5 Things to See and Do in Malta

February 8th, 2012

The Mediterranean island of Malta features highly on many of our bucket lists; the appeal of the azure sea and year round sunshine is hard to abate. Aside from fantastic outdoor activities and wonderful beaches, there is also an abundance of history to be found on the island. To help you choose how to spend your time in Malta, in no particular order, here’s our pick of 6 things to see and do.

Walk Along Dingli Cliffs

The Dingli Cliffs are an impressive sight, especially from the water on a boat cruise. One of the best ways to experience them however is a walk along the top of the cliffs; enjoy the view of the village of Dingli on the left hand side and views over the uninhabited island of Filfla. Come here in the evening for the charming atmosphere and stunning sunsets.

Fort Rinella

Dating back to 1878, Fort Rinella is one of the top historical sites in Malta. Regarded as the largest Victorian Fort in the world and also home to the largest cannon in the world, the fort is quite famous. With period dressed volunteers on hand to answer all of your questions, a visit here will take you back in history, more so if you join one of the guided tours. The tour will begin with the firing of the cannon (which you can do too if you want!) plus a live demonstration of how the fort would have been defended during an attack. With plenty more displays and hands on activities in this interesting and informative environment, everyone will enjoy this activity.

The Three Cities

Across the Grand Harbour from Valletta you will find Cottonera where the Three Cities; Vittoriosa, Senglea and Cospicua, lay. Here you can gain an intriguing insight into the island and its history and each has a unique charm and character that you will struggle to find elsewhere in Malta. There is plenty to see and do during your visit; why not first stop by at Bishop’s Palace built in 1542 and then visit the Maritime Museum. The Safe Haven Gardens are nice to see as well.

Visit Mdina

Mdina is the old capital of Malta and a visit should feature within your ‘To Do’ list. The medieval walled town sits atop a hill in the centre of the island and houses a population of just 300 residents within the walls. It is however attached to the village of Rabat which has a population of 11,000. Regardless of the number of residents, a visit here is a must. Come to see the fantastic buildings from St Paul’s Cathedral to Vilhenna Palace, not forgetting the Mdina Dungeons and the Benedictine Monastery.

Visit the Island of Gozo

No visit to Malta is complete without hopping aboard a ferry and visiting the neighbouring island of Gozo. Untouched and unique, Gozo is a little slice of heaven and is varied enough for a day trip or a longer stay. There is a selection of picturesque towns and villages dotted across the island each offering something a little different. You won’t tire of things to do on the island with activities ranging from diving and snorkelling in the surrounding waters to shopping or cycling. Be sure to find the Azure Window whilst you’re here; the natural arch makes for a wonderful view and the area is one of the most popular diving spots.

These are just a selection of the wealth of things to see and do in Malta. Visit the island in 2012 and discover your own list of must see and dos. If you have already been, what would feature in your top 5?

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Flight Disruption Due to UK Snow

February 6th, 2012

Following the cancellation of flights over the weekend at many UK airports, most are now fully operational from Monday 6th February.

London Heathrow Airport has warned that there will still be cancellations and delays over the next few days. Heathrow has not reduced the flight schedule for Monday 6th February.

Flights from London Luton, London Stansted, London City, Birmingham, Robin Hood, Manchester and London Gatwick Airport may experience delays on Monday 6th February.

It is advisable that you check the status of your flight before departing for the airport. If you need to amend your car hire booking as a result of this, please contact us.

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Spotlight on the Channel Islands

February 6th, 2012

With longer days and chilly temperatures the norm at present, many of us are beginning to book our long awaited summer holidays. With so much choice however, it can be difficult to choose and then there’s the matter of deciding whether to travel abroad or enjoy a staycation? Well, the answer you’ve been searching for could be right under your nose!

Have you considered the Channel Islands? A short distance from the UK and speckled with a French twist plus a nice dose of sunshine, you might find that these wonderful little islands offer the perfect holiday blend for you. All that you really have to decide is whether to visit Jersey or Guernsey so we have shone the spotlight on both…

Jersey

Officially known as the Balliwick of Jersey, it is the largest of the Channel Islands. The capital of the island, Saint Hellier, is found on the southern shores and boasts a bustling marina and a great atmosphere. The magnificent Elizabeth Castle will allow you to step back in history; the award winning maritime museum is definitely worth a visit whilst the range of interesting shops and boutiques will easily keep you entertained.

