With its lavish architecture, nightlife and peerless attractions, the boredom factor might seem impossible but how many times can you scale the Sagrada Família without wondering what lies beyond the city’s borders? Courtesy of a great public transport network and a plethora of hire car companies to choose from, there are numerous escape routes to a series of wonderful destinations across Catalonia to explore on Barcelona holidays.

Situated in the north-westerly reaches of Spain, the Catalan region is one of the most attractive in the Iberian Peninsula. With its pine forested mountains, national parks, beaches and romantic villages, there is a remarkable diversity to the region and provides a distinctive regional perspective on an otherwise cosmopolitan world city.

Vibrant Sitges

One of the most attractive beaches in the region is Sitges, which is less than 45 minutes by train from Barcelona city centre. With its artistic heritage, party atmosphere and open, relaxed scene, Sitges is certainly not a conservative Spanish town. The town is home a flamboyant street carnival, international film festival and in keeping with its gay friendly atmosphere, there is an annual Pride march, where visitors can be forgiven for thinking they’ve arrived in a Catalan clone of Brighton. With the beautiful turquoise waters of the Mediterranean Sea providing the town with a lush cocktail setting, visitors will be delighted discovering the yet unknown pleasures of Sitges.

Medieval surroundings

In contrast to the open hedonism of Sitges is a daytrip to Caldes de Montbui, which is situated in the upper valley of the Caldes River. An easy thirty kilometre trip from Barcelona, the historic Spa town is famous for hot thermal springs and deeply relaxing atmosphere. Visitors going to Barcelona in 2012 will definitely want to return home with fresh skin and a day trip to Caldes de Montbui will make everyone appear ten years younger. At least while the effects last.  The hot springs of the town have been exploited since Roman times, and the remnants of the Roman baths and other Roman buildings can still be seen on a good day. The town retains most of its medieval fortifications including the local prison (Torre de la Presó), which are remarkably well preserved. Definitely a day trip for heritage lovers, the town’s historical appeal focuses upon the hermitage of la Mare de Déu del Remei, which dates all the way back to the sixteenth century.

Another historic offering in Catalonia is the medieval town Girona, which is a 90 minute train journey from Barcelona. Girona is widely considered to be one of the beautiful towns in Catalonia. Dominated by medieval buildings and reminiscences of the Roman, Arab and Jewish cultures, the city is a joy to behold on a summer’s day. Due to its magnificent location, day trippers from Barcelona will be able to enjoy trekking excursions in the nearby Prynees Mountains or relax on the beach in the Costa Brava. Famous for its regional dishes and flair for gastronomy, no one goes thirsty for culture, food or activities when they depart Barcelona for a wander around Girona.

The birthplace of Salvador Dali

Arguably the most popular daytrip from Barcelona is a train journey to Figueres, which is the birthplace of surrealist artist Salvador Dali. Forming part of a pilgrimage, visitors travel in expectation of entering the Dalí Theatre-Museum, which is the largest surrealistic object in the world. The modern museum occupies the former Municipal Theatre, a 19th century construction that was destroyed at the end of the Spanish Civil War. On the ashes of its ruins, Dalí decided to create his memoir. The museum contains the broadest range of works spanning the artistic career of Salvador Dalí (1904-1989), from his earliest artistic experiences and his surrealist creations down to the works of the last years of his life. Questions will be asked if you arrive in Barcelona and don’t make a daytrip to Figueres because this is one of the greatest and most celebrated art museums in the world.

The home of Cava

Finally one of the most understated delights of short breaks to Barcelona is the opportunity to explore the region’s beautiful vineyards. The Spanish wine region of Penedès is a short train or car journey south of Barcelona and offers visitors the chance to enjoy some fascinating wine tours.  The area is renowned as home to Cava, Spanish champagne, but also produces outstanding white wines and good quality reds. The Penedes region is an ideal destination for full day wine excursions to the region with visits to the vineyards of wine and cava producers. With so much gorgeous wine and cava to sample, visitors are advised to take public transport to the district. A daytrip to Penedès most definitely forms part of the quintessential Barcelona experience. The city is truly blessed to be surrounded by vineyards, art pilgrimages, mountains and historic medieval towns that haven’t changed for centuries. Catalonia is thus one of the most beautiful regions in Western Europe and represents a wonderful place to explore when taking an extended break in the culture capital of Barcelona.

