The Costa Blanca holiday resort of Javea (Xabia) is situated about half-way between Alicante and Valencia. The town is dominated by the mountain of Montgo which, according to a local legend, is actually an elephant that has been turned to stone. Although Javea attracts many tourists, especially during July and August, it has managed to avoid the high-rise development seen in other Costa Blanca resorts such as Benidorm. One of the Javea's biggest attractions is its fairly small but lovely beach of golden sand. Tourists are also attracted to the town because of its excellent local diving and natural scenery.
Javea consists of three main parts which are spread out over a large area; the old town (Javea Pueblo), the port (Javea Puerto) and the beach area (Playa de Arenal). Javea Pueblo is an attractive town of narrow streets and whitewashed buildings, making this a lovely area for a relaxing stroll. Attractions in Javea Pueblo include the Gothic-style church of San Bartolome, which dates back to the mid-thirteenth century, and the busy food market selling local produce such as fruit, vegetables and fish. The old town is also home to traditional Spanish bars offering very reasonably-priced tapas.
Javea Puerto is still very much a working port, with the local fishing boats moored alongside luxury yachts. The bars and restaurants which line the marina's promenade attract many visitors, and the views back towards the bay are stunning. Boat trips around the Cabo de San Antonio and to the neighbouring resort of Denia are available from the port during the high season.
Most visitors to Javea head for the Playa de Arenal with its 300-metre long stretch of fine golden sand. Although the beach may be relatively small, it's very well maintained and there are plenty of facilities such as volleyball nets and play areas for children. Overlooking the beach is a wide promenade packed with a variety of cafes, bars and restaurants. Although some of these can be quite expensive, there are cheaper establishments set further back from the beach which are popular with the town's thriving expat community. Playa de Arenal can get very busy at night time during the summer months, especially with younger visitors, yet it remains reasonably quiet the remainder of the year.
Scuba diving is a popular activity in Javea due to the clear sea water, and there are several companies offering lessons and diving excursions. There are also some excellent trekking routes in the area - ask in the local tourist information office for a trekking guide. Javea has more than its fair share of fiestas, including the Moors and Christians festival in mid-July, which is marked by colourful processions through the town. The Fogueres de Sant Joan, in mid-June, culminates in the setting on fire of large papier mache effigies, while the town's most unusual celebration, which takes place in the port during September, involves local youths trying to trick bulls into the sea.
There are buses from Javea to Alicante, Valencia and Denia and regular local services between Arenal beach, Javea Puerto and Javea Pueblo.
Moi International Airport, Mombasa. The airport is about 10 minutes from the city center. Allow an extra half an hour for your journey to the south coast because of the ferry crossing.
Visas. Most visitors to Kenya require a visa. Multiple and single entry visas are available. Applications can be made at any Kenya High Commissioner or Embassy prior to traveling. The single entry visa (obtainable upon arrival) is US$50 (correct at time of printing) or the equivalent in local currency.
Lost luggage. Visit the lost luggage desk in the baggage hall before going through customs.
GETTING AROUND
Self ? drive. Most international car hire companies operate in Kenya (with offices at the airport). Vehicles travel on the left ? hand side of the road and most cars are right ? hand drive. A current driving license with photograph is accepted for up to a three month's stay.
Public transport. City buses operate at reasonable low rates. Fares are paid to the conductor. Matatus ? private minibuses ? are abundant but usually overcrowded.
KEEPING IN TOUCH
Post office. Open 8am ? 5 pm weekdays, 9am ? 12 pm on Saturdays.
Telephone services. Public pay phones (card and coin) are automated. Phone cards may be bought from post offices or international call offices. International calls can be dialed direct (code 000) or operator assisted. (dial 0195/6)
Mobile phones. Use either safaricom or celtel. All major urban areas and many coastal regions have reception. Pay As You Go SIM cards are readily available.
Internet. Internet cafes are increasingly common. Emails can also be sent from most hotels, as can faxes and telexes.
MONEY MATTERS
Currency. Kenya currency shilling (ksh.) currently around Kshs. 72.45 per US$.
Currency regulations. There are no restrictions on the movement of currency into or out of Kenya for currency transactions.
Banking. Foreign currency can be changed at banks, foreign currency bureaux or hotels. Banks are open from 9 am to 3 pm Monday to Friday and 9 am ? 11 am on the first and last Saturday of each month. Bank in coastal towns open and close half an hour earlier. Some airport banks stay open 24/7.
ATM. 24 hours access to your account can be found at most ATMs countrywide. Most accept international VISA cards.
Credit Cards. All major international cards are accepted.
Travellers cheques. TCs are accepted at most banks bureaux and hotels.
Hotel Bill Payment. This can usually be paid in shillings or convertible foreign currency.
YOUR WELL BEING
Emergency services. 911
Hospital. Nairobi and Mombasa have good hospitals offering a causally services.
Medical expenses. Even with insurance cover, consultations and treatment will have to be paid for and the cost claimed back later.
GENERAL
Voltage. All regions in Kenya are supplied with 240 volts AC. The plug in use throughout Kenya is of the three square ? pin, 13 amp type.
Security. It is a sensible precaution not to walk alone in isolated towns or beach areas. Particularly after dark. Use common sense to prevent opportunistic theft.
Tipping. Tipping is appreciated. Most hotels and restaurants include a 10% service charge.
Water. The water in most city hotels is usually safe for drinking. However, if in doubt, bottled water is available. Most safari lodges provide filtered water. Water is precious; your help in using it sparingly is appreciated.
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