Wanderlust World Wanderlust World Obtain your travel documents. If you are from a Schengen country, you do not need a visa. And unless staying longer than 90 days in the country, citizens of the U.S., Australia, Canada, Israel, New Zealand and Japan need no visa when visiting. Citizens of all other countries must obtain a visa.
Save up. Like other resort towns in Spain, Rota is not a cheap travel destination. Even a budget traveler staying in youth hostels and subsisting on snack food should plan to spend at least $50 per day.
Book your accommodation. Rota has a range of lodging options, from camping sites to deluxe hotels and resorts, although the vast majority of tourists here end up in the latter. Be sure to book well in advance if you are visiting during high season (June-August) or shoulder seasons (May and September).
Bring sunscreen. Rota's golden beaches are considered to be some of Spain's finest, and visitors will find it hard to resist at least a few hours under the Spanish sun here. The main beach in Rota is a long sweep of sand curving from the historic old town to the Piedras Gordas (Big Rocks). Other inviting beaches around Rota include Rompidillo, Costilla and Punta Candor.
Plan to sightsee beyond the shore. Aside from sandy beaches, Rota has little to draw tourists from Spain's more prominent sites. But if you are planning to spend time in Rota, there are plenty of local sites and flavors to digest. For instance, visitors can check out the 13th century Castillo de Luna, the 16th century Iglesia de la O and the old fortress walls surrounding the city. Also, be sure to top off a hearty Spanish meal in one of its hundreds of bars and restaurants along the promenade with a glass of tintilla, the local wine.
Get there. If you aren't arriving aboard a US naval ship, you will probably come by air. The new international airport at Jerez de la Frontera is only 15 miles away. Jerez receives mainly flights from Madrid but also a few from the U.K., as well as occasional charter flights. Upon arrival, visitors can either take a short trip on a local bus or opt for reasonably priced car rental. Many midrange and luxury hotels and resorts woffer pickup service from the airport. If you are arriving from anywhere else in Spain, bus and train trips span the country as the cheapest option, with latter being slightly more expensive and comfortable.