Magaluf Nightlife Central

This is a guest post by Charlotte Kay.

Magaluf. Forget stereotypes - I was pleasantly surprised.

Magaluf is party-central and has a Club 18-30s vibe in parts, but letting your hair down is the modern person’s right. The resort is primarily beaches and partying, but I was surprised by the nearby attractions, with history and nature. 

Flying to Son Sant Joan Airport is easy in summer, with regular flights. In times of belt-tightening, it’s good to save as money, and in my experience, a fantastic way to do this by booking airport extras. Airport Parking is something I rarely go without.

You’ll be pleased to know, the transfer to resort is around an hour - sweating without air-con is not one of my favourite pastimes either.

It’s easy to get around, with a reliable bus service and taxis. In the past, I’ve made the mistake of not asking the rough price before getting into the car, don’t make the same mistake! I think a great way of really exploring is to hire a car. There’s plenty to see, with the Caves of Drach not far away

I’d recommend jumping on the bus to Palma for the day, with the stunning gothic-style cathedral its centrepiece. Shopping here is great. If there’s one thing I know about it, it’s shopping, so take my word for it!

Summertime is hot, and I always visit a water-park for a day’s splashing. Aqualand is a huge water-park, popular with families, as well as Marineland, with its dolphin and sea-lion shows. However, a holiday favourite of mine is the boat trip. A good tip is to haggle if there are a few of you, as you may find the vendor will knock a little off the price. An all-inclusive trip is great value, and I love nothing more than sailing around the coastline, soaking up the sun. I find it’s one of the best ways to really see the beauty of the area, with beautiful, secluded coves often missed otherwise.

The shopping scene in Magaluf is tourist-tacky, which I find is best avoided. There is a great market at nearby Andratx, where you’ll find souvenirs - the best place to grab a bargain.

In my experience, you’ll find that clubbers won’t venture into daylight until well after mid-day, so I’d recommend hitting the beach early and enjoying the peace, before it gets crowded. For a quieter beach, Cala Portals Vells is great, and it’s more scenic too. Whatever beach you choose, there’ll be plenty of water-sports, with parasailing one of my favourites. I loved it, and I couldn’t believe the breathtaking view below me. I’d certainly recommend giving it a go.

Night-time. In a word – busy. There’s something for everyone, from karaoke bars, pubs, restaurants to night-clubs open until dawn. Many bars are in competition with one another, so there’s plenty of offers – the buy one, get one free cocktail is always a favourite of mine!

Magaluf isn’t expensive. I often find that arranging your flight, transfer and accommodation separate works out a little cheaper, so I’d suggest investigating that option. A great way to start your holiday refreshed is by booking an airport hotel, with Bristol Airport hotels offering fantastic rates, with plenty of choice. I have stayed at a couple of the Gatwick Hotels and I’d recommend them for convenience and price. One of my personal favourites is The Days Hotel at Gatwick.                                                           

It’s sometimes difficult to leave stereotypes behind when looking at holiday destinations, but I was pleasantly surprised when looking further into Magaluf. Partying is a given, but there’s much more than meets the eye.

Staying Safe in Prague

By Ahmed Ahmed

Prague is a city with a lot to offer. It’s one of Europe’s most popular destinations, welcoming tourists from around the world in search of its historic architecture and lively nightlife. Too bad that the city also has a reputation for petty crime. However, there is no reason to stay away; just be smart. Here’s how to get the best out of Prague without letting its crooks get the better of you. Tips courtesy of GoWithOh.com holiday apartments.

Avoid the dodgy spots

Photo by Flickr user bartlec

Many of Prague’s main attractions are clustered around the centre of the city. The Old Town (Staré Město) is where you’ll find the Old New Synagogue, Old Town Square and the Astronomical Clock. A short walk takes you to the old Jewish Quarter (Josefov), and also to the gorgeous Charles Bridge. Because these areas are known to be tourist hotspots, it’s sensible to visit them during the day, as going there at night might expose you to unwanted attention and would-be pickpockets. Other key spots where you should be on your guard are Wenceslas Square and the main train station, Praha Hlavni Nadrazi.

Don’t let cabbies take you for a ride

It can sometimes seem like Prague’s taxi drivers never got the memo about the city’s rising status as a traveller’s hotspot. Many people complain that they can be grumpy, unhelpful and downright rude. Worst still, there are a fair few who will try to overcharge you outrageously. Always agree on a price before you set off, and make sure the meter is on so you can see if the price you settled on was reasonable or ridiculous. Remember that you’ll save money and see more by walking, so consult your map before jumping into a cab.

