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Top Three Winter Sun Destinations for Brits

January 24, 2014 By Guest Blogger

With the worst winter in decades supposedly on its way to Britain this Christmas, it’s pretty clear that some of us will need to get out of here quick sharp if we can – unless you fancy hibernating in your bedroom after the boiler inevitably packs up. It might be in your best interests to treat yourself to a warm, sunny Christmas instead, perhaps.

Fortunately, there are plenty of continental locations for you to hop over to for some sun-soaked respite from the coming icy blasts. Winter sun destinations are simply the best thing when it comes to beating the winter blues. Here are our favourites.

The Canaries

Visiting the Canary Islands is great value for money. They offer some of the most diverse holiday destinations in Europe and if you can visit more than one of the islands, you’ll really benefit from the variety. Cheap holidays to Fuerteventura are particularly popular.

There are seven islands on the peninsula in total and they all have their own individuality and particular charms to offer as well as enjoying year-round sunshine.

If you want to spend your Christmas indulging in wild parties, head down to Tenerife for its legendary party atmosphere. On the other hand, if you prefer more than just nightlife, head to cialis generique Lanzarote, which offers more family-friendly activities, like the Submarine Safari and the Guinate Tropical Park.

Cyprus

For such a small island, Cyprus is chock-full of local culture and history, and importantly, some impressive nightlife to enjoy. It’s a great Christmas getaway: you’ll be able to justify your cheeky little break with all the culture and have your New Year’s Eve party fun, too.

327430381_bff95eb162 — Photo courtesy flickr user Chany14

Limassol, Larnaca and Ayia Napa all have famously exciting nightlife scenes – particularly the latter, which plays host to over 20 nightclubs on the main strip in town alone. The only thing about visiting Cyprus during Christmas time is that you may not want to return to Britain; the sunshine, warm lapping seas, halloumi cheese, wine and all the fresh seafood will make you forget all about going back to reality.

Madeira, Portugal

If you’re thinking of a later winter escape – around February (when the cold is at its worst and there’s nothing to look forward to), then consider heading over to the Portuguese archipelago of Madeira. But never mind the (admittedly excellent) beaches and the cuisine; your priority will be Madeira’s version of Rio’s famous Mardi Gras Carnival.

11171173874_893a37f502 — Photo courtesy flickr user Gertrud K.

Traditionally, there are two Carnival parades in Madeira. The first one takes place on the Saturday of the Carnival Weekend – https://www.acheterviagrafr24.com/viagra-pour-homme/ expect a riot https://www.viagrasansordonnancefr.com/viagra-naturel/ of Samba dancing and the most outrageous and vibrant, colourful costumes. The second parade follows on Shrove Tuesday.

Staying in chill, grey Britain over winter is not an appealing prospect for most people. But when there are so many gorgeous and sunlit locations so close by, it’s not necessary to suffer the chill. There’s simply no sense in enduring it when you could be enjoying yourself in much warmer climes. So make sure you make the right decision this winter – you certainly won’t regret it!

Consider Cadiz – an alternative option for Spain holidays

June 17, 2013 By Guest Blogger

The warm Mediterranean sun has done something special to southern Spain, or Andalusia as the autonomous region is called. This region is home to some of the most popular tourist destinations in all of Spain, such as the city of Seville and the fortress of the Alhambra in Granada. That said, travelling the region in the summer can be overwhelming and tiring if you stay to the tourist trail. If the tourist sites are not on the agenda for your Spain holidays this summer and the focus of the trip is the culture, food and the scenery of the region, there are numerous options to just relax and enjoy the atmosphere.

Rather than starting the trip in Seville, consider flying into Cadiz. Somehow the tourist hordes usually overlook this beautiful and ancient port city. This is both unfortunate and a blessing. When food is on the mind, Cadiz should come to the forefront. While in the city, everyone should ensure that they at least try the tapa of Cazon en Adobo, which is a small shark marinated in spice, or consider an order of the shrimp fritters, called Tortillitas de Camarones. Being a port city, almost all of the seafood options will usually be good.

For those looking for a beach to relax on where the scene is a little more laid back and less packed with tourists from around the world, consider Los Canos de Meca, which is less than an hour from Cadiz. This beach and adjacent small town are slowly gaining prominence, but they still retain that small town Spanish vibe and lightly tourist-packed sand.

