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The Canary Islands discussed

October 11, 2011 //
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The Canary Islands are a truly luxurious set of islands off the coast of Morocco. These Spanish islands each offer something different to the visitor, as described below.

Lanzarote
The island of Lanzarote is an island also offers nice beaches and great weather and is also a good family resort, although should probably be avoided by any party animals. The landscape and history are perhaps the best features.

Gran Canaria
Gran Canaria is the second most populous of the Canary Islands and offers perhaps the most diversity in its attractions. The capital of the island is the largest city in the Canaries and boasts some picturesque and charming architecture, as do many of the villages on the island. There are also stunning beaches and sand dunes and a very popular nightlife. The island is touted as a gay capital, but in reality it is not noticeable.

Fuerteventura
This is the second largest of the Canary Islands and is one of the sleepiest. The island is a popular resort for the older generations but also appeals to couples and families who seek a quit island on which to relax. The island boasts some beautiful landscape which is fun to explore.

Tenerife
Tenerife is the largest of the Canary Islands and has the highest visitor numbers. This island has various different faces, including the notorious nightlife. Indeed, of all the Canary Islands Tenerife is perhaps the best known for its partying opportunities, with thousands of people flocking here each year to enjoy the famous veronicas strip. The island is also a great family destination as it has a number of beaches and family activities to enjoy.

You might also be interested in:

Canary Islands

Canary Islands

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Categories Islands, Travel, Travel Writing

Best Places for Viewing Whales

August 16, 2011 //
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Whale in the sea

Whales are one of the most fascinating creatures on the planet and viewing them in their natural environment is a truly inspiring experience. There are various locations in the world where you can enjoy this experience, and below is a brief guide to some.

Alaska

I would rank this as the most romantic place to view whales, with the reason being that the surroundings are just so different and beautiful. Humpbacks and Orcas can often be sees in these parts, and whilst you can sometimes spot them from the land, the best way to maximise your experience is to take a boat trip. Whales only visit these parts during certain parts of the year so be sure to check before you book your trip.

California

There are many great sea creatures which can be found off the coast of California, with dolphins and whales being the most common. The whales in this area often seem to revel in human contact and will often approach the tour boats to provide a simply stunning view of them. The most common type of whale to see here is the grey whale.  

Scotland

For those from the UK, there is no need to travel across the world in order to see marine life, you can see some intriguing species off the northern coasts of Scotland. Near to the Isle of Skye you will often see minke whales as well as dolphins and basking sharks.

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Categories Adventure, Outdoors, Sports, Travel, USA

Best Ski Resorts in Europe

July 11, 2011 //
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Skiing Holidays

Skiing - Europe

It may be easy to list down various popular ski resorts in the US, but what about the best ski resorts in Europe? Below are some of the popular ski resorts you can explore in European destinations.

Galtur, Austria

This is one of the best resorts not due to extensive resources and fashionable bars, but due to the fact that it is quite the opposite. The resort has an abundance of snow and allows one to really open up and enjoy the space which comes as a result of many visitors to the area seeking the more conventional resources available elsewhere in the area.

St Anton, Austria

At this resort you can find some of the most challenging slopes in the country and is great for those who want to push their skills that little bit further. There are also easier slopes for those who have a less advanced skill set.

Tignes, France

This resort boasts some of the best high altitude slopes in Europe and has a great network of cars to take you around to the different sections. The snow is vast and there is plenty of space, so the beginners can spread out away from those who have more experience.

Cortina D’Ampezzo, Italy

One of the reasons that this resort is so fantastic is the glorious scenery which surrounds it. The slopes are very spread out meaning that there is plenty of space to hone your skills. The views of the landscape from the bars and restaurants are amazing.

You can also find amazing alternatives by going skiing in Sicily, Italy where you won’t get your typical skiing adventure but one with a unique twist for those looking for more than just the usual stuff.


 

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Categories Adventure, France, Outdoors, Sports, Travel

Great African Safaris

June 26, 2011 //
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African Safari

African Safari

To go on safari is one of the most fulfilling experiences you can ever have and there is a whole array of great African safaris you can choose from.

The opportunity to experience the wonder of wildlife in its natural environment is one that is hard to match. Below are some of the best African safari experiences that the continent has to offer.

Tanzania

Wildebeest in Serengeti

Tanzania Safari

Some of the greatest African safaris in the world can be found in Tanzania which includes the Serengeti, Zanzibar and Kilimanjaro. The wildebeest migration which takes place each year in the Serengeti is genuinely remarkable and should definitely put this location towards the top of your travel list.

Zimbabwe

Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe Safari

Hwangi National Park, which is located in Zimbabwe, is one of the most popular safari locations in Africa.

Visiting Zimbabwe on safari includes other interesting sites, whereby you can also take in the Victoria Falls, one of nature’s breath-taking masterpieces that’s sure to “take you by storm”…

Kenya

Impalas - Kenya game reserve

Kenya Safari

Kenya is famous for its game viewing opportunities and the glorious scenery which compliments and confounds the safari experience. Kenya is often regarded as the home of the safari and the place to go to get the original experience.

