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● Laura Thornberry ● Lifestyle Blogger ● London Based ●

GUEST POST| The Spanish Balearic Islands are classic holiday destinations. Ibiza is the original clubbing isle, Majorca has all the sun, sea, sand, and whatever else you need, and for families, there is Menorca. For holidaymakers on a budget, there are lots of options on all the islands. Here is a quick tour of five of the best no matter what kind of getaway you want this summer.

Balearic islands

Majorca – Port de Soller
The Balearic Island of Majorca has undergone a reinvention over the last few years. You can still find the stereotypical package holiday antics, but you must go looking for them. Port de Soller is a fantastic and family-friendly town on the Northwest coast. It is perfect for people on a budget and far away from clubbing and the ‘bar street’ mayhem.

In the towns, you will find family-run hotels that offer good value stays for families and couples. It provides the perfect place to stay to enjoy a well-deserved rest. The nearby beach is perfect for getting a tan. If you are looking for ways to get back into your bikini, meal replacement shakes are a convenient way to do it. Shake That Weight shakes are a low-cost, high-protein drink that helps you lose excess weight. Get yourself ready to hit the sand with confidence.

Ibiza – San Antonio
Need to party on a budget? Ibiza is the ideal destination. It has worked hard to earn a party island reputation, and there are low-cost options aplenty available, so everyone can join in.

San Antonio is party central on Ibiza, though Playa d’en Bossa and Ibiza Town are also good shouts. Budget accommodation is everywhere on the island, depending on what time of year you go. Save yourself some money and travel outside the peak summer season, which is between late June and late September. Prices can skyrocket during this period. There are family-friendly places to stay on the island, but they can be more expensive than the options you have elsewhere in the Balearics.

Menorca – Ciutadella
This destination is a little inland, so you are going to need to catch the bus to the beach or drive a car. The savings you make on accommodation will pay for it, though. Ciutadella is an old town and a well-kept secret amongst savvy holidaymakers. The charming medieval town is rich in history. With streets lined with churches, palaces and fortresses, a visit to Ciutadella is undoubtedly worth the travel. After visiting all the historical landmarks, take a leisurely stroll down to the picturesque beaches and discover the Minorcan coves.

Balearic islands

Formentera - Resorts for Less
Time is money. If you are willing to spend a little time instead of money, you can discover the island of Formentera. You cannot fly here directly, that is the catch. You have to fly to Ibiza first before getting on a ferry to Formentera. This only takes half an hour and does not cost much. When you arrive, you will be happy you went the extra mile though to get to this stunning island. There is an air of exclusivity to the island, as it is not overcrowded or overdeveloped. It can be a tranquil retreat where you relax and soak in the sun's rays.

There is no such thing as a big resort hotel on Formentera. The island has many small and unique resorts to choose from that suit any budget. Es Pujols is the only resort town on the island, and there you will find some beautiful places to stay.

Some of these resorts are just a short walk from the beach, where there are lots of water sports to try. Whether you go with a partner, friends, or family, there will be something you can all enjoy. This is not the most affordable holiday option, but is one that gets you lots for your money. Travel in off-peak months to save a little more. Formentera is not the right destination for families because of the extra travelling, but it is great for couples.

Majorca – Playa de Palma
Whatever type of holiday you want to have, Majorca has what you need. It is one of the top tourist destinations in Europe for plenty of reasons and is worthy of another entry on this list. Playa de Palma is a bit East of the island’s capital, Palma. The curved bay there creates one of the Balearic’s best beaches. If you want some adventure, there is cycling and hiking in the hills inland. Do you want a food-focused getaway? Playa de Palma has plenty of excellent places to eat, drink, and relax.

From just these five destinations, you can find any kind of holiday you want. Self-catering, all-inclusive, adventure, relaxation; the Balearics have it all for less.

Have you visited any of the Balearic Islands?
10:55 No comments
 AD| Are you an avid traveller looking for some travel bag staples? Have you considered purchasing an all-season travel jacket to keep you protected whatever the weather? 

If travelling is on your to-do list this year, then it may be worth considering looking into purchasing an outdoor travel jacket. It doesn't even matter where in the world you are visiting, or even the type of weather you are experiencing, if there is one jacket that could keep you warm, cool, dry, and safe, it's worth investing in… right?! 

Why not consider a GAMMA jacket by Wear Graphene – it’s the most advanced, outdoor jacket you need for your all year round trips, and what's best? — it's perfect for your travel bag, super stylish and lasts a lifetime. If you want to check out some benefits of GAMMA, here are 6 reasons to carry a GAMMA all-season everyday jacket in your travel bag.

travel bag packing

Kind To Your Skin
One important feature of the GAMMA all-climate jacket is that it is suitable for all skin types. It features non-toxic and hypoallergenic properties, and is resistant to allergens and mites, as well as being manufactured without the use of harsh chemicals. Also, this travel jacket has lightweight, breathable and anti-odour features, allowing you to feel comfortable and to stay fresher, for longer. GAMMA also features insect-repellant technology, helping to keep the likes of mosquitoes, insects, and other bugs away without requiring any sprays or creams, and preventing being bitten or developing rashes. Another significant skin benefit the GAMMA jacket has is the protection from the sun. GAMMA is UV-proof, allowing you to keep you cool and protected from potential dangerous UV rays. This is especially beneficial for those with sensitive skin or any serious skin concerns.

