Category Archives: Europe

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.

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.

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.

Rome: More Modern Than Mythology

Sunset on the streets of Rome. CC Image by Zach Dischner (Flickr).

Most people’s idea of Rome involves a mixture of mythology, romance and historical fact. From the fantastical stories of its founders, Romulus and Remus, raised by wolves on the shores of the Tiber, to the spectacular presence of the Colosseum and the Pantheon, Rome stirs the imagination of all who visit. Long at the forefront of world and European culture, art and politics – does Rome’s heritage still hold the same appeal for modern travellers?

Rome’s extravagant imperial past is on show throughout the city – and attractions like the Colosseum reveal spectacular feats of engineering. Visitors can explore ‘behind the scenes’ of the huge amphitheatre and see exactly how thousands of Rome’s citizens were entertained by bouts of gladiatorial combat. Alongside the Colosseum, remnants of the Empire remain beautifully preserved amongst the hustle and bustle of the modern world. You’ll spot eye-catching landmarks, like the Arch of Titus on Via Sacra, the statue of Emperor Augustus on Via del Fori Imperiali or The Forum, the political and commercial heart of the ancient city, sharing a skyline with a bustling urban environment.

The city’s fame isn’t limited to its history – as Rome grew, it won a reputation as one of the greatest cultural and commercial centres in Europe. Rome’s streets are lined with Europe’s biggest names: Bulgari, Fendi, Prada and Chanel all have luxury boutiques in the city – and many of the greatest designers in the world use it as their headquarters. Shopping spots include the historic Spanish Steps, Via Borgognona and Via Frattina – where a metropolitan atmosphere mixes cutting-edge style with the historically laid-back Italian lifestyle.

The cultural heritage of Rome is proud: the city bursts with art and architecture dating from the ancient world, through to the Baroque, Renaissance and Modern periods. Contemporary artistic movements include a healthy cinema industry, and include the Cinecittà Studios, which produces hundreds of feature films and television shows each year.

No city would be complete without a thriving food scene – and Rome is no exception, with dining options ranging from quiet sidewalk cafes to stylish restaurants. Discovering the food and drink of the city represents another chance to look back in time – as traditional dishes, perfected over centuries, mix with the latest creations of some of the most talented chefs in the world. Don’t miss local pasta specialities, such as the famous ‘Alfredo’. Modern delicacies also vie for space on menus: espresso coffees, delicious baked fresh-baked breads and mouth-watering cheesecakes contribute to a vast culinary experience and ensure that when you’ve finished your explorations of this fascinating city – you still have plenty to look forward to!

If you would like to find out more about Rome, why not have a look at Titan Travel’s blog post on Rome and Italy in 2013?

Sicily – A Paradise of Attractions and Culinary Delights

Cefalù in HDR. CC Image by Mario Cutroneo (Flickr).

What to see in Sicily? This Mediterranean gem boasts such a vast array of attractions that it’s quite difficult to provide a satisfying answer to this question. Whether the main goal is visiting the beautiful beaches, stunning landscapes, intriguing towns or ancient ruins, one fact is for certain; foodies in search of culinary adventures will definitively fall in love with the place and the food. Explore your options and see if a Sicily holiday with First Choice can make your culinary dream come true.

The Beautiful Beaches

Many Sicilian beaches evoke memories of distant exotic paradises. San Vito Lo Capo is a true Caribbean beach boasting pristine white sand and crystal clear blue waters. While the beach of Scopello lacks sand, its deep blue waters and massive rocks offer a beautiful backdrop to the surrounding flora and fauna known for offering a paradise of biodiversity. Also worth visiting is Castellamare del Golfo, a beach town located in the province of Trapani, and offering a white sandy beach lapped by crystal clear waters. When the weather gets scorching hot nothing beats a nice, refreshing Sicilian style “gelato” or Italian ice.

Intriguing Towns and Cities

Palermo, Agrigento, Catania, Syracuse, Trapani, Ragusa, Messina and Caltanisetta are the eight Sicilian Provinces. These large cities all offer a wealth of attractions. Small picturesque towns worth visiting include Cefalu’, Erice, Monreale, Piazza Armerina, Avola and Noto. Visitors seeking culinary adventures should watch for local food festivals held year round in many small towns.

