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France In A Flash - Arrange A Quick French Getaway

France In A Flash - How To Arrange A Super-quick French Getaway

Sometimes you just want to drop it all and get out of the country for a bit. Maybe an overnight stay or a weekend is all you need to get a change of scene and perhaps a bit of perspective on life at home. For such last-minute travel whims booking a flight is a drag. Firstly, you need to research the airline operators who use your local airport, then pick a destination that won’t set you back a fortune, then work out their baggage charges and airport taxes. For a quick getaway, airports are really nothing like as convenient as they used to be even twenty years ago.

Instead, consider a trip to France as a much more viable option for your party, especially if it is to be arranged at the last moment. By foot, it is easy to get to the Channel ports of Northern France like Calais, Dunkirk or Boulogne-sur-mer. If you choose to take your car, then it is not much further to head into Normandy, Belgium or even the French capital itself, Paris. Any of these destinations are perfectly good choices for a short break - even a single overnight stay. If you are going for a weeklong getaway, then most of Western Europe opens up as a holiday destination.

However, if you are looking for a super-quick break, then it is likely that you won’t want much onward travel once you hit French soil. Additionally, you will probably find it more convenient to take your car on Eurotunnel than via one of the ferry operators. This is because the Le Shuttle services that run through the tunnel are faster than a ferry to France and you can get on enjoying your getaway all the sooner. Booking is quite easy and there are various pricing points that you can look over which reflect the length of your chosen stay.

Once in France, it is easy to get into the swing of things and relax a little. For starters, the French autoroutes are – generally speaking – much more pleasant to drive on than the UK’s motorways. Most French towns have tourist offices which you can navigate to by simply following the signs. Here, you will be able to arrange your accommodation quite easily and there is usually someone around who can help in English, if your French is not that good. However, if you are travelling on a Sunday, then it is a wise move to book your accommodation in advance, because many of these offices shut.

Once settled into your bed and breakfast, self-catering accommodation or hotel, head out and sample some of the local French culture. For many, of course, this means the local cuisine. If you are only staying for a night or two, make sure you get the best out of your visit and book a table at a good restaurant or bistro. Relax and enjoy with a glass or two of vin rouge!

Balboa Island Newport Beach

Here’s Why Balboa Island Should be Your Next Vacation Destination

Balboa Island is a small, modified island that is considered a part of Newport Beach, CA. The ocean forms a sort of moat around the island as it has no waterway access to the open ocean. 

 

The island has just under 3,000 residents and is predominantly devoted to beach-going tourists with a multitude of wonderful resorts, ocean activities and events. Of all the beaches in California, why take a trip to Balboa Island? Here are a few reasons.

There is a Wonderful Array of Activities 

 

Balboa Island offers a number of fun activities for its visitors. Kid-friendly activities include sand castle exhibits, parasailing, and good, old-fashioned beach trips. Boat tours, whale watching, and snorkeling can be fun for the whole family while more adult-oriented adventures might include boat rentals or sport fishing. Nearby, there are also easily accessible city activities which include Coney Island, restaurants, and shopping.

The Climate and Scenery are Beautiful

California is known for its perfect temperatures and sunny weather. The climate is ideal for a beach vacation, and Balboa Island has plenty of beach space to go around. The classic imagery of waving palm trees, white sand, and blue ocean waves can all be found on the shores of Balboa Island.

The houses reflect classic beach house style and only add to the beauty of the island. Californian water temperatures are the best the U.S. has to offer, and the swimming alone can make the trip worth it.

There is No Shortage of Restaurants

Balboa Island is home to just about every kind of cuisine you could ask for. Everything from American to Swiss-French is available to a Balboa Island tourist. Furthermore, if you can’t find what you want on the island, it only takes a short drive across the bridge to access mainland Newport Beach’s wide selection of dining options. Some of the best on Balboa Island are simple, homey comfort foods found in restaurants that are more than they seem.

It’s Easy to Find Family-Friendly Entertainment 

 

When you visit Balboa Island, you are not restricted to the island’s sandy beaches alone. The entirety of Newport Beach and the surrounding cities are at your disposal with all they have to offer. Live music, festivals, plays, and essentially anything else you could imagine awaits you just off the coast of Balboa Island. 

A notable mention is Once Upon an Island, where kids and parents can enjoy mermaid-themed fun. Of course, there are plenty of adult activities as well such as kite surfing, speed boat rentals, and a few welcoming bars.

While there are plenty of fun, exciting, and beautiful places to see in California, you should be sure to put Balboa Island on your list of places to visit. The quaint island vacation with easy access to city amenities is not something you can find everywhere. The family-friendly atmosphere is great for kids yet continues to provide fun for people of all ages. Whether you’re a retiree ready to start your golden years on a beach or a young family looking to play in the ocean, Balboa Island is a great place to go.

50% Off Corinthia Hotels Five Star Malta

Happy New Year to all our readers. The Resort Guide would like to extend the very best wishes for the year ahead and hopes that 2016 will be a year of exciting travel and discovery.

Having endured the wettest December on record in the UK we are already looking forward to the prospect of shaking off the winter blues and travelling to warmer, sunnier climes.

Whilst researching some of this year's hot spots we were drawn to Malta, positioned in the heart of the Mediterranean. Small but perfectly formed, Malta is stuffed with atmosphere and history. With plenty of reasonably priced direct flights from many UK airports, Malta is a long standing destination of choice for discerning British travellers who appreciate the blend of culture and modern luxury that the island offers and this is reflected by the increasing number of luxury hotels and resorts available.

