Travel

Top Five Places to Visit Away From London.

Published

12 years ago

April 4, 2013

Coming to London is always interesting, I have never got bored of this city. Even after knowing a lot about the city, as I have been learning about it since childhood, I still feel there is lot to learn about it, and lot to experience. In my previous article I wrote about the best bars in London in my opinion. Today I will talk about the places which are not in London, but interesting, near and easy to reach. London is surrounded by some of the interesting castles, towns and English country side.

I arrived in London for an educational trip. And since you know I love to go around the places I never miss the opportunity of utilizing my free time in travelling. In a sudden change in plan we had to shift our meeting place. I had to hire a meeting room in London as the one where we had planned, was undergoing renovation. And I am glad that we did. This new place was very beautiful in the premises of a college. It had a panoramic view across the Thames and was few steps away from the famous art gallery and London landmark, Tate Britain. Sitting there after the conference, I was thinking and talking to the students about the places they prefer to go during short vacations or long weekends near London. I am glad that I had traveled to most of the places which fellow students suggested me. Here is my list of top five places to visit from London.

1. Brighton – London by the Sea

Brighton Pier, Photo by Helen Clark

Brighton is a famous sea side resort, a perfect getaway point for the ones in London who wish to celebrate their weekends away from the city. Brighton is known for its oriental architecture and large gay community.

Try getting down to Brighton Pier, it is a nice place to walk in the cool breeze, along the beautiful sea shore & in the calmness all around. This is a place that will get you revitalized if you need a break from your busy work schedule. It can be a long walk, there are cafes after a mile or two and public conveniences. The light reflected from the cliff is very bright making the place even more wonderful. The place is well lit at night and is good for making photos.

If you enjoy hiking like me then come to Devil’s Dyke where nature will treat you in its own way. If you are lucky to find clear sky, you will find the views over Sussex breathtaking which will make you just want to go on a long walk. It gives you a 360 degree views of Brighton out to the sea and across to North Downs. There is also a pub restaurant on the top. The pub is surprisingly good and gives you a great panoramic view if it is cold outside. The food is above average.

If you admire Indian architecture, come to Royal Pavilion, I had no idea such a thing existed in English cities when I went there to attend a friend’s marriage. Royal Pavilion is a brilliant piece of art designed with unbelievable architectural touches. Rebuilt in the 19th century by architect John Nash, this building features a unique mixture of classical and Indian styles, which has been labeled as “Hindu-Gothic. You can start your tour with the electronic headphone which can translate the history of pavilion into several languages. Paintings and other architecture inside the Pavilion gives you the Indian feeling.

2. Cardiff, Truly Welsh

Bute Park, Photo by Sarah Barker

Cardiff is the capital of Wales in the United Kingdom situated on the south coast of the country. The city is gaining popularity with tourists who are interested in its history and Welsh culture. Cardiff is quickly becoming one of the United Kingdom’s tourism hot spots.

Away from London if you have come to Cardiff for walking or picnicking with your family and kids, then Bute Park is one of the best places. There is an amazing animal wall silence in the park which gives you the calmness and creates a romantic atmosphere. Waterbus is a really nice touch to the park. Hop onto the waterbus which takes you along the river past the Millenium Stadium to Cardiff Bay. It is of great value and is a nice ride along the river. The park has good networks of tracks for cycling along with good cafes.

I have visited a lot of castles but Cardiff castle was one of the best I have seen in the country. It has 2000 years of history together in an eight acre site: Roman, Norman, Plantagenet and Victorian history. You can go from the old Roman, Norman and Medieval ruins to the newer wartime shelters and lavishly decorated interiors. The main castle itself in the centre has some great views of the city, Millennium rugby stadium being one of them.

3. Cambridge, a University City

Cambridge Backs, Photo by Paul Fenton

Cambridge allows you to form various impressions about the place. from world famous Cambridge Univeristy to breathtaking view of King’s College Chapel from across the river Cam. It is very common to see students pedaling their way to the lecture hall and people spending their lazy summers near the River Cam. The town also deserves your admiration for rich intricacy of Gothic architecture.

River Cam and the view of serene greenery and colleges makes Cambridge a place to relax being surrounded by some of the most genius people in the world. Come to the Backs which is known for their daffodils and crocuses in the spring and beautiful open areas and road through gardens behind many colleges along the River Cam. The river is a good for punting during lazy summers.

Visit a college and walk on their garden and enjoy student’s cafes and see if you can recall your college days. Entry inside the college campus may not be free unless you are member or if you have a local pass.

