Traveling with family including grand kids 12, 10, & 7 in August, so daughter can see her birthplace (Rota). Loved Spain 45 years ago, but have no current information. What do you recommend for the kids to see & do? Are there any actual tours in the area? Can a person visit the base if NOT currently in the military or retired military? Need Hotel recommendations, and name of a places for fantastic tapas in Rota, Puerto de Santa Maria, and the same for Cadiz, and Jerez. Does any one know if the Fuentebravia Hotel is still open where most officers stayed as they looked for housing. Any recommendations for day trips...Rhonda? Would two or three days in Rota be enough? More than enough? How is train travel now? Do you recommend renting a car? I would love any information. Thanks Jan

You might want to consult the <i>Michelin Green Guide</i>. Enjoy!

I always recommend renting a car - you get more freedom plus it's way cheaper with 5 people. Be sure to get one with enough luggage space in the trunk. You don't want any baggage showing. Two or three days should be enough time there. The kids will love the fabulous beach. Who knows if you can get on base what with what's going on in the world today. Try anyway. there should be tours available out of Rota but sounds like you remember the area well enough. I think Ronda is too far for a daytrip. Perhaps you could spend the night ? What's going to really surprise you after 45 yrs are the splendid roads today. You guys are all going to have a womderful trip !

When was the last time you where in Rota? Things have changed somewhat in 45 years or so.

It has been 45 years since I was in Rota. Please tell me about the changes you are aware of, and any suggestions you have for our trip.

Besides the excellent highway system, the rail connection between Sevilla and El Puerto de Santa María is fast, about 1hr 15min, leaving Rota a quick taxi ride away.

Cádiz has a good selection of restaurants, including El Faro (www.elfarodecadiz.com), El Faro del Puerto (www.elfarodelpuerto.com), Balandro (www.restaurantebalandro.com), El Campero (www.restauranteelcampero.es), Aponiente (www.aponiente.com), the Parador plus a few tapas bars like La Candela, Casa Lazo, La Tabernita, La Perola and a few dozen others.

I'n not familiar with the Fuentebravia Hotel, but you can check booking.com for hotels in the area you might be interested in. The Parador de Cádiz (www.parador.es/en/paradores/parador-de-cadiz) would be a good choice.