Europe

Explore Marbella on a Budget, Marbella is known for being a hub when it comes to glamour and excess but that doesn’t mean you can’t experience luxury for less.

With this in mind, we’ve put together the ultimate guide to exploring Marbella on a budget.

When to go for the best deals to Explore Marbella on a Budget

The time of year can affect the price of your holiday significantly and so if you want to get the best deal, a bit of careful planning is in order.

One way to save money on your Marbella holiday is to avoid peak travel times.

Flight and accommodation prices sky rocket around the months of July and August, not to mention the Easter holidays.

The sunny climate boasts 320 days of sunshine each year, so you can visit in the cheaper months of June and September without compromising on the beautiful weather.

Where to Stay in Marbella on a Budget?

Accommodation is a cost that you can’t avoid, but that doesn’t mean you have to pay over and above to stay in Marbella.

The great thing about this luxurious hot spot is that despite the glamorous reputation, there is truly an option for every budget – from affordable hostels to budget friendly self-catering villas, there is something for everyone.

If you are travelling in a large group, a private villa may be the most cost-effective option as you can divide the cost of the accommodation evenly between you.

The larger the group, the bigger the saving.

If you are happy to cook for yourself, you can make huge savings by stocking up on pocket friendly ingredients from the local supermarket, rather than spending money on eating meals out.

If you are a solo traveler, you may want to consider a hostel with kitchen facilities as this will work out far cheaper than a hotel, and you can choose to save money by cooking for yourself throughout your trip.

You might be lucky and score a night at a hostel that is only steps away from the beach.

The best money saving option will depend both on your group size and your personal preference.

A top tip – just by changing the dates of your stay to the shoulder months, rather than July – September, you can save more than half the price on accommodation!

For example, you can get a beachfront private villa that sleeps 4 people, for £34 a night in April.

In August, this same apartment gets bumped up to £83 a night!

Things to Do on a Budget in Marbella

Experiencing all that Marbella has to offer doesn’t come cheap, especially with entry fees for most nightclubs sitting at around the €20 mark.

However, there are plenty of ways to save money while enjoying this town to the full.

Marbella is home to some extraordinary beaches (23 in total) that don’t cost a penny to explore.

Although, a sun lounger and an umbrella on the Golden Mile will set you back around €6 per day.

Why not go for a stroll around the city? Head to the charming Old Town and see the sights.

Explore the side streets and you will find row upon row of unique boutiques, so why not take some time out to window shop with friends?

No visit to Marbella is complete without a trip to Alameda Park where you can while away the hours, people watching as you stroll through the grounds without spending a penny – only stopping to marvel at the spectacular fountain.

Sightseeing is an affordable way to keep the cost down during your trip, so why not explore the nearby town of San Pedro de Alcantara?

If it’s art you’re after, there are a number of free art galleries to explore including The Municipal Exposition Gallery, The Bonsai Museum and the Casa Grande.

However, you don’t have to visit an art gallery to soak up the culture.

You can see a plethora of street art – as well as multiple statues by Salvador Dali – on the Avenida del Mar.

If you do want to spend the day at a luxury beach club, Plaza Beach is by far the most affordable with beds available from €20 which is a lot cheaper that the €100 price tag that Ocean Club offer.

Pocket Friendly Places to Eat in Marbella

Eating in fancy restaurants can quickly demolish your holiday budget so try to opt for restaurants and cafes that are located off the seafront.

One way to save money on food is to seek out restaurants that locals flock to as opposed to tourist hotspots.

For the cheapest eats, head to the Old Town.

Here you will find excellent tapas and Spanish cuisine that won’t make your eyes water when you get the bill.

La Taberna del Pintxo is a popular choice for its unique ordering options.

Waiters walk around with trays of small bites, each one with a price tag – a novel way of monitoring your spending.

Although it’s not always advertised, a three-course ‘menú del dia’ (menu of the day) is offered in most cafés and restaurants for lunch.

So be sure to ask the waiter for it! You’ll be able to bag a three-course meal – usually with a drink – for under €15!

Budget Friendly Marbella Nightlife

Marbella is a party town and if you want to mingle with the A-Listers, you will have to pay for the privilege.

Yes, going to a nightclub isn’t cheap but a night on the tiles doesn’t have to break the bank.

One great way to save money is to visit your local supermarket and stock up on spirits to drink in your villa or hostel before you go out.

If you are prepared to go out early, many nightclubs including Tibu offer free entry for guests that arrive before a certain time.

Some bars in Puerto Banus have no entry fee, such as Linekers.

So, there you have it, if you are travelling to Marbella on a budget, these tips will help you to make your money go further.

La Manga Spain Be a Good Sport

La Manga is a major sports and leisure resort town on the coast of Murcia, eastern Spain.

From golf to go-karting, stuffing yourself with tapas, or simply lounging on the beach, there’s something for everything in this coastal town.

Sporty types should be sure to check out La Manga Club.

Golf, cricket, football, rugby, and tennis are all popular activities here, and there are classes for adults and children alike.

Golfers will particularly enjoy the club’s three, 18-hole golf courses.

The club also offers extensive spa services – perfect if you’ve overdone it on the field!

 Catch a Wave

Given La Manga’s coastal location and its temperate Mediterranean climate, water sports are extremely popular here, which include sailing, kite boarding, windsurfing, kayaking, and jet skiing. Go Skiing in Andorra

Most resorts offer rentals, as do many companies located along La Manga strip.

La Manga Del Mar Menor, or the Little Sea, is actually a huge saltwater lake that runs along the length of La Manga strip.

Its waters are also reputed to have healing properties, and staying at a nearby resort is the best option for visitors seeking relaxation and recovery.

Go Fish

Divers can enjoy spotting tropical fish, and many dive companies also offer snorkeling and wildlife tours.

Fishing expeditions can also be chartered through your resort or through operators located on the strip.

With 300 days of sun a year, Murcia is known for its beautiful beaches, and they make for great day trips out from a resort.

Get Festive

Check the calendar to see if there are any holidays or fiestas scheduled – these processions and parades are not to be missed.

Shopping in a local market is a fun way to practice your Spanish, but remember that they are usually only open in the morning.

There are also several musical festivals throughout the year.

Dine Out

There are many excellent options for dining out in La Manga, and the marina area has a high concentration of restaurants – the short walk out to the marina is usually pleasant and balmy.

Stopping at a cocktail bar before or after dinner and enjoying the fiery sunset over the Mediterranean is highly encouraged.

From sports to spas, La Manga is a great place for kicking back.

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Things To Do In Scotland – With over 20 million visitors per year, Scotland is a popular destination with visitors from all around the world, and with so many things to do in Scotland it comes as no surprise.

The capital city of Edinburgh is the most visited city in the UK outside of London.

With such a small country having such a vast number of visitors each year, it can be hard to escape the tourist trail and experience Scotland off the beaten track.

As both a local girl, and a travel writer, I thought it would be useful to combine my knowledge of my home country and experiences as a traveler, and give you my top things to do in Scotland. England Travel Guide

Things To Do In Scotland

Visit Stirling Castle

Every year, thousands of tourists visit Edinburgh Castle, and from the outside it is really a stunning sight, but trust me when I say the 14 GBP entry fee is really not worth it!

The inside of Edinburgh Castle is mediocre at best, and the fact that you can gain free and/or cheap entry to most of Scotland’s other more beautiful castles is as good a reason as any to venture elsewhere.

Stirling Castle is only 31 miles from Edinburgh city center, and is simply stunning!

Remains were also found in Stirling Castle recently of an old Scottish Knight, and the Castle continues to provide much of an insight in the history of Scotland.

Go Skiing in the Cairngorms

Scotland is by no means a warm and sunny country!

In most cases this would be a huge downside, but what it does provide is some great opportunities during winter to do some skiing in the Cairngorm Mountains, and National Park.

Aside from just being a beautiful place to visit in the Scottish Highlands, and situated near to the picturesque town of Aviemore, the Cairngorm mountains also offer some black slopes for some of the most experienced skiers.

Eat some mince ‘n’ tatties!

One of the popular things to do in Scotland is to try out some local Haggis.

Internationally it is the one dish signified with Scottish culture, but in reality, most local people only eat Haggis on Burns Night (Robert Burns Night) or on a special occasion.

If you want to try a dish that Scottish people eat regularly then try some traditional mince ‘n’ tatties! Mince ‘n’ tatties is a dish that families in Scotland have eaten for hundreds of years.

It’s basically just mince, potatoes (tatties), and gravy all mashed up.

It may be basic, but I literally don’t know any Scottish people (apart from vegetarians) who don’t have this in their top 3 meals of all time!

It’s the kind of thing your granny or mum would serve you!

Visit the Tunnocks chocolate factory

Tunnocks is a company that has been around in Scotland since before war time, and I can honestly say they produce the best biscuits/cakes in the world!

Tunnocks tea cakes in particular are simply yum, and the wafer biscuits are also good too!

They are unique to Scotland, with one large chocolate factory based near Glasgow.

Waiting lists to get a tour of the chocolate factory are over a year long, so its unlikely you will get to do the tour if you are only here for a little while, but most shops in Scotland sell the biscuits so be sure to give them a try!

Drink some Irn Bru!

Like Tunnocks, Barr’s Irn Bru has been around in Scotland for over 50 years!

For those who don’t know, Irn Bru is the only soft drink (except from a beverage in Mexico) which outsells both Coke and Pepsi in its homeland.

It’s something which is very unique to Scotland, and is regarded as Scotland’s national (non-alcoholic) drink.

Most locals love it, and most tourists hate it, but it’s something I definitely recommend you try, and that is unique to Scotland.

Visit the Isle of Skye

One of the things to do in Scotland that just can’t be missed are the Scottish Highlands.

You can’t come to Scotland and not take in the breathtaking scenery of the Scottish Highlands.

In particular, my favorite area of Scotland and offering some of the most beautiful scenery is the Isle of Skye.

To describe Skye would be an injustice to its beauty. The best thing I could say is just to see it for yourself.

Places to Visit in Scotland

Just a hop, skip and a jump from Bristol, after a night at one of the many Bristol Airport hotels and you will find yourself in Edinburgh to start your journey through some of the best places to visit in Scotland.

Here is a list of 10 awesome places to visit in Scotland:

One of the many cathedrals and chapels of Edinburgh, particularly Rosslyn Chapel, made famous, perhaps mostly by The Da Vinci Code novel.

The Abbey and Palace of Holyroodhouse, a royal residence that is host to the Queen’s Gallery which contains art from the Royal collection.

One of the top places to visit in Scotland for nature lovers is to walk up Arthur’s Seat, an extinct volcano that offers a incredible panorama of the city from the summit.

When it comes to festivals, one of the very best places to visit in Scotland is Edinburgh, especially in the summer.

Home to over ten festivals during the summer, including the Fringe Festival, the International Festival, the Military Tattoo, and the Edinburgh International Film Festival to name just a few, Edinburgh is often called the city of festivals.

The Tall Ship, or the Glenlee, which was built in 1896 and is one of the only five Clydebuilt sailing ships left in the world that are afloat and restored.

It is now berthed at the Riverside museum which is part of Scotland’s Museum of Transport and Travel.

You can explore the Tall Ship and of course the museum as well.

If you love animals and zoos, you’ll love visiting places like the Edinburgh Zoo, particularly to watch the Penguin parade.

Take a walk along the Glasgow Green which was founded in 1450 by a royal grant and is home to Nelson’s Memorial, The Peoples Palace and The Doulton Fountain which is the largest terracotta fountain in the world.

If you want several places to visit in Scotland in a short period of time, take a ride on the West Highland Railway, where you can go from Glasgow to Crianlarch and back.

One of the most beautiful train rides in the world, you’ll see castles and meadows and the River Cylde, you’ll pass under Erskine Bridge.

The train ride also takes you past Loch Lomond and Locklong.

A short day-trip from Glasgow, the Isle of Arran is often considered to be Scotland in Miniature and allows you to enjoy gardens, Brodick Bay, a castle and a variety of archaeological artifacts that are around the island.

This is one of the best places to visit in Scotland if you want to experience the essence of the country.

Visit the city of Stirling which is considered the spiritual home of Braveheart, you’ll also want to check out the castle while you are there.

To make your return trip easier and less stressful, stay at one of the Edinburgh Airport hotels and get a good rest the last night before an early morning flight, but if you’re sleeping at one of the Glasgow Airport hotels  be sure to call ahead to ensure your reservation is completed correctly.

Quick Guide To Inverness, Uk

Known as the capital of the Scottish Highlands, Inverness is a lively city which has much to offer visitors and makes the perfect destination for a short break.

The city has a real ‘buzz’ about it with fabulous places to eat and drink, excellent shopping opportunities and a real sense of history.

Attractions in Inverness

Inverness Castle is a stunning building, which today functions as the Sheriff Court.

The sandstone structure was built in 1847, replacing an earlier building which was destroyed by the Jacobites in 1746.

Inverness Museum and Art Gallery has a wide range of exhibits including wildlife, Pictish stones and a display of weaponry.

Places to Visit

Inverness makes an excellent base for those who want to explore the Highlands as some of Scotland’s most spectacular landscape is within easy reach.

Don’t forget that no visit to the Scottish Highlands would be complete without an excursion to Loch Ness to search for ‘Nessie’ the Loch Ness Monster!

Restaurants and Night Life

Kitchen provides good quality, locally sourced food in stunning surroundings: the glass-fronted building has spectacular views over the river.

The Castle Tavern has a good selection of real ales and an outdoor terrace.

G’s is a popular nightclub with a 3 am licence, playing commercial tunes on Friday and Saturday nights.

Accommodation

There is no sign of the twee tartan décor once synonymous with Highland hotels in the Rocpool Reserve Hotel, where rooms are named Hip, Chic, Decadent or Extra Decadent and come with their own coffee machines and hot tubs.

A previous winner of the title of Top Boutique Hotel at Scottish Hotel of the Year Awards, the Rocpool doesn’t come cheap, but is well worth splashing out on for a real treat.

Those on a budget may want to investigate the Premier Inn, which is central and provides excellent value for money.

Getting To Scotland

Inverness airport is 8 miles east of Inverness, with excellent transport links into the city center.

The airport serves the main UK airports and an expanding number of international airports.

Flights from Inverness to Gatwick leave regularly making Inverness a convenient destination for those travelling from the South of England.

There is also a train station in the city center, with direct services to Edinburgh, Glasgow and London from the south and Aberdeen from the east.

It’s also worth checking out the bus operators CityLink, Megabus, National Express and Stagecoach Bluebird that also do routes in and around Inverness.

Take a Tour of Bristol, UK’s Most Beautiful Churches

Getting in touch with the history of a city is often times easiest when viewed through a stained glass window – if you’re looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of the High Street, then take a tour of Bristol, UK’s most ancient and awe inspiring churches …

Bristol, UK St Mary Redcliffe Church

Described by Queen Elizabeth I as ‘The fairest, goodliest, and most famous parish church in England’, the gothic splendor of St Mary Redcliffe Church cannot be over stated.

The first church on this site was likely constructed during Saxon times, when Bristol first became a strategic port city.

As its name might suggest, the church is situated atop a red cliff above the River Avon.

In medieval times, its towering presence was a comfort to seafarers who said prayers to the Virgin Mary upon departure and gave thanks upon their safe return.

The present building is likely the fourth or fifth church that has been built on this site, and parts of the existing church date back to the early 12th century.

Temple Church

Unfortunately this once beautiful church (with a rather colorful past) was heavily bombed during World War II.

The ruins of Temple Church now stand in rather stark contrast the surrounding contemporary architecture.

However, Temple Church is probably best known for hosting the sensational 1778 exorcism of George Lukins, who was said to be possessed by 7 demons.

Nonetheless, a walk among the remaining walls allows visitors to take step back in time to the world of the Knights Templar who founded the church in the mid 12th century.

Bristol Cathedral

Open tours are given on Saturdays for those interested to learn a bit more of the history of Bristol Cathedral, which dates back to 1148 when Robert Fitzhardinge founded it as the Abbey of St. Augustine.

The impressive cathedral is most certainly worth a visit, if for no other reason than to hear its beautiful organ, originally built in 1685.

Pop in on any Tuesday during term time for a free lunchtime recital and a chance to hear the stunning acoustics of this grand Cathedral.

St James Priory

It was illegitimate grandson of William the Conqueror, Robert Fitzroy, who founded the Priory of St James in 1129.

Local legend has it that every 10th stone brought from Normandy to build the great Norman castle was set aside to build the Priory, making it Bristol’s oldest building still in use today.

This modest priory has continuously served as a place of worship for nearly 900 years.

Church of England Mortuary Chapel

Located in the idyllic Arnos Vale Cemetery, this Grade II listed neoclassical chapel is certainly a peaceful place of rest on the cemetery grounds.

While wandering among graves may not be everyone’s cup of tea, this gorgeous green expanse just outside of Bristol is a favorite among dog walkers, ramblers and history buffs alike.

While you’re strolling past the many graves in a state of picturesque disrepair, don’t miss the opulent Tomb of Raja Rammohun Roy.

And if you’re looking for a hotel in Bristol this winter, consider a stay at the Holiday Inn Bristol Filton hotel for a convenient, great value accommodation option.

Scotland – Moody Weather & Amazing Scottish People

We knew Scotland would be beautiful even before we stepped off the plane – just from what we saw 2000 ft in the air was enough to know that this spontaneous trip would give us experiences of a lifetime.

We decided to leave the backpacks behind this time and travel with roller bags instead, just to see how we felt about it.

We don’t like to see ourselves getting comfortable with only one way of travel, but want to try out different styles all the time.

Although we have been traveling mostly in a backpacker way I wouldn’t mind experiencing a bit more of that luxury travel style, and although we are not the typical hikers we don’t mind trying that out either.

The only thing is that we are just never prepared for it – although we have become better over the years, like don’t go hiking in flip flops in the Austrian Alps anymore, we still looked like the odd ones out, and in Scotland, once again we were not prepared …

The Moody Weather

I have never seen such a moody weather anywhere else in the world.

The weather can change from sunny to rainy, windy to calm, freezing to warm – in a matter of hours!

Sometimes it seemed as though it did all that at the same time, and without any rain gear things got a little complicated… but I guess it’s the weather that has contributed to the amazing nature in Scotland.

The Amazing Nature

The scenery in Scotland is simply breathtaking – the highlands is a dream landscape, with mountains, lochs and glens, and the vibrant autumn colors just made it even better.

The grey stone cottages along the roads just enhanced the scenery – these cottages were built for sitting in front of the fire, sipping tea and dipping short bread all day, the perfect situation for cozy Autumn luxury holidays – but the one thing that struck me the most about Scotland, what changed my whole perspective on things – were the people we meet.

The Friendly People

I always used to believe that the way the people acted was a reflection on how the weather was – the people from northern Europe like Scandinavia are in general very quiet people whom are difficult to get to know.

You won’t see them start conversations on the bus stop or street with strangers, you will notice that they prefer having an empty seat next to them on the bus etc.

During summertime, that changes a little, and the people become more outgoing.

So I used to think that it had to do with the weather.

But when I arrived in Scotland, I was proven to be terribly wrong – Scotland has the strangest weather in the world, mostly quite miserable – yet the people are among the warmest and friendliest I have ever met.

Nowhere else has it been so easy to meet people and strike up conversations with strangers.

No matter where you were, on the bus, walking down a street or in a supermarket, people from all ages would talk to you.

It’s all in the little things.

In many ways Scotland reminded me of Vanuatu, where people laughed and smiled more, and where rather than giving you a strange look when talking to them, they actually tarted talking to you.

It will take some time to let all our impressions sink in, but I will write more about Scotland and our experiences – and I will be back, for sure.

Stirling Loch Lomond Scotland Travel VIDEO

When Rabbie’s Tours offered to take us around Scotland for a few days we thought a 1 day tour to Stirling and Loch Lomond would be perfect.

The first stop was Stirling Castle, one of the most important castles in Scottish history.

You could actually visit the chamber and dining halls of the Royal family who used to live there.

We also made a quick stop over to check out Doune Castle where “Monty Python and the Holy Grail” was filmed!

Day Trip To Stirling & Loch Lomond Scotland

Squeezing as much as possible into a travel itinerary is not ideal, so if you want to see as much as possible of Scotland in a short period of time, it’s best once you have arrived and after the right currency exchange rate has been checked to either rent your own car or go with a great tour company so they can take you to the best places.

So when Rabbie’s Tours offered to take us around Scotland for a few days we thought a 1 day tour to Stirling and Loch Lomond would be perfect.

The Guide And The Tales

The tour began at 9 o clock in the morning, and after an amazing cup of mint hot chocolate from Chocolate Soup (thanks for the tip Anthony!) we met up outside their office on the Royal Mile.

The guide, Mac, dressed in kilt, t-shirt and calf high socks in tartan material wrapped with leather strings, was a charismatic guy who had such a strong passion for Scotland.

During the long drive passing stunning scenery on selected off the beaten track roads, we sat with our ears and eyes wide open and took in the scenery while listening to the crazy stories and tales of Scotland’s history and the people who made it what it is today.

Mac shared the history behind the many famous thieves, and royalties who shaped Scotland, talked about how life used to be for the people in this land, and the reason why there are only 5 million Scots in Scotland and about 20 million around the rest of the world.

Scotland’s history is brutal but so fascinating, we learned about everything from the most important events in the country’s history to small details like how the word black mail and mailbox derives from historical events in Scotland.

The Route

The first stop was Stirling Castle, one of the most important castles in Scottish history.

You could actually visit the chamber and dining halls of the Royal family who used to live there.

We also made a quick stop over to check out Doune Castle where “Monty Python and the Holy Grail” was filmed!

If you have seen the movie, you would recognize the castle in the movie more than once, as they pretend the castle was several different castles when it was in reality just one castle, filmed from 3 different angles – you have to love their solutions to budget and convenience..!

We then drove through the Trossachs, often known as the ”highlands in miniature” because of its beautiful scenery with mountains and glens.

The final stop was Inversnaid, a secluded little place north of Loch Lomond, Scotland’s largest loch (lake).

We climbed up many narrow wooden stairs and walked through the green nature which is so distinct to Scotland, and a few minutes later we were facing a powerful, beautiful waterfall.

Usually waterfalls seem to disappoint me due to their weakness, and small size but this one (on the right —>) was actually one of the best I’ve ever seen.

We really enjoyed our tour with Rabbie’s, the guide was amazing, he taught us so much more about Scottish history than we could have imagined – and it really was a great way to spend a day in Scotland.

Fort William Scotland Travel VIDEO

About a week ago we decided that it might be fun to take a trip to Scotland – it was a very spontaneous thing, which seems to be the way we do things these days.

We will be spending about 9 days exploring different parts of Scotland, from Edinburgh to Fort William, Glasgow and Stirling – but besides being a spontaneous trip, Scotland really is a place we can’t wait to explore.

The highlands seem amazing, and there are so many places we want to see that it has been difficult trying to narrow it down and make it fit into our trip.

It seems to be very popular taking one of those Caledonian travel tours, and see a large part of Scotland in one day,  or we might take one of those for a day as well – but in the meantime our our itinerary looks like this: Edinburgh, Fort Williams, Glasgow and Stirling.

Fort William is promoted as the adventure capital of the UK and the nature seems amazing, for some awesome mountain biking action & Boat Cruises so we can explore the beauty of the highlands from the water.

I’ve never thought of Scotland as a place to live, but now that we’ve been looking into it – it seems to have everything you could want:

Amazing scenery, adventure outdoor things like skiing, mountain biking and even surfing – plus Edinburgh seems like a great city.

We stayed in Fort William, known as the gateway to the Highlands and the adventure capital of UK.

Sitting at the foot of Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in UK, and at the head of Loch Linnhe, a sea loch, the beauty surrounding this town is unmistakable.

When asking the locals in Edinburgh what their favorite place in Scotland was, they all said with dreamy eyes that nothing beats the highlands.

Fort William, Scotland – The Adventure Capital Of UK!

After three days in Edinburgh, with the most amazing summer weather and getting the most out of our press passes from VisitScotland, we headed further inland to one of the most beautiful parts of Scotland – the Highlands.

We stayed in Fort William Scotland, known as the gateway to the Highlands and the adventure capital of UK.

Sitting at the foot of Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in UK, and at the head of Loch Linnhe, a sea loch, the beauty surrounding this town is unmistakable.

When asking the locals in Edinburgh what their favorite place in Scotland was, they all said with dreamy eyes that nothing beats the highlands.

And then, finally, when it was right before my eyes, I could see why – the scenery spreading out far into the distance was absolutely stunning.

Muddy Mountain Biking

But walking down the main street in Fort William one thing became very clear to us: everyone else must have known something which we did not, as they were all fully equipped with enough gear and clothing to go mountaineering for days, ready to tackle any weather.

Sure enough the next day, the weather had switched. It was cold, rainy and windy, and the mountains were hiding behind the mist.

We were going on our first adventure: mountain biking.

The Ben Nevis range is world famous for its great mountain biking, and Nathan who loves mountain biking talked me into it.

We grabbed some bikes and when we arrived at the start of the mountain bike track the weather suddenly changed again. The mist was gone and the sun came out.

But many of the tracks were still muddy, and with no experience whatsoever I was up for quite a challenge.

At first I actually walked down with my bike (pretending to having biked down to Nathan) because I was so scared of the steep hill, but then I pulled myself together and decided that I was going to do this, falling and hurting myself or not (which I eventually did), I would not chicken out.

And like I’ve said before, if you try something you’re scared of you might actually find that you like it.

Fast forward 10 minutes later and all I could say was WOW – it was so much fun, and the track was awesome.

With many hills going down and not so many going up, it was less challenging for the condition and more for the skills, but it was still hard not to look away from the windy road to appreciate the green forest and the river running next to you.

The View From Aonach Mor

We finished the day by taking a gondola up to Anoach Mor, a big mountain with incredible views over Ben Nevis, the Great Glen and the Inner Hebrides.

While seeing the landscape from below is great, seeing it from above was definitely the best way to truly appreciate it.

The view you see is that of the first picture in this post.

Cruising The Loch

The next day we went on a cruise on Loch Linnhe with Crannog Cruises.

The morning started out windy, and the sun and clouds were fighting each other for attention.

It was quite spectacular to see the patches of sun and shadows playing over the smooth rolling hills around us, and with the sea being everything but calm, the little boat was up for a bumpy ride.

Having been in Fort William for only three days, I had quickly understood why everyone else had so much gear with them – the weather could change from one moment to the other, and we actually experienced three seasons in one day..!

The Most Scenic Train Journey In The World?

We left Fort William with some awesome experiences, and took the West Highland Line to Glasgow, which was voted the most scenic train journey in the world on Wanderlust magazine. So, was it true?

To tell you the truth, the scenery was definitely one of the most beautiful I’ve ever seen, and since the Europe Train Challenge we have been on a lot of trains..!

Most of the time the landscape was very remote and it kept changing all the time, which made it very interesting.

This is a great way to spend a few days in the Highlands and I would love to go back and see more.

Exploring Edinburgh, Scotland Travel VIDEO

One of the reasons I love Europe so much is because of its amazing history, or more precisely how easy it is to experience part of European history even today.

In Europe, history is all around us, and Edinburgh was no exception:

The Auld Reekie (smokey city), like it was once called, was a city bursting with history.  VisitScotland

The black stains on the buildings in the Old town marked the evidence of just how polluted the city once was, and the narrow closes (alleyways), leading the curious visitor into a labyrinth of small streets, are still there preserving the town’s medieval layout.

Edinburgh is often referred to as the most haunted city in Europe, perhaps because around every corner there is a story to tell.

I don’t think I have ever learned so much about a city’s history through stories and tales as I have of Edinburgh.

And the fact that the city has preserved so much of its medieval architecture and style made it easy to imagine what it must have been like living back then. Attending the Edinburgh Fringe Festival is an unforgettable experience

Edinburgh Scotland History

Edinburgh is often referred to as the most haunted city in Europe, perhaps because around every corner there is a story to tell.

I don’t think I have ever learned so much about a city’s history through stories and tales as I have of Edinburgh, and the fact that the city has preserved so much of its medieval architecture and style made it easy to imagine what it must have been like living back then.

But Edinburgh brings the past even closer than that – in fact there are even streets and rooms that have remained untouched since then: a close called Mary King’s Close.

