Theme parks for kids in Spain

 May 16th, 2012 – Written by Markus Steen

Spain offers some of the best theme parks in the world. What makes theme parks in Spain so unique is that they’re exceptionally clean, incredibly affordable, rarely overcrowded and often situated near scenic landscapes. Don’t let the small crowds and affordable prices fool you. These theme parks also offer everything from thrilling rides to friendly cartoon characters. This combination makes theme parks in Spain the perfect option for people traveling with kids. Let’s take a look at some of the most popular options.

One of Port Aventura's water rides

Terra Mitica in Benidorm

Would you like to visit Egypt, Greece, Rome, Iberia and The Islands all within one day? If so, then you need to visit Terra Mitica. Think of this as the Epcot Center of Spain, where numerous cultures collide. The biggest difference is that here you can find more rides. For instance, you can try the looping roller coaster in Greece, the upside-down roller coaster in Rome, and the water coaster in Egypt.

If you choose to visit Benidorm, then you will be able to choose from numerous self-catering villas. If you’re traveling on a budget, then look for affordable apartments.

Tivoli in Costa del Sol

This is easily the most affordable theme park in Spain. What will you get for less than $10 per person? You can try out the roller coasters, bumper cars, go-karts, free-fall and more. If you choose the go-karts, they will keep track of who has the fastest time over several laps, which is very cool. If you can handle being frightened, then also be sure to check out Terror Tivoli, which is similar to a haunted house. There are also shows that include dance, magic, Zorro Adventures and Super Cats.

Costa del Sol is home to hundreds of holiday rentals. If you book early, then you can usually save up to 40 percent.

Port Aventura in Salou

Would you like to travel to the Far West, where you can ride steam engines, go on a lightning-fast roller coaster and eat hamburgers and hot dogs? Would you prefer to visit Mexico, where you can explore ancient ruins? How about Polynesia, where you can make your way through the jungle and watch a 4D Sea Odyssey? Would you like to marvel at Chinese architecture? Why not add SesemoAventura to the list, where your children can go on kiddie rides and meet Sesame Street characters? All of this is possible at Port Aventura.

If you choose to stay in Salou, you will have many options, which include upscale hotels and holiday rentals.

Oasis Park in Fuerteventura

Oasis Park Zoo & Botanical Gardens offers 200,000 square feet of botanical gardens and 200 animal species. The botanical gardens can be seen by foot or camel safari. We recommend the latter for a more memorable experience. The zoo features monkeys, alligators, giraffes, zebras, and much more. The shows are the best part of the zoo, and they include a sea lion show, a parrot show and a reptile show. Also be sure to check out the Birds of Prey exhibit.

Fuerteventura is moderately priced. For less than £150 per week, it’s possible to find a holiday rental with a pool and a golf course or sea view.

Warner Brothers in Madrid

Have your kids ever dreamed of meeting Bugs Bunny? Do you think they would enjoy exploring Gotham City, where it’s possible to meet Batman? These are two big selling points for Warner Brothers, but there is so much more. The Yogi 3D Show is a big hit, the Robin Hood musical if often raved about by guests and the Looney Tunes Cartoon Village is a place no one ever wants to leave. Rides include a roller coaster, log flume and tea cups. There are also several restaurants and shops.

If you stay in Madrid, then you will find everything from incredibly cheap apartment rentals to astounding and pricey rental homes.

Marineland Majorca in Calvia

This place is definitely unique. There is so much going on that it’s difficult to keep track. First off, this is a turtle rescue center. Therefore, you know they’re doing a good deed and you will have an opportunity to see many different types of turtles. Just as impressive is that this park overlooks the sea, which makes every moment breathtaking. As far as entertainment goes, it’s all about the shows. The sea lion show and parrot show are neat, but the dolphin show is by far the big event. When you’re tired after walking around, they have their own private beach.

If you want to stay in Majorca and you want to do it right, then consider staying in a farmhouse or flat that offers 180-degree sea views.

