It was supposed to be a bumper year for US tourism, a return to pre-pandemic levels, with an estimated 77 million foreign visitors enjoying the sights on offer. But not any longer. Since President Donald Trump’s global trade war and threats to colonise Canada, America’s attraction appears to be fading fast for tourists.
Once-iconic destinations such as the Grand Canyon, Las Vegas and Southern California are now drawing fewer international travellers, as political opinions overshadow the American holiday dream. According to figures from the US International Trade Administration, the number of Brits heading to the US dropped by 14% last month compared with the same period last year. For some populations from parts of western Europe that figure is even higher – 29% for Germans and 43% for tourists from Luxembourg. What’s more, there are signs of even steeper declines on the horizon, as the summer travel season approaches.
Consequently, many holidaymakers are rethinking their travel plans and seeking alternative destinations that offer the same magic without the controversy – so, if you’re one of them, ditch Southern California’s iconic coastline for this stunning Spanish seaside city, some 5,822 miles away.
Across the pond in Southern California, Laguna Beach is renowned for its coves, while Santa Monica State Beach is known for its pier and amusement park.
Spain’s Costa del Sol and its beautiful seaside towns are an excellent match for SoCal. In fact, the area is often referred to as the “California of Europe”, according to Sean Woolley, Managing Director at property website Cloud Nine Spain.
“Marbella and the Costa del Sol also share the same weather and glamorous lifestyle but boast a safer, more cosmopolitan environment.”
The likenesses are most evident in the region’s architecture and culture, including its parades and rodeos. The Marbella Fair, for example, takes place each June and includes a procession honouring the patron saint, San Bernabé.
Both regions enjoy a balmy climate, with dry warm summers and plenty of sun. In fact, Marbella boasts around 320 days of sunshine annually.
The beaches, shopping and stunning landscapes are also impressively similar to California – surrounded by hills and mountains, offering scenic views and opportunities for outdoor activities. While Southern California has its iconic Hollywood Hills, Marbella is backed by the Sierra Blanca mountains, offering day outs for hiking, rock climbing, canyoning and even skiing in the colder months.
Marbella also offers Southern California’s opportunities for upscale shopping, fine dining and luxury hotels. In fact, Sierra Blanca, has been dubbed the “Beverly Hills of Spain”, a luxurious gated community home to the city’s elite.
Most importantly for Brits, the flight time for Marbella is more than eight hours shorter than to Southern California.
Direct flights from London to Malaga Airport (AGP) run frequently and are around two-and-a-half hours. Return flights with Wizz Air from Gatwick start from £84 in May. From Malaga, it’s a 40-minute drive to Marbella. A direct bus service is also available.