Find Somewhere to Get Lost in a Good Book

In today’s modern computerised world it is still very satisfying to be able to take a step back to relax and you let your imagination take over as you engross yourself in a good book. The enduring appeal of this humble pastime can be read deeply into with the popularity of the Hay Festival, set in the small town of Hay-On-Wye, “The Town of Books” every May and June. The essence of the festival is summed up beautifully by former U.S. President Bill Clinton, who described it as being “the Woodstock of the mind” – a sentiment that is undoubtedly shared by many of the 80,000 visitors, from all walks of life, that attend, this is its 26th year.

Book Shops Offline!

It is not just the annual festival that make the small market town of Hay-on-Wye famous for booklovers; In fact, you could say that it is just the icing on the cake in terms of the towns literary heritage, boasting links to numerous authors, including Jenny Valentine and Jasper Fforde, and being home to more than 30 different bookshops. However, the real plaudits have to go to Richard Booth, a Welsh bookseller, who elevated the small town’s standing amongst the literary community after a publicity stunt he orchestrated in which he declared Hay-on-Wye an independent kingdom with him as its leader!

Hay on Wye Find Somewhere to Get Lost in a Good Book

Hay-on-Wye booksellers. CC Image by WordShore (Flickr).

Another destination that is playing its part in keeping the reputation of one of the world’s favourite pastimes thriving is Dublin. Tourism has grown thanks to numerous restaurants, cafes, bars and attractions such as Dublin Castle or the Guinness storehouse and the old Jameson distillery for those that like a cheeky tipple. However, Dublin – one of only six UNESCO cities of literature – is also a bookworm’s paradise, with the likes of the national print Museum of Ireland and the National library of Ireland.

It is hardly surprising that the city is such a great place to get lost in a good book having produced an impressive array of authors and Nobel laureates that have graced the world with their remarkable writing talents, such as WB Yeats, Samuel Beckett, George Bernard Shaw and Oscar Wilde (who even has a museum dedicated to him there); the city has even inspired great works such as Ulysses by James Joyce. Pick any of these authors, relax in a sunny park and enjoy the story.

Book a Train

The city of Maastricht in the Netherlands isn’t just famous for the treaty that is named after it, but it is also home to one of the world’s most impressive bookshops – Selexyz Dominicanen. Patrons of the shop enjoy the exquisite beauty, set in a 13th century Dominican church with stunning 14th century ceiling paintings, as they browse the vast selection of books – this store often gets the vote as the world’s most spectacular. (A piece by the Huffington Post agrees).

Selexyz Dominicanen Find Somewhere to Get Lost in a Good Book

Maastricht. CC Image by Bert Kaufmann (Flickr).

It seems that the city is no stranger to jaw-dropping scenery with tourists not only able to enjoy the many locals shops and cafes but visit the picturesque selection caves and caverns as well – including the famous St Pietersburg caves and the Maastricht caves. Other attractions that are easy on the eye include the basilica of St. Servatius.

Open a book on the train and head over to Europe to add to you library – the Heathrow Express will allow you to read just a couple of chapters on route to London Heathrow (their homepage is here). Elsewhere in Europe and a contrast to the previous extravagance is the quaint Shakespeare & Company bookshop in Paris.

Book a Flight

Despite its glorious setting, Maastricht’s Selexyz Dominicanen faces stiff competition when it comes to being recognised as one of the world’s most impressive bookshops. Settle down on a flight and get reading whilst heading to some other literary destinations. Others around the world that prove irresistible to flocks of tourists each year include Porto’s Livraria Lello, with stunning neo-Gothic architecture; the phenomenal Librería El Ateneo Grand Splendid in Buenos Aires, set in a converted movie palace – usually the movie comes after the book!

Livraria Lello Find Somewhere to Get Lost in a Good Book

Bookstore. CC Image by Natalia Romay (Flickr).

So taking advantage of Heathrow airport transfers to visit one of these superb locations is a great way to get lost in a good book and perhaps pick up a few others to fuel your next trip, or just for the journey home.

Top Ten Accessible Attractions in the UK

The Beatles Story Top Ten Accessible Attractions in the UK

Beatles Story Exhibition, Albert Docks, Liverpool. CC Image by -Jeffrey- (Flickr).

