A Weekend Break in Cornwall

One easy solution to this is to take a weekend break within the British Isles, an option that is becoming increasingly popular, and it’s easy to see why. Without the need to book flights, arrange travel insurance and spend your hard earned on pesky phrase books, the cost of your break will be significantly cut – and there is no better destination in Britain for a relaxed weekend of great weather and beautiful scenery than Cornwall.

If you think a weekend away in the most southerly county in England is for you, then perhaps consider the Cornish south coast town of Falmouth. Falmouth is the rising star of Cornwall’s holiday destinations, combining a great atmosphere and lots to do for all the family, with beautiful scenery and a position then lends itself ideally to exploring the Cornish countryside and coastline.

Begin your weekend away with a lounge on one of Falmouth’s 3 local beaches. Take in the beautiful scenery and sandy beaches of Gyllyngvase beach, a Blue Flag registered beach that is only a short walk from the town centre. When you are fully tanned and relaxed you can hop over to the Gylly Beach Café that overlooks the sand, serving a great mix of food made with fresh local ingredients and a full range of tea, coffee, wine and beer.

Take a short walk up the sea-front, up and around the famous Pendennis point and you will be able to see the magnificent Pendennis Castle, a mighty fortress built by Henry VIII to defend the country against invasion from the sea. The castle is open to visitors with regular guided tours to provide you with all the information on the castle you could ever need.

If you find that you are still eager to learn, then take another short walk back into Falmouth town centre, where you can visit the National Maritime Museum. Perfect for kids and adults alike the museum hosts a staggering array of historical nautical items, alongside interactive displays and regular exhibitions, workshops and special events.

As the day begins to draw to a close, stroll into the town centre and check out one of Falmouth’s many pubs and bars. For the true Cornish experience and friendly atmosphere, visit the Star and Garter public house on the town’s old high street. Stocked with a great selection of Cornish ales and blessed with incredible views over Falmouth harbour, the Star and Garter is a great place to take the weight off your feet after a hard days exploring.

To finish the day, visit every shellfish lover’s dream – The Wheel House – nestled down a tiny side street in Falmouth’s town centre. Although this restaurant has only been open for a year, it has already become Falmouth’s most talked about eateries. With a simple menu of the very freshest, straight of the quay shellfish, in a friendly ‘living room style’ surrounding, you will be sure to leave a very satisfied customer. Be sure to book your table at The Wheelhouse in advance, as waiting times for a table are often measured in months, not weeks or days.

Photo Credits: Tim Green & Darren Shilson
Article sponsored by the Post Office

Today’s sponsored article on Christmas Markets in Germany comes from Travelex Currency Services.*

A Guide to Christmas Markets in Germany

No-one does a Christmas market quite like Germany – and best of all it’s an easy country to travel to. Yet with the strength of the Euro fluctuating against the Pound it’s also advisable to seek the best foreign currency exchange before you go.

Here is just a taste of what you can expect from the German Christmas markets:

Berlin

Berlin is home to more than 50 individual markets, with one of the most famous being the Alexanderplatz market. Here you’ll feel especially festive with the Fairy Forest and an ice-skating rink. If you’re looking for some great traditional crafts and antique toys, consider heading to the Unter den Linden Christmas market, or if a market with a more party atmosphere and some serious shopping is what you require head to the Gedächtniskirche market right in the heart of the shopping, drinking and clubbing district of the city centre.

Munich

The traditional market on Marienplatz in Munich is one of the oldest in Germany, going back to the 14^th Century. It is set up on the city’s largest urban square and offers all kinds of handcrafted items and stunning treats, like gingerbread and roast apples. Another popular Christmas market to head to in Munich is Kripperlmarkt; here you’ll find traditional crafted nativity ornaments. If you really want the best in Christmas decorations this in an absolute must.

Cologne

The charming city of Cologne has a total of seven Christmas markets, with the main four located at Alter Markt, Cologne Cathedral, Neumarkt and Rudolfplatz. Cologne Cathedral is a stunning sight and provides the most unique backdrop to any of the Christmas markets in Cologne. Away from the big four there is also a medieval Christmas market held at the Chocolate Museum and an ice rink at Heumarkt.

Nuremburg

Nürnberg Christkindlesmarkt is one of Germany’s oldest and most famous Christmas markets and attracts over 2 million people every year. A chosen ‘Christ Child’ opens the market each year with a huge ceremony which is well worth dropping in for, as is the procession of children walking with lanterns through the town up to the castle. This market has everything you’d want from a Christmas market, such as gingerbread, traditional crafts, gluhwein and bratwurst.

