Preparing For A Warm Summer 2024

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As we anticipate the arrival of summer 2024, many of us wonder: will the UK experience a scorching heatwave? The good news is that weather experts expect the summer to be nice, but not uncomfortably hot. 

According to weather forecast experts, while it's expected to be warm, the likelihood of extreme heatwaves is low based on the current weather pattern. So, for anyone who remembers the heatwaves of 2022, this year isn’t expected to repeat the same phenomenon! That being said, temperatures are projected to reach the mid-30s from time to time, so you should still be looking at some heat. Yet, the word of the summer is warm and not hot, and this is precisely what we want!

So, while we may not need to brace ourselves for record-breaking heat, it's still wise to prepare for the warmth and to consider the best activities to make the most of it. Let's explore how we can get ready for a summer filled with sunny days and balmy evenings without feeling overwhelmed.

A refreshing bucket list

While the temperatures may rise, summer in the UK promises to be enjoyable without being overwhelmingly hot. It's the perfect time to create a refreshing bucket list filled with activities that celebrate the season. From family outings to pic-nics in the park to leisurely days at the seaside, there's no shortage of ways to embrace the outdoors. You can even consider planning a day of fruit picking with your loved ones, if we believe the weather forecast. 

Indulging in the simple pleasure of harvesting nature's bounty while soaking up the warm sun. Isn’t it what summer is all about? 

Three Amazing Ways to Explore the UK

 

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As a child growing up we holidayed in the UK each summer, in fact, we were even more predictable than that and we basically only went on holiday to beach resorts within a couple of hours' travel of our home in Surrey. My Dad has never liked long drives and he's a bit of a homebody so we didn't even contemplate going abroad. 

Roll forward a few years when I had my own income I was desperate to travel and explore further afield, so each year I'd go abroad two or three times a year and always to somewhere new, so I could experience different cultures and places. It was great to have this time of exploration and excitement, but then once I had settled down into married life we had children, my desires changed.  The idea of taking babies, toddlers or even young children on a plane and dealing with the burning sun sounded like a nightmare!

So, for many years we chose to holiday in the UK and explore our amazing country. There is so much to see and such a lot of variety of places to visit, that you do not need to head to Europe, the Caribbean or the Americas. You can also travel the UK in all sorts of ways, so let's explore a few that my husband and I fancy taking on in the coming years.

Caledonian Sleeper Train to Edinburgh

None of our children have been to Scotland yet, so we are really keen to expose them to the delights of this amazing country. Edinburgh is a very easy train ride away from London, just 7 hours and 45 minutes away and we can book seats or sleeper cabins to enjoy our ride. I'm sure we'd have an early morning call to ensure we can see some of the sights as we travel into Scotland.

It feels like August is a perfect month to visit as the weather should be good and we will get to see the Edinburgh Tattoo, which is an amazing sight to behold. We've been to many military parades before, but I don't think any will come close to this and it will give us a taste of real Scotland. 

A few days in Edinburgh will be easy to fill with visits to the castle, the Royal Mile, the Underground vaults, Calton Hill and the Royal Botanic Gardens.

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British Isles Discovery Cruise

We've never experienced a cruise as yet and it is something I really fancy. I love the idea of visiting multiple places but without it being too difficult to move between them. A UK cruise is perfect for people like us, who have not yet cruised, as we can ease into it gently and see if it is for us.

There are multiple places in the UK to be able to board the cruise, a range of different cabin types depending on your budget and of course so much delicious food and drink to enjoy as you cruise. Depending on the cruise you choose you can be at sea for as little as three days or as many as you like if you decide to go long haul.

On a British Isles cruise, you may get to stop and explore places such as the Orkney Isles, Isle of Mull, Isle fo Sky, Belfast, Cork, Isles of Scilly, Portsmouth, Plymouth, Bristol, Liverpool and you might even choose to add in a little more excitement by choosing stops at the Channel Islands, Belgium or the Netherlands. 