Corinthia Hotels boasts two of the finest five star hotels in Malta - the secluded Palace Hotel and Spa and another overlooking St George's Bay.

Experience more of this stunning sunshine isle for less this year.

Corinthia Hotel's annual sale begins this week. By booking directly online at corinthia.com guest will be offered a 50% discount on room rates.

Corinthia Palace Hotel & Spa (Malta)

The Corinthia Palace Hotel & Spa is a peaceful haven set amid lush sub tropical gardens. 

Located opposite the President’s Palace and adjacent San Anton Gardens, just minutes from the medieval ‘silent city’ of Mdina and the island's capital of Valletta the hotel has authentic charm, history and understated elegance. 

 

Corinthia Hotel St George’s Bay

The Corinthia Hotel St George’s Bay offers stunning, panoramic views over the Mediterranean. Luxury and elegance abound in this beautiful five star hotel and is the perfect place to enjoy the glorious Maltese sunshine.

The 50% discount offer is only available when booking through the Corinthia.com website and expires on 24 March 2016, and is valid for stays until 31 December 2016. The 50% off is also valid on Corinthia’s other properties in Europe except for London where they are offering a 30% off on all room rates as part of the sale.

Horse Riding in the Algarve - Giddy Up!

The Portuguese Algarve is an ideal setting for a great horse-riding experience that is very different from riding in the UK. Rides are available on beaten tracks through the unspoilt countryside, around the high cliffs that offer amazing views over the Atlantic and in the spray of the sea along secluded beaches. The wonderful Algarve climate and friendly guides will only add to the pleasure of your rides.

There are lots of opportunities for riding alone or in small groups and all levels of expertise are catered for. Check out some of what is available here. 

Quinta Paradise Alto (QPA), Lagos – offers everything from a 1 or 2 hour accompanied ride in the beautiful countryside to a week-long horse riding experience.

• Short rides take you through well-worn tracks taking in rivers, hills and valleys with a qualified instructor
• 20 minute pony rides are available for small children
• Picnic and restaurant rides take about four hours and involve lunch in the countryside with the possibility of accompanying your horse on a swim in te river!
• 2 day, 4 day and full week immersion experiences, with accommodation at the stables included is also available.

QPA gets great reviews from its customers.

Albufeira Horse Riding Centre – offer 1 or two hour accompanied rides for all levels of expertise, including kids. The rides take you deep into the countryside, through little villages and orange groves, yet the stables are only a five minute drive from Albufeira. This attraction is great as an introduction to horse riding or as a way to pass a few hours away from the tourist areas. It gets great online reviews from many satisfied customers.

Horses in the Sun, Lagos – This riding centre is set in the New Forest Lodge, twenty minutes from Lagos and an hour from Faro. The area is a peninsular, almost surrounded by the ocean and dotted with little villages. Unusually, the centre offers carriage driving as well as horse riding with everything from short, one hour rides to full week long experiences, with on site accommodation in beautiful cottage rooms. Rides are offered through the countryside among the lakes and also along the beautiful beaches. In addition, the riding centre offers a country cooking school. Another centre that gets great reviews.

Holistic Riding Centre, Monte Velho – offers something different. Saying on site for four days or more, guests are encouraged to develop a more spiritual riding experience using yoga and meditation techniques. Guests are trained to understand the body language of the horse and are offered:

• Individual lessons to combat fear and build up a relationship with the horse
• Holistic horsemanship
• Beautiful trails and even moonlit rides
• Courses and workshops, including use of bow and arrows

The courses on offer have been described as the ‘best riding experience ever’ and consistently attract amazing reviews. 

Country Riding Centre, Silves – This purpose built centre has a great location and facilities that are second to none. Catering to all abilities, from absolute beginners onward, the centre offers gentle rides, gallops for more experienced riders and even horseback swimming in a lake. Riding lessons are also available with fully qualified instructors. The centre is more than just a stables...it includes two riding arenas and a terrace where you can relaxation in the sunshine with a wine or a coffee. When it comes to riding, this is available from 30 minute beginner sessions to a half day rides with picnic included. This is another riding experience that attracts wonderful reviews. 

Pine Trees Riding Centre - is just 20 minutes from Faro Airport, based in the ‘Golden Triangle’ between Vale do lobo. Quinta da Laga and Almancil. It specialises in pony rides for kids, as well as offering horses that suit all levels of ability and great instructors. Even the right clothing is provided! Pine Trees prides itself in getting children involved in horse-riding, using progressive, fun teaching methods...and even offers 5 and 10 hour passes at discount prices. The terrain is ideal for riding with sandy soil and lots of forest land with great views. Also on offer is an overnight camp where your kids can stay onsite with their ponies in tents...Quite an adventure! 

Tiffany’s Riding Centre, Lagos – Just 7 kilometres from the centre of Lagos, Tiffany’s is less than ten minutes’ drive from the holiday resorts of Lagos, Burgat, Budens and Praia de Luz. Rides are led by fully qualified guides with a detailed knowledge of the area and its wildlife. Rides start from 20 minute pony hacks to an all day adventure, taking in the National Forest and including a picnic beneath pine trees and in view of the spectacular mountains of Monchique. The two hour return ride passes through several tiny hamlets along the way. This is another riding opportunity that attracts five-star reviews and has many satisfied customers.

This article was provided by Mike James, an independent content writer in the travel sector working with a selection of companies – including For Airport; the complete traveller’s guide to the stunning Portuguese Algarve.

HORSE RIDING HOLIDAYS IN BEAUTIFUL BULGARIA

The mountains rise high in the distance and the sun beats down from clear blue skies. The air is fresh and clean and the only sound is that made by your horses’ hooves as he carries you clear of a line of trees and you come across a vast, sparkling lake. If that sounds like paradise to you, why not think about a horse riding holiday in unspoilt Bulgaria?

