We will be headed to Marbella with our 2 children (10/13) beginning of April for 9 days and looking for ideas of day trips so we can make the most of our visit.

There is a lot going on for both you and the children. I would start my research at Visit Costa del Sol (www.visitcostadelsol.com).

Tail-less apes really - the only apes natural to Europe now. I drove over the mountains once from Marbella to Granada - bout two hours each way but seeing the Alhambra is well worth it and a good history lesson for kiddos.

But yes Gilbraltar is unique and weird and they speak English!

Actually, they are not native, and had died out, a few years ago, only to be replaced with other non-native species. But Gib is not part of Spain, still part of the UK. They would be gone if it where part of Andalucia.

Thanks for the feedback. I went on the website & also took out books from the library. Was thinking of trying Seville & Cordoba as well as Ronda & Gib. Also planning a guided tour from hotel to Tangier. It was my impression that Granada was a much longer trip.

Actually, I wouldn't waste the day visiting Tangier. It hardly represents Morocco.

If you do want to visit the Alhambra, you'll need to reserve your tickets in advance. The only ones available during the first 9 days of April are on 6th, 7th and 8th (afternoon tickets). Everything else is sold out.

http://www.alhambradegranada.org/en/...bratickets.asp