INFOPAGES

art and shopping

Handicrafts have long been a tradition along the Costa Blanca. Techniques and methods are passed on from father to son for generations. A number of smaller shops and specialised stores sell beautiful and unique precious objects that are very typical of this area. The region of Valencia is famous for its pottery, each place having a distinctive style in. Ceramics and porcelain (Lladro) are of first class quality. The craft of basket weaving can be found everywhere, and one will often find individual items made out of wicker or palm branches, esparto grass and reed. Glass art and cut crystal have a long tradition throughout the Costa Blanca. Clothing is often made with typical local motifs. Nothing can be more desirable on a hot summer day than a hand painted fan to produce a cooling breeze and you will find one sold on almost every corner.

Long main streets invite one to go shopping in every season. There are large shopping centres in addition to the smaller shops. The traditional markets are a very special attraction for tourists and fill the streets with life along the Costa Blanca.

The toy factories in the region are among the most important in Europe. They export their products everywhere in the world and have a high international prestige and importance. Shoe and leather manufacturing succeeds very well against the hard international competition of other manufacturers. Other important industries are textile, carpet, and marble and are typical of the area.

In the summer the shops will usually be open each day from 9am to 1pm and 4.30pm to 8pm although these times will show some variation. Locals and tourists both need a siesta in the afternoon heat. There is an increasing interest in owning real estate for pleasure and investment, especially for people who are retired, but also for younger people. Thus we find that there are many garden centres on the Costa Blanca, supplying those plants that thrive in the "Mediterannean style" garden.

A considerable amount of salt is still produced in the Salines around Torrevieja. Bathing in the salt lakes combined with the clean air is very invigorating, and many salt lakes are operated as pools for medical use in the area. They are recommended all over the world because of their healing effect on the human body. They help people suffering with heart problems, rheumatism or breathing problems and asthma.

Production of wine has gained a great deal of importance in the area over recent years. It is achieving a strategic foothold into european and international markets and many wines produced in the Costa Blanca area have won national and international prizes because of their high quality. This is as a result of the warm Mediterranean climate, wine expertise, and the use of modern technologies. Many bodegas offer free sampling of local wines.