This is just a snapshot of what Germany has to offer in terms of Christmas markets. There are widespread markets throughout the country including Münster, Stuttgart, Ludwigsburg, Lübeck, Düsseldorf, Baden-Baden and Aachen to name just a few.

Going shopping for birthday or Christmas presents is an ideal excuse to look for city breaks and this guide provided by travelsupermarket.com highlights the best cities outside of London to hunt for bargains.

Shopping in Newcastle

When shopping outside of the capital, one of the best places to head to may be Newcastle. The city’s Metrocentre is the largest retail and leisure complex in Europe and contains some 330 shops. These include well-known high street brands like Argos, but you will also come across several independent traders, such as Candle Essence.

If you’ve worked up an appetite after a morning’s shopping, head to one of the many restaurants and cafes for a bite to eat. You can also see the latest Hollywood blockbusters at the Odeon cinema.

The Metrocentre is about a 20-minute journey from central Newcastle, but if you’re staying in the city centre you may also want to visit Northumberland Street. This is one of the city’s main shopping areas and is home to the flagship Fenwick outlet, a chain of department stores that was founded in the region in 1882.

You can also visit the indoor Grainger Market, where you will not only find independent traders selling everything from handmade crafts to hardware, but also the world’s smallest Marks and Spencer store.

Shopping in Liverpool

Alternatively, you may want to visit Liverpool on a shopping trip.

Liverpool ONE launched in 2008 and is the largest open-air shopping centre in the country. There is some 1.65 million sq ft of leisure and retail space and with well-established brands such as Ann Summers and Sony having branches here, you will find lots of opportunity to splash your hard-earned cash.

Shops are open to 20:00 from Monday to Friday, until 19:00 on Saturdays and 17:00 on Sundays, so there should be plenty of time for you to find that perfect outfit.

Located nearby is Bold Street, where you will find some fantastic independent boutiques and gourmet food. But why not give your credit card a rest and take a breather at one of the many cafes that can be found here? One of the best things about the city is that everything is close together, and there are many hotels in Liverpool city centre which are ideal if you need a rest from spending your hard earned cash.

Shopping in Manchester

Elsewhere in the north-west, Manchester is a great place to go shopping. While you can visit the centrally-located Arndale Centre, it may be the Trafford Centre – which is around 20 minutes out of the city – that really catches your interest.

This three-floor shopping complex opened in 1998 and contains outlets such as Bench and Next. If you’re looking for jewellery, however, you’ll be in the right place to find it as HS Samuel and Swarovski also have branches here. For high-end fashion visit the area around King Street and St Ann’s Square, here you will find Vivienne Westwood and Armani stores, among others.

Shopping in Birmingham

Birmingham can also be a great place to go shopping, as it contains the historic Bullring centre. The development first began as an open-air medieval market but has undergone significant changes over the years to emerge as a modern 1.2 million sq ft shopping complex, home to brands such as River Island and French Connection.

And you’ll be in good company should you choose to visit Birmingham on a shopping break, as the Bullring claims to be the country’s most visited mall.

However, it may be the Selfridges branch that is the highlight of your trip, as the store has a unique design that takes its inspiration from a Paco Rabanne dress.

If you want a new pair of earrings or a necklace, stop by the Jewellery Quarter, as some 40 per cent of the UK’s jewellery is made here. Alternatively, why not visit Birmingham’s Farmers Market, which takes place twice a week on New Street to pick up some fresh local produce?

Shopping in Leeds

Last, but by no means least, is Leeds. Visiting the Yorkshire city’s White Rose Centre gives you the chance to buy goods such as artificial flowers and handmade costume jewellery from a number of independent traders.

There are also some well-established high street names, including HMV and Thorntons, but if you need help deciding what to buy, you can always make use of the personal shopping service for assistance. Other fantastic shopping centres in the city include the Corn Exchange and the Kirkgate Market, which is housed in a beautiful Edwardian building.

With so many fantastic places around the country to splash the cash, you will never be far away from brilliant shopping facilities.

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post from the Travel Supermarket Team

A Weekend in Madrid

Spain’s capital is hard to resist. It’s a city that packs a serious cultural punch, but doesn’t lack in nightlife either. With its architectural charm and friendly local population, it makes a great place for a cheap weekend break.