Perfect for Travel
GAMMA is the only all-climate outdoor jacket option you will need whilst on your travels. GAMMA is an incredibly strong, durable, lightweight option that simply doesn't compromise function or fashion. Completely multifunctional and practical, and can transform into your everyday jacket, your travel jacket, your activewear, your wind-breaker and your going-out jacket. 

Gamma All-Season Everyday Jacket

Extremely Durable and Long-Lasting 
Graphene is what makes GAMMA incredibly unique and unlike any other travel jacket you will find available for sale. Graphene is the strongest, most flexible and thinnest material on the planet, making it super efficient, versatile, practical, durable and suitable for all your travel needs. GAMMA can survive nearly all types of damage, including snags, tears, fraying, and punctures. 

Storage Pockets
Storage is incredibly vital when it comes to travelling, and GAMMA’s got it all. The jacket is designed to be practical and multifunctional, built with 10-Pockets System, including 2 secret compartments, perfect for all your travel accessories. Plenty of space for your mobile phone, money, essential documents, pens, snacks and much, much more. And what's more convenient, everything you store inside your GAMMA jacket will be kept safe and protected from any sources of light, heat, or moisture, so there is no need to worry!   

Gamma All-Season Everyday Jacket

Built-In Insulation
Graphene is a revolutionary material that can keep you feeling comfortable and protected in both cool and warm temperatures. GAMMA is designed and equipped with three built-in heating elements, which can help you in the coldest destinations of the world, in temperatures as low as -30˚C. The clever heat-insulating, thermoregulating technology design will help warm you up in a matter of seconds, simply by evenly distributing heat to your entire upper-body.

It's Waterproof
When on your travels, you can never be sure of the weather you will be experiencing. Whether the temperature is hot or cold, the weather is raining, snowing or windy, you can always rely on your GAMMA all-season jacket as your best friend whilst travelling. Graphene is a material that is 100% waterproof. The GAMMA jacket also has practical features, including a hood and drawstrings to help you stay dry and to keep moisture out.    

gamma jacket

GAMMA is the perfect travel jacket for those frequent travellers. The multifunctional, practical and versatile properties this jacket have to offer are just 10/10! Learn more about graphene and order your very own GAMMA outdoor jacket at weargraphene.com. You can also check out their social media sites on Facebook and Instagram, to discover more!

Have you heard of the GAMMA outdoor jacket? What are your travel bag essentials?
12:00 No comments

AD| Starting to plan your summer holidays, but not sure where to travel to? Why not consider visiting Santorini, Greece.

One of Europe's most popular tourist destinations, Greece. This country is home to some of the most beautiful islands in the world - Zakynthos, Mykonos and Santorini, to name a few. Santorini is probably one of the most instantly recognisable and iconic Greek islands out there. It's well known for its 5-star offerings, including luxury hotels, spectacular restaurants, high-end shopping, picturesque scenery, and delicious food, making it a great destination for a romantic getaway or a holiday to remember. If you're in need of some European holiday inspiration, here are 5 reasons to visit Santorini, Greece this summer.

santorini

Easy To Explore
 If you truly want to discover the islands' beauty, without paying expensive fares for each taxi ride, or local bus trip, you should consider renting a car in Santorini. There are plenty of car hire companies in Santorini to choose from, so always research ahead to ensure you get the best deals. Santorini is a relatively small Greek island, and driving from one side of the island to the other takes around 40 minutes. Having your own rental car whilst on the island can make your trip extremely easy and convenient, as you are in total control of places you visit and things you do. By having your own rental car, you can explore the island in the best possible way without worrying about public transport timings.

Luxury Hotels
The island of Santorini boasts some of the very best hotels in Greece. It’s always a good idea to pre-book accommodation when visiting Santorini. Some of the most popular places to stay on the island of Santorini include Fira, Oia, Imerovigli, and Firostefani. These towns are located along the caldera cliff on the western side of the island, boasting views of the famous volcano and caldera. Many hotels and apartments across the island of Santorini have simply stunning views of the Aegean Sea and if you're lucky enough, you could even find yourself booking a room with an infinity pool!

santorini

Architecture and Landscape
Santorini is incredibly photogenic, and wherever you are on the island, the views are just breathtaking. The most recognisable being the blue domes and white-painted cave houses, which is the iconic image of Santorini. As well as these, the volcanic island of Santorini is home to some of the world’s unique beaches, featuring volcanic rocks and sand, making it completely distinctive to travellers from all around the world.

