Cool Things Collection

Category: Travel

Showcasing cool places to visit, travel tips, stories, inspiration and wanderlust.

  • Top Tips for Improving Your Commute

    Top Tips for Improving Your Commute

    The daily commute to and from work can be tedious, whether you drive, take the train or cycle. It can feel like a lot of wasted time that you’ll never get back! However, it’s possible to turn your daily commute into a more enjoyable, productive task. To give you some inspiration, below you’ll discover some top tips for improving your commute.

     

    Check out some new music

    Regardless of what type of transport you use to get to and from work, what better way to pass the time than with a little music? Music is renowned for its ability to instantly alter the mood. Listening to upbeat music you enjoy can mentally prepare you for the day ahead.

    If you already listen to music on your commute, now’s the time to change your playlist. Discover some new music, give yourself something new to listen to. This tip alone can make your commute so much more enjoyable.

     

    Make your cycle to work more enjoyable

    Cycling to work isn’t just better for the environment – it’s better for you too! Providing a great little workout, cycling to work can help you to stay in shape while also doing your bit for the environment.

    You may even want to invest in a new bicycle. These days, the range of bicycles on offer is impressive. You could even invest in an electric bicycle. This could significantly cut your commuting time and let’s face it – anything electrical is more fun to ride!

     

    Use it as a self-care opportunity

    When was the last time you really focused on taking care of you? Self-care is crucial to eliminating the stress build-up brought on by everyday life. However, most of us tend to get so caught up in our hectic lifestyles, we forget or simply don’t have the time for self-care. However, your commute could be the perfect time to start taking care of you.

    If you’re travelling by train or taxi, reading a self-help book or making a list of the things you’re grateful for can really help to put you into a positive frame of mind. Or, simply use it as a time to read and do something you really enjoy.

     

    Leave a little earlier

    If your commute tends to be hectic, it’s a good idea to start setting off a little earlier. This may sound like a simple tip, but it’s easy to avoid leaving earlier than you have to – especially if you don’t particularly like your job! However, leaving earlier than you need to will make the journey a lot less stressful. You’ll be able to take your time, giving you more time to settle into the office or workplace before starting work.

     

    Overall, there’s no reason why your daily commute can’t be more enjoyable. The above are just some of the things you can do to make it less tedious. Of course, if your commute is particularly long, you could always consider moving closer. Experts recommend moving within 5 miles of your workplace to minimise the stress associated with the daily commute.

  • Everything You Need to Know About Getting the Cheapest Flights

    Everything You Need to Know About Getting the Cheapest Flights

    Travel is one of the finer experiences in life. The world is filled with beautiful destinations, sights, people, and cultures. It’d be a shame to miss any of it, and it’s a shame when the only thing holding you back is your budget. With new tools and lower rates, however, an increasing amount of people can fly and see the world. The only difference is that you need to be more aware of the ways you can save money, like knowing when the best time to book flights is. Opodo recommends booking six weeks before flying for the cheapest airfares, but there are so many ways you can add on to the savings to book the absolutely cheapest flights possible.

    For us Britons, domestic and short-haul flights are incredibly popular. There’s also the option of cheaper airlines like EasyJet. On top of keeping short-haul flights low, you can also lower your costs for domestic travel and for long-haul flights out of Europe. Keep an eye out for the deals when flying to Europe and where flights can take you. For instance, if you wish to go to Asia, two short-haul flights may end up being cheaper than one.

     

    Prices change day-to-day

    The first thing to know about flights is that the prices change on a day-to-day basis. There are two ways that they change. First, the price changes depending on the day you book your flight. Sundays in October tend to be the cheapest dates to fly domestic, Wednesdays in January are the best for short-haul flights, and Tuesdays in September are the best for long-haul flights. As previously stated, Opodo has also concluded that six weeks before you want to travel is the sweet spot for securing the best deal. Technically this means that November travel is best for far away trips, February is the best time to visit a destination in Europe, and early is the best time to fly domestically. Flying too close to Christmas, however, will increase costs again, as this is a popular time amongst travellers.

     

    What if you miss the six week sweet spot?

    Of course, missing the six week prime time is easy, but if you do, you do not have to despair. Instead, you should aim to book two weeks in advance, as waiting until the week before can see prices increase tenfold. Although the myth is to book last minute for the best prices, Opodo’s infographic (see below) has determined that this is, in fact, not the case. Instead, you should book in six weeks before travel (31 to 60 days before travel) or, if you miss that, book two weeks before (8 to 14 days before travel). This is the case for all types of travel, from domestic to long-haul. If the prices start to increase, wait them out.

    Finding the cheapest flights is not easy, but with insider knowledge and key data from companies like Opodo, any traveller can reduce the costs of their trip significantly. This means you can either do more at your destination or you can go on more trips! Beat the confusing flight price conundrum and book at the right time and travel at the right time.

     

    Everything You Need to Know About Getting the Cheapest Flights

     

     

  • Things to do in Stratford-upon-Avon

    Things to do in Stratford-upon-Avon

    Stratford-upon-Avon is a historic town in the heart of England and famous for being the birthplace of William Shakespeare. The town of Stratford-upon-Avon is very picturesque featuring half-timbered Tudor houses, a busy canal and a friendly country-town feel. There are some lovely restaurants, pubs and cafes, great shopping and lots of choice for accommodation. One of my personal favourites is Alveston Manor Hotel which I stayed at recently and mixes old and new beautifully. If you’re staying in Stratford-upon-Avon, we recommend the following things to see and do whilst you are there.

     

    Theatres Galore!

    Stratford Upon Avon is home of the Royal Shakespeare Company which has three theatres located in the town, the1,018-seat Royal Shakespeare Theatre being the most famous of the three and is situated on Waterside, alongside the River Avon.

    The first Shakespeare Memorial theatre complex, pictured in the 1890s
    The first Shakespeare Memorial theatre complex, pictured in the 1890s

    The Swan Theatre shares its front of house space with the Royal Shakespeare Theatre, with audiences enjoying the same foyer, Box Office, bars and restaurant.

    The aptly named The Other place is located on the banks of the River Avon in Southern Lane and houses a 200 seat theatre space.   Visit RSC.org.uk for more information about these three theatres.

    There is also the Attic Theatre which is the No.1 fringe theatre in Stratford upon Avon and home to award-winning ‘Tread the Boards’ Theatre Company.

     

     

    The MAD Museum

    Interactive exhibits of mechanical art and design with buttons, handles, lights and sound effects, great fun for all the family. As soon as you step into this quirky attraction you’ll be greeted with whirling robotics, churning clogs, rolling ball circuits, ingenious design and crazy sounds! The MAD Museum does what it says on the tin, showcasing an absolutely MAD assortment of Kinetic Art, Automata and Steampunk contraptions, gadgets and gismos. Venture into an eccentric world of moving art; The MAD Museum is a wonderful place to watch and interact with an astonishing assortment of both modern and old fashioned, yet highly innovative and elaborate machines!

     

    For the young ones: Dancing lasers, rolling ball machines, roaring mechanical dinosaur heads and whirligigs all with lots of buttons to press! The MAD Museum offers an exciting visit with an educational bias, relevant to curriculum modules such as Design & Technology and Science.

    Visit The Mad Museum website for more information.

     

    Mary Arden’s Farm

    Mary Arden’s Farm, also known as Mary Arden’s House, is the farmhouse of Mary Shakespeare, the mother of William Shakespeare. Today you can experience all the sights, sounds and smells of a working Tudor farm, just as it would have been when Shakespeare was a boy. Watch “Tudors” go about their daily routine, see rare breed animals and explore nature trails. There are daily falconry displays and archery at weekends and in school holidays. There is a playground for children from 2 upwards, a picnic area and a cafe.

    Mary Arden’s Farm is a working farm that keeps pace with the season so there is always something new to see and do.The Farm is open seasonally from Easter to the end of October half-term.

    For more information visit www.shakespeare.org.uk/visit/mary-ardens-farm/

     

    Anne Hathaway’s Cottage & Gardens

    This 15th century charming thatched cottage was the childhood home of Anne Hathaway, Shakespeare’s sweet-heart and wife. Experienced guides explain the stories behind the Shakespeare connection and the history of some well-known English idioms such as “chairman of the board”.

    There are nine acres of gardens and grounds to explore including a lavender maze, a woodland walk, the Shakespeare arboretum and a living willow cabin where you may listen to some of Shakespeare’s sonnets.

    For more information visit www.shakespeare.org.uk/visit/anne-hathaways-cottage/

     

    Stratford-upon-Avon Butterfly Farm

    The UK’s largest tropical butterfly paradise, great for all the family. Opened in 1985, the butterfly farm is housed in a large greenhouse, landscaped with waterfalls, ponds and a wide variety of tropical plants and of course…hundreds of exotic butterflies from all over the world.

    For more information visit www.butterflyfarm.co.uk

     

     

    Shakespeare’s Schoolroom & Guildhall

    Exhibits & tours by costumed interpreters of playwright William Shakespeare’s medieval classroom. Discover where William Shakespeare was educated and inspired to become the world’s greatest playwright. Shakespeare’s Schoolroom & Guildhall gives visitors the chance to discover how and where the world’s greatest playwright, William Shakespeare, spent his school years and first experienced theatre. This period in Shakespeare’s life, about which there has been little previous insight, undoubtedly awakened in him a passion for the craft of which he was to become a master. Shakespeare’s Schoolroom & Guildhall provides a truly immersive experience for all – whether a lifelong Shakespeare enthusiast or new to his enduring legacy. Fun for all the family.

    For more information visit www.shakespearesschoolroom.org

     

    Shakespeare’s Birthplace

    Visit Shakespeare’s Birthplace to walk in Shakespeare’s footsteps and explore the house where he was born and grew up. Hear tales of Shakespeare’s family life, enjoy live theatre on demand and get up close to rare artefacts from the Trust’s world class collections as you discover how the extraordinary William Shakespeare continues to shape our lives today.

