Cool Things Collection

Tag: Travel

Packed and ready to travel? How to save even more money before you depart

So, you’re off on your travels? You should be excited and full of anticipation, but you can be forgiven for feeling apprehensive for how much your trip is going to set you back. That said, there are numerous ways you’re able to save money before you even leave for the airport!

Make the most of freebies

And this doesn’t just include those toiletry miniatures gifted to you by your hotel! Of course, if you are off travelling, there’s likely to be a ton of activities you want to try and a heap of things you want to tick off your bucket list – doing this really doesn’t have to be that expensive. If you do your research, you’re more than likely to find a lot of free activities in the area. As well as Google, look around for leaflets in the hotel lobby and ask to see a community calendar so you can see what’s happening while you’re there. Moreover, a lot of museums offer free admission or at least ask that you consider a donation of a voluntary amount.

Use loyalty cards

Many airlines and hotel chains will offer loyalty points or miles. This is essentially a reward system that will gift you points for staying there – they’re great to use for free overnight stays. And with miles, if you’re flying long distances you should be able to rack up enough points to bag yourself a free flight of a certain distance, or at least an upgrade to business class. And to make the transition from your flight to hotel and vice versa as seamless as possible, a cheap and fast way to get to your airport is through airport transfers.

Eat smart

Admittedly, eating is a big part of travelling as trying new cuisines is part of sampling new cultures. However, don’t let this be an excuse to overindulge – eat at least one meal in your hotel room. Head to a nearby supermarket or farmer’s market and pick up something that is ready to eat or something that doesn’t need to be cooked. Not only is it a good way to save money, but after a long day of sightseeing, it means you’re able to kick back and snack on the delicious goodies you’ve scored. In addition to this, book hotel rooms that include breakfast in the price – this will save you £10-15 per day in some places!

Don’t obsess over luxury

We all love a little luxury but this is something you need to sacrifice while travelling. The best room isn’t necessary; consider just how much time you’re going to be spending in there and it’s more than likely the case that you’re just sleeping and showering there. Forego that extra space, nice view and hotel gym and you can save yourself a serious buck. This money could be reinvested on experiences or activities, or saved and put towards your next trip – and once that travel bug bites you, you’ll always be on the move.

28 August 2019
Discovering Paris: 3 alternative things to do in the capital of love

Whether you’re heading to Paris for the first, second or umpteenth time, you might want to venture into those parts that are less touristy and more Parisian. So just what does Paris offer the avid explorer?Here are some of the top things we’ve found for you to do on this next adventure:

Set Sail on a River Cruise

If you want to see Paris from a completely different angle, what could be better than a Seine river cruise? And with so many different types to choose from, you can opt for a cruise to suit you.

For example, the Bateaux Parisiens river cruise is the ideal way to see the sights of Paris, including the Eiffel Tower, the Pont Neuf and the Pont des Arts. Want to add a more romantic twist? Then you might want to combine dinner and champagne with this cruise – or head out when the sun has gone down for a truly magical view of the city.

Head Off on a Secret Walking Tour

There’s a lot more to Paris than meets the eye, which is why a walking tour that explores the depth and breadth of this city may be just what you’re looking for.

The ‘Secret Paris’ tour will see you discovering hidden villages within one of the most visited cities in the world, exploring its local cuisine and culture, and venturing into picturesque areas that are largely untouched by tourism.

Plus, if you’re staying in Paris for a while, this is the perfect way to find places you’d like to come back to and explore in more detail.

Venture Deep into the Catacombs

Although the Catacombs are anything but romantic, they are absolutely fascinating and wonderfully scary. With six million skeletons hidden in the Catacombs beneath the bustling streets of Paris, they have a chilling edge that sees many tourists flocking to discover them.

But did you know there is a lesser-known way to explore this macabre side of Paris – the Musée des Égouts de Paris (translated quite literally as, the Sewer Museum)?

Built in the 19^th century, Paris’s sewerage system is a complete mirror image of the streets above, right down to the road signs that direct you around them. Many years ago, visitors could travel these sewers by boat. However, today, the sewers are far more hygienic and not as smelly.