Mary King’s Close

Mary King’s Close is a warren of underground streets and spaces, a place which has remained frozen in time since the 17^th century when it was open to the skies and full of life.

It was amazing to see how everything was still there, how the narrow street where people used to trade their goods was still intact, how even the wooden toilet of one of the families who used to live there was still standing right where they had left it, some 300 years earlier.

The ceilings in the rooms were covered in plaster made of horse hair and the ashes of human bodies who died in the plague, and in Mary King’s Close plague was so common that they had to quarantine the close, which is now the most haunted place in Scotland!

It gave you a very real impression of life in the days when people threw their waste out on the streets and had to walk barefoot in it themselves because they were too poor to afford shoes.

The Edinburgh you see today is a mixture of the best, it has the same cozy atmosphere, but cleaner and safer, and with some incredible green gardens and family villas to escape to as well.

We left Edinburgh with a fascination of the city’s past, but so happy to be there in the 21st century..!

Our trip through Scotland was in general filled with stories from the past, of how Scotland came to be, of William Wallace, and the Scottish pride and shame.

The Scotts seemed to love their tales, and like the Scottish proverb goes ”a good tale never tires in the telling”.

It’s been great to see so much of Scotland and get to know its history.

Next time I’m back in the UK I’d like to do the same with England, visit the “heart of England”, indulge a bit and stay in one of those traditional thatched luxury Cotswold cottages and learn more about the stories and tales from England, which make it what it is today.

Staying In Edinburgh With Roomorama

After a busy week traveling around Scotland, we were exhausted and in need of a place where we could just sit back and relax.

It doesn’t matter how cozy a hostel dorm is, if you’re sharing a room with strangers you simply don’t have the freedom to do whatever you want, when you want.

So instead of staying in Glasgow for the day, we hurried on to Edinburgh to enjoy the most of the apartment we had booked with Roomorama for 2 days.

It was the first time we had stayed in an apartment booked online via Roomorama, but they made the booking process easy, with many apartments to choose from and “checking in” to the apartment without a reception or someone to meet you was a breeze.

The apartment itself was amazing.

We stayed in Leith, a district in northern Edinburgh, with its own distinct character and once we had settled in – we felt at home right away:

The 2-bedroom apartment was luxurious and stylish but without losing that cozy touch –  the kitchen had everything you could possibly need for cooking, and the living room was spacious and light with large sliding balcony doors in glass, a comfy couch and flat screen TV.

In the hallway there was even a workout area for those wanting to work out, but we took the opportunity to use the high speed WiFi to catch up on work while enjoying a nice glass of red wine instead.

Edinburgh is a fantastic city with so many amazing things to see and do, but for one night we allowed ourselves to do nothing at all, which is somewhat of a luxury when it comes to traveling the way we normally do.

It’s amazing how great you feel after a good meal, a hot bath and a bed with plush pillows, and the next day we got up early, watched the sunrise and headed out on a new adventure to take a day tour to Stirling and Loch Lomond.

Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh is in our opinion one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, and while the weather might not always be the best with the cold winds and rain – there are so many things to see and do there in any type of weather so it doesn’t really matter when you visit.

Some highlights on a trip to Edinburgh is to stroll around the narrow cobbled streets of the old town, visit Greyfriar’s Kirk, check out Mary King’s close and the Edinburgh castle.

But there are many more things to see and do, two good places to warm up in and escape the cold are the Camera Obscura and the Botanic Gardens – the first is both fun and interesting, with the oldest tourist attraction in the city.

The Botanic Gardens has a huge glass house area where you can explore flora and fauna from all over the world, from the desert in Australia to the Amazon jungle.

Scottish Holiday Experience

The travel industry has changed drastically in the last few decades, with higher standards of excellence and an increase of low-budget travel operators all competing for the best deals on the travel hypermarket.

Demand is up, and supply is struggling to match it.

But the simple fact remains: you can’t put a price on luxury.

Of course, you’ll have to number crunch and scout out the best location for the type of holiday you want – a romantic getaway, a family weekend, a retirement retreat – all of these come with very different criteria.

But when it comes to a base, even the most intrepid traveler, I’m sure, would be hard-pushed to turn down some luxurious extras.

If Scotland’s your destination of choice, then whether you’re planning a castle tour, hiking through the glens or sampling the urban nightlife, a luxury Scottish hotel might just be the perfect place to rest, retreat to, rejuvenate, ready for the next day’s activities, as strenuous or as luxuriant as they might be.

And if you do decide that you can spare the extra pennies for the convenience of an on-site spa, pool, golf course or whatever else you decide is ‘luxury’ to you, then you’ll want to make sure that the rest of your holiday matches up.

Because it’s not just the hotel that should get a star rating.

Scottish Holiday Experience

Here are my picks for a five star Scottish holiday experience:

Island Living

Scotland’s ‘Misty Isle’ of Skye prevails as one of its most visited places – the road to Elgol takes you to one of the most stunning views anywhere in Scotland; an uninterrupted panorama of the Cuillin Hills.

This is glorious rambling territory, just make sure you come weather-proofed! It’s also great also for wildlife and hidden sandy beaches.

For something a little different, try the Orkney Islands instead.

Princes and Princesses

What’s more luxurious than a taste of the regal?

Scotland boasts some of the finest castles in the world.

Edinburgh Castle is the bastion of medieval grandeur, and the birthplace of King James I.

Entering William Wallace territory, try Stirling Castle and look out onto the ancient battlefields.

The ruins of St Andrews Castle are also impressive, clinging to a rocky outcrop over a small sandy beach.

Festival

There are festivals all year round, but for maximum luxury, forget the tent and hire a tipi, yurt or (promisingly) a ‘cloudhouse’ at the Wickerman Festival.

And for high-end culture, try the Edinburgh Film Festival in June or the Edinburgh International Book Festival in August.

For alternative chic, try the Hebridean Celtic Festival in July, or the wonderfully eccentric Stonehaven Fireball Festival.

Piping and drumming accompanies a procession of kilted fire-dancers, right to the water’s edge where they hurl the flames into the sea.

I hope this helps you plan your next trip or your study abroad in Scotland!

Exploring The Best Of Scotland

Scotland is a destination that for many years was underrated by travelers, but is now climbing up the ”popularity- ladder” of European destinations to visit.

Exploring The Best Of Scotland

The Scotts often praise and thank Mel Gibson for making both tourists as well as their own people interested in Scotland’s heritage and history with the blockbuster movie ”Brave heart”.

In fact, when traveling in Scotland today, you will notice how proud the Scottish people are of their culture, traditions and nature, which are all three very different from neighboring England.

Scotland is one of those places which takes you a lot longer to explore than most other places.

There is something to see around every corner, from the beautiful highlands, to the islands and beaches to the beautiful towns and universities.

Two weeks is far from enough to see everything that Scotland has to offer – but it’s enough to see a good bit of it and enjoy some of the highlights.

For us the best of Scotland was Edinburgh and up in the Highlands:

Edinburgh

Edinburgh is making a name for itself as one of the most beautiful cities in Europe – the old town, which sits on top of an extinct volcano, is very special.

The medieval architecture and closes (alleyways) are well preserved and there are tons of attractions, from ghost walks and Greyfriar’s Bobby’s graveyard, to royal buildings and viewpoints.

We recommend spending a few days in Edinburgh staying in one of the many Edinburgh cottages featured on: Scottish-cottages.co.uk – close to the Royal Botanic Garden, another place you must visit, to really get the best experience.

After spending some days in the beautiful city, you might want to see some of the nature and landscape that Scotland is so famous for.

The Highlands

The best way to see this area is to head into the Highlands for a couple of days, staying in traditional highland cottages like the ones you can find on: Scottish-cottages.co.uk and go for walks or drive around the area.

The highlands is a very popular place to go hiking, and while some people choose to spend several days hiking, you can base yourself in one place and take day hikes around the area.

Fort William is a good base for nature lovers, as you can also enjoy some mountain biking and in winter even some skiing.

There is also a pretty famous whiskey distillery and cruises that take you to see the highlands from the water.

Have fun in Scotland!

(photo credit: 1 – 1 – 3 – 1 – 2 – 3 – 4 – 5 – 1 – Victoria Reay – DaveBleasdale – timo_w2s – Full On Adventure – ILoveMyPiccolo)

Basel Switzerland is a very picturesque city with old buildings, narrow streets and a lot of interesting history.

It is known as an European culture center with over 40 museums, 25 theaters, operas and ballet and countless art galleries.

If you’re interested in that kind of thing you could easily spend a few days here going from museum to gallery to museum.

If this kind of thing doesn’t interest you, there are still quite a few things to see on your trip to Basel.

You can also find many outside art sculptures spread out all over the city, and it’s nice to just walk around the city stumbling upon them.

Basel in general is a really nice city to walk around in, especially in the old town.

It is one of those cities that are nice to look at from afar.

The  best way to do this is to walk over the bridge to the other side (new town), where you can walk along the river, have an ice cream and take some awesome pictures.

Then you can take the little ferry back to the old part of town again.

City Guide – Basel Switzerland

We recommend when staying ANYWHERE in Switzerland to use a rental home.

There are many great choices here for rental homes in Switzerland.

Switzerland Quick Facts:

Location: Switzerland
Language: (Swiss) German
Currency: Swiss Franc
Short History: The earliest documented citation of Basilia, the city at the bend in the Rhine, dates from the year 374.

Basel’s heraldic animal, the basilisk, is certainly of more recent origin.

It is a mythical creature, part cockerel and part dragon, which appeared for the first time around the year 450.

The Basilisk holding Basle’s coat of arms can be traced back in heraldry to a monument reminding of the fatal earthquake in 1356 that completely destroyed the city.

Things To Do In Basel:

Town Hall – Rathaus

This is an amazing building, it really stands out with its vibrant red color, and the hundreds of years old painted details are pretty cool.

It’s been there since the 14th century.

Münster Cathedral –

Brings you back to the old days yet another time.

You will find a great viewpoint of the canal from there!

Take the cable ferry across the Rhine river

These little boats taking you across the river have been going for hundreds of years and are still today very popular and widely used.

The boats are attached to cables so that they won’t get pulled into the strong currents.

The ferryman actually puts the boat on a special angle so that the current pushes the boat across.

Going To The Three Corners Of Basel – Switzerland, Germany & France In One Day?

The borders of Switzerland, France and Germany come together at the Three Countries Corner in Basel.

The thought of being able to stand with one foot in Switzerland and the other in France is a pretty cool fantasy, but not that amazing in reality.

We decided to take the chance of going to all three countries in the same day (Switzerland, France and Germany), but after the disappointing arrival in France we didn’t even bother to cross into the German border.

No parades, no ‘Welcome’, no pass port check – nothing.

Also I think we ended up in the most boring suburb of France ever, maybe if you would drive a bit further in to a nicer city it would be better.

Yeah, it would have been cool to say that you went to three countries in one day, but the place we ended up in on the French part across the border was just SO dull!

I think it would be awesome to go to France for a croissant breakfast, Germany for a typical German lunch (a descent bratwurst if you like), and dinner in Switzerland.

And I bet I’m not the only one who thinks so, but all we found on the French side of the border was a Chinese restaurant, and back on the Swiss side the first (and only) restaurant around was an Indian one.

The only main difference really was that the houses looked very different, not at all like in Switzerland, and everyone spoke French – all the sudden the prices had also changed from Swiss franc to euro.

Top 10 Things To Do Next Time You Visit Switzerland
What To Eat In Switzerland: 5 Foods Beyond Fondue

WARNING Note:

Nearly everything (shops, supermarkets, cafes etc.) is closed on Sundays in Basel (and Switzerland).

The only supermarkets which you will find open are the high-prices ones in the central train station.

Even the restaurants are closed, however you will find that the street-side Kebab shops are still open, thank god.

Swiss people work like maniacs during the week but when it’s the weekend, they take it seriously.

The same goes with their lunch breaks.

Every day between 12 and 2 p.m the shops close and the staff has a two hour lunch break, and they don’t reopen a second early – just so you know! 😉

Getting Around:

There are trams going basically everywhere, and like everything else in Switzerland they’re very punctual.

Mobility Pass:

All hotels in Basel, including the youth hostels, offer each registered guest a free “Mobility Pass” upon check in.

This gives free unlimited travel in Basel and suburbs (including to and from the airport) for the duration of their stay.

This is easily worth the price of a lunch every day you stay.

If you have written confirmation of a hotel reservation you can also use this to travel from the railway station or airport to your hotel.

At least one respected hotel in Basel advertises this fact on their web site.

This saves you 8 franc per day.

Getting There:

The Swiss train system is the best I’ve ever experienced.

The trains are fast, smooth and punctual, and all the stuff that is usually difficult when traveling by train is easy here.

It can be really expensive traveling with train in Switzerland, but they have countless of great deals and bargains, so you can actually get around really cheap if you ask them about it or read more on their website.

There are two train stations in Basel, the German station (Badischer Bahnhof, BBF) on the northern part, and the Swiss/French (SBB Bahnhof) in the city’s south.

If you get to Basel with a national train it stops at the southern station.

From there trains to Zurich and Geneva leave every hour.

Euro Airport works as the airport for all three corners, both Basel (Switzerland), Mullhouse (France) and Freiburg (Germany). The budget airline Easy Jet flies from here.

Where To Stay – Youth Hostel Basel City

Pfeffingerstasse 8, Basel, Switzerland 4053

The hostel is a part of HiHotels, so for those who are members the rooms are cheaper.

If you’re not a member you have to pay 6 franc extra.

It’s in a great location, only 3 minutes away from the train station, the rooms are clean, you get free linen, free towels and they offer a descent free breakfast, which is good since eating out is expensive in Switzerland.

Enjoy your stay in Basel! City Guide – Basel Switzerland

The earliest documented citation of Basilia, the city at the bend in the Rhine, dates from the year 374. Basel’s heraldic animal, the basilisk, is certainly of more recent origin.

It is a mythical creature, part cockerel and part dragon, which appeared for the first time around the year 450.

The Basilisk holding Basle’s coat of arms can be traced back in heraldry to a monument reminding of the fatal earthquake in 1356 that completely destroyed the city.

Basel Switzerland is a very picturesque city with old buildings, narrow streets and a lot of interesting history.

It is known as an European culture center with over 40 museums, 25 theaters, operas and ballet and countless art galleries…one of the most glamorous places to visit in Europe.

If you’re interested in that kind of thing you could easily spend a few days here going from museum to gallery to museum.

If this kind of thing doesn’t interest you, there are still quite a few things to see on your trip to Basel.

You can also find many outside art sculptures spread out all over the city, and it’s nice to just walk around the city stumbling upon them.

Basel in general is a really nice city to walk around in, especially in the old town.

If it’s in the winter, go skiing, Swiss style.

It is one of those cities that are nice to look at from afar.

The  best way to do this is to walk over the bridge to the other side (new town), where you can walk along the river, have an ice cream and take some awesome pictures.

Then you can take the little ferry back to the old part of town again.

Things To Do In Basel:

Town Hall – Rathaus

This is an amazing building, it really stands out with its vibrant red color, and the hundreds of years old painted details are pretty cool. It’s been there since the 14th century.

Münster Cathedral

Brings you back to the old days yet another time. You will find a great viewpoint of the canal from there!

Take the cable ferry across the Rhine river

These little boats taking you across the river have been going for hundreds of years and are still today very popular and widely used.

The boats are attached to cables so that they won’t get pulled into the strong currents.

The ferryman actually puts the boat on a special angle so that the current pushes the boat across.

Going To The Three Corners Of Basel – Switzerland, Germany & France In One Day?

The borders of Switzerland, France and Germany come together at the Three Countries Corner in Basel.

The thought of being able to stand with one foot in Switzerland and the other in France is a pretty cool fantasy, but not that amazing in reality.

We decided to take the chance of going to all three countries in the same day (Switzerland, France and Germany), but after the disappointing arrival in France we didn’t even bother to cross into the German border.

No parades, no ‘Welcome’, no pass port check – nothing. Also I think we ended up in the most boring suburb of France ever, maybe if you would drive a bit further in to a nicer city it would be better.

Yeah, it would have been cool to say that you went to three countries in one day, but the place we ended up in on the French part across the border was just SO dull!

I think it would be awesome to go to France for a croissant breakfast, Germany for a typical German lunch (a descent bratwurst if you like), and dinner in Switzerland.

And I bet I’m not the only one who thinks so, but all we found on the French side of the border was a Chinese restaurant, and back on the Swiss side the first (and only) restaurant around was an Indian one.

The only main difference really was that the houses looked very different, not at all like in Switzerland, and everyone spoke French – all the sudden the prices had also changed from Swiss franc to euro.

WARNING Note:

Nearly everything (shops, supermarkets, cafes etc.) is closed on Sundays in Basel (and Switzerland).

The only supermarkets which you will find open are the high-prices ones in the central train station.

Even the restaurants are closed, however you will find that the street-side Kebab shops are still open, thank god.

Swiss people work like maniacs during the week but when it’s the weekend, they take it seriously.

The same goes with their lunch breaks.

Every day between 12 and 2 p.m the shops close and the staff has a two hour lunch break, and they don’t reopen a second early – just so you know! 😉

Getting Around Basel:

There are trams going basically everywhere, and like everything else in Switzerland they’re very punctual.

Mobility Pass: All hotels in Basel, including the youth hostels, offer each registered guest a free “Mobility Pass” upon check in.

This gives free unlimited travel in Basel and suburbs (including to and from the airport) for the duration of their stay.

This is easily worth the price of a lunch every day you stay.

If you have written confirmation of a hotel reservation you can also use this to travel from the railway station or airport to your hotel.

At least one respected hotel in Basel advertises this fact on their web site.

This saves you 8 franc per day.

Getting To Basel, Switzerland:

By Train: The Swiss train system is the best I’ve ever experienced.

The trains are fast, smooth and punctual, and all the stuff that is usually difficult when traveling by train is easy here.

It can be really expensive traveling with train in Switzerland, but they have countless of great deals and bargains, so you can actually get around really cheap if you ask them about it or read more on their website.

There are two train stations in Basel, the German station (Badischer Bahnhof, BBF) on the northenrn part, and the Swiss/French (SBB Bahnhof) in the city’s south.

If you get to Basel with a national train it stops at the southern station. From there trains to Zurich and Geneva leave every hour.

By Air:

Euro Airport works as the airport for all three corners, both Basel (Switzerland), Mullhouse (France) and Freiburg (Germany). The budget airline Easy Jet flies from here.

Where To Stay in Basel

We like staying at Youth Hostel Basel City – mainly for the fact that it is right next to the central train station, so arriving and leaving is easy.

Youth Hostel Basel City

Pfeffingerstasse 8, Basel, Switzerland 4053

The hostel is a part of HiHotels, so for those who are members the rooms are cheaper.

If you’re not a member you have to pay 6 franc extra.

It’s in a great location, only 3 minutes away from the train station, the rooms are clean, you get free linen, free towels and they offer a descent free breakfast, which is good since eating out is expensive in Switzerland.

European cruise – The open fjords, the lava caves and the breath taking and continental cities of Europe make it a top destination for cruises.

Europe’s collection of countries differ greatly, not just in terms of language, but landscape too.

If you’re on a European cruise, there are some must-see destinations, which demonstrate the diversity of this small continent.

Relics from ancient civilizations make for sites of interest both visually and archaeologically.

To look at some of the best European cruises, head over to Bolsover Cruise Club and hunt for the best itinerary, including at least one of these gems.

Best Places to Visit on a European Cruise

European Cruise to Barcelona

With some of the most impressive architecture, stunning miles of beaches and a vibrant food market in its center, Barcelona is a European city that has it all.

Including a port, which enables it to be easily accessed on the cruise circuit.

Soak up the sun and the quirky entertainment as you stroll down Las Ramblas or visit Gaudi’s Parc Guell, with its impressive views of the city and cascading bougainvillea.

Getting lost in the backstreets of Barcelona and uncovering some of its quirky restaurants, bars and galleries are all part of the fun.

Like a living gallery, everything in Barcelona is covered in fantastic street art, and the beaches often boat impressive sandcastle structures.

Rome

Sprawling and cosmopolitan these days, Rome is home to the impressive ruins of the Colosseum and speaks of its history in almost everything you see.

Whilst it is vast, there is a lot of Rome you can see on foot and its impressive history lives through its monuments.

Offering some of the most incredible experiences, Rome is a must-not-miss place that frequently crops up on European tours.

From shopping to culture and history to contemporary, Rome has a slice of something for everyone, and of course pizza!

Norwegian Fjords

A million miles away from the cosmopolitan cities and resplendent architecture of the other two destinations, a European cruise with a difference takes in all of the incredible Viking history and dazzling archipelago that make up parts of Norway.

Slowly moving through these deep crevices in the landscape and imaging our Norse forefathers’ fleet maneuvering through them is nothing short of majestic, and is the kind of once in a lifetime experience that a cruise should be.

Offering unrivaled scenery, Norway cruises are a unique way to connect with history.

Visiting Helsinki

Arguably Scandinavia’s most naturally picturesque capital, Helsinki is an energetic seaside city compromised of beautiful islands and vast green parks.

Any one of the 300 islands that compromise its archipelago are worth a visit and none get too crowded although Pihlajasaari is only a short ferry ride from the heart of Helsinki and has all the forest and wildflowers you’ll need to enjoy an authentic Finish experience.

The design scene in Helsinki is also widely regarded as one of the most advanced in the world today, with the boutiques, workshops and galleries that make up its design district contributing to its 2012 status as the World Design Capital.

Dubrovnik

Located in the extreme south of Croatia, Dubrovnik is a stunningly beautiful city with a rich history as well as great modern cultural significance.

Otherwise known as ‘the pearl of the Adriatic’, Dubrovnik became a Unesco World Heritage Site in 1979, largely because of its majestic Old Town.

Although severely damaged by an earthquake in 1667 much of the city’s Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque churches, palaces and statues remain and provide the perfect architectural base for King’s Landing in HBO’s epic fantasy series Game of Thrones.

Filming tours now take place in the old town and offer fans of the show a unique chance to see the buildings that inspired the television version of the Red Keep, Blackwater Bay, Great Sept of Baelor.

Athens

Often regarded as the birthplace of Western civilization, Athens was a cultural hot spot for tourists before many modern-day countries even came into existence.

Today, Greece’s capital is a perfect mix of ancient and contemporary with two thousand five-hundred-year-old buildings standing side by side with state-of-the-art tower blocks.

Home to well over 3 million Greeks, construction for the 2004 Olympics did much to help alleviate the pollution and overpopulation that had become heavily associated with Athens during the twentieth century.

New Metro lines and improved roads helped alleviate traffic congestion and a series of newly constructed pedestrian-only streets help network the city’s most revered and historical sites

Istanbul

The city where East meets West, Istanbul is the point at which Europe and Asia touch.

One of the few places on earth, you’ll see almost as many as holy Christian landmarks as you will holy Islamic landmarks, Istanbul has an embarrassment of historical sights of interest.

Everywhere you visit in the city, you’ll find museums, palaces, grand mosques and churches that attest to the city’s magnificent history as the capital of the Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman Empires.

No trip to Istanbul is complete without visiting the vibrant and busy Grand Bazaar, located at the heart if Istanbul’s Old City for centuries.

Starting as a small vaulted warehouse, built in 1461, it grew to cover a vast area of neighboring shops and is now the countries’ largest covered market.

Lisbon

Portugal’s busy capital city offers a perfect combination of history, culture, modern architecture and natural beauty.

Its hilly landscape will have you wandering from quiet courtyards overlooking gothic quarters to modern terraces offering magnificent views across the whole city.

Saint George’s Castle is the landmark most commonly associated with the city and can be seen from anywhere inside Lisbon’s perimeter.

The Lisbon locals are renowned for their nightlife so why not join them for sunset shots of traditional ginjinha (cherry liqeur) in their unrivaled cultural hot spot, Bairro Alto, where revelers hit the street to chat, drink and dance before heading to the city’s riverside mega club Lux.

Marmaris to Fethiye Blue Cruise

As if the crystal clear turquoise of the Mediterranean were not enough to convince you that a blue cruise is the ideal way to spend your next holiday, read below for more reasons including discovering historical gems, enjoying luxurious mud baths, and finding romance in a lighthouse at sunset.

EXPLORE THE ANCIENT CITY OF KAUNOS

On your cruise from Marmaris to Fethiye, one of the historical highlights is the ancient city of Kaunos.

According to ancient myth, Kaunos was named after King Kaunos who was the son of the Carian King Miletus and Kyane and the grandson of Apollo.

His twin sister, Byblis, developed a deep love for him, and when she told him of her feelings, he fled elsewhere to settle down with some of his followers.

Byblis, crushed with sadness, tried to commit suicide.

The myth claims that the Calbys river is a product of her tears.

Later Kaunos developed into a major port between Lycia and Caria.

Guests can take a river boat trip to see the ancient Lycian tombs, the resting places of Kaunos kings, built high in the rock face.

Overlooking the sea and the delta area, the key things to see include the Acropolis surrounded by city walls, four temples, an agora, a theater, the baths, churches and a cistern.

Even if you are not a history buff and there is much more to this part of the trip than archaeology and old ruins.

Take the trek up to the top and soak in magnificent views of the surrounding scenery.

RELAX AT THE DALYAN MUD BATHS AND TURTLE BEACH

On to Dalyan to take a mud bath and/or relax on Turtle Beach, a protected beach for endangered sea turtles.

Caretta Turtles (logger head turtles) still lay their eggs there.

Dalyan is a city with a lot to offer in and of itself, but one of the most unique and exciting attractions is the famous mud baths and sulfur hot springs.

The mud baths in Dalyan are famous for their medicinal benefit to your skin due to the rich nutrient content of the mud.

It feels very much like the Dead Sea in Jordan as the bath is so densely concentrated with salt that you just float effortlessly on top of the water.

Let the mud dry and enjoy the feeling of toxins being extracted from your skin.

After you’ve had your fill of caking it on, take a quick dip in the lake to wash it off and enjoy your freshly detoxed skin!

Added bonus: If you suffer from Rheumatic diseases, arthritis, eczema or any other similar conditions, the mud is said to relieve symptoms!

Having cleaned yourself up, it’s time to move on to a smelly sulfur bath. Likewise, the sulfur bath is known to relieve rheumatism, hypertension, gout, liver disease, and a host of other ailments.

As the natural spring is loaded with sodium, chloride, sulfur and calcium and sits at a piping 39°C (102°F), try to relax into the healing element and not think too much about the smell of spoiled eggs filtering through your nose.

Extremely fragrant, but a really cool, different experience!

REENACT HISTORY AT CLEOPATRA BAY

A favorite spot for many of the guests on the cruise is Hamam Bay where you can swim among the ruins of a Roman bath called the Cleaopatra Bath.

In this special cove, the volcanic structure of the natural hillside supports theories of the previous existence of a crater lake, which provided warm water to the bath in ancient times.

Cleopatra is said to have ordered shiploads of white sand to be brought here from Egypt to create her own secret paradise.

It’s rumored that Cleopatra herself came here to bathe in the bay and came with Marc Antony especially for their honeymoon.

Another main attraction is the monastery ruins, most of which are located underwater.

Unlike many other sites, Hamam Bay is yet to be protected so it’s possible to totally immerse yourself in the sites and surroundings while snorkelling over the ruins.

The shoreline is lined with a stunning display of pine trees, and, if you hike up Yavansu Hill, you will discover the remains of Lydae Ancient City which includes the ruins of a mauseoleum, cisterns, temple walls, Corinthian columns and inscribed tablets from the Roman and Byzantine periods.

As this area cannot be reached by land or road, and daily boat tours don’t visit this site, Cleopatra Bath was very exclusive to the Marmaris Blue Cruises.

DISCOVER ROMANCE AND BEAUTY AT THE RED ISLAND

Of the group of 12 Islands, one of the most stunning experiences to be has is on Kizil Ada (Red Island).

Here you can enjoy swimming in the crystal turquoise waters, and discover the rocks for some diving fun.

There are small and large rocks alike for the ultimate diving experience. This is one of the best areas on the cruise for diving.

The Red Island is covered in small red pebbles hence its name.

There are many small private coves that you can seek out to enjoy some quiet, personal time.

This is the ideal place to be at sunset as the sun lights up the red pebbles on the beach.

The glowing effect is reflected all over the stones and into the surrounding water creating a breathtaking effect.