Beware of pickpockets

Ah yes – the pickpockets. Like many popular travel destinations, the Czech capital is home to its fair share of light-fingered individuals. The common advice about keeping essential cash and documents in a money belt on your person holds true. Leave any excess cash and non-essential valuables back at your hotel or apartment, and stay vigilant when out and about. Crowded streets, buses and metro trains are favourite haunts for pickpockets, so keep a close eye on your things and hold bags in front of you, to be on the safe side.

Get a fair deal

Photo by Flickr user The Man in Blue

Somewhat confusingly, Prague is a member of the European Union, but its currency remains the Koruna, or Czech Crown. This means that even visitors from inside the Eurozone will have to find a way to swap their cash. But don’t be tempted by anyone who approaches you offering currency exchange; the rates are often poor and you could even end up with false notes. Stick to the bank or, even better, withdraw what you need from the ATMs, of which there are plenty in Prague.

Days Out in Dublin, Ireland

Charlotte writes for Sykes Cottages Ltd. She enjoys visiting lots of places in the UK and Ireland, taking photos and writing about her holidays.

Dublin is situated on the east coast of the Republic of Ireland at the mouth of the River Liffey. It is both the capital of Ireland and the most heavily populated city but it is also has more green space per mile than any other European capital city and makes a fabulous holiday destination. Staying in a holiday cottage in Ireland strikes the perfect balance between busy city life and a good old Irish country welcome. So what do you do when you get there? Here is my guide to what not to miss in Dublin.

Guinness Brewery

The Guinness brewery was founded in 1759 by Arthur Guinness and has become synonymous with the city of Dublin. For many years the Guinness factory was both the largest brewery in the world and the biggest employer in Dublin. Nowadays, times have changed and although it isnít the largest brewery in the world, it is still the largest brewer of stout. No visit to Dublin is complete without a trip to the Guinness Storehouse, the Guinness themed tourist attraction that maps the story of Guinness in a seven story attraction, shaped cleverly around a pint shaped glass atrium. There is even chance to enjoy a pint of the black stuff on the seventh floor and take in a panoramic view of the city at the same time. Itís worth it just for the view!

Monument of Light

The Monument of light or the ëSpire of Dubliní as it is called locally is a stainless steel, pin-like monument that reaches 121.2 metres into the sky on O'Connell Street in the city centre. It was built as a replacement to Nelson's Pillar that was destroyed by bombing in 1966. It is lovely to visit the spire at dusk when it looks like the top of the pillar is merging into the night sky.

Temple Bar

Temple Bar is the best known area for nightlife in Dublin. The quirky street pattern with little narrow cobbled streets and unique Irish pubs make it a popular hangout for tourists and itís easy to see why.

Book of Kells

The Book of Kells is a lavishly decorated manuscript created around 800 AD by Irish monks. It documents the four Gospels of the New Testament and is regarded as one of Ireland's finest national treasures. It is on permanent display at the Trinity College Library in Dublin.

Kilmainham Gaol

This former prison was built in 1796 and was operational until the 1920ís. Nowadays itís a great place to visit to experience what it was like to be a prisoner and learn about the harsh conditions that prisoners of the past had to face.

Best Places to Find Love in Paris

Paris is often viewed as one of the most romantic cities in the world. So, it is no wonder why so many single women jump on flights to Paris, looking to meet someone special and fall in love. In a city as large as Paris, it can sometimes be difficult to know exactly where to find other hopeful singles. There are a few well known Paris locations that have a great reputation for being prime spots for meeting other singles.

Café Flore

Although pricey and often considered to be a tourist destination, Café Flore is notorious for not only its unique historic background but also for being one of the top sports to meet singles in Paris. Open from 7 am to 2 am, Café Flore offers patrons a trendy locale for dining and mingling. For those seeking a historically old fashioned Parisian Café as the backdrop for a romantic evening or early brunch, Café Flore will not disappoint. It is helpful though to remember that most locals begin dinner at 9 pm. Once dinner begins, the noise level at Café Flore becomes quite loud, so for those wishing to engage in a long, meaningful conversation with that special someone, they may want to leave before the dinner crowd arrives.