Whether you’re just looking to escape from the heat of the Parisian sun, you’re a die-hard fan of Jean Valjean from Les Misérables or you’re fascinated by engineering – this museum is well worth a visit.

Armed with these three handy tips, your next trip to Paris will have an air of adventure, intrigue and mystery about it.

6 June 2019
Last-minute half-term destinations for families

If you’re thinking of taking a last-minute half-term holiday – you’ll need options fast! Perhaps you’re imagining a family escape that will entertain and educate, maybe it’s an action-packed adventure or simply a beach holiday with lots of sunshine. These five sensational destinations are certain to provide you with the inspiration you’re looking for.

Escape the ordinary in Slovenia

From fairytale lakes and islands to castles and caves, endless hidden wonders are waiting to be discovered in Slovenia. What might surprise you is that flights from the UK will get you here in just two hours, making this one of the most attractive family destinations.

Portoroz is one of the most enchanting medieval towns in Slovenia and a popular seaside resort. Soak up the sun on the white sands of Portoroz Beach or amble along the promenade lined with cafes and restaurants. The pristine turquoise waters of Lake Bled are perfect for swimming and a popular spot for water sports. Explore the Postojna Caves via an electric train or head to one of Slovenia’s amusement, water and theme parks for a day of pure joy.

Lake Bled

Sun, sea and sand in Cyprus

Flights from the UK to Cyprus are just over four hours, making the country an ideal short-haul holiday destination. Both Larnaca and Paphos boast family-friendly resorts, show stopping beaches with unrivalled water sports and activities for all ages. There are plenty of fun outings to be had, take a unique safari ride on a camel at the Camel Park of Mazotos in Larnaca where the kids can interact with animals like ostriches, wallabies and llamas.

The park also has a 5D cinema, bumper cars and a mini train ride. The Aphrodite water park in Paphos will thrill with high-speed water slides while close encounters with animals like exotic chameleons, big cats and crocodiles will impress at Paphos Zoo.

Sea Caves, Cyprus

The magic of Mexico

If you’re prepared to be in the air for a little longer, Mexico is one of the hottest family holiday destinations for 2019. And when it comes to idyllic allure, Mexico tops the list with its colonial charm, ruined temples and dazzling white sandy beaches. If you’re dreaming of warm waters and palm-tree-lined promenades, the all-inclusive resorts in Cancun will not disappoint.

This region offers high-octane water sports, child-friendly museums and the impressive Xcaret theme park complete with a water park and zoo. If you’re looking for adventure, you’ll relish zip-lining over dense jungle or thundering through lush rain forest in an off-road 4×4 jeep. You could also take the whole family back in time to discover the rich history and culture of Mexico City and the ancient Mayan temples of Chichen Itza.

Xcaret

Tantalising Thailand

Thailand is a calming tropical utopia, but it also has some of the world’s most lively and colourful cities. Yes, it’s a 10-hour flight, but if you want beautiful family-friendly beaches, you’re spoilt for choice; the beautiful waters of Bang Tao Beach in Phuket are perfect for little sandy toes, ice lollies and sandcastles, while Kata Beach suits older kids keen to learn to surf and boogie board.

The nightlife in Bangkok is legendary, so soak up the vibe, ride tuk-tuks and try out the famed street food scene. You may be travelling with kids, but that doesn’t mean you can’t go out for cocktails. Children over seven are welcome at the Sky Bar atop the Lebua State Tower, perfect for a few sundowners to watch the city slowly turn golden and usher in the cityscape by night.

Family fun in Florida

For a family holiday unlike any other, you can’t beat Florida. Here, the theme parks, water parks and attractions are geared for children and the young at heart. Your tots will never forget magical encounters with their favourite Disney characters at Walt Disney World Resort while tweens and teens will be captivated by the adrenaline-fuelled water parks.

Universal Orlando Resort is the only place in the world where you can soar over Hogwarts with Harry Potter or swing through city streets with Spider-Man and the aquatic wonderland at SeaWorld Orlando will inspire and delight all ages. There’s a plethora of accommodation options including themed hotels like Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, resorts with fully-fledged water parks or a private villa close to your family’s favourite theme park.

