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How Colorful is the Caribbean?
Friday, December 09th, 2011 /

We usually see and imagine the Caribbean as a haven with white-sand beaches, endless parties and overflowing tropical drinks. Indeed, it is a very beautiful image of Caribbean but the islands offers a lot more that what is seen.

Once you have arrived, you will see a colorful mix of contradictions. The islands house different interesting cultures with a history found on piracy, plantations, revolutions and colonial invasions. The sands on the beaches have a variety of incredible shades, from powdery white and pinkish to mocha brown and midnight black.

World’s Finest Beaches

Since Caribbean is best known for beaches, there are beaches that are suitable for different kinds of people and the mood that they go with. You can choose isolated beaches, for adventure, for a quiet stroll, for socialization, for sense of history, for picture-perfect moments, and for children-friendly beaches. As a matter of fact, you’ll never run out of sun and fun in Caribbean in terms of the number of beaches that you can visit.

Great Dining

Caribbean can feed you in any way that can make you feel comfortable – from fine dining or beach side burgers and barbeques. It has a very diverse cuisine that comes from different parts of the globe. You can choose to eat in different ambiance, from rain forests to stunning beaches. There are also exotic food, a wide variety of fruits, and glorious seafood that you can even catch on your own.

Fun Diving

Caribbean is not just about splendor on the surface. Dive below and you will see untouched paradise – a playground of exotic sea creatures and colors. It is a tranquil world filled with life and mankind never lords over them. For millions of years, the Caribbean underwater world is created and refined by nature. The reefs aren’t the only attraction. If you are more daring, you can go and explore shipwrecks.

Vibrant History and Culture

Caribbean has become a melting pot for different cultures from Asia, Africa and Europe. Because different kinds of people came and lived together with the natives, Caribbean has developed a peaceful culture where people co-exist peacefully with one another.

Countless Sports, Recreation and Wellness

There are different sports and leisure activities available to visitors. The sea and sand offers innumerable land and water recreation such as golf, horseback riding, tennis, sailing, surf riding, parasailing, cruising and more. Caribbean also offers wellness and spa centers that uses local ingredients that are popularly used in high-end products. Indulge yourself to a relaxing treat that will take away stress from a day’s adventure.

Colorful Music

Music is inseparable to Caribbean, an integral part of its life like the sea and the sun. Festivals and other cultural events are alive whenever talented musicians get together which could happen on the beach, street, resorts or town centers. Its music is a rich combination of native and colonial past – and has produced rhythms that made the world sing and dance together.

Treasured Weddings and Honeymoons

Wedding is the most important day of your life and if you want to make it unforgettable, have it in the Caribbean. Whether you are saying your vows or renewing your commitments, it can be made perfect along the beach while the sun sets, in a historical site, or underwater – however you like it to happen. Caribbean is on of the most romantic places in the world.

Indeed, Caribbean is a paradise. You will surely fall under its spell from the moment you dig your toes into the sand or take the first dip into the azure waters. Getting into a Caribbean trip will make you remember that first interaction with sea turtles or the soaring tropical birds in unscathed tropical forests. Its rhythm will make you dance and sing out loud while you sip on tropical drinks. And yes, those soothing massage and afternoon nap in the hammocks are the best way to relax after feasting on scrumptious seafood and spicy delicacies.

Andy works for Kenwood Travel, they specialize in providing the best holidays to St Lucia and the whole of the Caribbean. Comment below for more advice.

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The Greatest Castles in Ireland
Friday, December 09th, 2011 /

A visit to Ireland is a history buff’s dream come true, because there are so many wonderfully well preserved examples of medieval architecture to wander through and explore. If you are fascinated by what life would have been like in the Middle Ages, you can visit the stone steps, ancient battlements, and ornate rooms of many authentic castles. These buildings have been the setting for many important events within the history of Ireland, and many are open to the public to enjoy.
Here are a few of the best castles to visit in Ireland:

Blarney Castle

This famous Irish castle was build around 1446, for the MacCarthy Chieftans of Munster, and it can be found just outside of Blarney Village, near the city of Cork. The structure is now in partial ruins, but several rooms are accessible to view. The Blarney Castle is famous for its “Blarney Stone” which is fabled to give the “gift of the gab” to anyone who kisses its surface. Some believe that this stone is the Lia Fail, the magical stone on which Irish kings throughout history were crowned. To kiss the stone you must bend over backwards precariously over the parapet to reach it. While you are here, be sure to take a walk through the extensive gardens and visit the many strange natural rock formations such as the “Witch’s Cave” and the “Wishing Steps”.

