Morning all! We hope you're well wherever you are across the world. This week we find ourselves back in Benidorm, that marmite location that everyone's got an opinion on - even when they've never been! After experiencing it again for a weekend, we've come to the conclusion it's a bit like fish & chips - it might not be good for you, but there is something tasty, satisfying and familiar about it every now and again. It's a comforting, indulgent treat. But it's definitely not for everyone. Let us know your thoughts if you've been, or if you'd like to, or if you can't think of anything worse 😂 Meanwhile, well, we're actually back in the UK now! Back to work over Christmas (booo), but there will be one more Spain video on the 29th, before another showing our journey home (which was a disaster to start with 🙈). Then you'll catch up with us in the New Year for some UK plans that involve thinking about our future… With that though, Merry Christmas to all of our subscribers! 🎄❤️ Thank you for supporting us these past couple of years, we love reading all your comments and advice each week. We hope you have a wonderful (or at least tolerable, because it's not for everyone) festive season if you can, and we hope you stick around for the last two videos of this trip. Then we'll see you in the new year 😁 P.S - we thought we ended the video, then remembered it was going out at Christmas, so the end isn't actually the end, there's an extra bit added on 🙃 Merry Christmas all, and thank you! 🥰🎄🥂
Steve looks so much younger without the beard. A really chilled out video in my favourite place in the world. A good video before the Christmas period. Hope you guys have a lovely Christmas. Have a well deserved rest.
Hi Paul, thank you, so you're a fan of Benidorm too? It's absolutely one of those don't knock it til you've tried it places, but you have to throw yourself into the spirit of things - I think we love it now in its own unique way ❤️ Oh no, all these comments about Steve's beard means I'll never see it again 😂😟 I was right to say a prayer for it 😉 But thank you, he'll be pleased to hear it. Merry Christmas to you, and hope you have a lovely time this festive season 🥰🎄🥂
Hi Maryann, thank you he'll love you saying that 🥰 And yay, another Benidorm fan! I feel we are quite converted now. There isn't anywhere else like it. Merry Christmas to you ❤️🎄
Glad you enjoyed it. Benidorm gets a bad press but there is much more than cheap booze and bars. Albir and Altea are beautiful and the beaches at Benidorm are really lovely. I just happen to be reading a book about the legacy of Franco and got to a section covering Benidorm. What I found fascinating was that everyone knew that it had wonderful beaches but it took the mayor in the 1950s to seize the potential and create a town. So if you take it as a planned town that is designed for tourism, it is much easier to comprehend. Everyone there knows what it is about and therefore buys into that. No-one is under any illusions about the town. The streets are wonderfully clean (and you see workers cleaning the streets which is something you don't often see in the UK), the beaches are kept spotless and police regularly patrol to keep everyone safe. It is a model of how to do tourism. The final point is that it is a monument to hard work. All the people there work hard at what they do and from what I can see enjoy doing it. They deserve all the success that they get.
Hi Stephen 😊 I couldn't agree more with what you're saying, and what's especially fascinating is how Benidorm grew from almost nothing to the size it is. I think it was once a small fishing village, but generally, it's built entirely from scratch. And in such quick time, relatively! You're looking at it in totally the right way, it's created especially for brief enjoyment, and as you say, it's looked after incredibly well, well policed and very tidy. In essence, it's much more enjoyable and better managed than going out on the town in most UK areas, and by and large, it feels safe. We love it now! Thank you for your thoughts, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you 🥰🎄🥂
Thank you Katty ❤️ We don't feel hard done by, we are so lucky and grateful to have seen what we did! More reason to come back one day 😁 Merry Christmas to you and Happy New Year! ❤️🎄🥂
Don't feel guilty for enjoying a little 'tapas, wine and beer'. You both deserve to let your hair down 😆 and revel in the spoils of Benidorm. Safe travels when heading north. I sincerely wish you chaps all the best for this season and for 2025. Sharon 💚
Aah thank you so much Sharon ❤️ We had a ball here, it's fun just to roll with the Benidorm way, and the tapas was fabulous 👌😍 Merry Christmas to you, all the best ❤️🥂🎄
When you said "see BENIDORM from a distance" we couldn't help but think "best way to see it"... Although BENIDORM in winter is actually so much better, but still.... BENIDORM! We are so not suited to the Benidorm life, too many people, all those tall buildings. Good on you for helping the cat, that made Alison happy. Tapas! Started as a way of showing available dishes to foreign sailers who didn't speak the language. They were shown small portions of each dish on the pots lid. Lid in Spanish is "tapa". Sorry, having to flex our Spanish knowledge just that we're in Greece and have no idea what we're doing, saying and sometimes eating... Much love Darren and Alison 🤟♥️
Haha well we absolutely don't blame you, and as much as we enjoyed ourselves, it's one of those places we were glad to leave and visit quieter locations afterwards. We could never live in a city, but it's nice to dip your toes in occasionally. I do find those tall buildings together oddly captivating even if they aren't appealing at all, if that makes sense. Spectacle is the word. I thought Alison would appreciate the cat love 😻 He/she came into the van at some point too. I suspect he/she (we never did check) had an owner or lived on the campsite at least so we weren't too concerned, but you do find yourself getting attached very quickly. A bigger van and we'd probably have pets like you. Now that is a good bit of tapas knowledge, I thank you! I suppose, in some ways, it's still the same purpose, as it gives you a small bite of larger dishes in many cases. By the the time you get used to Greek food and useful sayings, I expect you'll be on your way to another country, but the confusion is all part of the fun, right?! Have a great time, not jealous at all...nope...🙃🤪 Much love to you both ❤️ 🤟
Yes, it's three days until Christmas. I haven't put my tree up, and doubt I will this year. It's only a small one that I hang on the wall, with one flat side, to keep the cats from taking all the baubles. Only one cat now, as I buried one in the back garden yesterday. Thank heaven's her sister is healthy, at 12, and has a few more good years in her. Speaking of cats, like your little visitor, they often travel about and get fed by several people. I prefer indoor cats. What a lovely spot to vacation in. Even with Daisy's repairs, you're saving on air fare and hotels. :) I love the 'as it happens' videos. It's real life. Jon in rural BC, Canada
Hi Jon, sorry to hear about your cat 😟 The traumas of having pets we love that we frequently outlive. Sometimes we have to do what's right for them instead of seeing them suffer, if only we could do the same for people (small steps here towards that lately, but it's a pebble sized stepping stone in a vast sea..). I wonder if her sister notices her absence? She must do really, not that you can always tell with cats. Sensible about the hanging tree! We are suckers for feeding any animal that comes to us, we can't help it. We'd like some of our own again if we ever settle down. Glad you liked the video - yes, it was a good place to stay even if it's not our usual choice of location, and all the while we stay in a van we get to visit these places for a fraction of the price you'd spend on a "proper" holiday. So can't complain! Merry Christmas to you Jon, are you spending it with anyone this year? Admittedly Christmas isn't for everyone. But does seem like a good opportunity for a long distance game of D&D 😁 Thank you and take care 🎄🥰
@@comealongdear Oh, yes, she knows her sister is gone. She looked for her, in all her hidey holes, but now she's beginning to relax again. Game day is the 28 th. :) I will be going to another party on Christmas Eve, so I'll get enough turkey and company. I'm a bit of a hermit, so two parties of people will do me for awhile. I did buy a good book on Kindle, so I'll be set. Cheers and Merry Christmas to you two. :) Jon in rural BC, Canada
Well have fun, in many ways Christmas Eve is nicer (even as adults, when we've no reason to believe in any red-suited visitors). We are very hermit-like too so nothing wrong with that, as long as you're okay that's the main thing. Enjoy game night! Merry Christmas Jon 🎄🥂
Hi guys, it's a thumbs up for Steve's clean-shaven look from us! - It looks like you had great fun in Benidorm, we have no plans for February yet so might give it a go - we are Benidorm virgins so it could be fun! We have one more week in Cyprus so will be here for Christmas - wherever you two are, have the best time - Merry Christmas 🎄🧑🎄 🍷🍷xx
Hi guys, thank you, Steve will be happy 😁 Fun is the best way to describe Benidorm, look at it like that and enjoy it for what it is and you'll have a good time 😍 Be great to hear how you get on if you do go! Enjoy being in Cyprus at Christmas, how lovely is that. Merry Christmas to you both too, take care ❤️🎄🥂
Thank you Catarina 🥰 We had a great time there, not sure we necessarily expected to, but we definitely did! It's quite pretty in certain places too, not just bars! A Merry Christmas to you too, all the best ❤️🎄🥂
Love the new look without the beard - really makes you look younger. It’s been many decades since I was in Benidorm - not the place for me, I’m afraid I couldn’t cope with all the people and the noise in the bars. It seems like mini Britain. I wish you both a blessed and peaceful Christmas and a very happy New Year. Thank you for all your lovely videos - stay safe at work. ❤️❤️
Morning Irene! 🥰 Benidorm is definitely not for everyone and I don't think we'd ever want to spend a week there - there's no need, I feel you can see it in a day or two - but we do understand the attraction. We don't go out too often to noisy places, often because I'm uncomfortable (which isn't always present but comes and goes in waves) and Stephen dislikes it anyway, but sometimes the occasional urge draws us in, though being several drinks deep by that last bar undoubtedly gave us the necessary armour 😳🙈 It's the same with big cities, we generally hate them, London included, but sometimes it's nice to visit and then quickly run away at the end. In next week's video we go somewhere the total opposite, to balance it out 😉😁 Thank you Irene, I hope you're both well. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you too, and thank you for all your support. Take care 🥰🎄🥂