Once you have had your fill of swimming and diving in the beautiful waters, head on shore to the lone lighthouse that is the outstanding structure overlooking the beach.

At the top is a restaurant where you can indulge in a gorgeous seafood dinner as you overlook the sunset and glowing stones and sand on the beach while sipping on some wine or raki.

Red Island is known to host some spectacular weddings and it’s hard to imagine that it can get any more romantic than this.

Cruise Ships A Worthwhile Way To Travel

The first time we actually started seriously thinking about taking a cruise was in Norway last week.

We had never taken cruise ships before and hadn’t really considered it an option, until we thought of what an amazing experience it would be to cruise down the whole Fjords in Norway, all the way from top to bottom – or to be honest, any way really, as long as we could experience the Fjords.

After having spent countless of hours on trains through Europe, we thought it would be nice with some change – and the best way to experience Norway seems to be on the water.

We left Oslo with a promise – to return one day soon and take a cruise down the fjords.

As it happens, a few days later, we hopped on our first cruise ship ever, not through the Fjords, but from Stockholm to Helsinki (with the InterRail Global Passes you get a pretty hefty discount).

The ship criss crossed between the islands on the huge Sweden archipelago, and after so many train rides it was really fun to see the nature sweeping past in a different way.

You’ll be amazed of how many Swedish people live on tiny rural islands 4 hours away from mainland!

Although we only went for one night, it made us curious to try out a real cruise lasting for a week or more.

Unless you’re working on cruise ships, taking a cruise is far from the typical backpacker style of travel, but who cares?

Travel is travel, and I would like to try every angle of it – you never know what something really is like until you’ve tried it.

So we’re thinking of testing it out, either in the beautiful Norway with its many harbor points, woolen jumpers and beautiful nature, or somewhere south where it’s nice and warm and you drink over-sweetened cocktails all day long, perhaps one of those many Mediterranean cruises.

I’ve always liked the idea of doing some island hopping in Greece, so maybe cruising between the islands would be an idea.

But then we have the typical problem that I always have at one point: Where do I want to go?

Sometimes you wish there weren’t so many options to choose from, things would be so much easier then.

Opening your mind to something new is always overwhelming, it’s like a jungle of cruise options out there.

How do we avoid the Hawaiian shirts, line dancing and karaoke cruises?

Can they be avoided?

What kind of cruises do younger people take?

What would a cultural cruise be like? … Choices, choices, choices …Romantic cruise???

What Can You Do On a Cruise?

Cruise holidays may have once been the choice of the older generations and travelers with a passion for bingo and ballroom dancing, but today there is a cruise holiday to suit every kind of adventurer and explorer.

Cruising has experienced something of a makeover in recent decades and modern cruise ships are more like floating resorts than the antiquated vessels of the past.”

Here is just a taste of what you can experience when you book a cruise holiday.

Ice-skating

 If you are looking for activities to cool off, then don’t forget your ice skates!

Voyager of the Seas, operated by Royal Caribbean, offers ice skating to guests and produces professional ice skating shows for entertainment.

The ship also features a plethora of eateries plus a wide choice of super-stylish bars.”

Don’t take our word for it though, check out the rave reviews of this vessel, written by fellow travelers to help you pick the perfect cruise for you.

Visit a Botanical Garden

If you want to surround yourself in luxury, a Celebrity Cruise is a great option.

Since its launch in 2001, the Infinity ship has given the industry a few ‘cruising firsts’ – namely the beautiful botanical gardens.

You can escape the sea breeze at the Celebrity Infinity conservatory, which is filled with a myriad of flowers, trees, gardens and fountains to enjoy both day and night.

 Watch a Broadway show

After a hard day glacier trekking in Alaska or snorkeling in the islands, you can relax watching your favorite Broadway musical.

Creative ship designers at Royal Caribbean, for example, cater to all tastes with their built-in theater productions.

Here you can experience Hairspray, Chicago, or Saturday Night Fever on-board your cruise liner.”

Other Cruise Lines also produce first class shows and entertainment, as well, ranging from the Blue Man Group to Cirque.

With so many liners raising the standards of cruise holidays beyond all previous experiences, the industry is enjoying a fresh influx of younger singles, couples and families.

Top 5 Cruises Around The World

Have you dreamed of seeing the world without having to unpack?

Maybe you’re expecting a nice rebate from filing your taxes or thinking about a nice summer vacation for the kids.

Cruises are a great way to travel without having to become a nomad.

With careful planning, it is possible for you to cruise away and circumnavigate the world.

Cruising is a cost effective way to see magnificent vistas and experience the rich cultural life at the many ports of call whilst having the highest level of service and amenities available at your convenience.

Cunard Queen Mary 2

This highly rated liner needs no introduction and with its reputation for grandeur and elegance you will enjoy a truly remarkable world cruise.

Discover the unique charm of Asia by visiting Bangkok and Saigon, then spend time in beguiling Hong Kong.

Next stop is Shanghai before heading down under to the rugged coastlines of Australia and New Zealand.

Take in the spectacular scenery of Africa and the Mediterranean and gaze in awe at the natural beauty of the Americas.

Cruising across four breathtaking continents will leave you with lasting memories of your amazing world cruise journey.

Crystal Serenity

Take a journey of exceptional discovery with all-inclusive value.

Complimentary fine wines, premium spirits and gratuities for staff are all part of the Crystal package.

The 74 day cruise is broken up into four exhilarating segments.

Visit Europe, Africa, the South Pacific, the USA and everywhere in between on this exceptional and luxurious cruise.

Regent Seven Seas

Take advantage of your free airfares when connecting with your grand voyage.

As part of your six star luxury cruise you will enjoy complimentary shore excursions, complimentary beverages plus much more.

Cruise to exotic destinations and be spellbound by the aromas, sights and scenery of all there is to explore.

P & O luxury liners

Embark on your odyssey aboard one of P & O luxury liners.

The Azura, Arcadia or Aurora all has in-depth itineraries that will take you on an exotic journey of up to 110 days.

Your cruise will call into 32 ports within 20 different countries.

You will enjoy the classic cruise traditions such as the Captain’s cocktail party and afternoon tea plus exceptional personalized service from dedicated staff.

Holland America

Your fascinating itinerary will take you to stunning cities and intriguing places, whilst enjoying a level of comfort that is only available on a luxury world cruise.

Explore the globe across five continents and visit many exotic ports of call.

You will also visit lesser known ports and view the spectacular scenery of nature at its best.

A world cruise is a commitment to spending endless days at sea, relaxing and enjoying on board activities and then joining in the wide range of on shore excursions. What items are a must for Traveling?

Because of the length of time you are spending on board, you can enjoy things at a slower pace.

Guests on long cruises can take comfort in the fact that they are in a safe environment.

There is no need to rush around as you would do if you were on a shorter cruise.

This type of cruising is for everyone, not just the retired.

In fact, many world cruise passengers are made up of families, retired, semi-retired and those who are still working.

Some people work and then take their long service leave so they can live their dream of ‘a world cruise’.

Popular Europe Cruise Regions and what they all have to offer

Cruising in Europe is very popular as you get a chance to explore so many different countries and cultures in a short period of time.

When planning to cruise Europe it can be difficult choosing which region to cruise in if you don’t know what to expect and what makes them different from each other.

Best European Cruise Regions

Greenland & Iceland

Although not your most common holiday destination, a cruise around Greenland and Iceland is one of the most adventurous destinations in Europe.

Experience the Northern Lights, soak into hot natural pools in surroundings that are well below freezing temperature, and explore the small villages and local traditions.

The nature in Iceland is among the most beautiful in the world – and not everyone can say they’ve been to Greenland – not everyone does tours to these places has several options for these types of cruises.

United Kingdom

While the Brits have known of the country’s beauty for centuries, others are now discovering just how spectacular the UK is, with a great mixture of cosmopolitan cities and rural natural beauty.

From the pub culture in Dublin to the Beatles nostalgia in Liverpool, there is plenty for every taste.

The Baltic Sea

The beautiful Baltic is emerging as a popular cruise destination, and understandably so as many of the best places can only be reached by boat.

To see the Baltic gems Stockholm, Helsinki, Tallinn and Riga for example, it’s much easier and faster to do the trip on a cruise – there are also some fantastic small places to stop over by, such as the holiday island Gotland and Klaipeda in Lithuania.

Mediterranean

Cruising in the Mediterranean remains the favorite among Brits, and it simply has it all; great weather, delicious food, plenty of culture and spectacular old cities.

Greece and Croatia offers gorgeous beaches and small seaside villages, Italy with its historical cities and the glamorous French Riviera are just a few stops you can choose from when cruising in the Mediterranean.

Canary Islands

With its year-round mild climate and sunny weather, the Canary Islands have long been a favorite destination among European holiday makers.

Each island has its own charm, and on a cruise you won’t have to choose just one, but can explore the black volcanic beaches in Lanzarote, the deserts of Gran Canaria, and the lush nature of Tenerife, which also has the largest penguin population outside of the Arctic.

Hopefully this will give you a good indication of what to expect from these different cruises in Europe, and help you decide which one to choose!

Exploring The Mediterranean On Cruise Ship

Mediterranean On Cruise Ship – Backpack on your back, public transport, smelly hostel dorms and sweaty gap-year students not appeal?

Well, backpacking isn’t the only way to discover the Mediterranean in one holiday.

Instead, why not travel the Mediterranean in style, atop the deck of a luxury cruise liner, basking in the hot sun as the ocean sparkles below.

The Right Cruise For You

There’s a great selection of cruise ships that sail the Mediterranean, so you shouldn’t have a problem finding one that suits your needs.

If you have some specific destinations in mind, then you’ll be able to find a number of ships that pass through them.

You can also find cruises tailored specifically to your wants or interests, whether they’re cultural and historical trips, or something tailored to a family, with plenty of activities and entertainment.

Comfort And Amenities

All cruise fleets are fantastically equipped to ensure that your trip is as enjoyable and comfortable as possible.

There are good quality restaurants on board, along with bars and pools for you to lounge by.

Some even contain quality spa services to help you really unwind after a day of exploring.

There will also be activities and shows to keep you and your family occupied throughout the day, when you’re not at port, and in the evenings.

When some people think of cruises, they imagine cramped little cupboards, but the reality is far from this image; cabins are built to be as inviting and as roomy as possible, with your comfort being of the utmost importance.

Price

Another misconception is the price. Most people expect that cruises are going to be extortionately expensive, but that just isn’t the case. Mediterranean cruises with the Co-operative offer great affordable deals.

A trip on Royal Serenade of the Seas to the Suez Canal for 15 days will cost only £449 per person.

This is one of Royal Caribbean’s newest cruise ships, which offers one of the best ‘at sea’ experiences you’re likely to have.

It’s been built with comfort in mind, with loads of space and sweeping ocean vistas.

There’s also the huge, ten-floored glass Centrum, with glass elevators, which offers magnificent sea views.

There’s also the highest percentage of outside staterooms of any ship in the Royal Caribbean fleet.

Choosing Your Cruise

Whatever you’re looking for – whether you are looking for a long, sea-faring adventure or just a short trip around the Mediterranean.

The Co-operative are bound to have a deal that suits you.

Whether it’s the Greece and Athens in the Eastern Mediterranean that piques your interest, or the great city of Rome, you’re sure to find a trip that does your desired rounds.

(photo credit: 1)

Stereotypical Britain – Many people living outside of Britain hold a certain image to the country and its inhabitants. It would be incredibly dismissive to quash these visions as untrue for outside visitors – but they’re definitely all not true for all parts of the UK. England Travel Guide

They say you should never meet your heroes as you will only be disappointed – the same should be said for places you love.

The last thing you’d want is to go to England only to see that what everyone says isn’t true.

It would be cruel to ruin the dream, so here are the best places to go to experience the English stereotypes that you hold dear to your heart.

Now, all you need to explore the land of the Brits is a good camera, a car, a comfortable pair of shoes and maybe you can pass the Life In The UK Test

Where To Find The Stereotypical Britain

London

This is the capital for a reason – you’ll find thousands of traditional stereotypes living and breathing here.

Visit the East End for cockney pubs and jellied eels, then travel to the center for a completely different culture.

Seeing past the busy workers power-walking past on angry phone calls, it’s easy to experience the tradition seeped in England’s capital.

In Westminster you can visit the Houses of Parliament and have a peek down Downing Street – and from politics to royals you can visit Buckingham Palace.

And then there are the skyscrapers, big red buses, the London eye, China Town, the Thames, the West End, Hamleys and Harrods, along with so much more.

York

The best word to encapsulate York is ‘quaint’. With winding, cobbled streets, tea rooms and stone walls, this is a very typically English city.

It has old sweet shops and dusty second-hand book shops, as well as The Shambles – one of best preserved medieval streets in the world.

It is filled with tourist shops, tea shops, and aromas of fudge and chocolate…awesome things to do in York!

Lake District

With breath-taking peaks, quaint countryside towns and Wordsworth’s grave, the Lake District gives postcards of England their pictures.

With around 15.5 million visitors per year, you won’t be the only one chasing traditional England…

Make sure to visit Keswick for traditional English pubs and cafes.

Scarborough

When people think of Britain, they think of fish and chips – whilst the food horizons of many Brits may have broadened, this is still the go-to Friday evening meal for many households across the country.

Scarborough, the largest holiday resort on the Yorkshire coast, is the ideal place to visit for seaside traditions – as well as fish and chips, you’ll find arcades, donkey rides, candy-floss and a nice freezing cold, British sea.

Yorkshire Dales

The county of Yorkshire has strong stereotypes attached to it – and they can all be found in the popular holiday destination of the Yorkshire Dales.

Talkative strangers, farmers, lots of sheep and an abundance of pubs – any village in the Yorkshire Dales will make you feel at home in England.

What is your favorite stereotypical place in Britain?

Cotswold Way Walking Trip Itinerary

Peak District Walking & Outdoor Festival

Spring has arrived, and in Peak District, England, they’re preparing for the upcoming annual Walking & Outdoor Festival later this month.

The festival begins the 23rd of April and continues to the 8th of May, and over 100 events and competitions will be held during the festival.

For those who don’t know, Peak District is known for having some of England’s absolute best places for hiking, with many great trails with beautiful views.

The Peak District is the UK’s first national park, and the festival highlights and showcases the best of the area; the lush landscape, picturesque villages and the rare flora (which includes orchids during spring and early summer).

The festival will be fun for everyone who loves the outdoors, but you really don’t have to be an expert; guided tours, climber lessons for beginners and navigation lessons for beginners are just a few things for those who are like me, and want to try the outdoors sports for a bit without any real experience.

Another fun way to enjoy the natural park is to do it with an ‘artistic’ focus.

There are specialized photography walks and a photography competition (the theme this year is ‘fire and light’) going on.

During the guided walk in the district you’ll learn heaps of history about the area, with all from railway heritage walks to plague village walks.

If you’re interested in visiting The Peak District, I think this is the best time of the year to do it.

Many people have planned their Peak District holidays for months in advance so it might be a bit tricky finding some place to stay in the some of the closer villages.

One way to get around this would be to spend your nights in one of the many pretty Ambleside cottages.

Ambleside is as beautiful as the village in the main Peak District area, and then you can just drive to the festival for a lovely day trip.

There are many nice villages around Lake District as well, In Keswick, renting out one of the traditional Keswick cottages is very popular for weekend holiday makers, and if you find it too far to drive to Peak District from there you’ll find that the nature around these villages is pretty amazing in itself.

If this is a bit short of time to plan, don’t worry, since there are festivals in Peak District all year round, the next one, National Forest Walking Festival, begins already May 21st to June 1st, and then there is another autumn festival in September.

So basically, whenever you plan to go here, check out what festival is going on in the near future and go then, a festival always brings out the best of places!

London Travel VIDEO Discover a Wonderful City

We felt like London was a small town which had exploded with people, the buildings were cute, everything was close and we really felt at home even though everyone around us was sprinting around, stressed out of their minds.

The fact that London had so much nature within the city, really gave you a chance to sit down and relax even with all that chaos around you while on your vacation in the UK. England Travel Guide

Incredible Capital Cities

What To Do In London – So you have a ticket to London, now what?

London is a city that basically has it all, but for many it’s often hard to know where to begin.

It has great shopping, beautiful architecture, awesome nightlife, parks, markets and lots of UK Celebration!

A weekend in London will be packed with stuff to do

Getting Around London:

Many of the places of interest are concentrated in one area so you can walk between them, however, the public transport is quite good and by using the subway you save a lot of time.

A day pass is a good idea to get, it costs 6£ and is valid from 9.30 am and lasts all the day until 4.30 am the next morning – you can use the pass both on subways as well as buses.

Things to do London:

Parks And Speakers Chair

London is full of beautiful parks to hang out in on a nice day or stroll along the green alleys, so take some time to slow down the pace in the parks between shopping.

St James park and Hyde park are two big parks located right in town which are both very nice.

In Hyde park they have something called ”speakers chair” every Sunday, where  people stand on a stage and talk about whatever they want in a microphone for whoever wants to listen.

If you have the guts, you’re welcome to get up there yourself! St James park is a beautiful park to check out after or before a visit to the Buckingham palace.

Changing of the Guard

The changing of the guard at Buckingham palace at 11.30 every morning is a big tourist attraction.

Don’t hold any high expectations on the actual ”show”, especially not in bad weather (which isn’t too rare here), but it’s worth a look just to experience the crazy crowds.

London Eye

The London eye actually gives a great view over London, and it’s especially beautiful at night.

But even the area itself is worth a tour, there is a pretty cool area full of Graffiti art right nearby.

The best view of Big Ben is from the Westminister bridge going between the London eye and Big Ben, and who doesn’t want that iconic photo shot?

London Shopping

Oxford street is the place for shopping. There is something for everyone here, and for most budgets.

But for an actual experience, head to Harrods.

Perhaps buy something really small as a souvenir from this place, or just window shop around this historic, exclusive shopping complex.

London Markets

London has HEAPS of markets; Small, big, famous and unknown.

Camden market is one of the more popular ones, and it’s a fun place to buy things from local unknown designers.

Covent garden also has a market, and after some shopping you’re likely to see some awesome street performers on the square.

This is the square where famous street performers do their acts.

London Nightlife

For a beer at a cozy pub with good atmosphere and intimacy, The Cittie of York on High Holbourn is a good choice.

The pub has a very traditional design, and you sit in little wooden booths.

For the cheapest beer in town, Ye Olde Cheesire pub on Fleet street is the place to go.

The pub is the oldest in London, and they brew their own beer out of town.

For a real club experience, Cafe  1001 is a cafe and DJ bar on a side street in Brick Lane which we got a tip about from a local guy.

Many tourists don’t know about the place, but it’s a huge hits among the people living in London.

Where And What To Eat in London:

It’s almost more “typical” to eat international food than the traditional British food in London.

Cuisine from all corners of the world can be found here, so make the most of it!

Restaurants that are located a bit out of the central areas are of course a lot cheaper.

The smaller streets around Kings Cross have some good deals, but chances are that you will be in the center for lunch.

There are a lot of  “all you can eat” buffets spread around the city center in London, especially Chinese cuisine, but also a lot of Indian restaurants.

For good Mexican food, Chilango is a great Mexican eatery located at five different places across the city.

We ate at the one in chancery lane 6, and the burritos and nachos were awesome.

Where To Sleep in London:

We recommend Clink 78 hostel, a hostel right next to Kings Cross.

It’s located in a nice area with a village feel to it, with small streets and cozy cafes and pubs.

The staff at the hostel are very helpful and informative, and more than happy to share their local tips and favorite spots around the city.

Ask them anything and they will know, if not they will check it up for you.

You get a big breakfast buffet included in the stay, and they also have a pub downstairs which is very popular with the guests.

If you want to cook your own food there is a big kitchen there as well.

A pretty cool detail about the hostel is that it’s actually a restored 200 year old Courthouse with a few authentic prison cells. and a courtroom used as an internet room.

Get out: Take the scenic train to Wales, and experience the Welsh culture only a few hours away.

And since London is, well, London, cheap flights leave the airport every minute!

(photo credits: Trodel – _dChris)

Weekend in London UK in the Capitals Coolest Spots

When you think of London, you probably think of Big Ben, red buses, Buckingham Palace, shopping at Oxford Street and the many theaters of the West End. But this is only just the beginning.

London is a vibrant and fascinating city, steeped in layers of history and culture.”

Like any international city it’s also constantly changing, and finding the newest spots can tricky for a visitor.

So if you’re keen to scratch beneath the surface of this captivating city and have an extra insight into all the coolest happenings, check out some of our suggestions:

Where to Eat in London

A decade ago London’s King’s Cross was one of the city’s biggest problem areas with drug addicts and prostitutes working the streets and bringing an unwelcoming feeling to the area.

Today though, this has all changed and the area has had huge sums of money spent on it.

As a result King’s Cross is rapidly becoming one of London’s most exciting new places to hang out and among other things is now home to a whole host of fabulous restaurants.

We love Caravan at the Granary Building for Mediterranean style foods, Kerb for street eats (very on trend at the moment!) and the fabulous Plum + Spilt Milk at the Great Northern Hotel, which serves up a mix of modern British cuisine in chic surroundings.

Go For Coffee in London

Hanging out in Coffee shops can be a great way to get a feel for how the locals live and Dalston, in London’s trendy East End, is undergoing a revival right now.

It’s home to many artists and creatives and as a result you’ll find plenty of funky and interesting places to go for coffee.

Café Otto, a specialist music café, is a great choice for a latte and a slice of cake and also worth visiting in the evening for one of their gigs.

Tina We Salute You makes the best cappuccino we’ve found and we also love Betty’s for a relaxed yet funky atmosphere.

Hit the Shops in London

When Olympic fever took over London in 2012 the area around the Olympic park benefited in many ways.

One was the building of the fantastic new Westfield Shopping Centre, which makes shopping in London easier than it has ever been.

The center has all of the major stores, as well as a few welcome surprises and basically is a whole lot less crowded that Oxford Street on a Saturday!

When you’re there head up to the top floor of John Lewis – no not for any pairs of striped pajamas or 12 piece dining sets.

They have a special viewing platform where you get a great view over the Olympic Stadium and on to the rest of London and it’s well worth a look.

Where to Stay in London

The newly renovated Great Northern Hotel at King’s Cross Station is really topping it as London’s coolest hotel right now.

This gorgeous luxury hotel has 91 rooms, all wonderfully chic and beautifully designed and the hotel itself has many quirky reminders of its railway heritage.

There’s a replica train carriage acting as a corridor from the main stairway to the loos and the beds in the most compact size of guest room evoke the classic continental railway sleeper carriage.

All rooms have USB charging points, free in room entertainment and there are pantries on every floor where you can help yourself to home-made cakes and the day’s newspapers.

It’s a fun twist on the traditional railway hotel and we love it.

For Drinks in London

Stoke Newington is rapidly becoming one of the coolest ‘villagey’ places to hang out this side of well… Clissold Park (Stokey’s lovely green space).

Church Street, the main street there, has many nice watering holes ranging from English Pubs, to smart cocktail bars and beyond.

Try the Baby Bathhouse, the Jolly Butchers and Auld Shillelagh.

A night out there is always fun, can be unexpected and you won’t be far from your lovely hotel when you want to jump in a cab home.

Has this article tempted you to take a few steps off the tourist trail on your next trip to London?

Or do you know of any great up and coming spots that we haven’t mentioned?

Please feel welcome to get commenting – we’d love to know!

Visit London for the Street Food Scene

It would be fair to say that in the last year or so, street food has officially become a ‘thing’ when it comes to travelling.

Going to Goa?

You won’t want to miss out on the samosas, chicken and cool drinks from the street vendors on the beach.

Jetting off to Vietnam?

It’s all about Banh mi sandwiches.

Visiting the big apple?

Well, while you’ve pretty much got your choice of anything, you’ll definitely want to sample a serious hot dog or two.

What about London?

The street food scene in London has taken off in the last year or so.

Everywhere you look, people are selling food from market stalls, vans and open air bars.”

So, if finding fabulous places to eat on trendy streets and at pop up stalls galore is what you’re craving, London could be your perfect travel destination.

There are loads of places to try, but a few top picks include:

London Kerb

Kerb is a street food collective based at Kings Cross – perfect if you’ve just arrived from somewhere else in Britain, or hopped off the Eurostar at St. Pancras.

Kerb rotates its traders, so even if you visit every day of your stay in London, you’ll be able to try something new each day!

Check out the selection here.

London Broadway Market

As the coolest East London weekend hangout around, Broadway Market in Hackney is home to some well-established food traders.

Try the quintessentially British bites at Eat My Pies and the beautiful handmade chocolates and cakes at Cocoa&Me to start off with.

Real Food Festival

Once you’ve hit the London Eye, strolled along the river bank and caught a show at the National Theatre, check out the plaza behind the Southbank Centre (a couple of minutes’ walk from Waterloo station).

Feeling flashy?

Go for lobster and chips from the Whitstable Shellfish stall, or, if you’ve had quite enough fish and chips, try a tiny taste of India at the Horn Ok Please van.

A trip centered on street food really makes you feel like a local, so check out some short stay London apartments and sort yourself out with your very own crash pad.

That way, when you come back laden with cheeses, breads and other treats from all the amazing markets you’ve been to, you’ll have a fridge to put them in.

Plus, no one will judge you when you decide that a midnight snack really is a great idea!

Things to do in London for free

London has become the most visited city in the world – whether for business or pleasure, London has a lot to offer any traveler, although it’s not always that easy to figure out what things to do in London.

As famous as Buckingham Palace or its iconic black cabs, London is also known for being a little pricey.

However for those who would like to visit on a budget, you’ll be pleased to know that there are a fair few things to do in London that are completely free.

Staying in London doesn’t have to cost a pretty penny either; there are many London city hotels to choose from that keep prices competitive and wallet friendly.

Things to do in London

London Artwork

London has a range of different museums and art galleries, and you’ll be forgiven for thinking that these prime collections of antiques and modern artwork will cost you a few pennies to visit, however in fact almost all of London’s art galleries and museums offer free entry all year round.

There are many available to suit almost every audience, whether you’re interested in modern art, there’s the Tate Modern that displays pieces from 1900 onwards and changes its displays every 1 to 2 years.

For those looking for a little of world history, and more things to do in London, then pay a visit to the British Museum, which is home to over 7 million antiques.

The world famous British Museum has been open to the public since 1753 and to see all the exhibits would take you around a week.

There are many more museums and galleries in London that are free to visit, so it’s worth exploring to see what history this famous city has to offer.

London Ceremony Of The Keys

The Tower of London is the resting place of the Crown Jewels, and is usually open to the public during the day (£17 for adults and £9.50 per child) however in the evening; the Tower of London’s gates must be secured.

This ceremony has been tradition for over 700 years, free to the public, and is performed by the chief yeoman in his red tunic.

If you apply in advance you are able to escort the warden to the gates.

The Open House Weekend London

In London there are around 700 different sites that aren’t usually open to the public, including sites such as the City Hall, the BT Tower and the Bank of England.

Every September, Open House London gives you the great opportunity to explore these sites completely free of charge.

There are a few places that require pre-booking, so be sure to check which sites these are before you go.

With all the available sites and great things to do in London, there will be a professional or amateur enthusiast willing to guide you around the premises.

Each volunteer will have a recognition badge to determine which sites they can gain access to.

Some of the available buildings may also have their architect on site, ready and willing to give you information about the building itself.

The Simple Outdoors

If you happen to visit London while the weather is nice, then a pleasant and cheap alternative is to visit one of London’s many parks.

The available parks are of course free top explore and offer a great place to enjoy a walk, a picnic or some family sports.

Many have their own lakes and wildlife, Greenwich Park is the oldest royal park, and is used as the starting point for the London marathon.

This park is also home to the royal observatory and was formerly used by the royals for hunting.

There are many parks in and around London that are guaranteed to offer their own unique experience.

If you’re one for bargain hunting, then London is the perfect place to be, with a collection of markets selling everything from second hand clothes to antiques, London’s markets are great for exploring and are free to roam.

The markets will give you first hand experience into such a vibrant culture.

To visit many of London’s attraction would cost you on entrance fees, however why not see London on foot, and see the city while enjoying a leisurely walk.

The majority of London’s major attractions are within walking distance of each other, and with many free self guided tour guides available, you can sight see around the city without reducing the weight of you wallet.

