Campello and the San Juan beach area, as well as to have a day sight-seeing in Alicante.
Source: benidorm-spotlight.com
Wednesday, 18 June 2008
Alicante lights up with the Hogueras de San Juan Festival
To celebrate the arrival of summer, Alicante will party in style with the Hogueras de San Juan, which has been officially declared a Festival of Interest to International Tourism. The festivities reach their peak on 20th, 21st, 22nd and 23rd, with the night of 24th June being the most important date on the calendar for the people of Alicante.
The programme of activities is already in full swing. With the rattle of the firecrackers and a marked whiff of gunpowder, the city's residents and visitors are set to enjoy Alicante's first ever night-time mascletaes nocturnes, firecracker competition, Pólvora a la Nit, which will be held at midnight every day from Monday 16th to Wednesday 18th June at various locations around the city: more specifically, next to Estrella square, on Cruz Roja square and on Los Luceros square.
In the run-up to the night of San Juan, the shortest night in the year, there will be the traditional plantà de ninots de carrer or the setting up of the satirical effigies in the streets on the 19th June. This is an unmissable opportunity for visitors to appreciate and admire the strength and skill that goes into the design and construction of these ephemeral works of art. On Friday 20th June, the finishing touches are made with the plantà de les Fogueres or the setting up of the bonfires, in preparation for the big day.
Without a shadow of a doubt, the most eagerly anticipated moment for all arrives on 24th June with the burning of the official bonfire and the official children's bonfire on Ayuntamiento square next to the City Hall, followed by the burning of the other monuments and the entrances to the barracas.Alicante will then see the festival out with a bang on 25th and 26th June in the manner it knows best, on the seafront with gunpowder and the best possible company - that of residents and tourists.
Fuente: comunitatvalenciana.com
The programme of activities is already in full swing. With the rattle of the firecrackers and a marked whiff of gunpowder, the city's residents and visitors are set to enjoy Alicante's first ever night-time mascletaes nocturnes, firecracker competition, Pólvora a la Nit, which will be held at midnight every day from Monday 16th to Wednesday 18th June at various locations around the city: more specifically, next to Estrella square, on Cruz Roja square and on Los Luceros square.
In the run-up to the night of San Juan, the shortest night in the year, there will be the traditional plantà de ninots de carrer or the setting up of the satirical effigies in the streets on the 19th June. This is an unmissable opportunity for visitors to appreciate and admire the strength and skill that goes into the design and construction of these ephemeral works of art. On Friday 20th June, the finishing touches are made with the plantà de les Fogueres or the setting up of the bonfires, in preparation for the big day.
Without a shadow of a doubt, the most eagerly anticipated moment for all arrives on 24th June with the burning of the official bonfire and the official children's bonfire on Ayuntamiento square next to the City Hall, followed by the burning of the other monuments and the entrances to the barracas.Alicante will then see the festival out with a bang on 25th and 26th June in the manner it knows best, on the seafront with gunpowder and the best possible company - that of residents and tourists.
Fuente: comunitatvalenciana.com
Neither Rubbish Nor Jellyfish
Great news for sea users round Benidorm way. It seems that the rains we had in Spring are having an extremely beneficial effect on the amount of jellyfish in the sea. Boffins from the Institute of Marine Sciences reckon that the amount of rainwater flowing into the sea round the coast has formed an impenetrable barrier keeping the pesky jellyfish, which only like salt water, well away from the beaches.
Meanwhile Benidorm's firemen took some time off from risking life and limb rescuing cats left out on a limb to clean up the seabed round La Cala de Finestrat. The area at the far west end of Benidorm yielded a multitude of rubbish from a depth of 10 to 12 metres, chucked in by 'people without scruples.' Amongst the junk recovered were tons of tins, bottles, a motorbike chassis and an old telly ideal for watching 'Titanic' or 'The Undersea world of Jacques Cousteau.'
Source: benidorm-spotlight.com
Meanwhile Benidorm's firemen took some time off from risking life and limb rescuing cats left out on a limb to clean up the seabed round La Cala de Finestrat. The area at the far west end of Benidorm yielded a multitude of rubbish from a depth of 10 to 12 metres, chucked in by 'people without scruples.' Amongst the junk recovered were tons of tins, bottles, a motorbike chassis and an old telly ideal for watching 'Titanic' or 'The Undersea world of Jacques Cousteau.'