By JOSH HANSEN

Popular attractions are so often not fully accessible to those with disabilities. Fortunately I’ve managed to find ten of the best attractions in the UK that are fully accessible to help you get the most out of your trip.

1.   The Cheltenham Summer Classical Music Festival is a firm favourite for all music lovers.  It’s in the centre of town at the Big Sleep Hotel. Cheltenham operates a shop-mobility scheme with the loan of a powered scooter or wheelchair or a manual wheelchair.

Facilities:

  • Lift access to all floors
  • 4 specially adapted wheelchair-friendly rooms
  • Roll-in wet rooms
  • Grab rails in the bathrooms

Tel: 44 844 880 8094

2.   The London Eye – The large pods give plenty of room for access. There is a 360 degree view of the metropolis. You can also order a bottle of champagne or a Pimm’s to help you to enjoy the stunning views.

Facilities:

  • Chair ramps for easy access for wheelchairs
  • Several wheelchair-friendly hotels in the area

Tel: 44 871 781 3000

3.   Shakespeare’s Globe – The Globe theatre has an incredible history and is on any cultural tour of London list. Soak up the atmosphere of the most important theatre in the world.

Facilities:

  •  Specialised wheelchair areas provide a great view and cater to any needs

Tel. 020 7902 1400

4.   Liverpool - The Beatles Story. See how the famous four were propelled to the dizzy heights of fame and fortune from their humble childhood beginnings.

Facilities:

  • An audio tour guide charting The Beatles’ careers
  • Life-size reconstructions of the Cavern Club and Abby Road Studios
  • Special workshops for kids
  • A collection of rare photographs of the band
  • Disabled Access

Tel: (0151) 709 1963

5.   The Shire Hall Gallery in Market Square in the centre of Stafford shows a wide variety of art exhibitions.

Facilities:

  • Promotes and sells art work in the Craft Shop
  • Access to the Balcony Coffee Shop and courtroom via lifts

Tel: 01785 278345

6.   The Black Country Museum is in Dudley. Costumed demonstrators recreate the lives of the crafts-people who worked in the area. Delightful shops and pubs.

Facilities:

  • Ramps to most of the buildings
  • Some wheelchair access on to the canal via a hydraulic lift

Tel: 44 121 557 9643

7.   The Magic of Life Butterfly House in Aberystwyth. There are at least 25 different species of tropical butterflies and all sorts of insects, bugs and giant caterpillars.

Facilities:

  • Disabled car parking
  • Level/ramped wheelchair access
  • Concessionary fee for wheelchair user
  • Wheelchair access to gardens/grounds

Tel: 44 1970 880928

8.   Ilfracombe Aquarium is an all-weather location alongside Ilfracombe’s historic harbour. It shows the underwater life from an Exmoor stream to the Atlantic Ocean using multiple tanks and exhibits.

Facilities:

  • Wheelchair access
  • Disabled car parking
  • Level/ramped wheelchair access into venue
  • Concessionary fee for carer
  • Café and Gift Shop

Tel: 44 1271 864533

9.   RSPB Glaslyn Ospreys Based near the river, this small but informative RSPB ‘Date with Nature’ is well worth a visit.

Facilities:

  • Both low and higher telescopes
  • Ramp to a small shop
  • Large TV screens showing live and recorded pictures of birds in the nest

Tel: 07921 284 321

10.   Bersham Heritage Centre – Discover 300 years’ worth of iron and steelmaking at Bersham.

Facilities:

  • Level/Ramped wheelchair access into venue
  • Concessionary fee for wheelchair user and carer
  • Wheelchair access to gardens/grounds

Tel: 01978 318970

Josh Hansen writes for Vitalise a UK charity that is dedicated to helping people with disabilities and their families in enjoy their holidays.

Natural Attractions in New Zealand

Queenstown Natural Attractions in New Zealand

On the road to Glenorchy. CC Image by Stewart Baird (Flickr).

Located in the south-western Pacific Ocean, the country island of New Zealand is one of the most beautiful places to visit in the world. Geographically, the country is split into two islands, the north and the south, however there are also a number of other smaller island that surround the coastline. At just under 2,000km from Australia, and 1,000km from Fiji, New Zealand is certainly a remote holidaying destination, however millions of tourists flock to the island every year to experience the dynamic culture, great food and spectacular beaches.

