Travel guide – altea
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Overview
Away from the madding crowds of Benidorm, the peaceful town of Altea offers plenty of amenities for those who prefer a less frenetic beach holiday, without the glitz, glamour and gusto. Of all the towns on the Costa Blanca, Altea is probably the one that remains the least exploited and overdeveloped, where daily life remains uninterrupted by tourists and huge hotels have yet to be built. Altea has a long jetty and attractive walkway fronting a calm stretch of shoreline with pebbly beaches encircling the town. The town’s central Plaza de la Iglesia leads onto narrow cobblestone streets and offers beautiful Mediterranean views.
Climate
The most popular time to visit the Costa Blanca is between May and October when the weather is guaranteed to be sunny and warm most of the time. The temperature can get up to 104°F (40°C) in August, with the sea at a very comfortable 77°F (25°C). It is too hot and crowded for some during this busy season and many visitors come out over the winter and spring months when it is cooler and risk the odd shower, but many of the bars, restaurants and attractions are closed over this period.
Health
There are no health risks associated with travel to Spain, and no vaccination certificates are required for entry. Spain has a reciprocal health agreement with most EU countries, including the UK, providing free emergency health care at State run hospitals. UK travellers should take a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). Note that private clinics are not covered, and the scheme gives no entitlement to medical repatriation costs, nor does it cover ongoing illnesses of a non-urgent nature, so comprehensive travel insurance is advised.
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