Les Deux Magots

Les Deux Magots is a well-known café in Paris’ famed Saint-Germain-des-Pres region. Drawing in the intellectually inclined, Les Deux Magots has been well received in the community as a popular spot for singles and tourists alike. While its historical reputation precedes it, Les Deux Magots offers patrons a unique variety of services in a classy, artistic atmosphere along with five-star cuisine. Paris singles choose Les Deux Magots as a location for meeting fellow singles for many reasons ranging from the trendy interior design to the French ambiance, but one thing is for sure, Les Deux is one of the number one locations for meeting Paris singles. The outdoor seating option at Les Deux Magots is an appealing choice for those wishing to have a more intimate dining experience. The simple sidewalk tables offer an unexpected romantic charm when dining outdoors.

Lo Sushi

Sushi bars are also popular destinations for single women to find love in Paris. Chefs and patrons yelling orders back and forth in sushi restaurants creates a lively environment, making it easy to strike up a conversation with fellow diners. Lo Sushi in Champs-Elysees is one of the top rated sushi restaurants in Paris and popular among local singles. Offering a quieter dining atmosphere than most sushi restaurants, Lo Sushi provides ample opportunities to converse with other restaurant patrons. The trendy interior and intimate seating attracts both locals and tourists. The best spot to chat up a fellow single in Lo Sushi is the bar, which is where most of the restaurant action takes place. For those simply looking to be entertained, the bar is also a great location for quirky exchanges from the sushi chefs and staff, which could be a great spring board for meeting other singles sitting nearby.

Best Tours in Singapore for Single Women

Singapore is an incredibly safe destination for a single woman. Their low crime rate, trustworthy police, and excellent medical facilities make it an excellent choice for the female solo traveler. A great way to get acquainted with Singapore is through a tour. Tours are fantastic for a single woman because it gives them a chance to meet fellow travelers while also getting to experience some of the city. Singapore holidays have many fabulous tours that you can take, but these are just a few of the very best for single women.

Singapore Zoo Night Safari Tour

Singapore Zoo offers a very unique experience for travelers in the form of their Night Safari. It gives single women the chance to see nocturnal animals in their natural habitat while an experienced tour guide offers insights into the creatures. It's difficult to get a good look at nocturnal animals anywhere else, but on the Night Safari tour, it's easy. It's also a great tour to do after dark for single women who want to do some kind of activity at night, but don't want to dine alone. Sentosa Island Tour Sentosa Island is a beautiful tropical island that is easily reached by cable car from the city center. Single women will love this trip, as it's a great chance to relax, see some beautiful views, swim, and lie on the beach. It's a welcome respite from hectic Singapore, and it's an easy day trip. A tour gives single women a great way to meet other travelers and get some inside information on Sentosa Island's many sights and activities.


Hop-on, Hop-off Bus Tour

These are ubiquitous in every major city for a reason. For a single woman, a hop-on, hop-off bus tour might just be the easiest, most convenient way to see Singapore. The bus picks up and drops off at a variety of interesting sights around the city, making it easy to see a lot of the city in a short amount of time. Plus, the bus always has an informative and educational guide who is a great resource for tips on what not to miss.




Food Tours

Singapore is a very multi-cultural city, and nowhere is that more apparent than in the variety of different cuisines available. A great option for single women who have adventurous taste buds is to go on one of the many food tours available in Singapore. They range from tours focusing on high-end dining to tours that focus on cheap, but delicious Chinese food. For example, The Chinatown Food Tour gives visitors the chance to explore Singapore's excellent Chinatown and all the delicious foods available there, all with the convenience of an experienced, knowledgeable guide.

The Best Party Spots in Bangkok

With its infamous reputation and depictions in movies such as The Hangover 2, Bangkok’s nightlife is known around the world. Bangkok offers everything from the naughty and risqué at Patpong, Nana, and Soi Cowboy, to pubs, live music bars, and trendy clubs. It is truly the nightlife Mecca of South East Asia. However, with such a wide variety of nightlife options it can be difficult to know where to start. Based on personal experience, here are the three best party spots in Bangkok.

Nana Plaza

Of the three main red light areas, Patpong, Soi Cowboy and Nana Plaza, Nana Plaza is by far the most exciting. While Patpong and Soi Cowboy are more widely known, they have both been reduced to more carnival, touristy sightseeing areas. For a place to really experience the naughty night life of Bangkok, Nana Plaza is the best choice. Located in Sukhumvit Soi 4, Nana Plaza is a veritable three story sex mall centered on the square shaped plaza. Nana Plaza boasts a variety of open air bars and go-go bars with themes such as Bangkok’s infamous ladyboys, lesbian dominatrix, Japanese school girls etc. With such an exotic and erotic atmosphere Nana Plaza is definitely one of best three party spots in Bangkok!