Cornwall by Camper Van

OK, I say by campervan, but if I am honest, I am more of a woman who likes her comfort, so I'd probably choose the less cute motorhome option, and know I can have a decent night's sleep. We've never explored Cornwall as a family as it is a very long drive to get there, but I feel it is somewhere that I want to go to.

I'm an old romantic at heart and the amount of books I have read that are set in Cornwall has really whet my appetite to visit there. It's another trip that I'd like to do in the warmer months, but maybe in early May or late September so that we don't have the full summer holiday gang there at the same time. 

I'm picturing the motorhome parked up somewhere beautiful with a nice glass of wine and a book as the sun goes down and my husband and I enjoy being in each other's company, before heading to a small restaurant for some beautiful home-cooked food. 

6 Fun Things To Do In London With Kids

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The world is filled with distractions, and sometimes, finding time to bond with your children can be tough. However, family time can foster deeper emotional connection and help your children develop social skills while creating lasting memories. While there are many activities, like picnics and camping, you can do with your children, travelling or taking them on a trip can broaden their views of the world and cultivate their independence. If you have decided to make London your next destination, you have made a fantastic choice. The city has delicious street food, lots of free parks and playgrounds, and great outdoor space. Before you pack your bags, consider adding these fun activities to your itinerary. 

1. Start with the London aquarium

Are your children fascinated with sea life? If yes, then the London Aquarium is your best choice, as it is suitable for all ages, and it features different kinds of species and marine animals, such as piranhas, crocodiles, and sharks. You can also find plenty of penguins to play with. The aquarium is open all week, and it is located on London’s South Bank. If you have an hour or two to spare, consider striking this activity off your list, preferably in the morning during the weekday when the place is less crowded. Also, indulge in interactive experiences like dive shows and jellyfish displays.

2. Build in the Lego store

Most children love Lego, so going to the Lego store would be a treat. The place has a 20-foot replica of Big Ben and a mosaic portrait system that allows your children to create their portraits with instructions after they have taken their pictures at a special booth. Buy your tickets online and secure a date before you finally decide your date and time. If you are coming to Leicester Square from another location like Paddington, consider using solutions like the luggage storage Paddington station, as big bags are not accepted at the Lego store due to security reasons. Also, research the other attractions and ensure your kids meet the height requirements to avoid disappointment. Ensure you have a budget for the Lego-themed souvenirs that will be available at the store. 

Essential Summer Holiday Preparation - 25 Ways to Ensure You are Ready

We've booked our summer holiday already. The kids are really excited and I'm on countdown but we are feeling very well prepared so I thought I'd share with you the things I do to ensure I am fully ready for my family's summer holiday.

Once you've booked the holiday itself it would be easy to just sit back and think that you're sorted but there any many more things you can be doing in advance that will help you save money and ensure that your vacation goes really well.

At Least 3 Months in Advance

1.  Check your Passport and if you need a Visa
Depending on where you are travelling to will dictate whether you need a visa or not. This Gov.uk site is the best place to start. Also make sure you check your expiry date on your passport as travel to some countries will require you to have at least 6 months left on your passport once you re-enter the UK.

2.  Do you need any Vaccinations?
Country-specific information and advice is published by the National Travel Health Network and Centre on the TravelHealthPro website, so make sure you check their about health and vaccination information relevant to the country you are visiting.

Top 7 Unforgettable Experiences on a UK Forest Holiday

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From ancient woodlands to picturesque landscapes, the UK offers a diverse range of forest getaways, perfect for your next break. Forest retreats UK not only brings a wealth of mental and physical health benefits, but they also provide adventures and experiences, unlike any other type of getaway.

