Best Family Camping Sites in the UK

If you are just like every other family in the UK, you most likely will admit that traveling is one of the most enjoyable activities out there. However, camping is actually one of the most popular activities in the area and so you should really find the best places for camping in the UK.

Here are some of the best places for camping that you can find in the United Kingdom.

Beach Camping Sites

• Scotland

The Clachtoll Beach in Scotland is one of the nicest campsites that you will find in the West Coast of Scotland. The sun beautifully shines on the beach and the soft sands shimmer white. However, you will need to bring a very strong tent because the winds can be quite strong.

• Cae Du, Wales

This is a beautiful spot to simply get away from it all. This is an ideal spot that gives everyone the best views in the area. If all you are looking for is a break and to go camping with a beautiful sea view, then you will need to check out the Cae Du beach.

• Troytown Farm, Isles of Scilly

Troytown Farm is the place where you will see the best panoramic backdrop. You will see beautiful rock formations and landscapes that will be the best that you will find in the area. Though it might be a long trip, it is definitely worth it on a holiday. With amazing campfires, this is a top spot in the Isles Of Scilly.

• Kintra Farm, Scotland

This is a short ferry ride from the Mull Of Kintyre and it sits on the Isle Of Islay. This is easily one of the nicest regions in Scotland and the nice thing about Kintra Farm is that the views are among the best in the world. This is certainly a beach that you can go to even if you are not looking to go camping. Just simply go to the dips and pitch down a tent. You will have beautiful coastal views and the overall experience cannot be compared to anything else.

• Three Cliffs Bay, Wales

This is easily the nicest campsite that you will ever find in the Gowner Peninsula. There are beautiful rock formations that cannot be found anywhere else in the UK and you will see the distinctive silhouette that truly exhibits how nice the area is. This place has been named the "best view in Wales" and certainly serves as a great place to visit no matter what your reason is. You simply cannot forget your camera when it comes to the Three Cliffs Bay.

If you are serious about being able to finally enjoy the best campsite in the UK, then you should think about visiting these areas. The UK is full of campsites of all types and you will definitely be able to find the best ones. Most people will admit that the UK is the best place for camping and so you should really keep this in mind. The nice thing about the UK is that you will see that the different campsites have something different to give and so this is certainly a reason why you need to visit the UK.

The United Kingdom is not necessarily known for their campsites and so you will only find a few places that will really capture your attention. Take your time to find the best campsite for you and your family and you will definitely have a great time.

About Author:

Diane Magruder is a hotel and resort reviewer and, while she's in between destinations is a freelance blogger for lakecomo.org.uk where you can look up 5 star hotels in Lake Como. If you're interested in visiting Lake Como she suggests checking out their Guide to Varenna for a great place to stay.

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Top 5 Road Trips

There’s something liberating about planning a road trip - it ignites a sense of adventure and free spirit.

There are many cult stories about impulsive mavericks hitting the road: Jack Kerouac’s On the Road, Ridley Scott’sThelma & Louise and Hunter S. Thompson’s Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas. Why not pluck a leaf out of their books and throw caution to the wind? Forget small group tours, hire a car and explore your country of choice independently. Only the best experiences spring from the unexpected.

Heathrow parking specialists, Purple Parking has put together its top five self-drive destinations, popular for their superb scenery, vibrant culture and sheer wow factor. Wind the windows down, feel the exotic breeze on your face and enjoy!