    For more information visit www.shakespeare.org.uk/visit/shakespeares-birthplace/

     

     

    Stratford-upon-Avon Canal

    The Stratford-upon-Avon Canal runs from Birmingham’s suburbia to Shakespeare’s Stratford Upon Avon in 25 picturesque miles and passes through enchanting countryside in the very heart of England, cutting through the Forest of Arden and an area rich in Shakespearean history.

    Stratford River Festival 1 by Ann Rob

     

     

     

  • 5 things you must try in Napa Valley

    5 things you must try in Napa Valley

    Napa County in California is known for its hillside vineyards and wineries, grand estates, expansive tasting rooms, quaint towns, and elegant lodgings. While Gourmet food and wine have stolen the show, Napa Valley is one of the most desired travel destinations for its scenic beauty.  There’s no shortage of luxurious places to stay in Napa Valley with many Napa vacation homes to stay in with stunning countryside views, scrumptious food and great wine. There are many places to visit and a lot of things to do in the Napa Valley region. Due to its rich cultural background and its ever-growing fame of producing world-class wine, travellers have often kept Napa Valley trip on the top of the bucket list. Here are five activities which you cannot afford to miss when you visit Napa Valley.

     

    1. Napa Valley Wine train

    The Napa Valley wine train is not just a means of transport at Napa Valley; it’s an experience that all travellers love. The three-hour long ride includes a gourmet lunch or dinner which is generally prepared on-board. The trains big windows lead to fantastic view of wineries in Napa, Yountville, Oakville, Rutherford and St. Helena.

     

    2. Experiencing the wineries

    Just a ride along the wineries will not fulfil your thirst. If you’re a wine lover, you’ll love exploring and sampling the wine at the numerous wineries across Napa Valley. Every winery in Napa Valley carries the legacy and characteristic of its own and every winery has something unique to offer. So before planning a winery visit and booking an appointment, think about the experience you want to have. There are plenty of guides and information online before booking such as this Napa Valley wine guide by winemag.com

     

     

    3. Walk inside the Tuscan Castle

    Castello di Armosa or the Tuscan Castle is a great piece of medieval architecture at Napa Valley region. The castle was made from the inspiration that the builder drew from Italian Medieval architecture. The eight-level castle spread over 171 acres of land with 107 rooms, ramparts, towers, a drawbridge and moat which are all chiselled out of about 8000 tons of stone is definitely worth a visit.

     

    4. Bike tour around Napa Valley

    Fancy riding a bike along the vineyards? Napa Valley bike tours give you a range of experiences to suit your pocket as well as to feed you wandering soul. You can start the ride from St Helena or Napa and take the road to different vineyards. Local guides will accompany you or you can also collect a route map if you don’t want to be accompanied by the guides.

     

    5. Napa river tour

    The smooth flowing Napa River is a soothing experience for the guests and a river tour is just a cherry on the top. Guests can opt for Napa river tour where they will be provided with life-saving jackets and paddles – families especially love the river tours. The historical commentary of the tour guide is the added advantage and the tour is about two hours long.

     

    Have you got your travel plans sorted yet? From adventure to serenity, Napa Valley is surely a major travel goal to accomplish.

     

     

  • Awesome Beaches In The Mediterranean

    Awesome Beaches In The Mediterranean

    Covering 23 countries including Cyprus, Greece, Spain and Turkey, it’s easy to see why millions head to the Mediterranean every year for their summer holidays with the promise of guaranteed sunshine and beautiful beaches. With beaches in mind, below we showcase a handful of our favourite beaches we’ve been to in the Mediterranean.

    Navagio Beach, Zakynthos (Zante), Greece

    Navagio or ‘Shipwreck beach’ is one of the World’s most recognised beaches featured in countless travel guides and magazines with its sapphire blue water contrasting with the white cliffs soaring above the beach. Located on the coast of Zakynthos (Zante) in the Ionian Islands, the beach is only accessible by boat. The area is also a renowned as a base jumping destination for adrenaline junkies as seen in this video.

     

    Navagio Beach
    Navagio Beach – Image Source

     

     

    Elafonissi Beach, Crete, Greece

    With pink and white sand and shallow warm crystal clear waters, the beach on Elafonisi Island is one of the Mediterranean’s best. So it was no surprise when Elafonissi beach was recently voted Trip Advisor’s 2017 travellers’ choice 9th best beach in the World (view Trip Advisor’s top 25 best beaches) – not bad for a little Mediterranean island up against beaches in the Seychelles!

     

    Elafonissi Beach
    Elafonissi Beach – Image Source

    Elafonissi beach is separated from the shore by a lagoon that is no more than a metre deep. You can quite literally walk to ‘Deer Island’ on a nice day and admire the views of the nearby Chrissoskalitissa Monastery.

     

    Fig Tree Bay, Protaras, Cyprus

    Getting its name from the idyllic fig trees which line its coast, this stretch of sand is breathtakingly beautiful. This beach in the list of best beaches in Europe and it has been awarded the prestigious Blue Flag for its outstanding water quality and public facilities.

    Fig Tree Bay
    Fig Tree Bay – Image Source

     

     

    Spiaggia dei Conigli (Rabbit Beach), Lampedusa, Islands of Sicily

    Many believe that Spiaggia dei Conigli or Rabbit Beach is widely regarded as the best beach in the Mediterranean. Contrary to what you may imagine, this little piece of rocky and wild land, shows no trace of rabbits – you’re much more likely to run into loggerhead turtles laying their eggs on the nearby beach. Lampedusa is an island located in the Pelagie group of Islands in Sicily in Italy. Catania is also a popular destination on Sicily’s east coast and easy to get to with Catania Airport Transfers. Catania sits at the foot of Mt. Etna, an active volcano with trails leading up to the summit. The city’s wide central square, Piazza del Duomo, features the whimsical Fontana dell’Elefante statue and richly decorated Catania Cathedral. In the southwest corner of the square, La Pescheria weekday fish market is a rowdy spectacle surrounded by seafood restaurants.

     

    It’s worth noting that you can island hop easily in the Mediterranean using a website such as www.ok-ferry.com where you can book ferry tickets for Sardinia, Corsica, Isle of Elba, Sicily, Giglio Island, Pontine Islands, Tremiti Islands, Aeolian Islands, Ischia and Malta.

    Spiaggia dei Conigli
    Spiaggia dei Conigli – Image Source

     

    Balos Lagoon, Kissamos, Greece

    Balos lagoon on the west coast of Crete is famous for its turquoise and sapphire waters, breathtaking natural scenery and picture perfect pink and white sand is a beach lover’s paradise. The waters are very shallow waters so perfect for all ages, especially little ones.

    Balos Beach
    Balos Beach – Image Source 

     

    Egremni, Lefkada, Greece

    Stretching two and a half kilometres, this one of the longest beaches on the island of Lefkada and rarely gets crowded. Egremni is located on the south-western coast of the island of Lefkada in Greece. The only way to access these stunning sandy shores is by scaling the 150m high cliff via 347 steep steps, but it’s worth it!

    Egremni Beach
    Egremni Beach – Image Source 

     

    Cala Mitjaneta, Menorca, Spain

    With its shallow calm waters, this picturesque cove is unsurprisingly one of the most popular beaches in Menorca. Located on the southern coast close to Cala Galdana, Cala Mitjaneta is famous for its clear snorkeling and swimming conditions.

     

    Cala Mitjana Beach
    Cala Mitjana Beach – Image Source

     

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  • 3 Best American National Parks for Adventure Seekers

    3 Best American National Parks for Adventure Seekers

    North America is one of the most naturally stunning areas of the entire world and this is most evident in the magnificent National Parks that are found around the country. Here you can enjoy incredibly beautiful and untouched natural landscapes, witness rare geological features and even catch a glimpse of majestic creatures in their natural habitat. You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to National Parks as the United States has an impressive 59 protected areas, but here are the three best in America to visit when on an adventure holiday.

    1. Yellowstone

    Yellowstone National Park is not only one of the best parks in the land, but it is also the world’s very first National Park. Spread across a staggering 3,500 square mile area mainly in Wyoming, the park is famous for its unique geographical features.

    yellowstone national park
    Yellowstone national park

    This includes the legendary Old Faithful geyser, but it also features amazing canyons, alpine lakes, thick forests, hot springs and an abundance of wildlife. Due to the sheer size and diversity of Yellowstone, there is an incredible amount to see and do here which makes it a great place for adventure.

     

    2. Yosemite

    Found in California’s breathtaking Sierra Nevada Mountains, Yosemite National Park is known for its dramatic landscapes which were famously captured by iconic photographer Ansel Adams. The park attracts people from all around the world for its epic waterfalls, imposing cliffs, gigantic sequoias and vast lakes.

    Yosemite
    Yosemite

    Unsurprisingly, this also means that there are all kinds of beautiful and rare animals here too. Half Dome, El Capitan, Tunnel View Outlook and Bridalveil Fall are the must-sees, but hiking in the area will provide you with all kinds of amazing views and uncover the park’s many hidden gems. Remember to pack a camera to attempt to recreate a few of Adams’ legendary shots!

     

     

    3. Grand Canyon

    The main attraction of this great park is, obviously, viewing the Grand Canyon, but there is much more to it than this. Located in the vast desert of Arizona, Grand Canyon National Park is a 277-mile-long and 18-mile-wide UNSECO World Heritage Site with fantastic hiking opportunities and historic geological formations. In addition to the varied hiking opportunities, you can raft the Colorado River, camp in the wilderness or even take a helicopter to the bottom of the canyon and view the stunning Havasu Falls.

    Grand Canyon
    Grand Canyon

    North America has many wonderful National Parks to visit, but the above three are the pick of the bunch for adventure-seekers and nature lovers.