New Zealand was one of the last places in the world to be colonized by humans, with the Polynesians the first inhabitants from 1250-1300 CE. Furthermore, with the first European contact taking place in 1642 CE, it shows how isolated the island once was.

The first European settlers brought a number of Western goods and trade with them, causing mass inter-tribe wars between the island’s original inhabitants. In the mid-1800s, the Maori (the islands original settlers) and the British signed a treaty which made the island a colony of the British Empire.

Since then, tourism and immigrant numbers have skyrocketed, and conflicts between the Maori visitors to the island sharply increased. Reform soon swept New Zealand, with women getting the right to vote, political systems were put in place, and a welfare state was even introduced.

Since then, the New Zealanders have enjoyed one of the highest standards of living in the world. Due to the islands natural beauty and amazing landscapes, it remains one of the most popular holidaying destinations in the world. In case you’ve not already been sold and gone to book your flights to New Zealand, let’s take a look at some of the exciting activities to do, and sights to see.

Queenstown

Queenstown is a very popular place in New Zealand. Not only does it offer a place for adventurers to comes together and explore their surroundings, but it is also home to some of the best beaches on the island. From crystal clear waters and exotic sea life to rock climbing and kayaking, there are a number of great activities for tourists to experience in Queenstown. Additionally, you can take a trip further inland to see the huge glacier mountains and alpine lakes that surround Queensland.

Nelson and the Waimangu Volcanic Valley        

Nelson can be found towards the south of New Zealand, and it is the home of the island’s best coastlines. If you’re a keen surfer, then you’ll definitely want to take a trip to Nelson, as it’s one of the hottest surfing spots in the world! From white sandy beaches to continuous sunshine, Nelson is a great place for tourists, offering world-class accommodation situated in one of the most beautiful landscapes on the island.

Then there’s Waimangu Volcanic Valley – one of the most unique places in the Pacific. Located in the Rotorua region of the island, the volcanic valley is the world’s youngest geothermal system, meaning it was created during a time where humans were able to document history. Born from a volcanic eruption hundreds of years ago, the sands around this volcano are warm and rich in nutrients, and the mud baths are also very popular with tourists too.

Discovering Brittany: Things to See & Do

Blanc Sablons Brittany Discovering Brittany: Things to See & Do

Coast path over Blanc Sablons. CC Image by Jon Bowen (Flickr).

Brittany is located in north-west France and provides a great destination for camping adventures. Whether you want to go for a dive near the 30 km-long, beautiful, pink granite coast, (a very rare natural phenomenon that can only be found in two other places worldwide), or admire one of the sculpted calvaries that can be found in many small villages in the region, it’s all there! For the best facilities, find campsites in Brittany with Canvas Holidays. Below, we’ve listed some interesting things to see and do during your trip.

Eat and drink as much as you can

We don’t need to stress that Brittany is famous for its wines, but there is a lot more to the region than just this. They are the largest cider producing region in the whole of France and there are lot of beer breweries there, too. They are also famous for their savoury pancakes served with butter and the iconic Breton galette. And Brittany’s location by the sea gives non-veggie foodies
plenty of exquisite options.

Visit one of the many festivals Brittany offers

Every year, there are plenty of festivals in the region and there’s something for everyone. La Route Du Rock is a bi-annual festival that takes place in August and always offers an interesting indie line-up of both established and up-and-coming bands, for audiences both young and old. For those into the heavier stuff, there’s Hellfest in Clisson, held annually in June festival and focusing on ‘extreme music’. La Folle Journée, in Nantes, which focuses on classical music and Rencontres Trans Musicales, is undoubtedly the biggest music festival in the region, with the most varied line-up, drawing an international crowd of music lovers and industry types every year.

Visit one of the many castles

There are lot of castles in Brittany that are open to the public. One of the most famous is the Josselin Castle, located in the Morbihan department of France, the former home to Francis II and Henry II of England.

Explore the forest

Brittany is home to a host of forests and marine parks, including Paimpont forest and Iroise sea coast. The Iroise sea coast is one of the most torrid seas in Europe so it’s important to see if there are any storms approaching. If so, stay away from it but if not, do visit! It’s a beautiful area with a rich natural and sea life and is France’s first ever marine park.