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About the Author:   D. Agnew is a member of the easyJet holidays travel writers team.
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Blame it on hyperbolic forecasts of economic doom and gloom, the implosion of the media and a sense of ennui when it comes to conventional nights out, but it seems like London is looking to the past for inspiration with a new (or maybe old) wave of retro-themed events hitting the capital. The 1930s and 1940s might seem like an unlikely era to emulate when it comes to partying, but the combination of swing music, kitsch Union Jack-bedecked decor and the chance to dress up in polka dots, stockings and pin-up icon make-up provide a hip escape from the monotony of daily life and drum and bass music! From cabaret bars to big band dances and interactive cinema, here’s a brief introduction to the retro revival evoking the romantic spirit of Blitz-era London.

The Blitz Party

Smudge on some red lipstick, paint on your stocking seams and grab a man in uniform for the Blitz Party, a 1940s-themed knees-up that kicks off at set dates in the suitably atmospheric Arches in Shoreditch. Jazz bands, cabaret acts and eye-poppingly co-ordinated swing dancers set the pace amid World War II posters, sandbags and provisions tins, with Union Jacks and bunting galore streaming above the dance floor. After having steadily grown in popularity throughout 2011, the recent New Year’s Eve event was packed out with hipsters putting their best foot forward in tea dresses, victory rolls and military threads, proving that the coolest way to spend a Saturday night is now more likely to involve Glenn Miller tracks and jitterbugging than dubstep and class A’s. Other swell touches included of-the-moment drinks like the Spitfire, an outdoors hog roast and newsreel and movie montages flickering across the brick walls – our tip is to grab a gin and a friend and emulate the semi-professionals waltzing across the floor. You’ll most likely look like an un-coordinated pair of toddlers spinning about, but letting go and getting in the mood (as Mr. Miller himself would have it) is what the Blitz Party is all about!

The next Blitz Party event takes place on Saturday 28th January, with tickets priced at £20 each.

Secret Cinema

What started out as a niche idea has now grown into a huge production spanning almost two months, with a massive cast and thousands turning up to participate in interactive screenings of movie classics. The unpredictable nature of Secret Cinema means that you could well end up in the future rather than the past, but the last few efforts from the SC team have centered around black and white cult favorites like The Red Shoes and The Battle of Algiers. Keeping the main event shrouded in secrecy until the reels start rolling, ticket-holders instead receive drips of information through mystic missives with only a few 0bscure clues to work from. Perhaps one of the most impressive elements of Secret Cinema is the covert collaboration between those who have been to keep it a surprise, and I’m certainly not going to be the one to lift the veil – suffice to say that the current production involved getting dressed up in 1940s gear, exploring an incredible 5 floor building with meticulous sets and actors merging in with the nervous crowds, and delving into a hidden world of murder, double-bluffing and smuggling. After getting chatted up by a Soviet officer, trading bottles with waitresses and singing happy birthday to a bemused lecture room within the first 15 minutes, I can safely say it’s one of the more unusual and memorable ways I’ve spent a Saturday night in recent months. One thing to remember is to throw yourself into the confusion, invent an alter ego (or three) and talk to everyone you bump into – spend the night at the bar and you’ve missed the point entirely!

Secret Cinema runs until the end of January 2012. Tickets are £35 each or £25 concessions.

Cellar Door

A sense of the clandestine and risqué permeates the atmosphere at Cellar Door, a tiny cabaret bar hidden near the Aldwych Theatre in the heart of the West End. Situated beneath the bustling pavements of Theatreland, Cellar Door used to be an infamous gentlemens’ public toilet reputedly frequented by Wilde, Gielgud and Orton, and whilst the interior has now been suitably jazzed up with mirrored walls, a stellar cocktail bar and a series of glamorous cabaret singers and burlesque dancers, it retains a theatrical and uninhibited ambience that makes you feel like you’ve stepped from 2010′s London into 1930′s Berlin in the blink of a false eyelash. Vintage dress is not compulsory but it will help you get into the swing of things, as the ‘Fallen Angel’ performers belt out stage and old-school classics whilst pawing unsuspecting customers and pin-up burlesque dancers pep up the evening with a shower of sequins and feathers. Audience participation and singalongs are almost mandatory, so be prepared to come out of your shell! Old fashioned glamour aside, the bar is arguably one of the best in the city – choose from spirits classed as a Von Teese, Page or Monroe on an imaginative cocktail list that makes deciding a tricky process. I recommend the quirky Breakfast Martini (gin, marmalade, Cointreau and lemon juice), sipped from an idosyncratic china teacup and saucer.