Blarney Castle

Dublin Castle

This castle was the stronghold of British power within Ireland for over 700 years. Originally a 13th century Norman and Viking fortress, now only one tower remains of the original structure and an 18th century castle has been built on the site. Dublin Castle was once the residence of the official British viceroys in Ireland, and it is now used by the Irish Government. If you are a passionate history enthusiast, you will love the guided tour around the castle.

Dublin Castle

Cahir Castle

This is one of the largest and best preserved castles in Ireland, and can be found near Cahir town centre in South Tipperary. Built in 1142 by the Prince of Thomond, this castle has many fascinating chambers, spiral staircases, and high battlements to explore. Be sure to take one of the educational tours offered at the castle, which explain the fascinating history of the site.

Cahir Castle

Ashford Castle

Would you like to live in a medieval castle and experience what it would have been like to be a king or a queen? If so, book a stay in Ashford Castle, which is a beautifully restored castle built in 1228 which has been turned into a luxury five star hotel. Ashford Castle was originally the stronghold of the de Burgo family, back in the days when Ireland was a vast and untamed wilderness. This beautiful castle is a stunning place to stay, and it has hosted many famous guests throughout the years such as John Lennon, King George V, Oscar Wilde, Ronald Reagan, John Wayne, Brad Pitt, and U.S. Senator Ted Kennedy. If you are on a budget and don’t want to splurge on a night in these sumptuous surroundings, go ahead and visit the castle anyway so you can marvel at its amazing architecture.

These are just a few of the many beautiful castles that are waiting to be explored, so why not take a flight to Ireland and discover the fascinating medieval world of the emerald isle?

Simon Grant loves to write and currently contributes to a number of travel blogs and websites, including Time to Wander

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Where Will You Spend Christmas This Year?
Wednesday, December 07th, 2011 /

With the great coupons and travel deals available right now, it’s the perfect time to make your holidays more exciting. Forget the traditional trip to Grandma’s house, head to the birthplace of Jesus Christ or visit one of the most spectacular living nativities in the world. Visiting any one of these five vacations is sure to change how you spend the holidays forever.

Bethlehem

The purported birthplace of Christ, Bethlehem truly shines at Christmas time. Different sects of the church celebrate Christ’s birth on different dates making the entire season one of merriment. In no other country in the world will you find a more traditional Christmas than in Bethlehem. Visit Manger Square and the Church of the Nativity, paying close attention to the Grotto of the Nativity. It is here where the faithful believe Jesus lay his head.

Bethlehem

Spain

In a variety of cities and towns across the country, citizens reenact the nativity quite elaborately. It is not uncommon to see townspeople recreating the birth of the baby Jesus while dressed in splendorous costumes. The Nativity is so special to the Spanish that many will decorate their homes and workplaces with it in lieu of a Christmas tree.

Finland

Heading to Santa Claus Village in Finland will earn you a meeting with the man himself. It is said that Santa Claus claimed Rovaniemi as his home several years ago and has been spreading joy among children and adults since. While Santa’s village is in full operation every day of the year, there is no more special time to visit than during the Christmas season.

New York City

NYC is a remarkable city no matter the time of year but it really comes to life during the holiday season. From ice skating in Central Park to visiting the Christmas tree outside of Rockefeller Centre, there is no shortage of Christmas inspired sights to behold. It’s near impossible to run out of things to do in the city, but if you find yourself looking for an activity, simply take a stroll down the main strip and gawk at the amazing Christmas displays in the windows of the finest shops in the world.

Rockefeller Centre

London

If you’ve ever dreamt of a holiday in the UK, there’s no better time than Christmas. London is breathtaking during the holidays with bright lights, shows and plentiful shopping opportunity. Be sure to stop by Covent Garden and Trafalgar Square to see the best Christmas light displays in the city. Not sure what to get that special someone? Stop by Harrods, one of the most famous department stores in the world, to find a truly perfect gift.