Situated in the heart of Spain, Madrid is full of cultural and historic sights. The Royal Palace is a beautiful site to visit, remains the largest royal palace in Western Europe and is considered to be Madrid’s most striking building. The Plaza de Oriente lies in front of the Palace, which means that visitors can enjoy the majestic surroundings of the palace in all its glory while relaxing in the sun or having a bite to eat.

Then there’s the Templo de Debod, an authentic 2nd Century BC Egyptian temple in the heart of the city. There is also the Madrid Cathedral, whose construction began in 1883 and continued right up until 1993.

In the east of the city stands Puerta de Alcalá, a structure with an impressive story to tell. This iconic building, adorned by many historic statues, is actually the old city gate which stands at the entrance to the Parque del Buen Retiro.

Art-lovers should head to Prado, one of Europe’s most outstanding art museums and the Reina Sofia, which houses Picasso’s Woman in Blue among others.

Food in Madrid

If all that sightseeing leaves you hungry then try Botin, the oldest restaurant in the world according to the Guinness Book of Records. Serving Spanish food in a traditional environment, this eatery has proven popular with tourists but still retains its authentic Spanish appeal. If you’re looking for something a little bit different, try La Corral de Moreia, one of Madrid’s finest flamenco restaurants.

Whatever you decide to do in Madrid, there are other things you can do to make your journey stress and hassle free. Make sure to book your Heathrow airport parking in advance of your departure date – the earlier you book it the cheaper it will be and if you’re looking for an extra little bit of luxury before you fly, why not book a Heathrow airport hotel so that you don’t need to worry about rushing for your flight in the morning.

Photos of Madrid from:

J. A. Alcaide
uitdragerij
midnightglory

As an initial guide, Brussels is the place to go if you’re attracted by city lights. If you’re more suited to medieval charm, then you’ll be lured in by Bruges’ gothic inspirations and old-world feel.

If you’re trying to decide where to base yourself for your weekend getaway, then here’s a guide to a few of the main attractions of both cities.

Brussels

Once a 10^th century fortress town, Brussels is now a bustling metropolis that is home to the EU headquarters and is a hub of international politics.  The city has managed to maintain its historic charm while offering all the mod cons of an international city. In Brussels, these are some of the attractions that await you.

Grand Place Brussels

- The Grand Place – The Grand Place is Brussels’ main square. Not only is it a UNESCO heritage site, but it’s also been voted the most beautiful square in Europe.  The baroque frames of the guildhalls border the square and add to its splendour. If you’re there in August you might catch the flower carpet, when the square’s floor is covered with begonias.

- Manneken Pis – One of the cutest and quirkiest attractions of the city, Manneken Pis is a small bronze statue of a young boy who is urinating into the fountain’s basin. The Friends of Manneken-Pis, a non-profit organisation, dress the statue in different costumes a couple of times a week.

- Atomium – The Atomium is an impressive monument in Brussels that was originally built for the World Fair of 1958. The monument is made up of 9 connected steel spheres in the shape of a cell of iron crystal. Inside the connectors of the spheres are escalators. The public can move between the spheres. The top sphere offers panoramic views of Brussels.

- Museums – There are a number of museums well worth a visit in Brussels. The Centre for Fine Arts houses the works of highly regarded Flemish painters. The Belgian Comic Strip Centre is a fun museum that showcases the Belgian love of comics (it is home to Tintin after all!) If your trip to Belgium is all about the chocolate, then head to the Museum of Chocolate and Cocoa – just a stone’s throw from the Grand Place.

- Breweries – Belgians love their beer and there are a number of breweries in Brussels well worth a visit. The Cantillon Brewery gets great reviews.

Bruges

The Hollywood blockbuster In Bruges was a great advertisement for the city, but to experience the historic charm and quaint architecture for yourself, you’ll have to hit the streets. Strolling through the city on foot is the best way to discover its nooks and crannies. You’ll probably come across these main attractions.

- The Canals – Bruges is often nicknamed ‘Venice of the North’. The canals are the focus of the city and give it a picturesque, chocolate box quality. Take a canal tour by boat and make sure you see them by night.

Take a Tour on the Bruges Canals

- Markt Square – This is the heart of Bruges’ Old Town and the main square. It’s surrounded by bustling shops and restaurants and holds markets, an icerink and impromptu concerts. The Belfry sits at the southern end of the square and can be climbed for spectacular views of the city.

- The Burg – Another town square, the Burg is surrounded by historic buildings and has a distinct medieval feel. The intricate detailing of the buildings and the gothic architecture is best seen when illuminated at night.

