"The Rock!" Gibraltar by Ujamaflip

Gibraltar is a narrow peninsula stuck to the end of the Iberian Peninsula, a small mountain towards the southern tip of Spain. When you approach Gibraltar, whether it be by air, sea or road, you are struck by its stature, the rock towering majestically, and isolated from the flat landscape.

The position of Gibraltar is very important. Bordering on the Strait of Gibraltar it marks the point where the Mediterranean Sea meets the Atlantic Ocean. Strategically this is very important, and the reason for Britain's capture and defence of the Rock. Since the Rock was ceded to Britain by Spain in the 1713 Treaty of Utrecht it has been a bone of contention between the two nations. Several invasions where mounted on Gibraltar, and the border between Gibraltar and Spain was closed from 1969 to 1985. In 1967 Gibraltarians voted by 12,138 to 44 in favor of British rather than Spanish sovereignty, and its own domestic government was formed. A similar referendum was held in 2002, where 98.97% of the population voted against shared sovereignty.

Needless to say, Gibraltar remains under British Sovereignty, and the dispute with Spain continues.

Despite becoming a member of the European Union when Britain joined in 1973, Gibraltar has managed to retain certain exceptions such as relief of Value Added Tax, and the Common Customs Tariff.

For companies and banking there are many tax breaks available. Many online casino's are operated from Gibraltar to take advantage of this.

Additionally, tourists (and residents) can benifit from this. Gibraltar has incredibly cheap Alcohol, Cigarettes, Fuel, and other goods.

St. Michaels Cave

Due to the unique geological makeup of the Rock, Gibraltar is riddled with caves. Over 140 caves have been discovered so far within the rock, many of which have been used for defense works and arsenals, mostly concealed, and a tunnel bisecting the rock from east to west. One of the largest caves within the Rock is St. Michaels cave. As a natural auditorium this cave is used for regular concerts and events.

Outside and above the Rock you have the rare opportunity to see semi-wild primates up close. Barbary Apes roam freely, and can be seen going about their business around the upper portion of the Rock. These apes are the only free-living apes in Europe today.

• Pros:Interesting Location, Cheap Booze, Nice Weather
• Cons:A bit like a cheap British holiday resort
• In a nutshell:A little bit of Britain by the Med!