Tibidabo Fun Park in Barcelona

This is an interesting theme park for several reasons. What stands out most is that it’s situated on top of a mountain, which means you will have panoramic views of Barcelona as well as the sea. You can also enjoy more views by taking the funicular up the side of the mountain. The rides here are old-fashioned, but that’s meant in a good way. There is a nostalgic aura that is appreciated by most guests. The rides include piggy trains, a Ferris wheel and a roller coaster. Also be sure to check out the haunted house, which features live actors. Not everyone opts to investigate the old and unique cathedral at the top of the mountain, but it’s highly recommended.

If you stay in Barcelona, then go for the luxury loft. It will be expensive compared to other options mentioned here, but it will be well worth the price.

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Take a city break in Brussels

 May 14th, 2012 – Written by Kerryn

Just two hours away by Eurostar is the beautiful city of Brussels. The unique mix of French and Flemish culture has created a fascinating city with amazing architecture and wonderful museums and galleries. With countless tourist attractions, and located less than 2 hours from London, it’s the perfect place to take a city break.

Grand Place in Brussels

Explore the streets

Staying in self-catering Brussels accommodation will give you the chance to explore the attractive medieval streets. The old city center is easily explored on foot. Here you’ll find the Grand Place, a World Heritage site that is a blaze of colour in August during the annual Flower Carpet. You’ll find the square is surrounded by gorgeous guildhouses in Flemish baroque style. On the west end is the Gothic Hôtel de Ville (City Hall) and opposite that is the Musée de la Ville de Bruxelles. Eat waffles and Belgian chocolate while you people-watch at one of the many cafés that surround the bustling square.

When you’ve seen all that you want to at the Grand Place, a short walk away you’ll find Brussels’ famous mascot, the cheeky “Manneken Pis”. Tourist information and possible walking routes around the city are available from the Brussels Tourism Office at the Grand Place. Daily bike tours allow you to see the main sights in approximately 3.5 hours.

On a city break in Brussels you should also make time to see some of the fantastic collection of art in the city. When you’re touring the city you’ll get to see the Art Nouveau Horta Museum, the Museum of Fine Art, and Surreal art at the Magritte Museum, to name just a few.

Other attractions you won’t want to miss are the Comic Strip Centre, St Michel’s Cathedral, the Royal Palace and Parks, the Parc du Cinquantenaire-Jubelpark, the unique Atomium, and the Brussels Beer Museum. The real beauty of Brussels though, lies in small cafés, charming chocolate shops and undiscovered gems that await visitors around every corner.

Fill your bags

A Brussels city break is the perfect opportunity to fill your bags with goodies. The fashion-conscious can buy trendy clothes at fashion boutiques on rue Antoine Dansaert. The Belgians are master-chocolatiers so you can’t stay in a Brussels holiday apartment and not come home with some tasty chocolates. And don’t forget about the fabulous antiques. There is no better place to shop for antiques than the cobbled streets of the Sablon district. Round off your Brussels city break with a trip to the Jeu de Balle weekend market.

Spend an afternoon out

Although there is plenty to see and do in Brussels, cities like Ghent and Bruges are an easy train ride from the city and worth a visit if you want to spend an afternoon out. In Ghent you can visit Saint Bavo Cathedral, St. Nicholas’ Church, the Museum Voor Vormgeving and Gravensteen (Castle of the Count). In beautiful Bruges you can cruise the canals, amble through the Beguinage gardens or enjoy the view from the Church of Our Lady.

Whether you’ve come to enjoy the local brew, to buy antiques, to indulge in chocolate or just to enjoy the delightful blend of French and Flemish culture, Brussels is a great destination for a short city break in Europe.

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Summer in the land of fire and ice

 May 11th, 2012 – Written by Kerryn

The mid-Atlantic island of Iceland is an amazing, unspoilt wilderness that has everything from spewing geysers, ancient volcanoes and vast glaciers to beautiful waterfalls, and geothermal pools. In spring and summer the country is washed in over 20 hours of sunlight each day and the tourist seasons gets into full swing. Whether you are there to relax, admire or explore, the land of fire and ice has it all.