Also if you take a walk along Regent’s Canal, you’ll also be able to see some of London’s zoo animals for free, including giraffes, okapis and red river hogs.

Big Ben

Known to be the most accurate clock in the world, Big Ben or the Great Bell as it’s officially known by is London’s most iconic landmark.

If you’re a UK resident you know what to do: book in advance you can take advantage of a free tour around the clock tower.

Tours take place Monday to Friday at 9:15, 11.15 and 14.15 with a maximum of 16 per tour.

To get a place on the tour you must request to visit through your local MP 3 to 6 months in advance and you must be over the age of 11.

So, now you know a little more about the city and what to do in London once you’re there.

Discovering London – What to Do and Where to Stay

Some destinations are so packed with must see sights that it’s virtually impossible to select which ones to visit.

London is an excellent example of such a destination.

It’s an ancient city that successfully blends a lot of modern glamour alongside venerable locations.

Experiencing it all would require several lifetimes.

That’s why the Discovering London Tour is such an amazing idea and can lead to an awesome UK Celebration.

Rather than being overwhelmed by the prospect of “doing it all” in London in a short space of time, the Discovering London Tour helps tourists get acquainted in a personalized way, and just maybe you might experience the stereotypical London

It just might be the best value for visitors who only want to hit certain highlights or who want to see what London is like beyond the guidebooks.

Each Discovering London Tour is hosted by Peter Berthoud, an expert on the city’s history and culture.

Every tour is unique and tailored to the visitor’s specifications.

That means no scripted dialog and no inflexible routes.

In fact, people who book a tour have final say as to all the stops that the tour will make.

That’s because each tour is for a small, select group.

They choose which sites they want to see and which sights should be left out.

Moreover, because groups are limited in size, many more destinations within the city are able to accommodate them.

Being able to enjoy a professional tour guide without the hassle of a massive group is definitely a major advantage.

With the help of their guide, visitors can craft a few hours or even a few days of superior sightseeing.

All of the major London attractions can be placed on the itinerary.

Alternatively, people who are looking for a more behind the scenes look at the city can request to be taken to places that are off the beaten path.

The result is a highly personalized experience that no one is likely to forget.

As an expert guide, Peter Berthoud can provide visitors with an insider’s view of London.

He shares stories that most people are unfamiliar with, and his conversational style immediately puts people at ease.

Each tour is conducted at the pace the participants request.

That means being able to stop for breaks or allow for a detour if a sight that’s not on the itinerary catches someone’s eye.

These are authentically customized tours that are designed to save the traveler time, money and energy.

For anyone who is unfamiliar with London, these tours can be a lifesaver.

Chances are good that time in the city is limited, so a Discovering London Tour is the best way to maximize the experience.

However, these tours are also beneficial for locals who are hoping to discover a new side to their city.

Peter has spent years developing familiarity with all of London’s twists and turns, and he loves sharing his knowledge with others.

Discovering London Tour

Whether you are a first time visitor or have lived in the city for decades, a Discovering London Tour can be the ideal introduction to a fascinating destination.

London is full of life, vibrant and busy with amazing festivities for all ages.

Discovering London With many cultural events to explore for little or no cost, you can visit art museums such as Tate Modern, the Florence Nightingale Museum, the National Theatre, and take the kids on Harry Potter Tours or spend a day at the London Sea Life Aquarium or the new London Dungeons.

All situated on the South Bank and Bank Side on the Thames River, great hotels, restaurants, pubs, boutiques and markets await those who visit London.

Take in the Art is a Great Way in Discovering London

The Tate Modern, one of the most famous museums in London, is located on South Bank.

Offering a fantastic blend of modern and contemporary art, view artists work by Picasso, Warhol, Pollock, Mattise and Dali.

For nearly 2,000 years South Bank has been home to artisans, entrepreneurs and lovely architecture.

All within walking distance from your hotel, are great restaurants, shops, pubs and beautiful walking paths on the Thames.

Bring the Kids

South Bank is alive with activities for children as well. They will love the Waterloo Carnival, the Sea Life Aquarium, Harry Potter Tours, the Reptile House at the London Zoo and the great underground London Dungeons with rides and shows for all.

In the summertime the streets are filled with activity, particularly festivals with food, amusement park rides and more.

Drink Up!

Just across the Waterloo Bridge on Bank Side, a wonderful busy and vibrant area of London, are pubs once frequented by Charles Dickens- The Rake and The Anchor.

You may also enjoy wine tasting at the Vinopolis, a visit to the Borough Market, an outdoor produce market, and artists shops and book stores for easy browsing.

Catch a Show

Theatres reign in this unique area of London so be sure to take in a show, whether it be Shakespeare or something a bit more contemporary.

Leaving the South Bank area, a stop at Abbey Road where the Beatles made their last album cover is an interesting feature- the Zebra Crossing.

London offers tours of the London Rock and the Beatles Site Tours for all Beatles fans.

Without a visit to the many delightful museums, historical sites, musicals, plays, famous parks, shops and restaurants in London, your holiday would be at a loss.

To locate a place to stay in the area of London you’re visiting,

Stay at one of the amazing hotels in London, this city as much to offer and you can find easily find the perfect room that is just an easy stroll to pubs and restaurants.

Memorable sites such as Tate Modern, the Thames River’s South Bank and Bank Side are sure to catch your breath with history dating back thousands of years.

Top Three Day Trips from London

Day trips from London has plenty of sights and scenes to keep any tourist busy.

If you have the luxury of exploring the city for a week or more, you may want rent a London apartment to create a home away from home.

A longer stay will also grant you the opportunity to explore both the city and some great places a short distance outside of the capital city.

Here are three cities you should check out to get a better feel for what all England has to offer:

Bath

The big draw in Bath is the Roman Baths, built around 2000 years ago.

With interesting exhibits and stunning architecture, the only drawback to this attraction is that you can’t actually jump in!

A better idea is to head just across the street where you can try the unique experience of soaking in Britain’s thermal waters at Thermae Bath Spa, a four story day spa that includes a rooftop pool with sweeping views of the city’s Georgian architecture.

Other famous attractions include the Royal Crescent, which is a series of 18th century houses and lawns and will give you an idea of what life was like in Bath at the time for upper-class residents.

If you’re a fan of Jane Austen, be sure to check out the Jane Austen Center while you’re there.

Brighton

Another place definitely worth checking out if you want to extend your time in London is a coastal trip to Brighton.

A stroll along the beach and the pier offers a breath of fresh air.

The city is also home to the world’s oldest working aquarium.

North Laine and Kensington Gardens are great places to find vintage and flea market treasures, and Brighton’s independent record shops are renown among music lovers.

Of course, one of Brighton’s biggest attractions is the extravagant Royal Pavilion.

It was built for the Prince of Wales, who later became King George IV, with construction beginning in 1787.

The interior design is striking and borrows heavily from Chinese and Indian design and architecture — a stark contrast from the rest of the city.

Oxford

This city is known for the “Dreaming Spires” of its ancient university and medieval churches.

Bibliophiles should head straight to the Bodleian Library, while sporting fans should try their hand at punting — steering a wooden boat down the river with a pole.

If you visit in late March/early April, you might even catch the University Boat Races and witness one of England’s greatest college sporting rivalries between Oxford and Cambridge.

There are also several museums worth visiting and if you love theater, make sure to check out some of the professional theater productions and amateur student shows.

A great way to spend an afternoon in this scholarly town is to peruse the shelves at Blackwell’s Books and the Oxford University Press Bookshop.

5 Money-Saving Attractions In London

There’s never a dull moment for tourists wanting the best of what London has to offer.

With plenty to see and do during the day and London nights out ranging from a cultured evening at the theater to a full-on night on the tiles, it’s very easy for sightseers to quickly lose track of how much they’re spending during their time in the English capital.

Fortunately, there are a plenty of options available to anyone that wants to stay in London on a shoestring budget.

Here are five money-saving attractions well worth checking out:

Camden Markets

Head down Oxford Street, which is Europe’s busiest shopping street, for a spot of retail therapy and the chances are high that you can spend an absolute fortune in no time at all.

Down at Camden Markets, though, there are bargains galore and all in one of London’s most diverse and interesting boroughs.

Peruse the many shops and stalls or just watch the world go by in one of the vibrant cafes, bars and pubs.

Cost: Nothing, unless, of course, something catches your eye in one of the boutiques.

Covent Garden

More glamorous than Camden Markets, Covent Garden is renowned for the street performers that work day and night to thrill the visitors that head there to be entertained as well as wined and dined in style.

If this is not your cup of tea, then just walk around the former fruit and vegetable market, which is now home to many charming and curious independent shops.

And put time aside to watch the artists, jugglers and musicians that line the surrounding streets looking to wow the crowds.

Cost: Free, but you may feel compelled to donate a bit of loose change if one of the street artists impresses you.

Science Museum

An ideal place to head to if you’re holidaying with children or if you’re still a big kid at heart.

Learn all about space travel and more at the Science Museum, where the various hands-on exhibits bring the museum to life.

The Natural History Museum, which is also free, is literally next door and Hyde Park is a short walk away, meaning this particular corner of London is easy on your wallet and fun at the same time.

Cost: Zilch.

Tate Modern

Arguably the best of London’s ‘free’ museums is the Tate Modern, which is located right on the banks of the River Thames over the Millennium Footbridge.

The exhibits will divide opinion and provoke healthy debate in a way no other attraction in the city will.

From the beautiful to the outright bizarre, the Tate Modern has it all.

Cost: Free, although you will have to pay if you want to see the major exhibitions.

The Monument

A hidden gem in London is the Monument, which offers a stunning vista of the city and was built to commemorate the Great Fire of London.

Well, ‘hidden’ is probably not the best word to describe it seen as though it was constructed nearly 350 years ago and is actually the tallest isolated stone column in the world.

Yet it’s commonly overlooked by people that want to see London’s skyline.

However, climb the 311 steps up the mesmerizing spiral staircase and you’ll be greeted by incredible views.

What’s more, it’s a bargain when compared to the fact it costs nearly £20 for an adult to make a revolution on the nearby London Eye.

That’s virtually six times the price for pretty much the same view and by scaling the Monument you also get a bit of exercise thrown in as well, so it’s altogether more rewarding.

3 ways to unwind in London

Given the hustle and bustle of life in London, it’s easy for visitors and locals alike to feel overwhelmed.

Here are the best ways to treat yourself after a hard day’s work or a long day of sightseeing in London:

 Secret Gardens

While not under lock and key, these gardens are lesser known and less well-traveled than some of London’s other parks.

You’ll feel as if you are stepping into a period drama as you explore the Eltham Palace Gardens, with stone bridges over meandering rivers, shady trellises, and great expanses of green lawn.

Isabella Plantation at Richmond Park can only be accessed by foot, and the grounds are stunning when the rhododendrons and azaleas are in bloom.

For a bit of green space within in the city, pop into the Saint Dunstan in the East Church Garden; after the medieval church was bombed out during the Blitz, it was filled with climbing shrubs and a fountain that drowns out the sounds of traffic — a perfect green oasis.

 Tea Time

Nothing is more British — or more soothing — than a proper cuppa tea.

Make reservations well in advance for afternoon tea at Claridge’s for attentive service and meticulous attention to detail, or opt for a homier visit to the Tea Rooms in Stoke Newington, renowned for their scones.

Fortnum and Mason offers tea service on the fourth floor of its Piccadilly store, and visitors can pick up scrumptious treats and sumptuous accessories for relaxing at home.

Spa Day

A spa day is a refuge from the big city – and there is no shortage of places to get pampered in London.

Catering to locals and visiting spa goers from around the world, London is also a great place to try out one or more unique spa treatments:

Synaesthesia treatment – uses music, color, aromatherapy, and massage to promote relaxation.

Herb-based apothecary treatments, with optional courses on natural remedies

Thai Massage treatment – combines massage with assisted stretching

Futuristic pod treatment – float in ultra-salty water kept at body temperature.

The concept here is complete sensory deprivation.

After turning off the light in the pod, guests feel as if they are floating in mid-air.

Most find it relaxing, although those with claustrophobia should stick with a more traditional spa!

Thoughts From A Visit To London

The train ride from Holyhead in Wales to Euston station in London was absolutely stunning.

The country side of England is really special; the stone houses, never ending green hills, golden fields with Rape Seed crops, and farmland with cattle and sheep was a sight far from a bustling world cosmopolitan city like London.

out it wasn’t all that far, since the countryside is only a 20 min train ride away.

But no matter how close it was, stepping off the train in London made that part of England feel very far away.

We didn’t have much time in the city, but only after a few hours we were full of impressions and thoughts about it.

Here is a brief sum-up of how we felt about London and the impressions we got:

The Sprinting People

”Woah, he was in a hurry!” Was the first thing that slipped out of my mouth as we stepped out of the train station and on to the street.

A man in suit and running shoes ran past us as though he was practicing for a marathon – running late for work, I suppose.

Right afterwards, a woman in high heels came running towards us in the opposite direction from the man, I quickly had to jump to the side to give way for her.

What were they running for at this time of the day?

It was neither rush hour, nor lunch time – but everyone seemed to be in a hurry.

Men and women in suits running for their lives to catch a bus or subway, not stopping for anyone.

Many weren’t stressed, but they were still walking really fast and it seemed as though they did everything faster than normal.

In London people simply seemed to live life at a higher pace than what I’m used to.

It’s a contagious thing, and by the end of the day I was walking twice as fast as normal without even noticing.

Small Town Feel

At the same time London really felt like a small town which had grown in size – it didn’t have the feel of big cities like New York with sky lines and organized streets.

The buildings were from all sorts of ages, dating back all the way to 17th century, and the streets were all over the place – it looked I guess exactly what it was: a small city which suddenly had exploded in size and population.

Places To Breathe

If it wasn’t for all the large parks where you can escape the London people would certainly go mad.

But fortunately, London is full of green areas that are well worth a visit, walking down the green alleys around St James park is also a great stroll, and for a moment you forget that you’re in the middle of a cosmopolitan city.

I realized here just how much more of a nature person I am than a city girl.

Big cities stress me out, but as soon as I walk along a green alley, I’m centered again.

Everything Happens Here

For travel, party and fun, I could think of no better place to base yourself in Europe than London.

This is the place you’re likely to find the best travels deals ever.

This is the place where they hold all the awesome concerts and shows.

The locals say that they’re used to it and get very picky, but for a visitor you see all the great opportunities here.

In all, London has it all, but there are consequences.

If you want the awesome nightlife, the many opportunities – you will have to share them with another 8 million people.

London vs New York Which Offers the Better Experience

In the great debate over London vs New York, one concept that many can agree upon is both cities offer experiences unlike any other city in the world.

In essence, each city is a gem, but one may have the upper hand.

London vs New York: The Arts

You couldn’t visit all the museums and theaters in a trip to either city.

To start, if you’re visiting London, you should visit the Tate as well as the National Gallery, each houses exceptional works of art.

Likewise, New York’s Museum of Modern Art and Metropolitan Museum of Art should be on every visitor’s checklist.

Furthermore, if you’re interested in theatrical events, don’t forget to visit the West End in London and while in New York catch a Broadway play.

When it comes to the arts, London and New York both are winners.

New York USA – A Dream for Shoppers

London vs New York: Outdoor River Activities

The Thames and the Hudson rivers feature big-city ports, but also the quiet splendor of an upriver setting.

You can take in the Thames or the Hudson while walking, cycling, and boating, but free public events highlight each river’s draw.

All eyes were on the Thames with the excitement of the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee and the grandeur of its flotillas.

Then again, the Hudson has Fleet Week, an annual tradition with visiting ships that take over the river and air shows that take over the skies.

As a result, it’s a draw with both cities taking full advantage of waterway activities.

Roundhouse – BBC Electric Proms from LondonTown.com

London vs New York: Live Music and Historical Appreciation

While rich in musical history, each city also offers live music events that rival each other. Nevertheless, the gradual loss of historically significant clubs in New York, such as CBGBs and Fillmore East, is devastating to music fans.

Although Jimi Hendrix and Pink Floyd played the latter, it’s now an apartment complex.

In contrast, the Roundhouse of North London, also hosting Jimi and Pink Floyd, did not wane into oblivion—despite its decline in the 80s.

Instead, the Roundhouse can hold up to 4,000 attendees for an event.

Moreover, it features rehearsal spaces in addition to recording and television studios for youth projects.

With this effort, London scores for rebuilding history and investing in the next generation.

If you seeking a place to stay in North London go to Hotel Direct for great options and cost.

In the end London vs New York, both London and New York are extraordinary, but the city that appreciates its history and its future is the city that wins overall.

Guide to 4 of London’s Most Haunted Destinations

If you have an interest in the paranormal and love nothing more than going in search of otherworldly encounters, London is the perfect place to indulge your penchant.

Aside from the spooky settings of the Tower of London and the dungeons, there are many more reputedly haunted destinations off the beaten track.

Bleeding Heart Yard

The cobbled courtyard off Greville Street in the historic area of Farringdon reportedly takes its names from an inn sign displayed nearby, showing the heart of the Virgin Mary being pierced by five blades.

However, another story has been reported with regards to how the area received its name; according to urban legend, the name was drafted to commemorate the death of Lady Elizabeth Hatton, whose body is said to have been found in the courtyard in 1626, with her limbs dismembered yet the heart still pumping blood.

The Langham

London’s prestigious five-star hotel The Langham is known as one of England’s most haunted hotels, home to up to seven ghosts that have been seen by various guests in the establishment’s long history.

Opened in 1865, the site of the hotel was previously occupied by a mansion owned by the third Lord Foley.

Among the guests reporting paranormal activity were members of the BBC, who occupied the building for a period of time.

Guests reported having seen a grey-haired Victorian man said to be the spirit of a doctor who killed himself after murdering his wife during their honeymoon at the hotel.

Another ghost has taken the shape of a footman in blue livery from the 18th century.

The most famous of the spirits said to haunt the hotel is the ghost in Room 333, which was seen by BBC radio announcer Alexander Gordon in 1973.

According to his report, the spirit was dressed in Victorian attire, its arms outstretched and its legs cut off.

City of London Cemetery

The Grade I-listed landscape of London’s cemetery and crematorium dates back to 1856 and is the final resting place of some of Jack the Ripper’s victims, but it wasn’t until the 1970s that reports began flooding in of locals witnessing some strange goings-on at the location.

During the decade, people in the surrounding area reported seeing a bright orange light shining out of one of the tombstones in the cemetery’s western section, but investigations have failed to pinpoint any light source outside the grounds that could account for the occurrence.

50 Berkeley Square

Located in Mayfair, 50 Berkeley Square is an 18th century townhouse that was home to prime minister George Canning between 1770 and 1827, becoming known as the most haunted house in London after being mentioned in Peter Underwood’s book Haunted London.

Legend has it that the attic room of the building is haunted by a young woman who killed herself in the building, throwing herself from the window after suffering abuse, and it is reported that she has the power to scare people to death.

Among the tales told of the building is that of a maid who spent the night in the attic and was driven mad, dying in an asylum the following day, while a nobleman who stayed in the room was pronounced dead the next day.

Another rumor suggests a second nobleman was so paralyzed with fear after spending a night in the attic that he could no longer speak, and a sailor was found dead at the property after tripping as he tried to flee.

Climbing and Scrambling for Adventure Lovers in the Lake District

The Lake District offers some of the most spectacular scenery in the UK and provides an opportunity for adventure lovers of all ages to reconnect with nature.

For those searching for holidays that include a real sense of adventure, the Lake District is the ideal destination.

You don’t have to leave Britain to have a holiday fit for even the most daring of thrill seekers.

The Lake District offers plenty of climbing and scrambling opportunities, so if you have a head for heights, don’t hesitate to get involved.

Scrambling in the Lake District for Adventure Lovers

Scrambling is somewhere between walking and climbing. Scramblers can avoid busy routes up mountains by using climbing techniques and due to the use of these skills, it can be a dangerous pastime.

If you’re a beginner, take note of how certain scrambles are graded.

A grade 1 scramble is more like an exposed walking route but as the numbers ruse, you will definitely need the support of a rope.

Scrambles follow lines of weakness in the land, so if you’re unsure of how to start a route, look for the easiest way up, and take that.

If you’re meant to be on a low-grade scramble and the terrain suddenly becomes very difficult to navigate, it’s likely that you’ve veered off course.

The correct footwear is absolutely essential so choose boots with a stiff, inflexible sole.

These must be worn for scrambling even in warm weather, as they will protect your feet when finding holds in cracked rock and when loose rock falls on them.

For grade 2 and 3 scrambles, take at least 30 meters of role, HMS karabiners and some eight foot slings.

Top scrambling destinations in the Lake District include Leeming Farm in Penrith and More Than Mountains, encompassing several locations around Cumbria is for adventure lovers.

Climbing in the Lake District for Adventure Lovers

There are plenty of climbing opportunities in the Lake District, and not just on indoor walls.

For climbers who wish to experience some outdoor action, it’s important to remember that most accidents occur due to climber errors.

Always check that the climber and belayer’s harness buckles are doubled back and that the knots are ‘tie-ins’, finished with backup knots. Never climb without a helmet.

It’s important to pay attention to your surroundings while climbing, as a loss of concentration can increase the likelihood of an accident occurring.

Experienced climbers should check out Little Chamonix in Shepherds Crag Borrowdale, Engineers Slab in Gable Crag and Troutdale Pinnacle in Black Crag Borrowdale.

To book your Lake District adventure lovers holiday and experience some real adventure, visit www.sllodges.co.uk

Denbighshire: Jewel of the U.K.

There is so much to do and see in the very historic area of Denbighshire.

The below Infographic is but a snap shot of places of interest and things for you to do on your visit to Denbighshire.

We encourage you to go online and download PDF’s about the history and significant places of interests within Denbighshire.

Welcome to Denbighshire!

Welcome To Denbighshire – An infographic by the team at www.digitaldenbighshire.co.uk

Long Weekend in Vienna offers an exciting mix of imperial grandeur, cultural gems and lively nightlife.

It’s one of the great European cities and enchants its visitors with an endless list of attractions and iconic sights.

If you’re planning to visit for a few days, you’ll want to explore as much as you can.

For some inspiration, we’ve put together the perfect three day itinerary.

Long Weekend in Vienna

Visiting the city’s major sights and landmarks is a great introduction to Vienna, best done at the start of your long weekend in Vienna when you’ve got plenty of energy.

Sightseeing tours are an easy and affordable way to cram in as many activities as possible in a short space of time.

A bus tour departs daily from the city opera house with many stops along the way, where you can hop on and off at your own leisure.

One of the most popular attractions includes St. Stephen’s Cathedral.

This dramatic piece of architecture was started during the 12th century, but wasn’t fully completed until almost 300 years later.

It houses some precious works of art and you can even experience one of the daily church services.

The square in front of the cathedral, known as Stephansplatz, is a great place to relax and take the weight off your feet.

Marvel at the unique street performers or indulge in one the city’s most famous culinary delights, Sachertorte.

All of the cafes serve up this heavenly chocolate cake dessert with apricot jam, usually served with lashings of whipped cream.

It’s just the sugar rush you’ll need to continue with your sightseeing extravaganza.

From here, visit another spectacular feat of architecture, the Hofburg Imperial Palace which was built in the 13th century.

This opulent building has been home to some of Europe’s most influential royal families, and is now home to a museum which showcases a collection of imperial household objects.

Now you’ve got all the sightseeing out of the way, it’s time to enjoy a cold drink at one of city’s watering holes.

Some of the best can be found in the trendy area, Bermudadreieck.

It’s also known as the Bermuda Triangle, where patrons are known to get lost in the many bars, only to stumble out a few days later sporting a very bad hangover.

Of course, you can practice moderation at one of the many pubs which play live music into the early hours.

Long Weekend in Vienna Day 2

It’s now time to explore some of the city’s vibrant culture with a visit to some of its famed museums.

Located close to the Imperial Palace, you’ll find one of the ten largest cultural quarters in the world, Museum Quarter.

This sprawling complex is home to The Museum of Natural History, which has some impressive exhibits including fossils from the ice age and a digital planetarium.

Art fanatics will love an afternoon at the Museum of Modern Art or the Leopold Museum—a treasure-trove of masterpieces including the largest Egon Schiele collection in the world.

Once you’ve got your cultural fix, you can enjoy a late lunch or early dinner at the museum’s hip and urbane Café Leopold.

During the summer, the terrace has stunning views over a picturesque courtyard.

In the evenings, the venue transforms into a funky hangout complete with DJ’s and a dance floor.

If you’re looking for something a little more refined, head to the Vienna State Opera House, which hosts a huge range of world-renowned productions.

With a different program every day of either ballet or opera, there’s plenty to choose from but be sure to book in advance so you don’t miss out.

Alternatively, head to the beautiful concert hall Musikverein for a night of classical music from the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra.

Long Weekend in Vienna Day 3

For the last day of your long weekend in Vienna, to get an authentic taste of Vienna, explore the city by bicycle, like many of the locals.

The city boasts over 1000 kilometers of bike paths and there’s plenty of tour operators providing rental.

It’s a great way to explore the old city and visit some of the attractions you may have missed on day one, including the Parliament building and the national theater of Vienna.

Be sure to stop at one of the street food stands or cafe which are common throughout the city.

Your trip won’t be complete without sampling one of the local delicacies, Käsekrainer.

This sausage oozes with melted cheese and is best washed down with a cold beer.

If you’re looking for a healthier option, head to the famed deli, Tongues.

Organic veg and locally sourced produce is at the forefront of their menu of hearty, healthful dishes for surprisingly low prices.

To finish your city break in style, why not treat yourself to a shopping splurge.

Mariahilfer Straße is the best spot—a mile of boutique retailers alongside sprawling department stores and high end designers.

Alternatively, pay a visit to the city’s largest open-air market, the Naschmarkt, to grab yourself a bargain.

There’s plenty of food stalls selling delicious produce or you can do your best to find an antique treasure.

It’s also a great place to find that quirky souvenir.

It’s now time to relax, enjoy one last slice of cake and reflect on your awesome break in Vienna.

Three days isn’t a long time to explore Austria’s capital but with this itinerary you can’t go wrong.

Images by jarmoluk, dantetg and Duroy.George used under the Creative Commons license.

Vienna Austria City Guide VIDEO

So the week started in Vienna, the beautiful, clean Vienna which to me reminds me of yummy cup cakes.

Some places are almost too pretty and perfect, like the huge Schönbrunn Palace and park with its perfectly cut lawn.

I could almost see the women walking around the park in the poofy, fluffy 18th century dresses – for me just like cup-cakes.

Nathan and I both have a MASSIVE crush on Austria – last time we were there we spent some time in the countryside, up in the alps, and we fell in love with the country straight away.

The snowy alps with year-round skiing, the green valleys and turquoise lakes, and Vienna with its amazing historical architecture – the country brings you back to a romanticized past, and you don’t want to leave anytime soon.

To read more about our time in Vienna, make sure you check out:

Things to Do In Vienna Austria (City Guide)

On the surface Vienna is elegant, traditional, and slow moving – however, dig a little deeper and you’ll find that it’s also bohemian, trendy, and a place to party all night long.

Vienna’s elegance and tradition are centrally located in the Inner City, or more formally, the First District.

In its 3.01 kilometer of space you’ll find stunning architecture made up of palaces, museums, theaters, and churches.

Most tourists stay in this small area of Vienna to see the major sights, then head out thinking that’s all there is.

Pity, those people missed out on seeing what Vienna is really about.

To do that, you have to get out of the Inner City and head over to the districts that surround it.

There’s the Naschmarkt (meaning snack market) where to locals go to dine.

There’s the 7th district with its huge shopping street and bohemian flair made up of funky coffeehouses and local designers.

Even further out, in the 19th district, is a strong wine culture with vineyards in the city limits.

After a long day of touring the city, a round of all-night partying awaits in multiple pubs, trendy bars and restaurants, and dance clubs – Vienna is a versatile town that has so much more to offer than people think.

Dining Out in Vienna

The dining scene in Vienna has exploded over the last few years.

The city now offers cuisine from every part of the world to appease every budget.

Traditional Austrian cuisine is a rich, satisfying fare.

Go to Café Central or Bettel Student, both of which are in the Inner City, reasonably priced, and consistently good.

Eating at a würstelstand (sausage stand) is a must.

The best is in front of the Albertina Museum.

