Showing posts with label holidays. Show all posts
Showing posts with label holidays. Show all posts

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!