London

The best holiday traditions are those that you create as a family. There’s no rule that says you have to remain at home for Christmas. Vacation in one of these beautiful cities and see how Christmas is celebrated around the world. It’s a tradition you’re sure to keep!

Ever heard of couponcroc.co.uk? Neither had Tom Blanchard until a friend referred him to the site. Now Tom is an avid user, and he enjoys sharing his advice and tips on couponing. Experts agree that Coupon Croc is an excellent place to find great deals for the family.

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Coffs Harbour: Australia’s Holiday Coast
Monday, November 28th, 2011 /

The advertising slogan for Coffs Harbour, on the north coast of New South Wales, calls it the "Holiday Coast." This is no exaggeration: Formerly called the "Banana Coast", because of the large banana plantations that exist there, tourism has become the largest industry in the area.  The same subtropical climate that makes it ideal for growing bananas is a large part of its attraction for tourists.

Tourism in Coffs Harbour is a relatively recent development. According to legend, the first settlers there were escaped convicts. In the 1840s, the densely forested area started to be exploited for its timber. The harbor, too, was a bustling hive of activity until the 1865 Carywell ship wreck. For many years after that, it was considered too dangerous, until finally a lighthouse was erected in 1878.

Compared with fishing and forestry, banana growing was a relative latecomer to Coffs Harbour, but not long after banana plantations were established, the region became known as the "banana belt" and the "banana coast." The fact that the banana plantations extended almost to the edge of the busy Pacific Highway had something to do with this, but the construction of the "Big Banana" at the northern end of Coffs Harbour had more to do with it. For over forty years, the Big Banana has been a major Coffs Harbour attraction.

The first bananas were grown in Coffs Harbour towards the end of the 19th century, but the industry didn’t become big there until the 1920s, when a disease devastated banana crops north of the area. When the railway line was completed in 1923, Coffs Harbour finally became easily accessible from Sydney and the local tourism industry began.

Tourism never stopped developing in Coffs Harbour. The combination of balmy weather and clear, warm ocean waters made it popular with ocean loving Australians and the region is famous for surfing, fishing, scuba diving, whale watching and just plain lounging at the beach.

Of course, as tourism grew, so did the opportunities for tourist oriented businesses. Today, Coffs Harbour and surrounding areas are a shopper’s cornucopia. Aside from all the local enterprises, smaller communities like Bellingen, in the hinterland to the west of Coffs Harbour are famous throughout Australia for their arts and crafts communities. In Bellingen, establishments like the Old Butter Factory and the Yellow Shed offer hand crafted gifts, souvenirs, furniture and homewares that can be found nowhere else in Australia.

Not far from Coffs Harbour is the town of Woolgoolga. You can’t miss it because of the large domed structure that resembles a mini Taj Mahal. Woolgoolga was settled originally primarily by Indian migrants and is famous throughout Australia for having some of the best authentic Indian cuisine in the country.

Clearly, you can’t see everything the Holiday Coast has to offer in just a day or two. Don’t just make the Coffs Harbour area a short stopover. Settle down in a Coffs Harbour accommodation and give yourself time to see everything it has to offer. Don’t limit yourself to the town center and beaches, either. Explore the towns and villages all around Coffs Harbour and you will see firsthand why it is called the Holiday Coast.

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A Weekend in Barcelona
Monday, November 28th, 2011 /

If you’re planning a weekend trip to Barcelona, Spain, set aside time to explore this vibrant city’s many cultural, historic and scenic attractions. Long a center of culture and trade, this Mediterranean port city is home to some of the world’s most unique architecture, from Antoni Gaudi’s churches to Gothic cathedrals, and ground-breaking artists, from Pablo Picasso to Joan Miro.

History

Explore Barcelona’s rich artistic history at the Museu Picasso. Set in a series of medieval stone houses, the museum’s collections include works from Picasso’s early days. No visitor to Spain can fail to notice the Spanish obsession with football, or soccer as it’s known in the U.S. Learn about the history of the beautiful sport at the Museu del Futbol Club Barcelona. Located next to the city’s stadium, this homage to futbal contains photographs and artifacts from the club’s long history. Marvel at the La Sagrada Família, Gaudi’s most famous structure. Still unfinished after more than 100 years of construction, this tall, spiralling church — consecrated by the Pope — is an architectural wonder. 