Walt Disney World, Orlando

Whether it’s short-haul or long-haul, make your last-minute half-term holiday one to remember. With plenty of incredible places to discover and memories just waiting to be made, all that’s left to do is choose your destination and look forward to where your next adventure will take you.

21 May 2019
A Memorable Weekend Break In Rome

Rome was top of my bucket list of must see places in Europe for too long. In the summer we finally got to take a long weekend city break to the eternal city. I must admit, I wasn’t prepared for what my eyes were going to see and my mind try and comprehend during our fantastic time in Rome. We wanted to see the ancient ruins like the Roman Forum and the Colosseum, also a visit to Vatican City and museums and of course St. Peter’s Basilica, and we did…and it did not disappoint! Our hotel we picked was no9colosseo.com from the great trip advisor reviews and the view of the colosseum from our bedroom was spectacular. I researched hotels and chose this hotel because of it’s view and easy walking distance to many of the historical places we wanted to visit. The best way to see and experience everything in Rome is to walk. Walking at night was best with the cooler temperature, less busy and very romantic with everything lit up.

We found ourselves instantly walking amongst classical ruins and early Christian places of worship. Stumbling across amazing architecture, statues, ruins – it’s almost too much for you to take in and after a while it becomes normal to see an amazing detailed giant sculpture that must have taken years to create. It’s an incredible city. Some decent graffiti too. There were so many great neighbourhoods, shops, markets and a buzzing aperitivo scene. The gelato did not disappoint!

We saw this chap just hovering in the street – no idea how!

And came across the biggest salami we’ve ever seen…

Food was really delicious and fresh – especially if you enjoy pasta and pizza like us.

The weather was fine and hot both days reaching 90+ degrees in daytime. Thankfully there was hundreds of places to get ice cold drinks from. On Saturday we visited the Vatican museums – mid afternoon a storm blew in whilst we were inside the museums with torrential rain, thunder and lightening which just added to the amazing experience.

St Peter’s Basilica was the highlight of the trip – we visited the Vatican first and then queued to go into St Peter’s Basilica – the sheer scale blew our minds like nothing we had ever seen before, nor are likely to again. We decided to climb the hundreds of steps to the top of St Peter’s Basilica. The lift was only 2 euros extra – in hindsight we probably should have done that and saved our legs as it was knackering and very tight passages in places….but wow the view was worth it!

View from the top of St Peter’s Basilica

Inside St Peter’s Basilica was simply mind boggling! I can’t really put into words what this place is like and any amount of photos just don’t do any justice. It’s one of those places you have to see.

On Sunday morning we bought tickets for a Colosseum tour so we skipped the hour long queue and went straight in. It was worth seeing inside, it’s scale again like so many things in Rome is enormous – you find yourself imaging what it would have been like when the Colosseum was full of spectators watching the gladiators battle. The heat, the noise, the spectacle must have been incredible.

We loved the experience and don’t think we will ever forget being inside St Peter’s Basilica. One day I’m sure we will go back with our boys – it’s one hell of a history lesson that’s for sure!

23 January 2019
The Top Reasons For Using An Airport Carpark When Travelling

When you are travelling, there are lots of things that you need to think about. Where are you going to stay? How much are your flights going to cost? These are things that everyone needs to consider carefully to ensure that they are ready for their big trip. Of course, one of the most important things is often the thing that has been left to the last minute – how will you get to the airport?

Believe it or not, but one of the best ways to get to the airport is using your own car and parking it in the airport car park. Here we are going to talk you through some of the reasons why you should think about giving airport car parking a chance. Keep reading to find out more and be prepared for your next big trip.

Cost-Effective

One of the best reasons for trying out airport car parking is that it can be very cost-effective. This is because you don’t need to pay for a taxi or a bus as you will be using your own vehicle. Of course, you will need to pay for your car to be parked there for the duration of your trip but is not as expensive as you might think. On top of this, some airports including Luton airport parking have discounts if you book your parking space in advance. This means that you’ll get a better deal and could save as much as 60%. There are details on this site of how you can take advantage of this offer and save yourself some money on getting to and from the airport.