Sensational Sunsets
One thing that Santorini is famous for is the spectacular sunsets you can view from all over the island. Your trip to the island of Santorini won't be complete until you physically witness the beautiful sunset. The town of Oia is known as the perfect location to witness the island’s infamous sunset.

Amazing, Fresh Greek Food
If you're a big foodie or like trying new cuisines, you'll love what Santorini, has to offer, for sure! You will find so many restaurants on the island, where you can try out a whole range of delicious Greek food. Here are just a few suggestions of the best foods to try while you are in Santorini;
— Saganaki; a simple Greek recipe of pan-seared cheese.

— Tomato Keftedes; fried tomato balls, with a combination of ripe tomatoes, fresh herbs, and feta cheese, typically served as an appetiser. 

— Fava; probably the most famous and iconic traditional dish in Santorini. Another simple and healthy Greek dip appetiser consisting of yellow split peas, cooked with onions, garlic, and herbs.

Have you visited Santorini before?

20:00 No comments
AD| Are you currently planning your next UK staycation? Are you considering a caravan or motorhome style holiday, but unsure where to start? Caravan and motorhome style holidays have recently become much more popular than ever before. These types of holiday are extremely versatile and gives you unlimited freedom to go and do what you want, be more independent and ultimately go at your own pace. 

If you're looking at planning your journey, there are so many beautiful small UK holiday destinations to consider, you'd be spoilt for choice. Caravan parks are typically located near large parks, beaches or forest areas, giving you a perfect location to spend more time in nature and enjoy the fresh air of the great outdoors. But before you begin your journey, here are a number of top tips for getting your caravan ready for travel use.

CARAVAN

If your caravan has been stored away all winter long, it may be in need of a clean and tidy up, to help it get back on the road in good condition. Make sure to give your caravan a thorough clean before use - both inside and outside. It's important to use plenty of water when cleaning the exterior of the caravan and the windows. Make sure to use suitable products designed for your vehicle to avoid any unwanted damage and corrosion.

Just like you would any other vehicle, it's important that you ensure you have necessary caravan insurance for your caravan. When browsing and comparing a variety of quotes for insuring your caravan, it’s important to get the right level of cover to meet your needs and at a good price. You can usually get a good price by comparing caravan insurance online. By taking out caravan insurance, you will typically be protected from problems such as theft and any accidental damages that may occur. If you're looking for cheaper insurance, you may find that keeping your caravan secure with locks, storing your caravan safely and taking caravan towing courses can help lower your costs and keep your premiums low.

Before you set off, you’ll need to make an appointment to make sure your caravan is ready to be on the road. Having your caravan serviced properly ensures it is safe and secure for travel, and you won't face any break-downs along the way. Also, it is important to check for any other issues such as tyres, leaks, dead batteries and your towing aid is fitted correctly.

If you're new to caravans, you may find it useful to enrol in a caravan course to boost your confidence, give you a little road experience and help you get settled for the road ahead. These courses are designed to give you both theoretical and practical advice when holidaying with a caravan.

Preparing your caravan for travel take a lot of pre-planning, list making and product buying before you set off on your journey. Stock up on products you will require for your trip. This could include items such as toiletries, cooking utensils, bedding, food cupboard items, cleaning products etc. It may also be handy to make sure to carry essential items you may need whilst travelling. E.g. first aid kit, extra food and drinks, fire extinguisher, clothing. These can be helpful if you incur any problems along the way, such as breakdowns, injuries and accidents.

Do you own a caravan? How do you prepare your vehicle for trips?
09:00 No comments
 AD| Taking a trip abroad is all about relaxing and enjoying yourself. There's simply no reason why you should let any of your existing medical conditions stop you from exploring the world. Having a medical condition doesn't need to make your travel plans stressful and overwhelming. Instead, it means you will probably need to allow extra time, extra precautions and extra preparation before you leave, to ensure all needs are accounted for. 

Obviously, it's important that you research into your chosen travel destinations, as you want to choose the right place to meet your needs. For example, if you have mobility problems, you won't want to be climbing hills and mountains whilst on holiday. Whether you have any form of disability, suffer with a mental health issue or are currently suffering from an illness, there are a number of simple steps you can take to ensure your holiday plans aren't a total failure. Listed below are 4 tips to help you travel safely with a medical condition.

travel

Firstly, for those who are currently taking prescribed medicines, it's essential that you carry your medication to cover the entirety of your trip. You will need to plan out in advance what medication you require, and ensure you order enough to cover your time away. It's important that you carry your medication in your hand luggage or handbag in case your hold luggage gets lost, or you need to access your medication straight away. You may even consider taking some extra medication in case of any travel delays or diversions.