Also see Anglesey Abbey which is a few miles east of Cambridge, take bus no. 10 which plies every hour. It is a National Trust Property, a beautiful house having extensive trail of nature, pond with fishes, beautiful gardens big enough to lose oneself. It is a good place to take your kids and play. There is a water mill which functions whenever there are volunteers, it is fun for kids as they can mill flour. And you can buy the milled flour right there. The on-site catering is good quality, offering a fair choice of meals and snacks at lunchtime.

4. Northampton, Beautiful Countryside

Coton Manor Garden, Photo taken by Elliott Brown

Not to be confused with the Northampton in Massachusetts (U.S), it is a largest settlement in U.K which is not classified as city. The place has beautiful gardens, lakes art galleries and museums.

Northampton is smaller compared to Cardiff and Brighton and there are less things to do. What I like here is the peace and experiencing true English country. My favourite place here is Coton Manor Garden which is among the best gardens I have been to. I was lucky to see real flamingos here. There are less but good cafes for refreshment. Entry fees £6 per adult is of a good value and Parking is quite big. If you are a gardener yourself or pursue it as a hobby then you may learn some tips and tricks at this place and even buy some plants for your garden. There are several different types of gardens, and they give you a map. Start by the house and you will appreciate the beautiful lawn, rose garden, a large pond and terrace gardens.

Another beautiful place is Stanwick Lakes. There is lack of public transportation and its better if you go by car. Keep binoculars with you if you enjoy bird watching. The entry to the place is free and parking fee is mere £2 for the whole day. There is a nice cafe and mobile drinks van for refreshments. Cycle tracks are nicely laid if you love cycling. The atmosphere is serene, pretty and oriented for all. The place is great for relaxing with family or playing with kids. People of all ages would enjoy here including a romantic visit for couples.

5. Oxford, It is not all about the University!

Christ Church Meadows, photo taken by Tejvan Pettinger

Known for one of the most famous university in the world, Oxford University is also the oldest university in United Kingdom situated 50 miles (80 Km) west of London. The earlier evidence of teachings dates as far back as 1096.

Much of the development in Oxford is surrounding the university, though Oxford is not all about the university. Train ride from London takes you Thames valley. Section between Reading and Oxford gives you some of the best views of English countryside.

Christ Church Meadow is my favourite place in Oxford. It is a beautiful place ideal for picnic spot or just relaxing. This scenic park offers you to walk through the meadows and along the river. The park is just two minutes walk from the main Oxford shopping street in the city centre and leads you down to the river banks of the Isis (Thames as it is known is Oxford). Take some cheese, bread, strawberries and champagne with you and head to the meadow watch the punters and enjoy the magnificent view of the Christ Church.

Another similar place is Port Meadow. Stroll by the river, have lunch and drinks in a pub, take horse ride or even feed the horses ducks and swans. It is a great open space with horses and cows around. Whether you do cycling or run or walk, this place is good for all and if you are here during winter you can even see kids from the neighbourhood skating on the frozen lake.

Travel

Discover extraordinary places and enjoy unique experiences

Published

3 weeks ago

September 29, 2024

Andra Tudor

Exploring extraordinary places and having unique experiences are pleasures everyone wants to enjoy. There are many wonderful places to visit around the world, accessible with the right preparation and proper support. These destinations offer exceptional tourist services, are within your reach, and are waiting for you to discover them!

Travelling is one of the most enriching experiences a person can have. It allows you to discover new cultures, stunning landscapes, and moments that remain etched in your memory forever. If you are planning your holidays or a delightful weekend getaway with your partner, family, or friends, you’re surely considering all the options available to you. There are many excellent tourist destinations worth visiting.

Exploring unique destinations like the beaches of Tenerife, luxury villas in Sardinia, and The Mora Resort in Zanzibar are wonderful options to consider—not only for the breathtaking views but also for the high-quality services you’ll find there.

The unforgettable beaches of Tenerife

Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands, is famous for its extraordinary golden and black sand beaches, formed by volcanic activity. It’s a paradise for sun and sea lovers, as well as those seeking adventure and water activities. From surfing at Playa de las Americas to diving in the crystal-clear waters of Los Cristianos, Tenerife offers a wide range of experiences to suit all tastes.

There are some Good Tenerife beaches that you’re sure to fall in love with as soon as you arrive. All you need to do is plan well, check your possible routes, and, for added convenience, hire the services of a reliable taxi agency to take you across this coastal haven.

With access to transportation, you can visit any of the wonderful and paradisiacal beaches in this magnificent corner of the world. Simply coordinate the itinerary with the taxi you hire and get ready to enjoy one of the best experiences of your life—it’s certain to be a great help.