Bendidorm looks exactly the same as it ever did. It always amazes me how clean the beach looks despite the footfall. Good to see you both enjoy the wine and tapas. Cute little cat Fifi would have liked it alas she was still in bed ( our bed ) fast asleep. Glad you got your last bit of sun. Have a very Happy Christmas and fantastic travels in 2025. Susie ❤❤🥂🎅🎅
Morning Susie 🥰 Yes I can imagine Benidorm looking the same in 100 years now (if we're all still here 🙈🤪), it feels like it's "peaked" with what it needs to be. You're right it's very clean there, that beach is always amazing to see, and the town is very well kept too. We had great fun. Fifi would have been more than welcome to some tapas, but she'll have to get up and watch us next time 😂 Happy Christmas to you too Susie, hope you have a lovely time 🥰🥂🎄
@@comealongdear Thanks very much Dan, you and Stephen too. Fifi still in bed obviously not had her 18 hours yet! Yes it will be the same forever it's stood the test of time. A fun place. Until next time take care xx
Steve is much better without that beard. You look amazing with yours. We hope you have a very happy Christmas. Keep the adventures coming. All the best.Pj❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥
Aww thank you Paul, I appreciate that 🥰 I personally loved Stephen's beard, but the crowd have spoken 😂 I think he'll probably half grow it back, maybe not as wild. Merry Christmas to you too, hope you have a good one and see you on the next adventure 🥰🥂🎄
You look lovely and young Steve. Maybe the youngsters are sleeping in the daytime. The water is really lovely and clear, Spain is well looked after and kept clean. Enjoy the rest of your stay. X
Good Afternoon, thank you, he'll be delighted with these compliments 😍 He definitely looks younger (even if I miss the beard 😉). Yes I think it was siesta time and they all likely came out in the evening more. Benidorm was so clean though and it felt safe. Merry Christmas to you! ❤️🎄🙏
Have a cool Yule boys - after a stressful week you made me laugh out loud when describing the ‘branches’. I need to get my festive hat on and travel to London from Wales to see my two favourite children - the grands. Great video you remind me of George and Mildred as I and my partner do too. I’m not saying who is Yootha xx
😂😂😂 I'm sure I could guess, but I think we'd both be fighting to be Yootha 😂 Glad the video gave you a laugh, and I hope you have a good time in London - sometimes we do need to glue on our festive hats to get into the spirit as it is suddenly thrust upon us "Forced fun" as Stephen calls it 😂 But I do love Christmas, and I think he does deep down in there somewhere 😉 Thank You and Merry Christmas! ❤️🎄🥂
Aww thank you, we don't know what 2025 will bring but we do appreciate you following along, it means a lot to us 🙏❤️ Wishing you a very Merry Christmas 🥰🥂🎄
With or without the beard Steve you look good, thanks Dan for all the wonderful commentary about the reputation it's got, I've been to many parts of Spain but never into Benidorm and it certainly does look nice, although one or two of those establishments look a bit dodgy by night time maybe, but you two presented it very well and kept us informed and interested so sorry the trip back home was bad, but I do hope you both have a wonderful Christmas and new year
Hi Michael 🥰 Yes I don't mind Steve with or without beard, I do prefer with, but I think I'm in the minority there 😂 I'm glad you enjoyed the vlog, we tried to show Benidorm in an honest way and get across what it's really like, but also to try to throw ourselves into the spirit of things and enjoy it. It's definitely not for everyone, but I'm glad we went. Thank you Michael and Merry Christmas to you too, I hope you have good one whatever you're up to, and thank you for all your support we appreciate it 🥰🎄🥂
Good Morning Susan 😍 Lovely bit of multitasking there, we like to see it, especially when it involves us on two devices at once 😂 Thank you, and hope you enjoy the video on the big(ger) screen 😍 Merry Christmas to you! ❤️🎄
Very entertaining! I'm sure I've seen Dan before somewhere. I lived in Benidorm twice and if you'd have gone into the British quarter about 2 streets behind the end of the seafront (near McDonalds) you'd have seen the "debauchery" you were on about around Cafe B and that area. But it is realtively safe unless you're out drunk at 3am you might come into a bit of trouble, but it's limited. I've been in some right states on my own and never had any trouble. Merry Christmas!
Cheers Neil! Maybe I've just got one of "those" faces, not sure that's a good thing mind 😂🤔 Yes I think we sort of went through the British area, we ended up in The Black Chicken which was more British than any British pub back home to be honest 😆 Had a great time though! And yes it does feel safe even with the drunken revelry although like anywhere you no doubt have to be mindful, but it certainly feels safer than going out on the town here as a comparison. Bet it was fun to live there for a while! Thank you and Merry Christmas to you! ❤️🥂
I would like to wish you both a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, haven't commented for ages but always love following you on your travels, Benidorm looks good, a few beers and some lovely tapas, perfect, pity you weren't able to keep up with the fitness regime but sometimes it's good to have a little rest, at least your nose was running lol, anyway all the best and take care.
Hi Kenneth, thank you so much and great to hear from you 😊 Benidorm was such good fun, a great way to spend a weekend, but very much an "every now and again" kind of place 😂 The fitness has picked up a bit since, but yes apart from the nose, the beer and wine were running (flowing) too so that's something 😂 Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you too, all the best 🎄❤️🥂
@@comealongdear Well , after heavy rain , a yellow high wind warning and a calima where we were advised not to go out, yes !! Wish I had gone to Benidorm. Love the music you play too
Oh no! That's a bit of a triple whammy, not what you want when you've organised a break away 😟 Trouble is, you can't forsee these things sometimes! In a van we are lucky because we can move out of the way of bad weather, well usually. Well I hope you have a nice Christmas to make up for it! 🙏 And thank you I appreciate that about the music 🥰 Merry Christmas to you! ❤️🎄🥂
OMG ! Steve is a younger , brighter man ! Loving the beardless Steve. Still love Dan .. though ! Give Steve a new role of narrating a video please Dan on occasion and it will be very surprising 😅
Hello and thank you! Haha the beard has become quite the talking point 😄 I was a fan, but I'll take him either way and he'll love these comments 😍 Oh I would love Steve to narrate a video - I don't make it "me" by choice, it's because I know Steve rarely wants to feature. I gave up asking, but it's been a while so might try to persuade him again 😁 Cheers and Merry Christmas 🎄🥂
Wow Steve much younger looking , much better without , glad you’ve had a fairly good trip , Merry Christmas guys keep up the good work look forward to more in 2025, Hope you both have a happy , safe and prosperous 2025, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year, Ray South Uk.
Hi Ray, thank you so much, we've had a great time, but back to the chilly lands of the UK now! (still a couple more vids to edit from this trip though). Looks like the beard has been voted out in a landslide 😂 Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you too, and we'll see you for more adventures in 2025 all being well 😍🎄🥂
22 December here, three sleeps until Santa arrives. Harry isnt getting anything this year, old fluffy butt almost drained our bank account. You might have lowered the average age in Benidorm while you were there, toy boys would be so obvious. 👀 That moggy in the campsite was cute. 🐈I hope Daisy behaves for the rest of the hols and gets you home safely and on time. I just hope my driver gets me back home tomorrow. I like doing charity work but a risk to life and limb shouldnt be in the job description. Till next time Merry Christmas to you both. 🎄 🍻
Morning! I doubt Santa will be visiting us this year at work (we are now back), unless Stephen fancies dressing up. He came home from work dressed as an elf once, which was far more alluring than it should have been 😂 I'm sure Harry will cope without an extra treat this Christmas - the main thing is he's okay, although that's a hefty bill you had. Daisy was fine thank you, she's a good girl that one and we've been lucky with her really 🙏 I wish you all the luck once again for tomorrow 🙈 What is you do, go to collect donations did you say? Is there not a safer shop-based role you could take on instead? I'd be (and was) much happier doing a Christmas window in peace (although window dressing has its own set of hazards). Merry Christmas to you too, and to Harry! 🥰🎄🥂
@@comealongdear I think I'm the only one silly enough to accompany him, I've got a strained rhomboid from a fall a few months ago and throwing bags around aggravates it so I should be resting it, proves how bloody silly I am. 🤪 As a treat to all us subscribers could Steve dress up as a elf again (or was that 'role playing' for your eyes only?) Thank christ temps have been revised down to 30C xmas and 37C boxing day. 🤷🏻♂
Oh lord, well be careful especially with those strains, throwing bags around (that you often don't know what's in!) is risky. I often did my back in in that job - once I was doubled over almost to 90 degrees after lifting some boxes of crockery and had to make my way to the train station and home like that. I was in my 20s. Charity work is BAD for your health 😂 Haha I could try to tempt him to do it again, if we had an outfit. No not for me sadly, he did it for work, but I wouldn't mind seeing it again 😉 Revised down to a mere 37 degrees! Dear God. Mid-late 20s is absolutely our limit I feel. The UK is wet and miserable, but I feel that's too far the other way 🙈 Hope it's cooler for you either way and take care ❤️
Must you return to the UK? Prior to getting my ancestral Irish Passport, I used Morocco for my 90-day escape and this would have been my third winter in North Africa. I might go after New Year. It’s an amazing country to visit, it’s surprisingly liberal and I can’t wait to return.
