Monday, April 30, 2012

How to Stay Safe While on Your Costa Dorada Break

By Catherine McCulloch


Literally translated to 'Gold coast,' the Catalonian Costa Dorada offers endless cheap holidays to get away from it all. Its 216 km of Spanish beaches are known for fine sand and warm, shallow waters perfect for sunbathing and swimming. While holidays in Costa Dorada are known for being family friendly, there's something for everyone too. Located just 50 miles south of Barcelona, some of Spain's best wines are grown and matured in the region, while for the explorers there's an abundance of medieval architecture and breathtaking mountainous scenery. Being in paradise, no matter if you're safely tucked into a resort or not, means there are still a few local dangers lurking. Here are a few tips to keep you, your friends and family safe while having a memorable holiday experience.

Hang on to your wallet - Pick-pocketing can be a common occurrence in Spain, especially at night. Barcelona and bigger cities tends attract more of this, but seaside resorts, restaurants and bars like those in Costa Dorada can also be prime targets. Keep an eye out for anyone who tries grabbing your arm or randomly talking to you on the street. Even resorts specializing in Costa Dorada breaks can have its thieves, so in public try keeping your bag under your arm and never leave your bag or jacket with wallet inside on the back of a chair.

Travel insurance - An easy one to overlook sometimes, especially if you live in the UK where healthcare is easily accessible. Just to be safe, look into minimum insurance to sleep easier at night, knowing if you did break your arm after a long night of dancing or your daughter ate some bad seafood you'd be covered.

Look for 'Blue Flag' Beaches - Home to over 500 different blue flag spots by the sea, Spain is known for their great beaches and Costa Dorada hosts a whopping 108 of these unspoiled beaches. The Foundation for Environmental Education only officially recognises those that are safe and clean and of course environmentally friendly, so it's always good to check before heading to the shores.

Under the sea - There are plenty of opportunities to get acquainted with the marine life while in the region, but remember that there are jelly fish lurking in the shallow waters. These critters can sting you, which although not serious, can be rather painful. If you or someone you're travelling with gets stung, don't panic there are lots of natural remedies to try first before heading to the hospital. Some of these homeopathic therapies include applying wine, vinegar, rubbing alcohol or human urine on the sting.




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