TFB - great tip on the cheap clothes. Thanks. According to my Scottish friend, it started snowing 25 Nov last year. I shall call it an adventure. I dont want to spoil it for DH by moaning about the cold, wet, grey etc. And hopefully it shall be warmer in Spain

Vic - thanks for the tips. I will look into them in more detail. We will book accommodation ahead of time.

Onyx - thanks for the feedback. I'm looking forward to the Alhambra. I'm fascinated by the history of the Moors in Spain. The art, science, medicine, literature. A great civilsation destroyed when overran by a bunch of unwashed fanatics. Very romantic

I shall find some Spanish lessons on itunes and learn something more than buenos dios. If only we had time and $$ to go to Italy as well...