In order to travel safely with medical conditions, it's vital that you take out the correct travel insurance that you require. You must make sure to declare your medical conditions or illnesses when you purchase it to make sure it's valid and up-to-date. This will ensure you are covered for any situations that might occur whilst you are travelling.
 
If you suffer from any type of cardiology or respiratory conditions, you may need to travel with oxygen to ensure your safety and medical needs are looked after. For those travelling, the use of oxygen has become a much easier experience, especially with the evolution and development of portable oxygen, with retailers such as The Oxygen Store making oxygen-based products widely available and suitable for all your travel needs. If your medical condition requires you to travel with oxygen, you’ll need to ensure you speak with your chosen travel provider or airline to make sure you are aware of what is and isn’t accepted whilst travelling. Also, if you know that you will require oxygen, make sure that you carry enough to cover your trip, and ensure you carry refills in case of any delays.

Another part of your travel planning is to make sure your medical paperwork is correct and current. It may also be worth making an appointment to visit your GP or doctor before you book your next holiday, so they can carry out any necessary tests to ensure you are fit to travel, have any vaccinations and give you copies of your documents. In advance, you can make copies of your documents and ensure you carry your medical paperwork with you at all times whilst you are away. This will help you stay organised, and prepared if anything happens whilst you are away.

What other safety travel tips do you use?

10:00 No comments
AD| If you're looking at planning a UK staycation, maybe even a caravan/motorhome type holiday or just need some inspiration of lesser-known places to visit in the near future, look no further! 

The UK is filled with an abundance of diverse little towns and pretty villages that are sometimes overlooked by the more popular and tourist focused larger locations. There are plenty of UK destinations with such diversity, rich history, breathtaking landscape and a long list of places to stay, things to see and do, there are plenty of options for all holidaymakers. And even better, booking your hotels and accommodation for the duration of your holiday is even more simple these days. With a few clicks, you can find your perfect accommodation, at the best price, with no hidden costs or fees with online websites such as eBooking. Here are 6 UK small town holiday destinations to consider for your next staycation.

uk beaches

If you're looking at taking a trip to south-east England, you may want to consider stopping off at Rye, East Sussex. From historic charms, local produce to sample, gorgeous outdoor spaces, and plenty of quirky antique stores, you'll simply be spoilt for choice. A few places of interest include, Rye Nature Reserve and Discovery Centre, Camber Sands, Rye Castle and even the local windmill. Whatever your tastes, Rye has it all. 

If you're looking for a small and quiet, typical English seaside town, then Whitstable, Kent is a place to research. Whitstable is your standard coastal location, home to a thriving maritime industry. With its fresh seafood selection and annual oyster festival, Whitstable is a perfect location for all food lovers. For a more historic experience, a trip to Whitstable Castle might be on the cards.

Located within the Peak District, Bakewell, Derbyshire is the perfect, picturesque market town for a day trip, or weekend getaway. If you're looking for something adventurous and outdoors, Bakewell marks the start of the famous, family-friendly, Monsal Trail – a popular cycle and walking track boasting tons of wildlife, geology, industrial, and rail heritage. Plus, you can’t visit Bakewell without trying one of the famous Bakewell Puddings. It would be rude not to!

uk villages

Located in the Cotswolds, Castle Combe, Wiltshire, has previously been known as “one of the prettiest villages” in England, and when you browse online at photographs, you can see exactly why. The village itself boasts so much medieval history, especially within the wool trade – it's like stepping back in time, as the area has barely changed in 500 years, in order to preserve its beauty. You may even recognise Castle Combe as the main backdrop for a number of period television and cinema dramas, as this village is home to a number of listed building.

If you are thinking of visiting Wales anytime soon, maybe for a day trip or a long weekend, this is definitely a location worth visiting! Portmeirion, Wales, is a unique, coastal, tourist village that holds such charm and charisma, it truly feels like you're somewhere located in the Mediterranean. It would absolutely be an Instagram-lover's dream to visit here. With a number of coastal walks, secret coves, stunning beaches and unlimited amount of breathtaking views, if you’re a lover of fresh air and exploring nature, Portmeirion is undoubtedly for you! 

Finally, if taking a trip to a more-traditional Scottish village is more your idea of a getaway, why not consider Killin, Loch Tay, Scotland. The village makes an excellent base for hikes and walks alongside the mountains, as it's extremely easy to navigate on foot. Killin is located close to the Ben Lawers National Nature Reserve, as well as the Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park. So this is a great holiday destination for those who want to have an adventure, as you can enjoy a lovely mix of wildlife spotting, outdoor activities and scenic walking.

Have you any holidays booked in the UK? What destinations have you been looking at visiting?
10:00 No comments
AD| Have you begun planning your summer holiday? Do you ever consider renting a car to help you get the most out of your destination? If not, you could be seriously missing out.

