If you haven't visited Spain before, you'll soon notice that the Spanish eating habits are completely different from most of the rest of Europe, particularly those countries in the north. Eating hours are more loosely defined and restaurants are open longer hours. .

Breakfast (el desayuno) in Almuñécar and La Herradura begins for the town's workers when the cafeterias open around 7.30-8.00 hr. Those catering more for tourists may not open until around 9.00 hr. This meal usually consists of fresh orange juice, coffee or tea, and toast with jam. The cooked English-style breakfast is normally not available. Office workers who start early will stop for half an hour at 10.00 hr or 10.30 hr for their breakfast. This is a good time not to visit their office, because they're likely to be in front of a cafe bar instead of behind their desk.

Instead of the continental-style toast served with butter and jam, you'll see many people putting either olive oil or a puréed mix of fresh tomatoes, oil and garlic on their bread. This can take a little getting used to first thing in the morning, but it's a healthy way to start the day.

For something completely different, you can try the local churros. These are deep fried, sausage-shaped fritters which, when prepared correctly, are delicious. They are normally eaten with a little sugar sprinkled on top and are good for dunking in your coffee or, more traditionally, in a thick hot chocolate drink.

Lunch (el almuerzo) for the locals never starts before 14.00 hr and it's usually not before 15.00 hr that you'll see the restaurants fill up and everyone sat down to eat. Meals are served until around 16.00-17.00 hr depending on the season. Some establishments catering largely to foreigners will serve lunch earlier, from around 13.00 hr.

Tea time, or la merienda, can be equated to elevenses in the afternoon, for it's when the Spanish generally stop for a coffee and a snack, usually a pastry of some sort. This may be any time between 17.00-19.00hrs.

Dinner (la cena) is as extended as lunch, starting around 20.00 hr and continuing until midnight or later in the high season. When there are less people around, most places close their kitchens around 22.30-23.00 hr, but there's no fixed rule.