A Slower Way to Travel through Europe

The European continent as a whole is renowned throughout the world for it is beautiful and historic landmarks. Visitors flock to visit places like the Eiffel Tower and the Alhambra, and take those iconic photos to show their family and friends.

Travellers are also well aware of the efficient transportation systems boasted by many cities, and know they’ll be able to hop onto a bus, train or even low-cost airline from almost anywhere.

With all the hustle and bustle, it can be easy to overlook one of the most enjoyable ways to discover beautiful scenery and charming locales: by canal.

A lesser-known fact for many visitors, Europe is laced with a seemingly infinite number of rivers, canals and waterways that run from the largest cities to the tiniest of villages. They create a virtual highway for travellers visiting any area to glide to their destination aboard a rented canal boat.

Climbing aboard a canal boat is much easier than many may think- they are affordable and easy to handle, with no special sailing certification required.

These boats provide lodging during your stay, with comfortable berths as well as hot showers, toilets and galley kitchens for preparing anything from a light snack to a lavish meal.

Instead of the hectic bustle of large cities, travellers can enjoy picturesque views of the countryside, where each turn in the river presents a beautiful photo opportunity. There’s no need to wake up and rush off to join a crowd of anxious sight-seers; you’ll be able to linger over your morning coffee in the great outdoors before charting the day’s course and visiting small towns along the way.

Sample local delicacies right where they originate, and shop for fresh produce and provisions at stores along the river’s edge.

Being on a canal boat also offers families a chance to spend quality time together- imagine children’s delight at being able to help steer the boat and wave at people on land! Evenings can be spent on land dining at charming restaurants or in the cabin preparing meals together, watching films, reading or playing games.

You can plan to visit beautiful and iconic sites such as the windmills of the Netherlands, or the Norfolk Broads in the United Kingdom. Or, just choose a dazzling course such as the Canal Midi in the south of France.

Canal boating is also easy for the elderly, allowing you to travel with extended family and create lifelong memories abroad.

While certain city landmarks may be high on your to-do list, you can enjoy a relaxing cruise as the perfect balance to busy city excursions.

Best of all, renting a canal boat is much more affordable than many may think. Find out more at www.lateboat.com.

Choosing a Holiday Destination

When it comes to choosing a holiday destination, what do you look for? Each and every person will have their own holiday ‘must-have’ checklist when going through what they look for in a dream vacation, however it’s important to consider some of the main ideas that will apply to most people.

By making sure your holiday satisfies the following, you can ensure that the holiday you choose will really satisfy your needs, and you will not be disappointed. 

Let’s look at what you should consider.
Going For Relaxation
For many people, one of the top reasons for taking a holiday will be to get in some R & R. Resting over the course of your holiday is a great way to recharge your batteries so that you feel ready to get back to the busy pace of your day to day life.

This is a great choice for many couples who want to also spend a few romantic moments together, rekindling their love.

For many checking out some of the holiday parks in the UK are a great choice if this is your goal. However, some will prefer the beautiful scenic beaches that can be found a bit further afield. Whichever you prefer, make sure that the weather is as you desire and you’ve read many positive reviews about the destination.

Going For Discovery
On the other hand, some people seek discovery. If you’re interested in seeing new sights and what the world has to offer, you might consider going away to a destination rich in culture, visiting the castles or discovering the museums of the area.  There are many places all over the world that will have a lot of history deep in its roots; this can often be seen in the surroundings of that place, such as Greece, known for its remarkable preservation of buildings and temples dating back thousands of years.

Going For Family Fun
Want some family fun? If you’re traveling with kids, you’ll want to ensure your trip is as kid friendly as possible and often this means seeking out a theme park of sorts.

While you can always go to the major theme parks around the world, don’t overlook smaller, local attractions that offer activities for kids including swimming, pony trekking, as well as sports and games. You can find that there are many hotels that accommodate to these requirements with kids clubs of all sorts.

Going To Get Outside
Finally, if you’re someone who loves the great outdoors and this is your primary reason for travel, consider checking out some of the National Parks or head out to a cabin and do some adventure activities outside.

There’s plenty to see when you venture into the country areas, so copious amounts of choice for you to consider.

So there you have some great reasons to get away and where to consider going depending on what it is you want to do. Give some thought to your holiday and you can ensure it’s one you’ll never forget.

Whatever travel solutions you are after, make sure that you have done a thorough amount of research so that you can have a holiday you will not forget.