The knowledge and passion of the local tour guides here is inspiring and they offer great insights into many of Africa’s great safari destinations.

South Africa

Kruger Nat. Park, RSA

South Africa Safari

For viewing prides of lions and walking safaris Kruger National Park is hard to match. The same park is also famous for its kids activities and the way that you can really interact with the nature as opposed to passing straight through it.

Eastern Cape Safari Park is also great and represents a great opportunity to view elephants in their natural environment.

So when it comes to finding great African safaris, one thing’s for sure, you’ll be spoilt for choice—and in many ways!

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Categories Adventure, Africa, Travel

10 Sights to see before you die

June 9, 2011 //
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Your time on this earth is very short and paid leave is even shorter ! We have looked at some of the best available holiday deals 2011 and compiled a list of our 10 favourite sights to see before you die, so what are you waiting for ?

Always a great subject for debate as we all want something different in life, here are our top 10 suggestions.

See a Space Shuttle Launch in Florida – With the space program being shelved this is an “I was there” moment that should be near the top because it is an awesome sight and a very limited opportunity before it becomes history.

Great Wall of China

Great Wall of China

See the Northern Lights in Norway – A great adventure awaits you in Norway and there is very little  to compare in nature that is more spectacular to behold in the skies than the Northern Lights

The Great Wall of China – One of the great myths of our time about seeing the wall from space, well if you can’t get on the space shuttle to check out the theory why not trek the Great Wall and see it for yourself.

See the Grand Canyon – An amazing spectacle and the scale of the region can only be witnessed to be believed. Even better, you can combine your trip with a visit to Sin City aka Las Vegas and maybe even win back the cost of you holiday in the casino, or maybe not !

Rio Carnival – Brazil

You probably won’t see more sights of outstanding natural beauty in one place anywhere else in the world than in Rio di Janeiro ! This is Notting Hill with sun and a lot more atmosphere and the sight of the carnival in full flow and the chance to join in makes this a must do adventure.

Everest Mountain – Nepal

How cool would it be to say that you have been to and seen the fabled mountain region. Okay we are not suggesting you scale the summit but the south base camp is certainly achievable and the views of the mountains and the Khumbu Icefall will make you forget any aching limbs.

See a live Volcano – Costa Rica

Okay this once in a lifetime experience is not for the faint hearted but this active volcano spews molten lava and makes the earth tremble with alarming regularity ! Take a guided tour through Arenal National Park and enjoy the spectacle.

See Orang-Utans in the wild – Borneo

Almost everyone loves these magnificent beasts and to see them in their natural habitat is a magnificent sight. There are now some cracking holiday deals to Borneo which plays host to an amazing array of wildlife.

Stay in an Ice Hotel – Sweden

Excuse the pun, but this a very cool thing to see and do. Each winter, sculptors create a new hotel using ice from the Torne River in Sweden and to take in the view of this unique ice palace and even stay a night, is a must for the list.

See the sunset over Uluru – Australia

Otherwise known as Ayers Rock this iconic landmark just has to be seen in person as the sun sets over the Australian outback – Enjoy these sights while you can !

Extra Idea: You might also love the idea of a whale sighting holiday for a truly unique experience.

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Categories Adventure, Culture, Outdoors, Travel, Travel Writing

The Best Parks in Cardiff, Wales

May 12, 2011 //
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The city of Cardiff in Wales is one of the most popular cities in the UK for tourists. One of the best features of the city is the number of parks spread around the city which are stunning at any time of the year, and especially in summer. Below is a brief guide to some of the best parks in Cardiff.

Cardiff Parks

Cardiff Parks

Roath Park – Roath Park is a short drive from the city centre, or about a 20 minute walk. This is a luscious space of grass which, whilst not the biggest park in Cardiff, is pleasurable due to the uninterrupted space and pleasant surrounding trees. The close proximity to shops, bars and restaurants is conducive to a day long stay.

Heath Field – In the foreground of the main city hospital, located in one of the more desirable sections of Cardiff, can be found this enormous park. There are a number of sports pitches here which make it attractive to sporty visitors, but there is also plenty of other greenery and woodland to attract all types of people.

Bute Park – This is the closest park to the city centre, something which is a large factor in its popularity. There are approximately 55 acres of greenery as well as the opportunity to explore the river Taff and to experience exquisite views of Cardiff Castle in Wales.

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Categories Travel

Famous Film Scene Locations

April 7, 2011 //
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Everybody enjoys a good film, regardless of which genre we prefer or who our favourite actors are, there are very few people who don’t enjoy the chance to sit and watch a well produced creation which allows us to live our fantasies through someone else. For most people, there will be a favourite movies scene or sequence, and the setting for this scene becomes embedded with the associations with it. Below are some of the best places to visit in the US which have been the host to some of the movies we grew up watching.

Back to the Future – The scientist’s house from this film which was a teen favourite and launched the career of Michael J Fox is

Movie scenes

Movie scenes

actually open to the public. So visit Pasadena and explore the setting for this classic.

Nightmare on Elm Street – The house which was the centre point for this famous horror/fantasy film shot in the 1980s is in fact in a quiet suburb in Hollywood, so if you grew up watching this you could easily include it in a trip to the popular city.