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About The Author:  Olivia Squire is a London-based writer who currently writes for TubeHotels.com, a price comparison site for hotels in London, and in particular hotels near tube stations.
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One up-and-coming destination is Puglia – often referred to as the next Tuscany or Italy’s biggest secret. Puglia is situated at Italy’s south-easternmost region (known to many of us as the heel of the boot) and is a great destination for an amorous escape.  To begin with Puglia is only a short flight from the UK so you won’t start off your romantic getaway with jetlag and your partner won’t witness you stepping haggard and bleary eyed off the plan

Beautiful Beaches…
Puglia has all you could wish for on the beach front with a varied coastline incorporating rocky beaches, white cliffs, beaches reached through greenery and forests, small town sandy bay beaches and of course large stretches of Caribbean-esque sandy beaches.  All sit next to the clear blue-turquoise sea and many of the beaches have been awarded Blue Flag status – an internationally recognized guarantee of the quality of the sea water. In the summer months the sea warms up and the gentle climate allows for comfortable swimming in the sea until October.

Fabulous Food…
One of the best parts of any holiday is splashing out and eating exciting new dishes and after all, food is the language of love! And Italy has some of the finest food in the world. Puglia produces around 40% of Italy’s olive oil and a large proportion of its wine. It is largely an agricultural region – often called the garden of Italy – so wherever you go you will find fresh local produce such as artichokes, rocket, tomatoes, fava beans, courgettes, fennel, peppers, beef and lamb.

…And you always need great wine to accompany the food
A little known fact is that Puglia produces more wine than Australia. Principal wine towns in Puglia include Lecce, Martina Franca and Manduria. If you sample enough, there’s a good chance you will find some new favourite wines, as wineries from the north of Italy, and even America, are beginning to see the potential of Puglia and starting to invest heavily.

Wonderful Weather…
Puglia has a wonderful climate, with an average 300 days of sunshine per year. If you are going in the hottest months of the year (May-September) there is minimal humidity. The temperature is fairly constant between the coast and the inland areas, rising to around 30°C (86 F) in July and August and only dropping out of the 20s (high 60s) at the beginning of December.

Quirky (yet luxurious) accommodation
While many people may prefer to stay in an all-inclusive hotel to enjoy room service, villas give a lot more privacy, which is much more romantic.  There’s a great selection of luxury villas in Puglia, where you can enjoy as much privacy as you wish, including your own private pool.  But if you feel things like cooking and washing up will spoil the romance, you can always hire a private cook to come in, do their thing then vanish.

If you are looking for something a little more quirky, how about looking at the range of trulli that are available? Trulli, mysterious stone buildings with conical roofs, are dotted all over the region, making Puglia look like a fairy-tale land peppered with mini castles. No one really knows how trulli came about, everyone has a theory (this is Italy after all), but they are unique to Puglia and so definitely an option to look into if the region has whet your appetite.  While the term trulli refers to a house that’s internal space is covered by a dry stone corbelled or keystone vault, many trulli have been made into luxury houses that can be rented out.

Puglia ticks the key romance boxes; plentiful beaches, great food, superb wine, beautiful weather and luxurious accommodation. On top of this, it is an easy place to stay – the locals are friendly and you can dabble in Italian but will have no problems speaking English. So if you are looking for a romantic retreat which still oozes luxury, Puglia should definitely be on the list.
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About The Author:  Think Puglia is the provider of beautiful and desirable Puglia villas, right in the heel of Italy on the Salento peninsula. All of the company’s hand-picked gems come with the option of having cooks and cleaners, and guests can pick from fabulous beachfront villas, luxury masserie and rustic-chic trulli in the hills. Visit www.thinksicily.co.uk for more information.
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Photo Credit: FlickR – #1 Andrepax, #2 Pizzodisevo, #3 VerityCridland, #4 jujuly25, #5 dcinput

Reykjavik, Iceland

Iceland is one of those countries that (even though there are only a few hours of daylight) comes alive in the winter. I can’t say that I know what Iceland is like in January…because I traveled there in March, but I can tell you that traveling to Reykjavik during the winter months was an experience I will never forget.