CUBA: for culture vultures

Cuba is a unique and fascinating Caribbean island pulsating with colour and passion. It’s famed for its salsa, vintage cars, cigars and of course, its revolutionary spirit. Make sure you book some home stays (casas paticulares) as it is a great way to meet Cuban families along the way. When driving through Cuba, make sure you ask for directions and take a compass and decent map as there are few road signs. Make sure you stop off at the following:

• Havana. You will be charmed by the crumbling splendor of the capital city of Havana. Although not conventionally beautiful, its eclectic culture gives the city an air of romance as vintage cars drive past shimmering colonial palaces. This place is not contrived for tourism, it is refreshingly authentic.
• Trinidad. Wander the cobbled streets of colonial Trinidad and admire the impressive churches, museums and public squares. When you get tired, relax in one of the bars, enjoy the Cuban music and sample the traditional sugarcane drink, Guarapo.
• Varadero. Ideal for beach-lovers, the white sands of Varadero will not fail to disappoint. The turquoise waters are crystal clear and warm and the sunsets are incredible – perfect to enjoy with a relaxing rum.
• Baracoa. The unspoiled colonial village of Baracoa has secluded beaches, rainforest and a flat-topped mountain. The colourful but weathered buildings add to its charm. Amid the rich vegetation you can find cocoa trees which make the white chocolate Baracoa is famous for.

COASTAL CALIFORNIA: for party people

This is where America meets the big blue Pacific, thousand-foot cliffs plunge into the sea, the world’s tallest trees cling to hillsides and huge waves beckon enticingly to the surf-crazed. California is huge; exploring by car will help you reach more of the remote spots. For the ultimate road trip, check out the following:

• San Francisco. Welcome to America’s most liberal city. Join the locals for a street party, eat like a king at the vast array of cafes, sail to see Alcatraz, spot whales from Point Reyes and watch eagles soar over Golden Gate.
• Santa Cruz. In funky town Santa Cruz you will find surfers, nudists, tree-huggers and punks living together in radical harmony. Make sure you visit the famous beach boardwalk, its amusement park rides and sweet shops will appeal to kids and adults alike.
• Santa Barbara vineyards. Head inland for just a few miles and you’ll find yourself in some of the world’s greatest wine-growing regions. The hills above Santa Barbara have a high concentration of wineries where you can try a sumptuous pinot noir and a smooth merlot.
• Hearst Castle. Don’t miss the ostentatious Hearst Castle at San Simeon. This sprawling estate, built by newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst, has 127 acres of landscaped gardens, shimmering pools and statues from ancient Greece and Moorish Spain.

SOUTH AFRICA: for wildlife enthusiasts

South Africa is everything you ever dreamed of. Nature lovers and adventurers alike will be blown away by the 3,500 kilometres of stunning coastline, abundance of National Parks, unique wildlife encounters and world-class surf and shark cage diving experiences. This country is popular for self-drive holidays as the landscape is so diverse. It also has some fabulous wine tasting trails and incredibly warm people. Don’t miss out on:

• Cape Town. It is a thriving cosmopolitan city that enjoys great weather all year round. A creative melting pot, Cape Town has a fantastic dining scene, busy nightlife, sunny beaches and great shopping – and all this is set against the breathtaking backdrop of Table Mountain.
• The Garden Route. This is a gorgeous stretch of the south-eastern coast which features mountains, lakes, tall indigenous forests, amber-coloured rivers and golden beaches. Bright wild flowers illuminate your journey and you can indulge in every kind of adventure activity along the way.
  • Cape Winelands. Wine-lovers must book a trip to the picturesque Cape Winelands, divided into six main wine regions. You can book a range of dine and vine tours, with wines ranging from sumptuous Rhone reds to perfumed Sauvignon Blancs.
  • Game Reserves. South Africa has a huge collection of wildlife regions, game parks, nature reserves, bush camps and lodges. If you’re looking to spot the Big Five in all their glory, you will be spoilt for choice. Popular reserves include: Kruger Park, Sabi Sands and Shamwari Game Reserve.