When it comes to food and drink, there are plenty of restaurants to choose from here so you’ll be somewhat spoilt for choice; enjoy a traditionally British fish and chip dinner or step it up a notch and sample some delicious French cuisine. From Michelin starred dining to seafood feasts, there’s something to whet your appetite. With evening entertainment in mind, there are plenty of bars and music venues to visit.

The weather also adds significantly to the appeal of this quaint Channel Island; although similar to the south of the UK, the temperatures are generally a few degrees warmer and over all, Jersey enjoys a mild climate with the most annual sunshine in the whole of the British Isles.

There is plenty to see and do and the island has over 350 miles of paved roads to help you explore with Jersey car hire. Travel around and discover crowd free sandy beaches and the likes of tiny, picturesque St John’s village and St Mary’s village. With fantastic scenery on offer, the island is perfect for walking, hiking and bike riding so if you like to keep active on holiday you won’t go wrong here. When it comes to attractions there is a wealth of museums, galleries and historical buildings to choose from as well as family friendly places to visit.

Despite its compact size, Jersey combines something to suit everyone, making it a great holiday spot within spitting distance from home. Set about exploring it!

Guernsey

Found off the coast of Normandy, the island of Guernsey is slightly smaller than Jersey. With a bustling harbour and a strong architectural display, the island’s capital, St Peter’s Port is a welcome introduction to Guernsey. The harbour is frequented with ferries and is lively a hub of activity while the restaurants, shops and boutiques vie for your attention in the background.

Just 6 miles long and 3 miles wide, Guernsey is pretty and petite with lovely landscapes and a wonderful coastline. It doesn’t compromise on things to do either; explore Castle Cornet, Hauteville House and the German Occupation Museum for an interesting start. Embark on a walking tour and discover the Fort Grey Shipwreck Museum and the Underground Hospital. For other active adventures, sea kayaking tours off the coast prove very popular. For a more relaxing way to enjoy the water in the summer months, enjoy a swim or give surfing a go; there are around 27 beaches to choose from ranging from rocky coves to sandy inlets.

Seafood features prominently on menus across Guernsey but there is also a delicious mix of other international cuisine to choose from. Similarly to Jersey, you can find all manner of food on offer from fine dining right through to fish and chips with a cider, sitting on the wall watching the sunset over the harbour. When it comes to lunchtime, picnics are perfect; pack some French bread, pate and cheese plus some local tomatoes and wine and have a delicious lunch with great views from the cliffs. What could be better? An indulgent Guernsey cream tea should also be sampled during a visit here; enjoy a cream tea basket on the beach or head to one of the cafes to sample in style!

This special island will leave a lasting impression so why not settle on Guernsey for your 2012 summer holiday.

Have you ever been to Jersey or Guernsey or plan to go? Share your thoughts!

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A Taster Itinerary for a Fly-Drive Holiday in USA: Las Vegas and the Canyon Loop

February 3rd, 2012

The city of lights is awesome, there’s no denying it but there’s a lot more to Nevada than just the fabulous Las Vegas and its many casinos. This fly drive encompasses the very best of both worlds and allows you to get out into the Nevada desert and into Utah. Embrace the opportunity to see some of Mother Nature’s most impressive creations first hand, and at your own pace.

2 Nights – Las Vegas

Two nights in this crazy cosmopolitan city will be gone in a flash of lights, sounds and gambling! You’ll have time to fully explore the Strip and its casinos, enjoy delicious food, visit Caesars Palace and check out the fake famous landmarks of cities around the world. On your third day it’s time to leave the lights and collect your Las Vegas car hire, ready for your expedition into the desert.

1 Night – Bryce Canyon

The first leg of the journey will have you headed for Bryce Canyon, 250 miles away. The journey will be relatively slow going and will take over 4 hours with no stops, but the beauty of a fly drive is the freedom to stop as and when you wish to soak up the brilliant scenery. A worthy spot to stop is Zion National Park. Head for the visitor centre and choose the most appealing route, then go for a walk around to see Weeping Rock, Emerald Pools, Angels Landing, or The Narrows. Keep your eyes peeled for sighting of a great range of mammals from skunks right through to ring tailed cats. Continue on your journey until you arrive at the final destination; Bryce Canyon. Filled with towering spires, fins, arches and mazes, Bryce Canyon is inspiring and the range of colours among the rocks are fantastic.