A first-timer’s Guide to Sydney

With some magnificent landmarks in its kitty, a jam-packed event calendar, nerve racking adventure activities and an assortment of culinary delights for your differently trained palate; Sydney, synonymous with its impressive Opera amazes you with its armoury of allures. With so much on offer and an array of activities to indulge in, first timers often find it difficult to explore Sydney in a short time.

Team Carlton Leisure ambles across the city and jots down smaller tid-bits to make your travel convenient.

Sydney spectacles

Sydney Opera House:
The structure that has become one with identity of Sydney leaves your eyes popping out with its impressive facade and equally entertaining interiors.

Sydney Harbour:
You won’t be forgiven for not visiting Sydney harbour. It is like missing Eiffel Tower in Paris and Big Ben in London.

Darling Harbour:

Darling harbour is a perfect place for those who are on a family trip. With various recreational options and shopping hubs this tourists attractions is a pleasant delight for tourists.

Beach bums in Sydney:

If you are a beach bum then remain sure to get entertained in Sydney. A glittering trinity of sand, surf and sea awaits your arrival at Bondi beach.

Height of Pleasure at Blue Mountains:
If your trip is getting monotonous you can head for Blue Mountains and catch the amazing glimpse of limestone Jenolan caves.

Gorge on culinary delights:
With an array of places for sophisticated eating and beach side eating joints, Sydney offers you treat to your taste buds.

Bagful of Memories:
Want to buy something for souvenir or something luxurious, there is no dearth of options. Queen Victoria Building and Strand Arcade are major places to shop.

Armed with valuable information, board your flights to Sydney with confidence and get hooked with harbour city forever.

Vacationing in Belfast and Having a Blast

A vacation, even for just one weekend, can give your mind and body a refreshing change from a hectic and deadline-driven work life. If you are looking for the perfect vacation where the comforts and conveniences of the city are still within reach, Belfast is the best choice.

The capital city of Northern Ireland is the perfect getaway if you are not keen on camping out or spending time at the beach on a cold weather. In Belfast, you can have a fantastic vacation while exploring the rich culture and history in this part of Ireland.

Things to Do in Belfast

Belfast is a wonderful place to spend a vacation. You can check out as many attractions as you want around the city, or focus on a single tour and then while away the rest of the time for spontaneous activities. For the best time in the city, here are a few of the most recommended activities for you to choose from.

Your first stop should be the city center where the famous Belfast City Hall is situated. Join one of the free 45-minute tours inside the government building and marvel at the amazing Edwardian architectural design. From there, more buildings and attractions await.

The cultural quarters of Belfast are also places to check out in the city. The Titanic, Cathedral, Queen’s and Gaeltacht Quarters cater to every taste and curiosity. Take a pick from these choices or tour each of them, depending on how much time you have in the city or your general preferences.

Gastronomic destinations in the city offer a variety of delights and specialties expertly crafted by Belfast’s best chefs. Pubs, cafes and bars are in abundance as well in the city. If you are looking forward to some nightlife, there are plenty of bars in the area to choose from.

Parks and gardens are great destinations for those who want a nature-oriented tour of the city. With over 40 lovely parks and gardens, you will never run out of places to have a picnic, a stroll or a jog. Bringing along kids is not a problem in Belfast as there are lots of options to entertain them. The annual Rose Week features 20,000 blooms and even more.

The Odyssey Arena, Titanic Belfast and the W5 in the Titanic Quarter are popular destinations for kids. Science exploration, sports, music, ice-skating and the Titanic experience will make your kids want to stay longer in the city.

With lots of options in the city, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. As mentioned, the choice if yours if you want an eventful vacation or a quiet one. Whichever you choose, Belfast is a great place to unwind as well as discover the culture of Ireland.

Book a room  Northern Ireland hotel and have the time of your life!

Ireland city breaks - Where Hospitality is Prime Attraction

Idyllically nestled in North Western Europe; Ireland, a small country with big hallo charms tourists with picturesque landscape, ageless monuments and to top it all, extremely hospitable people. The laid-back land offers a welcome change from its jet set peers. The city generally blessed by natures and gently caressed by its people offers looking for a change from routine life often look to fly to Ireland to get a rejuvenating touch here.

As this land has so much to offer in terms of monuments, beaches, sports, and hospitality, tourists can’t be blamed for jumping at the chance of Ireland city breaks.

Here we are providing a lowdown on major things that should be covered while on Ireland city breaks.

Dublin:
The capital of Ireland boasts of magnificent architecture, world famous educational institutions, impressive history and welcoming hospitality.