Source: benidorm-spotlight.com
Monday, 9 June 2008
New Shows for Terra Mitica
We all love a good all-singing-all-dancing musical spectacular and so Terra Mitica has just the shows for us this summer. Two of the planet's most popular musicals - High School Musical and Fame (you're singing 'I'm going to live forever' now, aren't you?) - will be performed in the Benidorm theme park's Circus Maximus arena.
Over 250,000 euros has been spent on alterations to the arena which improve the acoustics, lighting and seating facilities for 2000 people! The season kicks off with High School Musical on 29th June until 13th July, followed by Fame (you're singing 'Baby remember my name' now?) from 1st to 17th August.
Tickets will cost 25 or 35 euros depending on the seats. See you there?
Source: Benidorm-spotlight.com
Over 250,000 euros has been spent on alterations to the arena which improve the acoustics, lighting and seating facilities for 2000 people! The season kicks off with High School Musical on 29th June until 13th July, followed by Fame (you're singing 'Baby remember my name' now?) from 1st to 17th August.
Tickets will cost 25 or 35 euros depending on the seats. See you there?
Source: Benidorm-spotlight.com
United Nations of Benidorm
When we look at Benidorm today with its skyscraper hotels and packed beaches it's difficult to believe that less than 50 years ago its population was around 6000 people. Since then the population has rocketed skywards as fast as new hotels and its make up tells the story of Benidorm too.
Nowadays around 73000 people are registered here with the council and, of these, 35% are foreigners who were born in no less than 121 different countries before coming to Benidorm. Many of these immigrants are Brits who have retired here or come to run businesses serving the many British tourists, the other big groups are from Rumania, Argentina and Equador who have come to work in hotels and construction.
It probably won't be a surprise to hear that over half the 47,000 Spanish residents have come to Benidorm from outside the Valencian Community. If you ever been around when the Andalusians or Asturians celebrate their regions' Fiestas you'll know just how many of them there are!
Even better with pretty well every region of Spain represented you can sample the whole of Spain on a plate in Benidorm's bars, cafes and restaurants without having to travel far.
Source: Benidorm-spotlight.com
Nowadays around 73000 people are registered here with the council and, of these, 35% are foreigners who were born in no less than 121 different countries before coming to Benidorm. Many of these immigrants are Brits who have retired here or come to run businesses serving the many British tourists, the other big groups are from Rumania, Argentina and Equador who have come to work in hotels and construction.
It probably won't be a surprise to hear that over half the 47,000 Spanish residents have come to Benidorm from outside the Valencian Community. If you ever been around when the Andalusians or Asturians celebrate their regions' Fiestas you'll know just how many of them there are!
Even better with pretty well every region of Spain represented you can sample the whole of Spain on a plate in Benidorm's bars, cafes and restaurants without having to travel far.
Source: Benidorm-spotlight.com
Wednesday, 4 June 2008
The Peñón de Ifach under full sail
The Real Club Náutico de Calpe will be hosting the 20th Peñón de Ifach Trophy. The competition is held under the endorsement of the Real Federación Española de Vela (Spanish Sailing Association) and the Federación de Vela de la Comunitat Valenciana, (Region of Valencia Sailing Federation) in the waters off Alicante and Formentera.
Since it was first held twenty years ago, the regatta has become the most important event held by the Real Club Náutico Calpe. Nowadays, it is one of the prestigious group of regattas that make up the Campeonato de España de Altura de Cruceros Deep-Water Cruising Championships and thanks to the large number of competitors, it has become one of the most important dates on the national cruising circuit.
The competition is also part of the official calendar and counts towards the 3rd Copa de España de Cruceros RN Cruiser Cup, the Campeonato de España de Altura (Spanish Deep-Water Championships)) and the Campeonato Autonómico de Altura (Regional Deep-Water Championships). 90 vessels (just over four hundred yachtsmen) are expected to take part in the twentieth edition and will set sail from Calpe for the island of Formentera. After a day's rest on the island, the second part of the regatta consists of the stage from Formentera to the port of Calpe.