Hiking in Iceland

Relax in Reykjavik

Reykjavik is the capital of Iceland and is a delightful combination of small town charm and big-city energy. The colourful town is a place that cannot fail to endear even the most cynical of travelers and is a great place to be based during a trip to Iceland. It is home to cosy cafés, world-class shopping and trendy clubs and bars. The best way to see the city is by taking a walk along the scenic pathway that circles most of the city. If you plan on being based in the capital city for a while it’s worth it to get a Reykjavik Tourist Card, which will give you unlimited access to buses, as well as free entrance to a number of the cities museums and galleries. There are fantastic places to visit including the Reykjavik Cathedral, Reykjavik Art Museum, Hallgrímskirkja and Reykjavik Botanical Gardens. The capital is also the hub of the cultural scene and you’ll find there are plenty of art galleries, theaters and festivals to entertain you. You also can’t miss the chance to relax in one of the geothermal swimming pools in Reykjavik like Laugardalslaug or Árbæjarlaug. There is no better place to soak the stress away than in a geothermal pool!

Admire and Explore

The scenery in Iceland is nothing short of spectacular. Vatnajökull National Park should feature on any tour of Iceland. The national park is home to Iceland’s highest mountain, Hvannadalshnúkur, largest glacier, Vatnajökull, and Europe’s largest volume waterfall, Dettifoss. Other places you won’t want to miss seeing are Gullfoss Waterfall, Stokkur Geyser, Domadulur Valley and the volcanic islands of Vestmannaeyjar.

There are guided coach tours that allow you to see as much as possible in a short space of time. If you’d prefer to go at your own pace you can hire a car or bicycles, go hiking or even river rafting to explore the untamed wilderness of Iceland. In Northern Iceland is Hornstrandir, which is the ideal place to combine bird watching and hiking and is definitely the place to go if you want to watch the amusing antics of puffins. You may also want to take a whale watching boat trip while you’re staying in an Iceland holiday rental.

Golf enthusiasts can even get a round in during a holiday in Iceland. Thorlakshöfn Golf Course has spectacular ocean view and nearby you’ll find geothermal pools and waterslides where you can relax after a day on the golf course.

When you’re done exploring and admiring all that Iceland has to offer you can dine at one of the superb restaurants in Reykjavik where you’ll find dishes like whale steaks, puffins in blueberry sauce, seared sheep head and ram’s testicles on the menu. If your stomach is not feeling quite so adventurous you can always buy fresh produce at the farmers markets in Southern Iceland and prepare your own meal in the comfort of your Iceland holiday rental.

If you are an avid traveller and want to experience a spectacular destination, the land of fire and ice may be just what you’re looking for.

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Touring Ireland’s best pubs

 May 8th, 2012 – Written by Kerryn

Irish pubs are famous throughout the world for their warm hospitality, superb folk music, and good food. One of the best ways to get insight into the Irish people and culture is to do a tour of Ireland’s best pubs, and along the way you’ll get to see some of the most picturesque landscapes Ireland has to offer. So grab a pint, make yourself comfortable and enjoy the sounds of cailins, flutes and fiddles when you’re touring Ireland’s best pubs.

Dublin

Trinity College in Dublin

Dublin is home to Ireland’s oldest pub, The Brazen Head, which has been around since 1198. It has an excellent menu and superb traditional Irish music. Located just a short distance from Christchurch Cathedral and The Guinness Brewery, this historic pub is a must-see on any pub-crawl itinerary. When you’re staying in a Dublin holiday apartment you’ll also get to see attractions like Dublin Castle, Dublin City Hall, the Irish Museum of Modern Art, Kilmainham Gaol, Malahide Castle, and the Old Jameson Distillery. When you’ve enjoyed a day exploring the city you can refuel at Abbey Tavern or O’Donoghue’s on Baggot Street, which are both excellent choices if you’re looking for a pub with great atmosphere, superb music and of course good Irish brew.

Cork

Bantry House gardens

Cork City is packed with traditional pubs to suit every taste, whether you enjoy humming along to folk music or just enjoying a quiet pint. An Spailpín Fanach, Scotts Bar, The Castle Inn, Sin E, Franciscan Well Brewery and The Long Valley are all popular choices. While you’re staying in a Cork holiday rental you can also tour Bantry House and Gardens, visit Charles Fort or kiss the Blarney Stone.