If you're currently planning your summer holidays, whether you are opting for a UK staycation, or maybe a European getaway, you may want to consider car rentals as a way to explore your chosen destination to the fullest. Renting a car on holiday can be extremely easy to book, and gives you so much control and flexibility on the places you want to visit, and things you want to do whilst you're away. So if you're considering hiring a car for your next holiday, here are 5 reasons to rent a car whilst on holiday…


When researching and booking your next trip, many people are usually put off renting a car whilst on holiday as they think it’s too expensive and not something they budgeted for. However, renting a car on holiday can actually be an affordable way to explore your destination – here's how. Once your holiday plans are booked, you are then able to scan the internet to find a bunch of great deals and quotes for car hire. This in turn will be an easy way to save some money whilst on your holidays. Many car hire companies will offer exclusive deals and special offers, as well as airport pick-ups, making it so convenient whilst travelling, it's worth taking a look. If book your car rental early enough, you are then aware of the total costs for your transportation upfront, and can factor this in to your holiday budget or savings. Plus, you’ll then save a ton of money on buses, trains, and taxis whilst you’re away, as you'll have complete control of your journeys.

Renting a car whilst on holiday can ultimately save you time on your journeys, even before you have arrived. Beforehand, you can arrange for your car to be ready and collected at the airport – an extremely convenient factor, meaning no airport transfers for you! As well as this, you will be saving time on your daily trips and activities as you don't have to wait for public transport or taxis to arrive. You also don't have to keep stopping and starting when you reach bus stops or train stations, and if your rental car has a built-in sat-nav, you can find diversions from any long traffic queues.


Renting a car on your holiday gives you the freedom to explore wherever you want to go. You don’t need to waste time searching for the local bus and train timetables or schedules, or waiting for that taxi to, finally, turn up. Renting your own car on holiday gives you ultimate control of your travels, and means you can plan your daily schedule around your own times and routine. Whilst you're on the road, you can change your plans as you're travelling, allowing you to have a spontaneous, and fun-filled trip. 

Renting a car whilst on holiday can be probably the most comfortable way of travelling. Using public transport whilst abroad can be hot, stressful, and uncomfortable, and a lot of the time, commuters are packed into buses and trains. By opting for car rentals, you can travel in style and enjoy your holiday that little-bit more. You'll also have access to all your personal belongings, making it extremely convenient, as well as having the opportunity to pull over for rest breaks, food and toilet stops, or even to capture a photograph.

Finally, car rentals give you the opportunity to hire a suitable vehicle, tailored for your needs. This could be depending on your budget, the amount of passengers or luggage you have, whether you require additional features or even the type of holiday you are on. All of these requirements can be factored in during the booking process, and can be the perfect way to begin your holiday, as the car will be ready for you, as soon as you get there.

Have you booked any holidays for this year? Have you ever rented a car whilst you are away?
10:00 No comments
 GUEST POST | If you're looking at planning a visit to Cardiff, Wales for the first time, here are some things you must see, do and experience.

Splendidly situated betwixt the mountains and the sea, Cardiff is making a big splash with visitors. This capital city is small in size, but big in personality. Weekenders are drawn by its unique character and charms. Some come hoping to rub shoulders with rugby players, spy a dragon or two, take in an ancient castle or join in with a good old singsong, Tom Jones’ style. Aside from those quintessentially Welsh pastimes, Cardiff has much else to offer too.

Making waves since the 15th century, Cardiff is now home to 350,000 people. Set just off the M4 motorway, with its own airport and a centrally located train station, these days the city is within easy reach of just about anywhere. With its emblem of the red dragon in glorious abundance, every sign written in both Welsh and English and a chorus of distinctive lilting voices all about you, once here you know, without a doubt, that you are in the heart of Wales. The buzz of the city comes from music, rugby and a strong, proud sense of national cultural identity. Some even claim that the shopping here is better than in Milan. The city is also brimming with lively nightlife options, from traditional pubs to sophisticated bars, live music and a wide range of clubs for a memorable party night out. Whilst Cardiff has all the cosmopolitan buzz of a capital city, it is compactly set within a small area, making it easy to get about.

WALES

Cardiff lies within a stone’s throw of the Brecon Beacons National Park and the Black mountains to the North and the South Wales coastline to the South and West, where there are also plentiful Bristol activities. This means that adventurous types, with a penchant for the great outdoors, can schedule in walking, biking, golf, surfing, canoeing and other Cardiff activities. There are small to middling sized mountains to scale, the largest being Pen y Fan, at a lofty altitude of 886 metres. Coastal towns such as Ogmore-by-Sea offer the very hip challenge of surfing. For cyclists, there are a range of on and off-road options, the most famous being the Taff trail. At 55 miles (93 kilometres) long, it wends its way from Cardiff to the historic market town of Brecon. It largely follows the course of the Taff river and is a mixture of on and off-road sections, requiring either a mountain bike or perhaps a hybrid model to tackle it. Even within the city itself, there is the opportunity to get out on the water of Cardiff bay, in a canoe, kayak, wind-surfer or dinghy. Sticking safely to dry land, there is also the rather lovely and very central Bute park to picnic, lob frisbees and generally laze about in.