Aah sadly we do have to return for work - but my god, I'd love to go to Morocco and have been trying to convince Stephen 😁 I really hope we can one day. With yourself and others I see always returning there, does tell me it must be a great place to visit. And of course, a proper escape from winter I expect. Have a wonderful time if you do go again, and Merry Christmas to you! 🎄🥂
Steve looks great without the beard! It looks like you are having a lot of fun iut tgere ( im jelous) those blue skies and lovely bright skies. You are soooo right what you say about the gay bars in the UK they've become a thing of the oast, both my Nephews are gay and they've to go further afield to find a decent club/bar, they've been to Benidorm a few times, lots going on never a dull moment. Enjoy rest of your time out tgere and merry xmas to you both. 🎄🎄🎄🎄
Hello! 🥰 Thank you, Steve will be relieved to read all this as he didn't like it when he initially shaved ❤️ We have had a great time, and was wonderful to see sunshine and warm temperatures in December. Yes gay bars are few and far between sadly, the culture feels like it's becoming lost, which is bizarre given how widespread and acceptable it is now and all the Pride events etc. I suspect some of it though is the general difficulties in running a bar nowadays. Still, there are a few hotspots and some still linger, so we do try to visit some when we visit towns and cities. Thank you and Merry Christmas to you too 🥰🎄🥂
Merry Christmas both off you hope your both well ?? Never been out off the UK but hopefully 2025 will be my year i turn 40 just before new year so its now or never for me ..... See you on the next one don't work to hard
Hi Nathan, we are both well thank you, missing Spain already! Hope things are good for you - going abroad for the first time is one amazing way to spend your 40th year 😍 I hope you get to do it. Any ideas where you'd like to go? It's never too late for these things as long as you're able, but I'd say go for it now if you can 🥰 Merry Christmas to you too, hope you have a good one ❤️🥂🎄
Pity about Stephen's beard indeed! Nice blue undies there Dan! Your own beard's fairly coming along. Interesting workout and do something vaguely similar about twice/week + decent walks. Question: what is the prevalence of TRAMS in Spain, please? Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Hooray, someone else who mourns the loss of Stephen's beard with me 😂 I expect he'll grow it again at some point, as I'll inevitably shave mine and change it, we always get bored as humans and want a change don't we. And thank you, I like that shade of blue, and morning coffee/tea time is NOT time to get dressed yet 🙃 Well done on the exercises! I sometimes do that routine 3 times in succession (with wee gaps in between), but it's quite hard I find. Definitely good to mix with walks and other exercises. Trams...well, we didn't see any, but apparently Spain does indeed have a few, in at least 10 cities, likely more, usually the bigger places of course. Funnily enough I think there is one in Alicante that runs to Benidorm, but we didn't see it. Thank you, Merry Christmas to you too, and Happy New Year! 🥰🎄🥂
What you were saying about Benidorm being like a little Britain is exactly what the coast can be like. We lived about 1 hour further south on the coast and it was the same but then travel jyst about 10-15 mins inland and you can experience traditional Spanish life. You guys are making me want to go back and visit Spain like NOW 😂😂. Happy Christmas 🎄 🎉
Hi Denise, yeah that's exactly it, it's a coastal thing and you're right it's in many places, though I think Benidorm is the most obvious example. Although we enjoyed it a lot, we are so pleased we travelled inland to see the more typically Spanish places and less touristy ones - that was definitely our favourite part I'd say. Aah I hope you can get to visit Spain again soon, we still feel like there's so much to see so we'd happily come back! Merry Christmas to you, hope you have a lovely time whatever you're doing 🥰🎄🥂
😂 Yes! Let's push that hashtag shall we 😂 Glad there's another fan and it's not just me, but either way, we'll take him as he comes, beard or no beard 😉 Merry Christmas! ❤️🎄🥂
Merry Christmas Mr Tomcat! Are you having Christmas dinner? Actually, what do they do in Australia, is it similar to here? Are sprouts on the agenda? At least you have a cooler day today. It is a balmy 8 degrees here!
@@comealongdear Just a few extra samosa and too much Lindt for me and actually I do like sprouts but they dont like me.💨Some people still do the traditional English Xmas dinner but a lot do a BBQ. Xmas in July is gaining popularity here. I remember my mother would make a wine trifle and a queen pudding to have after the roast, the extended family sweating it out in the kitchen, kids eating on the verandah, those were the days. Presently 9am and 22C, heading for a top of 33C at 1pm phew (better than 40C) but still 24C at 10pm. Cold weather does mean better sleep if you have enough blankets. How was your Xmas, did you have it in the van or with relos or friends?
We always sleep better in cold weather, just wrap up and as you say more blankets, it feels cosy. Sleeping in hot weather is diabolical. I hope and assume you have enough fans there! Samosa, that's interesting, what do you have that with? Do you have bbq too? It makes sense why people do that given that it's your summer, and I suppose it means you can have outdoor gatherings. I find Christmas so heavily associated with winter and cold that I can't imagine it myself! Lindt of course is beyond divine. They do vegan Lindt as well now. We are sadly working over this period, so we're back in the UK now, so in the van but we did have a mock up Christmas Dinner of sorts which turned out pretty well. Next week we are free and then we'll be exploring the UK again in mid January at the latest I expect. Hope you're enjoying yourself and give Harry a stroke from us both 😁
@@comealongdear I do like a samosa, local supermarket sells frozen ones made in India, a few minutes in the air fryer drizzle on olive oil, lovely. I have them with a vegan cutlet cos I am too lazy to cook anything elaborate. All Lindt Excellence above 75% cocoa is vegan, I just had a few squares of 95%, I thought I was eating 85% but wondered why it was more bitter, a real mans chocolate!😋but it can be too much at times. I have seen the 'vegan' range, it has oat milk to make creamy. It's mild here today, 22c. I think xmas in July is gaining popularity here because of the colder weather ( might be ex-pats). Harry is upset because I won't let him outside, he isn't strong enough to go another round with that stray and if I can't catch him to give him his heart tablet each day things will get serious. I am off to buy a large foldable pet carrier so he can sit in that outside, I was making him another catio but he won't be happy with that for long I know. Vet showed me on the X-ray he had a fractured back bone that hasn't bothered him but it prob affects his mobility, he was limping 12 months ago so his leg was injured too. He is a worry. I am looking forward to more travelogues from you two intrepid travellers, you really are quite the bon vivants. Well maybe more with regard to the drink than the food. 😀 Harry keeps coming back in from the front security door and meowing at me to open it, sorry fella. I do hope I dont give in to him. Living in the van means you dont have to commute to work, the boss can knock on your window for extra work? Availability is a good thing? Enough waffling, I better sort Harry out. 🍻
Poor Harry! Yes don't give in to him until he's feeling more up to it. He'll need that medication. And a fracture too 😕 It's funny with animals, although you can tell when they're sick sometimes, they often don't show it, dogs are the same. They can't tell you what's wrong but equally they frequently don't whine or show any weakness. It's difficult but the more serious stuff is obvious I suppose and it sounds like he's cared for immensely by yourself, so he's in good hands 😻 Christmas in July 😂 I mean fair enough, it's so associated with winter and I can't imagine such a thing in summer, but although I know you do get snow in some regions, it's not like Australia suddenly turns into Lapland in July is it, so I do wonder if it's worth it. Maybe if you go to one of the mountainous ski resort type places. When we're at work we are parked up on site in a gated compound, we sleep in the van taking it in turns to do shifts in the building, so it's very handy and there's showers here etc. The shifts are planned well in advance but sometimes we are asked to stay on if the couple taking over from us can't make it for example. It's a good set up, I doubt we'll find anything so convenient again if it ever ends.
Did you see James and Helen from By the Curb, while you were there? It's their favourite place. Stephen looks cute without his whiskers. That place is far too crowded for me. ilona I've just had to fast forward. Far too noisy. I look forward to the next one.
Merry Christmas Ilona 🥰 Haha no we didn't see them there, but wouldn't have been a surprise if we had, we do love that pair. Now Benidorm is definitely not for everyone (and for us, 2 days is enough) so I forgive you for fast-forwarding 😂 Have a lovely day whatever you're up to! ❤️
@meanqueensuperscrimper8908 oh your food sounds so perfectly me I could salivate right now if I wasn't worried about my top (also not a great look when you have a beard - maybe I should get rid). Are you seeing anyone today Ilona? I hope it's a nice day either way, going to the seaside sounds ideal. A brisk stroll on Christmas Day feels special somehow. Take care ❤️
@@comealongdear Hello again. I'm back, a lovely day at Cleethorpes. The stroll turned into a brisk walk the whole length of the promenade, there and back, about four miles. I hadn't arranged to meet anyone, but I got talking to several people. I will talk to anybody, usually dog walkers. I am like a roving reporter, asking lots of questions. Now I've got to sort the photo's out.