Luxury villas in Sardinia

Sardinia, an Italian island in the Mediterranean, is known for its stunning landscapes and exclusivity. The villas Sardinia offer a unique accommodation experience, combining modern comfort with the island’s natural beauty. These luxury villas, many located on the famous Smeralda coast, boast panoramic sea views, private pools, and direct access to private beaches.

These villas are the favourite spot for affluent individuals seeking tranquillity, beauty, comfort, and adventure all in one place, where you can spend unforgettable days surrounded by opulence in a setting full of style and sophistication—everything you deserve on your holiday.

To find the villa you want, it is advisable to seek the help of a good estate agency to assist you in finding a rental property for your holiday. Fortunately, there are excellent options for luxury villas in Sardinia that you can check out on the recommended portal and book straight away to ensure your perfect holiday spot.

The Mora Resort in Zanzibar

Zanzibar, an archipelago off the coast of Tanzania, is renowned for its beautiful white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. The Mora Resort, located right on one of its most stunning beaches, offers luxurious experiences and relaxation in a paradisiacal setting. This resort blends traditional Zanzibar architecture with modern amenities, set in a unique and welcoming environment.

Guests can enjoy activities such as snorkelling, diving, and boat trips, while exploring the rich marine life and coral reefs of the area. In addition, the resort offers spa and wellness treatments, allowing visitors to relax and rejuvenate in a tranquil and beautiful setting. The cuisine at this resort is another highlight. Its restaurants offer exquisite fusions of local and international flavours, using fresh, high-quality ingredients.

If you’re looking for an unforgettable holiday, Zanzibar is an excellent option, and The Mora offers an unforgettable stay to make your trip even more special.

In conclusion, whether you’re seeking relaxation on the golden sands of Tenerife, indulging in the luxury of Sardinia’s villas, or immersing yourself in the paradise of Zanzibar’s The Mora Resort, these exceptional destinations promise unforgettable experiences. With the right preparation, each journey will leave you with lasting memories, making your travels truly extraordinary.

Travel

Enjoy a luxury holiday in Zanzibar

Published

3 months ago

August 6, 2024

Andra Tudor

On the coast of Tanzania lies Zanzibar, a dream destination that promises an unparalleled and exotic experience for tourists seeking relaxation. If you’re considering visiting this stunning location, there’s no better way to do so than by staying at the luxurious The Mora hotel.

In Zanzibar, The Mora hotel can be found on the beautiful Muyuni Beach, where it stands out for offering an environment full of comfort, exclusivity, and luxury. This five-star resort is ideal for those looking to enjoy a unique and comfortable lodging experience in a paradisiacal setting.

At this prestigious hotel, you’ll find a wide range of services and entertainment activities suited to all ages and preferences. With private pools, gourmet restaurants, a luxury spa, evening entertainment, a kids’ club, and much more, The Mora proves it has something for everyone, making it an essential destination if you’re exploring Zanzibar.

The Mora: an unmatched luxury experience

The Mora resort Zanzibar is strategically located on Muyuni Beach, renowned for its beautiful landscapes, white sands, and turquoise waters. Here, guests have the opportunity to experience unparalleled luxury, combining elegantly designed and comfortable rooms with stunning panoramic views of the sea.

The Mora also offers an extensive and diverse dining experience. In its restaurants, you can savour exquisite local cuisine as well as eclectic international dishes. Additionally, you can enjoy your meals in the elegant dining areas of the restaurants, by the pool, or on the beach.

Beyond the unmatched luxury and comfort of The Mora, the hotel also provides a wide array of activities and entertainment. For water enthusiasts, there are various aquatic sports such as paddleboarding, diving, and snorkelling. Meanwhile, those who prefer land-based activities can enjoy a wide variety of cultural excursions.

Promotions and benefits

The Mora offers various options to suit different budgets without compromising on comfort or luxury. Additionally, you can always find The Mora promotions on their official website, including exclusive plans for families and couples, as well as discounts for special days and early bookings. Although prices may vary by season, there will be options available that offer greater affordability.

Furthermore, The Mora is known for its exceptional customer service. Once you arrive at the resort, the staff will be available 24/7 to handle any requests and resolve any doubts or issues that may arise.

Moreover, The Mora is not only distinguished by providing a luxury experience and extensive amenities but also by its strong commitment to sustainability and respect for the environment. This commitment is reflected in the implementation of numerous ecological practices and support for the local community’s development.

What to Do in Zanzibar

If you decide to stay at the stunning The Mora hotel, the next step is to explore everything Zanzibar has to offer. Among the key places to visit, Stone Town stands out as the island’s historic and cultural centre, where you can admire its breathtaking monuments and buildings.

