Gibraltar is the perfect city destination for many UK travellers as the area itself is still an overseas territory of the United Kingdom.

Located at the entrance of the Mediterranean in the south of Spain, the Strait of Gibraltar links the Atlantic Ocean with the Mediterranean Sea.

The city has been an instrumental base for the British Armed Forces since the 18th century and as such means the area itself has been relatively untouched by destruction.

One of the most densely populated territories in the world Gibraltar has a non-forgiving environment. A Mediterranean climate means hot summer and mild winters and for tourists that means plenty of water and shade.

Gibraltar itself is separated into seven residential areas the east side, north district, reclamation areas, sandpits area, south district, town area and upper town.

Exploring the region is relatively simple if you hire a vehicle, with the most spectacular site the 426-metre high Rock of Gibraltar. The rock is a monolithic Jurassic limestone promontory. It was created when a tectonic plate collided with Europe around 55 million years ago. The rock covers a land area of around six square kilometres and the African coast can be seen on a clear day.

Underneath the rock is a system of tunnels call the Great Siege Tunnels. These were made by the British in 1782 during a fight with the Spanish. They were also used in World War Two. They were fortified and around 30,000 British soldiers, sailors and airmen were on the Rock during this time.

Another impressive landmark is the King Fahd ben Abdelaziz Al Saaud Mosque, located at Europa Point. This is the most southerly part of the city.

Those explorers seeking culture in this area will not be starved. The atmosphere of the region reflects the diversity and heritage of Gibraltar's people. There are British influences to be sure, but living alongside these are Genoese, Maltese, Portuguese, German and Hindu's.

Most residents will speak Llanito but will also know English making conversing easy for tourists wanting to sample some local cuisine.

One event not worth missing is the National Day of Gibraltar celebrated on September 10th. Everyone dresses in the national colours of Red and White and congregates in the main square. Then 30,000 red and white balloons are released to mark the occasion and this is followed by an evening of music, dance and festivities.

One aspect for tourists to watch out for however is transport. Transport to the area is relatively simple by car although long delays can be experienced at the Spanish border. Gibraltar has a large car population with as many vehicles as there are people. Despite its British heritage drivers still drive on the right because of the shared border with Spain.

Because of tension with Spain over control of the area, the Spanish government have banned ferry and air services to Gibraltar and often routinely search vehicles in the middle of the road crossing into the British area. Apart from the transport difficulties visiting Gibraltar can be a culturally enriching experience.