Manage Your Own Time

How often do you feel rushed to get to the airport? Missing your flight would be an absolute nightmare and you might end up losing out on a lot of money. Unfortunately, people can miss their flights when they are relying on others to get them to the airport. This could be anything from a family member being late to pick you up or a taxi being extremely late. This is why using an airport carpark can be a much better option as you will be in charge of the time that you leave. If you can leave in your own time, you will only have yourself to blame for being later. Consider taking your own car and relying on yourself by opting for an airport carpark.

Variety Of Options

Many people think that using an airport car park means that they will have to walk from the carpark to the terminal with all of their bags when a taxi could drop them off a lot closer. Of course, what you need to remember about airport car parking is that there are actually a lot of options that will get you to where you need to go in a fraction of the time. Airports like Luton offer park and ride services as well as meet and greets and much more. If you take a look online at the options in advance, you can find the right option for you and your family. You can then book in advance and be sure that this option is going to be available on the day of your departure.

Forgetting Something

Whenever we leave for the airport, we always think that we have forgotten something. Of course, it is not always possible to turn back and grab that item when you are in a taxi or a bus that is heading straight to the airport. This is why taking your own car can be extremely beneficial as you will be able to drive back to your house and get what you have forgotten if you have enough time. There’s no need to go on holiday without your child’s favourite toy or your forgotten suitcase – take your own car, park in an airport carpark and you will be much happier.

Look After Your Car

When you are travelling, you are often leaving your home alone for a week or two. This is fine if you have someone checking on it often but what about your car? If you don’t have a garage to keep it in, then it is at risk of being damaged or stolen when someone notices that it hasn’t moved in a few days or weeks. This is why using an airport car park can actually be the best option as you will be sure that your car is in safe hands. You won’t need to worry about anyone coming along and trying to steal it as it will be ready and waiting for your return right there in the airport car park. This is the best way to look after your car when you go away on holiday so make sure to consider taking advantage of this service.

Convenience

The last thing that you want to have to worry about when you are going on holiday is the inconvenience of getting a taxi or having two get two buses with young children. Convenience is extremely important in travel and it can often make or break your holiday if you are able to make things more convenient for yourself. You will find that parking your car at an airport carpark can actually make things a lot more convenient and will make the whole process of getting to and from the airport a lot easier. Convenience is key so consider this when making your travel plans in the future.

Get Home Quicker

The final reason why you might want to park your car in the airport carpark when you are travelling is that you can get home quicker when your trip is over. Depending on where you are travelling from, you may have been flying for a lot of hours and so you can be extremely tired. As long as it is safe enough for you to drive, you can easily pick up your car from the carpark and get home as soon as possible. This saves you time ordering a taxi to come pick you up or having to get a bus into the city centre to then have to get home from there. No one wants to have to do more travelling after getting off a long-haul flight so consider parking your car in an airport carpark to get home even faster in the future.

Final Verdict

Many people avoid bringing their car to the airport for a variety of reasons, but this is not always the best idea. When you decide to make use of an airport carpark, you can save money on the other method of transport that you would have had to use otherwise, and this might be priced per person travelling with you. You will also be able to save some money by booking your space in advance and making use of the discounts online at airports like Luton or Heathrow. Consider booking your car into the airport carpark to make travelling a lot more convenient and you will be able to manage your time a lot more effectively.

Take on board all of the advice that we have given you here and you will have a great trip.

23 January 2019
4 destinations to add to your retirement bucket list

Retirement will mean something different to everyone. Perhaps you’re after peace and quiet after a hectic lifestyle, maybe you’re finally going to get the time to devote to your hobbies, or you might want to see the world and everything it has to offer. If you’re in the latter camp, then let All Clear inspire you with some amazing retirement bucket list ideas. Once you pick your top destinations to visit, remember to take out a comprehensive travel insurance policy, which will cover you for anything that might happen whilst you’re abroad.