Here are seven must-do activities to make the most of your UK forest holiday:

1. Explore ancient woodlands

One of the unique charms of a UK forest holiday is the chance to explore ancient woodlands. Places like the New Forest in Hampshire and Sherwood Forest in Nottinghamshire are perfect examples of forests that blend adventure with history. Take leisurely walks, breathe in the crisp air, and immerse yourself in the history that permeates these age-old woods.

2. Adventure into the treetops

Take your forest holiday to new heights by exploring the trees from a new perspective. Many forest destinations in the UK offer thrilling tree-top adventures and canopy walks. From treetop adventures to high rope courses and zip lines – the UK offers some of the most exciting forest adventures.

3. Wildlife watching

The UK's forests are filled with diverse wildlife, making them an ideal destination for nature lovers. Pack a pair of binoculars and keep your eyes peeled for the likes of deer, red squirrels, and a variety of bird species. Some forests are known for their exceptional wildlife habitats, such as those in the Isle of Wight, renowned for sightings of the endangered red squirrels.

Why not join guided tours or wander quietly through the woods to increase your chances of spotting these unique creatures?

Ideas for an Adventure Seeking Holiday in the Caribbean

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If you're a regular thrill seeker, you have probably been there and done that with most of the adventure activities in Europe, so now may be the perfect time to spread your wings, or find your sea legs to be more accurate and head out to the Caribbean for a luxury cruise of multiple islands.  

There is so much adventure to be pursued in the Caribbean, all amongst the absolute beauty of the white sandy beaches and deep turquoise waters. I want to share with you a few ideas for amazing cruise holidays with bags of adventure thrown in.

Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean is the second-best cruise line for mega-ships (with over 4000 passengers) as voted by the readers of Conde Nast, so you know you can't go wrong when you choose to cruise with them. Their liners cater to all kinds of travellers but Cruise Critic suggests they are particularly good for first-time family cruisers with their ultimate family suites having in-room slides, table tennis, life-size Connect-four, and a personal gaming room. That all sounds pretty darn fun to me. Add to that the SeaPlex, which is the largest indoor sports and entertainment complex at sea, with attractions ranging from roller skating and video gaming to a circus school, complete with flying trapeze classes. 

You can sail for as little as two nights, but for a full quota of thrills and fun, around nine nights is perfect and then you can choose to travel across the western, southern, or eastern Caribbean. The choice really is yours!

Sailing with Royal Caribbean also means you get to stop at CocoCay, a private island in the Bahamas and there is so much to do there. You could experience the island from 450 meters in the air as you take a balloon ride, enjoy the thrills of the waterpark, which boosts Daredevil's Peak, the tallest slide in North America, or even zipline across the blue, blue sky. 

Seville Splendors: A Family Adventure in Spain's Vibrant City

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Seville, the heart of Andalusia in southern Spain, is a city steeped in history, culture, and a vibrant way of life. With its stunning architecture, lively flamenco performances, and mouthwatering cuisine, Seville is an ideal destination for families seeking an enriching and memorable experience. In this guide, we'll explore the many splendours of Seville and how you can plan the perfect family adventure in this captivating Spanish city.

Planning Your Seville City Break

Choosing the Right Time to Visit

Seville enjoys a Mediterranean climate, which means mild winters and hot summers. To make the most of your family adventure, consider visiting during the spring or autumn months when the weather is pleasant, and the city is less crowded. Summer can be scorching, making outdoor activities less enjoyable, especially for young children.

Exploring Seville Vacation Packages

To streamline your trip planning, explore Seville vacation packages offered by various travel agencies. These packages often include accommodations, guided tours, and admission to popular attractions. It's an excellent way to ensure a hassle-free experience for the entire family.

Family-Friendly Accommodations

Choose accommodations that cater to families, such as hotels with family suites or vacation rentals with multiple bedrooms. Having a comfortable and spacious place to stay is essential for a relaxed and enjoyable trip. Look for options that provide amenities like swimming pools, childcare services, and easy access to public transportation.

Must-Visit Attractions for Families

Seville offers a wealth of family-friendly attractions that will captivate the imagination of both parents and children.