Perhaps the most striking thing about Iceland during the winter is the landscape itself. When I traveled there, we took a day and rented a car, and just traveled around the Icelandic countryside, visiting various landmarks and just having our own mini-road trip experience. The landscape was quite stark, but very beautiful – the black volcanic rock against the white snow and ice is made for taking photographs.

If you’re someone looking for an escape in the more traditional sense of pampering and relaxation, the Blue Lagoon was probably made just for you. One of Iceland’s more popular geothermal pools, the water is usually between 95 and 100 degrees F, with eddies of warmer and cooler water. The contrast of the hot water and the cool air is a sensation that makes the outdoor geothermal pool that much more gratifying…and amazing.

I’m not usually a pampering person, but I think we stayed in the lagoon a good 5 hours. Our wrinkles had wrinkles, but it was well worth it.

If you are someone who prefers “party” to “pamper” Reykjavik could be your perfect spot as well – but make sure that you have a Friday and Saturday in your travel plans! Because alcohol is relatively expensive in Iceland, many choose not to imbibe during the week and instead splurge on the weekends. There is even a name for the drink-till-the-sun-rises experience in the city – runtur. Why not try your luck and see if you can keep up with the hardy Icelanders?

Aside from the landscape, the pampering and the parties, the most compelling reason to go to Iceland in the winter is another one of nature’s landscapes – that is, the Northern Lights, the Aurora Borealis. Check the weather forecast before you go, though, I was unfortunately unable to see this show because of a few clouds in the night sky when I went!

That didn’t stop me from fully enjoying my winter experience in Iceland, though, and I suggest that everyone look beyond the expected and find the extraordinary in your winter travels.

Budapest, Hungary

Imagine your favorite fairytale; that is Budapest in winter. Hungary has a people and a culture that are no stranger to harsh winter, but you wouldn’t know that walking around the city in January or February with snow falling softly on medieval buildings or the banks of the Danube.

Winter is typically the off-season for Europe, so if you go in the winter you will enjoy a bit more quiet and serenity – plus you’ll get to take advantage of the city’s famous hot baths or indulge in tea and a pastry at one of their amazing cafes.

Trans Siberian Railway

Want to enjoy the Russian winter landscape without the Russian winter? Then a ride on the Trans-Siberian rail is just your ticket. Russia is another one of those countries that (albeit stereotypically) comes alive in the winter months, with everything covered in a layer of white, from the onion domes of St. Petersburg to the squares of Moscow. Enjoy the landscapes and vistas of Russia in the comfort and warmth of the Trans Siberian Railway.

And for those that want to frolic in St. Petersburg, you’re welcome to do that too! The Trans Siberian Railway is one of those seminal travel experiences, and I wouldn’t be able to pass it up, especially not in the winter.

Park City, Utah

If you want to stay a bit closer to home, but still find your perfect winter-weather getaway, try Park City, Utah. It’s a ski town, but one of the lesser known ones – at least compared to places in Colorado like Vail.

If you’re a movie buff, Park City is probably familiar to you, though for other reasons – Park City is the location of the Sundance Film Festival – this year Sundance takes place at the very end of January. The winter retreat of Hollywood, Park City is a chill skiing location that you (and a few stars of the silver screen) can make a winter getaway.

These are just a few travel locations for the more winter-weather inclined of us – do you have any suggestions?

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About The Author:  Amber Daniels loves to travel, but likes to explore close to home as well – especially around Broadway – most recently she has tried to buy tickets to Spiderman: Turn off the Dark tickets – but hasn’t had the chance to go see it yet. Of all places, New York City is one of her all-time favorite winter locations, nothing beats it.
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Photo Credits: #1 Amber Daniels, #2 Amber Daniels, #3 Flickr-Alex E. Proimos, #4 Flickr-Boccaccio1, #5 Flickr-Wickenden

#1 Banks of the Seine in Paris, France

Taking a stroll between Pont de Sully and Pont d’léna along the river Seine isn’t just a pleasant diversion – it’s a fairy tale trail, a cultural tour and a history lesson all in one. From the sculpted beauty of formerly royal buildings such as the Louvre to the 19^th-century marvels of the Eiffel Tower and the Grand Palais, to walk along the Seine is to discover the story of Paris itself. Other notable contrasts include the gothic masterpiece of Notre Dame Cathedral and the wide boulevards of Haussman’s 19^th-centrury urban redevelopment (which influenced town planning across the world well into the first half of the 20^th century).