Airport Parking Made Easy!

Airport parking Airport Parking Made Easy!

The worst case scenario: It’s raining out, traffic is a nightmare, you hit every red light on the way to the airport and your flight leaves in two hours. You’re frantically driving around the parking garage at the airport, watching the clock as the minutes tick by. Oh! There! A black sedan is backing out of a parking spot half way down the next row – perfect! You accelerate and head towards the spot. Oh, the blue minivan beat you to it. You resign yourself to circling the area one more time while praying that the line through security isn’t long today.

Not every day is as bad as the worst case scenario, but if you’re a regular traveler, then you know that one of the most dreaded parts of traveling is finding airport parking. There just never seems to be enough parking for the sheer number of travelers that come in and out of international airports on a daily basis. Most seasoned travelers know that the easiest way to park their car is at an off-site location, but then they have to worry about getting to and from the airport, security where they left their car and the outrageous rates that many feel they can charge.

When you choose to reserve your airport parking spot with Cheap Airport Parking, you don’t have to worry about any of that!

What They Offer:

  • Guaranteed parking! When you reserve your parking space, it is yours for the days you need it. You won’t have to worry about finding a spot, it’s waiting for you.
  • Security!  All of their parking centers offer 24 hour security, video surveillance and well lighted areas for the traveler’s peace of mind. Some, like the Hilton @LAX, offer indoor parking for even more peace of mind. While they can’t take responsibility for your vehicle, you can be assured that all precautions are taken at each site location.
  • Shuttle service! Their free shuttle service ensures that you get to the airport and back to your car in a timely manner, 24 hours a day. They also make sure that you have easy to follow directions on where to drop your car off and where to meet the shuttle service.
  • Cheapest rates! Their rates are highly discounted from the rates that are offered to drive in travelers. Because companies want to fill their lots, the best rates go to those who book their spaces in advance.
  • Flexibility! If for any reason your travel plans change, just let them know. Changing the dates on your reservation is quick and easy.
  • Reputable companies! With big brand names like Hilton and the Marriot, as well as numerous small businesses whose goal is to ensure customer satisfaction, you can rest assured knowing that you are getting only the best airport parking available.

Before making your reservation, make sure to read reviews from past customers. They, like you, are seasoned travelers and many leave tips and hints to ensure that your experience is the best that it can be.

Five Of the Most Romantic Honeymoon Getaways In America

Couple Five Of the Most Romantic Honeymoon Getaways In America

Romance is the key to an engaging relationship. Whether a couple is newly wed or have been together for a number of years, romance is essential to keep the love alive, and the setting of a romantic getaway can add to the fun. Instead of traveling to Italy or France, why not visit the romantic cities right here in America.

Charleston, South Carolina

This colonial city is a quiet and laid back testament to the old way of life. Its cozy streets and 18th century architecture make Charleston one of the most popular tourist destinations in America. On the outskirts of the city you’ll find numerous plantations and trails for a romantic walk to get away from it all while relishing in the company of your significant other. Downtown Charleston offers old-style dining, perfect for classy couples wanting to dine in intimate settings.

Aspen, Colorado

World famous Aspen, Colorado is known for its ski slopes and luxury lodges. Many couples choose Aspen to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, and remember why they fell in love with their significant other. After hitting the slopes, you can snuggle up by the fire with a good book, browse the lodge, or catch a movie. And the cold climate doesn’t take away from the romantic settings that Aspen offers.

Kauai, Hawaii

Kauai has been referred to as paradise on Earth. It’s picturesque sunsets and perfect climate make it a natural destination for many honeymooners and couples. Kauai offers many activities off the beaten path, perfect for intimacy and privacy. Kauai enjoys over 320 days of sunshine a year, and chances are the romance will be kept warm by the weather.

The Virgin Islands

The U.S. Virgin Islands are a U.S. territory and offer all of the perks of international travel without the hassles. For couples that enjoy history and nature, these islands will leave visitors enchanted. The clear blue water and the affordable accommodations make the U.S. Virgin Islands a hidden gem in terms of romantic getaways.