ICELAND: for adventurers

Known as the ‘land of fire and ice’, Iceland is home to geographical phenomena and incredible landscapes. Here you will see lava flows, icecaps, deep fjords, geysers and hot springs. This magical country offers a variety of experiences and it is worth hiring a sturdy car to deal with slightly rougher terrain. if you’re lucky you may get the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see killer whales and the awesome Northern Lights. Highlights include:

• Reykjavik. The capital of Iceland is a must-see, whether you go in the eternal sunshine of summer or never-ending night of winter. It has a quirky and creative culture and a kicking music scene, topped off with snow-topped mountains and incredible thermal pools.
• Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss. These are two of the most famous waterfalls in Iceland and must be seen to be believed. The waterfall spray produces stunning rainbows in the right light and there is a pathway leading behind Seljalandsfoss, allowing you to view it from within.
• Snaefellsnes Peninsula. Snaefellsjokull glacier lies on this Peninsula, which is steeped in history and well-loved by Icelanders; some of the most important sagas took place here. The majestic silhouette can be seen from afar and the entire landscape is brimming with hot springs, lava caves and waterfalls.
• Golden Circle. Three of Iceland’s greatest natural wonders can all be visited in one day: the Geysir hot springs area, the mighty Gullfoss Waterfall and historical Thingvellir National Park.  Often called the ‘Golden Circle’, these attractions offer fabulous opportunities for the budding photographer.

NEW ZEALAND: for outdoor lovers

Much of New Zealand is pristine and untouched. A car will enable you to visit those harder to reach places, and then there are some spectacular walks and bike rides which will take you even further off the beaten track to reveal the natural beauty of the landscape and pure quality of the air. You can also learn about and meet the indigenous Maori people who have a strong influence on New Zealand culture. Wildlife is abundant here and nature lovers can watch whales, dolphins, kiwis and the protected colonies of royal albatross and penguins. Places worth a visit include:

• Auckland. The largest and most multicultural of New Zealand’s cities is a blend of islands, harbor and Polynesian culture and stretches from one side of the country to the other. Known as the ‘city of sails’, you’re never far from the wild surf and beautiful beaches.
• Bay of Islands. The first European settlers arrived in the Bay of Islands and forged relationships with the Maoris. There are 144 islands, each with its own unique culture. You can enjoy a sub-tropical climate while exploring one of the many nature walks here.
• Coromandel Peninsula. This is an ideal place to unwind with hundreds of natural hideaways waiting to be explored. The sparkling blue waters, white sandy beaches and rainforests make it a hard place to leave.
• Kaikoura. For an unforgettable experience, head to Kaikoura to catch a glimpse of the huge sperm whales, dolphins and orcas which are often seen in the water off the peninsula. Nestled on the rugged East Coast of New Zealand’s South Island, Kaikoura offers stunning coastal alpine scenery.

Wherever you go, make sure you research the country’s driving rules and regulations. Here are some of the most important things to read up on before you drive overseas http://www.purpleparking.com/travel-advice/driving-abroad

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National Gallery London

London is known worldwide to be a Mecca for art lovers; from Classical Greek sculpture to the most eccentric modern art, it’s all available in London. Michelangelo, Turner, Constable, Vermeer, Caravaggio, Emin and Hirst are all featured in the galleries featured below. Our advice is to not try to visit all of these galleries in one trip – that would be overload. Instead, pick a couple that you think might interest you, and combine a visit there with a visit to another great London attraction. That way, you can take in the art you see and don’t get overloaded.
So here’s a few of the best and most famous art galleries in London:
1) National Gallery – Located in a dominating position just off Trafalgar Square, The National Gallery is probably the biggest and most famous Art Gallery in London, and indeed the UK. Worldwide, it is eclipsed perhaps only by The Louvre in Paris, or the Museum of Modern Art in New York. The museum contains a fabulous collection of Western European painting from 1250-1900, and contains works by Botticelli, Da Vinci, Rembrandt, Gainsborough, Turner, Renoir, Cezanne and Van Gogh. Gallery entrance is free, but there are charges for special exhibitions. The National Gallery says how a trip to the gallery can involve: “being inspired, learning about art, relaxing, meeting, lunching and shopping.” Nearest tube: Westminster.

