● Laura Thornberry ● Lifestyle Blogger ● London Based ●: travel

GUEST POST| The Southwestern United States is a diverse and exciting place to visit. It offers many landscapes, climates, and cultures. The region is mostly made up of desert-like areas, with some mountain ranges in the north, such as the Rocky Mountains. The region also has some of the country’s best food, arts, and music. Popular sites include the Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona, Las Vegas in Nevada, San Diego in California and New Mexico's White Sands National Monument.

If you’re interested in making these sites part of your back-door view, you’ll need a reliable home base. So, check out this list of these amazing Southwestern cities to check out now if you want to see more in this incredible part of the United States.

El Paso

El Paso, Texas, has a lot to offer. It is known for its temperate climate, vibrant culture, and rich history. El Paso was founded in 1680 by Spanish colonizers in the New World. The city’s location on the Mexican border makes it an ideal destination for those who want to explore both sides of the country. It also has some good things going for it is as well, like its low cost of living and high-quality education system.

This is a great time to pick up one of the El Paso houses for sale and settle into the city to work, because El Paso offers plenty of resources and opportunities while still being affordable.

Santa Fe

Santa Fe is the capital of New Mexico that is known for its high-quality restaurants, art and culture. Santa Fe has a lot of great things to offer its residents and visitors, but one of the best things about Santa Fe is the food. The food scene in Santa Fe is one of the best in the country and provides visitors with a wide range of options from traditional Mexican dishes to fine dining.

Santa Fe has also been named as one of America’s “most liveable cities” by Forbes magazine, which puts it on par with other popular destinations such as Austin, Portland, and San Francisco. Basically, the city is temperate for much of the year, it’s got a great look to it with its Spanish influences, and there is plenty to do outdoors. Worth checking out, for sure!

Sedona

Sedona is a beautiful place in the state of Arizona. It is known for its red rock views and opportunities for hiking, biking, rock climbing, horseback riding, and more! One of the best parts about visiting Sedona is the beautiful scenery. There are so many types of landscapes in this city that you can easily find something you love.

Sedona has a lot to offer its residents. The cost of living is relatively lower compared to other places in Arizona, it has an abundance of natural beauty, and it’s close to major cities like Phoenix, Los Angeles, and Las Vegas. The city also offers great opportunities for those who want to live out their passions through careers in art or culture.

Have you visited the US lately? What cities and states have you travelled to?

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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.

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.

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?

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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.

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.

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!

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 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?

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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.

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!

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?

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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.

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?

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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.

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?

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