Dances with Wolves – Much of this iconic film, which was a mixture between western and a tear jerking drama and starred Kevin Costner, was shot around the area of the Triple U Standing Butte Ranch in Dakota. The area is great to visit not only to see where scenes from this film were shot but also due to the beauty of the area.

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Categories Culture, New York, NYC, Travel, USA

6 Great Camping locations to try in France

February 8, 2011 //
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Camping is one of the most exciting ways to travel as you can take your own accommodation with you anywhere and get in touch with nature. By taking yourself away from nature you will find yourself indulging in traditional activities to entertain yourself. You can also enjoy all of the wonders of wildlife including marvellous views of the countryside. Below are some of the best places to do this in France:

Camping France

Camping France

Les Tilleuls – A fabulous location for the traveller who likes to escape the built up cities and enjoy some peaceful time in beautiful surroundings. Located in the Pyrenees in in Gedre, the views of the mountains and the charismatic old building which are scattered around are simply marvellous.

Domaine Le Poteau – This campsite is set right out in the countryside of Castlenau d’Auza meaning that you will be able to enjoy agricultural France at its best. The site is in close proximity to local vine yards. Read more about Domaine Le Poteau.

Camping la Vendette – In order to reach this location on an island just to the south of Brittany you will have to travel by boat. The journey is worth it though to enjoy the gorgeous greenery which has been a haven for artists for centuries.

Le Clapas – Located close to the sea, this location is ideal for the adventurer as there are plenty of sea sports available. The landscape around the coast is simply perfect for camping and enjoying the scenery.

Cap d’Agde camping – If you are brave, naturist camping in Agde in the South of France is a good option, with a wonderful mile long beach running parallel to the camp site. The resort has everything and the camp site includes several food outlets, a laundery room, wireless internet soverage and a lot more. More on Cap d’Agde Camping in France and via Agde sales.

Mas de la Fargassa – The exclusive location of this campsite is its main draw. The difficult roads on the way to this haven in amongst the local fruit fields ensure that only the most devoted campers travel here.

Find more France travel ideas with the free France guides.

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Categories Adventure, Culture, France, Outdoors, Travel, Uncategorized

Eurostar: The Train to Europe

October 12, 2010 //
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Eurostar to BrusselsPlanning a week-end to Brussels, Paris or Euro Disney from London? Think Eurostar. The Eurostar train can take you directly to these destinations and more! For those who are not familiar with the name, Eurostar is a high-speed passenger train facility which connects the United Kingdom with Europe and all its trains are owned and operated by Eurotunnel. St. Pancras is the London Eurostar terminal and its Paris terminal is Gare du Nord with a number of calling points in between and further. The Eurostar is greatly preferred over taking the plane because it is comfortable, affordable, high-speed and great fun.

If you are taking a family holiday in Paris, Eurostar is a great way to travel because the service offers ample facilities for families with children. The trains have special family areas, giving the children space to move around and play. Besides this, there are baby changing areas and a bar buffet that serves delicious meals and snacks, giving you real quality unlike the typical sandwiches one gets at railway stations. If you are heading from London to Euro Disney the journey will take you 2 and a half hours, door to door.

Eurostar allows business travellers to check in quickly and choose their seats. Wether you are traveling to Brussels, Paris or Avignon, you will enjoy facilities such as power sockets for laptops, complimentary newspapers, snacks, drinks, magazines and Internet. The meals are excellent, but if you are too busy, the Express Breakfast, which is a cold but healthy meal, is the best choice for you.

Since I am a frequent traveller, I enjoy special benefits such as loyalty points, which I exchange for exciting prizes. If you make Eurostar journeys worth £185, you can call yourself a frequent Eurostar traveller. To be a part of this, you will need to submit a completed online registration form, after which you only have to quote your membership number whenever you travel by Eurostar. What’s more, you can also book hotel rooms, tickets to cultural events and tourist hotspots, rental cars and gift vouchers whenever you book a Eurostar seat online.

Categories France, Travel

Writing to Travel

March 16, 2010 //
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Most avid travellers have, at one time or another, dreamt of becoming a full time travel writer. What could better than travelling for a living? Well not much, if you don’t mind living in a state of perpetual motion.

Travel writing is one of the hardest areas of journalism to break into, simply because it’s appealing to so many people. Many successful travel writers starting out working on guide books, if not providing original content then doing a revision for the book’s next edition. Increasingly, editors and publishers prefer to use

Travel Writing competition

Travel Writing competition

English-speaking writers that are living in the destination, or at least have visited it several times. Here is where you language skills and local knowledge really come into play, and the more exotic the better!

The web provides many opportunities to break into travel writing, though very few to actually make enough to earn a living from it. That said, a good blog is your best asset and your calling card: these days it’s not unusual for editors to only consider writers with a solid blog following. Your blog is also your brand, and it could help you land assignments, press trips or even a book deal.

Another way of opening a door is entering Travel Writing Competitions, such as this one organised by Holiday Velvet.

This will not only give you exposure on a busy website, but you could even win a weekend in Barcelona!

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Categories Culture, Travel, Travel Writing
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