Once again, the Organising Committee has decided that all vessels taking part should leave at the same time, with 90 vessels sailing across Calpe bay. It will undoubtedly be a spectacular sight.
Source: comunitatvalenciana.com
Since it was first held twenty years ago, the regatta has become the most important event held by the Real Club Náutico Calpe. Nowadays, it is one of the prestigious group of regattas that make up the Campeonato de España de Altura de Cruceros Deep-Water Cruising Championships and thanks to the large number of competitors, it has become one of the most important dates on the national cruising circuit.
The competition is also part of the official calendar and counts towards the 3rd Copa de España de Cruceros RN Cruiser Cup, the Campeonato de España de Altura (Spanish Deep-Water Championships)) and the Campeonato Autonómico de Altura (Regional Deep-Water Championships). 90 vessels (just over four hundred yachtsmen) are expected to take part in the twentieth edition and will set sail from Calpe for the island of Formentera. After a day's rest on the island, the second part of the regatta consists of the stage from Formentera to the port of Calpe.
Once again, the Organising Committee has decided that all vessels taking part should leave at the same time, with 90 vessels sailing across Calpe bay. It will undoubtedly be a spectacular sight.
Source: comunitatvalenciana.com
Sand and Trams
A couple of Benidorm news published the same date, last monday, 2nd of June.
''The new tram system will commence direct journeys from Alicante to Benidorm today without having to change to one of the old trains. The service is every half hour and will take around an hour from A to B, calling at 14 stations. ''
''The Coastal authorities will start moving 15,000 cubic metres of sand to Levante beach today. The sand will give an extra 5 metres width to parts of the beach and will cover some rocks which currently make getting into the sea a little difficult. The sand is being brought all the way from Poniente beach where work on the new promenade has exposed tons of the stuff which needs to be taken elsewhere. ''
Source: benidorm-spotlight.com
''The new tram system will commence direct journeys from Alicante to Benidorm today without having to change to one of the old trains. The service is every half hour and will take around an hour from A to B, calling at 14 stations. ''
''The Coastal authorities will start moving 15,000 cubic metres of sand to Levante beach today. The sand will give an extra 5 metres width to parts of the beach and will cover some rocks which currently make getting into the sea a little difficult. The sand is being brought all the way from Poniente beach where work on the new promenade has exposed tons of the stuff which needs to be taken elsewhere. ''
Source: benidorm-spotlight.com
Thursday, 29 May 2008
Blues Festival in Benidorm
Next 6th, 7th and 8th of June there will be a Blues Festival in Oscar Esplá Auditorium.
Friday 6th / 22.30h: Shemekia Copeland Blues Band - 18 euros in Ticket Office / 15 euros in advance.
Sábado 7 / 22.30h: Gene Taylor & The Blueshackers - 12 euros in Ticket Office / 10 euros in advance.
Domingo 8 / 21.00h: The Robert Cray Band - 24 euros in Ticket Office / 20 euros in advance.
Source: Ona Sol Hotels
Friday 6th / 22.30h: Shemekia Copeland Blues Band - 18 euros in Ticket Office / 15 euros in advance.
Sábado 7 / 22.30h: Gene Taylor & The Blueshackers - 12 euros in Ticket Office / 10 euros in advance.
Domingo 8 / 21.00h: The Robert Cray Band - 24 euros in Ticket Office / 20 euros in advance.
Source: Ona Sol Hotels
Keep Young and Beautiful
As part of their plan to promote innovation and accessibility on Benidorm's beaches the Community Council have installed half a dozen exercise machines on Levante Beach. The idea is that tourists and natives alike can use them to flex their pecs and minimise or maximise the gluteus.
Primarily aimed at elder people (research on over-65's has demonstrated that signs of ageing in muscles appears to be reversed by regular resistance training) the equipment can still be used by others.
It's not really designed for the body-builders amongst us but is perfectly suited to a good all over body exercise programme.
The plan is to install similar equipment on other beaches so that wherever we are on the Costa Blanca we can all be fit as fiddles.
Source: Benidorm-spotlight.com
Primarily aimed at elder people (research on over-65's has demonstrated that signs of ageing in muscles appears to be reversed by regular resistance training) the equipment can still be used by others.