Simultaneously, Zanzibar is an ideal destination for all water activities enthusiasts. It’s no surprise that you can partake in a wide range of aquatic activities, such as diving in the beautiful nearby coral reefs, swimming with dolphins, relaxing sunset cruises, or visiting the turtle aquarium. You’ll also find an extensive range of majestic beaches to suit all tastes. Muyuni Beach, where The Mora is located, is one of the standout options. However, you can also find other beaches like Kendwa and Nungwi, which offer a livelier environment, or Paje and Jambiani, which provide a more tranquil setting.

In conclusion, choosing The Mora for your stay in Zanzibar ensures an unforgettable luxury experience amidst one of the most breathtaking settings on earth. With its exquisite accommodations, diverse dining options, and an array of activities designed for relaxation and adventure, The Mora offers everything you need for a perfect getaway. Coupled with its commitment to sustainability and exceptional customer service, your stay at The Mora will not only be a lavish retreat but also a meaningful contribution to the local community and environment. Embrace the magic of Zanzibar and let The Mora elevate your holiday to new heights of comfort and elegance.

Europe

Barcelona and Athens: cities that will leave an everlasting impression

Published

6 months ago

April 30, 2024

Andra Tudor

Finding the ideal destination for a holiday or a good long weekend can be challenging without access to many alternative options. Luckily, there are cities that need no introduction to know that they hold the solution; such is the case with Barcelona, in Spain, and Athens, in Greece, which you should always have at the top of your list of potential places to visit.

Barcelona, a city you’ll never forget

Barcelona is where you can find everything to make the most of your time and live unique experiences. Just go online and search for a city guide of Barcelona to review everything and start planning your trip.

The help of a good website

Tourism blogs and websites are an excellent alternative to virtually explore Barcelona and learn more about places to visit, public transport schedules, dining options, hotels and accommodations, and other useful information to make your visit more enjoyable.

The key lies in planning

With good planning, you’ll not only find splendid places to spend wonderful moments but also save money and get great recommendations to make your trip and stay enjoyable.

Park Güell: a must-visit

Barcelona stands out for its incredible attractions, among which Park Güell shines. Just read more about this interesting place to fall in love with it and make this visit mandatory.

What is Park Güell?

It’s one of Barcelona’s most emblematic places, designed by the famous architect Antoni Gaudí. Originally conceived as a housing development and later converted into a public park.

Architectural and natural elements

The main entrance is flanked by two modernist pavilions, with a staircase leading to the famous hypostyle hall and a central square with a panoramic view of Barcelona. Additionally, it features over 17 hectares of gardens, viaducts, and winding paths, integrating architecture with the natural landscape.

Cultural Heritage

Park Güell is part of UNESCO’s World Heritage and is classified as a Cultural Interest Site of Spain.

Athens: a journey to the past

Another city that will surely surprise you with its cultural and historical legacy is Athens, Greece, where you can enjoy impressive Hellenic ruins. It’s advisable to visit an Athens travel guide on the internet before you go to learn about everything and better organise your visit.

Historical richness

With over 3,000 years of history, Athens is the cradle of Western civilization and is home to ancient monuments such as the Parthenon, the Agora, the Acropolis, and many Greek temples.

Mediterranean cuisine

One of the main attractions of this city is its cuisine, which offers a delicious culinary experience of the Mediterranean diet.

Hospitality

Athens is known for its friendliness, and it is well-equipped to cater to tourists from all over the world.

The Acropolis of Athens

While in Athens, you have to visit the Acropolis, where masterpieces of Hellenic architecture are concentrated for you to marvel at their grandeur. Keep in mind that it is a highly visited site, so you should book now to secure access for your visit.

Beautiful architecture

Acropolis means “high city,” as it is located on a rocky outcrop in the city centre. Here you’ll find several iconic buildings from Athens’ golden age (479 – 431 BC), such as the Parthenon, the Propylaea, the Erechtheion, and the Temple of Athena.

Central location

Reaching the Acropolis is easy from any point in the city, so you won’t get lost. From there, you’ll have panoramic views of the city spreading out at your feet.

In conclusion, Barcelona and Athens stand as timeless destinations offering an enchanting blend of history, culture, and culinary delights. Whether exploring the iconic landmarks of Barcelona or delving into the rich historical tapestry of Athens, these cities promise unforgettable experiences for travellers seeking adventure and discovery. With careful planning and the aid of modern resources, embarking on a journey to these vibrant metropolises ensures a truly memorable escape.