1 Night – Moab

From Bryce Canyon, the next stop will be Moab. Follow the route into Kodachrome Basin State Park and continue past the fascinating Anasazi Indian Village. It’s worthwhile stopping here for a quick visit to the museum. The site is believed to have been occupied since 1050 AD and although still largely unexcavated, there are many artefacts on display in the museum. The journey will then take you through Capitol Reef National Park where you can see the beautiful Hickman Bridge, before arriving in the Moab Valley for your one night stay. There are plenty of other activities to enjoy in Moab from horseback riding to white water rapids rafting trips! It’s worth mentioning that the Arches National Park is right on your doorstep and there are several short ten minute walks that take you right up several of the arches allowing you to enjoy fabulous views. A visit here will see you appreciate the power of erosion.

1 Night – Mesa Verde

Mesa Verde is the location for your fifth night and it is located approximately 140 miles away although it’s great to split the journey up with a stop at Canyonlands National Park en route! The canyons here took over 300 million years to form and are nothing short of wonderful to explore. When you reach Mesa Verde, you will have the opportunity to see some of the world’s best preserved, and certainly impressive, Native American cliff dwellings. Neither will disappoint!

1 Night – Grand Canyon

At this stage of the trip you are approaching the big finale; the Grand Canyon. At a staggering 1 mile deep, the Grand Canyon attracts millions of visits every year who travel to awe this natural beauty. The South Rim is easier to access and a much more popular choice for viewing the canyon but if you go at the right time of the year, the North Rim is also an option. The Park Rangers offer free guided tours and with their knowledge, this is a great way to experience the park. Book a smooth water raft trip at Glen Canyon Dam on the Colorado River and hike the fantastic terrain to really experience the Grand Canyon.

1 Night – Las Vegas

Having spent your last night in the Grand Canyon National Park, wake up early to watch the sun rise and snap some fantastic shots over the Canyon. After one last hike, it’s time to travel back to Las Vegas via the huge Hoover Dam for one final night of city fun.

This part of America is wonderful to explore and what better way to do it than with your own itinerary? You could alter the route to suit your taste and maybe even feature Los Angeles or San Diego in your fly drive holiday plan.

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A Taster Itinerary for a Fly-Drive Holiday in Australia – Melbourne to Adelaide & Kangaroo Island

February 1st, 2012

Australia is a diverse and stunning country and there is so much to see and do. To really get an insight into the country, you would have to spend at least a month here. If such a long trip isn’t feasible but you still want to explore some of this fantastic country, a fly drive holiday could be the ideal solution. Travel from Melbourne to Adelaide and take in some fantastic sights along the way.

1 Night – Apollo Bay

Having explored the culture filled city of Melbourne, collect your Melbourne car hire and hit the road. The first stop of the route is the beautiful Apollo Bay, approximately 2.5hours drive away. The route sweeps around Geelong and once you reach Torquay, it becomes the Great Ocean Road. As the title suggests, the road tightly hugs the coast traversing rainforests as well as fantastic beaches and cliffs. Just relax and enjoy the ride. Once you arrive in the picturesque Apollo Bay found at the foothills of the Otways, there is plenty to enjoy. Explore the curious selection of shops, cool off with a swim in the clear waters or hire a kayak and paddle with the seals that live in the bay. Give surfing a go or head off for a hike into the hills to find Australia’s oldest lighthouse. The choices are pretty much endless so take your pick.

1 Night – Port Fairy

The next stop of the itinerary is Port Fairy and the journey there is unarguably one of the most spectacular stretches of the Great Ocean Road. Passing Port Campbell National Park you will enjoy fantastic views of the 12 Apostles as well as London Bridge, The Bay of Island and Loch Arch Gorge. Be sure to stop at some of the many vantage points and beaches en route. When you get hungry, there are plenty of free self-use barbeques sites that you can stop at along the way too; keep your eyes peeled for wild parrots and koalas! Continue past the city of Warrnambool to Port Fairy, one of the oldest Ports in Victoria. There are often festivals and events going on here but if there isn’t don’t worry, as there are many permanent activities to enjoy.