Q Bar

Along with the more risqué options, Bangkok has a great club and bar scene.  One of the most world renowned clubs in Bangkok is the Q Bar. After 12 years, the Q Bar has set the standard for clubbing in Bangkok.  The Q Bar boasts the largest selection of alcohol in the city along with live DJs and a weekly party schedule. An eclectic crowd frequents the Q Bar with a good mix of Thai, expats and tourists, including several A list celebrities. The upstairs lounge, Q Up, has one of Bangkok’s only open air smoking terraces. Offering a place for cliental to enjoy a cigarette, shisha, or an imported cigar. Q Bar has been featured in magazines and television networks across the world and is the number one clubbing destination in Bangkok. The Q Bar is located near the BTS stop Nana at Sukhumvit Soi 11.

Khao San Road

Internationally recognized from Leonardo Decaprio’s movie The Beach, Khao San makes the list as one of the three best party spots in Bangkok.  Khao San is a short street located in central Bangkok, just north of the Grand Palace and Wat Phrae Kaw. Khao San road is a back packer’s paradise. With cheap hostels, restaurants, and bars, Khao San is an ideal place to party.  It is overflowing with foreigners from around the world and it is never hard to find a good time there. With open air patio bars lining the streets, each competing with one another to offer the cheapest drinks and best specials, it is easy to find a good place to have a few drinks.

With flights to Bangkok becoming more affordable in recent times, it is certainly a destination that I would highly recommend you visit. Indulge in a cultural experience by day and party hard at night, my ideal holiday!

3 Best Activities to do in Noosa

Noosa, Queensland, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Australia. The area is well-known for its pristine landscape. Noosa has an abundance of beaches and wildlife with Noosa hotels situated in the hinterland as well as the beachfront, giving you a number of options whatever your taste. There are no high-rises taking over the amazing picturesque views. The casual atmosphere allows tourists to feel laid-back and in touch with nature while enjoying the actives that Noosa has to offer. From strolling the boardwalk to skydiving, good times await all.

Noosa River and Everglades

Experience a day of natural wonders by taking a long cruise through the Noosa River and Everglades. It is in Cooloola National Park. This is a bird lover's paradise. There are a large number of things to photograph. A barbecue lunch at Harry's Hut in Great Sandy National Park is included with the cruise. A visitor has the choice between fish fillets, steak, sausages or vegetarian. The meal is topped off with a glass of wine. Explore this unspoiled eco system and leave with unforgettable memories of peace and tranquility. It’s a special feeling that you can only find in the Everglades.

Sunset Kayaking

Kayaking on the Noosa River is a joy. During the day, you are able to explore and kayak alongside the dolphins. However, there is a whole other beautiful world to be seen at sunset. Animals are waking up while others are just now resting. The area is full of new sounds that are taking over the landscape. Soak up all the riches of the mangroves and sandbars while exploring the wildlife-filled estuaries. Take a break to splash in the water with fish before continuing on towards the ocean. When the sun sets, the kayak sails rise. Take in the beauty of the sunset, and then cruise back on the Noosa River. This is a wonderful excursion for first timers and families with children. Kayaking is leisurely and makes for a wonderful trip at the end of the day. It can even be a start to a fun filled evening.

Circus Workshop

This is where the magic of making a visitor's dream comes to life. The circus workshop has lessons for juggling, trapeze work and bungee trampolines. Lessons last anywhere from 90 minutes to overnight stays. This is a fun way to learn basic circus skills. While on the bungee trampoline, people learn about confidence and aerial awareness. These skills come in handy if you are moving on to the trapeze. A guest will have a blast learning tricks and flips while bouncing in the air. Juggling school helps teach eye to hand coordination. Guests will have hands-on experience using balls, clubs and devil sticks. It is a great gift to learn to show family and friends. Instructors at the flying trapeze workshop will help with warm-ups. Then, you proceed to the practice bar that is at ground level. A safety belt is fitted and used throughout practice. Lessons include how to swing, take off, knee hang and back flip down to the net. This popular attraction in Noosa must be booked four to six weeks in advance.

