Archive for the 'England' Category

To me, the magic of traveling begins the moment I walk into my intended hotel.  I am not like a lot of travelers who believe that one’s hotel experience is not of signifigance, since the majority of one’s journey will be spent exploring outside the hotel’s front doors.  While I do lose myself in the world of travel when I am abroad, I also care deeply about my accommodations and spend quite a bit of time researching the best choice/s for my trips.  Over the years, I have developed a strong passion for boutique hotels, especially ones that offer an incredible personal attention to detail and service.  In this post I explore three unique boutique hotels in England:

Hope Street Hotel

When looking for hotels in Liverpool, look no further than Hope Street Hotel.  What is unique about this hotel is that it is located within a gorgeous historical building that was built in 1860 in the style of a Venetian palazzo.  The rooms are spacious with a contemporary design —  along with these rooms that are so luxurious that you will never want to leave them is a restaurant, The London Carriage Works, with world-class dining.  Another perk of the hotel is that it is only steps away from the best shopping and sightseeing in the city.

The Berkeley

A favorite of celebrities when visiting London is The Berkeley.  What is unique about this hotel is that retro movies are played on a big movie screen for guests on its perfectly manicured rooftop garden no matter what season of the year it is.  The hotel is located in the fashionable district of Knightsbridge.  The rooms are designed to impress and any need, want, or desire can be met by the staff.  The hotel also houses two of the city’s finest restaurants: Marcus Wareing at The Berkeley and Koffmann’s.

Malmaison Oxford

Christmas in London is a pretty special time of the year.  While the unpredictable British weather may not always produce a flurry of snow in December, the city nevertheless well and truly enters into the spirit of things over the festive period and has a host of seasonal events that prove incredibly popular with residents and tourists alike.

With a plethora of different accommodations — ranging from hotels and hostels to Tower Bridge apartments and penthouse apartments London — there are options aplenty for anybody keen to head to the English capital in the build-up to Christmas or to welcome in 2012 in style.

London is transformed into a winter wonderland in November and December, as various temporary ice rinks crop up in some of the most iconic parts of the city; such as in Hyde Park, Somerset House, or right next to the Natural History Museum.  The rink at Somerset House is particularly enchanting as the Houses of Parliament and the London Eye loom large on the horizon.

Speaking of the London Eye, one of the largest Ferris wheels in the world forms the centerpiece of a stunning firework display when ‘Big Ben’ chimes to signal the start of a new year.  In fact, the whole of the South Bank stages a firework and light show extravaganza to rival any of their counterparts around the globe on December 31st.  Imagine what an amazing moment it would be to experience this in 2012 on the banks of the River Thames with thousands of other revelers.

A number of high-profile free carol services take place throughout London and they give people of all ages the chance to come together and belt out a few timeless classics.  Trafalgar Square is one such venue set to stage a sing-a-long with a difference and will be decked out with a huge tree and eye-catching decorations.

If you have kids, to keep amused then fear not because Santa will be taking time out from his busy schedule to appear in grottos like the world-famous grotto at Harrods, while he will also be on hand to dish out presents and plenty of seasonal cheer at Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park.  As well as a grotto and ice rink, there is also a Christmas market and circus, meaning there is fun to be had for all the family.

No trip to England during the festive season is complete with taking in a pantomime.  Going to watch one of these musical comedies is quite unlike any other theater trip you will have ever experienced in the past.  Last, but no means least, remember to check out the Christmas lights on Oxford Street, Regent Street, and in and around Covent Garden.

If you are looking for a getaway-from it-all kind of break, then you certainly will not be short of choice in the UK.  It boasts some of the most beautiful vacation spots in the world, but where exactly is worth a visit on your next travel adventure?  Well, here are a few ideas to get your globetrotting juices flowing:

The Lake District in the North West county of Cumbria, England is one of the most visually stunning locations in the world.  The true beauty of the Lake District is definitely one of those things that have to be seen to be believed, so make sure you take your camera with you.  The accommodation Windermere includes some of the most delightful little cottages in the Lake District and there is no better way to enjoy the very best of England.  After a long day of walking in the hills, you will be grateful for the chance to put your feet up in front of a log fire for the evening.

Of equal beauty, minus the multitude of lakes, is the Peak District, which can be found between Manchester and Sheffield in the center of the country.  This place gives the Lake District a run for its money in the scenery stakes and attracts visitors from all over the world on a regular basis.  Its close proximity to some of the UK’s best cities to visit only serves to make it even more attractive.  You can get active climbing rocks, abseiling back down them, and even going inside them by caving, but if you would rather relax; pack a picnic and lay down the blanket amongst the hills and trees.