2) National Portrait Gallery – Located in the same huge building as the National Gallery, this gallery contains the world’s largest selection of portraits and faces, from early medieval times to today. The gallery contains pictures of people from a vast number of fields, including politics, the arts, business, showbiz and religious figures. The current main exhibition is a series of portraits by Lucien Freud. The gallery is open daily from 10am to 6pm. Free entry.

Tate Britain

3) Tate Britain – Tate Britain holds the largest collection of British art in the world. Its galleries show art from 1500 to today, from late medieval works to modern and contemporary art. Tate’s collection includes masterpieces by British artists such as Hogarth, Gainsborough, Constable, Millais, Burne Jones, Whistler, Sargent, Sickert, Hepworth and Bacon. The current main exhibition is “Picasso and British Art” – “A rare opportunity to see Picasso’s legacy and influence on British art.” Opening hours 10am – 6pm. Nearest tube is Pimlico.

4) Tate Modern – This gallery contains the best in British modern and contemporary art. Its located just down the river from the Tate Britain. The current exhibition is notably a Damien Hirst retrospective featuring all of Hirst’s notable works to date, including his famous shark in formaldehyde, titled “The Physical Impossibility of Death in the Mind of Someone Living.” The theme of death runs through Hirst’s introspective display, and been seen to the key to unlocking Hirst’s work. There are plenty of things to do in Tate modern, including taking a guided tour, enjoying the displays, using the multimedia guides, plus learning to sketch in the gallery. Admission to Tate Modern is free, and the gallery is open 10am-6pm. Nearest tube is Pimlico.

5) Royal Academy of Arts – This well respected institution describes itself on its website thus: “The Royal Academy of Arts has a unique position of being an independent, privately funded institution led by eminent artists and architects, whose purpose is to promote the creation, enjoyment and appreciation of the visual arts through exhibitions, education and debate.” The British artist David Hockney has an exhibition of his colourful works currently at the gallery. As with most London galleries, many of the permanent galleries are free, with there being a fee for the special exhibitions. The gallery is open 10am – 6pm, the nearest tube is Piccadilly Circus.

Royal Academy of Arts

Quick Move Now are one of the leading property buyers in the UK. They pay up to 90% of the market value and can turn around in 7 days.

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You've got the time off work.

You've bookmarked all the good travel websites.

You've had your passport renewed.

Your family/friends/mental health has been begging for a vacation for the past 6 months.

But where should you go? Deciding on a vacation spot isn't always easy. There are so many places to choose from and the options can be overwhelming at times. To help streamline the process and get you on your way sooner, here are five questions to point you in the direction of your dream vacation sooner rather than later.

Who?

The people you are going to be traveling with dictates a great deal about your vacation destination. Are you traveling with girlfriends? Your family and children? Maybe you are headed out on a solo adventure? If you are going to be taking the kiddies along, a family friendly beach or Disney World destination might be your best bet. However, if you are headed somewhere with just your significant other, you might want to settle for a romantic cabin in the woods for the weekend. If you are toting teenagers along, a service or volunteer trip might have a long lasting impact, where as you and your girlfriends might just want some relaxing time at a spa retreat. Whatever you pick, make sure it is appropriate for all concerned, or no one will end up having a good time.

What?

What attractions or activities do you want to see and do while you are gone? Maybe you have always dreamed of seeing New York City at Christmas time, or perhaps you would rather take a step back and visit colonial Williamsburg for a taste of how the early Americans lived life? Maybe you want an adventure hiking the Appalachian Trail or skiing on the slopes of Aspen? Decide if you are looking for culture, relaxation, adventure, or historical on your vacation and you can start zeroing in on your destination.

Weather

Weather isn't the end all be all of your vacation destination, but you want to make sure that you don't blatantly disregard Mother Nature's natural patterns. If you have your heart set on a cruise during the height of hurricane season or skiing during a unseasonably warm winter, you might not get the vacation you had in mind. You can always make the most of the weather conditions you get, but a little planning and research will set yourself up for as close to ideal conditions as possible.