For rugby fans, Cardiff holds the allure of the 74,500 seat Millennium stadium. This is home to the Welsh national side, fondly nicknamed the Red Dragons. On match days, thousands throng here, creating a sea of red in the stands, together with a carnival display of nodding and bopping dragon and daffodil head attire. Even if you’re not here on match days, you can still sneak a glimpse into the dragons’ lair. Stadium tours allow you to peek inside the dressing room, tread in the footsteps of giants through the players’ tunnel and hold a trophy aloft for yourself.

For culture vultures and seekers of knowledge, there are museums, galleries and shops, including the National Museum of Wales, Techniquest hands-on-science centre and Wales Millennium Centre. There is also the 2,000 year old castle to explore. Back through time, it has been home to a Roman fort, a Norman citadel and a Tudor stronghold. These days, instead of repelling grockles with slingshot and hot tar, it welcomes them with open arms. If you time your visit to Cardiff right, you could sup locally brewed beverages at the Great Welsh Beer and Cider Festival in June or munch your way through the Great British Cheese Festival in September. Music is in the blood of Welshmen and Cardiff is firmly at the melodic forefront. It has major venues in the form of the Millennium stadium and the Motorpoint Arena. These regularly attract the big names in music, such as the legendary figures of Gary Barlow, Dolly Parton and McBusted. There are heaps of Eisteddfod and Jazz options to enjoy and a smorgasbord of live music available in smaller venues too.

cardiff

If you wish to craft, nibble, quaff and laze, Cardiff offers a wealth of luxurious, sublime and quirky opportunities to do so. You can roll your very own handmade chocolates, create melt-in-the-mouth fudge, muddle some cocktails with a master mixologist or shrug off the hustle bustle of the 21st century at a lavish spa.

As the sun sets over Tiger bay in Cardiff, visitors have their sights set on re-fuelling and thoughts naturally turn to eating, drinking and making merry. Cardiff has a huge variety of restaurants, cafes, pubs, bars and nightclubs on offer. Mermaid Quay is part of the multi-million pound redevelopment of Cardiff bay and boasts a number of restaurants and bars, where you can sit, sup and enjoy views out across the water. Alternatively, you can head for the central area, near the castle and train station. Here lie pubs for every tippler, from traditional to spit and sawdust to trendy and sophisticated. 

There are clubs a-plenty too. For alternative music, head for the top end of the town centre. For mainstream chart, dance, trance, house and party music, you could head for the areas around St Mary Street in the centre, Cardiff Bay or Greyfriars road. Cardiff’s motto ‘The Red Dragon will Lead the Way’ perhaps hints at the promise of mini adventures for those that choose to follow, offering something for every size, shape and flavour of visitor to the city. Join the migration and let the dragon lead on.

Have you visited Cardiff? 
10:00 No comments
AD| Traveling and going on holiday abroad can be extremely expensive if you fail to do enough research and come up with a detailed, planned itinerary. With many of us browsing online and looking to start booking summer holidays and trips away now some travel is allowed, you can already start saving some money before you've even left you're own home. There are so many decisions to make and things to consider when holiday searching, and sometimes you just don't need the added stress of everything happening all at once.

BEACH HOLIDAY DESTINATION

Before even thinking about going on holiday, the most important thing is to save up enough money to be able to afford the trip. You obviously want to make sure you are financially stable, and can actually afford to go on holiday. Make sure to set a budget for the total cost of the holiday, as well as for each day of your trip, will help you when it comes to planning and saving money. By having a set budget, this will help you when searching for your perfect getaway, as you have a price range to work with.

It's also really important to make sure to research your destination so you know what to expect when you get there. You will need to decide where you want to stay, the length of your trip and also find out what the weather conditions are like before you go. You can also look online to find recommendations and reviews of places to go and stay. This allows you to get real peoples thoughts and opinions, and you'll also be able to see where you should be spending your money.

A big way to save money when booking your holidays abroad is by being as flexible as possible with your travel dates. Traveling during off-peak times can be a lot cheaper than during the busiest times of the year, so if you have the time flexibility, it's worth looking at cheaper dates. You can also have a look at special offers and deals that travel companies offer that are scheduled for specific dates, so if you have full flexibility, this could be something to look out for.

FLIGHT TRAVEL

When you have finalised your travel dates and destination, you'll then want to go ahead and begin to book your flights and accommodation. During this stage of your booking process, you'll be able to research and find out if booking your holiday in a package or separately will be cheaper for you. I'd recommend using price comparison websites that can search the internet for flights and hotels, suiting your dates, time and budget.