 

Horse riding holidays offer a tremendous release from the stresses and strains of modern life and can also be a great way to meet new people from different backgrounds...and where better to leave modern life behind than the unspoilt mountain ranges of the Balkans and the winding rivers and gentle lakes of Bulgaria? This is a countryside that is virtually untouched by civilisation yet it is right here in Europe, just a three hour flight from the UK. The terrain, the climate, the Balkan cuisine and wine all await...together with a warm welcome for which Bulgarians are renowned.

Below we list some interesting horse riding tours that you might wish to consider, from long eight day tours, shorter tours, one day tours and even a one-hour ride for the absolute novice. Please, in choosing your tour ensure that you use an experienced provider and are adequately insured against the risk of accident...and please use the correct riding safety equipment. 

 

Long Tours

The Orpheus Trail

This ride commences about 90 minutes from Sofia Airport and is a six day ride through the Rhodope Mountains and deep valleys, passing through magnificent rock formations, thick forests and beautiful meadows. Stop offs are in remote villages with local people offering hospitality, food and wines. The tour commences in the oldest city in Europe, Plovdiv.

The High Balkan Trail 

 

This ride takes us high into the highest Balkan grasslands where horses run wild. You will feel like a cowboy out on the trail with full day rides that are intended for experienced riders. At various stages it is necessary to walk the horses up or down steep inclines, so riders must have an appropriate level of fitness. 

 

Balkan Rides (Stationary Holiday) 

 

This holiday allocates accommodation near to the horses and riders take different trails each day.

This holiday has a set, 8 day itinerary commencing with settling into the accommodation and taking a short, three hour ride to begin with and working up to longer rides. Highlights include a riding trip to a monastery for lunch, picnic lunches by the side of a river and a lunch at the Vidima Waterfalls. Tours like these allow the riders to really build up a relationship not only with the horses but also with their fellow riders. Aside from the riding, there are opportunities to visit local areas of interest, historical monuments and museums...really taking in the culture of this amazing region that seems to be from another age.

The Thracian Trail

For history lovers, this one-week tour takes in several Roman and Thracian ruins as well as several historic cities. Plovdiv has been designated one of the 2019 European Capitals of Culture, Hissar is an ancient, walled town which has many Roman ruins and Koprivshtitsa is full of brightly coloured houses and cobbled streets. Starting in the Sredna Gora Mountains the tour takes a route through forests in which small towns and villages are hidden. Then the tour comes across hot springs that were used for bathing in Roman times. This is a tour for more experienced riders.

Sunny Beach

Many visitors to Bulgaria spend the entirety of their stay enjoying the sea and sand of Sunny Beach. But would you care for a change of scenery for a day or two of your stay? Kosharitca Village is only 5 kilometres from Sunny Beach and here you can ride horses for 1 or 2 hours along a secluded beach. The horses used here are very sedate and can be ridden by very inexperienced riders. The prices charged are very reasonable and include collection and return to the resort.

Article provided by Penguin Car Hire, a trusted European car hire firm with many options and locations across Bulgaria.

Enjoy Beach Life & Discover More in Cuba

Cuba is the least commercialised country amongst the Caribbean islands.

Ten hours on an international flight may not be that appealing, particularly when you know there are places you’d like to visit in Europe, but it’s a fantastic adventure to see this part of the world – largely untouched by mass commercialisation – enjoy it before it changes!

What’s On Offer

Where to start? Well, it has over 300 beaches, and they are magnificent. Fine grained, pale sand dotted with palm trees and on the commercially developed beaches of places like Varadero, you’ll find the full range of water activities, including scuba diving, deep sea fishing, sailing and water-ski-ing. Varadero was a quiet peninsula until the 1940’s, when the hotel magnets moved in and began building a holiday empire and activity base, in what is now the most developed part of the island. It’s ideal for anyone who likes the 24 hour party life! With over 50% of all the hotel accommodation on Cuba, hundreds of restaurants, bars and nightclubs – it’s a full-on holiday resort.  If you like to mix it up a bit, you can visit the neaby towns of Cardenas and Martanzas for a culture and history “hit”. There are some less high octane pastimes in Varadero too, such as cave diving or taking a trip to the protected area of the Peninsula, which is an established wildlife reserve.

If you are looking for a bespoke, tailor made holiday to discover the best of Cuba, Esencia Experiences  have acquired years of inside knowldege to create the perect itinery for you

Trinidad – Picturesque Faded Glory

If a calm pace and a bit atmosphere is more your thing, then a visit to the historic colonial town of Trinidad is essential, since it’s one of the most beautiful towns in Cuba. It was the third Spanish settlement to be established in Cuba around 1544 and in the 18th and 19th century, the town became rich as a result of their productive sugar plantations in the nearby Valley de los Ingenios (Valley of the Sugar Mills) which you can still visit. The town has managed to preserve much of the building work carried out during it’s heyday,  and it’s great to wander through the cobblestoned streets, see the pastel coloured houses, old Chevrolets and impressive church buildings.

The bell tower of the Museo Nacional de la Lucha Contra Bandidos offers views of the town and surrounding countryside. and if you go into the central Plaza Mayor you’ll see several museums set in old colonial buildings. In the evenings the the local Squares are alive with traditional Cuban music and dance. Leisure pursuits are slow paced and there are plenty of activity centres offering hiking or horse riding and the countryside is spectacular.  If none of that appeals, there are always the relaxing sands of Playa Ancon to snooze on!