The banks of the Seine host a confectionary of architectural delights – if you plan on going to Paris to experience the sight for yourself, save money on your trip and browse our list of cheap Paris hotels

#2 Petra, Jordan

Brought to the wider world’s attention as the setting for the final scenes of Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, Petra is one of the world’s most famous archaeological sites with around visitors every year. What makes it awe-inspiring is the sheer uniqueness and majesty of the place on such a grand scale. Its rock-cut Nabataean temples and tombs fuse with the Hellenic architectural style to create truly jaw-dropping vistas – made all the more exciting today by the knowledge that this was once a thriving trade city at the end of the Negev spice route.

#3 Taj Mahal, Agra, India

Built between 1631 – 1648 by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memorial of his favourite wife, Mumtaz Mahal, the Taj Mahal is one of the world’s most recognised, celebrated and enduring symbols of love. A mausoleum built in dazzling white marble, the Taj Mahal glows pink and red during sunrise and silvery in moonlight, and is the central focus of a complex of adorned buildings within ornamental gardens. It’s seen as the jewel in the crown of Islamic art and attracts over two million visitors a year.

#4 Acropolis, Athens, Greece

Built to command awe as well as inspire it, The Acropolis dominates Athens’ skyline. The site’s most famous building, the Parthenon was built as a temple to ancient Greek goddess Athena and is our best-known symbol of Classical Greece. Hike up to the Acropolis’s summit to wander around it – the temple is damaged, but undergoing restoration, and still incurs a powerful sense of wonder. Other things to see include two old amphitheatres on the southern slopes, and a new museum of the Acropolis located at the foot of the hill.

#5 Machu Picchu, Cusco, Peru

American explorer Henry Bingham rediscovered the lost Incan city of Machu Picchu in 1911, and caused an international sensation that hasn’t died down since. Machu Picchu is now the established ‘finish line’ for thousands of Inca Trail followers every year. Reach the city in the way it was intended with two- to four-day hike from Cusco – getting your first glimpse of the site through its original Sun Gate entrance is far better than pulling up in a coach car park! Once inside, spend the day wandering among the site’s ruined homes and re-constructed temples: it’s impossible not to feel awe-inspired staring out into a mist-laden valley from the Temple of the Sun.

Want to discover more amazing UNESCO sites? Find out how to book hotels with UNESCO views.

Tapas,24
A restaurant that does a mighty fine job of marrying together the traditional and the very modern. The menu is playful, the décor is old-school and the food is heavenly. As you’d expect in Barcelona, the menu veers towards seafood so if cod croquettes and fried prawns are your bag, you’ll be well-served in this open-til-late oasis of off-the-beaten track tapas bar. The McFoie Burger is the restaurants signature dish, featuring a medium-rare beef patty with a little dab of creamy foie on the side for good measure giving this little dish its title.

Manairó
For those who like a bit of showmanship to go with their meal, Manairo is the place to visit. Chef Jordi Herrera has a particularly showy approach to his food, utilizing blow torches, drills and high voltage lamps to create a menu that takes traditional Spanish food to the next level with tasting menus targeting true foodies to try something completely new and innovative in an intimate environment. Manairo now boasts a Michelin star, so as you might expect, it’s not a place you should go to if you’re looking for cheap eats on a trip to Barcelona but it’s well-worth a visit if you’re serious about food. I had the Al Clavo Adiente on my trip there, fillets cooked from inside-out with heated spikes – it was delicious and well worth the trip to Diputacio 424 for a look-see.

Cinc Sentits
A perfect venue for a sensuous Mediterranean lunch. The name of this ornate restaurant translates as “Five Senses” and all of these senses are given a serious work-out thanks to an inventive menu that is paced beautifully with pan-seared lobster, monkfish sprinkled with bacon dust and soft poached egg with tomato jam earning this restaurant a hearty recommendation from renowned food critics Frommers. As far as Iberian delacies go, this eatery based at Aribau 58 in Barcelona is difficult to better.