1. The Alcazar of Seville

Step into a fairytale by visiting the Alcazar, a stunning palace complex with enchanting gardens. The intricate architecture and lush greenery make it a magical place for kids to explore. Be sure to arrive early to avoid long queues.

2. Plaza de España

This magnificent square is a must-visit for its iconic semicircular building, bridges, and colourful ceramic tiles representing different regions of Spain. Take a leisurely stroll, rent a rowboat on the canal, or simply enjoy the breathtaking architecture.

3. Parque de Maria Luisa

Adjacent to Plaza de España, this park offers a relaxing oasis for families. Kids can run freely, and you can enjoy a picnic amidst beautiful gardens and fountains. Don't forget to visit the whimsical Plaza de América within the park.

4. Seville Aquarium

For a unique and educational experience, head to the Seville Aquarium. It's a great way for kids to learn about marine life and the importance of conservation. The interactive exhibits and underwater tunnel are sure to fascinate.

5. Isla Mágica

If your family craves adventure, spend a day at Isla Mágica, a theme park in Seville. With thrilling rides, water attractions, and entertaining shows, it's a fantastic place to create lasting memories with your children.

Cultural Experiences for All Ages

Seville is steeped in culture and history, and there are plenty of opportunities for your family to immerse yourselves in the local way of life.

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6. Flamenco Shows

Introduce your family to the magic of flamenco by attending a live performance. The passionate music, intricate dance moves, and colourful costumes will leave a lasting impression on all family members.

7. Cooking Classes

Learn to prepare traditional Spanish dishes as a family. Cooking classes in Seville often cater to children, making it an interactive and delicious experience for everyone. Bond over paella, tapas, and churros.

8. Horse-drawn Carriage Ride

Explore the historic city centre in style with a horse-drawn carriage ride. Children will delight in this unique mode of transportation while taking in the sights of Seville's charming streets.

Dining Delights

Spanish cuisine is renowned for its diverse flavours, and Seville is no exception. Embrace the local culinary scene with these family-friendly dining options.

9. Tapas Exploration

Introduce your family to the joy of tapas, small plates perfect for sharing. Head to local tapas bars and let everyone sample a variety of dishes, from patatas bravas to jamón ibérico.

10. Chocolaterías

Indulge your sweet tooth at Seville's chocolaterías, where you can enjoy churros dipped in thick, rich chocolate sauce. It's a favourite treat for kids and adults alike.

11. Family-friendly Restaurants

Seville offers numerous restaurants with kid-friendly menus and a relaxed atmosphere. Look for venues that offer paella, grilled meats, and other dishes that cater to various tastes.

A Taste of Seville's Festive Spirit

Seville is renowned for its vibrant festivals, and if your family's visit coincides with one of these celebrations, you're in for a treat. The Semana Santa (Holy Week) and Feria de Abril (April Fair) are two iconic events that offer a unique cultural experience. During Semana Santa, the city comes alive with processions, music, and religious fervour. Families can witness these moving events together, providing an opportunity for cultural understanding and reflection. Similarly, the Feria de Abril transforms Seville into a lively fairground filled with colourful tents, dancing, and traditional costumes. Children will love the fairground rides and the chance to immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere.

The Warmth of Sevillanos

One of the most delightful aspects of visiting Seville with your family is the warm and welcoming nature of the locals, known as Sevillanos. They have a reputation for their friendliness and genuine hospitality, making it easy for families to feel at home in the city. Sevillanos are often accommodating to children, and you'll find that your family is embraced with open arms in restaurants, parks, and attractions. Don't be surprised if your children are greeted with smiles and kind gestures as they explore this charming city. This warm reception adds an extra layer of joy to your family adventure in Seville, creating heartwarming memories that you'll cherish for years to come.

