Gibraltar is a British overseas territory located near the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula, overlooking the Straight of Gibraltar. The name of the territory is derived from the Arabic name Jabal Tariq, which means mountain of Tariq.

All it should take is a quick flight search and before you know it, you could be enjoying a relaxing holiday in the sun.

Traditions and culture in Gibraltar

Gibraltarians are a racial and cultural mix of the many European immigrants who have come to the Rock over the last 300 years. They are the descendants of economic migrants who came to Gibraltar after the majority of the Spanish population left in 1704.

By 1753, Genoese, Maltese, and Portuguese arrivals formed the majority of this new diverse population. Other groups that have contributed to this cultural melting pot are Minorcans - who were forced to leave their homes when their homeland was returned to Spain in 1802 - Sardinians, Sicilians, Germans, the French and the British.

This diverse population pool has led to a very unique cultural fabric in Gibraltar. Andalucian cultural influences are notable but the British imprint remains strong, which should be good news for British holidaymakers.

English is the language of government, education, commerce and the media and many Gibraltarians who pursue higher education tend to go to university in the UK.

The cuisine of Gibraltar reflects the long relationship that has been forged between the Andalucian Spaniards and the British, as well as the many people from various backgrounds who have made Gibraltar their home over the past three centuries.

Notable culinary influences also include those from Malta, Genoa and Portugal. This explosive combination of tastes has given Gibraltar a national cuisine that spans the full spectrum of Mediterranean and British dishes.

Recommended in Gibraltar

The Gibraltar Musuem is a good place to start for those who are unfmilar with the culture and people.

It contains many interesting historical, architectural and military displays including a well-preserved Muslim bathhouse and a copy of a 100,000-year-old female Neanderthal skull that was found on Gibraltar in 1848.

In and around the town centre, visitors can still see old British fortifications, gates and gun emplacements which allow tourists to appreciate the history of the area.

History buffs can also pay a poignant visit to the Trafalgar Cemetery, just south of Southport gate, which accommodates the graves of British sailors who died in Gibraltar after the 1805 Battle of Trafalgar.

For visitors who would rather not trek, there are many car hire companies available where vehicles can be rented at reasonable prices.

Weather in Gibraltar

Gibraltar has a pleasantly comfortable climate throughout the year. Winter temperatures average between 11 degrees C (52 degrees Fahrenheit) and 16 degrees C (61 degrees Fahrenheit).

Summer days usually reach highs of around 27.5 degrees C (82 degrees Fahrenheit) in July and August, but otherwise the temperature skirts around 20 degrees C (68 degrees Fahrenheit).

Destination checklist Gibraltar

The currency in use is the Gilbraltar pound and prices are relatively reasonable. Average prices for meals at the lower end of the quality scale range between £5 and £20.

For rooms, visitors on a reasonably modest budget can expect to pay anything from £15 to £100.

Gibraltar uses the Metric system and it is just one hour ahead of GMT.