1 Night – Halls Gap

The next leg of the journey will take you away from the coastline heading inland, northbound to Halls Gap where you can explore the Grampians National Park. The Grampians are a haven for hiking, rock climbing and abseiling and having enjoyed an active day discovering all that the park has to offer, Halls Gap is the perfect place to relax and unwind in the evening. Be sure to buy an ice cream from Coolas Ice Cream parlour!

1 Night – Coonawarra

Departing Halls Gap, the next stop will be Coonawarra just over 3 hour’s drive away. The route will take you north-west before curving back down towards the coastline. The region surrounding Coonawarra boasts rich red soil which produces some of the best wines in the world. Perfect then, I hear you say, for some winery tours. There is no shortage of vineyards to choose from so take a detour and get the most from this famous area.

1 Night – Naracoorte

Having treated your taste buds to some exceptional wine tasting, Narracorte is the next destination of the route. This is the shortest journey of the fly drive so far and it’s a good thing too as there is much to be seen and enjoyed upon arrival. Soak up some South Australian culture at the Art Gallery and step back in history at the fascinating Naracoorte Caves National Park where you will be able to see the rich deposits of fossilised mammals. This is only natural World Heritage Site in South Australia and it’s highly regarded. It’s a very worthwhile experience.

2 Nights – Kangaroo Island

Get up bright and early the following morning and make your way to Cape Jervis; the gateway to Kangaroo Island. You will then have two nights to explore this large and fascinating island home to much Australian wildlife and captivating natural beauty. Spend time at the Seal Bay Conservation Park, Flinders Chase National Park and go caving amongst much more. You may find you don’t want to leave. Once you tear yourself away however, the last leg of the journey will be just over an hour to Adelaide where you can return your hire car and spend a few days exploring the city before it’s time to go home.

Australia is a wonderful country and best explored by car to really get a feel for it, no matter which part of the country you choose to discover.

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Driving Tour of the Andalucian Region of Spain

January 31st, 2012

If you are exploring your first driving tour, then the Andalucian region of southern Spain is a great option. This trip has become well known for many reasons, but mostly because it can be a laid back route that has much to offer. Here, we will look at some of the highlights in more detail.

Getting to Andalucia

To get to the start of the driving tour you should fly into Malaga Airport. The trip starts from Malaga, which is right on the southern coast. The great thing about getting to the area is that you will find an abundance of low cost flights to Spain with the many budget carriers that operate holiday flights. If you cannot find something suitable at Malaga Airport, then you can also look for flights to Seville.

Andalucia Driving Route

This route has many variations but the main one runs from Malaga, Ronda, Seville, Carmona, Cordoba, Jaen, Granada, through the Sierra Nevada mountain range and back into Malaga. This is why it is a good idea to get flights into Malaga and hire a car from this airport.

Driving Distances and Times

If you choose to use the conventional route, then here are the driving distances and a rough estimate of the amount of time it should take you to get from one city to another.

• Malaga – Ronda – this journey will take roughly one hour and forty minutes at just under 65 miles. To get to Ronda use the A357 and A367.

• Ronda – Seville – this journey takes roughly two hours at just under 80 miles. This journey can be done on the A-375.

• Seville – Carmona – this is a short journey at just under 20 miles, which will take no longer than half an hour.

• Carmona – Cordoba – this is another short journey at 54 miles, which will take you just over an hour.

• Cordoba – Jaen – this journey will see you hit the north-most section at Andujar. At just over 72 miles and taking less than one hour and three quarters this journey uses the A4 and A311.

• Jaen – Granada – this southern journey uses the A44 for 59 miles. This should take no more than one hour and ten minutes.

• Granada – Sierra Nevada – this is a short journey of just 12 miles taking no more than 10 minutes to get to the foot of the Sierra Nevada Mountains.

• Sierra Nevada – Malaga – this journey is roughly 62 miles and should not take any longer than one hour and a half.

Accommodation in Andalucia

If you choose to do a five day driving trip through the Andalucian Region of Spain, you should stay in the following places; Malaga for one night either at the start or end of your trip, Ronda, Seville, Granada and the Sierra Nevada. If you intend to do this journey for a week, add Jaen and Cordoba as the two other destinations.