Conclusion

Seville is a city of splendours waiting to be explored by families seeking a unique and enriching adventure. With its captivating architecture, cultural experiences, and delicious cuisine, Seville offers something for every member of the family. By planning your Seville city break carefully, exploring Seville vacation packages, and prioritising family-friendly activities and accommodations, you can create cherished memories that will last a lifetime. So, pack your bags, immerse yourself in the beauty of Seville, and embark on a family adventure like no other. ¡Viva España!

Exploring New Things with Your Partner

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Trying new things with your partner is key to a happy and long-lasting relationship. No matter how much you love someone, your feelings can fade over time if you don't work on your relationship together. A healthy relationship will always undergo change as people change over the years that they're together. The trick is to change with your partner, as this will create a stronger bond.

One of the best things you can do to change with your partner is to experience new things together. A lot of couples will try things together in the early stages of their relationship but will slow down as the years go by. This leads to the relationship becoming stale and uninteresting and can make people fall out of love over time.

Exploring new things together doesn't have to mean something like a strap-on vibrator, but instead, anything that both you and your partner are interested in. This could be travelling to a new country or something as simple as trying a new restaurant. Together, you and your partner will create new memories together, which is essential for building a stronger bond. 

Learning New Things

One of the best things about trying something new with your partner is that you both get to learn. Not only will you be learning to do something new, but you'll also be learning more about each other and yourselves. Learning new things together enriches relationships because it allows you to be vulnerable with your partner and vice versa.

When you're learning a new task, neither side is an expert. Therefore mistakes and failures are inevitable. This gives you and your partner a chance to offer encouragement and also helps cooperation. When you and your partner do this together, you'll foster closer ties and feel happier with one another.

Learning new things could include taking a cooking or art class or even picking up a new sport together. There are loads of opportunities out there and plenty of different things for everyone. If you and your partner struggle to agree on something you'd both enjoy, you can come up with a compromise to each try something the other suggests. Who knows, you may even surprise yourself. 

Tips for Visiting Milan and Lake Como

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Lake Como is the ultimate escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The crystal-blue waters, lush green mountains, and quaint villages are all things you’ll encounter when visiting this picturesque location. Milan, on the other hand, is a city full of surprises. It’s not just the capital of Northern Italy but also home to some of the most beautiful landmarks in Europe. If you’re looking for a perfect blend of culture, history, and natural beauty, then book your flight to Milan immediately.

Here are a few tips for visiting Milan and Lake Como.

 

Shop for Jewellery and Accessories in Milan

Milan is the place to shop if you’re looking for some unique and elegant jewellery pieces, as the city has a long heritage and tradition of craftsmanship and is home to many unique stores, such as Pisa Orologeria for example, which is among Italy’s most famous watch shops. The city is also a fashion capital of the world, so here you will also find the boutiques of all the top-tier designers, such as Armani, Gucci, Prada and Versace, to name just a few. The city is a fashion and luxury icon and has been for decades.

 

Visit the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is one of the most famous shopping malls in all of Italy, and it’s located right in the centre of Milan. It’s actually one of the oldest malls in Europe as well and was founded in 1913, making it a truly impressive sight to see. The main entrance is located on Via Palestro, while there are several other smaller entrances as well, making it easy for you to get around without too much hassle.

The Ultimate Guide for Families Travelling on a Budget: Top 9 Tips

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If you're like most families, you're always looking for ways to save money. And when it comes to traveling, that can sometimes be a challenge. But don't worry – we've got you covered!

In this blog post, debt help experts Creditfix go over their top money-saving tips for families looking to travel on a budget. From everyday budgeting and savings tips to free advice on the latest solutions, Creditfix are financial experts and help thousands of people beat debt each year.

Check out their top tips below:

1. Plan ahead:

Your vacation is a time to relax and enjoy yourself, but it can also be a major strain on your budget. If you're not careful, the costs of travel, lodging, and activities can add up quickly. The key to any successful vacation, especially one on a budget, is planning ahead. By giving yourself time to research different travel options and compare prices, you'll be more likely to find the best deal for your family. You should also look for ways to cut costs without sacrificing quality. For example, you might want to consider renting a vacation home rather than staying in a hotel. 