Miami, Florida

Miami is a large city for couples who always want something to do during their getaway. Unlike the other destinations, this getaway is in a major city, and visitors could brush up on a defensive driving course in Florida. Miami also offers some of the most pristine beaches in the continental United States. Accommodations on the beach are plentiful, and the Miami nightlife may be just what a couple needs to get that spark back into their relationship.

4 Places to Enjoy Spring in Europe

Las Ramblas Girl 4 Places to Enjoy Spring in Europe

Girl, uniterrupted. CC Image by Ian Muir (Flickr).

By DANIEL HOGAN

Europe is a continent sized adventure land, mesmerizing idealistic tourists with the promise of history, romance, and memories to last a lifetime. With so many enticing options, planning your trip across the pond can be overwhelming. Here are a few places that are sure to captivate your adventurous spirit and exceed your expectations for the ultimate European vacation!

Las Ramblas (Barcelona)

The energetic atmosphere and cultural vibe filling Las Ramblas makes it one of the most captivating streets in Barcelona. It is not only a beautiful avenue, outlined with towering trees and ornate buildings, but a popular shopping quarter. Local and internationally known shops and stores, like Zara, line the outskirts of Las Ramblas, which is always filled with locals, tourists, and those simply out for a stroll. One of the key attractions on Las Ramblas is La Boqueria, an outdoor market offering specialty foods, desserts and fruit juices. After spending a day of shopping on Las Ramblas, La Boqueria is the perfect location to rejuvenate during lunch and experience the local culture.

Vondelpark (Amsterdam)

Vondelpark 4 Places to Enjoy Spring in Europe

Vondel Wonder. CC Image by Amsterdamized (Flickr).

Nestled in the heart of Amsterdam, Vondelpark is the city’s largest park, boasting a bike trail, multiple ponds, four restaurants, and stunning grassy fields. Thousands of locals, tourists, and students flock to Vondelpark daily, soaking up the sun’s heat in a relaxed, outdoor setting. Groups of friends are always seen playing soccer on the grassy landscape or riding bikes around the park’s outer path. During your European adventure, Vondelpark should definitely be on your list of things to do in Amsterdam.

Hofbräuhaus (Munich)

Hofbräuhaus 4 Places to Enjoy Spring in Europe

Cheating. CC Image by Jenn Vargas (Flickr).

A signature to Bavarian culture is the beer and Hofbräuhaus is a historic landmark in Munich combining this German tradition with bratwurst, pretzels, and good company. The moment you step into the doors of Hofbräuhaus, sounds of a Bavarian band and guests singing national songs ring through your ears. The ceiling is adorned with elaborate paintings of flowers while waitresses, donning traditional Bavarian dress, weave through the crowds selling giant pretzels to patrons. A “come as you are” mentality fills the atmosphere of Hofbräuhaus. Rather than being seated by a waitress, guests are welcome to sit at any one of Hofbräuhaus’ long tables, fostering a friendly environment of mutiple nationalities. For things to do in Munich, Hofbräuhaus should definitely be at the top of your list.

Piazzale Michelangelo (Florence)

Piazzale Michelangelo 4 Places to Enjoy Spring in Europe

Piazzale Michelangelo. CC Image by Humayun Rashid (Flickr).

Perched upon a hill overlooking the entire Florentine valley, Piazzale Michelangelo is one of Florence’s most unique and beautiful squares because of its overarching view. Although the square is located a bit outside the city’s center, about a 10-minute cab drive, it is the perfect location to relax with friends over a bottle of wine while admiring the Florentine landscape. The panorama is especially striking just before sunset, when guests see Florence dazzling in lights. Though Piazzale Michelangelo is mainly a tourist hub, with only a few locals, it is definitely one of the most spectacular places to visit Florence.

Daniel Hogan is a writer at Party Earth - a global media and entertainment company that publishes reviews and listings of the best social experiences around the world including: things to do in Amsterdam, beaches in Ibiza, plazas in Rome, bars in Los Angeles, parks in New York, festivals and concerts everywhere, and more.

Four Idyllic Destinations in the Mexican Caribbean

Cozumel Beach Four Idyllic Destinations in the Mexican Caribbean

Beach Cozumel – Riviera Maya Ocean View. CC Image by Grand Velas Riviera Maya (Flickr).