- Church of our Lady – This 13^th century church has a 122 metre high bell tower. The art, architecture and style of the church can be admired inside and out.

- Museums – History buffs will enjoy a visit to the Groeningemuseum and the Memling, featuring many of the finest Flemish artists’ work.

So which will you choose? Hop on cheap flights to Belgium to enjoy all that Bruges or Brussels has to offer.

Have you been to Belgium? Would you recommend Bruges or Brussels for a weekend getaway destination?

Fun things to do in London: A Mini Cooper Tour

Introducing a fun tour zooming around London with smallcarBIGCITY and their fleet of Mini Coopers.

Hop on in and enjoy!

Mini Cooper & Big Ben: Fun in London

Ten More Things To Do in London For Free

1 The Square Mile - Take yourself on a self-guided walk around the City of London. Start outside the Tower of London then mingle among the skyscrapers to catch a view of The Gherkin, the Roman walls just outside the Grange City Hotel and the Victorian Leadenhall Market.

2 Bushy Park - Head southwest to Teddington to visit the geese and swans that prowl around the former stomping ground of King Henry VIII.

3 5th View Bar – Take in a cool view of the city skyline from the bar that, perhaps bizarrely, lives in a bookshop

4 Piccadilly Circus – Watch neon signs flash and look out for Eros, the archer in the fountain, in one of London’s busiest junctions

5 Maida Vale Canals - Hop on a canal boat if you have the cash, otherwise walk along London’s secret canals in this affluent part of London.

6 Abbey Road – Pose on possibly the world’s most famous zebra crossing, just like the Beatles.

7 Portobello Road Market- The official line says “antiques” but the Portobello Road Market in Notting Hill has a much broader collection of trinkets than that.

8 The Courthouse Hotel – While you’re going to need to stump up plenty of cash to actually stay here, it’s free to enter the bar. Why would you want to do that? Well it used to be THE court house and it’s where Mick Jagger, among others, stood here to be counted. Little has changed since then, right down to the holding cell with a toilet.

9 The Barbican – This, er, striking modern building in central London puts on plays, films, concerts and dance performances. Better yet, some of these are free. Check their website for details.

10 The Science Museum - Play along with earthquake simulators, giant red blood cells and outer space in this surprisingly cool museum.

So there you have it. Another 10 Things To Do For Free in London.

Venice at dusk: exploring the secret side of Venice

Venice, as I’m sure you know, has a rich and classical list of things to see and do. Those include the understated majesty of St Mark’s Square, the flamboyance of the Doge’s Palace and the romantic thrill of singing “Just One Cornetto” as you glide along the canals on a gondola.

Yet sometimes, sometimes, Venice feels overcrowded and a little overrated. All that means is that you’re in the wrong part (or in an inexplicably foul mood.)

Unlock Venice’s Secrets

Finding the secret parts of Venice is incredibly easy. At some point along your well-signposted, thronging route towards St Mark’s Square, just turn left. Or right.

Wander over the bridges and through the tiny back streets to see the real side of Venice. The beautiful side of Venice. Walk past gardens and parks, families having dinner, locals indulging in a kayak race…Retrace history in Il Ghetto, the part of Venice that lent its name to ghettos everywhere else.

Sketching in Venice

It’s a small area, really. And it’s safe to wander around. So, wander and walk. Take your time and just enjoy being away from the crowds.

That’s the secret to falling in love with Venice

Edinburgh's Royal Mile - by N.Hewson

A truly outstanding city, Edinburgh weaves narrow cobble stoned alleyways, spires and picturesque landscapes together to balance its historic, old-town feel with its vibrant, modern urbanity.

Impressive medieval architecture, panoramic vistas, shops and dining, make Edinburgh – the capital city of Scotland – a perfect destination for a cheap weekend getaway. 

Things to See in Edinburgh

Edinburgh Castle 

Edinburgh Castle - Jordan S Hatcher

Sitting atop the city’s high, volcanic hill, Edinburgh Castle was built in the late 11^th Century. The site of various conquests, the castle has functioned as a royal residence (where Mary Queen of Scots gave birth to Prince James, who later became both King James IV of Scotland and James I of England) as well as a prison, military barracks and now a tourist attraction.Admission to the castle is affordable but not free.

Check the website ahead of time for online discounts.

Arthur’s Seat, Edinburgh

Arthur’s Seat is regarded as the best outlook point for bird’s-eye views of the city. At 250m, though, getting to the top of  requires a bit of physical effort.