The Stunning Natural Landscapes

A must see is Mount Etna, the largest volcano of Europe that occasionally comes to life with spectacular eruptions. Equally fascinating are the several islands surrounding Sicily. Malta, Favignana, Pantelleria and Lipari are splendid destinations to treasure for their unique beauty. Visiting Agrigento when its almond trees are blooming in February is an unforgettable sight. Worth trying are the artistic almond paste creations shaped in all types of fruits and vegetables.

The Ancient Ruins

Sicily has been for many centuries the meeting point for many ancient cultures which have left their traces scattered throughout the island. Agrigento, Selinunte, Syracuse and Taormina boast ancient temples and Greek theatres. The Romans, Normans and Arabs have also left behind stunning villas, beautiful castles and magnificent mosaics. Of course, the local cuisine also reflects the many centuries of different, intriguing cultures.

The Wonderful Food

Nothing feels better than ending an evening catering to the taste buds and enjoying some mouth-watering Sicilian dishes. The Sicilian cuisine is strongly influenced by the Arabs, and therefore, boasts an interesting combination of sweet and savoury. Typical Sicilian dishes include rice balls, stuffed pizza, eggplant caponata and pasta dishes. Travellers with a sweet tooth will rejoice at the sight of marzipan, ice cream, ricotta filled cannoli and the famous Sicilian Cassata.

As seen, it’s very difficult to answer the question “What to see in Sicily?” because there are just so many things to see that a brief stay will likely not suffix. Whether travellers are visiting Sicily for business or for pleasure, this marvellous island will impress with its beautiful beaches, stunning scenery, historic attractions and its wonderful culinary delights.

Elegant and Romantic Vacation Destinations

Paris romance Elegant and Romantic Vacation Destinations

As the weather warms up across much of the Northern Hemisphere, flowers begin to bloom and pants quickly turn into shorts and skirts. Spring is in the air and, as always, the warm weather brings up warm feelings and romantic outdoor activities.

But sometimes couples simply want to get away from jobs, kids and life in general. Thankfully, there are hundreds of amazing getaways to experience and the following list are some of the most elegant and romantic vacation destinations in the world.

Paris

Often called the City of Love, Paris is the capital city of France. From its distinctive Eiffel Tower, the Cathedral of Notre Dame and even the artists lining the cobblestone walkways of Montmarte, Paris has certainly earned its reputation for romantics worldwide. Couples can spend entire weeks strolling through the tree lined walkways of the city, stopping into local bakeries to sample the day’s treats and even throwing a picnic with wine at the base of that tall tower. Luxury hotels that cater to romantic vacations are a mainstay in every section of the massive city, making it one of the most elegant destinations in the world.

Dubai

Dubai is one of the largest cities in the United Arab Emirates and is an absolute vacation destination. Located right off of the Persian Gulf, the weather in Dubai is hot and pleasant much of the year. There are plenty of water based activities like surfing and diving to enjoy, not to mention the possibility of spending a day getting a massage on a beautiful luxury beach. Spas in Dubai are world renowned for the luxurious amenities and high class treatments. Many are located on the region’s beautiful beaches, or in incredibly tall skyscrapers with amazing views. Whatever you choose to do, Dubai is one of the best-kept secrets in world travel.

Hawaii

Hawaii is a string of tranquil islands located in the Pacific Ocean. Most popular with Asian and American tourists, Hawaii has something for everyone, especially romantics. From world-class surfing to mountain biking down a mountain to romantic yoga retreats, Hawaii’s five distinct islands are visited for a reason. Adventurous couples can even take a helicopter ride to experience the sunset over the big, and very active, volcano on the Big Island. Still, Kauai may be the most romantic of all the islands. It is the most secluded island and only has a population of under 100,000. Seclusion, untouched beaches with gentle waves and the sound of the rain forest are all a happy couple needs to enjoy an elegant time on the islands of Hawaii.

What To Do When the Lights Go Out in Leeds

Nightlife & Events 2013. CC Image by Thomas Bone (Flickr).

If you’re looking into vising the beautiful city of Leeds, dubbed by many as one of the most cultured and artistic cities in Britain, then there are a few places that you may want to visit on your trip.