Safari

So many of us enjoy spending our evenings watching David Attenborough’s majestic programmes about wild animals. The only thing that could top this is a once in a lifetime safari holiday, with an opportunity to see all those animals up close in their natural habitat. Many countries offer safari packages, like South Africa, Botswana, Zambia and Kenya. They’ll differ by the kinds of animals you’re most likely to encounter so do a little research beforehand to ensure that you will see majestic elephants or towering giraffes. It’s bound to be an unforgettable experience.

Norway

You may have enjoyed a stay in Norway before, but have you ever experienced its enchanting Northern Lights display? Also known as aurora borealis, this natural light show can be observed from several locations along the Norwegian coast, with plenty of activities to keep you busy in the meantime. You can plan for quite an active trip, including skiing and reindeer experiences to keep you busy. Expand your trip and opt to see Nordic fjords for a glimpse of wild and undisturbed nature.

Route 66

Not one location but a tour of all things America, for anyone who loves driving and being the boss of their own time. The famous route will take you through quite a few states, including Illinois, Arizona, and California, covering a total of 2,448 miles if you choose to drive the whole way. There’s plenty to see in every state, from cultural highlights to natural wonders, and quite the range of American cuisine to sample. Choose whether you’d like to drive east to west or the opposite and plan some stop along the way to ensure that you have plenty of time to rest and see the local sights.

Galapagos Islands

The Galapagos Islands are a natural wonder, home to animals that aren’t found anywhere else in the world, making this destination a truly unique one. The islands are made up of varied terrains, boasting active volcanoes, dense flora, and idyllic beaches. Diving, hiking, and simply exploring are all on the menu so you can have as active or relaxing holiday as you like. Tortuga Bay is a popular destination thanks to its white sandy beaches and potential for encounters with some very interesting local creatures. The Charles Darwin Research Centre will be of interest of many, the centre has an active breeding programme alongside plentiful information about what makes the Galapagos so special.

2 January 2019
10 Cool Things to Do in Nottingham
Nottingham is a popular tourist destination in England, with a myriad of historical landmarks, museums, picturesque landscapes, entertaining venues and relaxation facilities. Here is a list of 10 cool things one must inevitably do in Nottingham:
1. Visit the Contemporary Gallery
Dare to step a foot in this impressive art attraction of the city, to be persuaded, then, to stay the whole day, admiring the spectacular masterpieces of the contemporary painters and music artists.
1. Take a stroll around Wollaton Park
Enjoy the evergreen landscapes of the park, and end up in the Wollaton Hall, which served as the Batman’s house in the popular film. The castle amidst the park boasts, also, two museums, and hosts regularly entertaining activities and music festivals.
1. Try Adrenalin Jungle
At Adrenalin Jungle you will have to show your courage, by participating in challenging activities, such as: quad biking, archery and assault course. At the end, you will possibly strike gold, by winning the exciting treasure hunt competition.

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1. Explore City of Caves
Get an unforgettable experience by discovering the treasure beneath the bustling Nottingham’s streets. There you will see an impressive network of 450 caves, carved out of sandstone, that will immerse you in the history of the city.
1. Visit Nottingham Playhouse
Get known with the cultural life of the city through the events hosted by the one of the most prestigious theatres of England, The playhouse offers a range of dance, drama and comedy that will make up for a wonderful night spent in a relaxing atmosphere.
1. Experience an adrenaline spike at Holme Pierrepont Country Park (National Watersports Centre)
Go bold by facing the impetuous stream of water, in an attempt to perform a rapid descend down the rushing river. In order to end up successful, you will have to leave all fears apart, and row intensively to the last drop of sweat on your body.
1. Get a massage
After an exhausting battle with fierce waters, get a massage or spa session at one of the Nottingham salons. There your stiff muscles will get relaxed, and your body gently massaged by a professional therapist, to get a full restoration of strengths and energy. Try the best massage deals in Nottingham!
1. Nottingham Arboretum
Pay a visit to the oldest park of Nottingham, boasting over 800 various trees, some of which date from the 19th century. The park has impressive landscapes that make up for a perfect place for a family stroll, or a dog walk.
1. Attend the Nottingham Beer Festival
If you are lucky to be there, you will get the chance to have a wonderful time spending with lots of beer, uplifting, live music, and stalls with food. The festival takes place once a year, starting on October 7.
1. Robin Hood Tour
Get an entertaining city tour, guided by the legendary Robin Hood. He will show in detail you the historical aspects of the city, providing impressive facts about the caves, museums and theatres.
4 October 2018
Thule Rolling Duffle Travel Bag Review
Award-winning Swedish company Thule known for there awesome vehicle bike racks and carriers have brought out a cool range of Subterra luggage and backpacks that incorporate Scandinavian design, chic simplicity and some innovative features. I purchased a Thule Crossover Rolling Duffel 87L and was so impressed, I’ve reviewed it with my thoughts. First off, here are some pictures of the duffel bag because as luggages goes, this is a pretty cool looking bag.

