Saturday night at the beginning of September· It’s not late, but there is a 1am curfew in place, so people are out early.
Half past ten and people are already in good spirits. There is a party atmosphere, and despite some places being quiet, others are full and rocking.
August has only just finished, so it’s a hot and sweaty night, but it isn’t stifling, and it’s getting cooler as the night progresses. The open breezy terraces are popular with clubbers and drinkers, with plenty of folks milling about, enjoying the music and the great atmosphere.
There seem to be plenty of ‘foreign’ tourists about – mostly Brits, despite the extra costs and difficulties of traveling here, still in place thanks to Covid. Thankfully masks are no longer obligatory here outside, or in the bars and clubs – and few masks are seen here on an evening – although some people still do choose to wear them.
The ‘seats’ round the palm trees have disappeared – but have been replaces with some white box like seats, that look easier to clean than the old ones, and fairly vandal proof. Time will tell how well they stand up to wear and tear!
It’s definitely not as busy as a Saturday night down the square in Benidorm on a warm September evening, generally is, but there is a great atmosphere, and plenty of fun to be had.
All in all, it was a vibrant evening in Benidorm – almost like old times.
Just a few blocks down the road, Calle Gerona is buzzing too – although a completely different atmosphere – Its Restaurants and diners here – with several small bars, some playing music, where you can get a drink before, or after your meal!
The street is mostly full, and although there are some British tourists here, there are more Spanish, as well as Dutch, Belgians… The French, Italians and Portuguese have mostly left, now that August has finished.
Music fills the air, though very different from the square, it is mostly old disco music – there was a mariachi band playing just before I started recording, but they are just finishing as I start wandering along – Though you can still spot one of the guys, on the left, dressed as a Mexican!
Apart from the quite loud bar, playing a rendition of Showaddywaddy’s ‘Three steps to heaven’, there is, for the most part only the very relaxed sound of tourist terrace chatter, which gives a great laid back, easy going, and very pleasant atmosphere to the street.
It’s a nice street to eat in, to drink in, and to relax in – There may be no discos here – but for families or couples, this is an ideal street to pas away some very pleasant evenings.
Just another Saturday in summer in Benidorm!