The alternative vibe of Barbate-small and lonely beaches blending with their tuna-based gastronomy, with Mojama, the seafood equivalent to Spanish cured ham, as the highlight, would satisfy the tastes of all travellers and be an even further flung destination for most tourists. Once you are wandering around Barbate, you could also try and visit other spots such as Zahara de los Atunes.

When in the area around Cadiz, a wonderful option for taking in a bit of nature is the Bahia de Cadiz Natural Park. The park has numerous walks or hikes ranging from easy to challenging. A moderately challenging walk that is worth the work is the Sendero Pinar de Algaida. This 12km walk begins at the University of Cadiz and follows along the river. It is a truly peaceful walk that provides a glimpse of the southern Spanish natural bounty while also allowing for some quiet reflection.

And if you are interested in trekking, remember to take a look at Los Alcornocales Natural Park, one of the most unique natural parks in Europe. From the “canuto” forests to its strange animal life, Cadiz Natural Park per excellence is the ideal place to escape from the city while we learn more about the Tardigrada or waterbears

Often when people are thinking of Spain, holidays are focused on seeing the big sites, however a more relaxed trip focused on the area around Cadiz can be more memorable and rewarding, particularly when it comes to food and scenery.

About the Author: Samuel Stokes is a British travel writer. He spends most of his time planning or writing about finding the best budget and backpacking holidays in the Mediterranean coast, after spending most his youth living in different parts of Spain.

Photo Credit: Image by Michael Osmenda used under creative commons license.

Bag a Bargain in Bangkok

May 31, 2013 By Guest Blogger

Thailand is well known as a country to bag a bargain. The markets of Bangkok are a fascinating and exciting experience, where you can wander through the maze of stalls and take in the sights, sounds and smells of the city. If you are planning to fly to Bangkok, then schedule in plenty of time for shopping.

Chatuchak Weekend Market is a must visit, while others such as those in Patpong and Khlong Thom offer exciting night-time shopping experiences. For gifts you won’t find anywhere else, try one of the unique floating markets.

Chatuchak

Chatuchak Weekend Market is enormous and will challenge even the most seasoned shoppers. It is home to more than 8000 market stalls and you can expect it to be exciting and bustling as more than 20,000 visitors descend on the market to buy just about everything. To help you navigate your way through the maze there is a number system. Alleyways are labelled and the market is grouped into 27 sections. This can be a huge help when you want to remember a stall when shopping around and comparing prices.
Chatuchak sells pretty much anything you could ever want…ceramic pots, spices, shoes, lamps, jeans, paintings to name but a few, so you are bound to return with a stack of goods.

Pratunam
Pratunam clothes market is the best clothes and textile market in Thailand. Standing opposite the giant Baiyoke Tower, you will find a labyrinth of alleyways with clothes hanging all around the narrow lanes. You can pick up bargains that are being sold for much more in the department stores, but sizing is Thai rather different than western so it might not be easy to get the right fit.

Floating market

Bangkok had many floating markets because of the easy access of water transport, but due to development many of the waterways have disappeared. Two of the main floating markets still worth visiting are Damnoen Saduak and Amphawa market. Both are within two hours of the city and can easily be accessed on an organised trip or independently. It is a memorable experience to buy goods from a boat while you walk along the banks of a river.

Asiatique

Asiatique combines a night bazaar with a shopping mall. This busy complex has been created around a restored pier in what was once a bustling international trade port. It has now been developed to hold over 1500 boutiques and 40 restaurants as well as offering entertainment. It’s easier and much faster to arrive by boat as traffic can be hectic in the district. Most of the shopping is in large open buildings that have been designed to replicate enormous warehouses. It may be a little over the top, but as you will find a mixture of locals and tourists there it doesn’t feel too much like a tourist attraction.

