Europe

Top Things to See in Sardinia

March 25, 2017 by admin Leave a Comment

I was reading this awesome infographic recently which reminded me of the week that I spent in Sardinia a few years ago. I travel a great deal and occasionally locations do slip through the mind so it was a welcome reminder of the amazing week that I had on this beautiful Mediterranean Island. I absolutely love the Med, easily one of my favorite regions in Europe, if not the World and this little island offers the very best of it. If 2,000km of beautiful Mediterranean coastline, rugged mountains with hiking trails, tasty cuisine and great sights are your thing, then Sardinia is definitely for you and here is what you should see when you are there.

Gallura

Santa Teresa Gallura is a must for anyone traveling to Sardinia, sat in the northern most area of the island, this jagged and high-altitude region is a great place to get active. Throughout the small fiords, jagged landscape and stunning coastline you can visit the beach, take hiking trails through the rocky Valley of the Moon and take in outstanding views of the Strait of Bonafacio from Capo Testa.

Asinara National Park

There are some islands which sat just outside Sardinia and Asinara, the place they call Devil’s Island, is the third largest and most beautiful. Some of the best beaches in Sardinia are on the coastline of Asinara and you won’t have to look long before you find one of its beautiful, secret coves. Also on the island you will find the native albino donkey wandering around as well as wide range of wildlife and marine life, it is for these reasons that the island was certified as a national park and just another reason why you should be heading to this beautiful island.

Sulcis Natural Park

To see the best in Sardinian nature and landscape, the Sulcis Natural Park is where you need to go. Sat in the southwest of the island this area of Sardinia has been inhabited for over 5,000 years and aside from its rich history, Sulcis has plenty for the tourist to explore. Dramatic red colored cliffs and transparent waters, along with forest regions and plenty of water activities thanks to its strong levels of wind is exactly what you will find in Surcis and you should definitely factor it into your visit to Sardinia.

There are many ferries to Sardinia which leave the Italian mainland from ports such as Genoa, Napoli, Livorno and Piombino. The ferries take around 8-10 hours and many offer overnight packages which mean that you can simply turn up, enjoy a glass of wine on the deck as you float across the Mediterranean Sea, have a snooze and then wake up in this beautiful island. There are also flights available to Sardinia but the ferry is well worth doing and a far more relaxed way to get to the island.

Must Visit Places in Catalonia

February 2, 2017 by admin Leave a Comment

Catalonia is situated in the north east of Spain, it is a region which has probably been most famous as a result of its capital city Barcelona. Whilst there is very good reason why Barcelona is Catalonia’s most famous destination, there is much more to this incredible Spanish region. The next time you are in northern Spain, consider these fantastic places to spend your time in the beautiful Catalan region.

Montjuïc

Montjuic is a large sprawling hill that sits on the edge of Barcelona, this area of Catalonia has been a dramatically changing feature and over the years it has been transformed into a heritage site which offers lots of cultural museums and beautiful views over the harbor. On a visit to this area you can admire the magic fountain of Montjuïc an incredible water feature which is lit up every night by a spectacular and colorful light show.

Costa Brava

In the Catalan region of Girona lies a part of the beautiful Costa Brava coastline, the coast stretches right the way up to the French border and tourists can enjoy some of Spain’s finest beaches, a wonderfully hot climate and thanks to its, in parts, rocky coastline, beautiful views and lots of opportunities for adventures. This region has become popular amongst holiday-makers, hikers, climbers, real estate developers and entrepreneurs who are looking at turning the coastline into an even more popular resort.

La Sagrada Familia

The stunning gothic cathedral of La Basilica de la Sagrada Familia lies in the heart of Barcelona just a few corners away from the famous street of La Rambla. This cathedral was the brainchild of the incredible architect Antoni Gaudi, the man who shaped the Barcelona skyline and a man who was unfortunate enough not live long enough to witness the completion of his finest design. The cathedral is intricately designed with gothic touches and details throughout, it has been in construction since 1882 and is expected to be finished in 2023. Despite still being under construction you can still visit the cathedral and even take a tour around its minute detail and learn some history about the design and the construction itself. If you do visit Barcelona, then make the cathedral your first stop.

