Southport Still Has Something!

Southport is a prosperous town in the north west of England. Its Victorian charm means that is has maintained its status as one of the most popular seaside resorts and today is still a fabulous place for a trip. A self-catering cottage in the UK makes the perfect place to stay on a trip to Southport, by day take in what the north of England has to offer and by night sit back and make yourself at home in front of a log fire.

Southport has been attracting visitors to its beach since 1792 when the first hotel in the town was built. During the nineteenth century the town became popular with tourists who could travel to Southport via canal from places like Liverpool. Later on, the building of the railway meant that more and more people could come from further and further away meaning that Southport grew really quickly to be much more like the town it is today. Nowadays, the legacy of Southport’s Victorian past is visible all over the town centre. In the main shopping street, tree lined Lord Street, the Victorian architecture is clear to see and it’s a great place for an afternoon of shopping.

Lord Street, Southport flickr photos

No trip to seaside Southport would be complete without a walk (or ride) down the pier. Southport’s pier is the second longest pier in the UK which even has a tramway down the middle of it to take visitors from one end to the other. At the end of the pier is an old fashioned amusement arcade that only accepts old pre decimalisation coins, a little nostalgic trip into the past that is really lots of fun.

Southport Air Show flickr photos

One thing to note about Southport is how far the sand reaches out with no sea. On a clear day when the tide is out it seems perfectly plausible that you could walk the six miles along the sand to Blackpool. It is in fact impossible although people try every year and end up needing to be rescued from the quick sand.

Southport Air Show flickr

Away from its seaside heritage, Southport also holds various shows and events throughout the year including the Southport Flower Show and the Air Show. In 2012 the Southport Flower Show will be taking place between the 16th and 19th August and is the largest independent flower show in the UK attracting tourists all around the UK. This year the annual Southport Air Show will be celebrating its 21st birthday. The event attracts tens of thousands of spectators each year to see many different types of aircraft flying across the skies above Southport.

Planning For You Trip- Things To Remember

The spring weather is getting friendlier now and summer in Europe is almost coming. I believed many of you would love to get out and relax for awhile and want to go away from the corners of your workplace or home. Some might be planning for summer trips in any destinations in Europe or even worldwide.

I love to travel and from the many experiences that I gathered during my trips, I would love to share some things to remember when you are planning to go for a holiday.

Plan Your Trip Ahead- You are very lucky if you can get some really cheap last minute holidays. This is the reason why you need to plan your trip ahead in order for you to save time and money. Besides you can also avoid stress and hassles when your trip is planned ahead. If you are planning to go for a group trip especially bus trips, it is better to book it ahead to get your desired seats on the bus. Sometimes if you book it earlier, you also get discounts.


Book Flights and Hotels in Advance- I remember our Europe trip last 2010. A friend from the United States of America visited me in Europe and we explored some cities and countries here. We booked our flights and hotels five months before and we truly saved a lot of money from it.

Travellers who are planning to explore Europe have advantage now because there are a lot of low-cost airlines that offers cheap flights to many European destinations. Easyjet, virgin atlantic, Ryanair, Air Berlin, Wizz Air, Vueling and German Wings are only some of these. Booking a flybe flight is also very convenient and affordable.

There are also a lot of travel sites online who offer all sorts of accommodation depending on your type and budget.

Bring The Most Important Things You Need- Do you know anybody who forgot to bring his/her Identification card or passport when he/she is already lining-up on the check-in area at the airport. This can be a worst thing you do. Always check your bag or wallet since an ID card or a passport is a very indispensable document when you travel. If you are taking medication, always bring it with you.

If you want to document your travel, bringing journal papers or notebook and pens are a must. Taking pictures with your cameras will surely bring you a lot of travel memories. Whatever things that are very important for you to bring, be sure to have it in your luggage the day or week before you leave.

Cruising the Med

From package holidays and cheap flights to backpacking, there are many ways to explore the Mediterranean. But for those who like to discover new places without the hassle of getting from A to B, cruise holidays could be just the ticket.

Most cruise holidays are based on an all inclusive basis which means flights, accommodation, meals and snacks are all included - so all you have to do is turn up at the airport and the rest is all taken care of. It’s one of the best and most stress-free ways to discover a range of different destinations whilst enjoying the journey too: what better way to travel from Portugal to Montenegro, or Croatia to Italy, than sunning yourself on deck? What’s more, much of the longer journeys between ports are undertaken at night so you can literally wake up in an exciting new destination each morning.

One of the most popular itineraries is a Mediterranean cruise - and it’s not hard to see why. From Spain to Portugal, Venice to Dubrovnik, these cruises are the perfect way for holidaymakers to see the Med in a truly laid-back and stress-free environment. Forget trying to drive on the right or work out the local public transport: when it comes to exploring the Mediterranean without needing a holiday afterwards, this is how it’s done.

During your trip you will have the opportunity to take in the sights and sounds of some of the world’s most beautiful and vibrant cities and picture-perfect beach destinations. But on top of that you’ll also get to make the most of the ship’s top-notch facilities. Whether you’re into relaxing spa treatments, a night at the flicks or if you prefer to be thoroughly entertained with the help of some professional Broadway-style entertainment, when it comes to cruise holidays there’s certainly something for everyone.

Mountain Bike Holidays: Enjoy the Ride

A mountain biking holiday offers a great opportunity to explore some exciting and beautiful destinations in a way that’s impossible to do by car.

Whether a gentle cruise through a rural landscape suits you, or something more challenging such as off-roading or hill riding, Neilson has amazing mountain bike holidays to suit every ability and inclination.

