The United Kingdom

By

-

20 November 2020

Home » Travel Blog

Introducing the United Kingdom

Visiting the United Kingdom gives you variety at every turn whether it’s the iconic cities, the landmarks and their history and heritage, or the beautiful countryside, the rugged coastline, the inspiring peaks, the ancient woodland, the vast moors, and then all the activities within – there will always be something for you to enjoy.

The United Kingdom is divided into four very different nations – England – is the home of Shakespeare, Sherlock Homes, and football. Scotland – for Edinburgh, the Lochs, the Highlands, and its finest export – Whisky. Northern Ireland for Giants Causeway and the Titanic Visitor Attraction. Wales for the Celtic Welsh language, the rugged coastline, and national parks, Tom Jones, and rugby.

Each nation offers the visitor something truly special.

Key Information

Continent	Europe
Capital	London
Currency	British Pounds
Language	English
Visa	FCO Advi ce
Vaccinations	Vaccination A dvice
Tourist Office	Visit England

Getting Around

The best way to explore the UK is out on the open road allowing you to head off the beaten path and discover hidden coves and pretty little welcoming villages.

The train services are pretty good throughout the country if a little expensive, particularly in London and the South East.

The bus network is wide and on the whole excellent in the main cities although in some of the outlying villages and the country they are infrequent hence why the freedom of car hire is recommended.

Cycling is very popular in the main cities where cycling lanes are becoming more usual or out in the country which is popular for those seeking adventure health and activities.

Regional flights are common from the 20+ airports dotted around the United Kingdom. As always the earlier you book the better the prices.

Top Places To See & Things to Do

Bath, England
Known for its Roman Baths and Georgian architecture, this beautiful city has been luring visitors to its healing waters for more than 2,000 years.

Belfast & The Giants Causeway, Northern Ireland
Famous all around the world for its columns of layered basalt, the Giant’s Causeway is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Canterbury, England
just an hour from London, Canterbury has been a draw for pilgrims for more than 1,500 years. The pedestrianized centre of the town with its many preserved, historic, timber-framed buildings and the Canterbury Tales where you can uncover the life of the English poet Geoffrey Chaucer.

Cotswolds and Lake District, England
The Cotswolds provide visitors with a true taste of rural English life and is ideal for hiking, walking, and biking. The Lake District National Park is an area with 12 of the country’s largest lakes and again a great place to explore and hike including Scafell Pike – the tallest mountain in England.

Edinburgh, Scotland
A beautiful city with at its heart Edinburgh Castle and then the Old Town’s Royal Mile with its fine architecture, boutique shops, cafés, restaurants, and art galleries, plus Holyrood house and Princes Street for shopping.

Leeds, Yorkshire
A powerhouse of the north the city of Leeds in Yorkshire provides a wide range of attractions including the Leeds City Museum, The Victoria Quarter for shopping, lively nightlife, and the gentle River Aire to just sit back and relax.

Liverpool and Manchester, England
The North West of the UK gives us two cities that are an ideal gateway to the North and Scotland. Manchester is popular for its well-preserved Victorian houses, canals, and Roman ruins, as well as the many old warehouses now serving as trendy shops, hotels, and restaurants. Liverpool offers cultural sights and through its association with the Beatles an opportunity for ’60s music lovers to visit the famous Cavern Club. Both cities also come with a fine history of football success.

London
When visiting the UK a visit to London is a must with a wealth of attractions for all. The Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, Trafalgar Square, and several world-class museums of different interests. For places to eat how about checking out this great site www.eatinginlondon.co.uk

Salisbury, England
The medieval city of Salisbury has one of the country’s most iconic cathedrals and then 12 miles out of town the World Heritage Sites of Stonehenge.

Scilly Isles
Take a trip to the United Kingdom far west and visit the charming Isles of Scilly.

Snowdonia, Wales
The mountains of the Snowdonia are a popular attraction for those seeking nature and hiking. The mountains provide a stunning backdrop to the park’s estuaries, lakes, rivers, slate mines, and villages.

University Towns of Cambridge & Oxford, England
The two most famous university towns in England are Cambridge and Oxford. Each has plenty of attractions and a rivalry in the annual boat race held on the Thames every spring.

Windsor, England
Home to Windsor Castle which is one of the finest royal castles in the UK. The town also has beautiful gardens, top shopping, the Thames walks, and is not far from Royal Ascot, one of the UK’s top horse racing courses. It’s also home to Oakdale Bees, a recent experience I enjoyed.