Go Skiing

You may not have thought that you could go skiing in the same region that allows you to relax on the beach in the sun or walk through a hot city center but that is exactly what you can do in the Pyrenees mountain range in Catalonia. The mountain range itself spreads across much of Spain and France but in the Catalan part of the range you can find yourself many ski resorts which offer some award-winning slopes for you to take on. In regions like Vall de Boi you will not only find beautiful alpine villages and tough ski slopes, but you can also discover old-age museums and vintage churches. Within just 2 or 3 hours of Barcelona you could find yourself high in the sky and surrounded by snow.

5 Bargain holiday destinations in Britain

January 14, 2017 by admin Leave a Comment

So far this year, it’s fair to say that the weather has been a little on the bleak side. However, it’s surely not going to rain forever, which will give those of you who are planning to go on holiday at some point a little bit of encouragement. If money’s a bit tight, you might want to consider staying in the UK in some great value accommodation.

Edinburgh

One great place to visit this year is the countryside near Edinburgh. Historic landmarks such as the city’s eponymous Castle, numerous museums, stunning countryside and events such as the Fringe Festival are all reasons to come here. As for finding somewhere to stay, holiday cottages can be booked through popular travel sites for reasonable prices.

Mersea Island

Mersea Island in Essex is a great place to visit if you want something a little different. Sampling the local oysters, visiting the island’s vineyard and enjoying the tranquil surroundings all appeal, especially if you want a quirky holiday on the cheap.

Cornwall

Cornwall is perhaps the most popular county in the UK with holidaymakers. Here, you’ll find a range of quirky yet charming places to stay including holiday cottages, hotels and service appartments. You can even stay in a holiday park in Cornwall. Rent a caravan with your family or even bring your own. You’ll have all the facilities and amenities you’d need for a comfortable stay, while also being closer to nature.

Isle of Wight

Camping is great during the summer, especially on the Isle of Wight. There, you can head to the beach, visit towns such as Newport, Ventnor and Ryde and go window shopping or, if you feel like it, go walking from coast to coast if you like to go wherever your feet take you. Getting the ferry over to the island is cheap and easy, plus the accommodation here’s not too pricey.

Derry

Derry is the UK’s City of Culture this year, and that title means that visitors may begin to flock to this part of Northern Ireland. As well as being within easy reach of Ulster’s most famous landmarks like Giant’s Causeway, it’s also hosting events such as the 2013 Turner Prize and various musicals, plays and exhibitions.

Where to go in Saint Germain

April 27, 2016 by admin Leave a Comment

A charming and popular neighbourhood, Saint Germain is located in the 6th arrondissement of Paris and houses art galleries, trendy cafes, nice restaurants and cosy cafes. The cafes of Saint Germain are a nice place to laze around and chill.

It is nestled on the church of the earlier Abbey of Saint-Germain-des-Prés. Saint Germain is known as the considered the centre of the existentialist movement.

Saint Germain is well connected to other parts of Paris from nearby metro stations Saint-Germain-des-Prés and Mabillon.

Here’s a list of what to do in Saint Germain:

Jardin du Luxembourg

Beautiful walkways, lovely looking trees, immaculate lawns and pretty flowerbeds characterise Jardin du Luxembourg. The gardens are bordered by Latin Quarter and St-Germain and cover 23 hectares of land.

Luxembourg Palace

Luxembourg Palace was first built by French architect Salomon de Brosse’s designs and later refurbished twice by Jean Chalgrin and Alphonse de Gisors respectively. It is located in the 6th arrondissement of Paris.

Rue de Seine

It is a lovely street in the 6th arrondissement that boasts of a rich history. There are antique dealers and art galleries. It is a good place for art lovers.

