Due to the large number of foreigners, mainly European, who own property in the province of Málaga, tourism in this area has hardly been affected by the recent tragic events in the United States and the resulting international conflict. On the contrary Airlines operating into Málaga from various cities in Europe have recorded an increase in sales during this period.Recent statistics, provided by the Coast's tourist board, suggest that between 350,000 and 400,000 people live outside Spain and own properties in this area where they spend less than six months every year, qualifying for the category "residential tourists". While the tourism industry all over the world is aquiver with the thought of the potential negative consequences of the international conflict, the Costa del Sol looks to residential tourism as its guarantee of stability.

Miguel Sanchez, the president of the local hoteliers' association (Aehcos), stated that so far there have been no cancellations of package deals that have already been booked. "Holidays have become a necessity for millions of people in Europe, and so we believe everything will continue as normal".In spite of the tremendous increase in prices in the last three years the real estate market on the Costa del Sol is growing. The average price of property per square metre has risen by over 50% during this period. Despite some forecasts, the market does not seem to have peaked. The number of new building schemes has risen by around 3.5% in 2008 compared with the same period in 2007. With the growing importance of the residential tourism market (resident foreigners) on the coast, and a constant rise in the price of apartments and villas, there seems to be no downturn in the growth.

Growing numbers of residential tourists: - According to the latest forecast from FEDUR (Federacion Andaluza de Urbanizadores y Turismo Residential) it is estimated that 800,000 European families will buy a home here over the next 5 years, whilst other analysts are predicting as many as 2 million. Furthermore, a market study conducted by the AMS group has this to say, that the number of residential tourism homes in Spain has doubled in recent years to more than 3 million, of which foreigners own 1.1 million.

Of these, 70% are located in Andalucia and Valencia, principally on the Costa del Sol. Currently, 65,000 homes are on sale along Spain's coastlines.

Confidence in the Costa del Sol is assured as banks and financial institutions continue to purchase and develop considerable amounts of land. Fixed rate mortgages on offer, at low rates, can only be good news for potential buyers. Property developers are constantly on the look out for land to develop for their new projects. With the new Costa del Sol motorway fundamentally improving accessibility, more and more foreign investors want a piece of the action. Numerous international hotel and holiday groups are constructing projects here. In order to accommodate ocean going cruise liners, which currently are docking in Málaga or Gibraltar. Many new non-membership golf courses are under construction, permitting visitors to "Pay and Play". Confidence in the market is evident all round!

The Costa del Sol - a golfer's paradise: - During the summer months, particularly July and August, the coast does get overloaded with tourists, and rightfully so as people want to see for themselves, what everybody is talking about, nonetheless, in November / December 2007, hotels averaged an occupancy of 85%! Most certainly, golf is the big attraction in the winter months, with many golfers choosing to enjoy the mild and sunny weather conditions. Another factor contributing to the growth in residential tourism. Did you know that, on average, this coast has over 300 days of sunshine per year?

Costa del Sol - the California of Europe: - Literally, Costa del Sol means the Coast of the Sun. It is hardly surprising that it is now being named the California of Europe. When looking for sound investment or just somewhere nice to live, there really is no other location that can compare. Don't take our word for it however, come and see for yourself - we promise you won't be disappointed! We not only have the cleanest beaches, but also the complete infrastructure and facilities for resident communities.