Culture

Spend an afternoon strolling through the architectural wonderland that is Park Guell. Designed by famed architect Gaudi, this public park is filled with curving benches, ceramic reptiles, amazing views and houses straight out of a fairy tale. No trip to Barcelona would be complete without a walk through the l’Eixample district, full of modernist structures such as Gaudi’s La Pedera. Stop by the Fundació Joan Miró, a gallery filled with Miro’s abstract works or visit the charming Museu del Calçat, a museum filled with shoes worn by celebrities.

Fundació Joan Miró

Dine

For a taste of local cuisine, explore the Mercat de la Boqueria. This fresh-foods market, frequented by local chefs, sells everything from produce and meats to wine, cheeses and seafood. Head to Bar Celta for tapas — Spanish for appetizers – and a glass of wine before dinner. The restaurant’s menu focuses on fresh seafood. Settle in at the Cafè Zurich for an afternoon of people watching. Set on the bustling Plaça de Catalunya, this café is open late and features outdoor seating. 

Stay

Barcelona is full of hotels, ranging from huge international chains to quirky boutique accommodations. If you prefer a sleek, urban feel, stay at the Axel Hotel Barcelona. This contemporary boutique hotel features a day spa and thoughtfully decorated rooms. Antique lovers will enjoy the Hotel Graniva; set in a renovated 1800s-era building in the vibrant L’Eixample district, the Hotel features antiques and period furnishings. Art enthusiasts can stay at the Hotel Claris, which contains a museum-grade collection of modern art. If you’re traveling on a budget, stay at the Hostal Gat Raval. It’s designed for backpackers, yet offers stylish, comfortable rooms.

The Luton Airport Parking team hope you enjoyed this weekend guide to Barcelona.

As one of the destinations of Luton Airport, you may find yourself flying from there to Barcelona. If you do, and you are looking for parking at Luton Airport; be sure to visit their website.

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10 Reasons Why You Should Choose A Canal Boat Holiday
Friday, November 25th, 2011 /

Sometimes going to the same place year after year for your holiday can become a little tiresome; sometimes you fancy something a little bit different. If you yearn for a holiday that is both relaxing, filled with great scenery and still retains some of the comforts of home you could do a lot worse than a canal boat holiday. If you haven’t ever considered one of these kinds of holiday you are in for a real treat.

Canal Boat

Canal holidays are one of the greatest ways to bring a family together and (barring the sometimes erratic English weather) can be a great way to unwind and just take it easy. Here are 10 reasons why you should ditch Benidorm this year and go on a canal boat holiday:

1. Its kid friendly – while you might think children and confined spaces don’t mix, there’s plenty for kids to do on a canal holiday. And unless the weather’s dreadful, apart from sleeping, you’re not likely to spend much time on the boat. There are too many places to see and visit.

2. Its pet friendly – if you don’t want to leave your dog at home, or shell out for boarding kennels, many operators allow dogs on board. And the amount of walking you’ll do makes this a fantastic holiday for dogs. Just remember to bring blankets for them to protect sofas and bedding.

dog on board

3. You can go wherever you like – Unlike some holidays where you’re tied into a package deal, hiring a canal boat gives you a lot of freedom. Many operators offer a choice of different cruising routes, so you can simply pick whichever one appeals to you most and visit the places that interest you.

4. You can come and go as you please. You don’t have to stay on the boat at all times. If you pass something or somewhere that interests you, you can simply moor the boat and explore, obviously making sure you choose a suitable spot.

5. You can bring your bike. Boat hire companies will usually allow you to take a limited number of bikes on board with you. Towpaths and country lanes are perfect for taking the family on exploratory bike rides.

6. It’s perfect for beginners and canal enthusiasts. You don’t have to have experience to drive a canal boat. Boat hire companies provide full training before you leave their premises, during which time staff are on hand to answer your questions and put to rest any concerns you might have.