Imagine your ultimate romantic holiday. Does it include strolling on spotless beaches, drinking cocktails from carved-out pineapples and watching a swollen sun sink below the horizon?

If the answer to these questions is yes then the Mexican Caribbean is the ideal destination for you. Inexpensive with plenty of things to do, this beautiful stretch of coast is great for new couples getting to know one another.

There are a number of stunning resorts to choose from, each offering a little slice of paradise for sun-seekers. Here are the four most idyllic destinations.

Cancún

So someone stole your heart on www.eharmony.co.uk and now you’re both planning a sizzling escape south of the border. Make sure your first stop is Cancún. What was once a deserted strip of sand has been transformed into a world-class site of pilgrimage for sun-worshippers.

There’s no end of activities for star-crossed lovers to do. The warm, turquoise ocean gently laps on silvery white sand – perfect for lounging on with an ice-cold drink. Feeling adventurous? Unleash your inner Indiana Jones and explore the nearby Mayan temples and ruins – dating back more than 2,000 years.

Costa May

The small coastal region of Costa Maya is a paradox. Although one of the most visited areas in the nation, it’s also the most unknown. Perhaps because of its obscurity, Costa Maya’s historic and cultural heritage has remained unspoilt – as well as the natural landscape.

Take a romantic trip to this gorgeous region and there’ll be plenty of moments to reminisce about later on down the road. Swaths of protected jungle are waiting to be explored, while pristine lagoons offer perfect diving opportunities.

Cozumel

Cozumel Fish Four Idyllic Destinations in the Mexican Caribbean

Cozumel – Lots of Fish. CC Image by Roger Wollstadt (Flickr).

For diehard romantics, a tropical island is the only destination worth considering when going on holiday. Luckily, the Mexican Caribbean ticks that box with Cozumel.

Located just off the eastern tip of the Yucatan Peninsula, ancient Mayans believed the island to be the home of Ixchel, goddess of love and fertility. For modern-day travellers, it’s a wildlife haven, both on land and under the waves.

The crystal-clear waters surrounding Cozumel are rich with exotic species of animal. In fact, Mesoamerica Reef is the largest reef in the Western hemisphere. Don scuba gear and dive under to make friends with turtles, stingrays and, of course, colourful fish.

Holbox

Despite only being 42km long, Holbox has lots to offer those who are looking to get away from it all. The shallow lagoon that separates this small island from the land is alive with flamingos, pelicans and other spectacular species. The laid-back locals make their living fishing in the clear waters.

Fallen in love with the Caribbean way of life? Or maybe you hail from that beautiful part of the world and want to reconnect with your heritage. Either way, eHarmony can help. Search for Caribbean singles and soon you could be planning a romantic getaway for two.

New York City in the Spring

Brooklyn Botanical Gardens New York City in the Spring

Brooklyn Botanical Gardens Cherry Blossoms. CC Image by FreeVerse Photography (Flickr).

The leaves have grown back, the blossoms have bloomed and the ponds in Central Park have thawed. Yes, Spring has returned to New York City and the tourists are bustling into the city. Seasonally shaped to indulge the tastes of every visitor, New York City offers a diverse of attractions that will satisfy even the most picky tourists. But before you go, you have to be ready to take in the city and to experience everything that it has to offer. The only way you can do this is to be prepared and informed.

What You’ll Need to Take:

1. Take enough money, and then some! New York City can be pricy, especially Spring which is the peak of the tourist season. Make sure you have enough cash for cab trips or subway rides since you may not find parking in New York City unless you’re in Brooklyn or Queens.

2. You’ll need maps! Whether it’s a paper map or a map app on your phone, be sure that you know where you are. The last thing you want is to end up in Jersey. A subway map is also helpful.

3. Bring your itinerary! Itineraries will help you stay on schedule, this way, you can enjoy everything the city has to offer.

Where You Can Go:

Over the years, I have experienced New York City to almost to it’s full extent (although I don’t think I’ll ever be able to completely experience the city), searching every brick and mortar nook and cranny for and fun adventures and unique thrills and have found that most attractions can be found in two boroughs: Brooklyn and Manhattan. Luckily, each of these boroughs has something specific to to offer in the Spring.