Benidorm is not España, it is a sunny and warm part of the UK 😀 Good that you have a good time. Always so lovely to see you two. I wish you a very merry Xmas. Best greetings from me in a sunny Andalucía 😀❤️
Hi Mattias! Haha, you're right, it's not quite España as we know it, but it's very good for what it is and a fun place to be 😍 Will you spending Christmas in Andalucía? Lovely to hear from you, Merry Christmas from us both 🥰🎄🥂
Yes sadly we will be working over Christmas (we are back now, but still 2 more videos from our trip to edit and release) so we'll be pretending Christmas is on New year's eve I think 😂 Have a good one and all the best to you Mattias ❤️🎄
What a difference in Steve without that beard he looks fabulous Dan I think you need to take a leaf out of your husband‘s book and shave that rat off around your face. Steve’s looking pretty good these days babe Benidorm looks fantastic. You guys look like you’re having loads of fun, keep it coming, boys Hope you enjoy Christmas and don’t work too hard.
Jesus Keith, don't hold back will you 😂 You'll be relieved to know both Stephen and I can get bored of things relatively quickly, so I'm sure my beard will follow suit...eventually 😉 For now, I'm afraid the rat is staying - I've even attempted dying it, for fun. Midlife crisis incoming 😂😜 Anyway yes Steve is looking fab and I don't mind him with beard or without (after 15+ years together, you'd hope it wouldn't matter!). Benidorm was wonderful fun, but we needed somewhere quiet after that! Merry Christmas! 🎄🥂
Never been to Benidorm, didn't even know it existed, but it must be a party town if they have Kopparbergs cider bar mats. 😅 Looks lovely but I bet the heat in summer must be too much. That cat is part of why I don't travel, I get so much angst and concern about strays like that. The beach looked busy and relaxed, winter must be the time to go there. Looks very American with those high rises. The clear water is a sign of unhealthy water unfortunately, mainy for living organisms in it because it has such a low level of nutrition. What looks pretty, really is bad news to be fair. Apologies for ruining it. 🤫 Really enjoyed seeing the sunny weather AND palm trees! I hope you had a great time, the food looked fantastic and yourselves! Wishing you a God Jul och Gott Nytt År from Skåne! 🎉🎄🎁🎆♥️
Good Morning! 🌞 The sun has sprung out here through the wintery clouds (we're now back in the UK - of course the sun won't last). I suppose Benidorm is a party town of sorts, but it feels like there's more to it than that, as so many retired, older people come here for the sunshine and the British familiarity. We find it a bit like a theme park - we enjoy embracing it, but wouldn't choose it as a "go to" holiday place or anything. You're right, I think winter is the time to come, indeed many Brits come here for Christmas. Do the Swedish have a particular place abroad they are known to flock to? It'd be interesting to know! The heat here in summer would be unbearable - I don't think we'd ever come to Spain then, us pasty English would disintegrate! Oh now that's very interesting about the water! I honestly didn't know, but it makes perfect sense - a quick google suggests another reason is because the Mediterranean is enclosed so water transferred from one place to another is less frequent obviously than an ocean or open sea. What I'd like to know though, regarding nutrients,is whether that's entirely normal or not - because obviously most of the Med is clear near the coast, as is the Caribbean and other tropical/sub tropical sea water. So although it might lack nutrients, is that just entirely normal or has the clear water only become or made clearer because of humans? On the opposite end, some of Scotland's most remote beaches have crystal clear water and I'd be stunned if they lack nutrients. I guess there's probably a lot of factors, but I'm glad you brought it to my attention, so thank you! Education on a Benidorm video, who'd have thought 😂 Anyway, I hope you're well and good, next week sees something a bit more traditionally Spanish and pretty 😁 Wishing you a God jul och Gott Nytt År too, have a wonderful festive season in Skåne 🥰🎄🥂
@comealongdear I think most Swedes have "traditionally" gone to the Canary Islands and Mallorca, but now many choose Thailand it seems. If I had my pick I'd probably go to Italy. Mainly for the food. 😂 I saw too that the Med is low on nutrients because of low change in water. Maybe the temperature also comes into play. Coral reefs don't do well in high temps and if they go, the micro nutrients disappear as well. Another may be Ph levels, I'm not sure. All I've learned is that crystal waters look nice, but usually are a sign of imbalance. On the opposite is algae-ridden waters that drain the oxygen from it. We learn something every day, even in Benidorm 😂 Don't freeze too much back in Britain and hope you have a lovely Christmas holiday!
Never been to Italy and would love to, so I think I'd be coming with you 😍 We do love the Canaries too, but never been to the Balearics. I think Thailand is extremely popular here too - more expensive flights, but balanced out by the cost when there. Well, I will certainly never look at crystal clear water in the same way again that's for sure! I'll be looking it up every time we go somewhere now 😂 Not too cold here, though it bordered on 0 yesterday or the day before. Hopefully it's tolerable for you there and the festivities get you through. Take care and have a good one 🥰🎄
I think you look so much younger Steve without the beard! 𝓜𝓮𝓻𝓻𝔂 𝓒𝓱𝓻𝓲𝓼𝓽𝓶𝓪𝓼 𝓫𝓸𝔂𝓼 have a fab day ! I should have read the comments! Repeating myself about Steve . The sun of Spain is very inviting! Thanks for sharing. Keep safe xx
Morning Lindsay, haha that's okay, I'm sure he'll be happy to read more comments on it 😄 Think it means I'll never see the beard again though 😂 Thank you, Merry Christmas to you and thanks for sticking with us throughout these videos! 🥰🥂🎄
Morning all! We hope you're well wherever you are across the world. This week we find ourselves back in Benidorm, that marmite location that everyone's got an opinion on - even when they've never been! After experiencing it again for a weekend, we've come to the conclusion it's a bit like fish & chips - it might not be good for you, but there is something tasty, satisfying and familiar about it every now and again. It's a comforting, indulgent treat. But it's definitely not for everyone. Let us know your thoughts if you've been, or if you'd like to, or if you can't think of anything worse 😂
Meanwhile, well, we're actually back in the UK now! Back to work over Christmas (booo), but there will be one more Spain video on the 29th, before another showing our journey home (which was a disaster to start with 🙈). Then you'll catch up with us in the New Year for some UK plans that involve thinking about our future…
With that though, Merry Christmas to all of our subscribers! 🎄❤️ Thank you for supporting us these past couple of years, we love reading all your comments and advice each week. We hope you have a wonderful (or at least tolerable, because it's not for everyone) festive season if you can, and we hope you stick around for the last two videos of this trip. Then we'll see you in the new year 😁
P.S - we thought we ended the video, then remembered it was going out at Christmas, so the end isn't actually the end, there's an extra bit added on 🙃
Merry Christmas all, and thank you! 🥰🎄🥂
Steve looks so much younger without the beard. A really chilled out video in my favourite place in the world. A good video before the Christmas period. Hope you guys have a lovely Christmas. Have a well deserved rest.
Hi Paul, thank you, so you're a fan of Benidorm too? It's absolutely one of those don't knock it til you've tried it places, but you have to throw yourself into the spirit of things - I think we love it now in its own unique way ❤️
Oh no, all these comments about Steve's beard means I'll never see it again 😂😟 I was right to say a prayer for it 😉 But thank you, he'll be pleased to hear it.
Merry Christmas to you, and hope you have a lovely time this festive season 🥰🎄🥂
Steve you look so much younger without the beard.
Aah thank you, he'll be happy someone said that 😁 He does indeed look younger, but I must admit I (Dan) loved the beard ❤️
I was going to say the same 😊
Agree!
Hi guys love the channel, great video, have a blessed Yule 🙏🏻
Thank you so much, Merry Christmas to you! 🥰🎄
Yes you look younger Steve love from Maryann and l love Benidorm ❤
Hi Maryann, thank you he'll love you saying that 🥰 And yay, another Benidorm fan! I feel we are quite converted now. There isn't anywhere else like it. Merry Christmas to you ❤️🎄
Glad you enjoyed it. Benidorm gets a bad press but there is much more than cheap booze and bars. Albir and Altea are beautiful and the beaches at Benidorm are really lovely. I just happen to be reading a book about the legacy of Franco and got to a section covering Benidorm. What I found fascinating was that everyone knew that it had wonderful beaches but it took the mayor in the 1950s to seize the potential and create a town. So if you take it as a planned town that is designed for tourism, it is much easier to comprehend. Everyone there knows what it is about and therefore buys into that. No-one is under any illusions about the town. The streets are wonderfully clean (and you see workers cleaning the streets which is something you don't often see in the UK), the beaches are kept spotless and police regularly patrol to keep everyone safe. It is a model of how to do tourism. The final point is that it is a monument to hard work. All the people there work hard at what they do and from what I can see enjoy doing it. They deserve all the success that they get.
