Translated, Costa de la Luz literally means the Coast of Light.

And, in every way, it is just that.

To give you some sense of location, Costa de la Luz rambles over umpteen square miles of unspoiled sands, shrubs and protected forests on the outer reaches of Andalusia.

It is separated from its next-door neighbour Portugal by a broad sweep of river that spills into the Atlantic Ocean.

But if you are looking for a quality holiday destination that definitely does not do tea like your mamma used to make - and you really want to immerse yourself in total Spanish localness - then this is it!

Thomson Holidays, which is leading the vanguard of first-time British tourists, believe, with some justification, that discerning couples and families will enjoy the gentle ambience and unhurried style of this laid-back region.

Surprisingly though, they have balanced the launch of the new resort at Isla Canela - linked to the mainland by a series of wide road bridges - with a hotel that was built 10 years ago and a cluster of others that are still relatively new with an almost Disney-like quality.

Personally, I was delighted I had plumped for the oldest and certainly the most comfortable property, the Hotel Riu Canela.

Taking pride of place on the seafront, its rooms and shaded balconies offered a perfect refuge from the laser heat.

And when I managed to prise myself away from the hotel, full of adventurer's spirit, I really did explore.

Ayamonte, for example, is a compact, whitewashed fishing town, just a 20-minute free bus ride away.

And it's here you savour the very real Spain.

Narrow streets.

Colourful sunshades built at roof top level.

Thronged shops selling fine leather coats and bags, beautifully crafted jewellery, shoes and superb wines.

Foodies will love the tiny tapas bars, clinging to the edge of flower-filled squares, offered dishes starting from just £1 50p.

Make sure you try the famous locally-cured ham washed down with an icy glass of white wine - a gourmet lunchtime snack.

The town is an ideal jumping off spot to visit Huelva and Seville.

Both places are ideal for day trips and I was glad I was travelling by local, air-conditioned coach which is cheaper than hiring a car.

Seville is an absolute nightmare for parking and the roads signs are baffling.

And please tell me in the UK where you can eat freshly caught anchovies and a dish of squid in a bus station diner?

Even more interesting is a quick flip by ferry, costing just £1.40p return, to Portugal's Algarve, 15 minutes across the Guadiana River.

Here, in Villa Real de Santo Antonio, you are immediately struck by the distinct difference in culture and architecture, but, of course, as both country's are in Euroland, there was no problem when it comes to currency.

l Holidaymakers received a letter from their tour operator in advance warning that an apartment block was being built alongside the Hotel Riu Canela.

It is worth checking on building progress before you book - although the building work did not cause any annoyance during my stay.

If you are planning to visit a beach bar at night, do ensure you are well protected.

Sand flies the size of a cruise missile can leave nasty bites!