  • Top gambling locations in the world for travelers/gamblers

    Top gambling locations in the world for travelers/gamblers

    People travel the world for different reasons but some are interested in how other countries do their gambling. Gambling is a worldwide phenomenon old as time itself, so you can imagine how different countries have developed different affinities for it. If you’re interested in finding the best spots on the globe for gambling then read on.

     

    Las Vegas

    You surely had to see this one coming from a mile away. Las Vegas is one of the must have locations on your bucket list as a gambler and you can’t afford to miss out on all the fun you can have in the legendary city known for its luxurious hotels, top notch gambling facilities and of course top tier entertainment from boxing matches to musical performances.

     

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    Macau

    It’s not just the American soil that can host amazing gambling opportunities. One of the biggest cities for gamblers is actually located in China. Macau is quite a special region in the country, similarly to Hong Kong, and provides numerous gambling opportunities for its inhabitants and visitors alike. You see, many of the top gambling establishments in the world are all crammed up in Macau, or the Macau peninsula to be more exact. There is also Taipa Island which is connected to the main peninsula, and this part also hosts some great casinos.

     

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    Atlantic City

    If you like your gambling a little bit closer to the ocean, you can try out New Jersey’s Atlantic City. This is another top destination for those that want to have fun, travel and gamble at the same time. If it serves for any “street cred” the city has been the inspiration for the Monopoly board game.  The city has 8 casinos put at your disposal, and even thought it might not be exactly the enchanting location it once was, it still has a lot to offer.

     

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    Reno

    Las Vegas isn’t the only location in Nevada that is worth your attention if you’re looking for a good time gambling. Reno is also in the area and it serves as a little safe haven for those that don’t want to be too close to Las Vegas but don’t want to be too far from it either. Reno is a rather small city but it is referred to as The Biggest Little City in the World, which is a testament to its “big” activity within such a small radius. It hosts 21 casinos and one of them is bound to be your new favourite spot. It’s definitely a different experience than Vegas, but at the same time it has something familiar too.

     

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  • Top Three Best Ski Resorts in Europe

    Top Three Best Ski Resorts in Europe

    Skiing season isn’t far away, even though the whole country is still hoping for a few more days of summer. It won’t be long before you will have to book your skiing holidays before all the top spots are taken. We have taken a look at some of Europe’s most amazing skiing resorts, just in case you were in need of a little inspiration. Find out more about our top three below.

     

    Zermatt, Switzerland

    The Zermatt ski resort regularly finds itself included in the lists detailing the most expensive ski resorts. This is partly due to the price of the ski pass. Where other resorts often charge around £225 for a six-day pass, the price for a six-day pass for the 2018 skiing season is a whopping £306. However, due to its altitude, Zermatt is a favourite for early and late season skiing as you can hit the slopes from November to the end of April. This more than makes up for the slightly expensive ski pass, as the snow is a lot less likely to let you down.

    The car-free town offers plenty of charms and the best panoramic views of the Alps as Zermatt is located next to the Matterhorn. The resort has 200km of pistes, all situated above 3,100m. It’s due to this altitude that the resort offers such great skiing conditions all season. At first glance, the resort seems less suitable for beginners and young children. However, in actuality, the area is exceptionally suited for youngsters and beginners. All beginner slopes will have reliable snow, amazing views and they are close to restaurants – ideal to meet up with friends and family.

    The fact Zermatt is car-free might be off-putting to some, with the nearest parking possibility located 5km away at neighbouring town of Tasch. However, there is a regular shuttle-service to help tourists reach their destination. Note that although the town is car-free, there are buses, taxi and bicycles to watch out for whilst you are taking a beautiful tour of the town.

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    Méribel, France

    The Méribel resort is right in the middle of the largest ski area in the world. Factor in the wooden chalets, the irresistible views and its undeniable charm and you will understand why Méribel is such a popular ski destination.  Méribel Valley, home to the local slopes, has 150km of pistes, but the area is also linked to other ski areas. This opens up over 600km of pistes. As the resort covers such a vast area, this area is exceptionally suited for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. The majority of pistes found at Méribel Valley are blue, making it easier for those less confident in their abilities to find their bearings before venturing out to other areas.

    As far as accommodation goes, you will have the choice between a myriad of hotels, self-catered and catered chalets. The catered chalets are exceptionally suited for bigger groups, as many include half-board catering. This way you won’t have to worry about cooking a meal for eight after skiing all day. If you are traveling with young kids, consider a stay at one of the Mark Warner resorts where nanny services are available. You can hit the slopes and rest easy knowing your children are cared for by experienced nannies.

    If you are looking to do a bit of après ski, you’ll have plenty to choose from. There is the famous La Folie Douce which generally attracts a younger crowd. If you’ve left your clubbing days behind, consider a visit to Rond Point who host a daily happy hour from 4pm to 5pm. If you want to change before going out for a drink, there are various options in the middle of town.

     

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    Kitzbühel, Austria

    Home to the yearly Hahnenkamm descend on the Streif, the Kitzbühel ski area is diverse and far-stretched. The Streif is open to the public and is part of the regular ski area when the Hahnenkamm competition isn’t on. The infamous descend is known as “world’s scariest ski run” and professional skiers have had career-ending crashes on the slope. However, when you are not reaching speeds of over 100kmh, you have very high chances of coming down the slope in one piece.

    The Kitzbühel area has around 209km of pistes, made up a mixture of blue, red and black descends. When the snow is good, the skiing here is phenomenal. None of the terrain is above 2,000m, so inadequate snow can be an issue for these low altitudes. Book your visit before the end of February to ensure you’re skiing and snowboarding on the best possible snow.

    The village is extremely picturesque, with cobble-stoned streets and quaint shops. Its charm is very hard to deny when taking an evening stroll. It’s no surprise then that Kitzbühel is often credited with being the most beautiful ski town in Europe.

     

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  • The 3 Coolest British Safari Adventures

    The 3 Coolest British Safari Adventures

    Wildlife and nature have long captured the imagination of Brits. While the country is blessed with some of the best natural parks in Europe that attract visitors from Britain and abroad all year long, more exotic experiences like a safari adventure are also high on the list for many wilderness enthusiasts. Luckily, the UK is also home to some of the best – and here are our top 3 picks.

     

    1. Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park, Stirling

    Did you know that there are elephants in Scotland? Blair Drummond Park is home to the only representatives of the species to be found on Scottish ground – along with more than 30 other species. They are really focused on promoting a conservationist approach and take care of a combination of animals that are both native and exotic. They also make an effort to provide an experience that is both fun and educative for both adults and children and provide a great array of guided tours and activities.

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    Here you will have the chance to mingle with domestic animals in a petting farm that will allow you to get close and cuddle with livestock. And of course you can take a tour of the usual suspects and then some: from lions and tigers to meerkats and penguins the park provides a full experience. Beyond that, you will also have the opportunity to see some more rare animals, like alpacas, kudu, eland and bisons – so if you are looking for something more unusual, this is the park for you.

     

    1. Longleat Safari and Adventure Park, Wiltshire

    Britain’s first And according to many, best safari park IS Longleat. Situated just an hour’s drive from Bath (so perfect for a day trip if you find yourself in the city) stand 900 acres of vast, magnificent gardens that house the Longleat Safari and Adventure Park. You can start off at the African Village to spot giraffes, pygmy goats, zebras and warthogs, and rub shoulders with wallabies and lemurs. Then you need to return to your car to take a safe closer look at the lions and tigers and visit the Wolf Wood, too. You’ll also get a chance to visit the Cheetahs’ Kingdom, where the world’s fastest land animal lives, as well as the Big Game Park for a closer look at the white rhinos and the hippos.

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    Longleat is home to over 1,000 animals, including Europe’s oldest gorilla, Nico, and Anne the Elephant, who was rescued from a circus and now lives gloriously in the park. And if you want to get an even closer look, there are VIP 4×4 tours available – what more could you ask for?

     

    1. Woburn Safari Park, Bedfordshire

    The Woburn Safari Park is part of the greater Woburn Estate, including the Woburn Abbey, Gardens and Deer Park and the Woburn Golf Club – so this is the perfect option if you are travelling in a large group where people tend to prefer different things. It is home to the UK’s first Treetop Adventure: a 2-3 hour experience that will see you swinging along trees, wander through rope bridges and crossings and of course leap off the Tarzan Swing – all high up on tree tops.

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    You can take a road trip to the Savannah to spot the rhinos and the giraffes or on the Northern Plains to see wild horses and bisons, or walk on foot to see colourful Macaws, giant tortoises and yellow mongoose. You can also catch a sea lion demonstration – including one of the Park’s stars, Californian sea lion Monica – or see Noku, one of three African Crested Porcupines down at Desert Springs, napping and enjoying treats from guests.

    So if you are a wildlife enthusiast, there is really no excuse for not giving yourself a treat by taking a trip in one of these – or many other – safari resorts right here in Britain!

  • 5 Coolest Driving Roads In Europe (Infographic)

    5 Coolest Driving Roads In Europe (Infographic)

    Most of us associate the term ‘road trip’ with America and hitting the open road with friends, but did you know that the first ever road trip by automobile took place in Germany! Indeed Europe has some of the coolest driving roads anywhere on the planet. Roads such as Stelvio Pass in Italy, one of the highest mountain passes to drive in Europe and shot to fame in 2008 when it was voted one of the best driving roads by Top Gear and provides stunning views of the Italian and Swiss Alps. Here in the UK we’re lucky enough to have some amazing driving roads ourselves and I did a little feature on 7 of them a few months back which you can read here. I recently showcased the below infographic on my travel blog (travelphant.com) and thought it was pretty cool so I wanted to share on here too – it was created by YourParkingSpace.co.uk and the infographic highlights some of the best driving roads in Europe including the Stelvio Pass which I just mentioned alongside Susten Pass and Route 500 through the Black Forrest in Germany.