Time

How much time do you have? A weekend? A week? A month? Some destinations are simply not worth the travel time if you don't have adequate time to enjoy them once you get there. For example, if you have the standard week, backpacking around Europe isn't really going to work this time (even if it's your dream). Rather, if you have a month off in the middle of the summer, then the Europe trip might be more in your favor. Don't spend all your vacation time getting to the destination only to have to turn around and come home before you even get a chance to enjoy it.

Budget

For the most part, there are places and things to do in every location, even on a small budget. Just know how much you plan to spend before you leave because it is very easy to overspend once you are actually on vacation. Remember, too, that there are a great number of places that are close to home and relatively inexpensive that can be a memorable vacation for years to come as well.

This guest blog was written by Freedom Travel, specializing in military vacations and quick trips for members of the military and government personnel. Freedom Travel offers military cruises and military airfare. We can get you where you want to go!

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As summer approaches, thoughts turn to vacations and beautiful open roads. There are many opportunities to combine a relaxing vacation with a scenic road trip. Three popular vacation destinations offer just such car opportunities.

Independence Pass, Colorado Rockies

Whether you are looking for a summer vacation or a winter ski getaway, Colorado has something for everyone. Lush green in the summer and a fabulous white wonderland in the winter, there are over 2 dozen nationally designated Scenic & Historic Byways to enjoy. A favorite is the drive from Denver to Aspen. Driving up to Twin Lakes and over Independence Pass, you will reach elevations of 12,095 ft and see amazing views at the top of the pass.

Twin Lakes alone is worth the trip. The area started as a mining camp and you can still see plenty of old mining ruins. It’s a beautiful area with a rich history. Although Independence Pass is closed during the winter (it closes with the first snow as early as September, and re-opens sometimes as late as May), the trip to Twin Lakes is magnificent. There you will find skiing (cross-country and downhill), snowshoeing, ice-skating, hiking, biking, boating, and more depending on the season.

When the pass is open, you can drive up a narrow single-lane road with switchbacks galore. You will climb above tree line where the views are panoramic and spectacular. As Hwy 82 continues over the pass, the views are breathtaking and wildlife abounds. You may see elk, wild mountain sheep, and even a black bear or two.

Red Rock Scenic Byway, Arizona

Although only 7.5 miles long, Red Rock Scenic Byway is a spectacular drive that winds through some of the high desert's most awe-inspiring terrain. Inhabited for thousands of years, the stunning red rocks are alive with a timeless spirit that captivates and inspires.

Located in central Arizona about 110 miles north of Phoenix and 40 miles south of Flagstaff, it is just a few hours south of the Grand Canyon. The byway provides a feast for the eyes as it winds through hills and washes covered in yucca, juniper, cacti, and piñon pines as well as through the extraordinary, prehistoric Red Rocks. Also known as Route 179, it starts in Sedona and runs south, ending at Interstate 17 near Rimrock.

While the drive itself can be completed in 20 minutes, take a day or two to enjoy hiking, golf, biking, and more. There are clearly marked trailheads and off-road bike paths along the way. Spend some time exploring the red rock formations which seem to change shape and color as you view them from different angles and in different light. Most of the drive cuts through the diverse Coconino National Forest where you can view a diversity of wildlife including elk, deer, hawks, eagles, coyotes, and more.

A-1-A Scenic Byway, Florida

Running from Ponte Vedra Beach to the north and Daytona Beach to the south, with cozy Flagler Beach and historic St. Augustine in between, this byway is a vacation destination unto itself. Located on the northeast coast of Florida, this National Scenic Byway is actually three individual state scenic highways: Scenic and Historic A1A, A1A River and Sea Trail, and A1A Ocean Shore.

A great beginning point is Ponte Vedra Beach, at the northern end. Ponte Vedra Beach is a beautiful location with wonderful beaches, world-class resorts, and private retreats where the stresses of life are washed out to sea. Then, drive south about 30 miles to St. Augustine, the nation's oldest continuously-occupied city. Enjoy this historic, coastal town with quaint cafés, stores, museums, art galleries, and parks.