Laid Back Beach Life

Cayo Coco is a 15 mile long sandbar linked to the mainland by a causeway or you can always catch a short internal flight from Havana. If you travel by road, stop at Parador la Silla, and you will see the astonishing sight of hundreds of flamingos grouped along the sand bars and some spectacular views, before driving on to Cayo Coco. Castro wanted to develop the islands of Cuba  for visitors – he knew they wouldn’t mind paying for the priveledge of being in this sumptious part of the country! There are only a few hotels here, and whilst they might cover some acreage, they don’t ruin the sky line. The people are easy going and if you are lucky, you’ll have the Bus Driver who will happily stop the  bus on the side of the road, find a coconut palm and cut you down a fresh coconut – the fresh, clear coconut milk is a real life saver on a hot day!  There are old fashioned glass bottomed boats that visit the coral coves and since- Cayo Coco is also situated on the worlds second biggest coral reef,  it’s a great base for scub divers. This is a place for a real chill-out holiday – no stress, great food, white sand and clear blue seas.

If you want to see Havana too, check out the range of  excursions available. You should be able to find an over night stay in the city where you can visit the Cigar Factory, visit a rum tasting, and let your hair down in a full-on Cuban nightclub.The city is brimming with intriguing monuments – and with the sun blazing down on the old city Squares, it’s easy to find yourself in the middle of an impromptu dance session! Street sales are everywhere, and yes, music is very much part of the scene in Havana, so it’s a lively, vibrant place to visit.

What does the south of France have to offer golf enthusiasts?

Whether you’ve been considering it for a while, or you’ve just decided to go on a whim, choosing the perfect location for your next holiday can be difficult, particularly if you’re not exactly sure that the location you have your eyes on will be suited to your needs and interests. However, if you’re a fan of both golfing and beautiful coastlines and stunning, yet not overwhelming weather, we highly recommend you visit the south of France for some of the most breath-taking golf courses and resorts in Europe.

 

What does the south of France actually have to offer golf enthusiasts? We’ll take a look at some of the most popular golfing locations and tourist spots in the south of France, to see what floats your boat when it comes to teeing off. 

Golf Resorts and Hotels

The south of France is famous for having golf specific resorts and hotels. All golfing, all the time! Forget poolside leisure, walking along the coastline, watching a movie or anything drab like that. These golfing resorts are purpose built for only the most dedicated and it really shows. The Royal Mougins Golf Resort and the Chateau De La Begude are both fantastic 4 star resorts located in the rolling countryside with fields and courses as far as the eye can see. Simply beautiful.

 

Private Gold Clubs

It pays to have connections in high places, as most people find and the private golf clubs of the south of France are no exception. There are some fantastic 36-hole courses that you will find it difficult to get into, including the Four Seasons Terre Blanche and Prince de Provence but if you ever get the opportunity these clubs should not be missed. Provence is known as the premier region for golf clubs and Vidauban contains one of the country’s most golf clubs, open to invite only (we’re afraid).

The courses are certainly worth the money, covering aw-inspiring lakes, beautiful greens and a backdrop to rival that of many of Scotland’s golf courses as many of them have idyllic views of the mountains behind them. Unfortunately whether or not you’ll be able to book one is entirely down to luck.

 

 

Coastal Courses

You might be a little unlucky in terms of high winds but it is worth it for the views. The south of France is home to a number of coastal courses that makes the best use of the sparkling French coastline, from the outskirts of Montpellier to Saint Cyprien. Coastal golf courses provide an extra difficulty for those looking for a challenge, so why not test yourself by checking out those beautiful ranges?

High-Altitude Courses

Taking advantage of the stunning range of different scenic locations throughout the south of France the Chamonix Golf Club is an idyllic high-altitude course which overlooks the Mont-blanc mountain range. The courses are varied, offering a number of challenges including streams and the rough Arve River, which has to be crossed every now and then during the 18-hole course.

 

Whether you’re looking at saving some money by renting out a gorgeous classical south of France villa in order to spend some time relaxing while you hit the golf courses, or you want to go all out with one of the many golfing resorts and hotels dotted around, the south of France is the perfect location to get your golfing game back on track. Choose from a wide selection of different courses with beautiful backdrops, during the summer or in the spring time to catch the delicious European weather, or later on the year if you prefer it a little milder. It is completely up to you. 

 

Article provided by SouthFrance Holiday Villas; a specialist holiday villa-booking agent with a ‘hand-picked and tested’ policy. Established in 2000, the company now proudly maintains a portfolio of over 500 stunning properties – serving customers across three continents.

A Day Trip in York

Planning a day trip in York can be fun and interesting because it is a city with rich historic background, which dates back to almost 2,000 years. Looking to explore its ancient historic roots then you can plan a visit to some of the most world's renowned museums that surround this beautiful city. A peek into its former inhabitants suggests that it was founded by the Romans in AD 71 and was named Eboracum. During the historic era, several influential figures became connected with the city such as Constantine the Great. York was of one the two capitals of the Roman Empire and Septimus Severus governed it for two years
 

York has also been home the Anglo Saxons, The Vikings who renamed it Jorvik during their reign. There are several highlights to consider the next time you plan a day trip to York. You can include some intriguing and fun activities, which will leave you mesmerised and captivated in the city's attractions.

 

York Minster and the Shambles

It is one of the largest medieval cathedrals present throughout the Northern Europe. It is an awe-inspiring place to visit as you can marvel at the ancient Roman columns in the crypt to the stunning views of the city as you stand in the central tower. 