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  • 5 ways to avoid a huge phone bill when travelling abroad

    5 ways to avoid a huge phone bill when travelling abroad

    Though we live in a global society, it only takes a short hop across the channel to see what a tangled web mobile providers have woven over the years.

    Roaming charges exist in a seemingly lawless landscape. Put a foot wrong, and you’re paying through the nose for connections you never knew you’d made. This can be as much as a whopping £7.80 per GB according to respected website Money Saving Expert. It’s a long-standing joke that you literally have to watch your mouth whilst abroad, be it on holiday or business. Sadly Brexit complications indicate things are probably going to get worse, and if you’re trying to run a smooth operation these factors become the difference between profit and loss.

    What is the answer? We’d be lying if we said there was a catch-all to this ongoing problem. What we can do is give you some knowledge acquired through many costly errors when traversing this great planet of ours. Get the balancing act right, and the world becomes your oyster again.

     

    Leave It All Behind

    Get around the issue by simply nipping your Data Roaming settings in the bud. Sounds easy, doesn’t it? Just jump aboard that plane and hit the off switch. Unfortunately, when you’re running a business, it doesn’t work like that. So while you may want to stop reading at this point, chances are you also want a roof over your head! The next step from here is pretty straightforward. You leave your feet on the ground but put your head in the clouds. Or, more precisely, cloud…

    Cloud-Based Telephone

    You can have your business streamlined into a single, cost-effective communication system. Everyone on the same page, enjoying the same flexibility. Also, your equipment costs are greatly reduced as everything is managed from the one place. A place that is both reassuringly solid and effortlessly light, without any clutter. Sounds obvious, but every great starting point is.

     

    Wild For Wi-Fi

    Just as a local taxi can take you from place to place at your foreign destination, so Wi-Fi can prove invaluable if you want to save on vital communications as you hop from A to B. Chat to your partners on Skype or use e-mail when you need to be succinct and cut the chatter.

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    Beat Incoming Call Charges

    One of the most disappointing aspects of roaming charges is you can be billed for receiving calls as well as making them. Before you panic, don’t worry. There are possible solutions. For example, by using a virtual switchboard, you can avoid a huge phone bill by ensuring you’re getting the most important calls from the right people. Maximum organisation before the calls come in means minimum disruption when you take them. You can simply sit back and appreciate the scenery as you conduct your business. The best of both worlds.

     

    Toll-Free Numbers

    Another great way of keeping the bank unbroken is to use toll-free international numbers. A side benefit to this is the clients pour in faster when they know they’re not being charged to contact you. The main advantage is you can be anywhere in the world and receive calls without the stress of roaming charges. A range of packages are on offer through Capital Telecom for locations from the slopes of Austria to the shores of New Zealand.

    We hope this guide to navigating the financial fissures of roaming abroad has been useful. Why not tie up all these tips into a neat whole by seeking out an all-in-one remedy to your international ills?

     

     

  • 7 Destinations In The World To See The Best Street Art

    7 Destinations In The World To See The Best Street Art

    Street art tends to be the one type of contemporary art that you don’t actually have to pay to go see. That is, unless you count the travel costs of getting to the place in question, of course! Not that you usually have to travel far – street art is (quite literally) everywhere. From the odd splatter of graffiti to the Banksy murals that go on to sell for millions, it’s always somewhere close by, if you’re willing to look for it.

    But what if you were willing to look a little further afield? Say you had the whole world at your doorstep and could go anywhere you wanted…where would you find the best street art?

    Well, what makes for the ‘best’ street art in the world is a debate we’re not going to be getting into right now. It’s just too complex, divisive and impossible to settle. Instead, we thought we’d highlight what are undoubtedly seven of the best destinations in the world to see outstanding street art – all of which should make it onto your list…if your travel budget is rather on the generous side!

     

    Rishikesh, North India

    First up, this place is often referred to as the yoga capital of the World by those who are into that sort of thing. Aside from this, it’s also renowned for playing host to some of the most incredible street art on Earth. And it’s not just confined to streets, either – you’ll find it all over the place. Bridges, buildings, broken tin roofs – all part of a street art movement that’s captured the world’s imagination. Time your visit right and you could also check out the annual Rishikesh Street Art Festival. ‬‬

     

    Rishikesh Street Art Festival

     

    Toronto, Canada

    A city with a reputation for being as culturally diverse as Toronto was always going to have a spectacular street art scene. And it has – particularly if you head over to Graffiti Alley – aka Rush Lane. The kilometre-long modern street art masterpiece is once again painted over to produce a blank canvas every year, pulling in artists from all over the world who want to make their mark on the city. Albeit, a temporary one.

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    Flickr

    Granada, Spain

    An artist known locally as El Niño de las Pinturas – often dubbed the ‘Spanish Banksy’ – has done a great job transforming the Realjo quarter of Granada into something of a living, breathing masterpiece. Less spray scribbles, more thought-provoking watercolour murals the likes of which pull in art lovers from all over Spain and beyond. Things become even more mind-blowing at night, as it’s not until the shops close and pull down their shutters that you get to see the incredible artwork that’s hidden during the day.

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    Image source

    Lisbon, Portugal

    Local authorities in Lisbon have done what basically any major city should do these days – they’ve designated specific areas of the city where street art is both permitted and encouraged. Which is great, because it means that if you’re out and about at the right time, you can watch local artists at all levels turning graffiti paint markers into modern masterpieces. Which they do with gusto – most of the areas where street art is permitted are covered in stunning artwork, right down to the last available inch!

    Street art at Picoas in the streets of Lisbon made by the graffiti artists Os Gemeos, Portugal, Europe
    Street art at Picoas in the streets of Lisbon made by the graffiti artists Os Gemeos, Portugal, Europe

     

    Bristol, UK

    If you’re quite happy to tolerate an ever-expanding crowd of painfully-cool hipsters and a fair few squatters, Stokes Croft is where to head in Bristol. Banksy might be from Bristol and there’s always the chance of stumbling over his work, but it’s the local artists that really steal the show as you wander the once-foreboding alleyways at all hours of day and night.

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    Hongdae — Seoul, South Korea

    Slightly further afield, there’s a vibrant student population about the place here and Hongdae is known across the country as the place to head for epic nights on the town. Creative art students have decided to make the area surrounding the university their own, getting busy with walls, shutters and freestanding concrete blocks in a constant state of change.

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    Melaka, Malaysia

    Last up, if you happen to be over in East for a while, Melaka has recently taken the torch from Penang as the kind of place any street art fan simply has to see. Drab, deteriorating properties and once-thriving riverside areas blasted with colourful murals and artwork, which perfectly represent how the place and its people have changed over the generations.

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  • Mont Saint Michel Pictures

    Mont Saint Michel Pictures

    Showcasing cool pictures of Mont Saint-Michel which represents a must-see during any visit to the north of France. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mont Saint-Michel presents visitors with an entirely different experience in accordance with the tides. The Abbey Church itself is the highlight of the visit, boasting views that make the steep 200-metre path and 350 steps more than worthwhile.

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  • Sponsored Video. Norwegian Rewards: The Loyalty Program for Everybody

    Sponsored Video. Norwegian Rewards: The Loyalty Program for Everybody

    While there may be hundreds of frequent flyer rewards programs around these days, it’s rare to come across one that actually has any real value. Particularly, if you don’t happen to spend pretty much every waking minute of your life flying all over the world. Even if you do, it’s usually true to say the rewards tend to be somewhat on the remedial side and not exactly inspiring.

    However, there is one notable exception to the rule which is available courtesy of Norwegian Air. The programme, known as Norwegian Rewards, has been earning rave reviews from business and leisure travellers alike. Which is hardly surprising, given that this is one of the first reward systems of its kind to be made available by any leading low-cost airline.

     

    How Norwegian Rewards Works

    The way the system works is pretty much the same as you’d expect from a standard airline loyalty program. The more you fly, sleep and drive, the more you can expect in return.

    The system sees members gradually stacking up CashPoints, which are awarded not only when flying with the airline, but also when hiring cars or booking hotel rooms through any of the airline’s primary partners. One of which being Hotels.com, which is one of the most popular and powerful hotel booking platforms currently in operation. Points can also be earned using Lounge Pass, which offers access to luxurious lounges and exclusive areas in airports all over the world.

    One of the best things about Norwegian Rewards is the way in which you do not have to continue saving relentlessly for years on end, before being able to use the CashPoints you’ve earned. Instead, they can be used at any time in the same way as real cash, in order to pay for any of the services offered by Norwegian Air, either in part or in full. From flight bookings to extra baggage to fast track airport services to additional insurance and so on, there are very few restrictions in terms of how, where and when they can be spent.

    In addition, all members of Norwegian Rewards receive a 2% CashPoints bonus with every sixth flight booked. Additional rewards for members include things like free additional baggage allowance, free seat reservations and so much more besides.

     

     

    Who Can Join?

    Perhaps best of all, Norwegian Rewards is open to absolutely anyone and is in no way restricted to frequent flyers or business customers. Norwegian is fast establishing a name for itself as a low-cost airline that takes quality and service provision to a higher level, while still delivering unrivalled value for money.

    The whole idea is geared towards ensuring that even those who travel on a somewhat infrequent basis using low-cost airlines are not excluded from the kinds of perks and privileges previously exclusive to more typical frequent-flyer rewards programs.

    Norwegian is constantly sweetening the deal with further discounts, upgrades and special offers exclusive to members only – go to http://bit.ly/2o3FVvX

    today for the full lowdown of exactly what’s on offer right now.

    This post has been sponsored by Norwegian Reward.