Whilst you're away, you'll want to keep in touch with your loved ones, and a cost-efficient way to do that is with Holafly's esim for travelers.

2. Set a budget:

One of the most important aspects of planning a vacation is setting a budget. You need to know how much you're willing to spend on travel and accommodations before you start searching for deals. Keep in mind that vacation prices can vary depending on the time of year and the destination. If you're flexible with your travel dates, you may be able to find a better deal. It's also a good idea to consider the cost of activities when you're budgeting for your vacation. If you're traveling with family, look for vacation packages that include family-friendly activities.

5 Ways To Make Holidaying Abroad More Ethical

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It’s become increasingly common to set aside international travel in recent years, as the cost of living, the risks of Covid and the environmental toll have all become starkly obvious. Make no mistake, these are all perfectly good reasons to focus more on a staycation or a local holiday and a lesson we can all learn is that there is beauty and interest on our doorstep. From now on, hopefully, the dial will be turned in favour of more domestic travel, but it would, however, be a shame to become totally insular and miss out on the delights that can be experienced in other countries. A good way forward could be to focus on more ethical ways to see the world and contribute to tourist economies.

Can you travel internationally without compromising on your principles? Yes, but it will take a little more effort. Is it worth it? Yes, it certainly is. Below, we’ll go into some of the ways you can satisfy the more ambitious parts of your wanderlust without having to silence the ethical voice that keeps you on the straight and narrow, as well as recommending some places you can see while doing so. Safe travels (for you and the planet)!

Focus on the local

Just as you can favour local economies at home and keep your carbon footprint to a minimum, overseas travel can offer you opportunities to do likewise. The best way of doing this is to visit destinations outside of the tourist season and keep your focus on the local area. If you go to France, it doesn’t have to be all about heading to Paris to see the Eiffel Tower. There are innumerable delightful French villages that you can reach without even stepping on a plane - and while there you can eat at independent local restaurants, travel by public transport and stay in family-owned accommodation such as B&Bs.

This way, you contribute to the local economy of these areas, conserve the natural character of the communities and experience the genuine uniqueness of your destination - and all without having to queue for hours to see something you’ve seen thousands of times on TV!

Retreat at The Greenhouse Christian Centre, Poole

In early December last year, I stayed at The Greenhouse Christian Centre in Poole for four nights and I had the most amazing time. Some of that was because I met profoundly with Jesus and the Holy Spirit did a lot of healing work in me, but much of that was possible because I was staying in a wonderful and anointed retreat centre with a hospitality-focused team. It's therefore my joy to share with you a review of my time at The Greenhouse Christian Centre. 

Location

The Greenhouse Christian Centre is actually located between Westbourne and Branksome but has a Poole address. It is just under two miles to Bournemouth town centre and nearly five to Poole. You can easily get a train into Bournemouth mainline station and catch a bus, or if you get off the train at Branksome it is about a 10/15 minute walk, depending on how leisurely you want to walk. 

I found the location really convenient as someone who travelled by public transport, as the quaint town of Westbourne is about a ten-minute walk and there you can find coffee shops, restaurants, take-aways and shops. Or you can get to the woodland chines and access the gorgeous Bournemouth beaches by walking for about 20 minutes. 

It would be easy to find my using a sat nav if you are driving and there is plenty of parking available.

 

Review: Spa Day at Ashford International Hotel, Kent

Back in November a friend and I spent the day at the spa at the Ashford International Hotel (it was a weekday, term-time visit). It wasn't somewhere either of us had been to before but with a 4-star rating, I was hopeful for a good experience. In truth, my expectations weren't too high as I know I'm pretty fussy and the day had only cost me  £87 for two of us to have the spa day with lunch and 50 minutes of treatments. So at, £43.50 each it was a real bargain, having bought it on Red Letter Days with one of their excellent discounts (definitely sign up for their mailing list, where you often get offered 10 - 25% off their deals).