7. You’ll see places you’d not get to see otherwise, and discover some hidden gems. It’s amazing the kinds of sites that you will see that other people won’t – just because they are out of the reach of the city centre!

8. You can enjoy the great outdoors. Although you will spend a lot of time on the boat you will be driving from the outside and if the weather is good there is nothing more relaxing that sunbathing on the top of the boat (it beats the business of a beach and you don’t have the screaming kids that sometimes are obligatory at6 a hotel pool!)

9. Its fun whatever the weather! Yes, the English weather is erratic but the inside of a narrow boat is cosy and you can really connect as a family – something that seems to be getting lost in modern life.

10. Its wallet friendly! With people still tightening their belts you can be sure that you are going to be spending a bomb on useless souvenirs and over priced hotel bar drinks.

Leave your preconceptions at the door and try a different kind of holiday this year – you never know what you are going to discover!

When not dreaming of what to do for holiday next year (we all need at least two!) Wayne Barker writes for Hire A Canal Boat, one of the largest providers of luxury narrow boat hire in the UK.

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Amazing Attractions and Sights in Florence, Italy
Tuesday, November 22nd, 2011 /

From it’s amazing architectural building designs to it’s world-famous pizzerias, Florence, Italy is one of the world’s top tourist destinations. Sources ranging from history books to television shows all depict the family-like nature of Italian culture and the amazing sights of historic art galleries. Unique styles and desirable weather are also factors that attract individuals all over the world to this amazing city.

One of the most infamous characteristics that Florence, Italy is known for is it’s amazing art galleries and one-of-a-kind artists. To begin with, The Galleria degli Uffizi is a vast collection of Renaissance artwork and is one of Florence’s busiest attractions. Another top artistic galleria is the The Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore, which features the piece, "Giotto’s Tower." However, perhaps one of the most popular art galleries in Florence is The Accademia, which houses Michangelo’s famous painting "David." Serving as a home to all of these various art galleries and infamous paintings, it is no wonder why Florence, Italy is the choice destination for many art enthusiasts.

The Galleria degli Uffizi

Aside from artistic destinations, Florence is also well-known for it’s many unique architectural structures. One of the top sights is the The Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore, which was a former monestary. This structure inhabits many cells that monks previously dwelled in and houses many different artistic works. Another structure that is visitors wish to see is the Porta Roma. This wall is located at the end of a road that pilgrims previously travelled to get from Florence to Rome and features a square below where fairs used to be held.

In addition to the great architecture and art that Florence features, this city also has many other hidden treasures that are to-die-for. For those who enjoy music, the Opera at St. Mark’s Anglican Church is a must-see. On the other hand, for those who enjoy the finer things in life, mainly wine, the Florence Wine Academy is a promising attraction. Visitors can taste wine and rely on a personal experience that will leave you satisfied.

Florence is also home to a vast variety of local shops. From luxury boutiques to craftsmen shops, tourists are guaranteed to find an item they love in one of Florence’s local shops that are peppered in around other historical attractions. Fresh food markets, including wine and cheese, are also some favorite places to visit. 

Although all of these aforementioned attractions are some of Florence, Italy’s most visited attractions, tourists can never get enough of the local Italian food options, general Italian culture, and amazing city life. No matter what type of vacation you enjoy, you are sure to find entertainment in a visit to Florence, Italy.

Worldwide-Accom loves providing tips and information on your favourite holiday destinations. If you want a more authentic Tuscany experience, there are many private apartments in Florence to rent for your vacation. Worldwide Accom specialises in Florence holiday apartments, and can cater to almost any budget.

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Traveling Around New York? Use These 8 Tools to Cut Back On Transport Stress
Thursday, November 17th, 2011 /

Traveling is an amazing experience, no matter where you go. You are seeing a place for the first time – or again after a time away – and leaving your life behind for a vacation. It is rejuvenating, fun…and exhausting, at times. Even if your intention is to make it run as smoothly as possible.

That is because no one can plan for every possible eventuality, no matter how hard they try. The biggest problem for a traveller heading to New York is all about transportation. In such a large and crowded city, that can cause a lot of stress. Which is the last thing you want on holiday.

But these excellent transportation apps can help you get around that and stay relaxed.