     

  • Apps that make the inconvenient, convenient

    Apps that make the inconvenient, convenient

    Nowadays, the internet is everyone’s go-to for everything, whether it’s catching up on the latest news, or grabbing that coat you’ve been after for months while it’s still in the sale, we’re using the internet more now than ever before and that’s not something that’s likely to change. With handheld convenience comes a lack of patience which means we are increasingly intolerant of things that get in the way of us doing whatever it is we really want to do. So, with these great apps, you’ll save yourself a lot of time which means there’s more time to spend doing things you actually want to do.

    Uber – This app has revolutionised the way people use taxis. It has made hailing a cab much easier and much cheaper. No one wants to have to stand and wait around for public transport, it’s just inconvenient. However, Uber takes the inconvenience out of public transport, you book your taxi on your phone, you get up-to-date information on your car’s position and estimated arrival time (usually down to the minute) which means you don’t need to take any time out of your day to wait around. In the UK, Uber is your only option for this kind of app, but there are calls for Lyft (an Uber rival in the US) to also be introduced.

    pexels-photoBanking Apps – These are fast becoming the most popular way for customers to interact with their bank. Forget the days of actually having to visit the bank to pay a bill or transfer money, now it can all be done through an app which is super convenient and means you can spend more time doing what’s important.

    hungryhouse – If you’ve left work late and have to make a choice between making dinner or going to the gym, the hungryhouse app could be your best friend, allowing you the time to do both. There’s no need to ruin the diet either, with plenty of organic and vegetarian dishes available as well as a wide range of salads and soups.

    Mealime – Food shopping is something you can’t avoid completely but as well as individual supermarket apps that’ll deliver your groceries to the door, this app should also save you time and money. No more trolley rage, queuing or impulse buying, simply input the foods that you want to eat and this app will provide you with thirty minute recipes which feature your chosen foods and grocery lists for the ingredients, so you can plan out your meals for a week but only purchase exactly what you need.

    Headspace – A definite downside of a busy life can be the levels of stress it creates. This app is intended to increase mindfulness, focus and positivity by teaching you to practice meditation in ten minutes a day. It even tracks your progress so that you can see yourself improve.

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    Office Yoga- Fitness at Work – Don’t have time to get across town to that yoga class? Practise yoga from the comfort of your desk and in doing so, relieve the pains and strains caused by sitting at it and make exercise extra convenient.

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    Cozi Family Organiser – A must for the digital family. No more notes stuck to the fridge, no more missed swimming lessons. This app collates all your family’s activities and turns them into a colour coded digital calendar. It even sends weekly emails to your family members with a list of the week’s events.

    Cozi Family Organiser

     

     

  • Christmas in Stratford Upon Avon

    Christmas in Stratford Upon Avon

    This Christmas we stayed in Stratford-Upon-Avon, the birthplace of William Shakespeare for a weekend visiting family and friends. This lovely medieval market town sits on the banks of the River Avon and at Christmas time, the town is beautifully lit up with festive lights. The upmarket town is full of boutique shops, restaurants, cafes and pubs (including the stunning Garrick Inn dating back to 1400’s).

    We stayed at the lovely Mercure Stratford upon Avon Shakespeare Hotel which is a beautiful 4 star hotel situated in the heart of the historic town. The hotel was the perfect location right in the centre of town with private secure car parking at rear, a nice breakfast selection and good sized comfortable rooms. My wife loved The White Company products in the bathroom, nice touch! Would recommend this hotel to anyone visiting Stratford Upon Avon, whether at Christmas or any other time of the year.

    Here just a few of the photographs I took of the hotel and the Christmas lights in the town.

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  • 5 Best Family Friendly Beaches In Devon

    5 Best Family Friendly Beaches In Devon

    We featured 25 best beaches in the UK earlier in 2016 and this time we’re focussing on the best Devon has to offer for a family beach holiday. Devon is blessed with some of the most stunning coastline in the UK, not to mention home to some of the best beaches in Europe. It’s a tricky act to narrow things down to a single winner, but drawing up a shortlist of prime contenders is as least a little easier.

    So if it’s Devon that’s calling you and you’d like to know which beaches to grace with the family’s presence, here’s a quick rundown of five of the best family friendly beaches in Devon:

     

    Woolacombe Beach

    Not only is Woolacombe Beach consistently voted the best beach in the UK, it is also one of the five best beaches in Europe as voted by Trip Advisor users. But these kind of accolades really aren’t surprising, just as soon as you visit it yourself. For families, it’s the perfect setting. Expansive, tranquil and flaked on all sides by extraordinary natural beauty, it is nothing short of three miles of paradise right there on your doorstep. And when it comes to perfect family holidays in this neck of the woods of North Devon, none serve up family holiday fun quite like Woolacombe Bay Holiday Parks.

    Golden Coast Holiday Park, Woolacombe, Devon

    With four (yes Four!) award winning holidays park situated on the doorstep of the best beach in the UK, it’s easy to see why these holiday parks in Devon are so popular…especially with the facilities they have on offer as this video shows…

     

    Tunnels Beaches, Ilfracombe

    Next up, it’s the fact that you have to travel through a series of impressive tunnels built in the 1820s to get to the beach itself that makes it such a joy to visit. Yes, the aptly-names ‘Tunnels Beach’ has been delighting visitors to Ilfracombe for generations, not least for its simply staggering contingency of aquatic life. If you like the idea of spending hour after hour marvelling at weird and wonderful creatures, the rock pool at Tunnels Beach was voted one of the top three in the whole of the British Isles.

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    Blackpool Sands

    Always a great place to head to confuse the folks back home, Blackpool Sands is actually perched on the Dartmouth coast right here in Devon. Not only is the ‘Blackpool’ part of its moniker a little misleading, but the promised ‘Sands’ are actually pretty little pebbles. Blackpool Sands is famed across Devon and beyond for its supremely crystal-clear seas, along with a floating pontoon in the summer to keep the kids entertained. And of course, there’s nowhere better to head for a taste of Devon’s famous seafood at its finest!

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    Mill Bay

    Moving on, Salcombe is a truly gorgeous place that’s well worth visiting in its own right. But in terms of family beaches, Mill Bay in South Devon ticks all the right boxes. Along with a bunch of rock pools that are simply crying out to be explored, there’s the supremely safe sea for splashing around in and plenty of hidden coves to explore.

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    Lannacombe Beach

    Last but not least, another one on the south coast of Devon here. When it comes to soaking up the delights of Devon in the most unspoiled and rugged manner possible, Lannacombe Beach certainly doesn’t disappoint. It may be rather on the compact side, but it benefits from vastly smaller crowds throughout the warmer months of the year and is a great place to go if you fancy a quiet escape. The surrounding scenery is simply superb – just be sure to check out the tide times before you go.

     

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  • Review: waterproof iPhone 6s case from ProShotCase

    Review: waterproof iPhone 6s case from ProShotCase

    I’ve got an iPhone 6s which as we all know can take great photos and shoot great video, but I wanted something that would let me do both of these underwater. After tons of research, I made my decision and bought an underwater case from proshotcase.com – ProShot is an ultra waterproof, durable, and shockproof housing case for the iPhone 6/6s. Mine came with a wide angle lens, a fish eye lens and a floating hand grip and easily fit in my backpack and took it on our family holiday to Sardinia…this is my review.

    First off it was delivered fast and well packaged with easy to follow instructions….very good start! The case also came with 2 types of lid for the case – a deep dive lid which is waterproof down to 100 ft (but you can’t use touch screen) and a touch screen lid which is waterproof down to 6 ft (you can use touch screen). Our holiday to Sardinia was mainly spent in the swimming pool and so I only used the touch screen lid which worked brilliantly.

    Below is is one of my favourite photos I took from this holiday of our oldest son Dylan jumping into the swimming pool.

    I loved the ProShotCase – at first I was a little tentative putting an expensive phone into a waterproof case and then going under water so I tested to see if any water had entered the case after using it for 10 seconds. Nothing…done dry. Then I did it for 30 seconds and 1 minute, each time no water inside the case…ProShotCase had won my trust. Loved it.

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    Another cool feature of ProShot is that it can be easily mounted on almost any surface with a wide range of accessories and is compatible with all GoPro® mounts.

    ProShotCase in the next fortnight are releasing a waterproof case for the new iPhone 7.

    I wouldn’t hesitate in recommending this case to anyone if looking for an underwater case for an iPhone.

    Available to buy from www.proshotcase.com

  • Why The Greek Islands Should Be On Your Bucket List

    Why The Greek Islands Should Be On Your Bucket List

    I love Greece. The only Island I have visited is Zante and that was about 20 years ago with an ex-girlfriend which I loved but I’ve always been fascinated by the unspoilt Hellenic Cyclades islands of Sifnos, Milos, Naxos, Paros and Anti Paros. The scenery alone from the photography I’ve enjoyed browsing through in travel books and magazines is worth making them on to any bucket list. A recent survey among travellers around the world points out I’m not alone in my lack of knowledge of these particular Greek islands and so I did a little research. This is my brief guide to these Hellenic islands.

     

    Location

    The Cyclades comprise about 220 islands, the major ones being Amorgos, Anafi, Andros, Antiparos, Delos, Eschati, Ios, Kea, Kimolos, Kythnos, Milos, Mykonos, Naxos, Paros, Folegandros, Serifos, Sifnos, Sikinos, Syros, Tinos, and Thira or Santoríni. The name “Cyclades” refers to the islands forming a circle (“circular islands”) around the sacred island of Delos. Most of the smaller islands are uninhabited. Many travellers believe that Mediterranean Sea are the waters surrounding all the islands, which is probably due to its proximity. Even though every Greek island has great beaches, it’s good to bear in mind that Ionian Sea and Aegean Sea are also there. In this latter one we can find some of the most touristic islands like Mykonos, Santorini and Ios.