Royal Mile, Edinburgh

This route, running from Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood Palace – the Queen’s Scottish residence, winds along Castle Esplanade, Castlehill, Lawnmarket Street, High Street, Cannongate and Abbey Strand. The streets are home to both culturally significant buildings like St. Giles Cathedral and the Scottish Supreme Court as well as a busy mix of pubs, cafes and local charm.

Royal Botanic Garden, Edinburgh 

Royal Botanic Garden, Edinburgh

Tour the Royal Botanic Garden for free and you’ll find nearly 34,000 plant varieties. The garden –originally a medicinal garden – offers a sampling of local landscape as well as the largest collection of Chinese plants outside of China.
 

Travel Tips for a Weekend in Edinburgh

Eating out in Edinburgh

Edinburgh’s dining scene certainly benefits from pub culture. Countless pubs serve local ales and dram (Scottish whiskey) in traditional style and offer an authentic Scottish experience.

The food in Edinburgh, that once had a less than flattering reputation, has certainly disproved any such claims. Cullen skink (traditional Scottish soup) or haggis (sheep’s heart, liver and lungs minced with onion, oatmeal, suet, spices and salt) with neeps and tatties (mashed turnip or rutabaga and potatoes) are a must, and fresh seafood, lam and Aberdeen Angus beef are favored by a growing, international foodie fan base.

Getting to Edinburgh 

Arthur's Seat, Edinburgh - by gray_um

Edinburgh airport, although international, is relatively small and easy to navigate. Airlink buses provide quick, convenient transportation into the city for less than £5.

Busses and trains into and out of the city also offer affordable transit options, connecting to various points in the UK.

When to Visit Edinburgh

Edinburgh’s Fringe Festival, regarded as the biggest arts festival in the world, takes places every August. Now a 50-year-old tradition, the festival attracts visitors from around the world. The original Edinburgh Festival itself features classical music and dance while the all encompassing Fringe Festival also includes music, drama, comedians, literature, TV and more.

If you opt not to go for the festival, then the cheapest time to visit Edinburgh is between November and Easter, which is considered the city’s off season (with the exception of Hogmany or New Year’s Eve.)

 -A Guest Post from Christine Fisher 

Christine Fisher is a contributing editor for WorldReviewer.com and a freelance journalist currently based in London.

Casa de la Pilatos, Seville

Often overlooked by the rest of the guidebooks, you should definitely add the Casa de la Pilatos to your plans for a weekend in Seville. This beautiful, elegant house, almost hidden in the narrow streets of the centre of Seville, deserves your attention. If you don’t have time for the Alhambra, try out the miniature version here.

Central Courtyard, Casa de la Pilatos, Seville

Casa de la Pilatos - Beautiful!

Cologne at Sunset

Cologne, perhaps Germany’s most colourful city, makes a great place for a fun cheap weekend break. From chocolate museums to charismatic breweries, cathedrals to the home of Eau de Cologne itself, the city of Cologne will keep you entertained.

Top Things to See and Do in Cologne

Cologne's Cathedral

Cologne’s Cathedral

Cologne’s cathedral was one of the few buildings spared during the WWII bombing raids. Between 1880 and 1884, the Dom was the tallest building in the world (something to bear in mind as you slog your way up the belltower’s staircase.) This isn’t your usual cathedral, though. Look inside for stained glass windows that feature outer space and modern art.

The Chocolate Museum

Although the Schokoladenmuseum has plenty of educational exhibits, the real draw is the chocolate fountain. Brilliantly placed in front of a sweeping glass window that overlooks the river and the skyline of Cologne, the fountain allows you to embrace your inner child and scoff a load of chocolate.

Kölsch

Cologne - A City of Breweries

Possibly the symbol of Cologne, this light and refreshing beer is served in test-tube shaped glasses across the city. Visit one of the authentic breweries, such as Cölner Hofbräu P. Josef Früh on Am Hof street, where waiters are called köbes and your bill is calculated by the number of notches on your beer mat.

The  Hohenzollernbrücke Bridge

Cologne Padlocks

Once a fairly ugly railway bridge, the exuberant declarations of love have transformed the functional into the fantastic. Stroll along to see glitter, padlocks and handcuffs as people search for new ways to say “I love you.”

Eau de Cologne

Yep, the name does actually come from this city. The famous perfumed water called No 4711 still flows in the shop that has traded it for over 200 years. You can visit the Glockengasse shop for free.