Booking and Before the Day

The voucher was easy enough to buy from Red Letter Days and I had to call Q Hotels central reservations to make the booking, which was fine but I found it a bit odd that they didn't email or send a confirmation. They just gave me a booking number and apparently, this is all they do.

Once I'd booked I had a few questions to ask about the robes, lunch and treatments but the customer service was pretty awful. It took me around two weeks to actually get to speak to someone at the hotel spa. When I did, Liberty was very pleasant and helpful, but I didn't like having to chase for answers when my questions were so simple.

Arrival at the Hotel

The hotel was easy to find and there was plenty of parking available. There is a direct entrance by the spa and I'd arranged to meet my friend in the hotel lounge, so I just wandered through. The lounge and public areas are really nice, very well set-out to allow for private space and we had a very enjoyable coffee before going through to the spa. Although it was a pricey coffee at £3.85 for a regular cappuccino, so lucky it was good. 

The Most Important Sights in London

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London is a living blend of grandeur, history, style, and culture that becomes more and more enticing each year. Charming with royal parks, world-class free art galleries, and wooden-fronted pubs with delicious real beer. The ancient streets of London and the majestic architecture take you to the days of the past. Then, the illuminated signs of the West End theatres, designer shops, and the emerging innovative food space that is considered one of the world's premier choices bring you right up to date. Some of the best family hotels in London are a sight to behold too.

London is a place of diversity, with people from all over the world making up the population. Filled with British emblems, the ubiquitous presence of black cabs and with the towering limestone peaks of Parliament, London combines a colourful history and tradition with extreme creativity and true multiculturalism. Whether exploring one of the famous markets or relaxing in a lush park, you will see people from all over the world.

Culturally, London is unique, with its galleries and museums, some of which are the best in the world. Many of London's cultural attractions are free to enter and there is a great variety of attractions. From the Victoria and Albert Museum to the Natural History Museum to the Tate Modern to the London Transport Museum. There is something for everyone.

Everyone will have a different idea of what the premier sights are to visit when you're in London and many will go straight for the Royal sites like Buckingham Palace and the Tower of London, but read on for three great places to visit that are rich in history and a joy to explore. 

10 Reasons to Fall in Love with York

In early August we were lucky enough to spend a weeks holiday staying at a friends house (a vicarage no less) on the outskirts of the city of York, which is the traditional county town of Yorkshire. I absolutely fell in love with the place and considering I no longer consider myself a townie, having lived in the countryside for the last eight years, I think this is a bit of a feat and therefore I wanted to share just a few of the reasons why I think York is a fabulous place to take a city break, or in fact, to set up home.

1.  There is so much history

The skyline is dominated by the 13th-century Gothic cathedral, York Minster. It is absolutely stunning with gorgeous stained glass and working bell towers. It seems to have been preserved really well and is humongous in stature, being the largest Gothic cathedral in Northern Europe. If you wish to view it as a tourist there is a charge, or you can go along and enjoy one of the daily services without having to pay. It is also quite fun that there is a walking ghost tour from outside the Minster each evening at 7.30pm. 

People meeting outside for the evening ghost tour

Holidaying in the UK: Planning for All Eventualities

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More and more of us are choosing to stay in the UK for our holiday this year and I suspect it may become a trend over the next few years as well, as people recover financially and emotionally from the scars of Covid 19. 

Personally, I love going on holiday here as we have such a beautiful country and there is so much to explore, with great diversity in our towns, countryside and coastline. There is no need for holidaying in the UK to be looked down on as the poor relation to foreign travel. It is far more kind to our world, it can save you a decent amount of money and you know the language!