If you are driving around on a decent budget, here are some great three star hotels (or better) that you can stay in for one night:

• Malaga – Hotel Silken Puerta Malaga is a four-star hotel with some great reviews and year round deals. A double room for one night should not cost any more than £55.

• Ronda – the Hotel Parador de Ronda is a four-star hotel with some great ratings. A double room will set you back no more than £75 per night.

• Seville – the Hotel Sevilla Center should set you back no more than £50 a night for a double. This modern four-star hotel is less than a mile from the city centre.

• Granada – the Hotel Macia Real de la Alhambra is a fantastic four-star destination. At less than £50 per double per night this hotel is a bargain.

• Sierra Nevada – as expected, rooms up in the Sierra Nevada are more expensive. At £90 per double per night the Hotel La Almunia Del Valle is a great three star option.

Hopefully, this guide has given you some great ideas about how to take on your driving tour of the Andalucian Region. Remember, the best thing about a tour is you are in control of every move.

About the Author:
Martin Petersen is a travel blogger and writes for Go Travel Spain, a great source of information when planning your holiday to one of the most popular destinations in Europe.

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Top 6 Breath-taking Breaks For 2012

January 30th, 2012

Are you still trying to choose your annual holiday location for 2012? Being bombarded with so many stunning locations can make an already challenging task, nigh on impossible! If you are constrained by a budget or simply want some inspiration, consider our list of the top 6 holiday hotspots:

Croatia

Plitvice Lakes National ParkCited as an up and coming location for a few years now, Croatia has the benefit of a gorgeous climate and breath-taking scenery. Suitable for those seeking a beach break, or those wishing to tour the sights, Croatia should whet everyone’s holiday appetite. Zadar is packed full of culture and contains a number of Romanesque features. Sun worshippers will easily find the perfect spot along the Dalamatia Coast. The vast array of flora and fauna, coupled with the truly spectacular views also make the Plitvice Lakes a must see.

Cyprus

Albeit Cyprus is becoming incredibly popular, especially with families, this wondrous island should also have wider appeal. Coral Bay, which lies just outside of Paphos is filled with long stretches of golden sand, great for those who love water sports and considerably quieter that its close neighbour. Travel to Polis and Latchi which both border the Akamas National Park. Packed full of hiking opportunities, connect with the great outdoors here.

Menorca

Smaller and more tranquil than its fellow Balearic Islands of Mallorca and Ibiza, this petite gem offers a fantastic alternative to the usual break in Spain. Mahon is home to some wondrous gothic architecture and fabulous local cuisine. Santo Tomas is at the foot of Mount Toro and is packed with small town charm; make sure that you explore this picture-perfect location.

Malta

The Island of GozoPrimarily known for its historical prominence, many people visit here for the museums and monuments. The nearby island of Gozo is full of rocky coves, and endless sandy beaches, ideal for swimming, snorkelling or just plain relaxing. Back on the island of Malta, Valletta offers a mixture of shopping and never-ending expanses of coastline.

Madeira

The winning combination of a striking mountainous backdrop, coupled with a lush panorama already puts Madeira at the top of many peoples wish list. Ribeiro Frio, which is surrounded by the Ribeiro Frio Natural Park is littered with plentiful walking and hiking opportunities. The compact nature of the island makes it easy to navigate your way to a beach, or to the bustling town of Funchal.

Turkey

Growing in popularity due to the endless beaches and sunny climate coupled with Asian and European influences, Turkey should be on your travel to do list. Dalyan, whilst being home to many sea turtles, ancient tombs, thermal springs and mud baths also has a plethora of other sights to add to its appeal. The ever-popular Turtle Beach is nearby and offers fresh water one side and sea water on the other, certainly a little different. Izmir, home to Ephesus, one of the best preserved ancient cities in Turkey, exists alongside a vast array of city based attractions such as The Agora and more.

We hope that this list has given you some great holiday ideas, half the battle when you are set on getting away to sunnier climbs. All that remains now is to hunt down the best deal, why not read our other blog for some top tips to help you secure the best price for your break.

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A Taster Itinerary for a Fly-Drive Holiday in Italy – Milan to Verona & the 3 Lakes

January 30th, 2012

If you like to take control of the reins on holiday and explore the area you are visiting, a fly drive holiday could be just what you need. Allowing you to get the most from your time away, fly drive holidays are becoming increasingly popular. On the road you have the freedom to stop where and when you like for a break, to admire that fantastic view and get off the beaten track a little. Check out this taster itinerary for a fly drive across northern Italy taking in two popular cities and the natural beauty of the three lakes in between.

