Tuesday 16 February 2016

Common Packing Mistakes NOT to make

Whilst every site claims to have ‘the ultimate packing guide’ this one may not be the ‘ultimate’, it is perfect for those who want to desperately avoid making packing mistakes. No matter how many times you’ve travelled abroad, there are still some common mistakes you might make.

    1.       Over packing
Ok, so you’ve probably already heard the rule about laying everything out on your bed before packing, and then only allowing yourself to pack half the amount on the bed. Resisting the urge to pack items ‘just in case’ can be the hardest thing! I know, I’ve been there, but you’ll save money paying for an overweight bag and more importantly you won’t have a back like the hunchback of Notre dame after!

           2.       Secure your liquids
When I first started travelling, I didn’t really give much thought to large bottles of conditioner leaking in my suitcase, until…you guessed it…I arrive in Greece to discover my favourite playsuit covered in Aussie conditioner – lovely. From then on I’ve always placed the bottles in a clear, lockable bag and I even then put that bag in a plastic bag – for extra protection!

3.       Stick to the rules
Whilst many of us pray that the airline staff won’t ask us to squeeze our (obviously too big) cabin bag into the measuring box, just in case they make us pay the extra to put it into the hold. So apart from having the right sized bag and avoiding the panic sweat when you see the staff eyeing your bag. It’s important to always stick to the 100ml rule for liquids when travelling with only hand luggage!

     4.       Always pack your valuables in your hand luggage
For security reasons it’s always a good idea to pack any of your valuables in your hand luggage, and remember to make sure that your bag is securely fastened with a zip and a small padlock.

           5.       Not packing appropriately for your destination
Remember to always read up about the weather before you go, with weather predictions nowadays you can get a good idea of the temperature and climate months before you even get there.



Remember that anything you forget to pack you can buy in the country your visiting, whether that be in the airport or in the local city! 

Monday 18 January 2016

Top 5 European City Breaks for 2016

Eeek first blog post of 2016 - welcome! 

As it’s officially ‘blue Monday’, why not check out some of coolest European cities to visit this 2016 and book something to look forward too.

Barcelona
Although Barcelona has been on the radar for a few years now, 2016 will see the city come into its own, with visitors not just coming for the nice weather, but to explore the wonders of the city itself. It offers something for everyone, with a patchwork of architectural styles, world class restaurants, family run tapas bars, top cocktail bars and quaint coffee shops – whether you fancy seeing the sights or just enjoying the relaxed pace of life then this city is for you. Why not spend the day at one of the city’s 7 beaches? Or take a tour of the enchanting Sagrada Familia? The possibilities are endless.

If you have the money to spend then why not splurge and stay in The 1898 Hotel, located right in the city centre. Budget a bit tight? Then go for Hotel Jazz, still right in the buzz but without the price tag.


Venice
With Venice already drawing large crowds in the summer, it’s best to visit the beautiful water city in the spring. Venice's churches and museums offer antique sites and plenty of flea markets for you to stock up on these vintage goodies. After wandering round St. Mark’s square, visiting the Basilica, why not treat yourself to a relaxing gondola ride on the Grand Canal, running through the city.

Spend at: Hotel Al Ponte Mocenigo if you want some luxury.
Traveling on a budget? Then take a look at The Albergo Marin


Rome
The challenge when visiting Rome is deciding what not to do - there are so many basilicas, archaeological sites, coffee shops, piazzas and paintings to see that you cannot possible fit it all into one trip. Apart from the Colosseum, the Pantheon, the Trevi Fountain, St. Peter’s Basilica, the Villa Borghese there are so many cafes, restaurants and bars to visit! Short for time? Hope on a Segway tour and check out the city on two wheels.

If you want to treat yourself to absolute luxury right in the city center then look no further than Hotel Dharma. However, the service is equally as good at the Via der Gabrielli, which is located right next to the Geleteria del Teatro!


Amsterdam
Amsterdam is a city that has really come into its own in the past few years, drawing visitors from all over the world. The city is small enough to walk or cycle almost anywhere you want, yet rarely is there a dull moment, from visiting the red light district to Anne Frank’s House to the Van Gohh Museum – there really is a variety of attractions!

The Toren is ranked #1 on TripAdvisor for hotels in Amsterdam – and you can’t really beat that! Although, if you want the location but need to negotiate the price then try a Holiday Inn, they are dotted all over the city so you can take your pick of locations.



So there you have it – my top list of up and coming cites you must visit in 2016. Have you been to any of these places before? Got any tips or suggestions? I’d love to hear from you, just comment below!

Sunday 13 December 2015

Christmas Travel Special

Ok, so it’s officially 12 days till Christmas (eek!) and if you’re anything like me, then you will have left plans (including buying presents…) right up until the last minute. So if you find yourself lacking in Christmas plans and lusting after a Christmas getaway then take a look at these European cities for a last minute deal.

Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen is Scandinavia's most vibrant and affordable capital, although it's small, the people are extremely welcoming and the city is beautiful decorated. The city’s Tivoli Gardens are transformed annually by half a million lights and thousands of Christmas trees and form a magnificent centrepiece to your festive meandering. There are plenty of Christmas markets going on, right up until the 25th – so there’s still time to grab those last minute presents!


New York, USA
It couldn’t not be on the list! The city that never sleeps inevitably rules the roost when it comes to Christmas decorations and shop displays (check out Gimbal’s display, it’s always magnificent!). With the potential for snow, plenty of ice rinks, and more mulled wine than you can drink, you really can loose track of time around the city.