Whether you’re drinking, partying, or sleeping, here are the top places to visit on your night out round Leeds:

Enjoy a cocktail at Sky Lounge

If you really want to find yourself in the highest echelons of the cityscape then enjoying a cocktail in one of the city’s tallest buildings may be just the way to do it.

Offering a panoramic view of Leeds and Yorkshire, the lounge is one of the most important and recognised cocktail bars in the North of England.

Located on the 13^th floor of the Doubletree building, the bar is open to everyone, and if you’re looking to impress on a business outing, then this is most probably the place to do it.

With smart attire being a must, you’ll know that you’ll be rubbing elbows with some of the finest people in the third largest city in the UK.

Party at Chili White

One of the cherries in the Leeds night scene, Chili White can be found just behind the Corn Exchange, right in the centre of Leeds.

Orientated towards lovers of champagne and cocktail based drinks, the bar offers premium drinks and spirits that are sure to dazzle you and your company.

With events, special nights and DJ’s during the week and on weekends, Chili White offers you one of the best possible chances to catch a glimpse of what the night is like in Leeds.

Dance at Paipa VIP Bar & Club

One of the freshest and newest clubs to hit the scene, Paipa VIP Bar and Club promises to be one of the most sought after venues this summer.

Handily placed just opposite Chili White itself, the bar, according to their Facebook page, has ‘been brought from the shores of the beaches of the French Riviera.’

With two floors of elegance, the bar is well worth a visit on any night out in Leeds.

Sleep and Recover at Residence 6

The only five-star city centre property in Leeds, Residence Six’s luxury serviced apartments can be found right opposite the train station in the Grade II listed Post Office building and offer a stunning finish to the high-end Leeds nightlife.

With 23 apartments featuring the highest quality furnishings and entertainment consoles, Residence 6 is by far the most glamorous accommodation that the city has to offer.

Though prices can be found well over the £100, every penny spent is well worth the price of a night enclosed in luxury.

Glamour of Valet Parking and Airport Hotels

By SAAJIDA AKABOR

Why wait to indulge in the fancy or the downright comfortable at your holiday destination when it can start the moment you leave home? And when it’s all within budget, it’s almost too difficult to resist. Valet parking and airport hotels are not merely convenient; they’re an affordable luxury that adds that extra special touch to your travel experience. Let’s take a look at how you can make the most of your holiday before it even begins.

Ease your airport experience with meet and greet or valet parking. Simply arrive at the terminal and hand over your keys. Your car will be safely parked by an experienced chauffeur. On your return, the chauffeur will bring your car to you outside the terminal building, and you’ll be able to drive straight home. The flawless VIP car parking service you receive saves time and removes the laborious task of finding (or not finding) the best bay, wheeling your luggage to the terminal on those oversized carts with unruly brakes and then paying expensive gate rates on your return.

Selected valet services provide a thorough wash, vacuum and wax for your car before your return, so it’s sleek and spotless for the journey home. If you’re wondering how this smart service fits into your budget, Essential Travel’s meet and greet rates at all airports across the UK are cheap and provide fantastic value for your money.

Whether you live near or far from the airport, convenient airport hotels are equally beneficial in both cases. Facilities available at the hotels allow you the opportunity to unwind in a sauna, treat yourself to a refreshing workout or game of tennis and a restful sleep on soft, comfortable linen – an ideal start to your holiday that is peaceful and not rushed at all.

At certain airport hotels, secure onsite parking is provided for the entire duration of your time abroad. With these hotel plus parking packages, airport transfer shuttles to the airport are provided free of charge and work perfectly for those early morning flights. You are dropped off right at the terminal building, so you can proceed right ahead to Departures and be off to your destination.

You don’t need an excuse to spoil yourself even if your destination promises to be exhilarating. Holidays are meant to be a mix of adventure, indulgence and relaxation, so why shouldn’t it start a little earlier? There are affordable valet and hotel options available at all airports to suit your level of luxury.

Saajida Akabor is a copywriter and blogger for EssentialTravel.co.uk; providers of affordable airport hotels and parking across the UK.