Das Palillos
Fusion restaurants are nothing new, but when it comes to cross-pollinating Asian delicacies with tapas, you won’t find many better examples than this place based on C/Elisabets. Chef Albert Raurich has created a menu that draws inspiration from Japan, Thailand and Vietnam while maintaining the traditional Spanish produce of prawn, Iberian pork and prawns to create something really special such as Gyoza, dumplings and Japanese burgers. If you’re on a budget for your Barcelona trip, make sure you go there at lunch, it gets quite expensive for the night-time menu.

Bar Celta
Another tapas bar and it’s not even the food that necessarily makes this a must-visit. The atmosphere here is quintessentially Catalonian and is perfect if you’re looking to get a real taste of the city – though probably not if you’re feeling worse for wear. Great local food is on offer, however, which should be enjoyed with a large glass of local wine. Based in one Barcelona’s back streets in Old Town (Carrer de la Merce), the food is reasonably priced and the house special “Polpo” was a particular highlight.

I’m from Australia and Last year I spent my honeymoon in Florence. It is the capital city of Italy, situated in the Tuscan province of Florence, on the banks of River Arno. Florence is especially famed for its historical legacy that dates back to the Medieval Ages and during Renaissance its rich cultural heritage flourished to its best. The museums at Florence exhibit some of the most beautiful paintings and other forms of art and architecture from the Renaissance period. There are also numerous monuments and art galleries in the city to explore. However we did not miss the exotic cuisine of Italy and considered it an added attraction indeed!

The cuisine of Florence is one of the most scrumptious delicacies in the world. There are numerous restaurants which offer all types of cuisines such as Continental, Chinese, Fusion, Caribbean, Latin American and certainly Italian. Restaurants in Florence which offer delicious cuisines are generally expensive however there are some cheap and budget friendly restaurants where lip-smacking food is served at affordable prices.

I will tell you about some of the budget friendly restaurants in and around the city of Florence here.

PUGI restaurant is a great place for a pick me up especially in the evening. It is a restaurant near the Accademia Museum of Art And Sculpture, about half a block to the Piazza San Macro bus stop. It is located right next to a Pasticerria. You can have large and authentic Italian pizzas with exciting toppings here.

The Blue River is another restaurant cum coffee bar near the Uffizi side of the River Arno. It is located between the Uffizi and the Bibliotecha. They serve coffee, a drink, a large salad and a main course meal- all for just 7.5 Euros.

The GROM is a small confectionery on a side street heading from the Duomo to River Arno. The confectionery shop is famous for its delicious Gelato. They also serve several types of coffee, dark chocolate and gateaux.

KOCCO is a famous Italian restaurant set up at the corner of Via Farini and Via de Pilastri opposite the Jewish Synagogue. It has a Buddhist decor and serves excellent pasta, pizzas, spaghetti, ravioli, lasagna etc. It is a great joint to have for lunch and supper.

IL PIZZAIOULO is another budget-friendly restaurant that in Florence located right across the street from Cibreo Diner. They make mouth watering Neapolitan thick crust pizzas and many other Italian dishes.

Trattoria Cibreo is a small restaurant situated just around the corner, half a block away from the Cibreo restaurant on Via de Macci. They serve delicious and appetizing soups and entrees. The chocolate and dark chocolate gateaux and various cheesecake desserts served here are simply outstanding. The place is primarily famous for its soups and desserts though they also serve pizzas.

The Vinaino De Parte Guelfa is another famous budget restaurant. It is situated at the Historical Centre on Via de Lamona. It is famous for its Tuscan sandwiches and Margherita pizzas. They also serve delicious white wine at only 1 Euro.

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About The Author:  This article was written by Melissa Davis on behalf of Cruise About with the best cruise deals you can find online.
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A family sailing holiday is a fantastic way to build confidence in and on the water, and also enjoy a fun and exciting vacation together. 

Instead of just looking at the beautiful water or staying confined to the pool at a resort, a sailing trip will get you out on the water and enable you to see your destination from a fresh new angle. After all there are miles and miles of beautiful coastline in the world to look at so why restrict yourself to the beach?

Kids will love the feel-good factor of sailing which offers great opportunities for socialising with peers and a real sense of achievement. If you need convincing any further then consider the health benefits of sailing. Not only is the sea air charged with healthy ions that accelerate the body’s ability to absorb oxygen, but maneuvering one’s boat is equivalent to doing anaerobic exercises, flexing and toning the muscles and promoting cardiovascular health.

Here is a selection of sailing resorts which are perfect for all the family; guaranteed to put the wind in your sails!