The Old Town – Altstadt

Cologne's Old Town

These narrow colourful houses give some impression of what the city must have been like before all those bombers came along. Filled with restaurants and, yes more breweries, it’s a great riverside area to stroll around.

The Rathaus

Every city has an elegant administrative building and Cologne’s Rathaus is no exception…well, except for the stone statues with their trousers around their ankles.

KölnTriangePanorama for a View of Cologne

 The KölnTrianglePanorma

OK, so the tower itself is nothing to write home about but the view from the top takes in the whole of Cologne. Visit as the sun sets for the best experience…

Getting to Cologne

Several budget airlines fly to Cologne, or you can travel by Eurostar, changing at Brussels (I travelled as part of the Eurostar Explorer expedition.)

Getting Around Cologne

Most of the attractions in Cologne are within walking distance of the train station (next to the cathedral), although if your legs get tired there is an underground system as well as a network of taxis.

Things to Do in Cologne

The United Kingdom has an array of beautiful landscapes which are easy to access by road. Whether you’re a native or a visitor, travel by car to explore the UK’s finest scenic routes.

Scenic Route One: The Atlantic Highway

Drive Through Exmoor - by Gravyphig

The “Atlantic Highway” stretches from Lynmouth to Newquay via Lauceston.

Start in Lynmouth and heading through a section of the Exmoor National Park towards Barnstaple. Exmoor National Park is famed for its walking trails that cover vast areas of open moorland and you may even see wild horses.

After joining the “Atlantic Highway” via the A399 at Blackmoor Gate, you could visit the local zoo. Exmoor Zoo is home to a whole host of different animals including penguins and meerkats (and there’s the Legend of the Beast, which has a dedicated Black Panther enclosure.)

Join the A39, the “Atlantic Highway” itself, and continue from Barnstaple down the coast towards Newquay. Stop off in Boscastle (PL34 0HE), a lovely village whose castle is believed to be the birthplace of King Arthur.

Your journey along the A39 will take you near The Big Sheep (EX39 5AP). This centre is home to a number of activities such as mountain boarding and high ropes, and there’s also the chance to see some edge of your seat action at the local sheep racing circuit.

Detouring to Launceston, you can take a trip on the Launceston steam railway (PL15 8DA), tackle a number of hiking paths or visit a farm park. 

Scenic Drive One

Details for Scenic Drive One

Lynmouth to Newquay (via Launceston.)Distance: 135 miles. Roads: A39, A395, A399. Postcodes: PL34 0HE (Tintagel) EX39 5AP (The Big Sheep) EX31 4SG (Exmoor Zoo) PL15 8DA (Launceston Steam Railway), EX35 6EO (Lynton & Lynmouth Cliff Railway)

Scenic Route Two: Belfast to Derry

Giant's Causeway - by smemon87

Northern Ireland is the home of the A2, which runs from Newry to Derry and passes through Belfast. This route runs alongside the northeast coastline and the picturesque Glens of Antrim.

Along this 128 mile coastal road, stop off at Ballintoy for the chance to walk the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge across a 20 metre wide chasm.

A 20 minute drive east of Portrush brings you to the ecological rarity of the Giant’s Causeway, a collection of basalt hexagonal columns produced by a previous volcanic eruption. This stunning attraction is situated in the Glens of Antrim, where the Bushmills distillery can also be found (BT57 8XH).

Scenic Drive Two

Details for Scenic Drive Two

Distance: 128 miles. Roads: A2. Postcodes: BT54 6LS (Ballintoy, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge) BT57 8XH (Bushmills Distillery)

Scenic Route Three: Conwy to Portmeirion

Snowdonia National Park - by Richard0

The Welsh route from Conwy to Portmeirion takes you on a journey through the Snowdonia National Park. Starting off in Conwy, with the famous Conwy Castle, you’ll pass through some traditional slate villages as well having the opportunity to enjoy Snowdon’s summit, either by sight or through your hiking boots.

Within Snowdonia, you’ll find the village of Betws-y-Coed, a camping hotspot and excellent starting point for your mountain drive. From Betws-y-Coed, Llanberis is only 17 miles away where you can enjoy a 4.7 mile trip to the summit of Mt Snowdon by means of a time-honoured steam train. From the peak, the highest point in England and Wales, you can relax and take in the panoramic views from the Hafod Eryri centre. For adults, a return ticket will cost £25, while a child’s ticket is £18. You can easily opt for a single ticket if you wish to walk part of the distance. A trip to the summit will take around 5 hours, and there are a variety of different routes to get you there, depending on how energetic you’re feeling.