1 Night – Milan

Having landed at Milan Airport, track down your hotel and drop off your things for your 1 night stop in Milan. Once you’ve checked in, your first stop should be at the church of Santa Maria della Grazie to view the infamous and breath-taking work of art, “the Last Supper” by Leonardo da Vinci. The remainder of the day could be spent exploring Centro Milan on foot plus a visit to Castello Sforzesco which contains 12 miniature museums and of course the Castle itself. It’s really up to you as to how you spend your time however; you may prefer to utilise the fantastic shopping opportunities or enjoy a canal cruise instead.

2 Nights – Lake Maggiore

Once you’ve collected your Milan car hire, you will be ready to hit the open road first thing on day two, heading for the beautiful Lake Maggiore. Here you can spend two blissful nights free from the crowds and surrounded by exquisite natural beauty. Each of the Italian Lakes has a micro climate however Maggiore is the coolest of the three meaning it is the best place for hiking. Lose yourself in the Alpine backdrop and relax with a ferry boat ride on the Lake itself. Isola Bella, Isola Madre and Isola Pescatori, some of the islands dotted within the Lake, are each attractive and interesting to explore.

2 Nights – Lake Como

Depart Lake Maggiore and follow the route around the Northern shores, which cross over into Switzerland, to the next stop of the itinerary; Lake Como. The deepest in Europe and shadowed by the Alps, Lake Como certainly does not disappoint. Activities to be enjoyed on Lake Como range from the relaxing to the very active. Try your hand at golf or hire a bicycle and explore the surrounding areas of the lake. You can also enjoy a Gondola Ride from the Funiculare on the Western shore of the lake and enjoy the fantastic views. Whichever activities you choose to partake in, ensure you keep your eyes peeled for the host of celebrities who live along the shores of Lake Como.

2 Nights – Lake Garda

The next stop on the itinerary is the most popular of the three Lakes; Garda. Located just over two hours away, the drive there can be slow paced and leisurely, allowing you to take in the sights along the way. Spend your days here exploring the towns and villages dotted around the Lake and be sure to get involved in the boundless array of activities. Have a go at rock climbing, wind surfing, sailing and swimming not to mention a ride in the cable car which takes you 1,800m above sea level. There are many different footpaths up here allowing you to explore the surroundings.

1 Night – Verona

The last leg of the journey will take you just one hour before the city of Verona comes into view. Driving past the southern shore of the Lake will be your last opportunity to drink in the fantastic views and make the most of the picture-perfect photo opportunities, so take it slow and embrace it. Once you arrive in Verona there is plenty to see and do; see the Cathedral of Verona, Juliet’s balcony and of course the Verona Arena amongst plenty more. Be sure to indulge and enjoy a fantastic Italian breakfast on your last morning before it’s time to return your car and fly home.

This is just a taste of the type of fly drive holiday you could have in Italy. The beauty and appeal of fly drives is that you can tailor the itinerary so it suits you perfectly!

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The Best of Houston, Texas

January 27th, 2012


With over 2 million people living here making it the largest city in Texas, Houston is very diverse and this is clearly reflected in the myriad of interesting things to see and do. There’s so much to do in fact that if you are coming to Houston for your holiday, you might find that you quickly run out of time. Here’s our top pick of attractions, restaurants, shopping and nightlife to ensure you get the best from your holiday in Houston.

Attractions

The Johnson Space Centre is the best of the rest and a truly unique attraction. This mammoth centre spans 1,620 acres and is the home of the NASA astronaut corps. Visitors to the centre can touch real moon rocks, see behind the scenes on the NASA Tram Tour, experience a zero gravity environment in the Living in Space exhibit and even experience a virtual rocket launch in the theatre plus much more. Everyone has a secret fascination with space and astronauts and what better way to uncover it than with a visit to the space centre; it will be sure to make your visit memorable.

Get an insight into the history of Texas with a visit to the George Ranch Historical Park. This 480 acre living-history park offers hands on experiences and costumed historical interpreters. Book up for an authentic meal to really complete the experience!