Lakitira, Greece
The Lakitira Beach Resort in Kardamena is a superb RYA recognized sailing resort which ticks all the boxes for sailors of every level. The light winds most mornings are ideal for beginners and conditions build in the afternoon to force three to five – perfect for the more advanced sailors. Free group sailing clinics are spread over six days of the week for beginners through to intermediate level and you and your family can gain official qualifications through one of the ten RYA courses on offer.

San Agostino, Greece
San Agostino Beach Resort boasts usually perfect wind conditions making it a truly premier sailing resort.  There is a wide range of dinghies to use as well as first class instruction and RYA sailing courses for adults and children. Set on a beautiful private beach, San Agostino has a wonderful, warm atmosphere with a superb watersports set-up making it an ideal destination for your family sailing holiday.

San Lucianu, Corsica
Set amongst elegant gardens with a soaring mountain range as a backdrop, San Lucianu Beach Resort is certainly one of the most picturesque places to sail. Sailors love it for the good mix of wind conditions and the gently shelving beach ensures quality sailing for all levels. As part of the childcare programme on offer at San Lucianu, children learn to sail and have fun on the water as part of their activity programme.

Perdepera, Sardinia
Set on a magnificent beach in ever fashionable Sardinia, Perdepera Beach Resort is a laid-back place to sail. Located on the eastern coast of Sardinia just south of the village of Cardedu, the resort is reached via a scenic drive from the airport at Cagliari, taking in mountains and dramatic red cliffs as well as the sea. The beach is well protected by a headland making for perfect sailing conditions for novices in the morning and the more advanced in the afternoon.

Sea Garden, Turkey
Set in an elevated position on the stunning Aegean coast of Turkey, just a short drive from Bodrum is the Sea Garden Hotel. The resort is located beside two bays backed by pine clad mountains – an area of largely untouched natural beauty. The small sheltered bay is perfect for beginner sailors but then opens up into a large bay with consistently good wind conditions suitable for intermediate and advanced sailors.

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About The Author:  Mark Warner offers a range of sailing holidays with Royal Yachting Association (RYA) courses, including free group sailing clinics, at resorts in Greece, Corsica, Sardinia and Turkey. Families can also take advantage of their complimentary childcare facilities for kids from 4 months to 17 years. Visit www.markwarner.co.uk for more information.
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New York
The managers of New York HI love Christmas and New Years, they say it’s the best time of the year to enjoy the city. They put on three festive activities a day for guests from mid-December to early January, including guided tours of the New York illuminations, trips to enjoy the Christmas carols at the Harlem Gospel Church and welcome parties with free cocktails. They’ll also help you on your mission to spend New Year in Times Square or in a nightclub with your fellow travellers.

Prague
Sir Toby’s Hostel invites all guests to cook and eat a great Christmas dinner together for free. Their large kitchen is perfect for communal dining and you’ll get to meet some great people around the Christmas turkey who are sure to have some interesting travel stories to tell. Whoever is so inclined is then encouraged to enjoy Midnight Mass in English at the nearby Anglican Church.

Sydney
Blue Parrot is the best place to spend a social Christmas in Sydney. The inn is run by two sisters who know how to create a warm, family atmosphere. They’ll be giving out little Christmas presents to everyone staying on December 25, and they’ll also be the opportunity to join in the “Secret Santa” by offering a small gift to another traveller. Customers can also enjoy a tradition Christmas dinner menu, which includes turkey, pudding and also a barbecue with grilled kangaroo. At New Year the sisters will bring their guests to watch the Sydney Harbour fireworks from the comfort of a small park known only to the locals after a day of picnic relaxing under the sun of the Australian summer.

Rome
The B & B Smart in Rome has got some exciting things planned for Christmas and New Year including traditional Italian Christmas decorations, champagne and delicious lunches and dinners cooked especially for the occasion. Afterwards you can enjoy the evening fireworks held in the city or, for anyone wishing to attend the Christmas Mass in St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican, it’s within walking distance.

Amsterdam
Cocomama Youth Hostel is offering a delicious hearty dinner on Christmas Eve with games and films to be played afterwards. On New Year’s Eve customers can join the employees on foot to the nearby Museum Square where the concerts and NYE activities takes place.