Odéon-Théâtre de l’Europe

Odéon-Théâtre de l’Europe is situated next to Jardin du Luxembourg and is one of France’s six national theatres. It was constructed by Marie-Joseph Peyre and Charles De Wailly between the years 1779 and 1782. It was redesigned in the year 1808 by Jean Chalgrin and then for the third and final time by Pierre Thomas Baraguay.

Musée Zadkine

Musée Zadkine was established by sculptor Ossip Zadkine’s wife and is committed to her husband’s work. There are roughly 300 sculptures along with some drawings, photographs and tapestries here.

Fontaine Saint-Sulpice

An epic fountain constructed by Louis Visconti between the years 1843 and 1848, Fontaine Saint-Sulpice is located in Place Saint-Sulpice in the 6th arrondissement. The fountain has four images symbolising Bossuet, Fénelon, Fléchier and Massillon, the four French religious figures of the seventeenth century.

Église st-germain-des-prés

This is Paris’s oldest church and was built to shelter a simple shard of wood which was believed to be a relic of Jesus’ cross brought back from Spain in AD 542.

Institut de France

It is one of the most sacred cultural institutions of the country.

The above mentioned are some of the places you should visit when you are in Saint Germain. Don’t forget to explore the small streets, talk to locals and enjoy your stay. To live like a local and not a tourist, stay in a Saint Germain serviced apartment and soak in the city.

Social Media Accounts – Google+ Twitter Facebook

Top 5 Things to do in Barcelona

March 7, 2016 by admin Leave a Comment

The Catalan capital, Barcelona is one of the most interesting cities in Europe, it has a warm climate, a stunning harbour and the city is adorned with some of the most artistically designed buildings in the World. There is so much to see and do in this beautiful part of Europe and here are my top 5 favourites to help you out on your next trip to Barcelona.

Nou Camp Visit

The Nou Camp or ‘Camp Nou’ is home to Barcelona football club, one of the most iconic football clubs in the World. If you are in town when there is a game on then you should most definitely try to grab a ticket and join over 100,000 other fans in this monster of a stadium. Even non-football lovers will enjoy the atmosphere here. If there isn’t a game on then you can take a tour through the iconic stadium and gain behind-the-scenes access to changing rooms and even stand on the pitch.

Wander La Rambla

La Rambla is the street that runs through the heart of Barcelona that culminates in the beautiful harbour. The street is used for festivities and daily markets and you can spend hours wandering down the pedestrian-friendly area taking in the best of the city. La Rambla features several outdoor bars and restaurants to relax in with some local food and drinks while you watch the World go by. On a nighttime the street lights up with street performers and as the markets continue to trade food stalls and nightclubs on the side streets begin to open up. La Rambla is most definitely the pulse of the city and a great way to pass your time in Barcelona.

Visit the Gothic Quarter

Much of Barcelona was designed and pioneered by it’s resident artist and architect Antoni Gaudi and non-more-so than the beautiful Gothic Quarter. This part of town used to be the the centre of Barcelona and here you can find a labyrinth of streets with various small squares. Littering the streets are local shops like bookstores, small food shops, craftshops and small clothing stores that sit within the medieval walls of the quarter. In the squares it is not rare to see people dancing and enjoying a glass or two in the bars that are set up on the street corners and if you want a true taste of old Barcelona then this where you will find it. The Quarter also houses several old churches and government buildings and if you take a tour of the Gothic Quarter you can even gain access to some of these fantastic buildings.

The Picasso Museum

The Spanish painter Pablo Picasso is one of the most important and recognised artists in European history and in Barcelona’s museum dedicated to him they house the most extensive collection of his work in the World. Barcelona meant a great deal to Picasso during his life and this museum was actually opened whilst he was still alive leading him to contribute many personal works to the collection. Museu Picasso not only displays the artists paintings but also several etchings, practice pieces and sculptures and is one of my most favourite art museums that I have ever visited.