Order your sausage with a side of bread and an Austrian Ottakringer beer.

Vienna coffeehouses are an institution.

Go in the morning and order a Viennese breakfast.

In the afternoon go to Oberlaa for the best cakes in town.

If you’re looking for a more formal dining experience, go to Plachutta and order the tafelspitz.

Doing the Tourist Thing

Amazing Austrian Lakes – I really love this pic, it sums up the best memories of when we were in Austria in the spring time.

The Inner City contains almost all of the “must sees” of Vienna.

St. Stephen’s Cathedral is in the middle of the city and the elevator ride to the top offers a nice view.

The Hofburg – Imperial Palace has multiple tours, but take the Imperial Apartments Sisi Museum tour due to its refreshing honesty about the famous Austrian Empress.

Vienna is the birthplace of the coffeehouse and The Sacher Café is the most prominent with its famous Sachertorte.

Pair the sweet torte with a strong cup of Viennese coffee and the sugar and caffeine rush will keep you buzzing for hours.

To see all the other sights ride the Vienna Ring Tram which is a good value.

There are two important sights outside of the Inner City.

The first is the Schönbrunn Palace.

It offers a 30 and 60 minute tour, but go for the shorter one and spend the rest of the time walking the beautiful gardens.

A little secret about the palace is that it has the world’s oldest zoo on its premises and is a great treat for families.

For hot summer afternoons when touring is done, find the public pool where the chic set of Vienna go to cool off.

The other sight is the Giant Ferris Wheel at the Prater.

Lines can be long and to be honest, it isn’t worth the wait.

Photo opportunities from the ground looking up at the wheel can be really nice though.

Off the Beaten Path

Get off the tourist track to start hanging out where the locals are.  Right outside of the Inner City is the Naschmarkt.

Put up with the crowds and walk at a slow pace to see all the exotic edibles on display.

Buy only nibble sized quantities as prices can be high.

To satisfy your hunger go behind the stalls to the diverse restaurants and dine with the Viennese.

Some of the places can be a good value like Tewa, which is stand 672.

On Saturdays the Naschmarkt expands to include Europe’s largest flea market.

It’s fun to poke through all the dusty knickknacks but the items are overpriced.

Note that the Naschmarkt is closed on Sundays and holidays.

From Naschmarkt walk to the bordering bohemian 7th district which is called Neubau.

Within a few blocks is Vienna’s biggest shopping street, Mariahilferstraße.

The usual suspects like H&M and Zara are present, but the department store Peek & Cloppenburg has a flagship location which offers the best shopping opportunities.

If you want something original, check out young designers on Zollergasse.

Then head east to hit the MuseumsQuartier to grab some culture, coffee, and just hang out.

Experiences & Events

Vienna is a great town to explore on foot.

The Vienna Sight Running tour is a unique experience if you’re a jogger or just need to burn off the Austrian sausage, beer, and tortes.

If the thought of jogging makes you woozy, dance away the night during Ball Season.

Vienna hosts over 450 balls each year and is one of the most authentic experiences a tourist can participate in.

They are a great way to get into sections of buildings that are normally closed to see dazzling displays of imperial interior design.

Despite the formal setting and a very strict dress code (men must be in tuxedos and women must wear floor-length gowns) balls are anything but stuffy.

Prepare for a long night of dancing, live music, and fun.

Tip: Balls vary in expense and experience.

The Emperor’s Ball is expensive and touristy so skip it.

The Opera Ball might be the most famous but comes off as tacky due to the media circus around it.

The Vienna Philharmonic Ball is the most elegant and despite a high ticket price, is absolutely worth it.

Most Viennese tend to flock toward the Flower Ball, Coffeehouse Owner Ball, and the Bonbon Ball due to fantastic locations and respectable ticket prices.

Vienna Nightlife

Nightlife in Vienna isn’t obvious even though the party week starts Wednesdays and on weekends goes all night long.

25 hours has a laid back bar with a DJ, good vibe, and cheap drinks.

There is nothing special about lutz except for the fact that it somehow manages to be a cool bar, but skip the club scene.

Sofitel is a very sophisticated bar that offers the absolute best view of Vienna.

To go dancing Volksgarten-Pavillon and Albertina Passage are the places to be.

On Fridays and Saturdays don’t show up earlier than midnight.

Getting There and Away

Vienna’s airport is small but efficient.

Ryan Air is a great, cheap carrier that flies to and from Vienna from other European cities.

Train travel is offered by the ÖBB but check out Eurolines first for great prices on clean, punctual buses with laptop plugs and sometimes WIFI.

Vienna, Austria – The Capital Of Café Culture

Nathan and I both have a MASSIVE crush on Austria – last time we were there we spent some time on the countryside, up in the alps and in the cities, and we fell in love with the country straight away.

The snowy alps with year-round skiing, the green valleys and turquoise lakes, and Vienna with its amazing historical architecture – brings you back to a romanticized past, and and a place you don’t want to leave anytime soon.

Vienna is the capital of Austria, and it’s also the capital of cafe culture.

Few places take their cafe culture as serious as Vienna, and out of all the museums, theaters and opera’s, the Kaffeehäuser (coffee houses) were the one thing I looked forward to revisiting the most.

The coffee house culture is a big part of Viennesse history and culture, and with well over 2,000 cafes in the city you have a lot to choose from.

Coffee has been served in Vienna since the 17th century, making the coffee houses some of the oldest in the western world.

There are all kinds of cafes, from traditional 19^th century baroque cafes to modern or futuristic cafes.

Personally I really loved the traditional cafes, where the waiters are dressed in dinner jackets, the interior is in dark wood and red garment, and with an atmosphere so cozy and welcoming that people sit for hours on end reading, writing and trading gossip over a cup of coffee.

In Sweden – where I’m from – coffee culture is also very important, and in my family we’re brought up to have “coffee breaks” (fika) with cakes at least once a day – so perhaps that was why I really enjoyed how Vienna had not only preserved their old coffee culture and traditions, but truly valued it.

Since I used to work as a barista I know a bit about coffee, but in Vienna I was lost!

The list of coffees to order was endless, and there were some that I had never even heard of before.

A must try are the Viennesse cakes, especially the famous Sacher torte.

If not for the taste, then for its history, the Sacher torte has become one of the most famous cakes of Vienna and cafes in town have fought each other for decades over the most ”original” Sacher Torte.

But it’s not all about cakes and coffee in Vienna, the city itself looks pretty like a cake.

The Schönbrunn palace with its gigantic manicured gardens, Burg Theater and Hofburg palace made it easy to dream yourself away a few hundred years back and imagine what things were like then, with Mozart sipping a coffee in a corner cafe, and empress Sisi walking around the gardens of her palace.

Vienna is for the indulging and dreamy type people – in other words, perfect for me… how about you?

Making The Most Of Austria Guide

Austria is one of the most beautiful countries in Europe, with its magnificent Alpine landscape and beautiful villages scattered over the country, not to mention the beautiful cities Salzburg and Vienna.

Here are some tips on how to make the most of your time in Austria…

Hang out in the Coffee Houses

With its historical buildings, castles, opera houses and theaters, Vienna is a very special city, art and classical music fans especially enjoy it.

But the best way to really get to know the culture is to sit down at one of the many coffee houses with a cup of coffee and one of the famous Viennese cakes like Sacher Torte.

Vienna has one of the oldest cafe cultures in Europe, and the coffee houses are one of the most important places for the locals to meet, relax and hang out.

Take a hike

The nature in Austria is absolutely stunning, and in the Alps there are plenty of opportunities for enjoying the nature to the fullest.

Summer, late spring and early autumn is perfect for hiking, while you can enjoy some of the best skiing in Europe during winter.

With countless hiking trails, you have a lot to choose from. Some hikes can last for several weeks, while others a day or just an hour.

It’s up to you and what you want to do.

If you just want to take a nice and easy walk and explore the nature, there are many opportunities to do that too.

Stay At The Sound of Music Hotel

Salzburg with its musical festival is a big draw for visitors.

It is also the location where most scenes in the classical movie “The Sound of Music” was staged, and today you can even stay in the very same house that used to belong to the Von Trapp family which the movie is based on!

These are just three of many things to do in Austria, we hope you enjoy your time in this beautiful country!

Things To Do in Vienna Austria

Vienna is such a romantic city, not only does it have the most romantic history, but with so many white buildings, picturesque coffee shops, wineries, beautiful parks and old castles it makes this place perfect for a romantic weekend – even for budget travelers.

Staying in Vienna is cheaper than most other capital cities in western Europe, and there are some great hostels around.

We booked a hotel room for 18,5 Euro per person (which is cheaper than the price of an average dorm in Europe – if you want the name of the hotel, just ask in the comments below), and got great value for the money.

Things To Do in Vienna Austria Things To Eat

There are some great local delicacies to try in Vienna the Capital of Austria, and you can probably spend a whole weekend going between cafes.

Here are a few of the must-tries:

Viennese Cakes

Vienna is famous for its delicious cakes.

The Sacher Torte is heavenly, and you can try these little dreams in Aida Café Konditorei.

It’s a cafe pastry chain which serves the most delicious cakes, and the environment couldn’t be better – pink, sweet and fluffy decor all around!

Viennese Coffee

Vienna is world famous for their coffee, and you simply won’t get enough of it.

Try their coffee in the typical old fashioned cafe Hawelka or Kaffe Alt Wien.

Here you’ll experience more of the authentic Viennese style cafe with smokey dark wood, and they have kept the old Viennese coffee customs.

Another old cafe in traditional style is Kleine Kafe. Just remember to order the coffee in Viennese style: “Ein kleiner brauner” (Viennese coffee with milk) or “Ein kleiner schwartzer” (back Viennese coffee).

Viennese Wine

Vienna is the world’s only big city with a significant wine industry, with over 700 hectares of vineyards.

You can try the Viennese wine in many bars and restaurants in town.

Viennese Cheese

Austria and cheese go hand in hand, and the cheese is simply amazing.

There are quite a few local tiny markets around, but the Naschtmarket is a bigger and the most famous one.

There you can try heaps of different samples before you choose your favorite cheese – trust me you will find it…

Things To Watch in Vienna

Art, music and culture have a long history in Vienna, and many of the world’s best artists, philosophers, musicians and composers hung out here.

If you want to get an even deeper understanding of the city and get a more broad view of the place, visit an opera, theater or musical show.

This also really enhances the experience of being in Vienna and walking among the same buildings the musicians got their inspiration from – the connection between the city and music is so clear!

Choose between the world’s best classical orchestra; Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra, one of the many amazing theaters, or why not a typical Viennese operetta?

There are people dressed up in cloaks and costumes on the streets selling concert tickets, sometimes you can get better deals with them if you’re good at bargaining. 😉

Things To Visit in Vienna

St Stephen’s Cathedral

If you’re going to see one church in Vienna it ought to be this one.

It’s a beautiful Romanesque Gothic cathedral with colored tile roof and nice details.

If you get up in the tower you can get a neat view of Vienna.

Schönbrunn Schloss

This big palace that today is a UNESCO world cultural heritage site, used to be a summer house for the monarchs in the old days.

The history of this place dates back all the way to the 17th century.

It has a huge sculpted garden with a maze and botanic flowers.

Coming here you get a sneak peek into what the rich people’s lives were like in the old days.

This is a big tourist attraction so either book a tour in advance or count for a long time in line to get in.

Walking Around Vienna

Just walking around Vienna and looking at impressive buildings is half the fun of being there, the buildings give such a romantic touch and it feels like you’re stepping back in time a few centuries.

I really recommend you to put on some comfortable shoes, bring a map and start walking.

In the central area there are heaps of nice buildings to see:

• The Parliaments building
• Vienna Rathaus
• Hofburg
• Volktheater
• Opera
• Natural History Museum
• The Stadt park (with over-the-top looking statues)
• Burgtheater

Pretty much every shop is closed on Sundays, so these days are perfect for some museum touring and simply walking the streets.

If you cook your own food, make sure to buy all you need the day before – it can get pretty hard finding an open supermarket on Sundays – trust us, we spent hours doing this.

We were in Innsbruck Austria Capital Of The Alps!

What was supposed to be a comfortable 1.5 hr train ride through the Alps to Innsbruck, instead turned out to be a 5 hour train ride in the wrong direction.

Because of an avalanche on the track the train had to take a ridiculously long way around, going in the completely wrong direction (via Munich).

The train we would be taking instead also got canceled, and 2 hours later we were still at the same station, wishing we would have hired a car for the day instead.

When we finally arrived late in the afternoon we were absolutely exhausted, but as soon as we walked out of the train station, our mood lightened up:

Many cities don’t live up to your expectations, so we usually try not to have any at all, but when it came to Innsbruck we couldn’t help but to expect something great – and I’m happy to say that Innsbruck definitely lived up to its reputation…

Innsbruck Austria Capital Of The Alps!

Innsbruck has everything any other typical city has: an Old Town, museums, tourist attractions and incredible churches – but there is one thing that makes this place stand out from most other cities in the world: The Alps.

Known as the capital of the Alps, Innsbruck is one of the largest ski resorts in the Alps, giving you the best of both worlds: a vibrant city-life and stunning nature.

No matter what direction you look, majestic snow-capped mountains dominate the view, giving you access to 7 ski fields and a great free ride park in winter, and in summer plenty of walking trails along with one of the best mountain bike tracks in Europe.

You don’t really realize how close the ski fields and sport opportunities are until you see people in their full ski gear walking down the main street, on their way to the slopes.

Innsbruck Austria Views

The abundant nature and beautiful mountains surrounding you makes it impossible even for the most stubborn of urban people to resist the urge to get up high.

Innsbruck is all about the views, and there are plenty of places to get them; Bergsiel ski jump, the City tower and Nordkette are just a few of them.

We took the Nordkettenbahn up to the ski field, sat down in the sun chairs and embraced the view.

There is something about getting above a city and seeing it from a distance that truly makes you appreciate it, and getting a look over the endless number of mountain peaks reaching out to the horizon, makes you feel very small.

Innsbruck Austria Cupcake Buildings & Other Yummy Sweets

 Painted in pastel colors of green, yellow, pink and blue, the buildings reminded me of cupcakes, and the white fluffy decorations made the icing on the cake.

Walking around the warren of cobble stoned streets in the Old Town, soaking up the atmosphere and enjoying a coffee and cake in the sun at an outdoor seating was a great way to spend a day in the city.

Talking about coffee, Austria has one of the oldest cafe cultures in Europe, and the cakes are to die for!

While the cafe culture really derives from Vienna, it’s flourishing in Innsbruck as well.

The famous cafe in Vienna which invented the Sacher torte can be found in this city too, and on the opposite side of that cafe is another cafe specializing in what Austria is perhaps even more famous for: the strudel…

Innsbruck Austria Cupcake

We stuffed ourselves full of different types of strudel (there is more than just apple flavor!), ice cream and cakes until we couldn’t take another bite, and then continued exploring the streets of Innsbruck.

In many ways, Innsbruck reminded me of my home town, which is probably why I felt so “at home” there.

It is hard to pin-point exactly what it was that reminded me of Gothenburg, but I think it was the relaxed and friendly vibe, one that you find more often in places that are larger than towns but smaller than cosmopolitan cities – a vibe that you find in places like Innsbruck.

Innsbruck Kicked Us Out … Where To Next?

After spending 1 month in Innsbruck we realized the city didn’t want us hanging around anymore – it was kicking us out!

Having to take care of thousands of new students desperate for a place to stay, Innsbruck simply didn’t have time to deal with us as well.

So after two full weeks of apartment searching, we decided that while we really liked the city, it just wasn’t meant to be.

Apartments were taken within hours of being put online.

The students were desperate for ANYTHING!

We were not …

This photo was taken in a small village in the Austrian alps.

And is living proof that places like in those old fairy tales still exist today – we loved the outdoor lifestyle there and could hardly leave – Sound Of Music anyone???

small village in the Austrian alps

We didn’t want to share a room in someone’s home, or pay €1500 extra just to get hold of an apartment – so we have decided to move on, or more precisely, we’re moving north into the wild..!

Ok, perhaps that was a “little” exaggerated, but the place we’ve decided to move to is one of those places you would like to find yourself in when the rest of the world falls apart – so what better place to spend the end of 2012 than in Norway? ;P

Norway is a country we both have been longing to see more of, and we’re looking forward to see if it really is what everyone always claims; the most beautiful country in the world.

Having found a great 2 room apartment in Trysil (Norway’s biggest ski resort) located only 3 mins from the slopes, we decided to just go for it and spend the next 6 months in Norway.

That’s the blessing and the curse with being able to be wherever you want – a blessing because you can do whatever the hell you want, but a curse for the very same reason.

The students in Innsbruck HAD to make it work, we didn’t – so we moved on.

Sometimes, having too many options makes it more difficult than if there was only one way to go.

Getaway with Skyscanner Innsbruck Austria

After our trip to Bergamo in Italy, we continued with Skyscanner to Innsbruck in Austria, our final destination – Innsbruck is an old city surrounded by the Austrian alps, and it really is the perfect city for a wonderful weekend getaway!

Check out our video from a day exploring Innsbruck below:

Getaway with Skyscanner & Going Full Circle

After Portugal, we continued for a 4 day weekend getaway with Skyscanner to Bergamo, before continuing to our “final destination” Innsbruck, Austria.

Flying “Everywhere”

We often find it very time-consuming looking for good flight deals, especially when it doesn’t really matter where you go, only where you travel from.

We experienced this problem again earlier this summer when looking for a flight from Asia to Europe – it didn’t matter where in Europe we ended up, as long as we got there.

Back then we didn’t know that Skyscanner had this “Everywhere” feature where all you had to do was to enter the destination you flew from, and they would find the best deals to destinations all over the world from your airport.

We spent days searching airport to airport to compare the prices, something which would have easily been done in a few minutes with this feature.

This time around, we tried the feature for the first time, and found a great deal to Bergamo, and from there continuing to Innsbruck.

Perfect!

Bergamo – Going Full Circle With As We Travel

It was kind of funny that Skyscanner would be taking us to Bergamo, because this was the first city we traveled to when we first started As We Travel over 2.5 years ago.

Arriving in this gorgeous city brought back a lot of memories from that time, when we had barely enough money to get by, and when As We Travel was nothing but three blog posts and a hope for a better future.

Our journey from where it all began has been long and crazy, and we have treasured every moment, so it was really incredible to be back where we started.

But walking along the streets we both had that strange feeling when a period of your life is about to end, and a new one about to begin.

Everything in our lives have worked in threes – every 3 years, our lives have changed and started going in a new direction.

We have the feeling that things are about to change once again, that we’re about to take a different turn, and our blog will change with us.

Kind of scary, but very exciting at the same time!

Travelers Settling Down

After our weekend in Bergamo, we continued with Skyscanner to Innsbruck, a stunning city which everyone who visits instantly falls in love with.

With dramatic mountain peaks surrounding you in every direction, a beautiful old town, outgoing people and the most delicious pastries, it’s hard not to love this place.

In fact, we liked it so much we decided to try and settle down to live there for the next six months.

If there is one change we know will happen with As We Travel, it’s the way we travel.

We need to slow things down, stay in places for longer, or simply settle down and take smaller trips from there.

Traveling full time is an incredible experience, but it certainly has its downsides.

Salzburg – It’s More Than Just About Mozart

There are two things associated with Salzburg: the all-time classic movie “The Sound of Music”,  and the legendary composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart – and while “The Sound of Music” has some epic scenes shot in Salzburg, and Mozart really fits into the spirit of Salzburg, there is more to this city than just that.

Nevertheless, Mozart is a big part of the city, so let’s start with the influences he had on the streets and history …

The Mozart Obsession

Salzburg is known as the city where Mozart was born and raised, something which they’re eager to point out: with streets named after him and statues built of him, the whole city breathes Mozart.

His childhood home and the house where he lived later on in life are both attractions to visit (Mozarts Gebursthaus and Mozart Wohnhaus), as well as streets, bridges (Mozartsteg), squares (Mozartplatz), buildings and statues (Mozart Monument).

These however, aren’t the only things named after Mozart – there is even a special sweet dedicated to the composer: Mozartkugeln.

Literally translated to “Mozart balls” (not even kidding!), this tasty treat is a specialty of Salzburg and a must when visiting the city.

With a ball of pistachio in the middle covered in nougat and a chocolate coating on top, this chocolate candy melts in your mouth.

The Mozartkugeln can be bought everywhere, and you usually won’t have to walk more than a few meters down the road until you see a shop filled with Mozartkugeln in different packagings.

But while the shops with the brightest windows might look the most inviting, they usually sell them much more expensively, so if you want ‘more balls for you buck’ just get them at the supermarket instead.

The Old Town

Salzburg’s old town is small, charming and quite confusing.

The narrow, winding streets are like a maze, but part of the fun is to get lost in them and just explore the little alleys, many squares and cafes dotted along the way.

The beautiful world famous baroque architecture of the Old Town really adds to the atmosphere and is now listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Two streets not to miss are Goldgasse and the Getreidegasse – Gold Gasse is a small, narrow lane well-known for its antique shops, galleries and book shops.

With medieval and baroque buildings lined along the curving street, it looks very picturesque.

Getreidegasse, also known as Grain Lane, is another beautiful street in Salzburg, and dating back to Roman times it’s one of the oldest in Salzburg.

What makes this street so pretty and unique are the many creative wrought iron signs that hang above each shop.

Each sign illustrates the profession or business of the shop, an old tradition that was used in the days when most people were illiterate.

These signs can be seen all over the Old Town, but no street has as many and as beautiful signs as Getreidegasse – this is also the street where you will find Mozarts Gebursthaus, the house where Mozart was born.

Today it’s a popular museum devoted to Mozart and his family.

Some other great places to visit are Mirabell Gardens (with the quirky dwarf gardens) and Salzburg Castle which provides amazing views over the city and surrounding valleys.

Eating and Drinking

Mozart balls aren’t the only sweets Salzburg has to offer – in fact, for the sweet toothed there is something much bigger – and crazier – on the menu.

Salzburg’s signature dish is a dessert called Salzburger Nockerln.

It’s one of the strangest desserts I’ve had, and I can’t quite describe what it tastes like – only that it kind of disappears in your mouth.

Always made in a portion large enough for two, the Nockerln is a sweet puffy soufflé made of egg yolk, flour, sugar and vanilla, mixed into a big dough with stiff egg whites that is then baked under low heat in the oven.

Often it’s served with raspberry sauce in the bottom of the plate.

Some places that serve Salzburger Nockerln are Zum Mohren (used to have guests such as Mozart and Franz Schubert), S’Nockerl (a new modern restaurant) and St. Peter Stiftkeller (who claim to be the oldest restaurant in Europe, dating back to year 803!).

For drinks, Salzburg has some excellent beer, with many cute little bars and breweries around town.

The oldest brewery in Salzburg is the Stiegl’s Brauwelt, the largest privately owned brewery in Austria which also houses a beer museum.

Dating back to 1492, the brewery has seen many people pass through its doors to enjoy a pint of beer.

According to Mozart’s sister Nannerl, even the composer drank at the Stiegl’s brewery.

In August 1780, Nannerl wrote: ‘… at 3 o’clock the three of us went to the Stiegl brewery to watch a game of skittles…’ – still to this day they deliver their beer barrels with horse drawn carriages to the local pubs in Salzburg.

These are the things we enjoyed most about Salzburg on our visit – have you visited?

Exploring A Hidden Ice Palace in Hintertux Glacier

A few weeks ago we spent the weekend skiing and exploring Tux-Finkenberg and Zillertal 3000, a huge ski area which includes the Hintertux Glacier.

Deep underground only 200 meters from Hintertux Glacier’s highest point at 3,250 meters above sea level, is the spectacular natural glacial crevasse aptly named “Nature’s Ice Palace”.

Discovered by mere chance by Roman Erler in 2007, the underground crystal chambers, corridors and ice galleries hold many mysteries and questions that are yet to be answered, such as just how old the ice really is and for how long the crevasse has been there.

More importantly, why when other glaciers in the world continuously move and change shapes, does this crevasse not seem to change much at all?

Roman who guided us around the narrow corridors and sparkling rooms excitedly told us that hopefully this year they will finally find some answers to some of their many questions.

As we slowly made our way past enormous ice stalactites and glacial lakes, the narrow winding tunnels would suddenly open up into huge rooms with the most amazing ice formations.

The largest room and one of the highlights of the tour was the “Ice Palace”, with an impressive height of 15 meters and ice crystals with up to 7 meters in length!

The twisting, crystal clear ice stalactites were even more beautiful as they reflected the colorful lights that lit up the rooms and caves, giving the underground Palace a mystical atmosphere.

With -26 degrees and arctic winds outside, the Hintertux Glacier Ice Palace felt warm and cozy in comparison, since temperatures in the caves always stay around 0 degrees no matter how cold or warm outside!

How & When To Visit Hintertux Glacier:

The Ice Palace is open all year round, and is a perfect activity for gloomy days

There are two tours to choose from:

Regular Tour: 45 minutes, at 10:30, 11:30, 12:30, 13:30, 14:30 and 15:00. Admission is €8 for adults and €4 for children under 8 years.

Grande Tour: 70 minutes, following the regular tour schedule except for at 2.30 pm and 3 pm. Admission is €16 for adults and €8 for children.

You can do the tour in your ski boots, but it gets a bit slippery at times so if possible it’s better to bring a good pair of walking boots.

Website: http://www.hintertuxergletscher.at/en/experience/natures-ice-palace.html

Spring Skiing in Zillertal 3000, Austria

With over 245 kilometers of slopes covering 900 hectares, the Ski and Glacier World Zillertal 3000 is a huge playground for ski and snowboard lovers – and we had two days to make the most of it.

Our first ski destination was the Hintertux Glacier: an area known for its year-round skiing and an altitude of up to 3,250 meters, it’s one of the best glacier skiing regions in the world.

When Peter, our ski guide, met up with us in the morning and warned us about the 26 degree minus temperatures waiting for us on the glacier, I first thought he was joking.

Minus 26 degrees?

Is that even possible in March?

Then Peter turned to me and said “You’re Swedish, you’re used to it!”

My hopes weren’t very high, but Nathan assisted with some pep-talk: “if you expect it to be cold, you will feel cold.

Don’t think about it and you won’t feel it”.

Maybe I fit the stereotype of a cold-tolerant Swede better than I thought, or maybe Nathan’s advice actually worked – but when we finally got onto the slopes, I was surprised to find that it really wasn’t that bad.

Nathan’s beard was covered in ice crystals, and my nose was running like a leaking tap, but we didn’t care – the important part was that we were back on the skis, and that was a feeling we both had been longing for all season.

And what better place to get back on the skis than at the Hintertux Glacier and do your first run from 3,250 meters above sea level?!

Bluebird Day at Zillertal 3000

The next day we woke up to clear blue skies and a view of white, snowy mountains from our window.

Our ski guide Peter was excited:

It’s the best day we have had all season!

Perfect weather, perfect snow.

It could not get any better than this!

And it really couldn’t: it was the perfect bluebird day with fresh snow, clear skies and a bright sun warming our happy faces – this was the true meaning of spring skiing!

Getting up on the mountain, overlooking the breathtaking views over the alps and sunny peaks surrounding us in every direction, I felt like a child bursting with excitement.

Looking around me, I was reminded why I love the mountains so much – there is something about the never-ending views and feeling of being in the midst of nature that can’t be compared with any city in the world, no matter how great it is.

Trying to cover three mountains in one day (Eggalm, Rastkogel and Penken) would seem impossible, but Peter knew the mountain so well he could probably do it blindfolded if he had to.

Peter showed us around everywhere, and in just a day we had skied in pretty much every area – including the steepest ski run in all of Austria: Harakiki…

With an average incline of 78%, it was by far the toughest slope I’ve ever done.

By the end of the day my legs were shaking and burning with lactic acid – happy but exhausted from hours of skiing, we rounded off the day at the local aprés ski bar Hexenkessel with a few cold beers and some good old Austrian Oompah music.
Vienna is a city that cherishes its past, and its landmarks and tourist attractions prove it.

Yet there are amazing things to see and do in the capital whether you’re a history buff or not.

From astonishing architecture and impressive monuments and museums to wonderful parks, entertainment venues and even rather unusual sites, Vienna has a lot to offer to keep you busy for days.

What to see in Vienna

Here are just a few of the top things the Holiday Taxis team suggest you see in the Austrian capital.