London
The Generator Hostel celebrates Christmas in true English tradition from 24 December 26. During the day, Christmas films will be broadcast and in the evening they’ll be holding a lottery where you can win bottles of champagne. A free cocktail is offered to anyone in Christmas-themed dress. On New Year’s Eve the Generator is holding its own party featuring a DJ and karaoke and with many prizes and a glass of champagne for each customer.

Get Christmas dinner at the Clink Hostel in London on Christmas Eve with lollipops and wine. Then on Christmas morning guests can come to a pyjama party where you can get breakfast until noon and then play billiards, quizzes and games and on Boxing Day, you can join in with a fun game of bingo.

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About The Author:  Shing Mon Chung | Online Marketing Executive | HostelBookers.com Ltd  e: ShingMon.Chung@Hostelbookers.com | t:+44 (0)20 7406 1800 | f:+44 (0)20 7406 1801
a: 52-54 High Holborn, London, WC1V 6RL
Registered Number: 2841908 England
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Photo Credit:  HostelBookers.com

For most, going on holiday is not only about leaving your stresses at the check-in desk at the airport, but also about sampling a new culture, exploring foreign traditions and of course, indulging in the very best of local cuisine. Authentic restaurants in holiday hot spots can sometimes be hard to find, and with so much choice on offer with holidays to Tenerife, it’s worth taking the time to distinguish the hidden gems from the tourist traps.

Santa Ursula, situated between the two popular resorts of Santa Cruz and Puerto de la Cruz, is one of the more genuinely Canarian towns in Tenerife and therefore is a great destination for some traditional restaurants. Bodeguita de Enfrente is one of these great kept secrets, serving Canarian tapas with a modern twist. Brothers Mario and Fabian have created a menu that not only appeals to those looking for a taste of the traditional, but also to modern diners, in search of something contemporary. The brothers love their wine so you will always have a great bottle to compliment your dish here. Try the morcilla, a fried sweet sausage, and the huevos al estampido, mixed eggs with potatoes and ham, for a flavour delight. It’s a good idea to book first.

The town of Santa Ursula is also home to another treasure, Calderito de la Abuela. Placed atop the Orotava valley on the edge of the town, it has the most spectacular views to match its impressive food. This very homely restaurant, with family photographs displayed on the wall, serves a range of fresh seafood platters, grilled cheese and peppers and colourful salads, all within a warm, eclectically designed setting.

No culinary trip across Tenerife would be complete without a seafood restaurant, and La Marea los Abrigos is the perfect example. Sat overlooking the sea, just along from the resort of Golf de Sur, when you enter this eatery you will walk past a display case of fish, giving you the ultimate choice in which to sample. The menu is simple, keeping the best ingredients fuss free and letting them speak for themselves. Not only can you enjoy the real taste of Tenerife here, but also sit back and listen to the sounds of the waves and indulge in the memorable surrounds.

Playa de las Americas is one of the most popular tourist areas where many come to holiday in Tenerife. Of course with high amounts of tourism comes a lot of hurried food, so try find somewhere off the beaten track, and just along the coast is Adeje. While holidays to Costa Adeje are increasingly popular in Tenerife, the area still retains an authentic feel. In the old town of Adeje you will find, Otelo, a family run restaurant whose popularity is shown through the amount of dining locals every evening, which is testament to the restaurants excellence. With stunning views of the Barranco del Infierno, one of Tenerife’s most famous walking areas, the famous dish here is the pollo al Ajillo, a simple garlic chicken, which is the perfect dish to enjoy in this sociable, relaxed setting.

In Puerto de la Cruz, you can find a chic, elegant restaurant run by the award winning chef, Jesus Gonzalez. El Duende plays host to some of the most creative interpretations of seasonal Canarian dishes, such as rabbit served with a perfectly balanced mojo canario (a Canary sauce), goat stew served with pumpkin and sweet black pudding, and an apple and pear carpaccio with foie gras. Be warned however, you must leave room for dessert at El Duende, where pastry chef Pedro Rodriguez can delight your taste buds with such delights as banana parfait with a hazelnut cake and rum ice cream.

There are many places showcasing the best in Canary Island cuisine across the island of Tenerife. The ingredients speak for themselves here, and if treated with care, can contribute to some of the most memorable dishes you will ever find. Make sure you discover beyond the tourist cafes and diners, and really seek out an authentic meal whilst on holiday in Tenerife.

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About the Author:   This article was written by Laura Feasey, a member of the easyJet holidays travel writers team.
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