If you're going to be exploring your destination by bus/tube/train etc, it may be more cost effective for you by buying travel passes for the duration of your stay. Depending on what you have planned for your trip, having a travel card already purchased can save you a lot of time and money, so you have more time to go sightseeing and and exploring. It can also be worth having if you decide upon some unexpected last-minute plans and venture out of the local area.

If your accommodation allows you to have access to a kitchen, that is an extremely easy way to save money once you're away. You can pick up your ingredients quite cheaply from local supermarkets and make your own food. However, if you are looking at eating out most of the time, why not get some recommendations from locals and enjoy local food and drinks. Many restaurants, pubs and bars are situated in very popular, tourist areas, and visiting these locations may be quite expensive. Many destinations will have places to eat and drink that are super popular with the locals and residents, so it may be worth asking around for some ideas of places to enjoy your meals.

TAPAS BAR FOOD

If you're visiting somewhere where you want to take sightseeing at your own pace, looking at car rental services might be a good option to save you money on public transport and taxi fees. Many rental companies have special offers and discounts when booked in advance, and offer a variety of sized vehicles for your own personal needs. If you're looking at island holidays, for example, such as Santorini, Ibiza or even Cyprus, I'd highly recommend looking at hiring your own car to help you get about and explore your next holiday destination.

Exchange rates for currency are always changing and are in constant fluctuation everyday. Obviously as a buyer of currency, we want to get the best deals and prices when looking at getting foreign currency. Probably the easiest and cheapest way to buy your foreign currency is going online, and comparing banks and travel agents, to make sure you get a good exchange. By making sure to organise and collect currency before travel, you can save yourself some money by not purchasing at the airport, or at your final destination, as the conversion rates are usually not great. 

Finally, when you're on holiday, you may want to look at finding some day trips or visiting attractions, as these can prove costly if not pre-planned and booked ahead. If you to fill up your travel itinerary, it might be worth researching some free excursions and activities that your travel destination has to offer. Many tourist destinations will have plenty of parks, museums and shops that you can visit for free. You could even ask in your hotel or accommodation centre if there are any activities going on during your stay that you might find interesting.

How do you save money whilst travelling? Have you got any holidays planned soon?
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AD| If you are starting to look at planning your next UK summer vacation but want something a little different, why not consider a caravan/motorhome-style holiday?

 Caravan and motorhome travel can be extremely exciting and if planned well, can be so much less stressful than your typical holiday abroad. You can take your journey at your own pace, take more direct routes to your destinations, as well as making some super amazing memories and having an awesome adventure with your friends and family. 

CARAVAN TRAVEL

Obviously, one of the most important parts of planning your getaway for your first UK caravan holiday is to completely make sure that you’ve carried out all safety and security checks on your car/caravan/motorhome. By doing this, this ensures your vehicle is fit for purpose and you won't come across any breakdown issues on your trip. You'll want to make sure your vehicle is ready for the road, checking tyres, fuel and other fluid levels, and also making sure your have a safe and secure tow-bar for your caravan to attach to.

Before you set off on your trip, it would be very useful and informative to check any driving regulations for caravans/motorhomes, as suggested in The Highway Code. You’ll need to switch up your driving style when you are towing a caravan, as it will feel completely different to a normal car. You'll need to consider things like vehicle weight, conditions of your brakes, as well as considering your stopping distance, vehicle speed and room needed for manoeuvres. You may even opt for a special driving course for caravans or motorhomes to make sure you are fully confident ahead of your summer trip.

Making sure you go online and check that you have the correct insurance for your caravan/motorhome trip is extremely important. It's not ideal to be spending extra money on something that isn’t necessary, so finding a good deal on your insurance is extremely vital. If it's your first caravan/motorhome travel holiday, it’s probably a good idea to take out some insurance in case of any unplanned issues. This could include breakdowns, repairs or even theft. By researching ahead of your trip, the touring caravan insurance you need can be found at a lower price, allowing you to make sure you’re getting the best quotes and deal for what you require for your trip.

Obviously, journey planning is one of the biggest steps in researching for your caravan/motorhome holiday. You'll ideally want to make an itinerary of how long you wish to spend travelling, places you want to visit, and of course, the route you're going to take for your journeys. There are plenty of online resources that can help you to help plan your trip, giving you the best routes and letting you know the timeframes you will need. I would also recommend setting up a sat-nav, as well as bringing a map, just in case of emergencies. Doing all this planning beforehand will help you to feel less stressed and anxious, and allow you to also to come up with contingency plans if there are any issues on the road ahead.

Whilst planning your trip, it's also wise to make sure you have saved up enough money to last you the length of your trip, but also essential to budget for any additional costs. This could be for things such as food/drinks, parking charges, road tolls, just as a few examples. Having put aside some extra money can help you if anything unexpected comes up and catches you "out of the blue". This money can also cover costs if you want to take detours from your original journey plan and visit other places along the way that were not pre-planned before the trip.