     

    Cuisine 

    Greek food is amazing, simple as that. The rivalry between Greek and Italian cuisine is well know all over the World, mainly due to the fact that because so much of Italian food is based on Greek ideas. Greek cuisine has brought the world some of the most delicious dishes including lasagne, wine, olive oil, pizza and of course…the doughnut! If your a cheese lover then the Greek islands are one of the best places in the World for cheese. There is feta cheese, Mizithra or Galotiri which are all present in most greek sauces, pastas and salads. There are also cooking classes available across the islands so you can combine your holiday in Greece with learning to cook authentic delicious Greek food.

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    Picturesque

    Simple and conservative, but beautiful and unique. All travellers recognise the aesthetics of the local architecture, especially windmills, whitewashed houses and blue domed churches. Their love is so devoted that lots of couples decide to celebrate their weddings in one of these islands (Sifnos is one of the most popular) and invite all their loves ones to enjoy luxury holidays in Greece. I’m hoping one day I’ll get the chance with my wedding photography business to shoot a destination wedding in one of the Greek islands, hopefully Sifnos – what a romantic place to get married!

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  • Battle of the portable foldable drones. DJI Mavic Pro winning ‘on paper’ vs GoPro Karma

    Battle of the portable foldable drones. DJI Mavic Pro winning ‘on paper’ vs GoPro Karma

    Last week we jumped around the office in excitement about the new GoPro Karma portable drone – that was until the makers of the World’s best selling drone company DJI released details of their portable foldable drone version, Mavic Pro one week later.

    The big selling point for both the Mavic and Karma is size. Both utilise a brilliant foldable design to be more portable when you aren’t flying – for travel/adventurers, it’s their prays answered. The Mavic is lighter and folds up more compact. It can fit inside of a purse or holster on your belt, whereas the Karma fits comfortably inside of a backpack. You could fit 2 or 3 Mavics inside of the backpack that holds the Karma. That doesn’t mean the Karma is too big. It’s still much smaller and lighter than traditional drones.

    So how do the two foldable drones stack up against each other on paper based on specs? From what we’ve read and the videos we’ve watched, here’s which drone we think wins on specs alone – these opinions are our own and based on the specs we’ve seen…until we can get our hands on them.

    Speed

    DJI Mavic Pro Wins
    The DJI Mavic Pro has a faster top speed of 40 mph versus GoPro Karma at 35 mph.

     

    Battery Life

    DJI Mavic Pro Wins
    The DJI Mavic Pro has a longer battery life at 27 minutes versus GoPro Karma at 20 minutes. It can even be outfitted with any phone or tablet you want. The Mavic Pro is also small enough to fit uncomfortably into a pair of jean pockets. The Karma, on the other hand, requires a backpack (or similarly-sized vessel) to be transported from place to place.

    Not only does Mavic have a longer flight time, but it can also be operated up to 4.3 miles away, which gives it a huge advantage over the Karma.

     

    Controller

    DJI Mavic Pro Wins
    The GoPro Karma ships with a controller using a built-in display and packs up nicely into the little backpack that comes with the Karma. The Mavic Pro has an optional controller, meaning you can instead operate the device from your phone. The controller that DJI sells separately can be paired with any phone if you want to see preview video while you’re flying.

     

    Avoidance System

    DJI Mavic Pro Wins
    DJI Mavic Pro comes with five-camera obstacle avoidance system similar to the one in the Phantom 4. The GoPro Karma doesn’t have any obstacle avoidance features.

     

    Follow Me 

    DJI Mavic Pro Wins
    DJI Mavic Pro also comes with some cool follow modes – the drone can lead you in front, follow you at a profile and do a cool trick where it files circles around you as you move. The smart flying capabilities are enabled by the cameras and sensors on the drone. It’s still unclear whether the GoPro Karma will offer a follow me function.

     

    Camera

    GoPro Karma Wins Only Just

    GoPro is known for making great cameras, but the Mavic manages to get the slight edge here too. The best configuration of the Karma uses the new Hero5 Black camera, which can shoot 4K video at 30 fps. The Mavic has a built-in camera that can shoot Cinema 4K at 24 fps. Cinema 4K has even higher resolution than standard 4K. Of course, the Mavic can do regular 4K at 30 fps too. The higher resolution doesn’t automatically give the Mavic a win, but previous DJI drones have produced excellent results.

    The DJI Mavic Pro ships with a camera that shoots 4K video, but it’s bolted to the drone, so you can’t exactly use it while you’re not flying the drone around.
    The GoPro Karma was built to combat these type of situations. It can be outfitted with the new GoPro Hero 5 Black, the Hero 5 Session, Hero 4, and Hero 3 cameras. If you already own one of theses cameras, the Karma is a great way to get them airborne, but if you still need to buy one, it could just make the cost of your aerial rig a lot more expensive.

     

    Handheld Stabiliser

    GoPro Karma Wins
    Another cool feature of the GoPro Karma is its removable stabiliser that can be used as a handheld gimbal for shooting nice clean shots on or off the drone. When it comes to versatility of video recording, the GoPro Karma easily beats DJI.

     

    Price

    It’s close between the two drones – DJI Mavic Pro edges it slightly for us 

    The DJI Mavic Pro sells for $750 (approx £580) without the remote control (which means you’d have to use your phone or tablet to control it)
    $1,000 (approx £770) with the controller.

    The GoPro Karma sells for a flat price of $800 (approx £620) and comes with a controller that uses a built-in display.
    The total cost depends on what camera you strap to it.
    $1000 (approx £770) with a GoPro Hero 5 Session
    $1100 (approx £850) with a GoPro Hero 5 Black.

    When it comes to drones and budgets, there’s not a one-size-fits-all situation, so the perfect foldable drone will be a matter of preference. Without spending too much time flying either drone, though, it looks like the DJI Mavic has a slight edge in terms of performance and value. The GoPro Karma looks like the better value for money option for shooters, with a removable camera and gimbal that can be used for other application.

     

    Comparison Table

     

    Here’s a useful comparison table comparing the specs between the DJI Mavic Pro and GoPro Karma drones.

    SPEC GOPRO KARMA DJI MAVIC PRO
    Built-in Camera ✕ ✓
    Handheld Gimbal Included ✓ ✕
    Dual IMU & Compass ✕ ✓
    Object Tracking ✕ ✓
    Obstacle Sensing System ✕ ✓
    Vision Positioning System ✕ ✓
    Precision Landing ✕ ✓
    Dual Operator ✓ GoPro Passenger™ App ✕
    Case / Backpack ✓ Optional Extra
    Monitor / Screen included ✓ (Touchscreen) ✕ (LED info display only)
    Smart Phone as Monitor ✕ ✓
    Gimbal 3 Axis 3 Axis
    Camera Sensor 1/2.3” (CMOS) 1/2.3” (CMOS)
    Camera Lens FOV 94° 17.2mm f/2.8 FOV 78.8° 28 mm f/2.2
    Resolution : UHD 4K up to 30p / 2.7k 60p 4K / 2.7k up to 30p + C4K 24p
    Resolution : FHD 1080 up to 120p 1080 up to 96p
    Resolution : HD 720 up to 240p 720 up to 120p
    LOG Profile ProTune™ D-Log / D-Cinelike
    Bitrate 60 Mb/s 60 Mb/s
    Stills 12MP RAW + WDR 12MP DNG RAW + HDR
    Burst shooting 3/5/10/30 fps 3/5/7 fps
    Timelapse 0.5s–60s 10s–60s (assumed)
    Max. Speed 35 mph (15.6 m/s) 40 mph (17.8 m/s)
    Max. Distance 1000m / 1km 13000m / 13km
    Max. Altitude 4500m / 4.5km 5000m / 5km
    Max. Wind Resistance 22mph (9.8 m/s) 24mph (10.7 m/s)
    Satellite Positioning GPS GPS + GLONASS
    Transmission Wi-Fi Wi-Fi / OcuSync
    Transmission Range 1000m / 1km (assumed) Up to 7000m / 7km
    Operating Frequency 2.4GHz 2.4 GHz to 2.483 GHz
    Downlink Stream 720p HD Up to 1080p FHD
    Battery 14.8v / 5100mAH 11.4v / 3830 mAh
    Flight Time (apx.) 20 mins 27 mins
    Operating Temp. ? 32° to 104° F (0° to 40° C)
    Weight 1006g 734g
    Dimensions (open) in mm L: 303 / W: 411 / H: 117 ?
    Dimensions (folded) in mm L: 365 / W: 224 / H: 90 L: 198 / W: 83 / H: 81
    Retail Price : US $1099.99 inc. Hero 5 -or- $799.991 $999.00
    Retail Price : UK £999.99 inc. Hero 5 -or- £719.991 £999.00
    Retail Price : EU €1199.99(?) inc. Hero 5 -or- €869.991 €1199.00
    Battery Price $99.99 / £89.99 / €109.00 $89.00 / £85.00 / €99.00
    Pre-order ✕ Not yet ✓ 27th Sept 2016
    Shipping October 23rd 2016 October 15th 2016

    Head to Head Test Flight

    Both companies pack a lot of features into the respective drones, the Mavic definitely has more features built-in and the automation is great for regular users out for fun. Karma may have the edge for filmmakers if the dual operator function works well.

    We wait to see someone physically get these two drones and do some true head-to-head test flights in order to determine which is the best. Ahead of that head-to-head battle, it looks like the DJI Mavic Pro has the slight edge over the GoPro Karma, at least on paper.

  • Want To Travel And Get Paid For It?

    Want To Travel And Get Paid For It?

    As I’m sure you’ll agree, there’s no kind of experience quite like travelling…we even have our own travel blog called Travelphant where we showcase inspiring worldwide travel articles and guides aimed at holiday and backpacking travellers. Waking up in a foreign country, with no idea of the breath-taking sights you’re going to see and the fascinating cultural nuances you’re going to experience. The only issue with travelling is that it’s so darn expensive! Like many, you may have dreamt of having a job that literally pays you to travel. If this is the case, here are a few occupations you may want to chase.

