Michelle and Sasha Obama arrive in Marbella
Since arriving on the Costa del Sol on Wednesday, America ’s First Lady, Michelle Obama, and daughter Sasha have been making the most of their time in Marbella .
The Obamas have certainly been sampling the best of Marbella since their arrival on Wednesday 4 August. After touching down at Malaga airport and being driven to the luxurious Villa Padierna, Michelle and Sasha had lunch and spent some time with the hotel’s owners Ricardo Arranz and Alicia Villapadierna, who offered them an array of gifts which included a flamenco dress, a hand-painted fan, a set of books on Picasso and an award-winning engraving, compliments of Marbella Town Hall.
Uptown girls
That evening, Michelle and Sasha visited the Casco Antiguo, Marbella ’s old quarter. The pair, escorted by a large number of bodyguards, enjoyed a relaxed stroll along the quaint cobbled streets, gazing through the shop windows and taking in the charm and tranquillity of the area.
After Mrs Obama purchased two white summer dresses – one for herself and the other for her daughter – the owner of the shop told the press: “She was extremely charming and told us how much she loved Marbella .” Later, they enjoyed dinner at the Buenaventura restaurant, close to the Plaza de La Encarnación.
During their stay, an estimated 70 secret service agents and 250 national police officers will ensure the safety of the Obamas, allowing them to relax and spend a peaceful holiday here in Spain .
Sight seeing
On Thursday, the pair travelled to Granada to spend a few hours marvelling at the stunning Alhambra Palace , Al Baycin and the Cathedral before heading back to the Costa del Sol .
Today (Friday) they’re expected to spend some time unwinding by the pool in the beautiful gardens of the Villa Padierna Hotel as well as taking advantage of its exquisite spa and sports facilities.
This weekend, Michelle Obama will be visiting the picturesque inland town of Ronda , made famous by American writer, Ernest Hemingway. There’s also much speculation that the Obamas will attend the Starlite Gala – a glitzy charity event which will take place at the Villa Padierna and will be hosted by international stars of TV and film, Eva Longoria and Malaga ’s very own Antonio Banderas.
On Sunday Michelle and Sasha will wrap up their holiday in Marbella and jet to Mallorca where they will meet King Juan Carlos and Queen Sofia of Spain .
Good for business
It’s hoped that the Obama’s visit will dramatically increase the popularity of Marbella and give its tourism and real estate sectors a much-needed boost.
José Luis Hernández, Marbella ‘s councillor of Tourism, states, ” Marbella is more than accustomed to receiving dignitaries and celebrities. Mrs. Obama did not have any particular requests, and we are happy to show the world that she can relax and soak up the ambience of Marbella and Andalucia, while life goes on as normal around her. ”