Moving south, we come to the Cotswolds in the Somerset and Gloucestershire areas.  The Cotswolds, an area which is often affectionately labelled as the “Heart of England,” actually spreads throughout a total of six counties.  It not only has the countryside to match the Lake and Peak Districts, however it also has some of the quaintest towns in the country.  For over fifty years now, this part of England has been recognized as an “Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty,” which is certainly not an easy title to come by.

If England does not tickle your fancy, then the Scottish Highlands most definitely will.  Moving away from the country theme, Edinburgh cements its place on this list as one of the most delightfully picturesque cities in the world.  It is beautiful in a wholly different way to the English and Scottish countrysides, thus your camera is still an absolute necessity.  One thing is for certain: the architecture and culture that fills the streets of Edinburgh will stay with you for a very long time.

Due to it being a bustling and vibrant city, you are never short of something to do and see in London.  But what about when you are visiting with your significant other?  Rome and Paris are the obvious choices for a romantic getaway, however with its chic bars, intimate restaurants, and luxurious hotels, could London be fast-becoming one of the most romantic cities in the world?

Amongst favorite romantic restaurants in London is The Little Bay Restaurant, a small but wonderfully intimate dining experience, where you will be served only the freshest food from its a-la-carte menu.  The Gourmet San is also a great place to take a loved one to dinner, with its candlelit tables and exquisite food.

After all of that fine dining, you could experience one of the most luxurious London nights the city has to offer, by booking an evening Chocolate Ecstasy Tour and discover the finest English chocolates washed down with a crisp glass of wine.  You even get to sample the Queen’s favorite chocolate!

For somewhere to stay, check into The Draycott Hotel, a grand Edwardian building just next to Sloane Square in posh and upmarket Chelsea.  Rooms come with Victorian antiques, working fireplaces, and four-poster beds; creating a quintessentially English stay.  The Bingham Hotel is also a couples’ favorite, with a Michelin-starred restaurant and a whirl-pool in every bedroom.  At night, you can sit by the River Thames with a glass of Pimm’s, watching the sunset across the water with your soul mate.

For the most exciting of London nights, check out the West End for an all-singing, all-dancing extravaganza of a show, where you will laugh and cry together and experience the time of your life.  After the show, go to Victoria Dock where you will find plenty of quirky boat-bars moored in the harbor.

If you love wine-tasting, enjoy a day out together at Vinpolis in the Southbank area, where you can choose from a variety of wine tours, each dedicated to your specific wine tastes.  There is nothing better than getting to know each other again over a beautiful glass of wine, whilst relaxing in an astounding setting.

For something a little different from the usual romantic dinner, book a ticket for a candlelit classical concert in St. Martin in the Fields.  Here, you can enjoy a glass of your favorite wine, some amazing live classical music, and watch the moonlight bounce off the magnificent sights of London.

Whether you choose to experience it all or you just simply wander at leisure; London will always be the perfect place for a romantic break — oozing with finery and indulgence.  A dreamy and starry city, London will bring out the best in you and your partner, and restore the passion in both of you.

In these post-credit crunch times, holidays are just as important as ever.  While people may find that they are pushing their budgets to the limit in order to be able to afford a getaway, the additional stresses and strains most households are suffering as part of their daily life mean it is even more imperative that people find some outlet at least once a year for some rest and relaxation.  With this in mind, people should begin to consider where they would like to travel this summer and it is essential that people choose their destination wisely.

Best Entertainment Destinations

Individuals, couples, and families who like to have a packed program during their time away may wish to consider holidays in the following locations:

• Florida – A long standing family favorite, Florida has it all from family friendly theme parks and attractions to beautiful beaches offering water sports of all types to a stunning natural environment home to some very exciting species.
• Ibiza – The Balearic Island has long been a place of pilgrimage for those who love their nightlife.  It boasts some of the world’s best nightclubs and caters to a young crowd with an interesting selection of daytime activities on offer as well.
• Thailand – Catching cheap flights to Bangkok opens the gateway to a wonderfully entertaining holiday experience.  Stay in the city itself to experience everything from puppet shows and traditional dance to go-go bars and Lady Boy cabaret, or head for the islands and join one of the legendary monthly full moon parties before sleeping off all the excesses on a gorgeous tropical beach.