There are different exhibitions and activities, which allow tourists and visitors an once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see of its objects at a close range, for instance 'The Orb' exhibition. Whereas 'Revealing York Minister' allows you to browse through the undiscovered treasures of the cathedral. You can also visit the building's most unique sites giving you the opportunity to capture its amazing history of Romans, Vikings and Saxons

 

National Railway Museum

The museum sheds some light on the fascination and significance of railways during the 19th century, which played an important part on York's Renaissance. You can marvel at this amazing collection of mechanical wonder, which is situated just behind the Victorian station and the legendary engines such as Mallard and the Flying Scotsman. The museum provides interactive displays that are informative, mini train rides for the children and model railways, which you can admire. They also have an amazing outdoor play area in case your kids get bored. 

Make the most of your day and travel to York by rail. Rail tickets could be bought from the North’s biggest rail operator, Northern Rail 

 

Jorvik Viking Centre

The Jorvik Viking Centre provides a robust sensory experience to visitors of how a thriving 19th century Viking city looked, felt and smelled like. It is constructed on Britain's most thrilling archaeological findings and the unearthed ruins of original workshops. Several of the imitated houses and backyards provide a modern interactive display, which takes you back to an ancient world that once existed on this landscape

 

York Races

It is impossible to visit York and not attend one of its races. The racecourse at York almost dates back to 280 years and is the heart of York's rich horse racing culture. You can enjoy you sunny weathers marvelling at the manicured lawns, bars & restaurants, listed buildings, as you dress up prim and proper for an exciting day at the racecourse.

Make the most of Marrakech

With gorgeous sunny weather and high temperatures from April to September, Marrakech is one of Morocco’s major tourist attractions. With so much to do and see there is something available there for the entire family. Whether you’re in search of art and culture, you want a few moments of peace and rest or you’re just there for the food, Marrakech has it all. 

Here, award-winning hotel Riad el Zohar take a look at the top ten things to do when holidaying in Marrakech and don’t worry, they’re all family friendly!

Classical Art at the Marrakech Museums

Open 9 – 6:45 Wednesday – Monday, The Dar Si museum provides a unique insight into classical Moroccan life, with a stellar collection of crafts, woodwork, leather and weapons that have been rescued from the abandoned dwellings of old. The Maison de la Photographie is where you want to go to see around 8,000 photographs of 1870-1950’s Marrakech. It is a beautiful look into the ancient city. 

Wander through the markets of the Medina

Marketplaces are amazing places to get lost in and the souks of Marrakech are no different. Wander through a huge range of stalls selling fruit, hot food, craft work, handmade children’s toys and a whole host of souvenirs ready to be taken home. Certainly a trip for the day before the plane home to get some last minute gifts for the family!

Sample the delicacies of Morocco

No trip abroad will be complete without trying a few of the home dishes. Marrakech is no different, with restaurants and cafes dotted all around the city as well as stalls in the marketplace selling hot and cold snacks alike. You might have to search a bit for the best deals, but the food is certainly worth paying a little extra for if you don’t want to wait.

Take a break in a Riad

Riads are refurbished classical Moroccan homes with all the modern luxuries we have come to know and enjoy. Like a modern version of a traditional Moroccan hotel, Riads can be themed to their local area, often come with an accompanying pool and roof terrace and are very fancy for the price. Worth it for an evening or two in an authentic Moroccan hotel.

Visit the eerie Saadian Tombs

Saadian Sultan Ahmed al-Mansour ed-Dahbi imported Italian marble to make the glorious mausoleum known as the Chamber of the 12 Pillars. Neglected until the start of the 20^th century, these chilling tombs are remnants of a rich Sultan desperate to immortalise himself in the world.

Peace and quiet in the Jardin Majorelle

A stark contrast to the warm sunny yellows and reds of the rest of Marrakech, the Jardin Majorelle is a beautiful green garden open to all. Boasting over 300 plant species from five different continents, the café provides a beautiful view of the garden over snacks and coffee. Those with a bit of spending money will enjoy the garden’s boutique.

Get lost in the city streets

Just wandering the streets of Marrakech can be an adventure in itself. Due to its huge array of twisting alleyways, curves and corners and little side-streets, it almost seems like a labyrinth of wonder to explore.

Find a solitary café

There are a huge number of cheap local cafes and restaurants if you know where to look. Straying a little ways off the beaten path will net you snacks or nice lunches at a good discount from the main street, although you might want to invest in the help of a local tour guide to find the best places to eat.

Snap some pictures of the sights

Marrakech is a city with intense cultural history. With the old Riads, the stretching classical buildings and the beautiful mosques of Marrakech, your camera will certainly have its work cut out. The Koutoubia Mosque is Marrakech’s most famous symbol and while non-Muslims may not enter this place of worship, its exterior still creates a stunning vision when surrounded by the other buildings in the Medina.

Take a lesson in Moroccan cooking

If the snacks of Marrakech have tickled your taste buds, why not have a go at cooking them for yourself? A number of riads provide cooking courses for their residents, giving tourists a hand at the reigns at preparing and cooking their very own Moroccan dish. 

With so many delights in store for those wishing to go to Marrakech, it is no surprise that it is an extremely popular tourist destination. With sun, sands and a plethora of activities for adults and kids alike, open up your eyes to the delights of a Marrakech holiday today!

Family Holiday Destinations - Another Five Fantastic Suggestions

Finding time for both yourselves and the kids can be hard nowadays. What with the latest technologies making us constantly available to everyone in the world, it can be a rare moment when we all sit down to eat dinner together without the television on or someone away with the fairies on their phone.