     

    Work as a teacher

    Teaching English in a foreign country is one of the most popular routes for anyone looking to see the world and get paid for it. If you can prove you’re a competent English speaker, and have a basic command of the native language of (insert country) then you can get paid to live in some of the most exotic and fascinating places on earth. The pay is fairly decent, and the posts usually come with the accommodation and flights provided. Of course, you’ll be obliged to spend a lot of your day teaching, but you’ll also have plenty of time to look around and breathe in the local culture. Contracts range from a couple of months to over a year, so you’ll have a lot of flexibility as well. The very best jobs require a degree, but a TEFL qualification will still open a lot of doors.

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    Work as a ski instructor

    If you’re that kind of traveller who needs to have some exhilarating sport to make the trip worth it, then you may want to consider getting a job as a ski instructor. I’ve spoken to countless people who spend a year or two working a job they hate, just so they can save up for a great skiing tour which hits several different resorts. If you’ve got that much passion and experience for the sport, then why not cut out the job you hate and find one that you’ll actually look forward to? Ski resorts have a pretty significant employee turnover, and you’ll find lots of ski instructor courses in Canada, France, and anywhere else with a big ski culture. After finishing your qualification, you’ll be ready to start applying for jobs. Being a ski instructor not only pays well, but allows you to immerse yourself in the awesome ski resort culture as part of your day to day life!

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    Work on a cruise ship

    Getting a job as part of a cruise ship crew is another popular choice for avid travellers. Luxury cruise liners have all the jobs you’d expect to find on a hotel, and then all the extras. From cooks and cleaners to engineers and qualified sailors to musicians and entertainers, there’s no end to the possible gigs you can find on a cruise ship. Aside from that, you’ll be able to spend your shore leave exploring the port towns of all kinds of fascinating countries. That is, provided your work schedule allows for it! If you have any experience in customer service or hospitality, then you’re already in a pretty good position to start applying for jobs.

     

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  • Why Vegas is a great holiday destination for adults

    Why Vegas is a great holiday destination for adults

    Vegas has a reputation for being a bit seedy. But what many non-Americans don’t realise is that in recent years it has cleaned up its act. Yes, it has the problems of any major tourist city, but it is a fantastic place for a grown-up holiday. You can pick exciting adventures, gamble the night away or just relax in a spa. It’s entirely up to you. Read on to find out more.

     

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    Entertainment

    Sin City is the perfect spot for grown up style their hair down and have a ball! You can try your hand at the games of chance 24/7 in the casinos that line the Strip. There is virtually every type of game available here such as blackjack, poker, and roulette. There are also plenty of slot machines. You’ll notice that the waitress come round and bring you free drinks, all you need to do it tip them to keep them coming back.

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    If gambling isn’t your style, then take in one of the fabulous Cirques du Soleil shows instead. Many of them are performed in specially kitted out theatres so that you feel like you are in with the action. The acrobats are amazing and you can get discounted tickets from operators, so look out for a good bargain online. Read more about the current Vegas shows that are running at https://www.cirquedusoleil.com/las-vegas.

    If acrobatics isn’t your thing how about one of the legendary magic performances that run in Vegas. David Copperfield and Criss Angel are both known to perform there regularly.

    Then there are the music performances that are on offer too. Through the years Vegas has played host to Country and Western stars Tim Mcgraw & Faith Hill, as well as Celine Dion and Britney Spears. So it’s worth checking to see who is playing while you’re in town.

    If you are feeling a bit spent out after all those activities a great, free activity is to do a walking tour of all the major hotels on the strip. Check out the replica canals of Venice at The Venetian, or soak up the atmosphere of ancient Rome in Caesar’s Palace.

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    Get Married

    Some people choose Vegas specifically because of how easy it is to get married there. Others just realise a burning desire to tie the knot once they have had a few cocktails! If your trip to Vegas includes getting hitched, remember that you will need the correct documentation before you get to the chapel. A marriage license can be obtained from the courthouse, (just get in a cab as all the drivers know where it is). To get this, you will need ID and the fees. Surprisingly you don’t need your ESTA for this but you will need it to get into the country in the first place. So if you’re planning a Vegas trip go to https://www.official-esta.com/our-services for more information.

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    Shopping

    There is plenty of shopping available in the malls that are attached to the major hotels. If you’re looking for a quick snack or cold drink, then there are a few Walgreens along the strip where you can get a slushy. You must check out the American only Sephora for high-end makeup brands too. They stock Kat Von D’s products, as well as innovative items that are just hitting the market. If you feel the need, then you can also grab a tacky memento of your stay in one of the many gifts shops dotted about.

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    Food and Drink

    There’s no shortage of food and drink is Vegas for the tourist. Sliders, ribs, and all you can eat buffets are common on this trip. The hotel breakfast buffets are a great money saving option as there’s such a huge selection of delicious items available including pancakes, cookies, and meats which will fill you up all the way until dinner time. Also in some casinos, if you join their player’s club, you get vouchers for a substantial discount off the evening buffet, which can save you a lot of money! 

    There’s also a lot of Asian theme restaurants in Vegas, especially in the Wynn and Encore hotels. These luxury buildings are very popular with Asian guests and the delicious foods reflect this. Get some more information on what to expect at http://www.wynnlasvegas.com/Dining/CasualDining/Wazuzu.

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    In terms of beverages, the main custom in Vegas seems to be to buy large plastic drinks containers filled with cocktails like margaritas. You are allowed to drink these while walking up and down the strip, but remember you do have to be over 21 in the US to drink!

     

  • Family Weekend Break – Isles Of Scilly

    Family Weekend Break – Isles Of Scilly

    We stayed 3 nights on the beautiful island of St Martins (Isles of Scilly) in August – me, my wife and our two boys and it was really special. Below I’ll give you reasons why you’ll probably fall in love with the Isles of Scilly too, but first you might be wondering where they are. The Isles of Scilly is an archipelago of 5 inhabited islands: St. Mary’s, Tresco, St. Martin’s, Bryher and St Agnes, and some 150 islands and rocks 28 miles off the southwestern tip of Cornwall, South West England. You can either fly (highly recommend!) or sail (not so good if you’re prone to sea sickness !) to the Isles of Scilly from Penzance Harbour, Land’s End, Newquay or Exeter Airports with Isles of Scilly Travel.

    Here’s 10 reasons why we loved the Isles Of Scilly for a relaxing family holiday…

    Getting there, an adventure in itself!

    As i’ve already mentioned, you can either fly or sail to the Isles of Scilly and we opted for the 20 minute flight..and wow what a flight, we all loved it! The usual larger plane was unavailable so we boarded a smaller 7 seater plane and sat right behind the pilot. You get stunning views of the Cornish coastline flying at around 1,000 feet and then the Isles of Scilly come into view in the distance.  Such a great start to your time on these amazing islands.

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    Once you’ve landed on the island of St Mary’s, if you’re staying on one of the other 4 islands like we were you’ll need to hop on a boat which run regularly in between islands and another great experience with amazing views and wildlife on offer.

     

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    Beaches

    The beaches on the island of St Martins are truly stunning and easily amongst the best beaches in the UK if you are after uncrowded safe beaches with beautiful soft white sand and turquoise clear waters. I’m lucky enough to have experienced many amazing beaches around the World including Hawaii and Yucatan Peninsula…and the beaches on St Martins are honestly right up there with the best of them…if you’re lucky enough to get hot sunny weather like we had.

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    The sand on the beaches on St Martins even sparkle!

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    The white sand beaches and rocks are the perfect playground for kids…whilst the adults can watch on, relax and enjoy.

     

     

     

    Stunning Sunsets

    I’ve been lucky enough to travel to locations famed for breathtaking sunsets but just like the beaches, the sunsets on the Isles of Scilly are right up there with the best of them.

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    Scenery & Remoteness

    You’ll get that the feeling you’re a world away from the UK, when if fact you’re just 28 miles off the southwestern tip of England. Being a photographer, I loved the wild and varied landscapes, the white sand beaches and the clear turquoise waters of the the Scillies. Around every corner is a picture postcard.

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    Fresh Local Food

    Fresh local produce is available on all the islands with lobsters and crab caught daily in Scillonian waters, island-grown food and veg, island-reared beef and duck. It really doesn’t get any fresher here.

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    Island Hopping

    There’s something really special about hopping from island to island on a boat. The captain told us to watch out for dolphins but we didn’t see any this time, but we saw plenty of fish.

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    Wild Walks

    Our boys have never walked so much during our 3 days on the Isles of Scilly! You never know what’s going to be around the next corner and everyone we met along the way were so nice and friendly. There are beaches to explore, sand tracks to run free down and varied coastlines to explore.

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    Flora and Fauna

    Walking around you’ll come across so many flowers and plants that grow on these islands. Wild garlic grows along the coastal paths and the lovely scent fills the air.

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    Stay in luxury

    We stayed at the luxury hotel Karma St Martins with interconnecting rooms perfect for families. Both rooms had balconies with amazing views overlooking the azure waters of the Tean Sound. The rooms were perfect, as was the hotel location. The hotel staff were all lovely, and the food was delicious which we enjoyed eating al fresco with the lovely summer weather we had. A 5 minute walk down the road is the only pub on the island of St Martins, Seven Stones Inn which you must also try for great food, drink and amazing panoramic views. Other amenities at the hotel included a lovely spa, a white-sand beach, a private jetty and an art gallery. There were lots of activities you could try out such as horseback riding and snorkelling with seals which we will be trying on our next visit.