The 5th season - carnival in Germany

Today, on November 11th at exactly 11.11 am is the magical date for the beginning of the 5th season in Germany: carnival. In German it’s called Karneval and Fasching, depending on the region. Until Aschermittwoch (Ash Wednesday) celebrations, Sitzungen (sessions), floats, street events, parties, balls and many other festivities take place all over the country.
Today is also the moment when the ‘Tollitäten’, Prince and Princess carnival take over the reign of their ‘närrische’ subjects. Most famous are the Karnival in Köln and Mainz as well as the Münchner Fasching. Popular is the Weiberfastnacht in Cologne which is celebrated on March 7th 2011.
It’s a free for all for women, who storm the Town Hall and are allowed to cut off the tie of any man they choose. And to kiss them too. It's a fun occasion for a sinlge woman traveler. Just don a costume, mingle with the crowd and do as you please.
Karnevalsgesellschaften work all year on the elaborate floats which parade the streets of Köln, Mainz and other German cities. Sweets are thrown into the crowds who line the streets and cheer the floats. Everybody participates, wearing costumes and disguises or just a red nose.
Go and enjoy the 5th season in Germany.

How to get around as a single woman traveler

My recent arrival in Beirut, a city I don’t know at all, is a good opportunity to practise the best way of getting around when you are a woman travelling on your own. After four days of trying out this, that and the other, I think I have discovered the basics which, of course, can be applied to any other location in the world.

MAPS

Obviously, the first thing you do is to get yourself a decent map to see where you are and where the different districts of any city are located in relation to the location of your hotel or apartment. Draw a circle in red around your hotel so you can always see at a glance were you need to end up.

Fold the map to show only the section of where you want to go. Nothing makes you look more like a –sometimes vulnerable- tourist than holding up a big flapping map in the middle of the road and staring at it in confusion.

Be aware, that maps do not altogether coincide with reality. They are simplifications. You think, something is a clear run and it turns out that you have to take twists and turns which don’t show on the map.

Districts often go by different names. Familiarize yourself with them and find them on your map before you set out.

WALKING

The best way of getting orientated is on foot. Taking a taxi is easy, but you lose direction quickly, because taxi drivers take short cuts. Dispense with heels and wear flats and always watch out for holes and other obstacles on the pavement. Learn how streets are crossed. Are pedestrian crossing to be trusted or not? Are one way roads respected or not?

When taking a turn into another street, always look back and memorize landmarks, shops or billboards so you can easily retrace your steps.

Don’t hesitate to ask locals. Rarely will they send you in the wrong direction (it has happened to me, but not in Beirut). Pointing at your map helps when there are language problems, but be aware that, like here, locals seldom know street names. They refer to destinations by landmarks or buildings.

TAXIS

They are a blessing and a cruse in any country. A blessing because it’s the easiest way to get from A to B, a curse because there are different sorts of taxis and different fares. Many Middle Eastern countries have communal taxis which go vaguely in your direction and are shared by strangers. Leant what the fare is. Flag down a cab, shout your destination and add ‘service’ and if the driver stops you know you are on your way.

Individual taxis either have a meter, but always make sure it’s running. Or you need to agree the fare in advance. Make sure you know what it normally is or you end up paying twice as much or more because you have identified yourself as an ignorant tourist.

PUBLIC TRANSPORT

Riding local buses is great fun but rarely will you find itineraries or even stops (at least in the Middle East). Make sure you know how the ticket system works, do you need tokens, do you pay the driver, do you need the exact fare? Then, simply hop on and see where the bus takes you. Don’t forget your map and you’ll end up somewhere you will recognize although it may not be where you wanted to go in the first place.

After all, discovering places and doing as the locals do is part of the fun and excitement of travel.

SAFETY

Every city has areas where it is not a good idea to go, much less on your own and as a woman. Make sure what they are called and where they are. Pay attention to your surroundings, don’t flaunt 7 gold bracelets on your arm and a 2carat diamond on your finger. Dress to blend in and avoid tourist gear like hats with batches on it or the famous socks/ sandals combo. Leave plunging necklines for clubbing. But, don’t be too anxious. Don’t clutch your purse to your bosom and constantly look around for possible muggers.

I attended a self defense course a few years back and the first thing our instructor taught us was this: don’t look like a victim or you will become a victim. Be alert but also be confident. A self assured attitude is your best protection. I have found that to be sound advice.

Hallo Beirut!!!

This is my second day of three months in Beirut. Follow my adventures, travels and experiences on my other blog: www.glamourgrannytravels.com.