For Adrenalin Junkies

Those who believe in the motto ‘go hard or go home’ will love getting stuck into an amazing eight day Austrian activity holiday. You can cycle through stunning Austrian mountain scenery, taking in the Otztaler river and some magnificent views.

When you’re beginning to feel saddle-sore, why not change tack and try your hand at one of the other great activities offered, including rafting, canyoning, trekking, paragliding and more. Activity adventure holidays are what Neilson does best, so you can be sure of only the best facilities, equipment and instruction staff.

When it comes to relaxing at the end of an exciting day, guests have the choice of staying in the Nature Resort rooms and apartments, which are furnished with all modern creature comforts.

Or, for more privacy and something that bit different, you can choose an Adventure Cottage. These natural wood ‘A frame’ tent style structures have bed space for two to three people, with shared toilet and showering facilities nearby.

For Easy Riders

Those who prefer to take it easy when mountain biking will love getting on their bike in Selva in the heart of the Dolomiti mountain range, Italy. With cycle paths and routes to suit all levels of ability, this area is an absolute joy to explore by bike, with breathtaking scenery at every turn.

There are also many lifts that will accept bikes, so that you can take advantage of the spectacular mountain vistas without doing a hard, uphill slog.

Whether you’re an easy rider or an adrenalin junkie, Neilson has mountain bike holidays to suit. Simply speak to a Neilson advisor and prepare to enjoy the ride.

If mountain biking is not your thing check out a scooter from stuntscootersmart.com .

Family Holidays for Every Budget: From Cheap Ibiza Holidays to Florida Breaks

Planning a summer family holiday that fits your budget can be costly. Whether you are looking at 2012 Florida holidays or cheap Ibiza holidays, there’s a destination to suit every family’s pocket.

Ibiza

If your budget is small but your dreams are big, look online for cheap Ibiza holidays. Known for its lively night scene, Ibiza has made a successful attempt in recent years to make main resorts family friendly.

For an active family break with watersports, playgrounds and beautiful beaches Playa Den Bossa is the place to go. Older teens in the family will be happy with the resort's selection of bars and clubs, while the younger children will be more than happy with the vast amount of activities on offer.

Cala Llonga is the perfect setting for a relaxing family holiday. Its shallow waters, snorkelling opportunities and calming ambiance are perfect for parents who want to kick back while the kids splash in the sea.

Cyprus

Mid budget breaks with the brood are well spent in Cyprus.

Protaras, just outside the lively resort of Ayia Napa, lies in complete juxtaposition to its neighbour. Located near to a selection of shops and eateries, set on stunning beaches, including Flamingo Bay and Fig Tree Bay, Portaras is a child friendly place to stay.

With Ayia Napa in close proximity, visits to waterparks are also on the cards.

Florida

When you’ve got a big budget to blow, there’s nowhere better than to spend it than on 2012 Florida holidays. The last three years have seen some major additions to the Orlando area meaning that the resort is bigger and better than ever.

As well as the long standing must-sees, Disney and Universal Studios, families must experience The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and the brand new LEGOLAND® Florida.

Whether you’re looking at Cheap Ibiza Holidays or Florida breaks, search online for the best deals to suit all travel budgets.

Family Holiday Deals to Majorca

Majorca is a great value holiday destination that’s perfect for families on a budget this year. Fantastic all inclusive packages and some cheap last minute holiday deals mean that it’s easy to find your ideal family holiday for 2012 without blowing the budget.

You can find all inclusive Majorca holidays to all of the island’s main resorts, with some really special hotels to choose from, including:

Bouganvilla Park, Sa Coma

The Bouganvilla Park hotel in laid-back Sa Coma is a great choice for those who love to spend lots of time having fun in, or relaxing around, the pool on holiday.

With five outdoor swimming pools, every member of the family is sure to find a favourite place to enjoy a splash or a swim.

While the kids enjoy the pool complex, or the fun Kidsworld facilities, Mum and Dad can enjoy some quiet time relaxing on the sun terrace.

This hotel is also special because it offers a range of accommodation to suit all families. You can choose from a studio, one bedroom or two bedroom apartment, with up to six people accommodated comfortably.

A Beach in Majorca, Spain

Mimosa Park, Palma Nova

This lively hotel in vibrant Palma Nova is perfectly located just 500 metres from the beach, making it ideal for families who like to be in the heart of the action.

When you choose to stay at the Mimosa Park hotel you can enjoy the three stunning Palma Nova beaches, the marina and the seafront promenade as a family, before returning to your nearby hotels to enjoy the pool, your meals, snacks and drinks, sports facilities and a wide entertainment programme.

There are many family friendly hotels to choose from in Majorca, offering great value all inclusive packages and fantastic prices on late deals, so that you can have an amazing family break, without breaking the bank.

Postcard from Hofbräuhaus Munich

Have you been to Munich? If you are planning to visit Bavaria's capital city in the future, I would suggest you to visit Hofbräuhaus. It is a brewery in Munich, Germany owned by the Bavarian state government. Better go inside and if possible try Bavarian cuisine and of course its own brewed beer.

I have been to this famous brewery and restaurant twice and if I still have the chance in the future, I would surely go back again. Most of the times, it is full of guests and visitors inside. You can be very lucky if you will get a table immediately. During Oktoberfest, expect it to be fully crowded.

I will share some images I took from inside of Hofbräuhaus. I still have to find it in my files.

A postcard I bought during my second visit in Hofbräuhaus in Munich.