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  • The Top 10 Theme Parks in France

    The Top 10 Theme Parks in France

    One thing that France really has got more than its fair share of is theme parks. Whichever region you happen to be heading to, chances are you won’t be far from at least a handful of world-class parks for adults and kids of all ages. From water-parks to big-brand theme parks to those of a slightly more educational nature, all tastes and needs are catered to in spades. So if you happen to find yourself with the pick of the bunch, consider paying a visit to one of the following top 10 theme parks in France:

    1 – Disneyland Paris

    Sure it’s obvious, but it’s also by a huge margin one of the most incredible theme parks in Europe. Not only this, but it’s also the only official Disney theme park in the continent. Occupying an enormous plot that’s larger than most French towns, Disneyland Paris is easy to get to from the UK, from Paris itself from pretty much anywhere in France. Wild rides, quirky characters and your favourite Disney stories brought to life – epic on so many levels!

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    2 – Puy du Fou

    All you really need to know about Puy du Fou is that back in 2012, it was voted the best theme park on Earth. Which when you consider how many of the things there are is a pretty spectacular achievement. From medieval knights to Romans to musketeers to Vikings, to say that history comes to life in a colourful way would be something of an understatement. The daily highlight is the evening stage show, which features no less than 1,200 actors and performers!

    3 – Futuroscope

    Another simply gigantic theme park, Futuroscope really doesn’t fit into any conventional genre. The reason being that it created a brand new type of park in its own right – one based on multimedia and technology. From robots to 4D cinemas to incredible rides and experiences, it’s a little like stepping into the future and making your own personal playground out of it!

    4 – Festyland

    Festyland is another historical theme park and very easy to get to from the UK with Brittany Ferries running ferries from Portsmouth to Le Havre – this theme park is a huge hit with younger kids in particular. After all, where else would you get to see dinosaurs, vikings and pirates all in the same place? Featuring a medieval castle, water-slides, rides, shows and everything else you could wish for, Festyland is also delightfully compact and easy to explore.

    5 – Parc de Préhistoire de Bretagne

    Sticking with that dinosaur theme for just a moment, everything prehistoric comes well and truly to life at the Parc de Préhistoire de Bretagne. The setting itself is nothing short of stunning – lakes, forests and gorgeous parklands that hide more than a few surprises. Seriously – turn any corner and you might just find yourself face-to-face with an impressively realistic life-size dinosaur!

     

     

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    6 – Cité de l’Espace

    Adults and kids alike never fail to get a kick out of Cité de l’Espace, which as the name quite rightly suggests is a theme park that’s all about the big black. Boasting life-size replicas of real space craft and even the Mir space station, it’s about the closets most will ever get to blasting themselves off the face of the Earth an into the great beyond! The moonwalk simulator is also a must, for obvious reasons!

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    7 – Terra Botanica

    How exciting can a plant-themed theme park really be? Take a trip to Terra Botanica and you’ll find out! It’s all about fantasy here – something that becomes immediately apparent upon noticing the elves and bicycles riding about the place throughout the day! White-knuckle thrills are replaced by an idyllic open garden with endless opportunities for total relaxation.

     

    8 – Parc Astérix

    Definitely the most famous French theme park after Disneyland Paris, Parc Astérix is divided into a variety of zones with different historic themes. From Egypt to Rome to Ancient Greece to the Vikings and many more besides, Parc Astérix is less about education and more about spectacular fun. There are rides and attractions to suit all tastes and ages across the board – getting to meet those iconic characters in person is also a treat not to be missed!

     

    9 – Aqualand – Bassin d’Arcachon

    If you’re out to find a good waterpark, Aqualand Arcachon is the best of the best. Feel free to test your nerve against the Black Hole flume – a terrifying slide that plunges brave riders into pitch-black darkness!

     

    10 – Vulcania

    Last but not least, if you’re looking for something that’s an absolute one of a kind, look no further than Vulcania – the volcano-themed fun park! Less of a white-knuckle thrill-fest and more of an experience, most of the action takes place underground – right at the heart of an active volcano! Or at least, that’s how it’s all set up, incorporating a number of rides, plenty of experiments to play with and a wild n’ wacky 4D cinema.



  • 4 adventurous things to do when in Blackpool

    4 adventurous things to do when in Blackpool

    If you’re looking to visit a theme park or amusement area in Britain this year, there’s only one option, and that’s Blackpool. Alton Towers used to be fun but you’ll you can spend all day there and only get on three rides. That’s if the rides are even operating because recently a lot of them have been shut down. Thorpe Park is great fun if you live near London. If not, though, it’s a pain to get to, and that just leaves Legoland. Legoland is a delight, but only up until a certain age. Disney this is not and parents will soon get bored being dragged to different rides that hold no appeal for them. That does just leave Blackpool. It’s not just the theme park that makes this area stand out, though it’s certainly a good start. There’s plenty of other activities too that kids and adults can enjoy. Here’s my pick of the best attractions you don’t want to miss when you visit Blackpool

    1. Pleasure Beach

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    Picture from Flickr

    Obviously, if you’re heading to black pool, you are going to visit Pleasure Beach. You would be crazy to miss out on this one. It doesn’t get much better than this when it comes to theme park holidays. It’s just a short walk away from the North train station. Or, you can park around the back of the park for just ten pounds for the whole day. That’s an absolute steal considering how much there is to do in the centre of Blackpool. However, we should start with Pleasure Beach, and I suggest you buy your tickets online. That way, you can get them at a discounted price. There are a few rides you want to hit as early as possible because the queues get bigger as the day goes on. My advice is to arrive early and head to the back of the park, working your way to the front. That way, you’ll get the Pepsi Max, Infusion and Nickelodeon Land.  All are major attractions at pleasure beach, and you want to beat the queues. Nickelodeon Land is really for the kids but adults might get a kick out of seeing their old favourite characters.

    Here’s a little extra nugget of info. If you’re a tad more daring rather than being strapped in and riding the Pepsi Max, you can walk it. A guided tour will take you all the way to the top and right back down again. It’s a lot scarier than it sounds.

     

    2) Pasaje Del Terror

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    Picture from Flickr

    I warn you now; this one is not for younger kids, and even older ones that scare easily may find it discomforting. You see characters like the one in the picture above and they are quite nerve wracking in the dark. The best way that I can describe it is like walking through a horror film. Think London Dungeons only a little more sinister with darker imagery. It’s a guided tour, and you’re not left alone in the environment. As well as this the performers won’t touch you, but it’s still pretty darn frightening. Most people are going to love it though because it’s just like riding a roller coaster. You get that same rush of fear, and I’m sure there’s a photo snap or two so you can remember wetting yourself. It’s described as the best-haunted house ever, and it lives up to its name!

     

    3) Sandcastle Water Park

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    Looking for something a little more lighthearted? Well, then I suggest you head across the road to Sandcastle. You can’t miss it. It’s brilliantly colourful building with tubes sticking out the side. They’ve just built some fantastic new water rides (visit their youtube channel here)in the dark that throws you into a dome before you’ve dropped down a hole in the middle. There’s two, and you’ll want to ride them both because they offer slightly different thrills. Sandcastle is fun for all ages, and there’s even a brilliant play area for kids or regressing adults.

    For parents who want to feel pampered, you can rent a tiki room. This is a private area that includes a luxury massage chair and a wide screen TV. You’ll have your view of the indoor park stretched out below to keep an eye on your little miscreants. I believe you also have access to a wonderful Jacuzzi. You see? Sometime’s it’s fun to be an adult.

     

    4) Blackpool Zoo

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    Kids and parents will love visiting the different animals living at this wonderful little zoo. You can say hello to a Silverback Gorilla, count the teeth of an African tiger or play peekaboo with the diving penguins. Particularly, if you have kids, Blackpool Zoo offers a jungle-sized adventure. Remember, you can get a ticket for all the attractions that covers everything from the zoo to Pleasure Beach. It’s something to look into if you’re staying for more than a day.

    I hope you have a wonderful time exploring these brilliant adventures for yourself.  

  • 4 Awesome Road Trip Tips

    4 Awesome Road Trip Tips

    The open road, home of a hundred thousand arguments. But also one of the best places to have a holiday. We’re talking about road trips. How exhilarating and delightfully exhausting they can be. Making stupid jokes about the things you see. Stopping off at places where the people are just a little weirder. Catching some genuinely beautiful sights. It’s all a great way to travel with friends. So how do you make sure it’s even more awesome? By following the tips below, of course.

     

     

    Know where the heck you’re going

    At some point on the road trip, there is going to be a bit of bickering. No escaping that. But by all means, make sure it isn’t about which route you’re taking. Even those who’ve never had that argument are sick of it by now. Get things all planned out before you go and take a GPS or app with you. Feel free to explore, by any means….Pokemon Go if you have to 🙂 Just make sure you can get back to your next stop and argue about meaningful things. Like what kind of food to stop for.

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    Take everything but the kitchen sink

    Road trips are all about adventure. About dealing with new and interesting scenarios. Going further than you would usually. So make sure that you’re actually prepared to go there. If you want to head up beyond the highlands, make sure you have the right clothes to keep you warm. Or something a bit looser if you’re heading south. If you’re going camping, make sure you got the tools for that. You don’t want to miss out on those kinds of experiences by simply failing to pack for them.

     

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    Dealing with trouble

    As much you want, there are sometimes you can’t avoid a bit of trouble. So just accept it all as part of the package. But make sure you prepare for it as well. Take an emergency kit so you can easily get off the road. Have a switched off phone lying in the glove compartment so you’re in no risk of running out of battery when you need help. If you need to make a car accident compensation claim, you need to actually be able to talk to someone, right?

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    Keep it fun

    The arguments and road bumps are all worth it, however. That is, so long as you make sure to keep it fun. Don’t let just one person drive the whole way. Circulate and delegate responsibilities. Keep someone in charge of keeping music going. Or overseeing what stupid games you might want to play on the road. Like a game of ‘take the worst road trip photo you can’. It’s supposed to be fun, so if the mood starts getting a bit sour, change the pace. Make a sudden stop or start a game that’s going to perk everyone up.

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    We hope the tips above help. Don’t worry if something goes wrong now and then. It’s a road trip, so road bumps are expected. Just take it all in as part of the trip.