Hi Stephen 😊 I couldn't agree more with what you're saying, and what's especially fascinating is how Benidorm grew from almost nothing to the size it is. I think it was once a small fishing village, but generally, it's built entirely from scratch. And in such quick time, relatively! You're looking at it in totally the right way, it's created especially for brief enjoyment, and as you say, it's looked after incredibly well, well policed and very tidy. In essence, it's much more enjoyable and better managed than going out on the town in most UK areas, and by and large, it feels safe. We love it now!
Thank you for your thoughts, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you 🥰🎄🥂
Steve looks younger, and tidier. Bravo Steve.
Steve says thank you 😁 He certainly does look fresher! (But I still loved the beard 😂). Merry Christmas to you! 🥰🥂🎄
@@comealongdear Merry Christmas guys.
@@comealongdear I sent you an email, it may go to your junk folder?
I have received, that was absolutely brilliant, thank you 😁😍 Merry Christmas! 🎄❤️
@@comealongdear LOL fab
I like Steve fresh faced without the beard. Sorry you have missed out going to various places but enjoy the places you can do.
Thank you Katty ❤️ We don't feel hard done by, we are so lucky and grateful to have seen what we did! More reason to come back one day 😁 Merry Christmas to you and Happy New Year! ❤️🎄🥂
@@comealongdear Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
Steve looks much younger and fit well done brilliant video xx
Thank you Pat, glad you liked it 🥰 Steve definitely looks younger! Merry Christmas to you ❤️🎄🥂
Merry Christmas Guys xx
Don't feel guilty for enjoying a little 'tapas, wine and beer'. You both deserve to let your hair down 😆 and revel in the spoils of Benidorm. Safe travels when heading north. I sincerely wish you chaps all the best for this season and for 2025. Sharon 💚
Aah thank you so much Sharon ❤️ We had a ball here, it's fun just to roll with the Benidorm way, and the tapas was fabulous 👌😍 Merry Christmas to you, all the best ❤️🥂🎄
When you said "see BENIDORM from a distance" we couldn't help but think "best way to see it"... Although BENIDORM in winter is actually so much better, but still.... BENIDORM! We are so not suited to the Benidorm life, too many people, all those tall buildings.
Good on you for helping the cat, that made Alison happy.
Tapas! Started as a way of showing available dishes to foreign sailers who didn't speak the language. They were shown small portions of each dish on the pots lid. Lid in Spanish is "tapa". Sorry, having to flex our Spanish knowledge just that we're in Greece and have no idea what we're doing, saying and sometimes eating...
Much love Darren and Alison 🤟♥️
Haha well we absolutely don't blame you, and as much as we enjoyed ourselves, it's one of those places we were glad to leave and visit quieter locations afterwards. We could never live in a city, but it's nice to dip your toes in occasionally. I do find those tall buildings together oddly captivating even if they aren't appealing at all, if that makes sense. Spectacle is the word.
I thought Alison would appreciate the cat love 😻 He/she came into the van at some point too. I suspect he/she (we never did check) had an owner or lived on the campsite at least so we weren't too concerned, but you do find yourself getting attached very quickly. A bigger van and we'd probably have pets like you.
Now that is a good bit of tapas knowledge, I thank you! I suppose, in some ways, it's still the same purpose, as it gives you a small bite of larger dishes in many cases.
By the the time you get used to Greek food and useful sayings, I expect you'll be on your way to another country, but the confusion is all part of the fun, right?! Have a great time, not jealous at all...nope...🙃🤪
Much love to you both ❤️ 🤟
Yes, it's three days until Christmas. I haven't put my tree up, and doubt I will this year. It's only a small one that I hang on the wall, with one flat side, to keep the cats from taking all the baubles.
Only one cat now, as I buried one in the back garden yesterday. Thank heaven's her sister is healthy, at 12, and has a few more good years in her.
Speaking of cats, like your little visitor, they often travel about and get fed by several people. I prefer indoor cats.
What a lovely spot to vacation in. Even with Daisy's repairs, you're saving on air fare and hotels. :)
I love the 'as it happens' videos. It's real life.
Jon in rural BC, Canada
Hi Jon, sorry to hear about your cat 😟 The traumas of having pets we love that we frequently outlive. Sometimes we have to do what's right for them instead of seeing them suffer, if only we could do the same for people (small steps here towards that lately, but it's a pebble sized stepping stone in a vast sea..). I wonder if her sister notices her absence? She must do really, not that you can always tell with cats.
Sensible about the hanging tree!
We are suckers for feeding any animal that comes to us, we can't help it. We'd like some of our own again if we ever settle down.
Glad you liked the video - yes, it was a good place to stay even if it's not our usual choice of location, and all the while we stay in a van we get to visit these places for a fraction of the price you'd spend on a "proper" holiday. So can't complain!
Merry Christmas to you Jon, are you spending it with anyone this year? Admittedly Christmas isn't for everyone. But does seem like a good opportunity for a long distance game of D&D 😁 Thank you and take care 🎄🥰
@@comealongdear Oh, yes, she knows her sister is gone. She looked for her, in all her hidey holes, but now she's beginning to relax again.
Game day is the 28 th. :)
I will be going to another party on Christmas Eve, so I'll get enough turkey and company. I'm a bit of a hermit, so two parties of people will do me for awhile. I did buy a good book on Kindle, so I'll be set.
Cheers and Merry Christmas to you two. :)
Jon in rural BC, Canada
Well have fun, in many ways Christmas Eve is nicer (even as adults, when we've no reason to believe in any red-suited visitors). We are very hermit-like too so nothing wrong with that, as long as you're okay that's the main thing. Enjoy game night! Merry Christmas Jon 🎄🥂
Hi guys, it's a thumbs up for Steve's clean-shaven look from us! - It looks like you had great fun in Benidorm, we have no plans for February yet so might give it a go - we are Benidorm virgins so it could be fun! We have one more week in Cyprus so will be here for Christmas - wherever you two are, have the best time - Merry Christmas 🎄🧑🎄 🍷🍷xx
Hi guys, thank you, Steve will be happy 😁 Fun is the best way to describe Benidorm, look at it like that and enjoy it for what it is and you'll have a good time 😍 Be great to hear how you get on if you do go! Enjoy being in Cyprus at Christmas, how lovely is that. Merry Christmas to you both too, take care ❤️🎄🥂
Merry Christmas both and to all the subscribers to this fabulous vlog. Have a good one 😊
Aww thank you Andrew, we're not going to protest at "fabulous vlog" 😂😍 Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you! ❤️
Lovely video as always, seems like you had a fabulous time in Benidorm! Wish you a peaceful and relaxing Christmas!
Thank you Catarina 🥰 We had a great time there, not sure we necessarily expected to, but we definitely did! It's quite pretty in certain places too, not just bars! A Merry Christmas to you too, all the best ❤️🎄🥂
Merry Christmas guys 😘
Thank you, Merry Christmas to you too! ❤️🎄🥂
Love the new look without the beard - really makes you look younger. It’s been many decades since I was in Benidorm - not the place for me, I’m afraid I couldn’t cope with all the people and the noise in the bars. It seems like mini Britain. I wish you both a blessed and peaceful Christmas and a very happy New Year. Thank you for all your lovely videos - stay safe at work. ❤️❤️
Morning Irene! 🥰 Benidorm is definitely not for everyone and I don't think we'd ever want to spend a week there - there's no need, I feel you can see it in a day or two - but we do understand the attraction. We don't go out too often to noisy places, often because I'm uncomfortable (which isn't always present but comes and goes in waves) and Stephen dislikes it anyway, but sometimes the occasional urge draws us in, though being several drinks deep by that last bar undoubtedly gave us the necessary armour 😳🙈 It's the same with big cities, we generally hate them, London included, but sometimes it's nice to visit and then quickly run away at the end.
In next week's video we go somewhere the total opposite, to balance it out 😉😁
Thank you Irene, I hope you're both well. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you too, and thank you for all your support. Take care 🥰🎄🥂
@ 👍❤️🥂❤️🥂
Steve you look AMAZING younger, fitter, cool so glad the beard has gone! 😮 Happy Christmas to you both.❤
Thank you, I think he's quite shocked by all this beardless love, but he's not complaining 😁 Merry Christmas to you too! ❤️🎄🥂
Ain't been for a few years, but I love Benidorm. Merry Christmas & Cheers lads.
Morning Gareth, yep it seems to be a love or hate place, glad to see another fan though! Cheers and Merry Christmas to you! 🎄🥂
Bendidorm looks exactly the same as it ever did. It always amazes me how clean the beach looks despite the footfall. Good to see you both enjoy the wine and tapas. Cute little cat Fifi would have liked it alas she was still in bed ( our bed ) fast asleep. Glad you got your last bit of sun. Have a very Happy Christmas and fantastic travels in 2025. Susie ❤❤🥂🎅🎅
Morning Susie 🥰 Yes I can imagine Benidorm looking the same in 100 years now (if we're all still here 🙈🤪), it feels like it's "peaked" with what it needs to be. You're right it's very clean there, that beach is always amazing to see, and the town is very well kept too. We had great fun. Fifi would have been more than welcome to some tapas, but she'll have to get up and watch us next time 😂
Happy Christmas to you too Susie, hope you have a lovely time 🥰🥂🎄
@@comealongdear Thanks very much Dan, you and Stephen too. Fifi still in bed obviously not had her 18 hours yet! Yes it will be the same forever it's stood the test of time. A fun place.
