From the news wires

Michelle Obama visits Marbella, Spain with daughter Sasha

Michelle Obama and daughter Sasha arrived Wednesday for a visit to Granada and Marbella, Spain. Michelle Obama is to meet with King Juan Carlos and Queen Sofia Sunday at their summer residence on Mallorca.

Sergio Torres/AP

First Lady Michelle Obama smiles while she visits Marbella, southern Spain, Wednesday, Aug. 4. The White House says first lady Michelle Obama is in Spain for a private trip with longtime family friends.

By Associated Press

Aug. 06, 2010, 9:52 a.m. ET | Estepona, Spain

Spanish police have cleared off a stretch of beach for U.S. first lady Michelle Obama and daughter Sasha to relax by the Mediterranean after a busy day of sightseeing.

Police used palm trees Friday to mark off the boundaries of a 100-meter (100-yard) expanse for the American delegation. On either side, onlookers gawked.

As the first lady rested inside a canvas hut by the shore, her 9-year-old daughter splashed around in the sea and a security guard swam with her.

The Obamas arrived Wednesday for a five-day private stay, although Mrs. Obama is to meet with King Juan Carlos and Queen Sofia Sunday at their summer residence on Mallorca.

On Thursday they toured Granada, taking in the Alhambra palace and the city's cathedral and watching a flamenco show.

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