Benidorm Spain Travel Guide
Serra Gelada Natural Park, a coastal mountain range bordering Benidorm, holds protected status. It harbors unique flora and fauna and dramatic cliff formations. Benidorm Island is a small, protected marine reserve.
Spain maintains a robust system for waste management and recycling. Familiarize yourself with the color-coded recycling bins for paper (blue), plastics/cans (yellow), glass (green), and general waste (grey).
The Valencia region experiences periodic droughts and faces water scarcity. Mindful water usage is prudent. Take shorter showers. Turn off taps when brushing teeth. Report any leaks to your accommodation. Participate in hotel towel reuse programs.
Respectful interaction with local customs deepens your Benidorm experience.
Support local artisans by seeking out and purchasing their products. The Old Town and markets offer many such opportunities. Embrace and support restaurants serving traditional Spanish and Valencian cuisine. This upholds culinary heritage. Donations to organizations like The Rainforest Site (GreaterGood) indirectly contribute to global conservation and cultural awareness.
Make an effort to learn a few basic Spanish phrases. Locals welcome the effort. Be polite and patient. A "please" (por favor) and "thank you" (gracias) make a difference. While less strict in Benidorm's main tourist areas, some smaller, traditional shops might still close for a midday break; respect this rhythm. Spaniards value personal interaction. Avoid rushing conversations or service.
Always seek permission before photographing individuals, especially children. Exercise discretion in public spaces. In religious sites, respect prohibitions or take photos quietly without flash. Avoid photographing private residences without permission.
Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees. Maintain a quiet demeanor; do not disrupt services. If you desire to light a candle or donate, use designated areas.
Beyond the resort's comfort, seek local Spanish culture. Explore the Old Town, municipal market, and traditional tapas. Attend local festivals for a local perspective.
Responsible travel bolsters local economies and assures fair distribution of benefits.
Benidorm is a mass-tourism destination. Direct community-based tourism initiatives, where tourism directly benefits local communities and their development projects, are less common than in rural, less developed areas. However, your choices as a traveler can still redirect economic benefits to local stakeholders.
Seek out shops selling genuinely local products, like traditional ceramics, local olive oil, regional wines, or authentic turrón. These items often come from small-scale producers, directly supporting their livelihoods and traditional methods. Avoid purchasing counterfeit goods. Such purchases harm legitimate businesses and support illegal activities.
Choose local tapas bars and family-run restaurants in the Old Town or residential areas over international chains. This channels money directly into the local economy. Buy groceries from the municipal market or small local shops. Purchase souvenirs from artisan workshops. If booking tours, prioritize local tour guides who have deep knowledge of the area and directly benefit from your patronage.
Taste authentic flavors at family-run eateries.
Find unique souvenirs and fresh produce in local markets.
Gain deep insights from those who truly know Benidorm.
Avoid attractions or activities that exploit animals. If you see mistreatment, support animal welfare organizations. If inclined to donate, choose reputable local charities over direct giving to beggars. Be vigilant for signs of human exploitation and report suspicious activities to local authorities.
Leave no trace. Pack out everything you pack in, especially on beaches and natural trails. Consider using eco-friendly products from stores like Package Free Shop. Look for accommodations with certifications such as those found on Ecobnb and ethically focused tour operators like G Adventures.