Until next time take care xx
Haha, the life of a cat 😂😍 Thank you Susie, take care ❤️
@comealongdear my next life 😁
Steve is much better without that beard. You look amazing with yours. We hope you have a very happy Christmas. Keep the adventures coming. All the best.Pj❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥
Aww thank you Paul, I appreciate that 🥰 I personally loved Stephen's beard, but the crowd have spoken 😂 I think he'll probably half grow it back, maybe not as wild. Merry Christmas to you too, hope you have a good one and see you on the next adventure 🥰🥂🎄
You look lovely and young Steve. Maybe the youngsters are sleeping in the daytime. The water is really lovely and clear, Spain is well looked after and kept clean.
Enjoy the rest of your stay. X
Good Afternoon, thank you, he'll be delighted with these compliments 😍 He definitely looks younger (even if I miss the beard 😉). Yes I think it was siesta time and they all likely came out in the evening more. Benidorm was so clean though and it felt safe. Merry Christmas to you! ❤️🎄🙏
You look great Steve! Also, day drunk is best drunk is what I always say.
Steve says thank you! 😁 And yes there's nothing quite like day drunk, especially in sunshine is there 😂 Every now and again anyway 😉
Great vlog 😁 we watch u often but dont comment much but wanted to say Merry Christmas to u both 😊🎅🎄🎁 🥂
Aww thank you guys, good to know you're on board with us and lovely to hear from you 🥰 Merry Christmas to you both too ❤️🥂🎄
@comealongdear thanks 🥰🎅🎄🎁
Have a cool Yule boys - after a stressful week you made me laugh out loud when describing the ‘branches’. I need to get my festive hat on and travel to London from Wales to see my two favourite children - the grands. Great video you remind me of George and Mildred as I and my partner do too. I’m not saying who is Yootha xx
😂😂😂 I'm sure I could guess, but I think we'd both be fighting to be Yootha 😂 Glad the video gave you a laugh, and I hope you have a good time in London - sometimes we do need to glue on our festive hats to get into the spirit as it is suddenly thrust upon us "Forced fun" as Stephen calls it 😂 But I do love Christmas, and I think he does deep down in there somewhere 😉 Thank You and Merry Christmas! ❤️🎄🥂
Great video. Enjoyed. Safe travels x
Thank you! Glad you liked it ❤️ Have you been to Benidorm? Merry Christmas to you 🎄🥂
Merry Christmas to you both. Love following your travels can’t wait to see what 2025 brings for you, I’m sure it will be great !!
Aww thank you, we don't know what 2025 will bring but we do appreciate you following along, it means a lot to us 🙏❤️ Wishing you a very Merry Christmas 🥰🥂🎄
With or without the beard Steve you look good, thanks Dan for all the wonderful commentary about the reputation it's got, I've been to many parts of Spain but never into Benidorm and it certainly does look nice, although one or two of those establishments look a bit dodgy by night time maybe, but you two presented it very well and kept us informed and interested so sorry the trip back home was bad, but I do hope you both have a wonderful Christmas and new year
Hi Michael 🥰 Yes I don't mind Steve with or without beard, I do prefer with, but I think I'm in the minority there 😂
I'm glad you enjoyed the vlog, we tried to show Benidorm in an honest way and get across what it's really like, but also to try to throw ourselves into the spirit of things and enjoy it. It's definitely not for everyone, but I'm glad we went. Thank you Michael and Merry Christmas to you too, I hope you have good one whatever you're up to, and thank you for all your support we appreciate it 🥰🎄🥂
Have a great Xmas you two ,can not wait to see you both in the New Year, Take care xx
And a Merry Christmas to you too! 🎄🥰 Have a good one, thank you and see you on the next video 😁❤️
Morning my lovelies ❤ Am sat on my phone messaging you whilst you are also on my sister's telly every little helps 😂😂😂😂❤❤❤❤
Good Morning Susan 😍 Lovely bit of multitasking there, we like to see it, especially when it involves us on two devices at once 😂 Thank you, and hope you enjoy the video on the big(ger) screen 😍 Merry Christmas to you! ❤️🎄
@comealongdear And a very merry Christmas to you ❤️❤️🎄🎄
Hi guys just came across this vlog and loved it,keep on keeping on 😊
Hello Michail, welcome aboard 😍 Glad you found us and enjoyed the vlog, we appreciate it 🙏❤️ Merry Christmas to you 🎄🥂
Merry Christmas!! 🎅
Thank you, and Merry Christmas to you too! 😍🎄🥂
Stephen looks pretty cute without the beard 😉 Merry Xmas boys 😘🎄x
Thank you, he'll like that 😉 Merry Christmas to you too! ❤️🥂🎄
Wishing you both a very merry Christmas and a happy New year
Thank you Sally, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you too! 🥰🎄🥂
Merry Christmas to you both - great vlog guys
Thank you David, Merry Christmas to you too! ❤️ 🎄
Very entertaining! I'm sure I've seen Dan before somewhere. I lived in Benidorm twice and if you'd have gone into the British quarter about 2 streets behind the end of the seafront (near McDonalds) you'd have seen the "debauchery" you were on about around Cafe B and that area. But it is realtively safe unless you're out drunk at 3am you might come into a bit of trouble, but it's limited. I've been in some right states on my own and never had any trouble. Merry Christmas!
Cheers Neil! Maybe I've just got one of "those" faces, not sure that's a good thing mind 😂🤔 Yes I think we sort of went through the British area, we ended up in The Black Chicken which was more British than any British pub back home to be honest 😆 Had a great time though! And yes it does feel safe even with the drunken revelry although like anywhere you no doubt have to be mindful, but it certainly feels safer than going out on the town here as a comparison. Bet it was fun to live there for a while! Thank you and Merry Christmas to you! ❤️🥂
@@comealongdear Cheers to you both. It was just your mention of Ramsgate for the best ice cream, so I assumed you're from that side of Kent, like me.
Ah, yeah we are both from Kent and have lived all over there at various points. Regularly go back to see family so you might have seen us around! 😁
Hi there guys just a quick message to say a very happy Christmas to you both have a great time best wishes from Geoff and sam ❤️
Awww, Geoff and Sam! I hope you guys are doing okay? Thank you and Merry Christmas to you both too ❤️🥰
I would like to wish you both a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, haven't commented for ages but always love following you on your travels, Benidorm looks good, a few beers and some lovely tapas, perfect, pity you weren't able to keep up with the fitness regime but sometimes it's good to have a little rest, at least your nose was running lol, anyway all the best and take care.
Hi Kenneth, thank you so much and great to hear from you 😊 Benidorm was such good fun, a great way to spend a weekend, but very much an "every now and again" kind of place 😂 The fitness has picked up a bit since, but yes apart from the nose, the beer and wine were running (flowing) too so that's something 😂 Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you too, all the best 🎄❤️🥂
Thats warmer than the Canaries, from which I have just returned !!
Oh no really?! You always assume it never gets cold in the Canaries 😂 Hope you still had a good time regardless! ❤️
@@comealongdear Well , after heavy rain , a yellow high wind warning and a calima where we were advised not to go out, yes !! Wish I had gone to Benidorm. Love the music you play too
Oh no! That's a bit of a triple whammy, not what you want when you've organised a break away 😟 Trouble is, you can't forsee these things sometimes! In a van we are lucky because we can move out of the way of bad weather, well usually. Well I hope you have a nice Christmas to make up for it! 🙏 And thank you I appreciate that about the music 🥰 Merry Christmas to you! ❤️🎄🥂
OMG ! Steve is a younger , brighter man ! Loving the beardless Steve. Still love Dan .. though ! Give Steve a new role of narrating a video please Dan on occasion and it will be very surprising 😅
Hello and thank you! Haha the beard has become quite the talking point 😄 I was a fan, but I'll take him either way and he'll love these comments 😍 Oh I would love Steve to narrate a video - I don't make it "me" by choice, it's because I know Steve rarely wants to feature. I gave up asking, but it's been a while so might try to persuade him again 😁 Cheers and Merry Christmas 🎄🥂
The black chicken 😂😂😂 yes, have had a good few nights in there ❤
Oh it was great fun, seems to be karaoke all day every day 😂 And the prices of those drinks! No wonder everyone was drunk 😂
Wow Steve much younger looking , much better without , glad you’ve had a fairly good trip , Merry Christmas guys keep up the good work look forward to more in 2025, Hope you both have a happy , safe and prosperous 2025, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year, Ray South Uk.
