---
title: Helpful Tips
url: "https://paraisogolfretreat.com/tips"
locale: en
updated_at: 2026-09-14
generated_at: "2026-10-20T03:25:03.038Z"
---
# Helpful Tips

Make the most of your stay in El Paraíso, Benahavís with these local insights and practical tips for enjoying Costa del Sol like a local.

## Getting Around

### Car Rental Recommended

Having a car gives you the freedom to explore Costa del Sol at your own pace. Several rental companies operate in Marbella.

### Parking at the Property

Free street parking available. Usually plenty of parking spaces in the quiet neighborhood.

### Distance to Key Locations

Marbella center: 15 mins • Puerto Banús: 20 mins • Málaga Airport: 45 mins • Gibraltar: 45 mins

## Essential Info

### Check-in & Check-out

Check-in: 3:00 PM onwards • Check-out: 11:00 AM • Early check-in/late check-out available upon request.

### WiFi & Connectivity

High-speed WiFi (600Mbps) throughout the apartment. Perfect for remote work with dedicated workspace areas.

### Payment Methods

Most places accept credit cards. Cash is useful for small local shops and markets. ATMs available in Benahavís village.

## Shopping & Errands

### Local Supermarkets

Mercadona (5 mins) • Carrefour Express (7 mins) • El Corte Inglés (Marbella, 15 mins) for premium shopping.

### Fresh Markets

Benahavís village market (Fridays) • Marbella market (Mondays) • San Pedro market (Thursdays) for fresh produce.

### Pharmacy & Medical

Local pharmacy in Benahavís village (5 mins). Nearest hospital: Hospital Costa del Sol in Marbella (15 mins).

## Local Culture

### Spanish Dining Times

Lunch: 2-4 PM • Dinner: 9-11 PM • Many restaurants close 5-8 PM. Book dinner reservations in advance during peak season.

### Siesta Time

Small shops often close 2-5 PM for siesta. Plan shopping for mornings or early evenings. Supermarkets usually stay open.

### Language Tips

Basic Spanish appreciated: 'Hola' (hello), 'Gracias' (thank you), 'Por favor' (please). English widely spoken in tourist areas.

## FAQ

### Car Rental Recommended

Having a car gives you the freedom to explore Costa del Sol at your own pace. Several rental companies operate in Marbella.

### Parking at the Property

Free street parking available. Usually plenty of parking spaces in the quiet neighborhood.

### Distance to Key Locations

Marbella center: 15 mins • Puerto Banús: 20 mins • Málaga Airport: 45 mins • Gibraltar: 45 mins

### Check-in & Check-out

Check-in: 3:00 PM onwards • Check-out: 11:00 AM • Early check-in/late check-out available upon request.

### WiFi & Connectivity

High-speed WiFi (600Mbps) throughout the apartment. Perfect for remote work with dedicated workspace areas.

### Payment Methods

Most places accept credit cards. Cash is useful for small local shops and markets. ATMs available in Benahavís village.

### Local Supermarkets

Mercadona (5 mins) • Carrefour Express (7 mins) • El Corte Inglés (Marbella, 15 mins) for premium shopping.

### Fresh Markets

Benahavís village market (Fridays) • Marbella market (Mondays) • San Pedro market (Thursdays) for fresh produce.

### Pharmacy & Medical

Local pharmacy in Benahavís village (5 mins). Nearest hospital: Hospital Costa del Sol in Marbella (15 mins).

### Spanish Dining Times

Lunch: 2-4 PM • Dinner: 9-11 PM • Many restaurants close 5-8 PM. Book dinner reservations in advance during peak season.

### Siesta Time

Small shops often close 2-5 PM for siesta. Plan shopping for mornings or early evenings. Supermarkets usually stay open.

### Language Tips

Basic Spanish appreciated: 'Hola' (hello), 'Gracias' (thank you), 'Por favor' (please). English widely spoken in tourist areas.

### Emergency Services

112 Police, Fire, Ambulance

### Local Police

092 Benahavís Local Police

### Medical Emergency

061 Andalusian Health Service