Europe’s Top 5 Sunshine Breaks

January 16, 2016 by admin Leave a Comment

For many of us, taking a holiday abroad means finding a location with glorious sunshine, food and drink aplenty and nothing to do but relax and unwind from our daily lives. Finding the perfect place isn’t difficult in Europe but what can be difficult is whittling your options down to the perfect place, in light of that here are 5 European sunshine breaks where you simply can’t go wrong.

Corfu

Corfu is a Greek Island that has long been a mecca for tourism, it is blessed with beautiful views, a hot climate and of course, sumptuous Greek cuisine. Despite it’s popularity, there is still a lot of Corfu, particularly it’s beaches where you can feel a million miles away from anywhere. It is centred almost entirely around tourism meaning that there is little that the island can’t offer in terms of things to do whether it be partying, adventure, relaxation or pampering, Corfu is the place.

Marmaris

The Turkish resort of Marmaris lies on the Mediterranean Sea and offers a lively holiday with a bustling bar street, a long seafront promenade and a stunning backdrop of mountains and sea. The heat in the Summer months can be unbearable for some, at times hitting the high 40’s (C) but that gives you the perfect chance to sit in shade and grab a nice cool drink in one of the many seafront bars. The traditional Turkish souk’s or markets can be seen both on the streets and indoors in Marmaris, they offer everything from toys, clothes and traditional goods and give you a chance at trying your hand at bartering for the best price. Turkey is relatively cheap, there are plenty of flights there and lots of hotels in Marmaris to visit, a great breakaway.

Tenerife

Tenerife is blessed with having a hot climate for the large majority of the year and can be visited in both Winter and Summer months. It is a large island just off West Africa who’s landscape is dominated by the huge Mount Teide volcano, if visiting Tenerife then a cable car journey to the top is a must. Tenerife’s resorts cater for all whether you are looking for a boutique hotel or an all-inclusive getaway. The beaches are are stunning and reminiscent at times of the Caribbean, none-more-so than Playa del Duque, a wonderful little beach on the South Coast. If it’s sun and relaxation you’re looking for the you will certainly enjoy a week’s holiday in Tenerife.

Agadir

Agadir in Morocco has really grown in recent years in terms of popularity amongst sun seekers and now is a perfect time to visit as whilst tourism is growing, the city still remains very ,well, Moroccan. Traditional food, buildings, markets and culture exist across the whole city in spite of the modern resorts that have been built, mainly around the beach, for tourists. This gives you a great opportunity to both relax on the beach and experience real Moroccan culture. Agadir airport is large too and many European airports fly direct, so getting here is not difficult either.

Marbella

Marbella has a reputation in Europe as the glitz and glamour destination when it comes to sunshine breaks. It is true that there are a lot of ‘beautiful’ people who head to this resort on Spain’s Costa del Sol and there are many prestigious restaurants and bars in the area but that is not all. Marbella offers beautiful landscapes, glorious beaches, perfect weather , golf courses and a visit here really doesn’t have to break the bank. I think many dismiss this beautiful part of Spain for that reason but there are many ways you can visit ‘Marbs’ without financial worry.

Spain’s Top 3 Destinations

January 16, 2016 by admin Leave a Comment

I’m not sure where Spain’s current standing is in terms of travel destinations, for years it was of course the go-to place for European holiday makers in particular, sun, sea, sand and sangria. However, so much of the properties were bought up by ex-pats and so many of the quaint towns and resorts became very un-Spanish which put many people off visiting there. The country will always attract tourists to the big cities and the sunshine coasts are too hard to turn down for many, but regarding it’s level of cool, I think the nation has earned a reputation that maybe isn’t so accurate. Here are my 3 most beloved Spanish destinations.