Hi Ray, thank you so much, we've had a great time, but back to the chilly lands of the UK now! (still a couple more vids to edit from this trip though). Looks like the beard has been voted out in a landslide 😂 Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you too, and we'll see you for more adventures in 2025 all being well 😍🎄🥂
We are booked in early January, its our drive and flop its just easy 😂
Ah brilliant, have a lovely time! 😍 Yep, it's so easy to fit into and enjoy yourself in Benidorm ❤️
22 December here, three sleeps until Santa arrives. Harry isnt getting anything this year, old fluffy butt almost drained our bank account. You might have lowered the average age in Benidorm while you were there, toy boys would be so obvious. 👀 That moggy in the campsite was cute. 🐈I hope Daisy behaves for the rest of the hols and gets you home safely and on time. I just hope my driver gets me back home tomorrow. I like doing charity work but a risk to life and limb shouldnt be in the job description. Till next time Merry Christmas to you both. 🎄 🍻
Morning! I doubt Santa will be visiting us this year at work (we are now back), unless Stephen fancies dressing up. He came home from work dressed as an elf once, which was far more alluring than it should have been 😂 I'm sure Harry will cope without an extra treat this Christmas - the main thing is he's okay, although that's a hefty bill you had. Daisy was fine thank you, she's a good girl that one and we've been lucky with her really 🙏
I wish you all the luck once again for tomorrow 🙈 What is you do, go to collect donations did you say? Is there not a safer shop-based role you could take on instead? I'd be (and was) much happier doing a Christmas window in peace (although window dressing has its own set of hazards). Merry Christmas to you too, and to Harry! 🥰🎄🥂
@@comealongdear I think I'm the only one silly enough to accompany him, I've got a strained rhomboid from a fall a few months ago and throwing bags around aggravates it so I should be resting it, proves how bloody silly I am. 🤪 As a treat to all us subscribers could Steve dress up as a elf again (or was that 'role playing' for your eyes only?) Thank christ temps have been revised down to 30C xmas and 37C boxing day. 🤷🏻♂
Oh lord, well be careful especially with those strains, throwing bags around (that you often don't know what's in!) is risky. I often did my back in in that job - once I was doubled over almost to 90 degrees after lifting some boxes of crockery and had to make my way to the train station and home like that. I was in my 20s. Charity work is BAD for your health 😂
Haha I could try to tempt him to do it again, if we had an outfit. No not for me sadly, he did it for work, but I wouldn't mind seeing it again 😉
Revised down to a mere 37 degrees! Dear God. Mid-late 20s is absolutely our limit I feel. The UK is wet and miserable, but I feel that's too far the other way 🙈 Hope it's cooler for you either way and take care ❤️
@@comealongdear Steve's beard grows like a billy goat's, under the chin so tends to grow wild.🐐 No offence meant 😆 (my two penneth worth)
😂 I think he'd agree with you to be fair!
Must you return to the UK? Prior to getting my ancestral Irish Passport, I used Morocco for my 90-day escape and this would have been my third winter in North Africa. I might go after New Year. It’s an amazing country to visit, it’s surprisingly liberal and I can’t wait to return.
Aah sadly we do have to return for work - but my god, I'd love to go to Morocco and have been trying to convince Stephen 😁 I really hope we can one day. With yourself and others I see always returning there, does tell me it must be a great place to visit. And of course, a proper escape from winter I expect. Have a wonderful time if you do go again, and Merry Christmas to you! 🎄🥂
Steve looks great without the beard! It looks like you are having a lot of fun iut tgere ( im jelous) those blue skies and lovely bright skies.
You are soooo right what you say about the gay bars in the UK they've become a thing of the oast, both my Nephews are gay and they've to go further afield to find a decent club/bar, they've been to Benidorm a few times, lots going on never a dull moment.
Enjoy rest of your time out tgere and merry xmas to you both. 🎄🎄🎄🎄
Hello! 🥰 Thank you, Steve will be relieved to read all this as he didn't like it when he initially shaved ❤️ We have had a great time, and was wonderful to see sunshine and warm temperatures in December.
Yes gay bars are few and far between sadly, the culture feels like it's becoming lost, which is bizarre given how widespread and acceptable it is now and all the Pride events etc. I suspect some of it though is the general difficulties in running a bar nowadays. Still, there are a few hotspots and some still linger, so we do try to visit some when we visit towns and cities. Thank you and Merry Christmas to you too 🥰🎄🥂
Merry Christmas both off you hope your both well ?? Never been out off the UK but hopefully 2025 will be my year i turn 40 just before new year so its now or never for me ..... See you on the next one don't work to hard
Hi Nathan, we are both well thank you, missing Spain already! Hope things are good for you - going abroad for the first time is one amazing way to spend your 40th year 😍 I hope you get to do it. Any ideas where you'd like to go? It's never too late for these things as long as you're able, but I'd say go for it now if you can 🥰 Merry Christmas to you too, hope you have a good one ❤️🥂🎄
Pity about Stephen's beard indeed! Nice blue undies there Dan! Your own beard's fairly coming along. Interesting workout and do something vaguely similar about twice/week + decent walks. Question: what is the prevalence of TRAMS in Spain, please? Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Hooray, someone else who mourns the loss of Stephen's beard with me 😂 I expect he'll grow it again at some point, as I'll inevitably shave mine and change it, we always get bored as humans and want a change don't we. And thank you, I like that shade of blue, and morning coffee/tea time is NOT time to get dressed yet 🙃
Well done on the exercises! I sometimes do that routine 3 times in succession (with wee gaps in between), but it's quite hard I find. Definitely good to mix with walks and other exercises.
Trams...well, we didn't see any, but apparently Spain does indeed have a few, in at least 10 cities, likely more, usually the bigger places of course. Funnily enough I think there is one in Alicante that runs to Benidorm, but we didn't see it.
Thank you, Merry Christmas to you too, and Happy New Year! 🥰🎄🥂
@@comealongdear 🥰
What you were saying about Benidorm being like a little Britain is exactly what the coast can be like. We lived about 1 hour further south on the coast and it was the same but then travel jyst about 10-15 mins inland and you can experience traditional Spanish life. You guys are making me want to go back and visit Spain like NOW 😂😂. Happy Christmas 🎄 🎉
Hi Denise, yeah that's exactly it, it's a coastal thing and you're right it's in many places, though I think Benidorm is the most obvious example. Although we enjoyed it a lot, we are so pleased we travelled inland to see the more typically Spanish places and less touristy ones - that was definitely our favourite part I'd say.
Aah I hope you can get to visit Spain again soon, we still feel like there's so much to see so we'd happily come back!
Merry Christmas to you, hope you have a lovely time whatever you're doing 🥰🎄🥂
#bringbackyourbeardsteve it really suits you
😂 Yes! Let's push that hashtag shall we 😂 Glad there's another fan and it's not just me, but either way, we'll take him as he comes, beard or no beard 😉 Merry Christmas! ❤️🎄🥂
It's Christmas day in Melbourne now and it's only 29C woohoo but 36C tomorrow, what's it like in England today?
Merry Christmas Mr Tomcat! Are you having Christmas dinner? Actually, what do they do in Australia, is it similar to here? Are sprouts on the agenda? At least you have a cooler day today. It is a balmy 8 degrees here!
@@comealongdear Just a few extra samosa and too much Lindt for me and actually I do like sprouts but they dont like me.💨Some people still do the traditional English Xmas dinner but a lot do a BBQ. Xmas in July is gaining popularity here. I remember my mother would make a wine trifle and a queen pudding to have after the roast, the extended family sweating it out in the kitchen, kids eating on the verandah, those were the days. Presently 9am and 22C, heading for a top of 33C at 1pm phew (better than 40C) but still 24C at 10pm. Cold weather does mean better sleep if you have enough blankets. How was your Xmas, did you have it in the van or with relos or friends?
We always sleep better in cold weather, just wrap up and as you say more blankets, it feels cosy. Sleeping in hot weather is diabolical. I hope and assume you have enough fans there!
Samosa, that's interesting, what do you have that with? Do you have bbq too? It makes sense why people do that given that it's your summer, and I suppose it means you can have outdoor gatherings. I find Christmas so heavily associated with winter and cold that I can't imagine it myself!
Lindt of course is beyond divine. They do vegan Lindt as well now.
We are sadly working over this period, so we're back in the UK now, so in the van but we did have a mock up Christmas Dinner of sorts which turned out pretty well. Next week we are free and then we'll be exploring the UK again in mid January at the latest I expect.
Hope you're enjoying yourself and give Harry a stroke from us both 😁
@@comealongdear I do like a samosa, local supermarket sells frozen ones made in India, a few minutes in the air fryer drizzle on olive oil, lovely. I have them with a vegan cutlet cos I am too lazy to cook anything elaborate. All Lindt Excellence above 75% cocoa is vegan, I just had a few squares of 95%, I thought I was eating 85% but wondered why it was more bitter, a real mans chocolate!😋but it can be too much at times. I have seen the 'vegan' range, it has oat milk to make creamy. It's mild here today, 22c. I think xmas in July is gaining popularity here because of the colder weather ( might be ex-pats).
