Tourists Should Avoid This Dangerous Area When Visiting Spain's Costa Del Sol

Spain has long been one of the world's premier travel destinations, drawing visitors keen to soak up its rich history, alluring culture, delectable cuisine, and laid back Mediterranean vibes. And while this European gem has no shortage of beaches — as found in this underrated town with golden sands and medieval towers — the Costa del Sol has long been a magnet for those who wish to lose themselves amidst its sun-splashed splendor.

earns each letter of its nickname. The region's main settlement is Málaga, a bustling, . While it's generally safe for tourists — like this breathtaking French Alps city that has become one of the nation's most dangerous —  Málaga also sees its fair share of crime. There are parts of town where travelers should exercise caution, so it pays to educate yourself before you go.

Málaga holds a special place in Spain's collective imagination. Not only is it famous for its beautiful beaches and the old Moorish fortress known as La Alcazaba, . there are still a few neighborhoods that — while not no-go zones — are known for drug activity and petty crime.

 Situated along the west bank of the Guadalmedina River that runs through the city, a lot of public housing was constructed in Palma-Palmilla in the 1960s. The expansive neighborhood is home to the Estadio de Rosaleda (the home field of the Málaga FC soccer team) as well as the Diario Sur newspaper. Unfortunately, District 5 is also known for having one of the highest crime rates in all of Málaga.

While Palma-Palmilla does enjoy an unsavory reputation, and . If you do travel there — perhaps to enjoy a soccer game or c — just show respect to the locals, don't flash money, and leave your expensive watches and jewelry in the hotel safe.

Even though Málaga deals with some of the ills that affect other parts of Europe (drug dealing, pickpockets), it's by and large a very safe city with not just a steady stream of international visitors, . Its perfect coastal location makes it well worth exploring.

While you're in town, make sure to dive into a bit of its Moorish history with a visit to the — . You also can't visit Málaga without paying respects to its favorite son at the

For great food and deep local flavor, head to the which is not only an architectural triumph, but also offers up fresh fruits, vegetables, meat, cheeses, and other products, along with stalls selling ready-to-eat dishes at prices that can't be matched anywhere else in town. And when it comes time to chill out on the water, For more of southern Spain's goodness, check out this undiscovered beauty of a town.