It's not really designed for the body-builders amongst us but is perfectly suited to a good all over body exercise programme.
The plan is to install similar equipment on other beaches so that wherever we are on the Costa Blanca we can all be fit as fiddles.
Source: Benidorm-spotlight.com
Plans to install fibre optic network in Benidorm
The council has started a viability study ahead of offering a service to tender.
Benidorm Town Hall is trying to get a fibre optic network established for the second time. Back in 2004 a concession was awarded to a private company to create the network, but given that three years later no cabling had started the concession was removed. Now the council has voted to launch a viability study for a new tender for a fibre optic network which would bring super high speed internet and data connections.Cost of installing such a network has been estimated at 10 million €, and the company winning a tender would have to pay a sum for the concession to the town hall. Already one company has expressed an interest in developing the service in the town.
Source: typicallyspanish.com
Benidorm Town Hall is trying to get a fibre optic network established for the second time. Back in 2004 a concession was awarded to a private company to create the network, but given that three years later no cabling had started the concession was removed. Now the council has voted to launch a viability study for a new tender for a fibre optic network which would bring super high speed internet and data connections.Cost of installing such a network has been estimated at 10 million €, and the company winning a tender would have to pay a sum for the concession to the town hall. Already one company has expressed an interest in developing the service in the town.
Source: typicallyspanish.com
Thursday, 22 May 2008
Natural Park Life
The Sierra Helada Natural Park which straddles Benidorm and Altea is now three years old and continues to grow in importance. This year it has a budget of 1.3 million euros and part of this will be used to purchase new submarine listening equipment.
This will enable the park's staff to detect whales, porpoises and dolphins as they enter its boundaries (part of it is on land but the vast majority is underwater) by their high pitched chatter. The staff are pleased that these undersea mammals are now returning to the area in much greater numbers than before.
Another benefit of the listening equipment will be to find turtles that have become trapped in fishermen's nets, one of the main causes of the decline in turtle numbers in the Mediterranean.
Its success underwater has been matched on land too as over 140,000 visitors flocked to the park last year, of which 40,000 went by boat, making it the most popular in the Valencia area!
Monday, 19 May 2008
Culinary delights on the seashore in Xàbia, near Denia
From 21st-25th May, Xàbia will welcome the Jornadas Gastronómicas (4th Annual Festival of Gastronomy). Those who love the sea and good food mustn't miss this chance to enjoy delicious dishes in the marquee erected right on the edge of the Arenal beach.
For a few days this point of the Alicante coastline will become the focal point for local gastronomy. For the first time, there will be live music, several ambiences and a raffle for a Mediterranean cruise.
Over the five days you can stroll around the marquee and buy "tasting vouchers" for 15 Euros. They allow you to try up to four different dishes and a cocktail, along with Denomination of Origin wines, desserts, coffee, etc.
This year, the Xàbia Restaurant Owner's Association has decided to dedicate one of the days to the pinchos (snacks) that play such an important role in restaurants along the Costa Blanca.
The 4th Jornadas Gastronómicas will be inaugurated by chefs from the Gota de Mar, La Rústica, Mezquida and Restaurante Sur. The cocktail will be prepared by the barman from the La Esquina bar.
On Thursday 22nd, the dishes will be prepared by the Calima, Club Náutico & Torremar, La Fontana and Trencall restaurants, while the cocktail will be created by the Parador de Turismo.
Source: comunitatvalenciana.com
For a few days this point of the Alicante coastline will become the focal point for local gastronomy. For the first time, there will be live music, several ambiences and a raffle for a Mediterranean cruise.
Over the five days you can stroll around the marquee and buy "tasting vouchers" for 15 Euros. They allow you to try up to four different dishes and a cocktail, along with Denomination of Origin wines, desserts, coffee, etc.
This year, the Xàbia Restaurant Owner's Association has decided to dedicate one of the days to the pinchos (snacks) that play such an important role in restaurants along the Costa Blanca.
The 4th Jornadas Gastronómicas will be inaugurated by chefs from the Gota de Mar, La Rústica, Mezquida and Restaurante Sur. The cocktail will be prepared by the barman from the La Esquina bar.