Scenic Drive Three

Details for Scenic Drive Three

Distance: 38.5 miles. Roads: B5106, A5, A4068, A498. Postcodes: LL48 6ER (Portmeirion)  LL55 4TY (Llanberis Lake Railway) LL32 8LD (Conwy Castle)

Scenic Route Four: Glasgow to Inverness

Drive the Loch Ness Area - by conner395

The scenic drive from Glasgow to Inverness takes you through the majestic and timeless Munros. These mountain ranges dominate the Scottish skyline and offer truly mesmerising views. The route also includes the Loch Ness, with a dedicated exhibition centre that explores the legend of the monster (£4.50 for children and £6.50 for adult entry). If you happen to visit during June, be sure to give the RockNess dance music festival a try.

You’ll also have the opportunity to visit the largest loch in Great Britain, the stunning Loch Lomond. At 27 square miles (71km²), this loch contains around 60 small islands, including Inchconnachan and its settlement of wallabies.

For water sports, Loch Lomond offers jet skiing, boating and canoeing, whereas for other kinds of driving, try out the surrounding golf courses.

On the way to Inverness, you can see Britain’s highest point: Ben Nevis.

This 4,409ft peak sits at the head of Loch Linnhe and is visible from Fort William, a popular winter sports destination. From the Nevis Range Ski Centre, you can ski, snowboard and even mountain bike. There’s also the chance to enjoy the landscape from the comforts of a 650m gondola via the Mountain Discovery Centre.

Scenic Drive Four

Details for Scenic Drive Four

Distance: 170 miles. Roads: A9, A82, A827, A93. Postcodes: IV63 6TU (Loch Ness Exhibition Centre) PH33 6SQ (Nevis Range) PH18 5TL (Blair Castle)

Scenic Route Five: The Lake District

Helvellyn -by IanBrookesPhotography

For those looking to experience nature during their drive, the Lake District offers astonishing beauty. This circular route includes the popular towns of Kendal and Keswick, as well as winding around 29 miles of the national park to provide views of Lake Windermere, Lake Thirlmere and the Lakeland Fells.

The village of Grasmere has inspired poets such as Coleridge and Wordsworth and today you can visit Dove Cottage, one of Wordsworth’s former houses, for £7.50 for adults and £4.50 for children.  

Travelling east along the A66 from Keswick onto the A5091 brings you to Ullswater Lake, the second largest body of water in the Lake District. Ullswater offers Steamer tours (£2.80 per child, £5.60 per adult, each way) that cruise the lake from the village of Glenridding or Pooley Bridge to Howtown. The Lakeland Fell area also has many trail paths, so you can take a leisurely stroll within the lakes’ beauty.

For more demanding hike routes, travel to Glenridding, the base of the third highest mountain in the UK. At 3,117ft, Helvellyn has many tough trails for more experienced hikers, although summit routes aren’t the only ones available. Ask the local tourist information office for more information on walking routes.

Scenic Drive Five

Details for Scenic Drive Five

Kendal to Kendal, circular route: (via Keswick & Glenridding.) Distance: 67.8m. Roads: A5284, A591, A66, A5091, A592. Postcodes: LA22 9SQ (Dove Cottage – Wordsworth Museum) CA11 0US (Ullswater Steamers)

This guest post was written by Michael Wade of the car hire team at travelsupermarket.com

Eurostar Weekend Breaks - More Than Paris

Amsterdam, the Netherlands – 4h16*

Cologne, Germany – 4h11*

Lyon, France – 5h*

Avignon, France – 5h55*

Bruges, Belgium – 3h30*

*From London King’s Cross St Pancras Station

Now, as it turns out, this isn’t quite the journey time from London to the place of interest. It’s the amount of time you spend on a train. So, the trip to Cologne took around two hours to Brussels, where there was a connection to Cologne. That second train lasted another two hours.

Eurostar vs Flights

Looking only at flight times (around 1h30 London to Cologne), air definitely seems faster than travelling by rail. However, for international flights you need to be at the airport two hours before departure, whereas with Eurostar it is only 30 minutes. For the Cologne to Brussels train, as long as you leap onto the train in time, all is well.