In the last couple of years, we have explored so much more of our home county, East Sussex and found some real gems for days out. Also, we have also stayed in West Sussex, Kent, Yorkshire, Surrey, Hampshire, Hertfordshire and London and I can honestly say the only thing we have missed is the guaranteed sunshine and massive swimming pools that you tend to get abroad. I've found that going on holiday with the right attitude and knowing that the holiday will be more about exploring a new area, eating great food and enjoying time as a family has allowed us to not feel as if we have missed out. 

Of course, things can go wrong on holiday here in the UK, just the same as they can anywhere else so it is important to be ready and prepared as you can be. Here are a few things to think about and organise before your holiday, so that you can have the most stress-free time whilst you're away. 

3 Getaways Abroad for a Relaxing Trip

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{This post is written in collaboration with Emily Jones}

After a year of staying indoors and lockdowns, we are all craving some sun and a fun excursion. A relaxing holiday to an exotic location can help to relieve the anxiety and stress caused by the pandemic and will be a really welcome release for most people.

If you are planning a getaway abroad, here are three destinations worth considering -

 

1. Blue Lagoon, Iceland

Experience ultimate relaxation soaking in the geothermally heated water surrounded by breathtaking views of the Icelandic landscape. The Blue Lagoon is an artificial spa that utilizes water from the surrounding geothermal plant. The water is warm all-year-round making it perfect for soaking in even in extreme temperatures. Besides, the minerals and silica boost its healing properties, making it perfect for rejuvenating your skin and relaxing your mind.

The ideal time to vacation at the Blue lagoon is during winter if you want your skin to reap the benefits of both warm and cold temperatures. Apart from swimming in the spa, you can enjoy a drink in the swim-up bars. You can also enjoy premium services like facemasks and other treatments from the in-water mask bar at Blue Lagoon. The silica and algae masks have numerous health benefits for your skin, reducing signs of ageing and nourishing your skin.

Gifts for Travel Loving Mums

Photo by Persnickety Prints on Unsplash

{This post is written in collaboration with Emily Jones}

Finding the ideal gift for a travel fanatic can be tricky. When a plane ticket is too costly, you need to find a thoughtful and practical gift idea that they will love. With Black Friday coming up, here are some inspirations to help you find your mum or friend the perfect gift for the holiday season!

 

A Stunning Travel Bag

A versatile travel bag can make the perfect gift for someone who loves globetrotting. Carry-on sized travel bags are a stylish and durable gift, that will fit a few travel essentials and hopefully express the traveller’s personality too. You can browse a lovely selection of beautiful handmade travel bags from sites like Mirta, an Italian online marketplace that sources products from artisans from all across Italy, who are using only the best leathers. What’s more desirable and gorgeous than Italian bags?  Not a lot, that is for sure. They are made of water-resistant materials, have quality zippers to withstand harsh outdoor conditions and the luxurious leather sets them apart. You can choose from duffle bags or backpacks.

National Trust Ightham Moat: A great place for a Walk, Kent

We've been to Ightham Moat a couple of times now and enjoyed it both times, although they have felt quite different visits, with the first being back in October 2017 with 10-year-old twins and then the next time was this summer, during the COVID pandemic, and we took our three teenagers.

If you're looking to visit in the near future the moated house is currently closed but you can enjoy the outdoor space, both the gardens and the wider estate. The gardens aren't too big and with a one way system currently, they will only take an hour or so to walk around. If I'm honest, they are not impressive like the gardens of many National Trust sites. I think the gem of this site is being able to go inside the house, so with that closed the site doesn't have quite so much wow factor as normal. However, if you are willing to head out and take a longer walk, then the wider estate is fabulous and well-worth exploring. There is a big hill though, so be warned!

I think pictures speak a thousand words, so have a look at these from our visit this summer. The first few photos are within the gardens.

We captured the same photo in 2017 and then again this year and you can see just how much my twins have changed and grown!