It Never Rains in the South of Spain and other Myths

Are you thinking of visiting the South of Spain this year? How about a tour of some pretty Andalusian villages or a swanky stay in Marbella?

Before you finalise your plans, we wanted to clear up a few common misconceptions about this most charming part of Europe. Here are 17 myths about The South of Spain, all entirely busted by the Swish team!

1. The South of Spain is Nothing but a Hot, Dry Desert

Not true. Cadiz is the province of Spain with the most rainfall per annum. Fear not though, as there is still plenty of sunshine. In fact, please read our guide to the weather in Marbella here.

2. Everyone in the South of Spain speaks Spanish

This is also not true. There are many ex-pats living on The Costa Del Sol whose first language is not Spanish and who communicate in English.

3. The Only Thing to do in the South of Spain is Lie on the Beach All-Day

We don’t even want to dignify this one with an answer. Spain is more than just its beaches, with lovely museums and architecture, culture, vineyards and mountains. And we do have some rather fabulous stretches of coastline too.

4. It’s too Dangerous to Travel to the South of Spain

This is so not true! The South of Spain is a welcoming and friendly place with a low crime rate. In fact, according to viahero, Spain ranks in the top ten per cent of the world’s safest countries.

5. All the Locals are Rude and Unfriendly

Spanish people are generally very open and welcoming, especially to tourists. Don’t believe us? Come and visit, and you’ll see for yourself.

6. The Food in the South of Spain is Bland and Uninspiring

Another myth, not a fact. Spain has plenty of flavours. You will see this richness in the cuisine and the countryside. You’ll be able to sample various dishes in the south of Spain, from paella made with saffron to more ‘picante’ hot dishes.

7. It never Rains, and there is no Greenery in the South of Spain

Not true. See above (number one, in fact!)

8. Everything is Open too Late in Southern Spain

This is subjective. At Swish, we recognise that in general, things do open later in Spain than in some other countries. But we disagree that things open ‘too late.’ In the tourist areas such as Marbella, many restaurants are open for dinner from as early as 6 p.m.

9. The Spanish Lifestyle is Unhealthy

Says who??
The Spanish lifestyle is known to be healthy, with a combination of the Mediterranean diet, plenty of family time to lower stress, red wine and sunshine in moderation.

10. The Only Industry is Tourism

Another myth, in fact, the South of Spain is a great producer of fruit, vegetables and olives. Spain produces 5,276,899 metric tons of olives annually and about 75% of the total olive production is concentrated around the Andalusian region. (Source: Worldatlass.)

11. The South of Spain is Mostly Flat

Take a look outside if you’re staying in Marbella and you might be lucky enough to see La Concha. You’ll agree, it’s definitely not flat!
There are many mountains in The South of Spain, and the highest is The Sierra Nevada mountain range, rising over 10,000 feet.

12. The South of Spain is Behind in Protecting the Environment Compared to other Areas in Europe

That is not true! Being eco-friendly is definitely ‘en vogue’ in the hottest part of Spain. There are many initiatives to promote renewable energy. For instance, the province of Cadiz has several wind farms. (For Swish guests, look for our green symbol to see our which of our properties are powered by renewable energy.)

13. The South of Spain is devoutly Catholic and other Religions are not Welcome

Actually, Spain is a non-demoninational state which means each citizen can choose whichever religion they prefer (or none.) Spanish society is extremely open to multiple faiths. In Marbella alone, there are synagogues, mosques and Catholic churches.

14. Gibraltar is Part of The South of Spain

Controversial! While some people in Spain would lay a claim to the rock, it officially has British rule and is separated from the Spanish peninsular by a small isthmus.

15. You Don’t Need a Coat to Visit Southern Spain

Our myth busting answer is that while you may not always need outerwear, it’s equally likely that you might do! Some parts of the South of Spain get colder, especially mountainous areas like Granada. So, don’t forget your coat!