Barcelona

Unknown

I simply can’t write a list like this without including the Catalan capital, it flows with passion from all places, in it’s art, it’s culture and it’s people. The heart of the city is a beautiful weaving maze of bars, restaurants, craft shops and beautifully designed buildings, inspired by or created by the famous artist Antoni Gaudi. The intricate cathedral that he designed is still under construction but it still looks absolutely breathtaking in it’s level of design and character. The vein of the city is Las Ramblas, the main street that flows all the way down to the gorgeous harbour. Las Ramblas is where the city comes alive at night with people selling wares to street performances and beautiful bars to sit outside and drink the night away. Barcelona’s airport is a great hub destination that can be reached from most big cities in the World and gives you access to the rest of Europe if you are planning a larger journey, if you are flying in then check out sites such as Monster Travel for great deals. Alternatively, you can reach the city by boat if visiting from another Mediterranean resort which is a wonderful way to enter the city in style. A beautiful city with so much to do that you’ll be returning before you know it.

Seville

Seville is the capital of Spain’s Andalusia region and it truly makes for a wonderful holiday destination. Seville is steeped in history from the Moorish occupation of Spain and the city is known for it’s ornate Alcazar castle complex which was built during these times. The city is a mecca for Flamenco dancing as well if you fancy having a go, especially in one of the neighbourhoods called Triana where there are flamenco bars and street dancing happening all the time. Another great place to visit in Seville is the huge bullring, if you are in luck and in Seville during the Seville Fair then you will be able to witness the biggest bullfighting festival in the World. A great experience and a beautiful place.

Valencia

Unknown-1

Valencia sits on Spain’s South East coast and in my opinion has a perfect combination of things to do and see both in the modern and traditional sense. The port city is very popular for those people taking cruises around the Mediterranean Sea and in recent years Valencia has seen a huge investment in tourism. The ultra modern Science museum and Art museum look both amazing from the outside and the inside and should not be missed on a trip to the city. Valencia also offers some beautiful beaches and the temperature during the Summer months perfect for spending some days on the beach. During the investment in Valencia many of the old, medieval buildings were restored and if history is your thing then you can spend a couple of days touring around the old churches, towers and quarters to get a feel of the city’s ancient past. Another important fact is that the beautiful dish Paella was created here so a trip wouldn’t be complete without sampling some of this beautiful Spanish cuisine.

France for the lonely traveler

September 17, 2015 by admin Leave a Comment

Are you lonely and in or near France? Well no worries in the land of love… whether you are trying to find love in the land of love or just rock it solo… then here is a list for you.

Ski or snowboard

O the dirty things I would do to a mountain like you Courchevel…

If you are single then you will understand how skiing or snowboarding can keep you occupied. Don’t know how to ski or snowboard? Then learn! It’s never too late to learn how and what better place than in the land of the upper class alcoholics? I can’t think of any place better to get loose on wine and then hit the slopes. Don’t want to do anything on the slopes that requires skill of any kind? Then try your hand at riding the bobsleigh run at La Plagne. You’ll fly at up to 56 miles an hour in a self-steering single rider bob sled. Your echoed screams of pure thrill will have you forgetting you were ever single.

Bayonne chocolatiers

Berkeley chocolate club in Bayonne, France… yes, I said a freaking chocolate club…

These are kind of like the musketeers of chocolate makers with some of them using the same machinery for over the past hundred years for some of the most authentic chocolate you are sure to find. And come on… you women will eat a full tub of ice cream in the solace of your own home… rock out with some of the best damn chocolate the world has to offer in one of the most beautiful 1st world countries to visit. Cazenave, Daranatz, & Pariés are the big three for authentic and prize-winning chocolate. Eat your heart out.

Beachside Corsica

Wine optional…

Visit Plage de Saleccia for one of the most isolated beaches in Northern Corsica. Beautiful white sand and turquoise water reside here in the location that was used as a filing location for The Longest Day. Bring a tent and even stay at the beach campsite as you fall asleep to the warm air and the sound of the water washing up on the shore. Make sure you don’t miss out on any travel coupon offers going around. There is no need to throw your money away and the likes of Travelocity have money off European flights and hotels!

Enjoy…

Best Luxury Holiday Destinations in Europe

August 25, 2015 by admin Leave a Comment

If you fancy a holiday where you can indulge in pure luxury, where would your first choice be? A Caribbean Island? The Maldives? These are some of the most popular answers, but you can actually get the same luxury in Europe. I know it’s surprising, but half of the top ten luxury destinations are actually European countries.