York and its Minster, England
York Minster is one of the UK’s oldest and most celebrated churches while visitors can also explore the ancient city walls and a town famous for its welcoming tearooms and restaurants.

Pre-bookable Excursions in the United Kingdom

More Information

Contact the Visit England or your local travel agent for more information on holidays to the United Kingdom.

The Enchanting Archipelago of the Isles of Scilly

By

Prestige Travel

-

20 November 2020

0

Home » Travel Blog

The Isles Of Scilly, UK

Given the fact I worked “on the road” for much of the past 25 years there are very few corners of the United Kingdom that I have yet to tread however the Isles of Scilly, 28 miles off the coast of Cornwall, is one such outpost!

So why is it I have never been? Well, I guess for a start it was not on my business call list. Perhaps however the main reason was I have never known much about the Isles of Scilly and maybe had the impression that there would be very little for me to do there.

Now as the years go by peace, quiet and relaxation all work their way to the top of the holiday requirements list so maybe I should be considering these islands for that relaxing break to switch off and enjoy good old-fashioned British hospitality, some of life’s simple pleasures like rock pooling, beach walks and taking in that invigorating Atlantic sea air.

The tour operator Prestige Travel features the Isles of Scilly as part of their “Closer to Home” brochure – a selection of some of the British Isles as well as parts of Scotland and Ireland. During the crazy summer of 2020, Shubhra Halliday, from Prestige Travel recently took a break to this secret archipelago off the southwest tip of Britain.

Opportunity Knocks

When an opportunity presented itself to travel to the Covid-free destination of the Isles of Scilly – I jumped at the chance.

Having worked through the last six months in travel, it was a welcome break to experience what these islands could offer. It opened up in July 2020 and we have seen a surge of bookings travelling during the summer and autumn months this year. As you read on, you will not believe that all photos are my own from this trip – a real-life experience.

Getting Around The Isles Of Scilly

The Isles of Scilly is an archipelago around 30 miles off the southwestern tip of the United Kingdom. Though numbering fifty islands in total, only five are inhabited. There are options to fly via helicopter (15 minutes from Penzance) or Skybus flight – however, I boarded the 2.5-hour journey on the Scillonian Ferry from Penzance to St Marys.

It’s a lovely 10-minute leisurely walk from the quay to the hotel. With only 26 rooms in this stylish boutique hotel, it truly is home from home.

I followed an itinerary that we use for our Escorted Tours specialising in the Isles of Scilly. This would provide the best way of seeing the majority of the islands.

Each day, I took a boat to the different islands. Each one offers something unique and different. Travelling to the Isles of Scilly is like travelling back in time. It’s laid-back, relaxed, scenic & completely tranquil. The waters are crystal-clear, the nature is abundant with so many species of flowers, fauna, birds & insects.

I was very lucky to have travelled on the Eastern Isles Cruise to see what must have been over 80 seals in the wild. Travelling on this small cruise (usually holds about 35), is a 1.5-hour trip sailing around to the uninhabited islands where the Atlantic grey seal colonies and a variety of seabirds can be found.

St Martins

Another day saw me sailing to St.Martins. At just 2 miles long, this was a phenomenal sight with beautiful long stretches of powdery fine-white sandy beach. The water is sparkling clear blue. I can see why it is mistaken for the Caribbean.

Walking around, flowers are abundant along the winding road. A community that is so small has only 130 people who wave and are friendly (and all know each other).

St Agnes

Sailing to St.Agnes is an unspoilt & astonishingly beautiful island joined to its neighbouring island Gugh by a sand bar at low tide. Here the terrain is mixed from rocky outcrops in the west to hidden paradise coves in the east, joined by a patchwork of flower fields and farmland.

For pure nature lovers, this is a great place to find an abundance of wildlife. A real treat was finding the Isles of Scilly shrew – not something easily found. A great stop can be had at the infamous Turks Head for the traditional Cheese Ploughmans Lunch.

Tresco Island

Finally, one of the highlights of my trip was visiting Tresco Island which is privately owned. With its long silver beaches & historic sites including King Charles Castle – a coastal artillery fort dating back to the 16th century, truly a magnificent site.

For me, visiting the Abbey Gardens was my aspiration and did not disappoint. It is home to a huge collection of exotic plants from all over the world. This terraced sub-tropical garden boasts an astonishing collection from over 75 countries. It is described as a “Perennial Kew without the glass” and home to over 80 species of plants and flowers many of which could not thrive on the mainland. This truly is a nature-lovers paradise.