However holidays are a time for families. A time when the devices are put away and the sun cream is slathered on for a weekend away or for a week or two of personal bonding time. There are countless locations to which you can whisk yourself away and get a break from the rest of the world and you will certainly have your ideas of the perfect holiday! However we’ll be having a look at some of the best family friendly vacation places, so that there is something suitable for everyone, even the little ones!

Euro-Disney

 An obvious choice for children, if your kids happen to be Disney fans, there is nothing easier than hopping onto the EuroStar for a few days at EuroDisney. With a range of hotels to choose from, their own Disney Village complete with shops and restaurants and two parks to choose from, Euro Disney is a slice of Walt Disney Mania without the huge price tag that accompanies going to California or Florida. 

Legoland

  With dozens of activities to choose from and a whole world to explore, Legoland is a theme park full of wonder for the kids to enjoy. Legoland also has a number of fun and crafty rides and slides for the adults, with ‘Miniland’ where you can walk among amazing model scenes from around Europe and the USA.

For the more educationally inclined, there are a number of learning workshops that bring lego to life teaching science and engineering. Or for those looking to set their imaginations wild, the Imagination Factory allows children to build anything they want with the Lego free play area.

The Medinas of Marrakech

Taking a step away from big brand names and moving onto more traditional, cultural holiday methods, we have a look at the beautiful medinas of Marrakech. Sporting glorious sunny weather and packed streets with all manner of goodies and souvenirs to feast your eyes on, Marrakech makes an ideal family holiday for those who want to learn a little bit more about Moroccan culture.

Whether you are looking at seeing the local sights, you want to tour the various museums and markets in search of Morrocan culture, or you just want to relax by the pool in one of Marrakech’s traditional Riads, Marrakech has something for everyone on a family holiday. See the popular Riad el Zohar courtyard hotel for details of accommodation.

Costa Caribe Aquatic Park

 This fantastic aquatic park of PortAventura boasts a number of themed rides that has everything you need to create a fantastic day out with the kids. With large water slides, fun fast rapids and a lazy river rafting experience, whether you love hanging out by the big slides or you just like to relax on a rubber ring, there is something for everyone.

The Aquatic Park is set among palm trees and cheerful reggae music, with a number of delightful bars and restaurants to choose from if you ever get peckish. Plus the kids will love the Caribbean themed playground which offers sound and safe fun. 

The Canary Islands

Choose from Tenerife, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria and Lanzarote for sun filled days, cool, breezy evenings and colourful resorts for kids of all ages. Whether you are looking for a quiet holiday in the sun in Fuerteventura, or you are looking for a more family friendly resort in Playa Blanca, Lanzarote, each of the islands boasts its own unique character and charm. See Hello Canary Islands for more details on booking your perfect Canary Island holiday.

Wherever you choose to go on holiday, it is important to have fun and enjoy your time together as a family. Your kids may get annoyed with you, particularly if you are putting a cap on their internet time, but they will be all the happier for a chance to get away from it all. Plus, just imagine the hilarious memories you’ll be creating to share on Instagram for when you get home!

Visit Lisbon - A city that marries city and beach life

Lisbon, best known for its inexpensive seafood meals, faded colonial architecture from Portugal’s international empire and throwback cable cars, makes for one of the best destinations to visit in Europe. Being a coastal city, Lisbon marries city and beach life better than any other place in the world.

This small city has its own charm particularly in the summer months. As you head towards the beach on begonia blossomed streets, you will witness cars with surf boards stacked on top as people make their way to the beachy suburbs of Cascais and Estoril, a short 20 minute drive from the city center. Either go skin deep in the cerulean blue dome or get some sand between your toes whilst enjoying the breeze of the salty Atlantic air, or maybe you can just enjoy a plate of garlicky ameijoas (seashells) with a tumbler of brain-freeze cold lager.

The social life of the city is bursting with everything from electronic music to philosophical conferences to free-form jazz. For those who think Lisbon is only about the traditional Fado, a quick reality check will show that there’s much more going on. In the last couple of years, many innovative music spots have popped up around Lisbon. Be ready to find intimate supper clubs to warehouse dance halls. These new generation hangouts are enriching the Portuguese capital’s sonic spectrum where music aficionados and bands of all styles converge.

There is something very unique about Lisbon, as you visit the city you will witness century-old wooden trams and iron funiculars that still lurch and rumble their way among the seven steep hills over which the city lies. If you’re up for a wander around the city streets there’s no getting bored in Lisbon thanks to intricately patterned cobblestones under your feet and the magnificent architecture. European big capitals like London, Berlin, Paris and Madrid may have blockbuster art collections, but Lisbon's inhabitants have access to their own rare panoply. Lisbonites have a sharp eye for design and a great place to witness this is the ‘Gulbenkian’ Foundation, check it out!

The night- life in Lisbon can outlast Madrid’s. The roving nocturnal flow only seems to end when dawn rises over the Tagus River, making the city a libertine’s dream. You can find all of your main action in Bairro Alto where more than 250 appealing bars line besides graffiti-plastered walls. The city is rarely too hot or cold and makes for a perfect all-year round destination. However much of the city seems to shut down in August when local restaurants and bars close and majority of inhabitants prefer to escape the steamy city for the more cooler Atlantic shores.

Thnks to Corinthia Hotels for supplying this feature about Lisbon

White Water Rafting In Clear Creek

In recent times, white water rafting has truly been gaining in popularity. That's because it's an exhilarating adventure which allows individuals to connect with nature. These people are one with the wilderness. While white water rafting can be done in all kinds of places around the globe, Clear Creek, CO is definitely the most ideal location. In fact, there are a lot of benefits that come with going white water rafting in Clear Creek.