Wide-mouth, easy-access rolling duffel bag for loading with helmets, boots, gloves, jackets, and other travel essentials.

Large capacity gear bag with a wide mouth access to easily load helmets, boots, gloves, jackets and other travel essentials.

Tough, lightweight & durable…

Whilst it’s a large capacity 87 litre bag, it’s lightweight, really strong and sturdy. One of the main stand out points of the bag for me are the oversized wheels that help you roll over obstacles and the way the bag effortlessly rolls making it a pleasure to use. The material of the bag is made from a water-resistant fabric so all your gear stays dry – especially reassuring when it’s sat on the airport tarmac waiting to go into the airplane hold. This is a bag built to do years of service. It has a tough aluminium exoskeleton, with a moulded polypropylene back panel; providing a lightweight impact-proof design. The Thule 87L Crossover Duffel is easily the best holdall that I’ve owned to date, and it makes travelling with a lot of gear a lot easier.

Clever design…

This bag has a crushproof ‘SafeZone’ compartment – nice touch! I can now house my fragile gear such as sunglasses/goggles which is perfect for when I go snowboarding and protect my expensive Oakley’s. I’ve had bags in the past that I’ve opened to find my sunglasses smashed to bits, so I really appreciate the crushproof ‘safezone’ compartment. Also like the other zips on the bag, it has a lockable zipper so the contents are all safe. The Thule Crossover 87L facilities safe transport with ease – the polypropylene back creates a bottom section that is ideal for housing helmets and other crush-able products; this is then protected from shocks from below, and if the top section of the bag is filled with clothing, then that provides a buffer to impacts from above.

Removable and lockable crushproof SafeZone compartment protects your sunglasses, iPhone®, portable electronics, and other fragile gear

Love…

I’ve had quite a few pieces of luggage in the past that’ve all been hit and miss. In a nut-shell I just wanted something that makes travelling easier and keep all my gear safe. The Thule Crossover 87L ticks all the boxes and more. Here’s why I love this bag…
- Love the bags cool looks, technical features and functionality.
- Love the multiple grab handles found on both ends and the front side of the make which makes storing it, grabbing from the car or luggage carousel etc so much easier.
- Love the semi ridged clamshell design which opens for fast access to the main compartment that’s separated by a zippered mesh to keep dirty from clean or wet from dry. When the clamshell is closed the main compartment is also accessible from the top via a zippered fold out flap for easy top loading. Nice!
- Love the durability and the super stylish V tubing used on the smooth functioning telescoping pull handle, and the custom ultra cool over sized wheels for ease of use.
- Love the wheels – they are no ordinary luggage wheels! the wheels were developed through extensive testing and development which included freezing a fully loaded duffle then dropping it on the wheels multiple times from a height of 10 feet. Impressive.
- Last but certainly not least, in fact saving the best to last…I love the crush proof lockable and removable Safe Zone located at the top end of the duffle for storage of eyewear or electronic goods for easy access and protection.
Verdict…

This is an awesome bag for travelling made to a very high standard. Like every other product that Thule sell, the Crossover duffel has some really cool design additions and functionality that makes travel much easier and enjoyable. Quality luggage like this doesn’t come cheap but I have to say it’s well worth it as this bag will probably out live me. This bag provides value for money and promises to carry your gear to its destination safely and comfortably for years and years.