Food For Thought

Dining was incredible with so much emphasis on organic & fresh produce. With the water in abundance around the islands, seafood and locally caught fish are the order of the day…all prepared & cooked to a high level with attention to detail.

I got to visit the locally award-winning gin distillery & sample the goods – all obviously for work purposes. They truly are a self-sufficient destination.

Accommodation

I visited several hotels & guest houses – all catering to every type of Prestige Holidays customer. From couples & families staying at St.Marys Hall Hotel or for the older generation & families with teens, the Star Castle to the dog-accommodating Tregarthen’s or for those on a budget, the beautiful Schooners or even the idyllic hideaway of Karma to name but a few.

However, do remember these are small properties and can fill very quickly in a short amount of time.

Exceeding Expectations

To ensure I truly sampled the Isles of Scilly, I met with some locals and even went out on a few evenings with the youth & the elders also meeting one of three policemen working on the islands. The overall conclusion was that they loved their islands, the going-back-in-time, the beauty, the independence & the safety were all attributes to how these islands run so efficiently.

Looking at the spring, summer and autumn months for next year, I would advise booking with Prestige Holidays since the allocation is selling fast. Having met and spent time with our resident wildlife expert, Will – I truly would consider one of our Escorted Tours.

I knew this would be a special destination but it did exceed all expectations. And I am raring to visit again in the Spring since there is more of St.Marys I would like to visit as well as Bryher Island & seeing the puffins.

Contact Information

Prestige Travel a specialist for the Isles Of Scilly in the United Kingdom. Each of their holidays is tailored to your specific needs and interests. You can book Prestige Holidays with your local travel agent or contact them as below.

T: 01425 480 400
W: www.prestigeholidays.co.uk/

For more information then I suggest a visit to the Isles Of Scilly tourist information centre.

Las Vegas – Not Just a Bright Light City

By

Gill Matthews

-

19 November 2020

0

Home » Travel Blog

Las Vegas, Nevada

I’ve been fortunate to explore North America, and each visit to the USA has been a blast. From Texas to New York, road-tripping across diverse landscapes, I’ve embraced the adventures. Yet, the western charm of the original sin city, Las Vegas, is still on my travel radar.

There has never really been much of an appeal for me as I am not one for casinos or the artificial glitz. I certainly have never fancied a shotgun or an Elvis wedding or getting down to my last dollar on the strip. I kind of wish I had a whole lotta money that was ready to burn as that always makes one hell of a story.

To be fair Las Vegas is a place I would like to see, especially as it is not far from the end of Route 66… the king of all road trips. Or maybe it’s the King himself, Elvis Presley that has kept my interest in this neon flashing, one-arm bandits crashing town.

To me, Las Vegas is a place I would 100% take a detour to but I would not travel across the world specifically to see it. One person who thinks very differently is Gill Matthews from the travel agency “Not Just Travel” and here she tells us why:

Married In The Air

It’s a well-known fact that I love Las Vegas! Our first visit was for just 5 nights – we thought that would be enough time to see and do everything on our list (I always make a list for our trips). How wrong we were! We stayed at Hotel New York New York – an excellent hotel with the most comfortable bed I have ever slept in. I got married in a Maverick helicopter while flying down the strip, went to the Grand Canyon, explored all the amazing resort hotels and casinos and shopped til we dropped (literally). We packed an awful lot into our holiday but we left wanting more.

Downtown Las Vegas wasn’t on my list – apart from a quick visit to pick up a marriage license. But when we got there, we realised it was a destination in itself so we booked another holiday for the following year, this time staying downtown at Main Street Station for 11 nights. We flew premium economy with the much-missed Thomas Cook in May 2018, when the weather was beautifully hot – but not too hot, like the extreme temperatures that they get in the height of summer.

Downtown Las Vegas

Think of Vegas and no doubt you’ll conjure up an image of the bright lights of Las Vegas Boulevard (aka the strip). But actually, that’s in a town called Paradise. Take a short bus ride from the strip and you’ll arrive at Fremont Street in downtown Las Vegas – this is where it all began in 1905 when casinos and bars opened to entertain the Hoover Dam construction workers.

The Golden Gate Hotel and Casino is the oldest in Las Vegas – go in and grab a seat at Bar Prohibition, where cocktails are discreetly served in coffee mugs, just like back in the day when booze was illegal. At The Golden Nugget, see The Hand of Faith – the largest gold nugget on public display in the world, weighing in at 61 lb 11 oz, then go and jump in their swimming pool and ride a three-storey water slide through a tank of sharks!