Cork:
This chic cousin of Dublin has art galleries, festivals, bars and amazing shopping options as popular haunts. These features earned it the nickname of European capital of culture.

Galway:
Beautifully nestled on the Galway Bay, the city is hub of festivals, culture and music. This proud host to fifty festivals in a year brim with energy round the year.

Killarney:
This acclaimed tourist destination has a magnetic appeal over tourists. Strewn with numerous lakes and perched against a mountainous backdrop it casts a magical spell over visitors.

Kilkenny:
This small town which lovingly hugs River Nore from both the sides presents a heady cocktail of glittering nightlife, great culture and amazing shopping options.

Besides these popular urban hubs, the country is also home to some small yet important towns, which deserve to be explored. So book an air ticket to Ireland and explore the country that looks ravishing every time you explore it.

How I Save Money on My Holidays

If you are looking for a holiday that is affordable then there are lots of ways you can ensure you get the most out of your money.

Booking Early – “The Early bird catches the worm”

Most holiday providers work on the demand and supply theory which affects the cost of your holiday.  What does this mean for someone booking a holiday?  When there are plenty of rooms available at a resort it is often cheaper to get a deal because they need to ensure all their rooms sell. 

By booking advanced “early bird offers” you can get some of the best deals available, it pays to plan ahead.  Early bird offers make an appearance in January so welcome your New Year with some holiday shopping.   When the January sales are on I do not hit the high street but the Travel Operators.

Last Minute – “Patience is a virtue”

Last minute deals are also great to save money, working on the same principle as booking early if your holiday date is very close and there is plenty of supply.  Holiday providers want to ensure they have maximum occupancy thus giving some flexibility in pricing to those wanting a break.   Sometimes this is difficult when you have children and work so I prefer Mystery Breaks and Top Secret Hotels

Mystery Hotel Breaks are as they seem, you decide to go on a short break but add some spontaneity to it by letting the Holiday provider decide on where you go and where you stay.  If the thought of having little say in your break seems unnerving then choose the Top Secret Hotels option.  Simply decide on the location of where you wish to stay and leave the Hotel as surprise.  How does this all work? Many large Hoteliers do not like to advertise their rooms at less than their normal market rate so by keeping it a “secret” they can still ensure they fill up any last minute empty rooms.   Last year I booked a top secret hotel in London the night before and saved 50% on the price of my stay and I managed to remain close to the landmarks I needed to get to.

Look after the pennies and the pounds will look after themselves. 

Once you have decided on where you are going to spend your holiday think about all the ways you can continue to save. 

Currency – Make the most of converting your pounds

Look at the best exchange rates and shop around.  Many places that offer currency exchange offer it commission free but do their exchange rates compare to those who may apply a small commission charge.  In effect you will often notice that commission free deals often eat into the exchange rate so you lose money without noticing it.  Sometimes it can pay to take your pounds to the location you are travelling to and doing the exchange there.  But it is imperative you do your research as some countries have restrictions on the amount of money you can take with you.  I avoid exchanging my money here so I remain within budget at get a great rate.

Avoid the use of credit cards and debit cards which often incur additional charges.  You may have had a wonderful holiday and thought you had financially stayed within budget until you receive your credit card or bank statement in the post filled with charges and commission you were not expecting.

Remember that once you travel abroad that some countries may be more expensive that your own.  You may find your pound will not stretch as far as you thought and many daily items cost more than what you would pay at home.  You may have bagged a great discounted break but suddenly the costs you incur once you arrive start mounting up.

Economies of scale – Buy in Bulk

Remember that old saying if you buy in bulk than you could end up making savings.  By choosing to travel in large groups you can often get some amazing deals by negotiating.  These savings can be spread across the group so you all benefit by paying less for that important break.

Families – Put things into perspective

Never forget that we always put our families and children at the forefront of our decision making.  Children don’t appreciate the monetary cost and value of things.  Have you ever spent hundreds of pounds on a top of the range toy to see your child playing in the kitchen with your cooking utensils?  It does not make sense to book a break to the Maldives with the tropical sands, sea and breath taking scenery if you are travelling with children who have not yet acquired an appreciation of such things.   A camping trip is far more exciting, cooking family meals in the outdoors budgeting meals and commuting to local beaches and attractions possibly more enjoyable for them and your pocket.

Be A Meercat and keep your eyes peeled

Keep your eyes open for available deals by subscribing to newsletters and offers within the travel sector.  This will keep you up to date with great deals and will save you time researching the costs of your holiday.  

About Author:

Shalina is a travel writer for a UK website offering ways to save on short breaks and holidays. Visit the website here