It's a Great Workout

White water rafting is known to give you a great physical workout. That's because you are making your way through the tough and harsh rapids. You have to paddle to keep yourselves afloat and move with the current, which in turn exercises the whole body. When white water rafting in Clear Creek, CO, you are really testing your strength and endurance in order to conquer the river rapids. In particular, the arms and legs get an intense workout since they are the main parts of your body used to push your boats downstream.

A Real Sense of Adventure

There is no outdoor thrill greater than white water rafting in Clear Creek, CO. When you go river rafting, you get to take in the beautiful scenery that surrounds you. This includes the wilderness, historical landmarks, scenic backdrops, twisting rivers and rolling rapids. This really is the experience of a lifetime for those that want to test their adventurous side.

A Rush of Adrenaline

When you go white water rafting in Clear Creek, CO, you can rest assured that you will be getting an adrenaline fueled experience. What's so great about adrenaline is that with it, you won't even notice how physically tired you are while rafting. Instead, you are completely focused and centered on the heart-pounding excitement of making your way through the quickly moving rapids. When you're finally done river rafting, you'll feel truly accomplished.

Relieves the Stresses of Everyday Life

White water rafting in Clear Creek, CO is often looked upon by individuals because of its power to relieve stress and tension. That's because it's an activity that delivers an invigorating escape from the realities of everyday life. With the breathtaking scenery and all the nature in reach, rafters can truly relax. This gives them a chance to leave their busy city lives behind and instead enjoy what Clear Creek, CO has to offer them.

Although the resort allows visitors to "leave it all behind" there will be times of course when essential chores need to be done - paying outstanding bills and settling accounts for example.  This can still be acheived without the hassel of going into a local bank. With excellent internet connectivity it is quick and easy to make a fast bank transfer to keep your accounts in good order thus giving you more time to hit the rapids.

Chance to Bond with Friends and Family

White water rafting has a reputation for being the perfect chance to bond and connect with your friends and family. That's because this activity works to build team skills. After all, white water rafting is a group experience. It cannot be done with just one person. This team activity really draws people close together. There's a healthy camaraderie that is developed with white water rafting in Clear Creek, CO.
While white water rafting in Clear Creek, CO may seem like just your average activity. It's definitely not. River rafting is an amazing task to take part in as it offers physical, social and psychological benefits to everyone involved. It doesn't matter how old you are, this is an activity that will leave you much better off than when you first started.

Ryan Thomas for Rocky Mountain Whitewater Rafting. Rocky Mountain Whitewater Rafting has guided thousands of whitewater rafting trips on Clear Creek and throughout Colorado.

Save a bundle with a package holiday

For many people, the package holiday is a relic of the past, something to be remembered fondly but with no real desire to bring it back. This isn’t the case for many people, and there is a great deal to be said for the fact that the package is still a vital component of life for many folk. You may wonder why in the day and age of budget flights and online discounts why anyone would be looking to enjoy a package holiday, but it needs to be said that there are a number of benefits that arise from booking a package holiday. It may not be exactly what you are looking for, but for plenty of people, a package holiday is the ideal way to get a break from their normal life.

While on the surface you may think that booking every component of your holiday separately will be cheaper, this isn’t always the case. There is often a cost saving to be made in buying a package holiday and this can see you save money overall. The cost of your flights and then getting to your accommodation and then your accommodation can all add up, and this is before you think about how you want to eat and drink or what sort of social activities that you want to enjoy. Some package holidays provide you with everything you could look for in one bundle, and this means that it is often the most affordable way to book your holiday.

Package holidays offer a stress free solution

Another major reason for booking a package holiday is that it is a stress free solution. Removing all of the work and stress from booking a holiday is a big thing for most people. Being able to arrange everything in one go is a massive boon to most people and when it comes to making life easier, booking a package holiday is the simplest way to get away. There is a wide range of options available to choose from when it comes to package holidays and you can rest assured that no matter what your hobbies or interests are, there will be something that is perfect for you.

There is a massive range of options to choose from when it comes to package holidays, with these being some of the most popular package holiday trips available to choose from:

• Buckerell Lodge Hotel Christmas
• The Magic of Andalusia
• Machu Picchu and the Galapagos Islands
• Jizz in Malta
• Secrets of Mediterranean Spain
• Jewels of the Emerald Isle
• Crete and the Minoan Culture for solo travellers
• Ballroom and Latin American Dancing in Cyprus
• Artistic Collections of Dorset
• Amsterdam and the Golden Rain of Dutch Art

The diversity of those packages should ensure that there is something for everyone, no matter what you enjoy in life.

The package holiday can also ensure that you get to see everything that you want to. Rather than having to arrange public transport or hire a car to see all of the sites, a package holiday can provide you with the perfect way to get around, taking you directly to where you want to be. This provides a great deal of comfort and makes life so much easier.

Get better value for money

You will also find that opting for a package holiday provides you with better services and better value for money. When everything is booked in one go, you will often find that there is a chance to get the better resorts. These resorts and destinations are keen to have their rooms booked out in advance, which means that they are keen to work with package holiday operators. Booking independently may mean you have to settle for second class service or accommodation at times, so if you are keen to relax while on your break, booking a package holiday will offer peace of mind and confidence.

There is also a lot to be said for the level of safety that comes with package holidays. If you are booking trips yourself, you may not know if a certain area is safe or not, so booking with a reliable and reputable provider gives you one less thing to worry about. This is even more important if you are travelling with loved ones.
When it comes to the top holiday of choice, everyone will have their own ideas about what sort of break is best for their needs. However, knowing that there is an opportunity to find the right deal at the right price is a great comfort for most folk.