Continuing south, the traveler is treated to miles of pristine coastline, large ocean sand dunes full of native wildflowers, and sea oats. With miles of white sand and coquina beaches, you will have plenty of spots to take a dip or just lay on the beach. You can charter a fishing boat or just swing your feet over the pier while fishing from land. Boardwalks and trails offer opportunities to explore the areas without damaging the habitat. Likewise, kayaking tours are available on the Intracoastal Waterway for an intimate look at the aquatic ecosystem.

While road trip destinations abound, there are few that “have it all.” Next time you are looking for a chance to get out on the open road during a vacation, consider the natural beauty of these scenic byways. For these locations, the drive is half the fun.

Photo credit: Maroon-Bells Lake by Homer Edward Price/flickr

Author Sandy Landsford is an accountant and blogs for carinsurance.org.uk, a site where you can get cheap car insurance. Get a quote today!

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Lapland; nearly everyone has heard of it, but how much do you really know about the home of Father Christmas? Here is an introduction to the magical area.

1. Lapland is a region at the far north of Finland. Besides Finland, the area of Lapland also stretches over Sweden, Norway, and (a small part of) Russia. Indigenous to the region are the Sami; spanning the Nordic countries’ political borders. The Sami people speak a range of languages, known collectively as ‘Sami’. The name for Lapland in Sami is ‘Sápmi’.
2. The native inhabitants are today a minority; numbering just 4,500 in Finland. The Sami are a spiritual people with strong connections with nature. Many of the Sami live a nomadic lifestyle herding reindeer and occasionally sheep.
3. 

   Many Sami are reindeer herders.

   The majority of Lapland is within the Arctic Circle, and has landscapes varying from mountains over 2,000m tall, to rivers, marshlands and lakes. The variation across the region is stark; where in southern areas there are vast birch and pine forests, further north there is little vegetation of any kind. The famous phenomena of the polar night and the midnight sun are synonymous with this region, and become more extreme to the north.

4. The region of Lapland is home to a wealth of animals including reindeer, wolves, and bears, plus the lakes and rivers are beset with fish. The ground on lower lands is awash with berries, which are regularly used in cooking. Forest floors are carpeted with mushrooms, used to accompany meats and fish at meal times.
5. Tourism is growing throughout Scandinavia, the Nordic countries, and around Lapland too. The unspoiled nature of the area – often referred to as Europe’s last wilderness – along with the northern lights are proving popular for those in search of a slightly more adventurous holiday. Holidays to Lapland can be bought as a package to include activities like snowmobiling, dog sledding, skiing in the winter, and walking, horse riding, canoeing, hunting, and fishing in the summer. The open air Sámi Siida centre shows visitors aspects of the Sámi way of life and offers them the chance to pet their reindeer.

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5 Romantic but Inexpensive Honeymoon Destinations

When planning your honeymoon trip, you want a romantic time but usually the expense is a concern. The following is a listing of the 5 most reasonable but romantic locations or trips.

Mexico

Because of all the problems Mexico has had in the past, it is extremely affordable to travel there. Many resorts charge a set fee for all you can eat and drink even alcoholic drinks and room service. And if you choose to go in the summer during the hottest time of the month or during their hurricane season in September or October, you can get discount rates. Many places in Mexico offer dancing, scuba diving, surfing, sailing, horseback riding, whale watching, deep-sea fishing, romantic cruises, and snorkeling as entertainments during your stay.

Las Vegas

Las Vegas, Nevada can be just what you are looking for in a honeymoon trip. There are hotels that offer deals for weekdays, and sometimes you can purchase gift certificates at certain hotel websites that can be put towards the cost of food. They have gambling at the casinos and dinner shows that can be attended. Or just arrange for the candlelight dinner for two. One of the main attractions of Las Vegas is that you can "Travel the World" with just one trip. You can climb the "Eiffel Tower", take a boat along the Nile, or take a ride on a Venetian canal in a gondola.