1. PrimoSpot

Finding parking in a large city is painful. Which is why so many people in New York don’t bother buying a car, and instead stick with public transportation like the subway, the bus and cabs. But you might find yourself wanting a rental, which means knowing where to park. PrimoSpot works by letting you put in your location, and then finding all free parking lots and garages in the area. It will also show you the conditions of the spot, such as when it is illegal to park.

 

2. Roadify

This is another parking app. But it works a little bit differently. The spots are offered up by users, or they just inform others of their location when they come across them. Every time they share a spot, they are awarded Street Carma, which are points that go towards rewards. This might be a free coffee from a local cafe, a percentage discount at a local shop, some free food or anything else. While you are in New York, you can keep an eye out as well, and get some cool freebies as a result.

3. Best Parking

Sometimes you just can’t find free parking. Which gives you the next best thing: cheap parking. Best Parking is an app that looks at all of the paid garages, lots and curbs in New York – as well as a dozen other cities – and compares the costs and distance for you. So you can make an informed decision before you drive there. You can also calculate rates based on the time of your arrival or departure.

4. NYC Mate Maps

It is ridiculously easy to get lost in New York, even when you live there. When you are a tourist enjoying a vacation, it is almost expected. NYC Mate Maps takes your iPhone and makes it into a fantastic digital road companion. It has both a road map, a transit map and all transport times for local buses and subway stops. They just released an Android compatible version in the Android marketplace, as well.

5. Metropol

Another great map application to have in your arsenal, this one provides you with a real, solid foundation for building a travel schedule through New York, or any other major city in their collection. There are 70 current cities on the list, from all over the world. So it is a must have for anyone who is going to be doing a love of moving from place to place. You can also help others by providing a map of your own city.

6. TaxiMe

Taxis are always a decent option to get around while in NYC. But they add up quick, and you might not be prepared for the amount of fare run up on the meter when you get stuck in traffic, take an alternate route, or just in general. So this app is nice to have. It gives you the ability to calculate the estimated fare based on current averages in the city. That will help you decide if it is worth taking a taxi, or if you should stick with the subway.

7. RideTheCity

Maybe you like to bike, and plan on doing a bit to get around while in town. This is a great idea, for health, saving money and just helping to reduce the effect on the environment. There are a lot of bikers in NYC, but not all streets are safe for them. Which is why every one should have this app. It allows you to plan routes according to safe streets for riding.

8. TriptopNYC

Planning to catch a show, or meet someone for a bite? This application lets you see just how much time any given trip will take you. It is registration-free and you has a nifty comparison tool that lets you put in more than one route and see which is faster. You can also check two different addresses, if you want to see where you can get to faster.

Conclusion

Going to New York is truly an amazing experience. But there is a lot to be desired in transport if you aren’t from there. This can give you an edge and help you to get around more effectively, not to mention more safely.

Annie is a lifestyle blogger for Vacation Pass, the premiere resource of traveling deals and coupons. Check out our New York Pass Coupons section and plan you budget trip to NY now!

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7 Alternative Tourist Destinations That You Must Visit
Friday, November 04th, 2011 /

Sure, going to Rome or Amsterdam in the summertime is nice – but it’s awfully crowded. Most people don’t enjoy standing in huge lines or being pushed around in big groups of people when they travel – after all, traveling is supposed to be about soaking up good cultural experiences, not sweating for six hours just to see one piece of art. So, here are some alternative tourist destinations – some off-the-beaten path places that you would be absolutely crazy to miss:

  1. West Bali National Park. Bali in itself is wonderful, but this park has an enormous amount to offer. Whether it’s snorkeling you want (this is the number one snorkel spot in Bali), camping or hiking, fishing, or canoeing – West Bali National Park has it all. You’ll be able to see some amazing wildlife, including some of the rarest birds in the world, and if you’re lucky, dolphins. This is one seriously great park to visit if you like eco-friendly, non-touristy, gorgeously scenic places.  Pulau Menjangan, Bali West National Park.
  2. Berlin. Skip Munich and head straight for Berlin, the capital city of Germany and one of the coolest places in Europe. Berlin has one of the most lauded underground art and music scenes, and there is so much to see and do here. For a bit of history, check out the Berlin Wall Memorial or the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe. Berlin isn’t short on culture – there’s a plethora of museums to check out, as well.
  3. Croatia. Beautiful coastlines, the sea, beaches ringed with pine trees, ancient ruins, a pulsing nightlife – what’s not to love? This country has an identity all its own, that is completely unlike any other place in the world.
  4. Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This Tennessee park is one of the most underrated spots of natural beauty in the United States. The park is home to glorious waterfalls, over 900 miles of hiking trails, tons of different tree species, and of course, the lovely Smoky Mountains. Seriously, this place is an outdoor-lover’s dream. Great Smoky Mountain National Park
  5. Brittany. Paris isn’t France – visit Brittany, a northwestern region of France that is steeped in Celtic culture and history. There are rugged old castles to be seen, a pink granite-studded coast to be walked along, and many other things to see and do. Try some locally-distilled whiskey or a kir Breton (the regional drink), and sample some of the finest cuisine France has to offer.
  6. Patara. A gorgeous sandy beach in Turkey, Patara is twelve miles of completely unspoiled beauty. You’ll see giant turtles and ancient sites – it’s a truly wonderful undiscovered little slice of utopia. Most guidebooks will list Olu Deniz as the beach to visit in Turkey, but do yourself a favor and head to Patara instead.
  7. Barbados. Granted, Bermuda is the more popular choice – but it’s not the better one. Barbados is a reggae and rum-soaked paradise, with non-touristy fishing villages in the east, great surfing, and beautiful beaches.

This is a post by Barry Norman, a guest editor for Berlin City Guide, helping you find the best things to do in Berlin.

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Visiting the South Coast NSW
Thursday, October 27th, 2011 /

Take the Pacific Highway south from Sydney and when you reach the Illawarra district, you have begun your exploration of South Coast NSW. There seems to be a magical border crossing there. The climate becomes a little cooler and the scenery a little greener. There are longer stretches of road between towns and each of the areas you visit has its own unique atmosphere. Many south coast attractions are on the coast, but others, sometimes overlooked by travellers on the Pacific Highway are inland gems you just don’t want to miss.

Kiama Lighthouse

Kiama is likely to be your first stop on the South Coast. This delightful seaside town is the perfect place to call your base of operations. Not only does Kiama have many wonderful attractions in its own right, its central location means that you can easily reach many other popular destinations without spending half your day driving.

From Kiama, a short drive inland will take you to Berry. Berry is a rural village steeped in heritage and charm. It will enchant you even before you arrive in the city centre as you pass through the rolling hills of the surrounding dairy lands. Don’t expect a sprawling metropolis in Berry. The total population of the city is around 2000, but the town centre is accustomed to catering to the needs of visitors and you’ll love all the restored buildings and wonderful shops.

A little further inland and you come to Kangaroo Valley. Like Berry, it is a small town, but it has a unique character all its own. Many people say Kangaroo Valley is one of the most beautiful valleys in the world. As you cross the historic Hampden Bridge, you will likely agree and when you look down on Kangaroo Valley from a distance, your thoughts will echo the words of explorer George Evans, who described the valley as something "no painter could beautify" any further.

Just twenty minutes drive back towards the coast and you arrive in Nowra, the regional centre of the south coast and its largest town. Situated on the Shoalhaven River, Nowra has an abundance of natural attractions. For a fascinating look at Nowra through an artist’s eyes, visit Bundanon, the rural property Australia’s great artist, Arthur Boyd bequeathed to the state as an artist’s retreat. It is only open to the public on the first Sunday of each month, but is well worth planning a south coast holiday around.

Whenever you happen to be in Nowra, you can take a Shoalhaven River cruise. As you make your way slowly up the river, the scenery will always be changing. One minute you will overlook a long, flat landscape and the next you will be passing by sheer sandstone cliffs.

You can return to your Kiama accommodation or choose Nowra for your South Coast accommodation. For that matter, you might be intrigued by one of the other famous landmarks south of Nowra. Mollymook and Bateman’s Bay are just a couple of the coastal towns that will enchant you before the south coast turns into the Sapphire Coast and you continue on the Pacific Hwy south as far as you like. Be careful, though: you may become so enchanted by the south coast you will decide never to leave.

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