Hofburg Palace

The Hofburg was once the imperial palace and the seat of the Habsburgs until the end of the World War.

It was built in the 13th century. Get a glimpse into the life of the Habsburg dynasty by visiting the museums the majestic building now gives home to.

They were the incredibly powerful family that ruled the Austro-Hungarian empire.

You will get to see the Imperial Apartments, the Imperial Silver Collection, and the Sisi Museum.

You will also learn about the history and traditions of the imperial court.

The quickest way to the palace is by taxi but you can also use public transport.

The Stephansdom Crypt

Located in the heart of the Austrian capital, the majestic St. Stephen’s Cathedral attracts tourists from all over the world that come to admire its dark, grand architecture.

But below its stone floors lies something far darker and more striking: an underground tomb that gives home to the skeletal remains of more than 11,000 people, as well as the hearts and intestines of emperors, queens and princes.

The place is certainly not for the faint of heart, but those looking for more unusual experiences will certainly want to see the Stephansdom Crypt.

The entrance to the crypt is through as stairway on the left side of the main floor, but the crypt can be accessed by guided tour only.

Prater

Whether you’re looking for some light-hearted entertainment after visiting the spooky crypt or you want your adrenaline levels to jump even higher, you absolutely have to visit Prater.

With ghost trains, roller coasters, carousels, and Ferris wheels, as well as a planetarium and relaxing park areas, Prater is sure to give you a great time no matter your mood or preferences.

The Brunnenmarkt

Located in Vienna’s 16th district and boasting over 170 stalls, the Brunnenmarkt is the longest street market in Europe.

Every Saturday, numerous traders come here to delight the locals with their produce.

You can find quite a few of them during weekdays as well.

The market is rich in fresh food.

There’s an excellent array of fruit stalls, lovely flowers, delicacies and seafood, and arts and crafts.

Brunnenmarkt is a gem.

It’s not very well known by tourists.

You may have to change multiple public transport means to get there but it will be worth it.

To ensure you don’t get lost along the way, ask for exact directions or get a cab to drop you off right there.

Art History Museum

One of the very best art museums in the world, the Art History Museum in Vienna is quite close to the Louvre in terms of the grandness and amount of works is hosts.

The building itself is absolutely marvelous.

The collection of European and Egyptian works here is a must-see.

They have also honored famous artists like Rembrandt, Rubens and Bruegel.

While the museum is open to the public most days of the weeks, it’s best to visit on a Thursday.

This will grant you get the opportunity to enjoy a fine dinner on the cupola rotunda.

To get a better grasp of the Austrian capital’s unique culture and explore other important cultural attractions close to the Museum, you might one to embark on one of the organized art tours offered by local operators.

Why Tourists Find Exploring Vienna by Bike Fascinating

Exploring Vienna by Bike: At the turn of the 20th century, cycling was building momentum across European cities.

As automobiles became the dominant means of transportation, bicycles started to lose their ground, only to re-emerge victorious in the 21st century, hovering across the paved streets of the eco-metropolises of the world.

Go Green Go Cycling like is Amsterdam, with its iconic half a million bicycles roaming its 400 kilometres of bike paths, provided by nearly 150 bicycle shops and owned by 75% of residents, has become an inspiration for London, Paris, Rome and Barcelona.

Vienna, Austria’s capital and largest city, is following suit and taking great pride in its bicycle-friendly practices.

Vienna is also one of our 10 Best Countries for Vegetarian or Vegan Travel.

And, Barcelona is one of our 50 Summer Vacation Ideas for Family Travel

If you’d rather avoid the hustle and bustle of the city, Exploring Vienna outskirts have tremendous appeal to bikers, most of whom are flocking from all over the world to see what all the fuss is about.

Mödling and Wienerwald

Of itself, Vienna doesn’t offer much of a bicycle infrastructure, but when you picture it with its neighboring towns, which have started to merge with it over the years to create suburbs, an entirely new world of possibilities emerges.

Mödling is south of Vienna, nestled within the Wienerwald, or ‘Vienna Woods’, in a forest called ‘Föhren’ (‘Pine’ in German), which is composed almost exclusively of umbrella black pines.

This forest has become a natural reserve and has been dubbed ‘Naturpark Föhrenberger’, a name which has acquired some notoriety among peddlers. But not just any kind of peddler.

This is a haven for those ambitious wheelers with mountain biking skills, because its many windy bike tracks are quite challenging.

Whenever you’re tired, you can stop by one of the mountain huts scattered across the domain, to catch your breath.

For those with an inclination toward less demanding exercise, there are various other activities.

Among its many meadows, the reserve is happy to offer tourists the wonderful Perchtoldsdorfer Heide, a delightful oasis of grassland where you can stop for a picnic and rendezvous with the delightful and mischievous ground squirrels over a backdrop of tall pines.

If you’d like to delve into a bit of Austrian history and you don’t mind the ‘walk’, look for tracks toward Lichtenstein Castle and the Husaren Temple.

If you’re of a more sociable disposition, you can mingle with Viennese residents vacationing at Kaltenleutgeben, a small town in the district of Mödling.

Mark Twain once lived here, and the town was a popular destination for hydrotherapy enthusiasts in the 1800’s.

To reach Mödling, simply take a train from Südbahnhof station.

National Park Donau-Auen and Lobau

The National Park is a well-established cycling route in the environs of Vienna.

It stretches between Vienna and Bratislava and it preserves Central Europe’s last wetlands.

As its name suggests, the park straddles the Danube.

If you’d rather walk than hike, or cycle instead of mounting, then you’ll probably appreciate visiting the former hunting lodge and mountain resort of Charles and Zita, Austria’s very last imperial couple.

At Eckartsau Castle, you can take a cyclist guided tour, roam around the marked walking paths lacing the castle grounds, take in the grandeur of the vast Schlosspark with a panoramic view at the observational hut, or follow ‘Kaiserweg’, the ‘Emperor’s Path’, to get a feel for imperial life.

To start your journey at Lobau, take the U1 underground to Kaisermühlen, and from then on, either cycle or take the bus.

From Lobau onwards, it should be plain sailing, especially as you have the guided tours in Donau-Auen.

Tulln to Klosterneuburg

Start the day with a train ride from Vienna to Tulln and do a bit of sightseeing before you head on cycling along the River Danube.

Tulln an der Donau is such a fresh and green town, literally brimming with parks, that it has been dubbed ‘The City of Flowers’, or Blumenstadt.

Admire the Bibelungen-Brunnen fountain, erected in celebration of Attila the Hun’s proposal to Gudrun.

Visit the Egon Schiele Museum and the Minoritenkloster convent, and then start your cycling tour along the Danube.

As the town is surrounded by flatland, this is a brilliant location for a leisurely stroll on your bike.

Nobody would think any lesser of you if you returned to Exploring Vienna by train, but if you’re up for another 5 kilometres on the bike, you should find it a smooth ride back.

Wachau

The biker’s Shangri-La, Wachau is a 35-kilometre stretch of valley along the River Danube, between Pöchlarn and Krems.

You can take your entire family to Wachau, as the elderly and children alike find this trip to be quite gentle.

B&Bs will be scattered across the track, and since it should take a few days to leisurely cycle through the Wachau area, it may be best to stop, recharge your batteries and take advantage of their amenities.

Most accommodations will offer locker boxes and repair facilities.

Exploring Vienna by Bike

If you’d like to give central Vienna a try, you may find the city’s approach to cycling to be quite appealing.

Recent projects have set out to link the city’s residential areas together by cycle track.

Traffic lights give priority to cyclists and warn them of incoming vehicles.

The second largest shopping street is being turned into a car-free area, with shared pedestrian and cyclist access.

For city breaks to Vienna fans, cycling tourism could be a valid alternative to taking a bus tour.

Not only are most streets currently too narrow for the traffic flow and permanently jammed with vehicles, but urban planners are expecting the situation to worsen.

Policy-makers are starting to grow weary of the ‘one person, one car’ attitude of modern-day living, and their plans for the fastest-growing city in all of German-speaking Europe are taking a different direction.

In reality, it would be a shame to visit this lovely city by bus tour.

Driving past Beethoven, Albert Einstein, Gustav Klimt and Schindler’s house, the United Nations headquarters, the Danube Tower and other historical landmarks without being able to stop for a decent photograph that you can show off to friends and family kind of defies the whole reason for a city trip.

Many of Vienna’s top sights offer bicycle access, so you can wonder around Vienna’s maze of streets at your own pace, knowing that wherever your bicycle takes you, you’ll be able to park it and get on with your day.

Why not take your bicycle to Schönbrunn Palace and stroll across the gravel paths of the enchanting and vast Schönbrunn park?

Visit the Sisi Museum, the Hofburg Imperial Palace, the Schönbrunn Zoo, or Vienna’s 5.3-kilometer long Ringstrasse with monuments and landmarks scattered throughout.

Leave your bike in a safe parking area and take the fiakers, the Viennese two-horse carriages, on a short ride through the city centre.

If you’re lucky enough to have your loved one by your side, try the romantic ‘porcelain ride’, the steady coach journey used in days of yore to transport porcelain.

Return to your bikes feeling refreshed and pampered and carry on with your journey across the city.

Whichever way you like to travel, know that the ‘City of Music and Dreams’ is anxiously waiting to show you why it was first awarded the title of ‘World’s most liveable city‘.

There are few sights in this world that are as enchanting as the skyline of Donaustadt at dusk.

You don’t have to attend a Viennese ball to get a feel for what life in Vienna is like.

Just hop on your bicycle and ride to the Hundertwasserhaus to see how quirky and creative the Viennese truly are.

Scenic Drives in the UK – It’s no secret that the UK has some of the most beautiful landscape, and together with its long history and charming culture it’s an amazing  country to explore. The best way to make the most of your time is to explore the country by car, as you simply can’t reach and experience many of the best gems by train or bus – and many drives are worth the trip alone for vacation in the UK

Where to begin when planning on traveling to UK and want to make the most of it?

When planning your travel schedule, you want to maximize your time there.

Our Traveling to UK articles, with their easy-to-read format, will inspire you.

Find what is most interesting to you, depending on how long you have on holiday in the UK. England Travel Guide

Traveling to UK

It may seem overwhelming to decide between visiting England, Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland.

Maybe you will be lucky enough to have time to visit all the countries in the UK.

Once you narrow it down, you get to decide what to do in each country.

Learn about infamous sites as well as out of the way places.

Get a real feel for areas in the UK, including topics such as where to go if you have one day in Liverpool; fun ways to enjoy Wales; the best beach towns in the UK; child-friendly things to do in London; exploring Scotland, and much more.

Travelling for a Good Cause in the UK

Travelling for a Good Cause and Combining volunteer work with travel has boomed in the last decade, and most people refer to it now as ‘voluntourism’.

If you’re visiting the UK anytime soon, there are a lot of opportunities to give back to the community while enjoying the country.

The UK’s is a stunning place to visit, and you can explore it on foot as you participate in a charity event.

Coach Magazine’s list of notable charity walks for 2018 and 2019 spans many unbelievable sights in the country.

In London, for instance, you can join the Thames Path Challenge in September.

The event will use different routes along the River Thames, and you will see sites like the Royal Botanic Gardens and Windsor Castle.

Over 300 charities are involved in the project, including Diabetes UK, Alzheimer’s Research UK, and Make A Wish Foundation.

If you want to explore outside of the city, look into the series of charity hikes organised by Macmillan Cancer Support.

One of the events treks through the Lake District, which Travel to Europe previously noted as a highly-recommended destination due to its remarkable vistas.

There are other expeditions that you can dedicate to charity such as the Lake District 24 Peaks Challenge where participants try to reach 24 peaks in 24 hours.

Macmillan Cancer Support also organizes hikes in Wales and Scotland particularly in the Wye Valley and the Trossachs National Park, respectively.

Both areas have no shortage of dramatic landscapes.

For sea lovers, the Marine Conservation Society holds an annual beach clean up.

The BBC states that 2014 was their most impressive run yet, with 275,000 pieces of litter collected from over 300 beaches in the UK.

Rubbish is an ongoing international problem and the British coastline is not exempt from it.

Rubbish eventually ends up in the sea which marine life unwittingly consume, while some animals, like small fish, may get trapped in objects like discarded plastic wrappers.

Joining such an event is a great way to bond with the community while exploring a different side of the country.

Many tourists also can’t resist going on shopping sprees while on vacation.

Instead of frequenting high streets, however, you can scour charity shops.

They have second-hand designer clothes, books, toys, and more.

The local NGO Save the Children notes that these charity stores are normally run by kind-hearted volunteers.

Either a portion or all of the proceeds go to campaigns such as child protection, education, feeding programs and medical missions.

Charity shops are scattered across the country, and especially in major cities like Belfast.

This is a great jump-off point to the rest of Northern Ireland’s countryside charm.

After your retail therapy, you can rent a car and hit all of the must-see spots such as the Giant’s Causeway, Mourne Mountains, the glens of Antrim.

Of course, you can also do it the other way around: explore the island then visit charity shops for souvenirs before you fly back home.

Things to remember when Travelling for a Good Cause

When travelling for a good cause, the Huffington Post provides a few pointers to remember to ensure that you’re getting involved in responsible and ethical work:

• Work with well-respected non-profit organisations and not companies that use volunteerism as a marketing ploy
• Beware of scams like ‘orphanage tourism’ which use children as tourist attractions
• The longer the involvement in a community, the better and more sustainable
• Plan your travel around the organisation’s schedule
• Don’t be afraid to ask the charity how they’re spending your donation, and survey the local community if the impact of the volunteer work is actually promoting their welfare
• Don’t post pictures of children on social media
• And lastly, fully immerse yourself in the community

Living like a local not only provides a more authentic experience, it also enriches your perspective of the world and encourages you to give more.

Here are The Best Scenic Drives in the UK

Scenic Drives in Cornwall

Named one of the world’s most beautiful drives by National Geographic, Cornwall has everything it takes for a scenic drive; rugged coastline, whitewashed seaside villages, lush green countryside and Celtic ruins.

The long and winding road along the north Cornwall coast known as the “Atlantic Highway” is a must, where you drive through some of the country’s most dramatic coastline.

Bedruthan Steps, Constantine Bay (B276) and the lighthouse at Trevose Head are three of the highlights along the way.

Scottish Highlands

Scotland is beautiful at any time of the year, but I found autumn to be absolutely spectacular.

The landscape almost looks like it’s on fire in a hundred shades of gold, and early autumn (such as September) are also some of the drier times of the year in this otherwise very wet area, so I highly recommend going there then!

The drive from Loch Lomond to Glencoe is especially beautiful!

Keep in mind however that many of the roads in the Highlands are curvy and tricky and not for the hesitant driver.

You can use “Carole Nash routes to ride page” to find popular routes and the levels of difficulty for each route (as well as where to find petrol stops).

Lake District

Lake District is one of the most popular destinations in the UK, and was the inspiration to many of the country’s best known romantic poets such as Coleridge and Wordsworth.

The Lake District has to be one of my most favorite places in the UK.

The lakes are surrounded with beautiful green fell land, a spectacular array of Flora and Fauna and with an air of tranquility that could calm even the most stressed of soles.

It’s easy to see why it’s been labelled as an area of outstanding natural beauty and receives hundreds of thousands of tourists each year.

For a truly scenic and memorable drive, take the circular route which begins in Kendal (on the A5284) and passes through Ambleside, Keswick and Windermere, taking in the variety of lakes to be found in the area.

The 30-mile stretch (A591) between Kendal and Keswick is one of the most beautiful drives in the district, as it’s the only road that runs through the heart of the National Park, passing meadows, peaks, the famous Grasmere and five lakes.

Northern England

The drive from Penrith to Haydon Bridge (A686) has been named one of the best drives in the world by AA Magazine, thanks to its wild nature and scenic views from the Hartside Top Cafe (on a clear day you can see as far as Scotland).

Peak District

With an estimated 22 million visitors per yeat, the Peak District is said to be the second most visited national park in the world, after Mt Fuji.

Even those who have never been there are very familiar with the beautiful landscape if they’ve ever seen the movies Jane Eyre or Pride and Prejudice, which were filmed there.

This area is full of history and charming British culture, with lots of picturesque village and spectacular landscapes.

UK’s Most Scenic & Interesting Drives

When it comes to beautiful scenery and stunning vistas, the UK has much to offer drivers.

From the spectacular lakeside scenery of Cumbria’s Lake District, to the visual feast of Dover’s white cliffs and everything in between, there are many scenic drives awaiting you.

If you fancy getting into your car and heading off on a road trip within the UK, here are my top drives to excite your eyes:

Black Mountain Road (Powys, Breacon Beacons National Park)

Arguably one of the most stunning drives to be found in the UK, a short but beautiful 5 mile stretch running through the Black Mountain Range and giving drivers elevated views of the surrounding countryside.

The Breacon Beacons National Park in it’s own right is well worth a visit if you want to experience some of the UK’s best scenery.

At its highest, the road reaches 1,617 feet above sea level and there are of plenty of places to stop for some truly spectacular photos.

Highlands (Scotland)

With many a quiet and solitary glen, loch’s galore and scenic roads a plenty, the Highlands should definitely be on your wish list.

After all, who hasn’t heard of Loch Ness (and the Loch Ness Monster)?

There’s plenty to see and do; castles and forts, fascinating hydro-electric power station’s and dams, and scenic road after scenic road awaits you.

To really experience the changing scenery from bustling city to isolated wilderness, take a drive from Glasgow on the A9, through to Inverness in the Scottish Highlands.

Snowdonia (Wales)

The Snowdonia National Park contains some of Wales’ most spectacular scenery and many picturesque villages can be found whilst you wind your way through the area on its scenic roads.

The mountains of Snowdonia provide a majestic backdrop to the coastal scenery – an area that has been shaped by the activity of humans over countless millennia, it is classed as a semi-natural wilderness that over time, has become steeped in legend and myth.

The Snowdonia National Park was created in 1951 with the sole aim of identifying ways to preserve and promote the wild beauty of the area and weave the context and the threads of the lives of people who have lived there, with the myths and legends that have been passed down through the ages.

Any visit to the area can be enhanced by some knowledge of the myths and legends, tales of mortals and immortals, giants and goblins and other fables passed down through the mists of time.

Here we list some places to visit and link them to the myths and legend that are associated with them…

King Arthur

King Arthur is perhaps the best known legendary figure associated with the area.

There is a stone on the bank of Lake Barfog near Betws y Coed that is said to bear the footprint of Arthur’s horse Llamaraii that was made during a notable event when Arthur and his horse dragged a monster from the depths of the lake.

Other lakes that are linked to the Arthurian legend are those of Llydaw, Dinas and Ogwen.

All of them at one time or another have been thought of as prime candidates for the location of the magical sword Excalibur.

If you ever find yourself at the summit of Mount Snowdon you might ponder the fact that King Arthur has been there before you when he fought a battle to the death with the giant Rhitta; a fearsome warrior who used the beards of his enemies to make a giant cape for himself.

Arthur killed the giant at the summit of the mountain and had his men bury the corpse under a cairn of huge stones.

A search for Merlin might take you to Bardsey Island off the coast of the Llyn peninsula.

A place that many people think could be the mystic land of Avalon.

The magician Merlin, a key figure in Arthurian legend is thought to be buried there in a glass coffin.

Cadair Idris

At the Southern end of Snowdonia stands the iconic mountain of Cadair Idris.

It has three peaks; Llyn y Gadair (Head of the Chair), Cyfrwy (the Saddle) and Mynydd Moel (the Bare Mountain).

Legend has it that this is the seat of Idris the giant.

There are three large stones at the base of the mountain that Idris is supposed to have kicked down the mountain when he got angry.

Legend has it that the lakes surrounding the mountain are bottomless and locals say that it is haunted and that anyone spending the night there will end up going mad or … becoming a poet.

Rhys and Meinir

This is a very sad legend based around Nant Gwyrtheyrn where it is said that cousins Rhys Maredudd and Meinir Maredudd fell in love and were due to be wed at Clynogg Church.

During their courtship their favorite meeting place was under an old oak tree in the valley between the farms they were each brought up on.

In those days the bride had to hide from the groom’s friends until once found she gets escorted to church by them.

After searching and searching they never found Meinir and so went on to the church expecting her to be there but she was not.

She had obviously found a very good hiding place. In the event, she never did turn up to church and wasn’t found.

A distraught Rhys took to walking the countryside with his dog Cidwm.

One night a storm broke when he was out looking for Meinir and he took shelter beneath the old oak that used to be their favorite meeting place.

A huge bolt of lightning hit the tree and split it in two to reveal the skeleton of Meinir still in her wedding dress.

Rhys was so shocked he dropped dead.

His faithful dog Cidwym lay down beside his body, went to sleep never to rise again.

If you are considering heading for Snowdonia, these are just a few of the places you might like to visit to get a feel of this amazing area that has inspired not only these legends but many more besides.

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North Wales

To experience the best North Wales has to offer, why not start your journey at Conwy Castle on the coast and make your way through the winding A & B roads, passing through Snowdonia (why not stop to take the Welsh Mountain Railway to the summit of Mount Snowdon), the beautiful village of Betws-y-Coed and travelling on to the spectacular tourist village of Portmeirion (once used as the film set for The Prisoner).

Cheddar Gorge (Somerset)

The second greatest natural wonder in the UK, Cheddar Gorge is a spectacular cleft in the landscape caused by melt water flooding during the last ice-age.

The scenery is quite literally other worldly as you drive on the B3135 that passes through the gorge.

Also home to a spectacular cave system and visitor center (definitely one to bring the kids along for), it’s well worth a drive through the gorge to take in the 27 cliffs, steep green slopes and variety of wildlife to be found there.

Top Scenic Bicycle Routes in England

England is a fantastic country to see by bike due to its varied and mostly flat terrain, lush countryside, and the preponderance of pubs and cafes along the paths.

From lazy family outings to serious ascents, England’s cycle paths have something to offer everyone.

Here are five scenic bike routes where you can experience the beauty of England.

hile some will take more than one day to complete, cycling portions of them is also rewarding.

C2C or S2S

Whether you call it the Coast to Coast or the Sea to Sea, this 140 mile (230 km) route connects the Irish Sea and the North Sea, and traditionally starts and ends by dipping your bike’s wheels in water.

Riding east to west is recommended, as the wind will be in your favor.

Moody moors, old mining towns, green valleys, and the dreamy Lake District are featured along the way, and make this a rewarding, and challenging, trip.

Isle of Wight

The 62 mile (100 km) route around the island is easier if completed in a clockwise direction, but with plenty of paths and shortcuts to explore the interior of the Isle of Wight, cyclists are free to make up their route as they go.

Choose between scenic coastal views and charming country lanes, or tackle the hills out of Shanklin’s Old Village.

There is an annual cycling festival held in early autumn, which provides great information and entertainment for biking enthusiasts.

London to Cambridge

The 60 miles (96 km) between London and Cambridge is the final leg of the British portion of the Tour de France, and can be ridden in either direction.

Often used for charity rides, this route winds through the flat, scenic, countryside, although it does begin to climb as you near Cambridge.

Riding out, exploring the ancient city, and taking the train back to London is completely acceptable!

Penzance Circular Route

This 23 mile (37 km) showcases Cornwall’s dramatic landscapes and is one of the best coastal routes in the country; its quiet routes and picturesque villages make this circular route a popular one.

The Grand Tour of Pendle

At 35 miles (56 km) long, and with 4,286 feet of ascent, the Grand Tour of Pendle is a hilly but enjoyable circular route through Pendle’s rugged terrain.

It’s not recommended for beginners, but is ideal for road biking enthusiasts seeking a challenge.

It’s important that you choose the right road bike from someone to get the most out of this route.

The Thames Path

There are loads of long-distance walking paths in the UK that can cover 100 to 200 plus kilometers of fascinating country.

The Thames Path is one such long-distance adventure that covers more than 280 kilometers starting at Cirencester and ending in London.

The entire path can take up to around 14 days or more depending on your pace.

It switches from one bank to the other and its start is easily reachable from Birmingham airport.

For those less adventurous walkers, it is possible to walk just a portion of the trail.

The path covers the entire length of the river and goes through cities like Oxfordshire and Wallingford to name just a few.

A map for the path can be found online on the National Trail website.

There are hostels, pubs, and restaurants all within easy reach of the various stopping points along the way of path.

The route takes you through some of the most beautiful villages and towns in the country.

Those looking for shorter routes can take the five mile walk from Goring to Pangbourne, or the just over six mile route from Reading to Shiplake.

Both can be found within easy reach of the local train stations, and allows backpackers to get a taste of the walk without spending all 14 days on it.

Once it’s reached Goring-on-Thames, the path meets up with the Ridgway, and goes through some of the most beautiful woodland in the area.

Goring is easily reachable by bus or taxi from here.

There are great restaurants to be found here like Masooms and Jan Marie, plus the standard local pubs.

The Thames starts to widen through this area meaning little towns and villages become more frequent.

The last leg of the trip brings you within easy distance and the flight home.

The last leg is also the most populated as it brings you closer to London.

The path goes beneath Windsor Castle and also provides a stunning view of Hampton Court as well. It goes all the way into London finally ending near Greenwich.

The last section also provides a great view of many of the docks and quays to be found in London amongst the warehouses.

Exploring England’s Most Scenic Destination

Green hills, quaint cottages, lakes and mid eval towns sound like the English paradise right?

Well – it can all be found in Lake District Park, the largest national park of England – known as the most scenic destinations and drives in the country, tourists flock the small little villages around the park every year to go for walks, picnic by the lakes and stroll around the towns.

‘Fishing at Windermere – image by Cumbrian-Cottages.co.uk’

Lakes & Fells

The main attractions are the lakes and fells in the area – there are as many as 16 lakes and several “waters”, which are all unique in their own way.

Windermere is the largest one, and is also the largest natural lake in the country – it has been one of the country’s most popular holiday places every since 1847.

There is no shortage of accommodation in Windermere, and it’s the perfect place to base yourself while exploring the area.

The fells (a local name for hills or mountains) are England’s only true mountain range, and although it’s not very high compared to other mountain ranges in the world, it’s still a nice hike, and there are so many routes and paths to choose (and get lost in!), so don’t forget a map…

The highest one is also the most visited, so if you want a more quiet and peaceful hike, I suggest you go to the smaller ones, some of them actually have nicer views than the big one..!

Traditional Towns

Another popular place to stay in the Lake District is Ambleside, which is just a short busride away from Windermere.

It’s located on the northernmost point of Windermere lake, and can also be reached by boat.

This small little town has been around since Pre- Roman times, and this is where you’ll find the most photographed site in the region:

The Bridge House (built in 17th century as an apple store).

Ambleside is a very traditional town full of traditional artifacts, houses and culture, with most of the Ambleside cottages are kept traditional, which is really part of the charm of Ambleside.

Keswick, another town in the area, is the place for nature lovers – both artists and photographers mix with hikers and climbers to enjoy the beautiful scenery.

A great thing about this town is that there are other things to do than scenic walks and climbs – if there is a rainy day (which is, let’s face it, common in England), you probably won’t want to go out hiking.

So luckily there are quite a few nice pubs to spend a few hours, and live music is also very popular around. There is also a very active theater by the lake if you want a more cultural night out.

You will find cute Keswick cottages everywhere, but since it’s such a popular place it’s good to book a place to stay at in advance – also note that few places have car parks, so the best way to visit would be by bus.

There are a couple of pay and display car parks in the town center, and another close to the lakeside, but on busy days  it might still be difficult to find a spot.

Feel tempted to go yet? 😉

Exploring The Best Of Britain

With London being the focus of the world for the Diamond Jubilee celebrations for Queen Elizabeth II, many tourists may be considering a trip to the British Isles – this coupled with the Olympic Games being held in London this summer, tourists are bound to be flocking to the ‘Big Smoke’.

Whilst London has a lot to offer tourists, there are many, equally impressive hidden gems in the capital and around the rest of the country.

This year, you’d be forgiven for thinking everything going on in Britain has something to do with the London Olympics – press coverage of the games has brought unprecedented worldwide attention to the city and, as so many people flock to the capital, it’s easy to forget just how much Britain has to offer beyond the showpiece of the games.

If you’re planning a getaway this year, why not explore the British countryside – and find the events, destinations and activities that are right on your doorstep?