Let’s see where you can lap up a lavish holiday this year, without having to travel half way around the world…

Calabria, Italy

This… is Calabria

The first places that spring to mind when people think of Italy are usually Rome, Venice, Naples, and maybe even Milan. A city break to Italy can be great fun, but if you’re looking for a chilled out week in pure luxury, head to Calabria in the south. How do you fancy relaxing on a beautiful beach, surrounded by Mediterranean gardens and a lush pine forest? Heavenly.

Evia, Greece

Part of Evia coast

Evia is one of the bigger Greek islands and is a popular destination for people searching for a luxury European holiday. This island has some gorgeous scenery, with a backdrop of domineering mountains and a clear blue sea. Beautiful surroundings are key to a relaxing and luxurious break, but this island is also packed with a rich history and a number of fantastic activities.

Albufeira, Portugal

Albufeira has amazing beaches and a bustling nightlife

Known as the Gateway to the Algarve, Albufeira is a popular holiday destination located right on the edge of Europe. If your idea of luxury is to indulge in another culture and wander around quaint villages in the warm summer sun, this is the perfect place. The Algarve is a fantastic place to kick back and relax away from the grind of daily life, whether you want to go on a Jeep Safari, snorkel with the marine life or treat yourself to a spa day.

Belek, Turkey

Beautiful Belek

Unlike most European destinations, Belek has not been around for that long. This stunning area on the Turkish Riviera is now a comprehensive luxury resort. Complete with 16km of beautiful golden sands and a golf course boasting spectacular views, Belek is a truly fantastic destination. If you do want to soak up a bit of culture, head on a day trip to Perge or Antalya.

Just don’t forget to sort out that Turkey Visa in advance! The next time you want a break, why not indulge in European luxury instead of wasting half your holiday on the flight?

Splendid German Cruises to Embark On

August 5, 2015 by admin 1 Comment

Germans know their beer and they definitely know their soccer, but the truth is that there is so much more to this great country than most of the people would imagine! German river cruises and tours are the perfect way to discover this country’s top of the top and for those willing to embark on such a cruise there will be a very large number of options to choose from. Read on and find out about some of the best tours involving Germany and its greatest destinations!

Cologne (Creative Commons)

Rhine Cruise: From Amsterdam to Nuremberg

If you want to get a glimpse of not one, but two countries during your river cruise, then this option could work very well for you. Your journey will start in lively, colourful Amsterdam and it will end in historically rich Nuremberg. After having spent one day cruising down the paths of Netherlands’ capital city, your vessel will move along and take you to Cologne (or Köln, if you want the German version). This city found in between the two worlds (that of the French and that of the Germans) is a gorgeous one on its own, but if you add this to how great it has been rebuilt after World War II, you will definitely come to love it as much as one can love a place. From here, you will be taken through some of Germany’s finest as well: Rüdesheim, Wertheim, Würsburg, Bamberg and, finally, Nuremberg, from where you will be transported to your flight back home in London.

To Basel and Back

If you want to see a slightly different type of scenery in your river cruise, then this one could be a great choice. Same as in the case of the previously-mentioned tour, your journey will start in Amsterdam, but it will be changed a bit along the way. From there, you will still get to stop in the great Cologne as well, but you will be led through Koblentz, Rüdesheim, Manheim and the gorgeous, stunning Black Forest. After that, you will be taken to Basel and, from there, the tour guides will make sure you reach the airport and go back home to tell everyone how absolutely amazing your holiday was.

Wilder See, Black Forest (Creative Commons)

Christmas Shopping

If you want to go on a river cruise this winter, do choose this option! Some touring agencies have organized river cruises that stop in some of Germany’s sweetest, most heart-warming and beautiful Christmas markets. You may not be able to buy designer shoes here, but you will definitely discover the charm of a more traditional Germany – one that goes beyond the large buildings and steps back in time to a world where time just went by slower.