Alicante š š - Flexible Stay with Friends
Trip Overview
- Dates: August 14-16, 2025 & August 17-18, 2025 (CEST)
- Accommodation: Staying with local friends
- Family: Craig, Emily, and Mia Lebowitz
- Approach: Flexible itinerary guided by local friendsā recommendations
Day 1 - August 14 (Arrival from Valencia)
Arrival & Meeting Friends
- Afternoon: Arrive via train from Valencia
- 3 p.m.: Arrive Alicante Terminal š š
- Evening: Meet with local friends and settle in
- Plans: To be determined by friendsā recommendations and suggestions
Day 2 - August 15 (Friendsā Day)
Full Day with Local Friends
- Morning: Friends will suggest activities based on their local knowledge
- Afternoon: Open to friendsā recommendations - could include beaches, local markets, or cultural sites
- Evening: Dining and socializing as suggested by hosts
- Note: Flexible schedule to accommodate friendsā plans and local insights
Day 3 - August 16 (Departure to Granada)
Morning & Departure
- Morning: Final time with friends in Alicante
- Midday: Friend pickup for drive to Granada
- Journey: Scenic drive through Andalusian countryside
- Duration: Approximately 2.5-3 hours
Day 4 - August 17 (Return from Granada)
Evening Return & Relaxation
- Evening: Return from Granada day trip
- Plans: Flexible evening based on energy levels and friendsā suggestions
- Options: Could include dining, beach time, or simple relaxation after Granada visit
Day 5 - August 18 (Departure to Madrid)
Morning Departure
- Morning: Final goodbye with friends
- Train Departure: Return to Madrid for final night and flight home
- Journey: High-speed train back to capital
Transportation Guide
Getting Around Alicante
- TRAM: Modern system connecting beaches and city center
- Bus: Municipal bus network
- Walking: City center very compact and walkable
- Bicycle: Beach promenade perfect for cycling
Key Routes
- City Center to San Juan Beach: TRAM Line 1 (20 minutes)
- Castle Access: Elevator from Postiguet Beach or walking path
- Airport: C-6 bus or taxi (20 minutes to city center)
Budget Considerations
Flexible Budget Approach
- Accommodation: Staying with friends (cost-effective)
- Meals: Will vary based on friendsā recommendations and shared activities
- Activities: To be determined by local friendsā suggestions
- Transport: Minimal local transport needs with friends as guides
- Estimated Daily Budget: ā¬50-100 per day for miscellaneous expenses and contributions
Possible Highlights (If Recommended by Friends)
Potential Local Favorites
- Santa BĆ”rbara Castle š š„ š: Historic fortress with panoramic views
- Explanada de EspaƱa š š: Famous palm-lined promenade
- Postiguet Beach š š„ š: Main city beach
- San Juan Beach š š„ š: Blue Flag beach
- Barrio Santa Cruz š: Historic old quarter
Note: All activities subject to friendsā recommendations and local insights
Practical Information
General Considerations
- August Weather: Very hot (85-95Ā°F), bring sun protection
- Accommodation: Staying with local friends provides authentic experience
- Language: Spanish primarily, Craigās fluency will be helpful
- Flexibility: Schedule completely adaptable to friendsā suggestions and availability
Family Approach
- Mia: Activities will depend on what friends recommend as suitable for an 8-year-old
- Cultural Exchange: Great opportunity for Mia to experience local Spanish life
- No Pressure: Relaxed approach allows for spontaneous adventures
Emergency Contacts & Useful Info
- Tourist Information: Plaza del Ayuntamiento š - +34 965 200 000
- Medical Emergency: 112
- Local Police: 092
- TRAM Information: +34 900 720 472
Enjoy Alicanteās perfect combination of historic charm, beautiful beaches, and authentic Costa Blanca culture!