Best Relaxation Destinations

For those who use their holidays as an excuse to do nothing, a relaxing setting is the order of the day.  Great choices include:

• The English Riviera – Head to the South West of England for a soothing UK holiday in traditional seaside towns.  Relax on one of the many sandy beaches, try a pint in a local hostelry, or take a walk out on the moor.
• Tuscany – Hiring a self catering cottage in the Tuscan countryside is a great way to relax.  With stunning scenery in plentiful supply, enjoy an Italian dinner al fresco before watching the sun set over the Tuscan hills with a glass of local vino.
• Maldives – The archetypal tropical paradise, the islands of the Maldives know all about relaxation and much of the accommodation on offer is perfectly geared towards disconnecting and indulging.  Rent a stunning stilt build cabin sitting over the crystal clear sea and spend days out on the deck enjoying the sound of silence and stunning  sea views.

Whatever travelers are looking for from their summer holiday in 2011 there is a destination to fit the bill and choosing carefully can make the difference between a good getaway and a great getaway.

Anna Dewinter is a writer who is obsessed with traveling, that is why she loves writing about it.  She also enjoys reading and spending time with her crazy dogs.

When you book Heathrow airport parking there is more on offer besides the great price, convenient location, and top notch security.  HolidayExtras.co.uk is a great place to sugar-coat your experience, as there are a host of parking upgrades you can include in your booking to make the start of your holiday extra special.

1. Meet and Greet – Why park your car yourself when someone else can do it for you?  With the Meet and Greet service there is no need to keep your eyes peeled for a space.  Just drive yourself to the terminal and leave your car in the capable hands of your driver and off you jet.  When you are back, your car will be waiting at the terminal so that you can head straight home without delay.
2. Traffic Assistant – Perfect for a smooth ride to the airport, drift past jams and side-step queues thanks to the Traffic Assistant upgrade. You will get texts on the day of your flight letting you know about any congestion or traffic problems on your route in order for you to be ahead of the game and take a clearer path.  Add this to your parking or Heathrow airport hotel package and you are sure to arrive on time,relaxed, and ready to begin your holiday.
3. Holiday Insurance – Although not the most exciting topic, holiday insurance is something you have to have.  Thus, why not get it sorted when you book your parking.  It will save you time, effort, and most of all money.  HolidayExtras.com offers Worldwide, European, Single, or Multi-trip insurance and it is the same low price no matter how many of you are travelling.  It is a great upgrade, so make the most of it.
4. Heathrow Airport Lounge – Treat yourself to a taste of the VIP life and escape the hustle and bustle of the airport.  Relax in a little airport haven with complimentary drinks and snacks, internet, TV, and a selection of magazines.  The Heathrow airport Lounge is a calm oasis for you to slide into holiday mode and away from the stresses of life.
5. FairFX Card – The most practical upgrade around, the FairFX Money Card is simply the best way to handle your money abroad.  Who wants to carry wads of foreign currency with them or get slapped with a big charge for using a card abroad?  The FairFx card is free and it works just like a debit card.  Top it up with some money and start spending anywhere you want, easy.

London Heathrow Airport

In 2005, after experiencing a miserably boring New Year’s Eve spent at home, I vowed from then on I would travel somewhere exceptionally fabulous for the holiday.  Since it is my favorite day of the year, I feel that it should be celebrated in style!

Here is a look at the places I visited for the last 5 New Year Eve’s:

London, England 2006. We rung in the new year on the River Thames inside a boat. Fireworks were set off from the London Eye.

Madrid, Spain 2007. 5 minutes before this picture was taken my camera was stolen from my pocket. Thankfully, my girlfriend had her disposable camera with her. While my friend took this picture, an unknown Italian man gave me a huge Hollywood kiss for good luck and then turned around and walked away. Guess the night was not a total loss?

Barrosa Valley, Australia 2008. Because of a severe drought, no fireworks were permitted in that part of Australia. This is the wine region of the country, so we celebrated by drinking lots and lots of wine.

Machu Pichu, Peru 2009. The plan was to ring in the new year in Cuzco, however a group of Peruvian women decided to go on strike at the train station and it stopped all of the trains for 6 hours. Thus, we ended up celebrating at the train station.

Rio de Janeiro, Brasil 2010. I cannot imagine a more unforgettable place to spend New Year's Eve! I joined over 3 million people all dressed in white on Copacabana Beach and watched 20 minutes of the most amazing fireworks illuminate the city.

PS  Where is your favorite place that you have celebrated New Year’s Eve in?  I am always looking for new places!