Awesome way to discover the stereotypical Britain

Gundog Training & Falconry – Gleneagles

The famous Gleneagles Hotel hosts an impressive range of country pursuits, allowing guests to explore the beauty and drama of its 850-acre rural Perthshire estate.

Two of its most popular attractions are the Falconry and Gundog schools – working with the hotel’s own specially-bred animals – and trained professionals – you’ll have the chance to master two ancient sporting disciplines in a test of agility, skill and animal handling.

It’s a special experience – and a unique introduction to Scotland’s rich sporting heritage.

London

It is hard to imagine that London, one of the world’s most famous cities, has anything left to hide.

While you should not rule out visits to the Houses of Parliament, Trafalgar Square, and Tower Bridge, you could see the whole lot in one go.

To the North of the city lies Regent’s Park – the park itself is full of natural wildlife and is the ideal visit on a nice day.

But the main attraction is Primrose Hill where which stunning views of the London skyline can be seen.

Lake District

The Lake District lies to the north west of England and while it is a well-known tourist spot, it has to be classed as a hidden gem because every visitor discovers something new each time they visit.

Whether that is the district’s largest lake Windermere, or the towns of Ambleside and Keswick – everyone has a personal favourite.

For me, it’s getting back to basics in the stunning and picturesque setting of Langdale where you can really get drawn into the natural beauty.

Equipment is key for adventures like this and I would advise sleeping hammocks from RV Ops to really be at one with the countryside.

The Lake District is a hugely popular destination for water-sport enthusiasts and offers the opportunity to try out activities like kayaking, water-skiing, wind-surfing and power-boating.

Explore vast, open lakes against a backdrop of rolling hills and mountains – the perfect setting for an action-packed aquatic experience!

Whether you’re already an expert, or still a novice looking for something new to try, getting out on the water is a fun, exhilarating option for all ages and abilities.

Yorkshire

As the nation’s largest county – Yorkshire has a lot to offer.

Whether that be the historic city of York, the modern metropolitan that is Leeds, the breath-taking east coast or the industry, culture and UNESCO world heritage site of Saltaire in the city of Bradford – Yorkshire has everything.

But in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales, at the bottom of the second highest peak Ingleborough, is Gaping Gill.

A relatively unknown site and not one for those scared of heights.

Gaping Gill is a huge cave and one of the largest known underground chambers in Britain.

It also holds the record for the tallest unbroken waterfall in England and is accessible via a winch down the shaft and 344ft to the bottom – not one for the faint heart!

 

The West Country

The West Country has many unique attractions, from ancient wonders of Stonehenge, the historic Roman settlement of Bath or the town and Tor at Glastonbury.

There is also a natural wonder hidden away towards the coast.

Cheddar Gorge is accessible by a road going right through the heart, meaning you can see Britain’s biggest gorge via your car.

The stunning 450ft cliffs, nature reserve and caves provide a really great day out.

Northumberland

On the border of England and Scotland lies the northernmost county of Northumberland.

This is the most sparsely populated county in England with the majority protected as a national park.

The most impressive attractions are largely man-made however.

In terms of man-made sights to see for tourism in Northumberland, the Roman fortification Hadrian’s Wall is the obvious attraction that comes to mind.

However, for a complete mix of natural and man-made wonder, the tidal island of Lindisfarne is a must.

Also known as Holy Island, the tide determines whether Lindisfarne is accessible by foot or car as low tide reveals Pilgrim’s Way which acts as a natural bridge from the mainland.

Once on the island you will be able to access the stunning castle situated on the top of the mount.

Deer Stalking – Northumberland

A practice stretching back hundreds of years, deerstalking is a crucial part of maintaining populations of deer across Britain.

Northumberland has a rich hunting tradition, and for those searching for that authentic historical experience, deer stalking offers a unique perspective on the natural world.

If you think you’re up to the challenge, tracking deer through the quiet, forested hillsides of northern England is a tense and unforgettable experience.

Canyoning – Gloucestershire

Take on the south west’s roughest terrain the hard-way with a canyoning trip that brings you closer than ever to the natural environment.

Guided canyoning tours take you over, under and through some of the most spectacular scenery in the country and present an impressive range of obstacles – mixing climbing, body-rafting and spelunking.

Not for the fainthearted, canyoning is an exhilarating adventure for anyone looking for a physical challenge.

You don’t have to be a sports fan to enjoy the summer of 2012 and, if the Olympics just isn’t for you, don’t spend the time moping – get out there and find something to make your summer a memorable one!

Alternative UK Holidays to Try This Summer

Tired of the usual UK city break? Craving for something different and memorable for your vacation in the UK?

If yes, keep on reading and we will provide you with recommendations on five of Alternative UK Holidays that can be taken into consideration for your UK holiday this year:

Log Cabin Holiday in Cotswolds

When you are in Cotswolds, forget the idea of staying in a lavish and crowded hotel. Instead, you should settle with a log cabin, which can offer a more authentic experience.

They are also more private, and hence, perfect for romantic getaways.

Many of these log cabins are also equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, giving you a more enjoyable time.

More than just staying in a log cabin, you will also enjoy a wide array of activities.

How to properly prepare for your holidays

Glamping in Dorset

Gone were the days wherein people hate the outdoors and camping.

Nowadays, with the concept of glamorous camping, more and more people are enticed to spend the night in camp sites.

In Dorset, you can find a wide array of glamping sites, many of which are available at affordable rates.

At Caalm Camp, for instance, you can enjoy staying in traditional Mongolian yurts, which are made luxurious with duvets and crisp towels.

In Willow Woodland, on the other hand, you can stay in shepherd’s huts and live just a few minutes away from Jurassic coast.

Sailing in Hampshire

If you are looking or something more different to try this summer, sailing is another possibility that should be on your list. Solent in Hampshire is one of the best places that you should check.

With attractive harbors and marinas, there is no doubt that sailing is one of Hampshire’s main tourist activities.

There are even schools where you can learn the fundamentals of sailing if you are just about to get started.

Yearly, there are also annual regattas held in Hampshire.

Camper van Tour in Cornwall

If you have a least a couple of days or a week to spare, rent a camper van and explore the beauty of Cornwall.

Whether you are with family or friends, you will surely have a good time on the road.

Aside from scenic drives, you will have a variety of choices on where to stay for the night if you want to rest.

Some of the places where you should stop include Fowey, Polperro, Dartmoor and Exmoor.

Of course, your itinerary should also include a visit to North Devon, which is known for its pristine beaches.

Go on a Food Trip in Berkshire

The UK is a place that is known for its food, but if you just have to choose one, there is no doubt that Berkshire should be on the top of your list.

It can offer a gastronomic feast that your appetite will surely thank you for.

It is home to two three Michelin stars restaurants, which will already give you an idea of how enjoyable the food will most probably be.

Specifically, you should be focused in exploring Bray, which is recognized as the culinary capital of UK.

Its narrow streets can lead you to some of the best restaurants you will ever find.

Somewhere Unique to Stay on Your Travels?

That title question isn’t rhetorical – are you currently looking for some lesser known places to stay in the UK as you make your way around the United Kingdom, but perhaps a little fed up with staying in your everyday, average hotel?

Do you fancy something a little different from the rather predictable norm?

If you answered yes to our questions, then you have definitely come to the right place, friend!

We’ve been looking out for the more unusual places to stay for some time now, ever since we got a bit tired of staying in the same old places every time we went for a weekend away.

We feel that the place you stay should be every bit as interesting as the city or town you’ve gone to visit, so we decided to start collating some of the better locations.

Now we’re sharing those lesser known places to stay in the UK with you, you lucky, lucky guys.

Enjoy!

Lesser Known Places to Stay in the UK

The Castle Snug in Edinburgh

Only about 200 metres away from the more famous of Edinburgh’s castles (known as er… Edinburgh Castle), the Castle Snug is a rather more subdued affair.

It was formerly the home of a James Boswell, and has been stayed in by a number of esteemed individuals, including Dr Samuel Johnson (the dictionary guy).

It’s set inside James’ Court, which dates back around 400 years, and proudly shows off the original, exposed stone walls and a beautiful cedar wood ceiling.

Edinburgh It’s a great place for a nice romantic getaway, relaxing in the leather seats as dinner simmers away on the cast iron stove.

Cottages of Portmeirion Village

Portmeirion is a lovely little village, almost like a slice of the Italian riviera was plonked down in Wales one summer’s day, and was the brainchild of the wonderful architect, Mr Clough Williams-Ellis.

With bounteous beautiful beaches, colorful homes and gorgeous sights galore, it’s a fantastic place to spend a long weekend, which makes it fortunate that there are plenty of cottages to stay in!

Cliff House offers up some pretty spectacular views, the Chantry overlooks the entire village, and White Horses sits on the waterfront – you’re spoiled for choice!

Chocolate Boutique Hotel in Bournemouth

Man oh man is this the absolute dream location for any chocoholic!

Located nicely within Bournemouth’s most fashionable Soho Quarter, the Chocolate Boutique Hotel is a Grade II listed building housing just thirteen bedrooms.

This is no bad thing – it gives the place a charming, homely and intimate feel, and quality is always superior to quantity is what we say!

Each and every bedroom shares a similar theme, and that theme is (yep, you guessed it) chocolate!

They all house some fantastic furnishings and décor, with super comfy beds just waiting for you to jump right in.

Voted one of the six best novelty hotels on the planet by the Sunday Times Travel mag, it is the only chocolate-themed hotel in the world, and they sure take their passion seriously – just book yourself into one of their truffle-making workshops to see for yourself!

We hope you enjoy these lesser known places to stay in the UK.

Also, we encourage you to check out this awesome infographic on the Denbighshire area.

Quirky Places in the UK

Some of my favorite places and attractions I remember from my travels are not the most famous ones that are high on every “must-visit” list online, but the small and quirky places that most guides don’t even bother to mention.

While many travelers only pay attention to the most famous attractions, there are many quirky attractions that give value for money in the UK August holidays which most people don’t even know about.

Here are five awesome quirky places to visit in the UK this summer …

Mother Shipton’s Cave

This cave contains a well (named the Petrifying Well) with such high mineral content in the water that it turns everything in its path into stone.

It leaves behind mineral deposits that build up over time and form a crust of new rock: you can see shoes, teddy bears, a hat belonging to John Wayne and Agatha Christie’s handbag hanging from the rock face, all with a thick rock crust around them.

Where: Prophecy Lodge, Harrogate Rd, High Bridge, Knaresborough, North Yorkshire

When: Daily in April – October between 10am and 5.30pm. Only on weekends in February and March.

Phone Box Museum

Definitely one of the smallest museums in the world, the phone box museum in Wales, is exactly what it sounds like: a small museum inside a red phone box on the side of the road.

The phone box is a tiny gallery dedicated to a local photographer Tom Matthias who lived very close to the phone box.

Where: It’s located just outside of Cilgerran at the junction of Garnon’s Mill Road.
When: 24/7

Kinema in the Woods

If you’re a sucker for all things retro and nostalgic, you will fall head over heels for this little cinema.

The Kinema is a traditional 20’s cinema showing all the latest flicks, complete with intermissions, old-fashioned paper cinema tickets, a lovely sweets counter and a Compton organ that plays during the intervals (coming up out of the stage floor).

Where: Coronation Road, Woodhall Spa, Lincolnshire

When: It’s open whenever there is a movie showing (check their movies and book online here).

The box office opens approximately 15 minutes before the showings.

Blackpool Model Village

A favorite among kids, this miniature village transports you back to bygone days where imaginary stories unfold before your eyes in each of the 40+ village scenes.

It’s a great choice of entertainment in the August bank holiday and you also get a quiz to fill in while walking around which gives hints and clues to things in the villages you otherwise would have missed.

Where: East Park Drive Stanley Park, Blackpool, Lancashire

When: March to October, daily from 10am. Price for an adult is £6.95.

Smallest House in Great Britain

From one small attraction to another, a tiny red house in Conwy, Wales, is famous for being the country’s smallest house (once a whole family lived there!).

The last resident who lived there was a fisherman called Robert Jones, who at 6”3 understandably struggled to live in the tiny house which surprisingly had two stories.

He was forced to move out in 1900 when the local council declared the house unfit for human dwelling.

For 75p you can enter the house and look around.

Where: The Quay Conwy LL32 8BB

When: April – Oct: Mon-Sat 10am to 5.30pm. Sun 11am to 4pm

Fun Things To Do In Manchester

With its mixture of fantastic shopping, buzzing nightlife and fascinating museums, there are so many fun things to do in Manchester, which makes it perfect destination for a short break.

So, if you’re keen to get away from it all for a few days, and you are looking for a few short breaks in the UK – there are few better places to head to than Manchester!

Music

The city is world-famous for its musical heritage:

Oasis, The Smiths, Joy Division and The Happy Mondays are just a few of the acts who started out playing in small venues across the city before going on to sell millions of records.

So if there is one fun things to do in Manchester that shouldn’t be missed, it’s checking out the live music scene during your break you may be able to see the next big band in action.

From smaller venues such as the Roadhouse and the Night and Day Cafe to the MEN Arena, the Bridgewater Hall and the Manchester Apollo which seat thousands of people, you will not be short of places to see the hottest names in music take to the stage.

Manchester Nightlife

After watching a live band, why not carry on your night by going to a bar or club?

The Deansgate area of the city contains a number of trendy drinking spots, as well as high-end restaurants.

If you want a stylish night on the town, be sure to head here.

Oxford Road and its surrounding streets are home to a number of bars and pubs that are popular with Manchester’s student population, while you can dance until the early hours of the morning at one of the nightclubs in the Printworks complex.

Manchester Sports

For the sport fan visiting Manchester, the things to do in Manchester most definitely involve football.

As well as its top-quality nightlife and fascinating museums, Manchester is also a top destination for sport – particularly football.

The city’s two world famous teams – Manchester City and Manchester United – are fierce rivals and you can see some of the world’s best players at either of their grounds.

To get a further insight into the city’s football history, why not go on a guided tour of Old Trafford or the City of Manchester stadium?

Lancashire County Cricket Club also play their home games in Manchester, so whatever your sporting interests you are sure to find something for you.

Manchester Museums

If you’re looking to take in a little history and art culture, you will find that Manchester is home to a wide array of art galleries and museums, including the People’s History Museum in the Spinningfields area of the city.

Alternatively, you may want to visit the Museum of Science and Industry, the Manchester Gallery and the Museum of Transport, Greater Manchester.

Meanwhile, a trip to the Imperial War Museum North could be ideal if you’re a history buff and are keen to find out more about Britain’s past in armed conflicts.

Manchester Shopping

If you’re looking to indulge in some retail therapy, then you will find Manchester to be the perfect place to splash the cash.

The Arndale Centre is home to some of the biggest high street names, while the Afflecks retail unit – located in the Northern Quarter – contains a variety of independent stalls and boutiques.

Manchester Accommodation

Whatever your budget, there’s accommodation to suit your requirements during your stay in Manchester.

There are a huge number of Manchester hotels to choose from which cater for all needs.

If you’re after an affordable hotel then you may be able to find accommodation for under £15 per person based on a couple sharing a room.

For those after a slightly more luxurious stay in Manchester, there are some fantastic hotels in Manchester that are renowned for their superb all around service and quality accommodation.

No matter where you stay, one thing that is for certain is that you will fall in love with this great city.

How To Spend A Night Out In Newcastle, UK

Many of those who’ve never been to Newcastle think that the city is all about coal and industry, in other words: not much fun.

But Newcastle has changed a lot during the years, and has turned into a really cool, stylish urban city perfect for travelers looking for some awesome nightlife – because if it’s one thing they know how to do in Newcastle it’s to party.

The best way to enjoy their famous nightlife is to stay in the center, and if you book early you can definitely find some great deals on Newcastle hotels in good locations close to bars, clubs and restaurants.

There are more bars and pubs in this city to count, but here are my 5 favorite places for a night out in the “toon” (Newcastle lang for town)

Sam Jacks – For The Rodeo King

Located right in the middle of the action, in a heaving nightlife area of Newcastle, Sam Jacks is part of the Gate Complex on Newgate Street.

It’s a two-floor venue, with a capacity of 1000 people; no wonder it’s said to be one of the busiest venues in the “toon” – open six days a week and all day on a Friday and Saturday, you’re guaranteed to have plenty of fun here.

With a built in rodeo bull, available to ride for £1 a go, and the UK’s only “Dentist’s Chair”, where you clamber on stage, sit in the chair and drink a signature smoking cocktail for a bit of good-spirited fun.

The Cluny – For The Artist Wannabe

Definitely a bar for more of the artistic type, The Cluny is found by the river, on Lime Street, in a converted warehouse.

With a gallery at the rear of the venue, and regular new exhibitions, combined with live music frequenting the stage, this chilled out bar is an artistic hub of the city and well worth a visit if you’re after a bit of down time away from the hectic Haymarket.

Browns – For The Super Stylish

Part of the popular chain of bars, this new establishment is on Grey Street in the city center.

Super stylish, offering good food as well as quality drinks, Browns is already building a fabulous reputation for itself.

Ideally located if you’re seeing a production at the Theater Royal, it is often heaving with diners and drinkers, local or otherwise, and has easy listening piano music played throughout the day.

Brewdog – For The Beer Lover

The Scottish beer bar is new in Newcastle and is well worth a visit to sample some of their quality bottled and draft beers.

There’s surely something to suit your taste and, despite being found in the center of sport-loving Newcastle, there’s not a TV in sight.

With two bars to choose from, including one on the mezzanine level overlooking the main entrance, Brewdog is a refreshing addition to the toon pub scene and should be checked out if you’re in the area.

Trillians – For Rockers & Metal heads

One for the alternative types among you, Trillians is a rock and metal bar with DJs on Friday and Saturday nights and live music events during the week.

Popular during the day with occasional drinkers and at weekends by the seasoned rocker, it’s believed by some to be the only rock bar in Newcastle so is a must for rockers and metal heads.

What is your favorite city in the UK for nightlife?

Reasons to Holiday In Dartmouth, UK

Does summer still seem like it’s ages away?

Are you desperate for some relaxation or a much needed holiday or long weekend?

Why not consider taking a break in a holiday cottage in Dartmouth?

This charming, maritime town boasts an array of award-winning restaurants, quaint cafes, art galleries and eclectic boutiques.

Take a wander along the town’s cobbled streets and marvel at the tranquil River Dart and you’ll soon see why this town has such a huge and ever increasing fan base.

Here’s a snapshot of what’s on offer in Dartmouth and the surrounding area…

For Lovers of the Great Outdoors

If you’re a fan of the countryside, then you will be spoiled for choice by what’s on offer in Dartmouth and the surrounding areas – seasoned hikers should try the 10 mile route from nearby Kingswear to Brixham, which takes in breathtaking views of the River Dart and Kingswear Castle.

Those preferring more casual saunters are also catered for, with a varied choice of short strolls available in this beautiful area.

For Old Romantics

For couples looking for a special evening, seek out the renowned restaurant The Seahorse in Dartmouth situated adjacent to the River Dart.

This indemand restaurant run by well known chef Mitch Tonks serves up a variety of exquisite locally sourced seafood and shellfish and is the perfect destination for an intimate dinner for two.

Dine on freshly prepared crab and lobster accompanied by a selection of fine wines.

For those watching their wallet, a two course menu for £20 is also offered.

For Naval Fans

Why not take take a guided public or private tour of Britannia Royal Naval College?

The College is the initial officer training establishment of the Royal Navy and has a stunning hilltop location.

2013 marks the 150th anniversary of Royal Navy Officer training in Dartmouth and tours are available in May and throughout 2013.

For The Family

Woodlands Theme Park near Dartmouth offers a host of rides and activities within its sprawling 60 acre grounds.

This all-weather adventure park is hosting fun-filled performances every day during the Half Term with the park playing host to themed entertainers including clowns and jugglers.

Plus the admission fee includes indoor play centers, a petting zoo and a falconry center.

The award-winning Pennywell Farm in Buckfastleigh has planned a host of activities for the Half Term week.

These include ferret racing and pond dipping.

The week also sees the return of the Two Legged Gymkhana and the daily miniature pig racing – guaranteed to entertain children and parents alike!

For Sailors (or would be sailors!)

Dartmouth is synonymous with sailing, with the River Dart providing a great setting for a day on the water.

Seasoned sailors can charter a yacht and complete novices can learn the basics from one of the many sailing schools.

Have these ideas whetted your appetite for taking a holiday in Dartmouth, South Devon?

Then check out the selection of quality Dartmouth holiday cottages provided by Coast & Country Cottages.

Romantic Holidays to Dorset Coast Cottages

One of the best places to enjoy a romantic getaway in the whole of the United Kingdom is the Dorset coast.

Located along England’s southwestern shores and bordered by the English Channel, Dorset’s coastline is visually stunning.

In fact, it’s the perfect setting for enjoying long, intimate strolls while soaking in the gorgeous sights.

Best Luxury UK Cottages – Packed with literary and historical significance along with some of the most charming cottages found anywhere, Dorset is an ideal escape for new lovers or for those looking to rekindle a romance.

Cottages are by far the best accommodation choice along the Dorset coast.

An amazing assortment of cottages is found throughout the shire, and nearly any of them promise the perfect setting for a romantic escapade.

Choose from a Dorset Holiday Cottages set amid colorful fishing villages or a house that’s perched above the rocky shore.

Either way, guests are certain to enjoy lovely gardens, homey décor and all of the modern conveniences wrapped in historic structures.

Many of the cottages are converted barns or stables that have been extensively renovated.

Loaded with charm and with comfort to spare, these cottages are perfect for a weekend, a week or even longer.

Among the typical amenities in Dorset coast cottages are gourmet kitchens that make it simple for guests to prepare delicious homemade fare for every meal.

However, many of these accommodations are situated conveniently close to local pubs and restaurants, so letting someone else do the prep work and cleanup is always an option.

Bedrooms are frequently spacious and always well appointed.

Guests will find top of the line bed linens along with luxurious mattresses that offer the perfect night’s sleep. Many properties are just big enough for two with plenty of cozy niches to ensure romantic evenings.

Dorest Coast It’s romantic

The Dorset coast is also a romantic place to go exploring.

Many historic manor homes and their gracious grounds are open to the public.

Visitors enjoying a romantic getaway won’t want to miss Thomas Hardy’s two homes in the area.

These include the cottage where he was born in 1840 and the stately Max Gate.

This is house Hardy designed himself.

He lived in it until his death in 1928.

The breathtaking Kingston Lacy house is an excellent example of a country manor that was inspired by Italian art and architecture.

With displays of priceless works of art by world-renowned painters like Titian and Rubens, a tour of the house is a necessity.

Do not miss the picturesque grounds, which include a charming Japanese garden.

Dorset Coast’s Knoll Gardens

A stroll through the lovely Knoll Gardens is another excellent means to while away a romantic afternoon in Dorset.

These gardens are simply spectacular in any season, and make for the perfect backdrop for a lovely photograph to commemorate any visit.

Tourists can also pick up a number of specialist plants at the local nurseries.

There’s no better way to remember a wonderful weekend in Dorset than with an azalea or rosebush that blooms year after year.

The wild and enchanting coastline is the scene for romantic lounging in the sand or hand-in-hand strolls along the waterfront.

With 100 miles of beaches there is always more to explore, and much of the landscape is quite secluded.

This makes couples feel like they are the last people on Earth.

If the temperatures are warm, then a stop at Weymouth may be in order.

It’s one of the best places in Dorset to bathe in the sea.

The awe-inspiring cliffs of West Bay are worthy of dozens of photographs, and a stop at Lyme Regis is essential for Jane Austen devotees or those who enjoy golden sand and beautiful views.

Being active in the outdoors can also be part of a romantic Dorset coast escape.

A horse ride is the perfect way to survey the countryside or enjoy the grand seascapes.

There are numerous reputable stables in the area.

This makes it possible for both novice and seasoned riders to partake in this romantic, old-fashioned adventure.

Couples who love to golf, hike or fish will also find many opportunities to indulge in their favorite shared hobby.

It’s a wonderful way to build memories.

Dorset Hambledon Hill

Dorset has so many fascinating ancient sites.

Trekking to Hambledon Hill is an unforgettable effort that repays visitors with a hill fort from the Iron Age.

Several ramparts are easy to view, and the spot’s archaeological importance is undeniable.

Visitors who would rather see a fairy tale kingdom can visit Corfe Castle.

With its tumbledown walls and majestic air, it’s a tangible reminder of an earlier era.

It’s impossible to not feel romantic and adventurous while traversing this magnificent site.

With so many fun and fascinating things to do, the Dorset coast makes for an ideal couple’s getaway.

Prepare for your holidays and learn about the wealth of cozy and well-appointed cottages.

They are the perfect complement to a sojourn in this picturesque destination.

Ways to Be an Effective Parent Without Losing Your Cool

Ways to Be an Effective Parent: The moment the pregnancy test came back positive, you were determined to be an amazing, fun and cool mom.

Maybe your own parents tended to be somewhat uptight, or you have seen other moms who are so focused on rules and regulations that they end up having poor relationships with their children.

Regardless of your motivation, you are now a devoted mom who loves her kids more than life itself.

And, thanks to the following tips, you can still achieve your goal of being a cool mom.

Check out the following suggestions:

Essential Items Can Still Be Fun

As you probably know quite well, kids of all ages require a stunning amount of paraphernalia.

From clothes and accessories to even the car that you drive, being a parent will impact your shopping choices in a number of ways.

If you have babies or other young children at home — essentially, small humans that still allow you to dress them.

Skip the boring monochromatic onesies, t-shirts and pants for outfits that have a high cool factor and then wear something that complements your kid’s look.

For example, Band-Tees has a wide selection of rock and roll related outfits for babies and toddlers as well as adults; this includes Pearl Jam onesies and Grateful Dead t-shirts.

Your toddler can rock the Eddie Vedder look while you sport a Nirvana t-shirt.

Another great example of buying essential items that are still cool is the ubiquitous minivan.

Yes, minivans are amazing vehicles for growing families, but no, they do not have to be boring rides.

For example, if you are in the market for a new mom-mobile, you may want to check out the Chrysler Pacifica.

The Pacifica is a great option for a cool mom like yourself; it comes with awesome features like touch screens, a 20-speaker sound system (to play the aforementioned Pearl Jam while driving the kids to school), and the ability to go from zero to 60 in under 7 seconds.

Get to Know What They Like and Join In

If you ever felt like your parents had no clue about what shows you liked or music you listened to, you can break this cycle by joining your kids in their interests as much as possible.

Spend time asking your kids about what they like to do, and then take part in the activities as often as you can.

For younger kids who adore video games, resist the urge to let them play in the family room while you catch up on chores.

Ask your son to teach you about his favorite game and say that you’d like to play too.

He will probably be delighted to share everything he knows about Mario or Crash Bandicoot.

If your daughter loves to play golf, talk with her about her lessons, practice sessions and upcoming tourneys and truly listen to what she has to say.

Suggest a mom-daughter golf outing; she may cackle at your inability to putt, but she will be thrilled that you are taking an interest in what she loves to do.

Give Them Some Space

As much as your adore your kiddos, a great way to be a “cool” mom is to back off from time to time and give your precious kids some space.

Keeping your distance in certain instances can also help to strengthen your bond with your kids.

Resist the urge to question your middle schooler’s desire to wear mismatched socks, and let your tweens spend the afternoon in their rooms on weekends texting their friends.

While you may want to be friends with your kids on social media, don’t post comments on their photos and try not to hover when they have friends over.

By playing it cool, you will be cool — and your kids will definitely thank you for it.

Being a cool mom does not mean canceling household rules and letting your kids take over.

It basically boils down to being there for them, getting to know them and their interests, and purchasing items that express your uniqueness and theirs too.

Unique Day Trips in the UK with the Kids

With the usual string of walks and adventure parks on most families’ agendas, it’s always nice to shake things up a bit with Days Out In the UK.

In the UK, we have no shortage of quaint – and just plain weird – things to do and sights to see for interesting unique day trips in the UK with the kids.

For a quirky trip with the kids, look no further than the following attractions:

The Cumberland Pencil Museum

Calling all pencil fanatics, this is your idea of cloud nine.

Hopefully, your kids love coloring, because you won’t be able to turn around without spotting a pencil or two.

Within the rooms of the pencil museum, you can find the largest pencil in the world – standing at 8m long, it was clearly made for a giant.

The Cumberland Pencil Museum offers art workshops throughout the year on how to achieve stunning pencil masterpieces.