At Binion’s, have your photograph taken with a cool $1,000,000 (for free) and fans of Back to the Future will recognise The Plaza Hotel which featured in Part 2 as “Biff’s Pleasure Paradise”.

TOP TIP: Resort fees at downtown hotels are usually cheaper than strip hotels

Evel Knievel Pizzas

Hungry? Try Maine lobster rolls, burritos or BBQ from a street truck or a slice of pizza from Evel Pie (owned by Evel Knieval’s son). For the best steak visit Triple George Grill. As well as the food, I loved the wood-panelled booths here. Or how about Oscar’s Steakhouse at The Plaza for the best view of Fremont? Buffets are good value – Main Street Station’s dinner buffet is just $14.99 and it’s fantastic.

Visit the men’s restroom here to see a huge slab of the Berlin Wall. Women can ask to be escorted in by security to see it too. For something truly unique (and calorific), visit the Heart Attack Grill for a quadruple bypass burger and flat liner fries (cooked in lard) but be warned – you’ll be spanked if you don’t clear your plate!

TOP TIP: Register for a player card in hotels for discounts at restaurants

Mind-blowing Cocktails

For drinks, head to Atomic Liquors, the oldest free-standing bar in Vegas. In the fifties, customers would sit on its roof to watch the mushroom clouds rise from atomic bomb testing while sipping “atomic cocktails”. Hogs ‘n’ Heifers Saloon is a lively bar with sassy girls who serve drinks, dance on the bar and shout at customers through megaphones – sounds like Coyote Ugly? This is the bar the film was based on.

For the best people-watching spot, go to Whiskey Licker Up. The drinks are strong and are served from a rotating bar and it’s right next to one of the live music stages on Fremont.

TOP TIP: Drink for the price of tips while gambling

Attractions Galore

Visit The Mob Museum to learn the history of organised crime then finish off with a shot of moonshine in the basement speakeasy. You could just visit the speakeasy, get the password, find the hidden door and you are in. Fly Superman-style down Fremont Street on the Slotzilla zipline. Watch the Viva Vision light and music show that runs nightly every hour. Spot all the neon signs including Vegas Vic.

Then you could see a fantastic Elvis tribute ‘Spirit of the King’ at The Four Queens. Fans of Pawn Stars can visit the Gold and Silver Pawn Shop and have a beer next door at Rick’s Rollin Smoke BBQ & Tavern (he may be behind the bar). Head down Main Street for some vintage shopping and you’ll find where a scene from The Hangover was filmed.

Hire a segway and explore. Take a ride in a driverless car. Watch a fire-breathing praying mantis at the Container Park. Get a tattoo. Get married in a drive-through wedding chapel! There’s so much to see and do!

TOP TIP: Venture off Fremont Street to experience downtown.

Viva Las Vegas

I highly recommend you explore downtown Las Vegas when you next visit. With so much to do and see, it’s perfect for families, groups of friends and couples. We felt perfectly safe and met lots of friendly people – many of whom were visiting for a long weekend.

Downtown has a different vibe to the strip – more authentic. There’s history around every corner, the gambling odds are more favourable than the strip casinos and there’s free entertainment everywhere you look. The people are friendly, the choice of quality restaurants is amazing and the entertainment is fabulous.

Contact me and I will arrange your trip so you can experience Las Vegas for yourself.

Contact Information

Gill Matthews is a Personal Travel Consultant for Not Just Travel and can be contacted for holidays to Las Vegas, the United States of America, North America and the rest of the world as follows:

T: 0784 993 0430
E: gill.matthews@notjusttravel.com

United States Of America

By

Rupert Diggins

-

18 November 2020

0

Home » Travel Blog

Introducing The United States Of America

There is no way that you can summarise the United States Of America in just a few sentences other than to say that this huge, diverse and beautiful country holds a wealth of treasures that make for amazing road trips, city breaks, beach stays, or adventure.

Accommodation ranges from dusty motels to luxurious 5 stars so there is seriously something for everyone.

I guess whenever I have visited the USA I have had to be clear about what I have wanted to achieve. I love an American Road trip. I have done three in my life – Texas to Toronto, Atlanta to Florida, and New York to Quebec and each offered something different and something very special.

The American people I have always found to be so welcoming and inviting. They love their food and their sport so immediately I have a connection.