Must-Do Pre-Club Spots in Barcelona

Espit Chupitos – Barcelona. CC Image by Shokichka (Flickr).

By DANIEL HOGAN

Barcelona is a captivating destination of picturesque beaches, abstract gothic architecture, and centuries of history. But of all the things to do in Barcelona, at its heart, it is a city that comes alive at night. Travellers from all over the world flock here with dreams of all-night extravaganzas – dancing till morning at one of Barcelona’s world-class clubs, taking shots they can’t pronounce with new best friends, and stumbling out at sunrise with a beautiful Catalonian on their arm. But no matter how many times they hear that things here start late, too many a tourist has fallen into the trap of showing up at a club at midnight and wondering what all the fuss is about. Luckily, Barcelona is also home to some of the wildest bars around. So while you wait till two in the morning for the clubs to get hot, here are a couple of interesting places that are guaranteed to lower those inhibitions and let you get loose on the dance floor.

Bar Dow Jones

For those looking to pass on the crowds and the prices of the infamous La Rambla bar-scene in lieu of something more unique, cruise down Avenida Diagonal, navigate down some back alleys, and keep your eyes peeled for Bar Dow Jones. As you step off the streets and into this Manhattan-esque dive bar, you’ll realize why it’s named after a New York stock exchange, and that’s where the fun begins. Dozens upon dozens of different types of shots and drinks are all displayed on digital monitors, all fluctuating in price based on demand. You’ll be exhilarated as the raucous tavern brings out your inner day-trader, hustling to get the cheap drink before the prices shoot up from demand. Take a break from the commotion and enjoy a game of pool at the venue’s billiards tables, or sip down one of their many delicious brews on tap. By the time the Dow Jones closes, you’ll be liquored up and ready to cab over to popular nearby clubs like BeCool and Razzamatazz.

Chupitos. CC Image by adriagarcia (Flickr).

Chupitos

The name of the place literally translates to shots. Lots and lots of shots. This Barri Gòtic bar specializes in the most extravagant and possibly unnecessary over-the-top shots you could ever imagine. Spanning across the entirety of the wall behind the long bar is a listing of hundreds of different types, and you’ll be lucky if you’ve even heard of a few dozen of them. The place is always packed with young partygoers looking to enjoy the show, and what a show it is. The bartenders incorporate fire and props into the drinks, and you’ll often find yourself either staring at a blue flame dancing on the surface of a shot glass or wearing an army helmet as the bartender-turned-drill-sergeant screams drinking orders at you. It’s nearly impossible to leave Chupitos without a good buzz, and is in a perfect location to enjoy the nearby clubs on the harbor.

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: bars in Paris, pubs in London, things to do in Barcelona, beaches in Los Angeles, festivals and concerts everywhere, and more.

Where to Spend Weekends Away with Friends in the UK

Barmouth Bay Holiday Park from the dunes. CC Image by Anne Roberts (Flickr).

If you’re part of a close-knit group who go out a lot for nights out, why not take it one stage further every now and then and have a weekend away somewhere. If you can all be in the same place and not have to worry about going home at the end of the night, you can relax more and get to catch up with everyone properly.

One thing that’s sometimes a bit off-putting about doing this is finding somewhere that is easy for everyone to get to and that suits any budget. You don’t want to make it exclusive because of price. That’s why renting a mobile home or holiday lodge on a holiday park is such a good idea. You can work out how many of you are going and if some people can only make it for one night while others stay for two or three, you can split the costs accordingly.

There’s a huge choice of different campsites and holiday parks in the UK. From caravan parks in Wales through to holiday parks in the Lakes or the Scottish Highlands, down to campsites on the Cornish coast, you’re never too far away from a great venue.

And just because you’ve got a kitchenette in a mobile home doesn’t mean you have to use it – there are often great country pubs near holiday parks, and many have their own bars and restaurants on-site. The other big advantage of staying on a holiday park is that if you get a rainy weekend, you can always make use of facilities like an indoor swimming pool. Some sites have amazing facilities – have a look what’s on offer near you, and see who you can persuade to join you for a weekend.

You never know, you may be starting off a new annual tradition for you and your mates!

Travel Blissful

Destination Ideas & Travel Advice for Happy Vacations