Malaga is the second most populous and sixth largest city in Spain. It is one of the cities in the European Union that experiences the warmest winters, having a Mediterranean-subtropical climate, with an average temperature of 16.6 degrees Celsius (62 degrees Fahrenheit) at the highest and 12 degrees Celsius (54 degrees Fahrenheit) during January. The city is rich in history and culture, with historical sites tracing back Phoenician, Roman, Arabian and Christian epochs, the beautiful sights here are endless. A day or two wouldn’t be enough to appreciate what this lovely city has in store for you.

The name Malaga was coined by Phoenicians who founded the city in 1000 BCE. The term was believed to be derived from the Phoenician word for salt because fish was salted near its harbors. The architecture in this city is perhaps a visual wonder, with Roman theater ruins dating from the 1^st century BC, touring around Malaga is a travel back in time. The walls built in and around the city are traces of military fortifications during the time of Islamic Spain. Some of the must-see places to see are the Gibralfaro Castle, Alcazaba fortress, Plaza de Toros (bullring), Iglesia del Sagrario and countless museums including Museo Picasso Malaga. Pablo Picasso and Antonio Banderas were born in Malaga.

Transportation is not a problem here as Malaga has its own airport. The seaport of Malaga has been in operation since 600 BC. High speed railway system connecting to Madrid and other railway systems around the city will get you here in no time. Buses are the main means of transport in the city. To get the best experience around Malaga, why not go for a home exchange? There are a lot of homes open for swap around the city. You can start to try living like a local and experience the warm, sunny winter here. This is definitely a good place to spend the Holidays in.

An old friend and I met and caught up with each other over a cup of coffee. As we talked about our good old days of traveling in groups, she was saddened by the fact that she can’t go anywhere far from home because of her kid. So I said, “Then why not bring your daughter along with you when you plan to go on a trip again?” Who says having kids would tie you down and prevent you from going places?

Bringing kids with you on trips might even be a good idea. Of course, it’s pretty tough taking care of them when you are away form home, but it would also be a rewarding experience for you and your kids. It is a real learning experience for them to be exposed to a new environment and different cultures and lifestyles. Seeing that the world isn’t just limited to the neighborhood they are in, kids can easily adapt to new environment when they grow older. Adjusting becomes easier. Traveling and going places is a learning experience apart from school. A good idea to make the most of your trip is to take them to museums or galleries to know more about the place you are in. That would be History 101 for your little kid! Another good idea is to take them on a short hike around the countryside or bike around the city. The discoveries are endless. Kids will never forget that experience and will take these memories with them until they grow old. These are inexpensive activities, but the reward for spending quality and quantity for them is priceless.

Traveling with kids or even as a family isn’t expensive; there are family packages that you could avail. And of course, home exchange is a good idea to cut back on accommodations. Look for a home exchange that could accommodate the size of your family and wouldn’t mind if you would have kids with you during your stay. You and your home exchange partner can talk about any concerns with kids staying, but surely they wouldn’t mind. Treat your kids to a new experience. Enjoy!