Mini-guide to shopping in Thailand

If you are looking to explore Thailand’s markets, here are some top tips:

Smile and be friendly when haggling; it’s likely to get you further.
Wear comfortable shoes – you’ll be on your feet shopping for a long time.
Travel to Bangkok with a half empty case so that you have room for your purchases.
Check your goods thoroughly before purchasing to make sure there is no damage, especially with furniture and antiques.
Don’t assume that anything in the market is genuine.
Make a list of things you’re looking for before you hit the shops. Just be prepared to be lured into buying more than you bargained for!
Take a bottle of water as it can get hot while you’re shopping.
Protect yourself from the sun with sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses.
Bring your own backpack with you to carry your purchases, although it is recommended that you either wear this on your front or you lock it so that it is kept secure.
Don’t assume everything for sale in the market is being sold at a good price. You still need to do your research.
Bring cash as many vendors don’t accept cards, although don’t store a large quantity of cash in one place on your person.
Don’t take valuables with you like laptops or expensive cameras while out shopping.
Go early and get your shopping out of the way before the crowds descend, or go late when it is cooler.
Pick up a free map if one is available so you can mark where you see stalls you’d like to go back to when you’ve figured out what price is best.
If you want to buy a number of items from one seller then you can usually get a special price.

Thailand has so many markets to explore. Whether you are looking for high end shopping malls or traditional bazaars, Bangkok is a fantastic shopping destination.

Editors Note: Today’s article was written and brought to you by Karen Bleakley. Karen enjoys travel in South East Asia and especially Bangkok’s many markets and shopping malls.

Photo Credit: Floating Market courtesy of flickr user jscoke via a creative commons license.

10 Places that Will Make You Fall in Love with NYC This Spring

March 21, 2013 By Guest Blogger

Springtime in New York City is full of life. The temperatures are rising, the flowers are starting to bloom and people are starting to shed layers and move around comfortably. This is one of the greatest times to visit the city as there’s so much to see and do whether you’re a nature lover, sports fan or just a tourist who doesn’t want the hassle of mittens that hinder your photo-taking abilities. Everyone has their own list of reasons to love New York, but many people can’t deny the fact that these 10 places are dear to them in the spring.

Central Park – Over 843 acres of New York City that isn’t concrete and taxis is very enjoyable on a nice, spring day in the Big Apple. Take a romantic stroll through the shaded paths or on a horse-drawn carriage ride, take the kids on the carousel or take a run or bike ride through the park. It’s one of the best places in the city to exercise without having to fear getting hit by a car afterall!

Top of the Rock – Springtime in NYC is best seen from above, and there’s no better view of the newly sprouting greenery and blooming buds than from the Top of the Rock. This is one of the best views you’ll find in the entire city of Central Park, the Empire State Building and the New York skyline, so be sure to bring your camera to capture the moment.

Yankees Stadium – Well okay, maybe not. The Yankees are not the most beloved baseball team in America, but they represent New York, and going to a game is actually a lot of fun. Luckily you’re always allowed to root for the other team even when you’re at a home game, so grab a hot dog and a beer and enjoy the moment! You can always head to Queens to cheer on the Mets too.

Yankee Stadium-NYC — Photo Credit: Flickr user Mafue

Union Square – Every Saturday morning, New Yorkers trade in their morning purchases at Starbucks and Walgreens for some local produce, fresh flowers and homemade goods at the Union Square Green Market. Union Square is bustling with interesting things (and people) to see and do this time of year, so after you hit the market, explore the rest of the neighborhood.

5th Avenue – New York City is one of the top destinations in America for St. Patrick’s Day, and every year, one of the biggest St. Patrick’s Day parades in the world heads down Fifth Avenue. Paint the town green this March and steal a few kisses before heading to the bar for some green beer and Irish music.

Macy’s Herald Square – Every year at the Corner of Broadway and 34th for about a month in Spring, the Macy’s Flower Show takes over the first floor of the iconic flagship department store. Stroll through the gardens, take in all the beautiful colors and breath in the blissful smells of real flowers, rather than the perfumes for once.

Midtown Manhattan – When you come to New York City for Easter, enjoy the service or maybe just the beauty of the historic churches in Midtown Manhattan. Famous churches like St. Peter’s Church, St. Patrick’s Cathedral and St. Thomas Church are all perfect places to celebrate Easter, and they’re all close to the NYC Easter Parade!

TriBeCa – Tickets for opening night at the TriBeCa Film Festival are available to everyone. This is the time of year when the stars gather in New York City, so be prepared – you may bump into your favorite celebrity on the way to check out some of the newest independent films.