The Advantages of Eurostar Weekend Breaks

Explore Europe with Eurostar at the Weekend

Train stations also tend to be in more convenient places. It is certainly easier to travel into London (or to the rest of the UK) from King’s Cross than from any of the London airports. Likewise, the main station in Cologne is right next to its most well-known sight – the Cologne Cathedral. The Gare du Nord in Paris, also allows you to enjoy the City of Lights as soon as you arrive, whereas the airport is outside the city.

The Disadvantages of Eurostar Weekend Breaks

Airports tend to have nicer waiting areas with more options for food, drink and shopping – although this is variable. The new Eurostar terminal at King’s Cross is a fantastic place: light and airy with plenty of facilities and free wifi. Brussels, however, isn’t quite as good.

You don’t need to check your luggage in when travelling by train, which frees you from queues and waiting at baggage reclaim. On the other hand, that means you have it with you all the time, which can become a nuisance.

Eurostar Weekend Breaks - The Overall Verdict?

Consider travelling by train with Eurostar for a weekend break away if you’re based anywhere near London. Remember to check the connection time when comparing train and flight journey times – and enjoy your weekend break!

Visiting London, never mind living there, can be extremely expensive. What makes the situation even worse is the fact that the city has so much to offer and the temptations are too hard to resist!

London's Theatres for Less

One of the things London is famous for is its great theatre shows: drama acts with many excellent improvisations, comedy performances with brilliant black humour and the loveable musicals.

So, what is the best advice for someone who loves London and wants to experience it to the max?  These tips and tricks to get into London’s top theatres for less…

1. “tkts”-

 This wonderful organisation was established in 1980 and since then it has become the most famous “half price” ticket booth in London. tkts is managed by the Society of London Theatre and their main aim is to give every person, rich or poor, the option to go to the theatre. Visit their booth either in the Clocktower building in the centre of Leicester Square or in the Brent Cross shopping center.  To find more locations and information visit their site.

2. “DiscountTheatre.com”-

This is a brilliant way to get a cheaper theatre ticket without even leaving the house! The site offers a secure payment system and a guarantee that you will have the same seat you requested on the reservation form. Visiting their site will not only assure you a ticket to the best show in town, it will also give you the option to explore some hotter deals such as: “buy a theatre ticket and get a free night in a Central London hotel!”

3. Standby-

You will be surprised by the number of theatres that offer standby purchase options- even the biggest shows get cancellations from time to time! Unfortunately for some of you, this opportunity is only available for 60+ retired citizens, students who study full time or members of the theatre union. In order to get a standby ticket, you will need to arrive about an hour before the show starts. If there are any tickets left, you can buy them for up to 70% off the original price!

4. Go with all your friends!

This is by far our favourite solution! If you book tickets for a group of 10 or more people, you can ask for a discount. The more people, the cheaper the price gets! Before buying tickets, call the theatre you wish to go to, tell them your situation, be polite and see if they can make an offer!

5. Move After Lights Out

This is a tricky one indeed, but worth trying. The further you are from the stage, the cheaper the ticket. Wait until the lights are out and the play has started, and then sneak quickly to the front to take up any empty seats. Good luck!

EasyToBook.com specialises in discount rates on hotels all over the world, from simple motels all the way up to celebrated 5-star venues. For more information about hotels in London, visit their site!

Monte Carlo Casino

Stepping into the Casino in Monte Carlo brings about a rush of James Bond fever. After passing rows of luxury cars and stepping beneath the elegant doorway, I entered this world of hushed tones, plush fabrics and polished mahogany braced for vodka martinis and a thrilling car chase.

Of course, I didn’t exactly have the kind of cash that granted me access to those private areas, but for 10 euros and an “appropriate” dress code, I was allowed into the Salon Europe and the Salon des Amériques. There, suitably distinguished others tried their luck at roulette, poker and Black Jack.

Even if you don’t plan on risking a single penny on the games, it’s worth visiting the Monte Carlo Casino to enjoy the architecture, the location and the legend.

Perched on the hilltop of Monaco, one of the world’s richest principalities, the Casino has spectacular views across the harbour of Monte Carlo. Since yachts are as common as cars in UK suburbia (and people aren’t troubled by their latest tax bill), this compact harbour dazzles with the reflections of streetlights on gleaming yachts.

The Casino itself also has no understanding of the word “moderation.” From the fountains and gardens outside, to the Belle Epoque façade and grand inner Atrium complete with marble columns, it’s easy to understand why this place sparked Fleming’s imagination when he wrote Casino Royale.

Find up to date information about the Monte Carlo Casino here.