There is so much to discover in this great country and I look forward to the day when I return and do all things the American Way.

Key Information

Continent	North America
Capital	Washington
Currency	Dollars
Language	English
Visa	FCO Advice
Vaccinations	Vaccination Advice
Tourist Office	Visit The USA

Getting Around

Amtrak is the national rail network for the United States Of America and while it is not the quickest means of travelling it does offer the chance to relax and take in some great scenery. It is not the cheapest way to travel either so pre-trip planning is required if you are considering the train.

The cheapest way to travel however is by bus and the famous Greyhound network from personal experience is superb for long-distance journeys. One word of caution is that some bus stations can be located in rougher areas of cities so make sure you have a plan on arrival.

The two most popular domestic airlines currently are Southwest and JetBlue. Air travel is a quicker way of traveling and if you book well enough in advance you can get a good deal but leave it late and you could be in for a surprise.

Car hire in the United States Of America is such a great experience with the process straightforward and the roads a dream to drive with that extra benefit of being able to go where you want. There are heaps of different car rental companies to choose from and you will need to be over 25 and have held a license for a year. Driving in the big cities can be daunting but if you are confident then there should be no issues.

Top Things To See & Do

Grand Canyon, Arizona
Formed over centuries by the Colorado River, the Grand Canyon is a steep canyon located in Arizona. It is 277 miles long and nearly 18 miles wide.

Navy Pier, Chicago
With more than 50 acres (20 hectares) of parks, shops, restaurants, and a large Ferris wheel, Navy Pier is a popular tourist spot in Chicago.

Aspen, Colorado
A must-visit whether it is for a winter ski holiday or to discover the magic of Summer in the Snow Town of Aspen.Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Along the Tennessee-North Carolina border is the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which is the most visited national park in the country.

Mount Rushmore, Keystone
Built between 1927 and 1939 the Mount Rushmore National Memorial is located in Keystone, South Dakota, and features 18-metre sculptures of the heads of four US presidents: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln.

Las Vegas
This famous 4.2-mile stretch is a popular destination for adult travellers seeking fine hotels, casinos, and entertainment often provided by iconic musical stars from the past and present.

The Hollywood Sign, Los Angeles
Located on Mount Lee in the Hollywood Hills overlooking Hollywood. The letters are 14 meters tall and are there to recognize the American cinema.

Hollywood Walk of Fame, Los Angeles
Up and down Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Street in Hollywood, California are more than 2,600 terrazzo and brass stars embedded in the sidewalks. These stars bear the names of prominent figures in the entertainment industry who have achieved a high level of success with their work.

Graceland, Memphis
The former home and now a museum dedicated to the late, great Elvis Presley. A tour will take you back over the singer’s life and I recall marvelling at the way the house and all its various themed rooms remained as it was left in the 1970s.

Grand Ole Opry, Nashville
Founded in 1925 the Grand Ole Opry is the longest-running radio broadcast in US history and is dedicated to honoring country music and musicians, from historical legends to contemporary artists.

New Orleans French Quarter
The oldest neighbourhood in New Orleans is the French Quarter. A national historic landmark and now famous for the annual Mardi Gras celebration as well as the wonderful Preservation Hall and all things Jazz.

The Statue of Liberty, New York
Located on Liberty Island in New York City this symbol of freedom is one of the USA’s most iconic sights with in recent times a museum having been opened to add to the visitor’s experience.

Empire State Building, New York
This 10-story building was named after New York, the Empire State. It is 381 metres high and has been named one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World by the American Society of Civil Engineers.

Times Square, New York
Times Square is the most visited place in the world and the second most visited tourist attraction after the Las Vegas Strip. The entertainment centre is located in the Midtown Manhattan area of New York.

Brooklyn Bridge, New York
The Brooklyn Bridge is a National Historic Landmark that connects the boroughs of Manhattan and Brooklyn. The bridge has a wide pedestrian walkway that you can cross while walking above the traffic crossing below.

Long Island, New York
A must-visit for wine lovers is the area of Long Island, New York

Disney World, Orlando
Opened in 1971 near Orlando, Florida. This resort was every child’s dream to visit in the ’70s and probably still is today with its theme and water parks. There is Magic Kingdom, Epcot, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom.

Alcatraz Island, San Francisco
This small island prison which opened in 1934 is across from San Francisco and where Al Capone was imprisoned. During the 29 years when it was open, no prisoner escaped despite countless attempts.

Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco
Positioned between San Francisco Bay and the Pacific Ocean is the Golden Gate Bridge, which spans the Golden Gate Strait at 1280 meters high.

The White House, Washington
The official Washington DC residence of the US president. Tours are possible however they need to be organized some time in advance and through your country’s embassy to ensure approval

Lincoln Memorial, Washington DC
Built to honour President Abraham Lincoln, the Lincoln Memorial is located across from the Washington Monument in Washington, DC. The memorial was the site of Martin Luther King Jr’s “I Have a Dream” speech, which he gave in 1963.

Pre-bookable Excursions in the USA

More Information

Visit The USA provides a wide choice of useful information including places to go, things to do and what you can expect from the weather.

Why not also check out my guest blogs Alaska The Final Frontier and The Small Towns of Washington State

A Tour Of Captivating Costa Rica

By

Victoria Jones

-

18 November 2020

0

Home » Travel Blog

Beautiful Costa Rica

As destination appeal goes, I have to say beautiful Costa Rica is right up there. A country that is leading the way in climate change with plans to go carbon neutral in 2021….. yes that is right … next year!

Further reasons to love this Central American gem is that it is a peace-loving nation having ditched its army back in the late forties. You can also stay in a converted 727 airliner, you can witness sea turtles hatching, there is white water rafting, it is home to incredible wildlife, beautiful beaches, rainforests, coral reefs and if that is not enough, they can also serve up one of the best cups of coffee in the world.

With direct flights from the UK now on offer it is easily accessible as Victoria Jones from Kinver Travel in the West Midlands discovered last year on a week tour of the country with tour operator Mercury Holidays.

I am already sold but if you need to be convinced further then here is her blog summarising her wonderful adventure.

Paradise On Earth

Last year I had the pleasure of visiting one of the most ecologically diverse places on earth and a nature-lover’s paradise – the stunning country of Costa Rica.

This natural, rugged country enjoys the unique natural gift of coastlines on both the Caribbean and Pacific oceans. It is best known for its beaches, volcanoes and biodiversity with roughly a quarter of its area made up of protected jungle which is teeming with wildlife.

With a time difference of – 7 hours, San Jose, the capital of Costa Rica is an 11-hour flight from London Gatwick on British Airways and one of the most popular destinations in Central America. The best time to visit tends to be when it’s driest and brightest; between December and April on its Pacific coast, and between March and September on the Caribbean side. If Costa Rica’s abundant wildlife is a must-see during your trip; avoid the heavier rainfall in September and October. As a little tip, it is always best to carry bug spray and suntan lotion.

Costa Rica’s food embraces a world of flavours; the unique dishes are simple but delicious. The Casado is the most traditional meal; it includes white rice, beans, plantains, picadillo, salad and meat. The gallo pinto is a favourite breakfast dish and comprises rice and beans prepared with onion, celery, and spices and is sometimes accompanied by scrambled eggs.

San Jose

San José provides a wonderful array of activities and attractions including beautiful architecture, a bustling nightlife and a wealth of history and culture to enjoy. These include museums such as the pre-Colombian Gold Museum and also the Jade Museum. As well as this there are art galleries, parks and some excellent restaurants.

Our first night was spent at the Radisson Park Inn in San Jose with stunning views over the vibrant city.

Tortuguero National Park

On our first full day, we travelled by road and boat to Tortuguero National Park on the Caribbean coast staying at Pachira Lodge. This is an ideal base to get out and experience the diverse range of flora and fauna. A fantastic way to throw yourself into Costa Rican life and to start exploring is to book a canal trip with the chance of seeing monkeys, iguanas, sloths, crocodiles, macaw wild orchids and more.

We were lucky enough to add on a visit to the beach at night to look for nesting turtles. This is strictly governed and numbers limited but so worth it. We saw a green sea turtle making a nest and laying her eggs, and newly hatched baby turtles making a mad dash to the sea. A truly remarkable experience that I will never forget. Sadly but understandably no photos are allowed as this would disorientate the sea turtles but what a memory.

After a full day of exploring, your bed is so welcome but prepare yourselves to be rudely awoken in the morning by the howler monkies!

Alajuela

We travelled on to our third hotel the Buena Vista Hotel in Alajuela overlooking the mountains and volcanos of Poas, Barba and Irazi en route over to the Pacific coast This is a really lovely property nestled on the hillside set amid a coffee plantation.

We spent the morning at La Paz Waterfall Gardens which is the number one most visited privately owned ecological attraction in Costa Rica. It is not a zoo, as these are forbidden here, but an animal sanctuary and rescue centre for wild animals, with over 100 species and an environmental education program.

