The motto of Marbella is 'A Way of Life' and, certainly, this luxurious resort seems to have it all and is, once again, rising to the fore as a favourite location with the rich and famous, as well as more ordinary folk who are willing to pay just a little bit extra for southern Spains' answer to St Tropez.

Marbella has a down to earth side to it as well; a characterful individuality which can be best appreciated by exploring the back streets in the old part of town. One of the prettiest places is the fabled 'Orange Square' which is located just off the main street in the older district and also home to the 16th century town hall.

In the same square you will find the helpful staff at the tourist office where you can pick up a detailed map and any additional information. The plaza is lined with stately buildings, small shops, art galleries, bars and bistros and is a hub of activity day and night.

Depending on the time of year, of course, the colours here are truly dramatic and vibrant with the trees and exotic tropical plants set against a backdrop of dazzling white buildings and a deep blue sky.

Be sure to explore the honeycomb of surrounding narrow streets where homes and shops intermingle to create the atmosphere of a small village, rather than a cosmopolitan town. There are numerous excellent restaurants to choose from, ranging from those specialising in the exclusive cordon bleu to the gritty individuality of a back street Spanish bar where the Serrano ham is gently cured by traditional smoking.

Back towards the coast is the La Alameda park where you can book your personal horse and carriage to travel in style or, if you prefer, stroll on towards the sea along the Avenida del Mar. This is arguably one of the most delightful promenades on the costa, flanked by classy restaurants and bars and mercifully free of concrete skyscrapers, glass bottom boat trips, imported shells, whether they be in Pathos, Cyprus or Portimao, Portugal.

From Guadalalmina to Cabopino, the Marbella coastline stretches along some 26 kilometres of sunny beaches bathed by the Mediterranean and where you can enjoy traditional fish and seafood favourites like sardines on a split, fried fish and the incomparable paella.

There are also two large parks in Marbella which provide some welcome shade to spend some time with a book. The amphitheatre at Constitution Park (once the garden of a private residence) is frequently used for concerts and plays in the summer.