When it comes to museums, Houston doesn’t disappoint with two of the best including the Houston Museum of Natural Science and the John P McGoven Museum of Health & Medical Science. Both offer fascinating, fun and education exhibits and displays with hands on attractions too. The Science Museum even has an in-house IMAX theatre.

Restaurants and Nightlife

Bayou Place is widely regarded as the best place for both eateries and evening entertainment. Contained within one large complex in the heart of downtown’s Theatre District, Bayou Place offers a huge selection of restaurants such as the excellent Sambra Grille and the obligatory Hard Rock Café, not to mention the Blue Fish which is rated as one of the best sushi bars. Verizon Wireless Theatre has music of all styles covered whereas Sundance Cinemas delivers the very best in film.

Kemah Boardwalk is a similar type of establishment located on the waterfront, however it combines restaurants with a larger array of entertainment including fairground rides. Kemah Boardwalk is therefore a great choice for families.

Shopping

When it comes to retail therapy, the best regarded areas include the Galleria, Houston Heights and Westheimer and Dunlavy. Westheimer offers a range of big name brands whereas Galleria and Houston Heights offer a more sophisticated and upmarket approach.

Old Town Spring shopping village offers a different retail experience and boasts a huge selection of 1900’s Victorian style shops combined with restaurants, museums and art galleries. It certainly makes for an alternative approach to shopping but no less enjoyable by any means.

The Montrose Neighbourhood one the other hand is a vintage shoppers dream with its antique mall and live music venues. The tree lined boulevards make this area particularly pedestrian friendly and is highly enjoyed by tourists and locals alike.

What do you think are the best things to see and do in Houston? Share your thoughts!

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Get Off the Beaten Track in Los Angeles

January 26th, 2012

One of the most travelled to cities in the world and the home of both A-list celebrities and wannabe actors and actresses, Los Angeles holds certain connotations. With the likes of the Walk of Fame, Venice Beach and window shopping on Rodeo Drive featuring highly on most tourist’s itineraries, you might think you have LA all figured out. There is a surprising side to LA however so read on and get taken off the beaten tourist track in Los Angeles…

The Hollywood sign is an iconic symbol of LA so it seems odd to begin this post with mention of it; you’d think it would be swamped with visitors and hardly regarded as off the beaten track. The thing is though, most people only ever get a snapshot of themselves in front of the sign; very few ever actually reach it. Don’t believe us? Don your climbing gear, get started on the strenuous hike up the hill and you’ll see why few make it! If you have an active side to you, this climb is highly recommended.The panoramic views over the sprawling urban patchwork beneath you are second to none and the memories will be so much better than any photo with the sign in the background.

A huge appeal of Los Angeles is of course its connections with the film and television industry. Most never venture beyond Universal Studios however. Why not make your visit a bit more individual and head to Burbank instead? Here you will find five major production studios including the likes of NBC Television, Sony and Warner Brothers.Come to one of these and you’ll have a much higher chance of seeing some live filming than if you follow the masses and stick to Universal. In terms of watching movies, a unique experience would consist of a visit to the Silent Movie Theatre. There aren’t many around so relish the opportunity whilst you can.

Steer clear of the multitude of fancy shopping malls and instead take a trip to the original Los Angeles Farmers Market. Often overlooked by visitors, the idea of a farmers market in this fast paced city seems almost out of place but it will make for an individual twist to your visit. Head to the Miracle Mile area at the intersection of 3rd Street and Fairfax and you will find the market brimming with the colours of fresh fruit and veg, meat, nuts and sweet and gifts. There are also some great little restaurants to be found.

Spend some time visiting the selection of quirky museums around the city too. Rather than going straight to the Getty Museum or the Hollywood History Museum why not spend a few hours perusing some of the different options. For starters, try the Museum of Jurassic Technology in Venice Beach, regarded as the most unusual of the lot and providing a hands-on experience of life in the Jurassic. The Museum of Tolerance on the other hand is a very different type of museum focusing on the problems in society with regards to racism around the world. Another completely different option to consider is a walking tour of the many fantastic murals painted around the city. There are more than 1,000 so you won’t get to see them all but it’s certainly worth some of your time.

Like every big city, Los Angeles is known for particular things however there is a lot more to be discovered. Get off the beaten tourist track, open your eyes during your visit and you might just enjoy a whole different side to Los Angeles.

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