Have you considered caravan or motorhome vacations before? Where would you like to visit?
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AD| Let's be completely honest, there's probably a million reasons why you should be thinking about travelling to Greece, especially in the summer months, as there is just so much to see and do here. With around 6,000 islands located in both the Aegean and Ionian Seas, with over 200 of these inhabited, you'll be spoilt for choice when deciding where to go for your next getaway.

Whether you opt for a holiday to the mainland or to one of the islands, Greece simply has it all, from stunning beaches, mouth-watering cuisine to spectacular scenery. Not to mention the warm Mediterranean climate and the abundance of culture and history, it's definitely a holiday destination worth thinking about as the country has so much to offer visitors.


Santorini
Santorini is probably one of the most iconic Greek islands and a location that is instantly recognisable. Santorini is known for it's 5-star luxury hotels, spectacular restaurants, and high-end shopping, making it a great destination for a romantic getaway. The best, most popular places to stay on the island include Fira, Imerovigli, Firostefani and Oia, as these offer some of the the best views of the volcano, the caldera and of course the stunning sunsets.

If you want to truly discover the island without paying expensive fares for each taxi ride, or taking a trip on the local buses, maybe you should consider renting a car whilst in Santorini. The idea of renting a motorbike or a four-wheeler sounds fun, but are typically not the safest way to drive around a busy island like Santorini. On the other hand car hire will offer the flexibility and freedom to enjoy the islands beauties.

Corfu
Corfu is known as Greece's emerald island as it is one of the greenest islands in Greece, with the vast combination of olive and cypress trees making up the landscape. Corfu homes some of the most beautiful beaches in Greece, featuring such crystal clear waters, pebbled beach fronts and golden sands, it's definitely one not to miss out on.

This island is probably one of the best to explore if you are looking for a family holiday. Corfu’s famous Aqualand water park is a great family day out and will give you hours of fun and excitement, and the Corfu Aquarium is also a great spot for those with children. 


Mykonos
For those seeking amazing nightlife with a vivid party scene, Mykonos might just be the perfect island for you. Mykonos island is part of the Cyclades, and is basically Greece's answer to to the famous party island of Ibiza. You can enjoy the cosmopolitan nightlife with a huge selection of restaurants, bars and clubs to go to located all across the island. 

But Mykonos isn't just about great parties, this island offers much much more. Visiting Mykonos offers a well-rounded travel experience; there are an enormous range of activities for everyone. With a range of museums, churches and windmills, and over 20 gorgeous beaches to visit, there are plenty of sights to keep you busy during your stay on the island.

Crete
 Located in the Aegean Sea, Crete is the largest of all the Greek islands, and is also the fifth largest island in the Mediterranean, homing over 600 miles of coastline full of beautiful beaches, cliffs, mountains and hilltops, it's one of the most beautiful landscapes you'll ever encounter. This island is an ideal getaway for couple, friend or family style holidays as there is so many things to see and do here, you'll be spoilt for choice everyday!

Crete also has two major airports; Chania and Heraklion, making it easily accessible from many European cities, making it a perfect holiday destination to travel to. I was lucky enough to visit Crete a few years ago, spending my holiday in the town of Hersonissos, located in the north of the island. It's one of the most modern places on the island, with an array of restaurants, bars and clubs, similar to those found in the neighbouring town of Malia. With golden sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, amazing food and Instagram-worthy sunsets, it's a must visit place for everyone.

Greek Islands Landscape View

Rhodes
Rhodes is the largest island in the Greek Dodecanese, the fourth largest Greek island and is known to be the sunniest place in Greece! Not only does the island have the perfect climate, the island is extremely rich in history as it is the oldest inhabited medieval towns in Europe. If you're a lover of Greek history, then a trip into Rhodes Old Town is a must!

Rhodes boasts such a variety of picture-perfect, breath-taking scenery, from ancient towns and picturesque villages to amazing beaches and natural landscapes. As for the beaches on the island, they are some of the best beaches in Greece, especially those located at Lindos and Faliraki!

Zakynthos
Located in the Ionian Sea, Zakynthos is a well-known summer resort that offers plenty of activities for all ages, making it an ideal location for families, couples or groups. Whether you're into water sports, hiking and visiting museums, or taking day trip excursions like boat parties and turtle spotting, Zakynthos has it all.

The iconic, world famous Navagio Shipwreck Beach lies on the island of Zakynthos. This locations is tucked away in a small cove in the north of the island, boasting a beautiful beach and crystal clear waters, it's probably one of the most recognised, photographed and most famous beach in Greece and can only be accessed via boat. It's definitely something not to be missed when visiting Zakynthos.

Have you visited Greece before? Which islands are you looking to go to?
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