For a relaxing break in the sun any time of the year, I look no further than the charming province of Almeria. Although the capital city itself is adorned with an array of architectural attractions and historic highlights, I find it best to base myself in either the modern town of Roquetas de Mar or slightly further afield in the family friendly resort of Mojacar. Either way, it's no more than an hour's drive from Almeria.

I love Roquetas de Mar as there's plenty to do as a change from sitting in the sun or strolling along Playa Serena promenade, like the nearby waterpark or the huge shopping centre for some serious retail therapy. However, I do particularly enjoy basking in the sun during off-peak months when the beaches are so peaceful and sometimes nearly deserted. The town boasts three blue flag beaches and it's clear to see why - they are spotless!

For me, part of being on holiday is sampling the local cuisine and whilst Roquetas de Mar has plenty of hotels, bars and restaurants appealing to international tastes, I prefer to hunt down the hidden gems offering the best in mouth-watering Andalucian fried fish and lobster.

In contrast, the pretty whitewashed village of Mojacar is perched on top of a hill overlooking the resort area, and has a really authentic Spanish laid back feel to it. I love spending time simply wandering through the narrow streets and gorging on tapas in the local bars and restaurants!

The resort itself is less commercialised than many of the Spanish resorts I've travelled to which I think makes it one of Spain's best kept secrets. It is one long stretch of clean beach and if like me, you love the whole bohemian feel, you can't go wrong with the mixture of bars that play host to local singers and bands performing live both day and night. These bars are actually situated on the beach itself, so make a great place to go to for a chill-out drink or decent meal after a bit of swimming and sunbathing.