Lapland, Finland
This magical place is not just for kids! Father Christmas’s home town is a must for anyone who still believes in the magic of Christmas. With the Santa Clays Village and Santa Park being the most popular attractions a t this time of year, make sure you buy your tickets before you book the flight – otherwise you might be left disappointed. Don’t forget to pack your thermals and some carrots for the reindeer!


Edinburgh, Scotland
As you may have already guessed…with Edinburgh being one of my favourite cities in the world, had to be on the list! Christmas is certainly done in style up in Scotland, from numerous markets to
Why not enjoy panoramic views of the capital from the top of the Big Wheel, or spin around on the charming carousel in East Princes Street Gardens. Oh and why not extend your trip and stay for the world famous Hogmanay celebration on New Year’s Eve!



Wherever you may end up this Christmas, I wish you a very magical Christmas and a happy, healthy and prosperous 2016 – speak to you soon!


P.s in case you were wondering…of course I’ll be celebrating Christmas and NYE in Scotland! 

Friday 4 September 2015

Holidaying For Less

Are you on a tight budget but still want to go on holiday? Don’t fear, I have complied a list of some of the best holiday spots in the UK. Now it may not have guaranteed sunshine, but there are plenty of places to explore that won’t break the bank. Dying to hear about these spots? Well then read on…

1. Pick up the tempo in the Peaks

The Peak District is undeniably one of my favourite places to visit in England, with rolling hills as far as the eye can see, every time we go back we really love the peace and tranquillity. With it not being as popular at the Lake District, it doesn't attract the same number of visitors, meaning that you might not bump into anyone for hours – which we love! If you haven’t been before then I would recommend renting a cottage in Bakewell, a picturesque village in the heart of the National Park, or if you fancy staying in a hotel then I would recommend The Losehill House Hotel & Spa for that added touch of luxury, located in the Hope Valley it is pretty central to plenty of activities. Be prepared for lots of hiking/walking and cream teas in quaint village tea rooms.



2. Hiking in the Highlands

Depending on where you live in the country will depend on how easy it is for you to reach Scotland, but if you are lucky enough to live close enough to drive then this really is an ideal holidaying spot. If you want a relaxing intimate holiday, then why not try a little city in the Scottish Highlands called Inverness. Take a look at the Visit Scotland site to have a look at different guest houses, cottages, B&B’s and hotels that you can stay in. Explore the ruins of historic castles and hike around some of the most beautiful scenery in Scotland, not to mention the winter sports on offer here too, from skiing to snowboarding – experience everything in the highlands!



3. Walking in Wales

The Brecon Beacons is an ideal holiday destination, although the weather is often very wet, that doesn't distract from the beautiful scenery and an abundance of walking trails. Pen y Fan is over 886m high and is the literal highlight of the Beacons, giving spectacular views of nearly all of the National Park. Table Mountain is another very well-known place to visit, featuring walks along Iron Age hill front and panoramic views of the Usk valley and Black Mountains – it’s breath-taking, quite literally after the hike!



4. Catch up with the Coastline

You can’t beat a good beach, the sand in your toes and the fish and chips – but a beach with a castle, I mean wow! There is nothing more dramatic that the looming Bamburgh Castle on the Northumberland coast, it isn't necessarily the most popular coastline in the UK, but I think that’s what makes it so special. So go and explore the gold beaches, outdoor cinemas and ruins of the old castle.



5. Lap it up in the Lakes

Although many people confuse the Lake District with the Peak District, there are some significant differences. The Lake Districts is by far and away the UK's most popular national park. Every year, some 15 million people pitch up to explore the region's fells and countryside, and it's not hard to see why. The park is awash with outdoor opportunities, from lake cruises to mountain hikes, however, many visitors come to explore the houses and literature works of some of the most famous; William Wordsworth, Beatrix Potter and John Ruskin all found inspiration in the National Park.




So there are my top places to travel in the UK, have you been to any of these places? Or do you think I’ve missed places off that are a must see?!

Useful resources:
www.visitscotland.com
www.losehillhouse.co.uk
www.lakedistrict.gov.uk
www.beacons-npa.gov.uk
www.peakdistrict.gov.uk

Monday 3 August 2015

My Top 3 Lazy Summer Destinations

1. Greek Islands (yep ALL of them!)

Because who doesn't love white sandy beaches, blue waves and a cocktail in hand?! Although I'm very much an explorer, I head to Greece if I feel the need for a bit of downtime and relaxation. So far I've visited Mykonos, Rhodes, Kos and Santorini. Next summer I hope to travel to Skiathos! 



2. Sorrento - Italy

I adore Italy, it's definitely joint top spot with Greece for my summer holidays. I'm a girl who loves food, and there's nothing better than an authentic bowl of Italian pasta. You just can't beat it, it makes the UK chain 'Italians' look a laughing stock. Sorrento is perfect for lazing, it has a slow atmosphere, but not in a bad way it's just relaxing. I spend my days wandering down by the water, chilling on a sun lounger and taking in my beautiful surroundings. 


3. Sharm El Sheikh

A fantastic beach destination with guaranteed sunshine and hot hot temperatures! I think Sharm is a love or hate place but having been twice I personally love it. It's a good option if you want a few days of lazing mixed with a bit of action - it's one of the best places in the world for diving! The vibes at night time are great too with lots of open air lounging spots and bars.