Features
- Aluminium hardware and water-resistant fabrics combine to create a lightweight, durable bag
- Durable exoskeleton and a moulded polypropylene back panel absorb the impact of rugged travel
- Tough, oversized wheels and V-Tubing™ telescoping handles guarantee a smooth, steady and straight pull for years
- Compression straps customise the bag to the size of your load
- Removable and lockable crushproof SafeZone compartment protects your sunglasses, iPhone®, portable electronics, and other fragile gear
- Divided main compartment keeps clean-from-dirty, wet-from-dry, and work-from-play
Technical specifications
- Dimensions = 44 x 42 x 79 cm
- Weight = 4.3 kg
- Volume = 87 Litres
Available to buy from: thule.com
12 September 2018
Why Peru Has so Much More to Offer than Machu Picchu

When you think of Peru, it’s natural to automatically think of Machu Picchu. As amazing as this part of Peru is, there’s actually so much more to this beautiful country that you’ll want to explore. Here, you’ll discover some of the best reasons, other than Machu Picchu, to visit this extraordinary country.

Stunning scenic beaches

Peru has some of the most beautiful stretches of coastline to explore, making it an ideal option for beach lovers. If you’re seeking a quieter, more tranquil getaway, you’ll find the largely deserted beaches in Lima a perfect choice. If you’re looking for a more action-packed beach holiday, Mancora is ideal. You can surf the waves, then party at night.

So, whatever type of beach getaway you prefer, you’ll find it in Peru! Don’t forget to take your camera either – you’ll want to capture the breath-taking beaches to show everyone back home.

Fascinating culture

One of the best things about Peru is its fascinating, rich culture. Every part of Peru has a different culture to be explored, whether you head to the jungle, Lima or Cusco. The latter is particularly rich in culture, with the Inca empire’s legacy still very much alive wherever you go. There’s also two native cultures in Peru including the Aymara and the Quechua – both of which speak their own native language. So, if you prefer a cultural getaway, Peru is pretty tough to beat.

A land of adventure

When it comes to adventure, Peru has something for everyone. From hiking and trekking, to rafting, zip-lining and exploring the lush rainforests – there’s sure to be something the whole family can enjoy. It’s not all about adrenaline filled activities either. The entire landscape of Peru is awesome to explore. Its coastlines are desert, there’s a lot of Inca ruins to be explored and there’s every type of landscape you can imagine. You can book affordable adventure holidays to Peru through Exodus Travels.

A haven for wildlife

Peru boasts eight different national parks, seven sanctuaries and eight national reserves. This means there’s a staggering amount of wildlife to experience, no matter which area you head to.

If you love birds, you’ll especially want to head to the Manu National Park. It’s known to be the biggest biosphere reserve in the whole of Peru, boasting over 1000 different species of birds. If you want to potentially see something a little more exotic, the Tingo Maria national park is the place to head to. You’ll have the opportunity to spot Peruvian Camelids, tapirs and even jaguars and cougars.

No matter what type of holiday you’re looking to enjoy, Peru has something for everyone. It’s one of the most beautiful and remarkable destinations in the world and is sure to leave you with everlasting memories. So, if you haven’t considered travelling to Peru to discover more than Machu Picchu, you’ll definitely want to look into its other amazing benefits! It’s not hard to see why so many people fall in love with this majestic country.

14 May 2018
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.

26 March 2018
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.

9 February 2018
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 – 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 – 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 – 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 – 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 – 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 – 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 – Image Source

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18 January 2018
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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

24 October 2016
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.

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!

14 October 2016
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.

From Flickr

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!

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.

9 September 2016
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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

7 September 2016
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.

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.

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.

The sand on the beaches on St Martins even sparkle!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

26 August 2016
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!

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!

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!

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.

8 August 2016
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.

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.

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?

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.

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.

25 July 2016