Brooklyn

The city celebrates the coming of Spring in good taste with New York City’s Official Barbeque at Greenpoint. Brooklyn also hosts an array of wine, beer and food festivals that line the city streets every weekend, making it the perfect pit stop for foodies worldwide. While you’re in Brooklyn, make sure to also tour the Brooklyn Brewery, visit the Brooklyn Botanical Gardens and take a gander at the cherry blossoms, walk through the Greenmarket at Grand Army Plaza to taste the fruits of labor of the local city farmers, shop at the trendy independently owned art galleries and boutiques that Brooklyn’s famous for, take the D train down to Coney Island and enjoy a walk on the beach.

Manhattan

One of the hotbeds of world tourism, Manhattan really takes the cake when it comes to hosting events and attractions that captivate the diverse interests of its inhabitants and visitors. If you happen to be in Manhattan in the Spring, visiting Central Park should be at the top of the list. Whether you’re having a picnic on the East Side or taking a stroll near the pond, Central Park is no doubt a sight for sore eyes. Near the southern end of the city, the neighborhoods come alive as the the frost dissolves.

Enjoy these neighborhoods by visiting the wonderful art fairs in Washington Square Park, admiring the fashions of local designers in SoHo’s street shops, trekking your way up to the Ninth Avenue International Food Festival, catching a few flicks at the Tribeca Film Festival or the New Directors/New Films Festival on Amsterdam, stopping by Times Square to catch a Broadway show and finishing off the day by heading Uptown to Serendipity to indulge on their nationally recognized, Oprah “favorited” frozen hot chocolate.

New York City is place of celebrations, culture, music and traditions that challenge the very senses. Get out there and see what the city has to offer. You won’t regret it! There are an insurmountable number of events and attractions that take place seasonally and annually in New York City and every year is different, so make sure to keep an eye out for the novelties the city has to offer. For more information about city-wide events visit nyc.gov.

Ideal Spring Holiday Locations

Central Park Spring Ideal Spring Holiday Locations

Sheep Meadow, Central Park. CC Image by Heath Brandon (Flickr).

Spring is approaching and calls for the first longer holiday of the year. The British company Co-operative Travel offers a wide variety of different all-inclusive holidays. If you have any family members that are still in school, the company offers holiday packages that keep the school dates in mind as well as a great variety of Easter Holidays, too. No matter where you want to go or with how many people you will be travelling, you can find good deals on the site. To make the decision of where to travel a little easier for you, we have picked the ideal spring holiday locations.

A Trip for Two to New York

Do you want to go on a short holiday with your significant other? Then the city of skyscrapers and the Central Park is an amazing destination, especially if you’ve never been. Walking through the vibrant streets of New York City is a thrilling experience. Shop until you drop, visit the Guggenheim and the Statue of Liberty, soar to the summit of the Empire State Building and grab some seats at the Yankee Stadium.

A Family Trip to Disneyland Paris

Visiting Disneyland in Paris is probably one of the best holiday destinations if you’re travelling with kids – but it’s fun for adults too! Who doesn’t want to meet Mickey Mouse and live in a fairy tale for a couple of days? There are also Disneylands in California, Hong Kong and Tokyo (and Disneyworld In Florida) but Disneyland Paris is a great fit, as it’s close and allows you to visit the city of light for a day or two leading up to your stay in Disneyland. A trip for four persons will cost you about £599 including accommodation and food, which isn’t a lot at all.

Affordable Family Holidays to Marrakesh

If you want to spend some time in a warmer country, Morocco is both a good and affordable option. Travel through the Atlas Mountains, meet storytellers and snake-charmers at Jemma el Fna and visit one of the many mosques in the city. Taste some new food too – you’ll be pleasantly surprised!

Trip to an Austrian Ski Resort

Are you itching to ski? Then visiting one of Europe’s most popular ski destinations, Austria, is your best bet. The Austrian resorts have hosted the Winter Olympics time and time again, but now it’s your opportunity to shine! If you’ve never been skiing before, Co-operative Travel offers lots of opportunities to learn how to ski. You’ll feel like a pro in no time! While St. Anton is terrific for off-piste and after-ski parties, picturesque Ellmau and Niederau suit better for families. If you’re with a big group, Soll is the destination for you.