Kilkenny

Kilkenny Castle

Kilkenny is home of Kilkenny Irish Beer and should be included in any pub tour of Ireland. There are numerous charming pubs in the town of Kilkenny, including Caislean Ui Cuain, Kyteler’s Inn, Eamon Langton’s, Tynan’s Bridge House and Marble City Bar and Tea Rooms. When you’re not visiting Kilkenny pubs, there are historic sites you can explore such as Kilkenny Castle, Butler House, St. Canice’s Cathedral, St. Mary’s Cathedral, Kilkenny Town Hall, St. Francis Abbey, Grace’s Castle, and St. John’s Priory.

County Clare

Cliffs in Ireland

If you’re looking for traditional pubs in out-of-the-way little Irish villages then County Clare is the perfect place to go. The friendly rural villages are home to delightful pubs such as McGann’s or Gus O’ Connors Pub in Doolin, The Irish Arms in Lisdoonvarna, Comerfords in Doonbeg, or Monks Bar in Ballyvaughan. County Clare is also a great destination if you want to enjoy the great outdoors and beautiful views. You can explore the rugged Cliffs of Moher and the limestone karsts of Burren by hiking on marked routes throughout the region. The area is also popular with those who enjoy cycling, bird watching and photography.

These are just a few of the best pubs in Ireland, but you can be sure that wherever you find yourself in the Emerald Isle you’ll be able to find a fantastic little pub to relax and enjoy great Irish hospitality.

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A weekend break in superb Swansea

 May 4th, 2012 – Written by Kerryn

For a weekend break where you can experience panoramic scenery and enjoy the great outdoors, Swansea and the Gower Peninsula is fantastic. Located on the beautiful South Wales coast, Swansea is on the doorstep of one of the most tranquil parts of Wales. Peaceful, picturesque and within easy reach, it’s everything you need in a weekend break.

A beach in Swansea

Swansea and Mumbles

The city of Swansea has a fascinating history, with much of the original architecture lost during bombing in World War 2. However there are still parts of the town that live on to tell fascinating tales of the past, like the Georgian and Victorian architecture on Wind Street and the historic maritime quarter, where you’ll find the marina, theaters, cafes, bars, restaurants and attractions like National Waterfront Museum, Swansea Museum, the Dylan Thomas Centre and the LC leisure complex and water park.

In the city you’ll also find Swansea Market, the largest indoor market in Wales, which can’t be missed when you’re staying in a self-catering cottage in Swansea and the Gower Peninsula. Here you can buy the catch of the day, laverbread, salt marsh lamb, delicacies such as cockles, and of course traditional welshcakes.

One of the main reasons tourists come to Swansea is for the beautiful coastline. The golden sand and calm water of Swansea Bay and Gower’s Oxwich Bay are ideal for watersports such as swimming, skiing, and kayaking. You’ll also find some of the UK’s best surfing spots along the Gower Peninsula, like Llangenith, Caswell Bay and Langland Bay. For a fantastic day out, pack a picnic lunch and head to Worms Head via the beautiful Rhossili Bay.

Sitting on the southern tip of Swansea Bay is the breezy seaside village of Mumbles, where you’ll find outstanding restaurants, quaint cafés, and fashionable boutiques. The Mumbles promenade offers a magnificent panoramic view over Swansea Bay. The seaside village is home to the Mediaeval Oystermouth Castle and is referred to as the “gateway to the Gower Peninsula”, making it a great base from which to explore this part of Wales.

The Gower Peninsula

Less than 15 minutes from Swansea are the stunning hills of the 19-mile long Gower Peninsula. The Gower coastline is comprised of dramatic limestone cliffs, sandy beaches and rocky inlets. It’s an excellent place to go hiking, cycling or horse riding. The Mumbles Tourist Information Centre has information on the variety of coastal walks you can take and the various places of interest you can see along the way. The routes are generally well marked and you’ll get to see attractions like the wonderful Botanical Gardens in Singleton Park. Not only does the Gower Peninsula have spectacular coastal views, in addition, there is scenic open moorland, woodland and heath inland, and plenty of country pubs where you can rest for a while and enjoy a pint. Other attractions along the Gower Peninsula include Arthur’s Stone, Giants Grave burial chamber, Iron Age forts, Weobley Castle and Pennard Castle.

With such gorgeous countryside around Swansea and Gower Peninsula who wouldn’t want a weekend break here?

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