Isle of Arran

When you picture days out in Scotland, you probably think of piling on the clothes, rather than taking them off.

However, at the Isle of Arran, you can bare all to the unforgiving Scottish weather.

At least it’s unlikely to be crowded…

Diggerland

If your kids have grown up with a whole farmyard of toy diggers, this odd day out may go down a treat.

Diggerland is in fact a theme park where you can drive these huge behemoths yourself.

Just think of it as digging practice for your vegetable patch later.

Nessie-Spotting, Loch Ness

This has got to be even less fruitful than bird watching, but travelling to Loch Ness, you can stand by the giant lake yourself and see if you can catch the legendary beast with your own eyes.

But let’s face it; you’re going to be waiting there a loooooooooong time.

Genesis Expo Creation Museum

If you don’t mind exposing your children to the utter craziness that is the theory of Creationism, this could a rather…enlightening… experience.

Effectively, this whole museum flies in the face of science and says “you, sir, are wrong.”

Warning: you may leave significantly stupider than when you arrived, but it may be an enjoyable way to kill some time (and brain cells).

Knowsley Safari Park

Probably the most ‘normal’ day out on our list, Knowsley is pretty standard, as far as safari parks go, but the animals are weird and wonderful.

From Egyptian fruit bats to the feathery Rheas.

Expand your wildlife knowledge with the kids in tow, and marvel at how evolution must have been drunk when it created the Pink Fairy Armadillo.

National Space Center

So…the UK isn’t exactly famous for its exploration of the universe…unless you count our surplus of sci-fi writers.

But hey, you can still look at some retro astronaut suits at the National Space Center.

We may not have the credentials of NASA but it does have a planetarium (yay, stars!) and a 3D simulator.

And who knows, you may have the next Neil Armstrong on your hands!

Family Fun Days Out in Blackpool

When you think of Blackpool, you think of a seaside town in Northern England, quintessentially British with battered fish and chips eaten with wooden forks followed by multicolored sticks of rock.

Images of the Pleasure Beach fill your mind, with ear-piercing screams of thrill-seekers riding the Big One.

Visions of the Illuminations filling the skyline once a year.

There’s a lot more to Blackpool though, not least of which is the fantastic zoo and sea life center that attract tourists all year round.

A perfect day out for you and your family, Blackpool Zoo and Sea Life Center are too large to do all in one day.

Have a browse through the available Blackpool hotels and make a base for your family overnight to ease the madness of doing everything within a measly time frame.

Start with Blackpool Zoo.

Celebrating 40 years this year, this fantastic site offers a huge range of things to do including seeing animals from all over the world.

Be sure to check out the largest primate in the world, the majestic gorilla, in the custom built Gorilla House which opened in 2000.

With the latest addition to the gorilla family, Meisie, being born in 2010, you’ll be able to watch as she grows in a human like fashion.

Watch as she tantrums, runs rings round her mum and explores her fabulous home.

Explore the Lost World and come face to face with terrifying dinosaurs of the prehistoric age on a dinosaur safari.

Explore the theories as to what made these gigantic beasts extinct all those years ago.

Also available at the zoo is an experience of a lifetime.

Get up close and personal with some of the world’s most beautiful creatures with an animal encounter.

Meet Zambar, a stunning Amur tiger, or learn the secrets of an animal trainer on a Trainer for the Day experience which is available until the end of September.

Play with the lemurs and the tapirs and treat your family to a fabulous rendezvous with some fabulous characters.

If you can wait until new dates are released, you could also organize to be a Keeper for the Day and see what it really takes to care for the animals in Blackpool Zoo.

Although these experiences are fully booked for now, 2013 dates will be available to book from the 3rd September and costs £175 or £325 for two people – well worth it considering the treats that the program has in store.

The following day, make your way to the Sea Life Center on the Promenade.

New is the Turtle Shelter and Behind the Scenes tours, where you team up with an expert guide to learn more about what it takes to be an aquarist.

Check out the interactive rock pool and the shark-infested waters that a tunnel will guide you through, before letting the kids loose in the soft play area and pirate adventure golf course.

Fabulous days out for the whole family, you can’t go far wrong with high quality zoos and sea-life centers and Blackpool has both!

(photo credit: 1 – 1 – 2 – 4 – 1 – ChrisSullivan – PJAR72 – Kieran Nguyen – u07ch – 1 – 2 – 3 – 4 – 1 –  3 – 4 – 5 – 1 – 3 –  4 – 1 – 1, 2, 3, 4)

Barcelona vs. Madrid – Spain is an amazing country that has a lot to be proud of in terms of incredible things to do, remarkable places to revel in, and a rich culture to soak up.

Travelers who want to venture to the beautiful land of Spain are usually confronted by a dilemma of which city to visit between these two, and weighing down pros and cons can be a feat, since both have so much to offer, and both are remarkably different from one another.

What is evident between this Barcelona vs. Madrid battle is that it all really boils down to personal tastes—ask yourself what is more important to you, and what are the things you find yourself you enjoy doing the most when you travel.

Do you prefer a bustling, active nightlife, or visiting museums?

Do you thrive in busy, edgy, urban atmospheres, or prefer a laid back vibe by the beach?

Both cities are great on their own, which makes deciding between the two of them immensely difficult, and a common debate between travelers.

But, if you don’t have the time or resources to pull off both cities during your trip to Spain, hopefully this article will help you decide which city will be more enjoyable and worthwhile for you.

Our video of our visit to Barcelona
Exploring Barcelona by Car – Barcelona Day Trips

Barcelona vs. Madrid

Barcelona Location and Climate

Barcelona is located on the northern part of Spain in an autonomous area in the Mediterranean, and it is closer to the border between Spain and France.

Barcelona is a larger city, with beach scapes and surrounded by a mountainous area.

It experiences a subtropical Mediterranean climate, featuring humid summers and rainy seasons.

Spain’s capital Madrid is quite landlocked, as it is located in the geographical center perched on top of a plateau, and it is also the highest capital in Europe.

With this said, climate here is extreme, and Madrid experiences really chilly winters and very hot summers.

Madrid’s city center is much smaller than Barcelona as well, but you can arrange several trips to other parts of Spain such as Salamanca, Segovia and Toledo, using Madrid as your home base.

Both cities have great international airports that do service a great deal of international flights, but if you’re travelling by land, and coming from France and nearby European countries, you can easily rent a car and drive there and cross the border yourself, or you can take a train or a bus.

Barcelona is a great, convenient stop for travelers who are doing a land-based Euro trip.

Since Madrid’s location is higher and more centralized, unless you will be flying going here, it will take you more time to go to this city land-based as it is further away from the rest of the Europe.

Barcelona Sights to See

The most common thing people will instantly associate Barcelona with is with the mention of Antoni Gaudi, a world-renowned architect noted for his remarkable stunning Art Nouveau buildings found all over Barcelona, such as La Sagrada Familia Cathedral, and several structures ranging from parks, to residential buildings, which all have Gaudi’s signature style and masterful details.

Gaudi’s architecture alone is worth visiting Barcelona for.

Barcelona also has a lot of beaches to soak up some sun in, and this is what greatly differentiates the two cities apart.

Madrid, on the other hand, is a very classy city that has beautiful, majestic European architecture, numerous historical sites, ancient buildings, grandiose Madrid museums such as Museo del Prado, which is the second largest in the world.

Madrid’s streets are considered more picturesque and charming than those of Barcelona’s, and this city is one that begs to be explored on foot as it is very, pleasantly walkable.

The whole city itself is both complex and beautiful with a distinct Spanish authenticity.

Things to Do in Barcelona

Barcelona is notable for having a topnotch nightlife, with its beautiful discotheques, and its party nature.

Since there are beaches here, spending time under the sun along the shore is a major feature that the other city does not have.

The atmosphere in Barcelona is more sophisticated, cosmopolitan, and the vibe is more European.

It’s also more expensive to travel here.

Madrid, on the other hand, offers a lot of cultural activities such as musicals, theater, great art at the Reina Sofia, flamenco, tapas bars, and charming cafes.

The overall vibe here in Madrid is decidedly more Spanish in terms of its gems.

While you can’t hit the beach in Madrid, you can revel in its many beautiful parks.

In terms of nightlife, both cities have an active, bustling nightlife that will blow you away.

The great distinction between both, however, is who are the ones doing the partying.

Since Barcelona draws in more tourists, its partying is also done mostly by the tourists, so the scene is more international.

In Madrid, naturally ingrained in the nature of Madrilenians is partying, so the party scene here is more local, and more vivacious and authentically Spanish.

Both places will not have a shortage of exciting things to offer, and food in both cities are incredible.

Mealtimes in Spain come much later than the rest of the world, as its commonplace here to have lunch at 3pm, whilst dinner can be as late as 10pm.

Going to bars can commence around 12pm to 2am, until the wee hours of the morning.

In both places you will be introduced to the culture of having tapas, which are small plates of food with either meat or seafood to be eaten together with friends and colleagues.

Barcelona People

The Spanish are a remarkable people, and are considered to be people who are fun, and they love celebrating the good things in life.

This is evident in their culture of siesta, drinking, vibrant nightlife, and numerous celebrations.

Barcelona and Madrid speak different languages, as Barcelona speaks both Spanish and Catalan, while Madrid speaks Spanish.

If people’s warmth and friendly nature is important to you when traveling, Madrid is the place for you, as the Spanish here are generally more helpful and forgiving towards tourists.

In Barcelona, people can be quite unfriendly and rude, as a lot of tourists have mentioned.

As far as crowds go, Barcelona is way more touristy and is far more crowded than Madrid.

Barcelona Transportation

Getting around the city is convenient since both cities have an excellent underground metro station, and the high-speed Eurorail.

Tourists will find the metro system easy to navigate.

However, Madrid’s metro is better in terms of quality, cleanliness, timeliness, and efficiency.

Both cities also have buses and taxis aplenty.

The bus is priced averagely, but will require you to speak a bit of Spanish for you to easily get yourself from one point to another.

Barcelona Cost of Living

While both cities are both in the list of the top most expensive cities in the world and neither are cheap, a lot of tourists do say that Barcelona will set you back by just a little bit more than Madrid.

However, this may be because Barcelona as previously mentioned, can be quite the tourist trap.

There aren’t vast differences between one another in terms of prices of commodities.

It largely depends on what you intend to do in each city, in which your preferences will also determine the perceived value of money in this places.

However, if you are wondering if both cities can be good for budget travelers, the answer is that it can be, if you compare it to the other countries in West Europe.

A conservative budget to set aside in both cities is around €50/day, but it’s very possible to get by with less than that amount if you decide to be more frugal.

There has been a long standing rivalry between Barcelona vs. Madrid, not only between locals but also between loyal visitors who all praise that their favorite is better than the other for one reason or another.

So let’s stir it up a bit and compare the cities with this cool infographic from HostelBookers 😛 – where would you prefer to go?

Barcelona Art and Architecture

Barcelona is a city where the mysterious past and the sleek future mingle in perfect harmony.

Around one corner visitors encounter structures that have stood for more than four centuries.

Around another, they stumble across the jaw-dropping, modernistic marvel that is the Design Hub.

It’s a place where people can wonder at the genius of Picasso by day and dance the night away under a gorgeous Spanish sky at one of the many clubs.

Barcelona is bursting with life of all sorts and descriptions.

It’s no surprise that so many people are anxious to return.

barcelona

Barcelona’s population of about 1.8 million genuinely enjoy the good life.

Their ancient city is perched on the gorgeous Mediterranean Sea, giving it summers that are dry and warm.

Even winter is beautiful when you visit Barcelona.

Mild weather prevails, and it’s not unusual to experience high temperatures of 63°F during January, the coldest month.

No matter the weather, Barcelona is a hive of activity.

It thrives on commerce, with manufacturing and tourism being major industries.

However, it’s also an exceptionally artistic destination.

Some of history’s greatest artists have called the city home.

Many of today’s foremost artists continue that tradition by taking advantage of the community’s creative energies.

Barcelona is regarded as one of the most livable cities in the world.

Locals enjoy a particularly high standard of life, and that’s something that visitors can take advantage of too.

Hcc Ciutat De Berga Hotel – Barcelona

Enjoying the good life in Barcelona starts with selecting the right accommodations.

HCC Ciutat de Berga just might be the best value in the region thanks to its amenities and outstanding location.

The hotel is found to the northwest of central Barcelona in the charming city of Berga.

It’s a city like Barcelona that comes right out of medieval times, yet manages to balance a thriving textile industry with ease.

Visitors love being able to stay at the Ciutat de Berga.

Its excellent location puts Barcelona, France and Andorra all within easy reach.

Yet this hotel is attractively affordable.

There’s simply no hotel close in to Barcelona that offers so much for such inexpensive rates.

Each room at the Ciutat de Berga is generously proportioned and features the modern amenities that today’s traveler has come to expect.

Free WiFi means guests can always stay connected while a high end heating and air conditioning system guarantees comfort no matter the weather or the season.

Rooms are equipped with full, private baths.

A complete array of toiletries is at hand in case anything has been forgotten at home.

A breakfast buffet is the perfect setting for planning a busy day of sightseeing.

The friendly, informative staff is ready to answer questions or help guests figure out which attractions appeal to them most.

Bar and cafe service are available for the comfort and enjoyment of every guest.

Onsite parking facilities are secure and convenient.

Thanks to all of the thoughtful details at this hotel, guests are free to enjoy the region after a pleasant night’s sleep.

That is excellent news, because Barcelona is teeming with marvelous sights that deserve to be seen.

Most tours should begin with a stroll down La Rambla.

By far Barcelona’s most famous boulevard, La Rambla stretches for a fascinating kilometer of performance artists, restaurants and attractions.

It’s the location of the monument to Christopher Columbus and the excellent La Boqueria Food Market.

Everyone should take a moment to drink from the famed Canaletas fountain along the way.

It’s said that a sip of water here ensures a return to Barcelona.

Picasso Museum Barcelona

The exploring only gets better in the El Born neighborhood.

It’s one of the city’s oldest quarters, dating back to the medieval era. Back then the dark and twisty streets were lined with artisan’s shops.

The scene is more upscale today, although it’s still possible to find outstanding shopping here.

This is also an excellent district for museums.

The Picasso Museum, with its collection of some 2,400 works by the master himself, is found here as is the interesting Textile Museum.

In a city as ancient as Barcelona, it’s only natural that museums command a special place in the hearts and minds of locals and visitors.

Perhaps the best of these is the Museu d’Historia de Catalunya.

A fascinating exploration of the city and Spain, a visit to this museum is an absorbing journey through the past.

The marvelous permanent exhibitions and rotating displays are worth of hours of examination.

Visitors come away with a unique perspective on the city and the people who live there.

Barcelona is a destination that offers something for everyone.

From a pulsing nightlife to awe inspiring museums, it’s a city that’s worthy of a repeat visit. With excellent accommodations at HCC Ciutat de Berga Hotel, visitors are prepared to fully experience this colorful and majestic city.

10 Free Attractions to Visit Barcelona This Summer

The second largest city in Spain, Barcelona differs from other Spanish cities as it is not blistering hot in summers.

Many locals go out of town from late July to early September, making the city quieter and less populated.

Barcelona offers a relaxing mix of everything Mediterranean, which includes months of warm sunshine, delicious food and relaxed pace of life.

Barcelona, A trip to visit Barcelona may not come as inexpensive but there are plenty of tourists’ attractions in the city which can be enjoyed for free. Planning A Quick Trip To Barcelona, Spain

La Rambla

The huge pedestrian-only boulevard running from Plaça Catalunya to the sea is lined with gorgeous buildings and restaurants.

The place is especially crowded during summer.

Street performers and, kiosks selling food, flower and souvenirs occupy the road.

Parc Güell

Designed by Gaudí, the park was originally meant to be a ‘garden city’, a place where workers could live.

A section of the park offers amazing view of Barcelona’s skyline.

Parc Guell is a charming blend of mosaics, garden and fairy tale houses.

Montjuic

The site of the 1992 Summer Olympic opening ceremonies, this area has museums, gardens and the National Palace.

Magical Fountain however is, no doubt the most popular with tourists.

The National Art Museum of Catalunya, located on Montjuic, is free on the 1st Sunday of every month.

Beaches

Spend your time swimming, sunbathing or just taking a stroll along the shore.

Spains beaches can be crowded in summer but are still worth a go.

Seaside Promenade in the Barcelona District

Take a stroll along the promenade to enjoy the enchanting view of the blue waters of the Mediterranean.

Architectural works of Gaudi

Some of the finest work of the famous Catalan architect, Gaudi, can be seen for free (from the outside) around the Eixample district.

The works include La Pedrera, Casa Batllo, and the incomplete La Sagrada Familia with La Sagrada Familia, possibly, the most recognized landmark in Barcelona.

Free Museums

Museums such as Museu Picasso, Museu Barbier-Mueller d’Art Precolombi, and Museu d’Historia de Catalunya are free on the first Sunday of each month.

Museu Maritim is free on the first Saturday of each month while the Museu de la Xocolata (chocolate museum) is free on the first Monday of each month.

Barcelona Cathedral

The medieval cathedral, built during from 13th to 15th Century, boasts a Gothic facade, chapels, vaulted interior and has a pretty garden and cloister.

Parc de la Ciutadella

The most central park in Barcelona, it covers an area of 74 acres and houses a lake, zoo and many museums.

The flowerbeds, palm tress, walkways, fountains and sculptures make the park a sought after place in the crowded city of Barcelona.

Festivals

One of the many famous festivals in Barcelona is Festa Major de Gràcia – a week long community celebration in the streets of Barcelona.

For this, streets in the Gràcia area are decorated by its residents depicting colorful themes.

At the end of September, the five day long Barcelona La Merce Festival takes place.

The festival is a great family event.

City Wars: Barcelona vs. Madrid

This feud could, and probably will, go on forever.

There are good and bad things about both cities, and depending on what you want you will find that one city fits your needs better.

As both cities are extremely popular, you would think that when it comes to finding Cheap Hotels, Barcelona and Madrid would disappoint – but this is surprisingly not the case.

There are many cheap hostels and restaurants to keep your wallet happy.

Another factor we would like to add to this inforgraphic is the “entertainment” factor – Madrid has the better museums, where, for the record, two of the best are free every night of the week.

But Barcelona has that “wow” factor with incredible architecture that you see by just walking down the street.

Its amazing how 2 cities can be vastly different from each other, and these differences make each of these two places unique from one another.

It needs to be noted here that because Barcelona and Madrid have had different histories, there is an ongoing rivalry between them until now between the Madrilenians and the Catalans, for many reasons that go down deep in history.

However, like what has been stated in the start of this article, it all greatly depends on what your preferences are.

To summarize:

Barcelona is great for people, who prefer an active, more European vibe.

It’s for lovers of the beach and the sun, and though this place is heavily touristy, it is touristy for great reasons, most notably the architecture that’s definitely not to be missed.

Madrid is a city that’s for lovers of culture and art, and those who decidedly want a more authentic and classy urban-meets-old world Spanish experience.

It’s a place to immerse yourself in if you would like to absorb more of the vibrant cultural scene and its people.

Whichever your choice is between who wins the Barcelona vs. Madrid debacle, there are no wrong choices to be made either way.

Both cities are great on their own, and they just happen to be in the same country, which is why it is inevitable not to compare them to one another.

Best things to do in Madrid Spain

Things To Do In Madrid, Spain – Madrid is a vibrant city with huge contrasts and diversity; 17th century buildings line up along cobble stoned lanes, next to sky scrapers and wide shopping boulevards, the bullfight traditions live on together with gay pride festivals.

The list of things to do in Madrid Spain are endless, but we’ll try to sum it up with a few of our favorite picks to give you a good time.

Visit The Huge Palacio de Real

A visit to Palacio de Real, the royal residence and gardens, should be high on your list of things to in Madrid.

It is one of the the largest royal palaces in Europe, and 50 of the 2,800 (!) rooms are open for the public.

But it’s not so much the sheer size of the palace, but its stunning architecture, that makes the biggest impression.

The rooms inside, such as the royal pharmacy, the porcelain room, the clock room (I guess they had to find some use for all the rooms) are quite impressive, but unfortunately you’re not allowed to take any photos.

Avoid visiting on Wednesdays as that day is free entry for locals, so it tends to get very busy!

A Day at the Prado Museum

Madrid has some of the best museums in the country, not to mention Europe, that will make even the museum-hater want to visit, especially considering that many of them are free at different days and times of the year.

Out of all things to do in Madrid, a visit to the Prado museum is the most popular.

The Prado has one of the most important collections of 14th-19th century European art in the world, and while the entry is €10 during the days, from 6pm-8pm entry it’s completely free (and apparently also free for “unemployed”).

Other great museums to check out and to give yourself more things to do in Madrid are Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza, Reina Sofia and Sorolla museum.

Meet Up At Plaza Mayor

One more place that cannot be missed in Madrid is the main square – Plaza Mayor.

It is the classic meeting point for everyone in Madrid, and a great place for people -watching.

This is where the action is, where festivals and concerts are held, and the perfect starting point for exploring the city.

The square surrounded by Baroque buildings and over 400 balconies was built by order of the Spanish King Phillip III.

It was designed by Juan Gomez de Mora, the most famous Spanish architect of the 17th century.

Go For A Tapas Crawl

Architecture and culture in all honor, but one of the most fun things to do in Madrid is to experience the awesome nightlife and amazing cuisine.

They say that Madrid is the most Spanish of all cities, and when it comes to cuisine, this is definitely true.

Going out for tapas (ir a tapear) in Madrid, has become something more than just dining out – it’s a “tapas crawl”.

Just like with bar crawls, you seek out the specialties of each tapas restaurant, have a few picks, wash it down with alcohol, and move on to the next bar.

There are many little cafes and bars where you can have a drink or even a full Spanish meal for a reasonable price, such as Acostiña Madrid, not far from the main square.

Visit Parks & Fountains

A visit to Madrid wouldn’t be complete without seeing the fabulous fountains; fountain of Cibeles, Neptune fountain, fountain of Apollo and of course The Fountain of the Fallen Angel (the only statue to Lucifer in the whole world) are all worth a look.

Madrid is often described as an “open air museum” as every building and every statue in the city is a real masterpiece.

Everything in the city reminds us about its glorifying past.

Other beautiful places to relax are the green, lush parks in Madrid; especially Retiro Park – a big park where locals and tourists alike relax in the shade with a picnic.

Madrid Spain the ultimate Spanish experience

Madrid is the vibrant capital city of Spain, all day and all night long.

Madrid is a city that would require years to satisfactorily explore.

Its lengthy history, mysterious cobbled lanes and startlingly modern skyscrapers beckon to tourists from the world over.

However, most people only have a few days to delve into all that this quintessentially Spanish city has to offer, making it imperative to identify its must-see sights and attractions.

While it might not have the architectural wonders of Barcelona, this is where the true Spanish culture is most vibrant, and there are many ways to soak up the Spanish culture, history and atmosphere.

Madrid is a city that would require years to satisfactorily explore.

Its lengthy history, mysterious cobbled lanes and startlingly modern skyscrapers beckon to tourists from the world over.

However, most people only have a few days to delve into all that this quintessentially Spanish city has to offer, making it imperative to identify its must-see sights and attractions.

Whether you want to spend your days gazing at awe-inspiring 17th century cathedrals or looking for fantastic bargains at the Rastro, you’ll find something fascinating around every corner.

This is one city where the ancient and the modern sit comfortably side-by-side.

It’s possible to enjoy the traditional spectacle of bullfighting by day and then patronize some of the most cutting-edge clubs at night. Experiencing it all is impossible.

Still, there are a few sights that most people agree are the ones that visitors shouldn’t miss.

One of these is the Museo del Prado, Spain’s national art museum.

It is the Louvre’s rival in every way with its stunning collection of European art ranging from the 12th century to the modern day.

Established in 1819, the Prado quickly made a name for itself as the showplace for Spain’s great artists.

It maintains that reputation although the collection’s depth has grown considerably.

Not far from the Prado is the National Archaeological Museum.

It houses collections that were once a part of the Prado but had to be moved to make additional space for art galleries.

This other museum features fascinating collections of art and artifacts from Mesopotamia, Rome, Egypt and Greece.

Together with the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum which is where the Prado moved much of its works by Dutch, German and other painters, this complex makes for a fascinating day of exploring art history.

If seeing a castle is high on your list of things to do, you won’t want to miss the opportunity to explore the New Castle of Manzanares el Real.

Built in the 15th century and situated only 30 miles north of the city, the castle looks precisely as a fairy tale edifice ought to.

A breathtaking backdrop of mountains and a sparkling reservoir provide the perfect setting for the crenellations and ramparts of this classically-designed castle.

The village of Manzanares el Real is equally charming, offering a wonderful day trip for lovers of history and culture.

Authentic Madrid can be experienced at Plaza Mayor, a one-time food market that is now the ideal spot for al fresco dining, people watching and souvenir shopping.

Thanks to its excellent acoustic properties, this is also one of the best places in the city to listen to live music.

Visitors seeking unexpected or unusual bargains won’t want to pass up El Rastro found just south of Plaza Mayor.

At this outdoor market shoppers find antiques, junk and everything in between.

Whatever you’re looking for, you’re certain to be entertained.

Madrid is a wonderful city for enjoying tapas, watching exciting flamenco dancing or getting familiar with bullfighting.

Whichever adventures you choose are destined to be memorable.

Madrid Spain the Ultimate Spanish Experience Tapas Bar Crawl

Madrid has perhaps more tapas bars than any other city in Spain, and one of the best ways to indulge in these delicious delicacies is to go for a tapas bar crawl.

You see, every tapas bar is famous for their own specific dish, and rather than picking one place, it’s better to have one dish at one bar, then go to the next for their specialty, and then to the next.

That way you also get to see more of the city and explore different bars and meet lots of people.

Flamenco Show

The colorful, joyful flamenco can be experienced in many venues across the city.

To get the most authentic experience, watch it at a tablao (restaurant with a stage).

The highlight of the shows are past midnight, which may sound late to many tourists, but it’s actually not until then that the nightlife truly begins in Madrid.

Shop For Shoes

Madrid is a great shopping city in general, but when it comes to shoes, it is one of the best in Europe.

The street where you will find the best buys is along Augusto Figueroa, in the heart of Chueca, which is lined with outlets for factory samples.

Some great shoe brands to look for are Farrutx, Camper and Lowee.

Visit the Parks

One of the most beautiful places in Madrid is the Parque del Oeste in Argüelles, which is a favorite among locals to hang out and relax on sunny summer days.

During summer the whole park smells of roses from the huge blossoming rose garden, and every year there is an international rose contest taking place there.

The park also has views over the Palacio Real and the Egyptian temple Templo de Debod.

Spanish Desserts You Must Try

Spain prides itself on its unique and distinct cuisine, and while their hearty meals will certainly fill you up, we do recommend that you save some space for the desserts – because they’re absolutely amazing..!

Here are five favorite Spanish desserts you must try…

Flan

Flan is a type of egg custard topped with caramel sauce.

It’s jelly-like in texture, and melts in your mouth. It’s one of those dishes that you’ll be able to finish no matter how full you think you are after the dinner meal.

Creme Catalana

This is the Catalan version of crème brulée, with a crispy top of burnt sugar, and a soft pudding inside.

Generally prepared on Spain’s Father’s day, but you can find it throughout the whole year as well.

Turrón

Turrón is a very old traditional sweet of Moorish (Arabic) origin.

This almond candy / nougat treat is a typical Christmas sweet in Spain.

While almonds and honey are the main ingredients, it also comes in many different flavors and varieties.

Bunuelos de Viento

Spanish fritters have to be among the best fried snacks there is!

Light and fluffy, these fritters filled with egg custard, marmelade or pastry cream literally melt in your mouth!

Mantecados

Another Christmas cookie, the Mantecados are a favorite among locals and something to look forward to every winter.

The rich crumbly cookies have that significant anise flavor that few other cookies manage to balance this well.

Polvorones

Polvo is the Spanish word for dust, and as the name suggests these cookies are very dusty and crumbly in texture.

They’re soft and heavy, made of flour, sugar, milk and nuts – and are very easy to make.

Although traditionally a Christmas cookie, people eat these all year round today.

These are just a few out of many delicious Spanish treats and desserts, you can enjoy in Madrid or Barcelona!

(photo credit: 1,  1)