Arenal

Our next destination towards the Pacific coast was to be Arenal but on our way, we visited the Arenal 1968 trail which is a private reserve where you can see the lava flow remains that has been there since 1968. Also here there are various opportunities to see wildlife as well as the beautiful Los Patos Lake with the best view of the Arenal Volcano.

We stayed at the beautiful “Springs Resort and Spa Hotel” which as the name suggests boasts hot spring pools, rich in minerals and irons.

Monteverde

We then travelled onward to Monteverde to the El Establo Mountain Hotel for what was another amazing day. This hotel’s story is of a family who changed their cattle farm business to tourism.

We visited an organic coffee farm on the way, and I did my first ever zip wire over the jungle canopy (O.M.G!!), then the next day another amazing experience visiting the cloud forest and walking across hanging bridges.

Punta Leona

Our last few nights we stayed at Punta Leona Hotel which has a spectacular location, right on the beach in the district of Tárcoles, just 60 minutes from the city of San José. The wildlife is once again abundant here with regular sightings of macaw parrots, parakeets, monkeys and raccoons.

Not far is the Manuel Antonio National Park. Nearly 700 hectares in size and boasting a coast with white sandy beaches, coral reefs and mountains with rainforests. There are great opportunities here to hike and explore an area that is renowned for its vast diversity of tropical plants and wildlife.

If you are planning a Costa Rica holiday, one term you should be familiar with is “Pura Vida” (pronounces poo-rah vee-dah). Simply translated, it means “simple life” or “pure life”, but in Costa Rica, it is more than just a saying—it is a way of life.

What To Pack

We were touring the country staying in multiple locations so as an indication of what to pack I would suggest :

Sunscreen, Insect Repellent and a hat
Waterproof lightweight jacket
Comfortable walking shoes
Lightweight clothing (jeans are not recommended)
Sweater
Swimwear
Camera and charger
Small day pack for hikes/treks
Lightweight/travel towel
A plug adaptor – the electricity supply is 120 volts and 2 or 3 flat pin plugs
Binoculars
Personal first aid kit containing travel pills, re-hydration powder, plasters, stomach settlers, antiseptic creams, aspirin etc

Contact Information

Kinver Travel is an award-winning travel agency based near Stourbridge in the West Midlands.

If you are looking to head to beautiful Costa Rica or Central America or anywhere else for that matter, give the team a call today.

Kinver Travel
42 High Street,
Kinver,
DY7 6HF

T: 01384 873819
W: www.kinvertravelcentre.co.uk/

Getting Active In The Secret Iceland

By

Rannveig Snorradóttir

-

16 November 2020

0

Home » Travel Blog

Secret Iceland

As more and more blogs are landing in my inbox I am loving people’s desire to showcase the unusual, the inspiring, and the off-the-beaten-track places where your normal run-of-the-mill tourist rarely sets foot. Certainly, some of my best memories from travelling over the years have not been in the guidebooks!

Now if I had been a betting man I would have said that visitors to Iceland from the UK would have increased dramatically in recent years, especially given the apparent surge in regional charter flights from the UK but I was wrong as in 2019 numbers were down.

I feel this could be just a brief downward trend as in 2021/22 I reckon people are going to travel multiple times with one of those trips demanding a short flight, unique experiences, breathtaking scenery and health-benefiting activities. If you wrap that all up in a little 3 to 7-day package then Iceland will certainly tick the box for many – myself included!

Rannveig Snorradottir is the Managing Director of Obeo Travel – an Iceland and Namibia specialist destination management company with her range of ground services available through travel agents in the UK. I am delighted that Rannveig got in touch to highlight a side of Secret Iceland that will be new to many of us.

Let’s hear what she had to say.

Far From The Bright Lights

Secret Iceland is such a magical place. While most people have certainly heard of the Blue Lagoon and the Golden Circle, I would like to write about the lesser-known parts of the country – including some of my favourite activities.

The winter offers an opportunity to experience the incredible Aurora Borealis, or the Northern Lights, and to experience this natural phenomenon you will want to leave the city centre to avoid the light pollution. This does not mean you cannot stay in the city though, as you can choose between coach, super jeep and cruise options to take you out to the best places and conditions to view this incredible sight.