Florida

Key West, Florida can be one of the most romantic places on earth. Just use your imagination. Beach strolls in the moonlight, dinner for two by candlelight, sunset cruises or an evening swim with just the two of you. And to fill in the daytime hours, there is an old town area made for leisurely shopping or sightseeing. And if you are up for more excitement, there are amusement parks galore.

Canada

Lake Tahoe, Canada during the summer, is a fantastic place for an inexpensive honeymoon if you book into smaller bed and breakfasts and you enjoy outdoor sports. The evenings can be candlelight dinners for two or walks along the lake in the moonlight. Or if you are looking for more excitement, there are casinos so that you may gamble or enjoy dancing or a show. And during the winter months there is skiing, hiking, dance cruises, casino and camping.

Kauai, Hawaii

The white beaches and inexpensive hotels place Kauai, Hawaii in the top five choices for a honeymoon on a budget. While most of your expense will be from food, there is nothing better than watching a sunset on a Hawaiian beach. There is also a pleasant little town to explore. And if you are more adventurous, you can always take a tour bus to some of the landmarks. But for just the romance, walks on a beach in the moonlight or walks to cascading waterfalls just can't be beat. Learning to do the hula dance is one of many offerings in Hawaii or go to a Luau or on an evening cruise for even more romance.

About Author:

Sarah Taylor is a wedding planner and in her spare time blogs for honeymoondestinations.org a great site with tons of articles to help newlywed couples plan their honeymoons wether they're going to belize or zimbabwe and everything in between!

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The Best of the Northeast and Yorkshire

 There are many places to go and many things to do in the Northeast and Yorkshire areas. In the Northeast, family members can visit Durham City and see some of the best architectural structures in the world. On the other hand, family members may want to visit the Yorkshire region. With a population of 5 million, tourists enjoy the quite countryside atmosphere and the beautiful waterfalls.

There is so much to do in northern England. You and your family will never get bored. In the Northeast and Yorkshire, visitors can enjoy shopping, going to restaurants, and entertainment.

In Northeast England, visitors enjoy shopping, restaurants, and entertainment. Visit Newcastle Gateshead and go on a shopping spree at The Metro Center. You will definitely find a place to shop in one of England's largest shopping malls. Take the family to a Northeast restaurant that you all will enjoy. You can try the Ochis restaurant in Darlington and eat meat, fish, vegetables, and pasta. Go to Nevilles Cross and everyone will love the family-oriented Stonebridge Inn. Do not forget to have family fun. Schedule a trip with the kids to the Woolaw Farm Quad Bike Safari in Rochester and ride the four-wheelers. Watch the deer herds in the 200-acre Raby Castle in Staindrop County Durham. If it rains or if the weather is bad, visit the Blue Reef Aquarium in North Tyneside. At the end of the day, relax and get some sleep at one of the Newcastle Hotels. There are many low cost hotels in the northern England.

In Yorkshire, the visitors enjoy shopping, restaurants, and entertainment. When tourists come to town, they browse the book stores. The visitors also go shopping for antiques, clothing, jewellery, and beauty products. Women visit the Phoebe shop to buy handbags and high heel shoes. While walking down the cobble stone streets in the Yorkshire areas, there are many places to stop and eat. You will be able to order local foods and European delicacies and international cuisines. This is the time to visit Yorkshire. Plan a trip to Yorkshire and you will not be disappointed. The kids will have fun at the Flamingo Land Zoo and Theme Park. The Lightwater Valley park is one of the best theme parks in the UK. Of course, there are many museums located in the Yorkshire area. Tourists learn a wealth of information about the history of Yorkshire when they visit the museums. The most popular museum is the Yorkshire museum. You will need rest and there are many Hotels in York.

Clearly, the Northeast and Yorkshire areas are excellent places to go if families want to spend time together. They will find places to eat together, places to have fun to together, and places go shopping together. It is always fun to plan a trip with your family. Get a travel agent to help you plan the trip in advance. Finally, Try to avoid last minute planning and enjoy the trip with your family to Northeast and Yorkshire England.