Rooftop Bars – Many of the rooftop bars have added windows and roofs to stay open year round, but as things start to heat up during the day, all of the rest start to open and the crisp, spring air pairs nicely with a martini or a local craft beer in a glamorous setting. The views from these NYC rooftop bars aren’t half bad either…

Patios for Brunch – Things were chilly this winter, so the patios at many restaurants weren’t very enjoyable. Luckily when the sun startings warming us up, we can head to some of the best brunch spots in NYC for a delicious meal to warm our soul on the patio. A few delicious brunches includes the Cafe Orlin, Rose Water Restaurant, Le Barricou and the LIC Market.

Once the holidays are over, people look to forward to spring for months! Warmer temperature, nature reborn and the hustle and bustle of the NYC life returns, and you’re going to want to be here.

Author: This post was written by Lizz Riggs, editor of NYCTourist.com, a travel site dedicated things to do, deals and hotels in NYC.

A Traveler’s Taste of Polish Cuisine

February 26, 2013 By Guest Blogger

Editor’s Note: These Polish dishes sound absolutely delicious. We may just have to make a trip to Poland soon..

We all know food plays a significant role when traveling the world. If you decide to head to Eastern Europe and spend a few days in Poland, there are certain dishes you might not be familiar with, but you definitely need to try them in order to have a taste of traditional Polish food. Polish cuisine might be considered by many as “heavy” and “stodgy” as most of dishes are made of flour and cereal (pastas, dumplings, noodles), but putting a few pounds on is absolutely worth it! You will discover a fresh taste of sour cream, cottage cheese, mushrooms and Polish sausages and your mouth will start watering when looking at Polish cakes.

Here are 5 top traditional Polish foods you can’t miss:

1. Soups – Rosó? (Polish Meat Broth)
You can come across many different varieties of rosó?, but the one you should definitely have for your lunch or dinner should be traditional chicken soup, served with homemade thin noodles, fried onion, boiled carrot and parsley. This dish will definitely warm you up in cold days and get you back on your feet when you have a cold! It’s a custom to have it on Sunday.

2. Starters –Polish herring
Polish people love eating pickled herrings for Christmas and Easter. It’s not only tasty and affordable, but also very easy to make it. You can either have your herrings in sour cream or oil with some pickled onion. Traditional Polish herring is slightly salty and sour.

3. Main course – Polish pierogi
Pierogi (Polish dumplings) are made of unleavened dough and filled with either cottage cheese, cabbage with mushrooms, fruits or meat and vegetables depending on the season and the weather (strawberry and blueberry pierogi are mainly served in summer, cabbage and mushrooms in winter). Pierogi are extremely delicious, but difficult to make. They are boiled first and then baked or fried in order to get crispy texture. Served with oil, onions and tiny pieces of bacon or sour cream and sugar (fruit ones).

4. Snacks – Faworki
Faworki are thin and crispy biscuits sprinkled with icing sugar. They are often called “Angel wings” for the sake of their shape of twisted ribbons. Faworki are not very sweet, so it would be a perfect snack choice for anyone. If you want, you can put some strawberry jam or nutella chocolate on top. Faworki are eaten in the period just before Lent, often during Carnival and on Fat Thursday. I used to make them with my mom and grandmother for Christmas too.

5. Dessert – Hot szarlotka
Who would resist the temptation of a little piece of amazing Polish apple tart? Nobody, believe me! Especially when it is served with whipped cream or ice cream of your choice. Szarlotka’s crust is very sweet and it is made with butter, looks very sophisticated but is not that hard to make.

As you can see Poland has a lot to offer in terms of its traditional food. Whether you feel an urge to try something super sweet, sour or salty, Polish cuisine will definitely live up to your expectations.

About the guest author:
Agness is a Polish vagabond who, after graduation, left her comfort zone and set off for a journey of her lifetime to China in 2011. She has been constantly traveling the world since then (slowly, but surely as she says), living like a local for less than $25 a day. She became a photography passionate and adventure blogger sharing her life enthusiasm and travel experience with everyone around. Connect with Agness on Twitter or Facebook!

Photo Credit: Guest blogger Agness

Top Three Winter Sun Destinations for Brits

Consider Cadiz – an alternative option for Spain holidays

Bag a Bargain in Bangkok

10 Places that Will Make You Fall in Love with NYC This Spring

A Traveler’s Taste of Polish Cuisine

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