A Land Of Fire & Ice

Icelanders are a wild bunch of people which you might blame on the many months the country is in darkness. Locals will use every opportunity to be creative and find interesting ways for you to enjoy Iceland‘s incredible nature. Some of the funniest moments I have experienced were exploring the black sandy beaches, incredible mountains, the variety of glaciers and the abundance of hiking routes and waterfalls that this breathtaking country has to offer.

Leaving the city behind, head along the South Coast to see Seljalandsfoss (walk behind it!) and Skogafoss, some of Iceland‘s most impressive waterfalls. Upon arrival in Vik, you‘ll find an incredible team of expert glacier guides to take you to some of the ice caves in the area. You first board one of the super jeeps which are certainly Icelandic men‘s toys and the best way to negotiate much of Iceland‘s tough terrain.

This off-the-beaten-track experience will take you to the base of Katla volcano, which is one of Iceland‘s biggest volcanoes and way overdue an eruption – this thought only adds to the adventure of the day. Here you will put on crampons and walk towards some ice caves which you will safely explore with an expert guide. This is just one amazing experience in this country known as the land of fire and ice!

Activities With A View

Another favourite is to enjoy the popular SUP, or “stand-up paddleboard”, in one of Iceland‘s hidden fjords. I had never tried a SUP before joining a trip and was worried my balance would not allow me to enjoy the experience but I was certainly wrong. You can sit, stay on your knees, or stand – whatever makes you most comfortable while floating in the water surrounded by breathtaking Icelandic nature.

Did you know that you can Snowmobile on an Icelandic Glacier all year round? As part of an amazing adventure on Iceland’s Golden Circle route, you can meet a trusted guide at the parking lot of Gullfoss. There you will jump on an eight-wheeler monster truck to take you on a 45-minute transfer to the base on Langjökull Glacier!

Once at the base, you are provided with overalls, a helmet, gloves, and balaclava and you will receive a safety briefing before heading off. The snowmobile tour takes around 1 hour driving on an Icelandic Glacier and because it’s a glacier this activity is available all year round! Two guests share a snowmobile and take turns driving. Something to note is that a valid driver’s license is required but children, aged 6 and over, are welcome to sit with you. You will never forget this highly recommended experience.

Puffins & Beer

The Northern part of Iceland has some of the best attractions the country has to offer including volcanic pseudo craters, natural hot springs, waterfalls and get this: beer baths! Some Icelanders figured out that the herbs in beer provide excellent remedies to the skin. While soaking in wonderful, warm, beer, fill up your beer glass with your private draft located right next to your tub (the bathing beer is non-alcoholic, but the draft is not!)

The ultimate hidden gem of Iceland is without a doubt the Westfjords. If you want to see some of Iceland‘s most breathtaking scenery while feeling alone in the world, this is a place to explore. The Westfjords, as the name says, allow to you explore magnificent fjord landscapes, and some places like nowhere else in the world – like the awe-inspiring Dynjandi waterfall, Latrabjarg bird cliffs (get up real close to the puffins!) or Hornstrandir nature reserve which is every hikers paradise.

Iceland is a constant surprise, even to seasoned travellers – trust me, I‘m Icelandic and the country still blows me away.

Contact Information

Our thanks to Rannveig Snorradottir the Managing Director of Obeo Travel for her blog and her wonderful photos of what is a very special European country – Secret Iceland.

If you want to know more you can contact their team or simply get in touch with your local travel agent who can book Iceland with Obeo Travel.

W: www.obeo-travel.com

Introducing the United Kingdom

Key Information

Getting Around

Top Places To See & Things to Do

Pre-bookable Excursions in the United Kingdom

More Information

The Isles Of Scilly, UK

Opportunity Knocks

Getting Around The Isles Of Scilly

St Martins

St Agnes

Tresco Island

Food For Thought

Accommodation

Exceeding Expectations

Contact Information

Las Vegas, Nevada

Married In The Air

Downtown Las Vegas

Evel Knievel Pizzas

Mind-blowing Cocktails

Attractions Galore

Viva Las Vegas

Contact Information

Introducing The United States Of America

Key Information

Getting Around

Top Things To See & Do

Pre-bookable Excursions in the USA

More Information

Beautiful Costa Rica

Paradise On Earth

San Jose

Tortuguero National Park

Alajuela

Arenal

Monteverde

Punta Leona

What To Pack

Contact Information

Secret Iceland

Far From The Bright Lights

A Land Of Fire & Ice

Activities With A View

Puffins & Beer

Contact Information

EDITOR PICKS

POPULAR POSTS

POPULAR CATEGORY