Our fast-paced modern lifestyle rarely allows us to take a break, catch our breath, and just look around. Frequently, we find ourselves rushing forward, until even those brief breaks known as 'vacations' are just long enough to begin to relax, before we are immediately pushed back into the constant bustle of work.

For someone who has been working their entire adult life, retirement can come as something of a shock. To suddenly have so much free time, with no work to fill it up... At first, you just want to relax. Take a break. Maybe do all those things you've always said you would do. Now you can start that book you always meant to write, learn to play the lute, catch up with old acquaintances. Whatever it is.

But in the end, it's just make-work. You are filling your days with effort, out of the habits forged from a life time of struggle. The best thing to do, is to move. Leave the city, the country, you have always known and travel somewhere a little different. Somewhere filled with beauty, both natural and man made. Somewhere you can relax in peace, a gentle evening after a long days work.

One of the best places for this is the Costa del Sol. Truly a center of the worlds art and culture, the sunny south coast of Spain, once unnoticed and forgettable, has taken central stage in recent years. The main reason for this, is the city of Malaga, which is rapidly becoming a more popular destination then even Paris. The city itself has had thousands of years to develop, and contains such wonders as the fort of Alcazabar.

Of course, you may not have an interest in historical splendor. In that case, don't worry, for there is plenty of modern delights to attract and engage you. For instance, take a look at the museum of Picasso. Now, you may not have an interest in Picasso per se, but you cannot deny his impact on modern art. And the museum of Picasso in Malaga is one of the greatest such museums in Europe. Besides this, you have a plethora of theatres to visit, and a wide selection of other entertainments such as classy restaurants, to choose from. And then, if you ever wish to escape this very modern world, you have only to glance outside the city. The scenery is incredible.

Mountain peaks brush the sky, wreathed in clouds, while a broad stretch of shining white sands marks the coast. Across a short stretch of water lies the mysterious continent of Africa, a presence that can just be seen in the distance, while between you lies beautifully clear water. Perfect for swimming, or just boating on. If you're not interested in these natural wonders, then you can take a look at some of the more man made displays, such as the bright sugar-cube villages that are scattered here and there, shimmering in the sun.

If you tire of the towns and cities, and want to do something a little more active, Costa del Sol is also host to 50 different golf courses, guaranteed to have perfect golfing weather throughout the year. The gentle climate assures you, that once a member of one of the exclusive golfing ranges you will always be able to play. Assuming, of course, you have not decided to spend the day somewhere else!

Even if you are not looking to retire right now, but just want a break from the routine, I can definitely recommend the Costa del Sol as an exceptional place to visit. So head on down, and the see newest cultural center of the world!