Gibraltar is your alternative gateway to the Costa del Sol. With its refurbished international airport, "The Rock" is a fascinating place to visit.
Take the cable car to the top of the Rock of Gibraltar, and whilst there see the famous Barbary Apes and view the two continents of Africa and Europe across the straights.
Take in the underground caves and absorbing history. Gibraltar, on your doorstep, boasts extensive offshore banking facilities as well as being a duty free, and wildlife packed port. Here the conventional English stores can be found- Marks & Spencer and Safeway are popular stops- especially as they are less that an hour's drive away from Marbella.