On Thursday 22nd, the dishes will be prepared by the Calima, Club Náutico & Torremar, La Fontana and Trencall restaurants, while the cocktail will be created by the Parador de Turismo.
Source: comunitatvalenciana.com
Friday, 16 May 2008
The British are coming
Benidorm hotels are guaranteed a massive influx of British holidaymakers this summer. It seems that the terrible weather in Britain last summer kick-started an avalanche of advance bookings last September and October for some sure fire Benidorm sunshine.
Around 72% of overnight stays in Alicante province will be made by British travellers and unlike other lightweight nationalities who bring their own sandwiches, the Brits will spend, spend, spend while they are here.
A survey has revealed that despite higher costs of mortgages, petrol, food and transport the British will not be compromising on their one and only sunshine trip.
See you soon everybody.
Source: Benidorm Spotlight News
Around 72% of overnight stays in Alicante province will be made by British travellers and unlike other lightweight nationalities who bring their own sandwiches, the Brits will spend, spend, spend while they are here.
A survey has revealed that despite higher costs of mortgages, petrol, food and transport the British will not be compromising on their one and only sunshine trip.
See you soon everybody.
Source: Benidorm Spotlight News
Wireless in Benidorm
Laptop users in Benidorm will benefit from the council's new WiFi zone from this saturday onwards. The whole town hall square - La plaza de Sus Majestades los Reyes de España - will be covered in invisible wireless signals which will enable us to connect to the Internet for free.
It's the brainchild of the Council for New Technologies and will enable you to keep up to date with what's happening in the outside world or to read your e-mails.
The WiFi will have an anti-virus system and good news for parents, it also has a filter for violent or pornographic material so the kids can't play Manhunt 2.
Happy surfing Internauts.
Source: Benidorm Spotlight News
It's the brainchild of the Council for New Technologies and will enable you to keep up to date with what's happening in the outside world or to read your e-mails.
The WiFi will have an anti-virus system and good news for parents, it also has a filter for violent or pornographic material so the kids can't play Manhunt 2.
Happy surfing Internauts.
Source: Benidorm Spotlight News
Please... to the Airport???
With so many people now travelling independently and making their own way to and from the airport by hire car the Hotel Owners Association of Benidorm have noticed the poor road signs to the airport.
The Hoteliers have called on the Government to help travellers out by sticking up a few signs for the Airport on the motorway. Even more revolutionary, they also want some signs around Benidorm to give an indication which direction to take to get to the motorway for the airport.
Source: Benidorm Spotlight / Ona Sol Hotels
The Hoteliers have called on the Government to help travellers out by sticking up a few signs for the Airport on the motorway. Even more revolutionary, they also want some signs around Benidorm to give an indication which direction to take to get to the motorway for the airport.
Source: Benidorm Spotlight / Ona Sol Hotels
Monday, 12 May 2008
The Mediatic Festival in La Nucia
The Camilo Cano sports centre in La Nucia is the setting for the Mediatic Festival on 16th - 17th May. The festival is now in its seventh year and has consolidated its position as one of the major Spanish musical events.
Starting at 7pm. on Friday and Saturday, there will be a vigorous succession of performances until 4.30am. No less than 22 performances on Friday and 24 on Saturday, with top acts that include La Fuga, Fangoria, Los Delinquentes, The Waterboys, Loquillo, Hombres G, Celtas Cortos and Siniestro Total.
In addition, from midnight on Saturday the Mediatic Festival will be organising Musica en la Calle (Music in the Street) in premises especially prepared for the festival, with cheap food and drink for all.
The Mediatic Festival is a renowned musical event, as it received the Premio a la Difusion de la Musica (Music Promotion Award) at the VIII Edicion de los Premios de la Musica (8th Annual Music Awards) in 2004 for its defence of and firm commitment to Spanish artist and groups.
Source: Comunitatvalenciana.com
Monday, 5 May 2008
Onasol News Opening
In this blog we'll try to collect interesting news for you, news form our hotels, from Benidorm, Denia and the Costa Blanca, especially those news who might be interesting for you, like news from typical fiestas, music, theather, sports, in fact all cultural events you could go in the Marina Baixa and Marina Alta.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)