Andrew Reilly is a freelance writer with a focus on news stories and consumer interest articles. He has been writing professionally for 9 years but has been writing for as long as he can care to remember. When Andrew isn't sat behind a laptop or researching a story, he will be found watching a gig or a game of football.

Family Fun in Abu Dhabi

A trip to the United Arab Emirates’ second largest city Abu Dhabi is an exciting and fun experience for all. So what are the five best family activities for those visiting Abu Dhabi?

Abu Dhabi, the second largest city in the United Arab Emirates, sits on the coast of the Gulf Peninsula. A modern city in an exotic location, it’s a popular tourist destination for families. 

It is also home to many workers from overseas who service the construction, leisure and of course oil businesses.  Taking advantage of tax free salaries many UK expats choose to protect their income by opening an offshore bank account and depositing their income in them for safety.

So when visiting Abu Dhabi, what are five great family activities to take part in?

Al Ain in Abu Dhabi offers a selection of opportunities for family fun. The second largest city in the Abu Dhabi Emirate and also known as ‘The Garden City,’ it provides a number of activities to excite the little ones, while still ensuring Mam and Dad will have fun.

One of the best family activities in the area is Al Ain Zoo and Aquarium, situated at the foothills of the Jebel Hafeet Mountains. The Zoo, which contains a cathouse and reptile house also has a selection of animals at home in the Arabian environment such as the Oryx and the Lechure.

Notably, it keeps a near extinct White Lion, one of only 200 of the creatures remaining in the world. Even more unusually, it also hosts a number of mechanical dinosaur models called the ‘Dinosaur Trail.’ http://alain-zoo.com/

However, if you’re family are more inclined towards action, then Hili Fun City may be more up your street. The amusement park which was referred to as the Disneyland of the GCC has a large selection of amusement rides for families.

Varying from adrenaline inducing roller-coasters to the more sedate carousels, the park is a great place to engage in family activities. It also offers a selection of shops and it prides itself on the fact it is an eco-conscious amusement park.

Corniche, offers a more natural form of entertainment, situated along Abu Dhabi’s spectacular waterfront; it winds along from the Sheraton Hotel to the Hilton Hotel along the coastline. Lined with trees and parks, Corniche is one of the most picturesque places in Abu Dhabi.

While visiting, lie under one of the many umbrellas on one of the beaches in the area, or swim in one of the beautiful life-guard manned pools. Corniche is also a great place for a family walk, bike ride or rollerblade and in addition offers children’s playgrounds and beach volleyball courts. 

Ferrari World on Yas Island, in Abu Dhabi offers more petrol orientated thrills. The world’s largest indoor theme park, it’s themed around the Italian car maker and boasts the world’s fastest rollercoaster - The Formula Rossa. If touching near 150mph speeds doesn’t suit you, the park also has junior go-carts and junior driving schools for children as well as less hasty adult rides for non-speed freaks.

Finally, for a more traditional Abu Dhabi experience why not go and see a camel race at the Al Wathba Race Track. An experience unique to the Middle-East, camel racing is sure to intrigue adults and children alike. Visit the races from Winter-time, until they end with the Annual Camel Racing Festival in April.

An Authors Trail Through Stockholm

Film and book related tourism have long provided people with a great reason to travel. Stockholm has become the latest in a great line of tourist destinations to benefit from a fan’s desire to visit the inspirational locations behind a story. 

The Millennium Trilogy

Steig Larsen’s summer time hit, The Millennium trilogy, features Lisbeth Salander and Mikael Blomkvist’s adventures around the streets of the Swedish capital and the release of the Hollywood movie remake only reignites interest in visits to Stockholm.

Stockholm self-guide walks

The city has not been shy on promoting its place in the Millennium Trilogy tales and the Stockholm Museum organises guided tours of the city, pointing out the places mentioned in the books and visited by the film crews. There are also a number of books and websites that have published a list of Stockholm’s tourist attractions that feature in the book and allow tourists to take their own self-guided tour of the city streets. 

Larsen’s locations

Stockholm is based on 14 linked islands, criss-crossed with bridges. The island district of Sondermalm is where Larsen lived and features prominently in his stories. Walking around Sondermalm’s streets you can pass Salander’s scruffy apartment in Lundgatan and her luxurious suite in Fiskgatan 9. Blomkvist also stays in this area in the top floor flat of Bellmansgatan 1.

Sondermalm is also where the offices of Millennium can be found at Gotgatan or the Seven 11 where you can buy your own Billy Pan Pizza. If you are looking for somewhere to relax then the KaffeBar Café now called Mellaqvist’s in Hornsgatan is one of Blomkvist’s favourites, while you might catch the Evil Fingers playing in the Pub Kvarnen on Tjarhovsgatan. 

Stockholm is not a particularly rainy place, especially compared with northern Sweden.  Visitors from dry climates should expect to encounter some rain throughout the year and should pack accordingly. There is a wide selection of waterproof clothing, walking boots and outdoor clothing available to order online at Cotswold Outdoors.  

Stockholm Attractions

Although whether you are a fan of Larsen’s works or not, Stockholm provides an interesting and evocative place to visit and you can understand why he based his novels here. There is plenty to see in the usual museum and gallery circuit, points of interest such as the Royal Palace with its pomp and ceremony and the beautiful Stockholm Cathedral.

Events like the dazzling Christmas markets, smooth Jazz festival or the 22-hour midnight cruise around many of the islands that make up the archipelago of Stockholm make for a fun visit to this popular destination.