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Top 5 Reasons to Visit Le Royal Meriden Dubai

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New Zealand - Piha Beach

Top Five Beaches in New Zealand

If you are traveling to New Zealand, you surely have a laundry list of Lord of the Rings sites, bungee jumps, hiking trails and epic vistas on your itinerary; the country is a veritable playground of beauty and fun! Take a breather from all the action and spend a day relaxing on one of these world class beaches. Somewhat under-rated, New Zealand’s beaches boast clear blue lagoons and fine sand that will make you feel like you’re in Bora Bora—except instead of cabanas and cocktails, you’ll have the opportunity to partake in a quintessentially “Kiwi” brand of beach fun.

Piha Beach

Just west of Auckland, through winding, jungle, one-lane roads, you’ll suddenly find yourself overlooking Piha. This tiny town of 600 started New Zealand’s surf culture in 1958, when they caught the bug from Malibu. A dramatic black sand stretch, it is crowned by Lion Rock, a national icon and former Maori defensive citadel. Watch international surfing competitions from your vantage point atop the rock, or try “hanging ten” yourself, at your own risk. From Piha you can hike into the lush Waitakeres to find Kitekite Falls, where there are chilly swimming holes and 260 feet of tiered falls.

90 Mile Beach

Though someone got a little overzealous with this beach’s name (it’s really only 55 miles long), it is still a formidable stretch of golden sand. Reaching all the way to the northern tip of the country to Cape Reinga, it is bordered by the remarkable AupouriForest. Don’t miss a walk around the ancient and towering kauri trees in the forest just because you are too eager to get to the beach! You’ll want to rent a “dune board” before you head out onto the sand; sand-boarding down the massive dunes is a true thrill (much faster than you expect). Expect to be covered from head to toe in sand by the end of this day. You can also just hike to the crest of the dunes to relax and enjoy the windswept, far reaching view down the coast.

New Zealand Hot Water Beach

Hot Water Beach

If you venture out onto theCoromandelPeninsula, you’ll be treated to a truly unique beach experience. About two hours after low tide, bring your shovel to Hot Water Beach. The locals will show you how it’s done! Here, you can dig your own therapeutic spa in the sand! Packed with restorative minerals like calcium, magnesium and potassium, the warm water will sooth even the most harried traveler’s aches. Not the best swimming beach (rip currents are strong and sporadic), this is the perfect beach if you are feeling quite lazy and in need of some TLC.

Kaiteriteri

The gateway to the famous Abel Tasman track, along the north edge of the south island, this beach is coveted for its hidden coves and scenic coastline. Rent a kayak and paddle to secret nooks where there’s no one else in sight. Let the pristine turquoise waves tickle your toes as you lounge on glittering gold sand or take a stroll along the coastal walking paths. This sunny town offers seafood right off the boat-style in its casual restaurants and will be the perfect start to your trek on Abel Tasman.

New Zealand - Palm Beach

Palm Beach

WaihekeIslandis just off the coast from downtownAuckland, but you’ll feel worlds away. Rural and old-school, some may say that Waiheke is stuck in the 60s, which you’ll understand when you catch on to the residents’ flower child, veggie-market, beat up ’70 VW Beetle vibe.Palm Beachis the biggest beach on the island, a white sand cove where visitors and locals alike chill with a picnic, take a dip and get naked. What?! You heard me: naked. The western cove of the beach is open for all of your unhindered and unclothed whims. Highly recommended for the ideal tan (as you’ll quickly notice from the condition of the bronzed veterans), but first timers best slather up with SPF, or be caught with sunburn where one never wants sunburn.

About Author:

Noella Schink is a travel writer from Portland, Mainewho yearns for the year she spent exploring New Zealand. She recommends you start your Kiwi adventure with a hotel booking in Auckland and then losing yourself in these gorgeous islands.

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