Exploring Spain in April, May, June...

Hello All.. My name is John. Were Dutch but live in FL, USA. Last year my wife (Marianne) and I were touring Europe. We liked Italy and Spain a lot but want to really explore Spain this year. This is what we were thinking of doing... 
Arrive in Barcelona and drive towards the South. First stop in Allicante area for a few days then on to the Malaga area.
Goal is to see what area is fun to rent for few months (2 - 3).
We are looking for an authentic Spanish area with a fun atmosphere.. bars.. restaurants.. shops..  as close to the beach as possible. (for example, we liked Lloret de Mar area near the beach, but prefer to go south). Questions:
1. What is considered "Long Term" rent... would 2 months qualify..? 3 Months..?
2. For those that know the entire Malaga area.. which of the province do you like best... and WHY..?
Thank you very much for your feedback.
John van Vliet..  ID: skimmerjv  
 

Nothing wrong with your plan, but you have missed out Almeria.   The city of Almeria is really well worth a stop off.   It is right on the coast, very, very Spanish and has a famous Tapas trail.    Stay somewhere like the Hotel Catedral - in the Cathedral square and you are a stones throw from the Alcazaba.    It is a small city, but would be a really interesting stop over en route to Malaga.

Enjoy yourself where ever you end up!!  

You cannot go that route without spending some time in Valencia - it's got everything and very Spanish, far more so than Barcelona.  You should also stop off at Mazarron - the most amazing stretch of beaches in all of Spain, with resorts to suit all tastes. 

John:

I am answering some of your questions below in bold green ( same text as your email): 

1. What is considered "Long Term" rent... would 2 months qualify..? 3 Months..? There is no time criteria for difference between long term and short term. Weird as it sounds. A short term rental is that which explicitly says it is a seasonal contract. A vivienda contract has an special regulation to protect your continued stay with your family.

These posts may be of interest for you:

http://www.eyeonspain.com/blogs/costaluz/2467/legal-tip-171-11-months-can-be-a-permanent-rental-contract.aspx

Hola:

have you thought about traveling to western coast-Vejer is a typical Andalusian white village, 10 min away from the sea by car. Definitely you will not regret it!

Saludos

________________

La Lengua, UK