Harry is upset because I won't let him outside, he isn't strong enough to go another round with that stray and if I can't catch him to give him his heart tablet each day things will get serious. I am off to buy a large foldable pet carrier so he can sit in that outside, I was making him another catio but he won't be happy with that for long I know. Vet showed me on the X-ray he had a fractured back bone that hasn't bothered him but it prob affects his mobility, he was limping 12 months ago so his leg was injured too. He is a worry.
I am looking forward to more travelogues from you two intrepid travellers, you really are quite the bon vivants. Well maybe more with regard to the drink than the food. 😀
Harry keeps coming back in from the front security door and meowing at me to open it, sorry fella. I do hope I dont give in to him.
Living in the van means you dont have to commute to work, the boss can knock on your window for extra work? Availability is a good thing?
Enough waffling, I better sort Harry out.
🍻
Poor Harry! Yes don't give in to him until he's feeling more up to it. He'll need that medication. And a fracture too 😕 It's funny with animals, although you can tell when they're sick sometimes, they often don't show it, dogs are the same. They can't tell you what's wrong but equally they frequently don't whine or show any weakness. It's difficult but the more serious stuff is obvious I suppose and it sounds like he's cared for immensely by yourself, so he's in good hands 😻
Christmas in July 😂 I mean fair enough, it's so associated with winter and I can't imagine such a thing in summer, but although I know you do get snow in some regions, it's not like Australia suddenly turns into Lapland in July is it, so I do wonder if it's worth it. Maybe if you go to one of the mountainous ski resort type places.
When we're at work we are parked up on site in a gated compound, we sleep in the van taking it in turns to do shifts in the building, so it's very handy and there's showers here etc. The shifts are planned well in advance but sometimes we are asked to stay on if the couple taking over from us can't make it for example. It's a good set up, I doubt we'll find anything so convenient again if it ever ends.
Did you see James and Helen from By the Curb, while you were there? It's their favourite place. Stephen looks cute without his whiskers. That place is far too crowded for me. ilona
I've just had to fast forward. Far too noisy. I look forward to the next one.
Merry Christmas Ilona 🥰 Haha no we didn't see them there, but wouldn't have been a surprise if we had, we do love that pair. Now Benidorm is definitely not for everyone (and for us, 2 days is enough) so I forgive you for fast-forwarding 😂 Have a lovely day whatever you're up to! ❤️
@@comealongdear Just eaten a substantial breakfast, mushrooms, pasta, and spinach, now going to the seaside. Have a nice day. xxx
@meanqueensuperscrimper8908 oh your food sounds so perfectly me I could salivate right now if I wasn't worried about my top (also not a great look when you have a beard - maybe I should get rid). Are you seeing anyone today Ilona? I hope it's a nice day either way, going to the seaside sounds ideal. A brisk stroll on Christmas Day feels special somehow. Take care ❤️
@@comealongdear Hello again. I'm back, a lovely day at Cleethorpes. The stroll turned into a brisk walk the whole length of the promenade, there and back, about four miles. I hadn't arranged to meet anyone, but I got talking to several people. I will talk to anybody, usually dog walkers. I am like a roving reporter, asking lots of questions. Now I've got to sort the photo's out.
Lovely stuff, well it sounds marvellous to me, I'd happily be out and about at Christmas and I'm glad you had a fun day. All the best to you Ilona ❤️
Benidorm
The one and only 😁
Benidorm is not España, it is a sunny and warm part of the UK 😀 Good that you have a good time. Always so lovely to see you two. I wish you a very merry Xmas. Best greetings from me in a sunny Andalucía 😀❤️
Hi Mattias! Haha, you're right, it's not quite España as we know it, but it's very good for what it is and a fun place to be 😍 Will you spending Christmas in Andalucía? Lovely to hear from you, Merry Christmas from us both 🥰🎄🥂
😀 yes I will be here, I live here most of the year. Will you be in the UK over the holidays?@@comealongdear
Yes sadly we will be working over Christmas (we are back now, but still 2 more videos from our trip to edit and release) so we'll be pretending Christmas is on New year's eve I think 😂 Have a good one and all the best to you Mattias ❤️🎄
What a difference in Steve without that beard he looks fabulous Dan I think you need to take a leaf out of your husband‘s book and shave that rat off around your face. Steve’s looking pretty good these days babe Benidorm looks fantastic. You guys look like you’re having loads of fun, keep it coming, boys Hope you enjoy Christmas and don’t work too hard.
Jesus Keith, don't hold back will you 😂 You'll be relieved to know both Stephen and I can get bored of things relatively quickly, so I'm sure my beard will follow suit...eventually 😉 For now, I'm afraid the rat is staying - I've even attempted dying it, for fun. Midlife crisis incoming 😂😜 Anyway yes Steve is looking fab and I don't mind him with beard or without (after 15+ years together, you'd hope it wouldn't matter!). Benidorm was wonderful fun, but we needed somewhere quiet after that!
Merry Christmas! 🎄🥂
Good luck to you both. I’m glad things are going well
Never been to Benidorm, didn't even know it existed, but it must be a party town if they have Kopparbergs cider bar mats. 😅 Looks lovely but I bet the heat in summer must be too much. That cat is part of why I don't travel, I get so much angst and concern about strays like that.
The beach looked busy and relaxed, winter must be the time to go there. Looks very American with those high rises. The clear water is a sign of unhealthy water unfortunately, mainy for living organisms in it because it has such a low level of nutrition. What looks pretty, really is bad news to be fair. Apologies for ruining it. 🤫
Really enjoyed seeing the sunny weather AND palm trees! I hope you had a great time, the food looked fantastic and yourselves!
Wishing you a God Jul och Gott Nytt År from Skåne! 🎉🎄🎁🎆♥️
Good Morning! 🌞 The sun has sprung out here through the wintery clouds (we're now back in the UK - of course the sun won't last). I suppose Benidorm is a party town of sorts, but it feels like there's more to it than that, as so many retired, older people come here for the sunshine and the British familiarity. We find it a bit like a theme park - we enjoy embracing it, but wouldn't choose it as a "go to" holiday place or anything.
You're right, I think winter is the time to come, indeed many Brits come here for Christmas. Do the Swedish have a particular place abroad they are known to flock to? It'd be interesting to know!
The heat here in summer would be unbearable - I don't think we'd ever come to Spain then, us pasty English would disintegrate!
Oh now that's very interesting about the water! I honestly didn't know, but it makes perfect sense - a quick google suggests another reason is because the Mediterranean is enclosed so water transferred from one place to another is less frequent obviously than an ocean or open sea. What I'd like to know though, regarding nutrients,is whether that's entirely normal or not - because obviously most of the Med is clear near the coast, as is the Caribbean and other tropical/sub tropical sea water. So although it might lack nutrients, is that just entirely normal or has the clear water only become or made clearer because of humans? On the opposite end, some of Scotland's most remote beaches have crystal clear water and I'd be stunned if they lack nutrients. I guess there's probably a lot of factors, but I'm glad you brought it to my attention, so thank you! Education on a Benidorm video, who'd have thought 😂
Anyway, I hope you're well and good, next week sees something a bit more traditionally Spanish and pretty 😁 Wishing you a God jul och Gott Nytt År too, have a wonderful festive season in Skåne 🥰🎄🥂
@comealongdear I think most Swedes have "traditionally" gone to the Canary Islands and Mallorca, but now many choose Thailand it seems. If I had my pick I'd probably go to Italy. Mainly for the food. 😂 I saw too that the Med is low on nutrients because of low change in water. Maybe the temperature also comes into play. Coral reefs don't do well in high temps and if they go, the micro nutrients disappear as well. Another may be Ph levels, I'm not sure. All I've learned is that crystal waters look nice, but usually are a sign of imbalance. On the opposite is algae-ridden waters that drain the oxygen from it. We learn something every day, even in Benidorm 😂
Don't freeze too much back in Britain and hope you have a lovely Christmas holiday!
Never been to Italy and would love to, so I think I'd be coming with you 😍 We do love the Canaries too, but never been to the Balearics. I think Thailand is extremely popular here too - more expensive flights, but balanced out by the cost when there.
Well, I will certainly never look at crystal clear water in the same way again that's for sure! I'll be looking it up every time we go somewhere now 😂
Not too cold here, though it bordered on 0 yesterday or the day before. Hopefully it's tolerable for you there and the festivities get you through. Take care and have a good one 🥰🎄
Stephen looks sexy without the beard. Enjoying watching you both
Beard or no beard, he definitely is 😁 Thank you and Merry Christmas! ❤️🥂🎄
i wonder if the spanish feel like the brits do who feel their country has been taken over
I think you look so much younger Steve without the beard! 𝓜𝓮𝓻𝓻𝔂 𝓒𝓱𝓻𝓲𝓼𝓽𝓶𝓪𝓼 𝓫𝓸𝔂𝓼 have a fab day ! I should have read the comments! Repeating myself about Steve . The sun of Spain is very inviting! Thanks for sharing. Keep safe xx
Morning Lindsay, haha that's okay, I'm sure he'll be happy to read more comments on it 😄 Think it means I'll never see the beard again though 😂 Thank you, Merry Christmas to you and thanks for sticking with us throughout these videos! 🥰🥂🎄