Dubrovnik

A holiday in Dubrovnik will see you enjoy some of the richest history in Croatia whilst relaxing by the tranquil waters of the Adriatic sea.  Dubrovnik fully deserves its place as a world heritage site and is one of the world’s most magnificent fortified cities.  It has become Croatia’s most sophisticated holiday destination, attracting tourists who wish to experience Dubrovnik  from all over the globe.  Nearly five million people now savour a holiday in Dubrovnik every year.

Dubrovnik’s affluent heritage comes from its previous standing as the capital of the Republic of Ragusa, a maritime republic in what was then known as Dalmatia from the fourteenth to the nineteenth century until conquered by Napoleon in 1808.

Part of the Ottoman Empire, it had a population of around 30,000 people, of whom 5,000 resided within the fortified walls.  The city consists of narrow streets and diminutive squares that are normally bedecked with floral tributes.

Your itinerary, if you want to make the most of your Dubrovnik holiday, should include a tour of the impressive city walls.  The entrance to these ramparts is close to what is known as Pile Gate, and from here you can inspect the towers, facades and round-tiled roofs, including the domes of St Ignatius.  No holiday to Dubrovnik would be complete without a trip to the Savina Monastery, located high up in Herceg Novi. From here you are blessed with a magnificent panorama of the Bay of Kotor.

This Monastery has remained unblemished by time and will soon be one of the best memories of your Dubrovnik vacation once you are home.  After visiting the Monastery you can hurry down to the Lustica Peninsula where you’ll find quaint little fishing villages and untouched olive groves and scrub land.

Accommodation for your holiday in Dubrovnik is really up to you as there are so many choices.  From five-star hotels to cheaper options, private villas and simple guest houses, a little bit of research should be enough to make your Dubrovnik holiday a comfortable one.  Getting there is simplicity itself; Dubrovnik has its own airport located twelve miles south of the city, and is served by most major airlines.

If partying is your thing, then a Dubrovnik holiday will provide you with ample opportunity to do just that.  There are a range of clubs in the city, such as Capitano, Klub Orlando, Factory and EastWest.

There are also many wine bars and enchanting places to enjoy a quiet drink such as Cafe Buža and Casablanca.  When it comes to dining, you’ll find sufficient options to meet any budget, from fine cuisine to traditional eateries.  Dubrovnik cuisine is fish-based with a few other popular meat dishes.  Some restaurant prices can be high, so shop around to find the best deals.

Don’t forget to consider a day trip during your holiday in Dubrovnik.  You can take in a complete tour of Dalmatia which should include a trip to see locals preparing olive oil using centuries-old methods.  How about a tour of the Island of Korcula, the original home of Marco Polo, or a cruise of the Elafiti and Green islands where you can look back and view the glorious city of Dubrovnik from across the sea.

A Dubrovnik holiday really is one where history merges with relaxation.  Book a holiday to Dubrovnik and experience the rich heritage of a beautiful, ancient city with all the modern comforts a holiday-maker has come to expect.

Sark

The isle of Sark is a remarkable getaway that promises visitors both exciting discoveries and quiet repose. Anyone serious about getting away from the daily grind should seriously consider booking a holiday to Sark. This relatively unspoilt, slow-paced island sits just off the coast of Normandy and is actually composed of two islets; Greater Sark and Little Sark.

A narrow, 300-foot isthmus links the two land masses, making the island a geological wonder in itself, though it boasts many other unique formations. If you must have endless sandy beaches to achieve relaxation, then Sark might not be the right destination for you; but if you want to explore a picturesque locale well away from the crowds, place this British isle on your to-do list.

Sightseeing and activities

Among the attributes that set Sark apart from other holiday alternatives is that to get around you have to travel on foot or by horse-drawn carriage, or by bicycle.

But given that the island is a mere 3 by 1½ miles long, this is should not be difficult to do. In fact, it makes for a wonderful experience as you blend in with the slow pace of life in this sleepy royal fief.

As you saunter or bike through the narrow trails surrounded by wild flowers of all colours and various tree species, you are bound to become a nature lover if you weren’t one before.

And even more so as butterflies and different kinds of birds flit about in the light streaming down through the canopy of leaves. What is described here is a glimpse of the Dixcart Valley in spring. The cliffs of Sark are also covered with a colourful carpet of daisies, foxgloves and rock samphire.

The undersea world at Sark is equally captivating and a scuba diving expedition will reveal rare types of fish and a host of other marine creatures. Into sport fishing? Whether you’re an expert angler or are interested in learning, you can take part in this activity.

If you simply want to cruise along the waters surrounding the island you will find charter boats to take you around. While reposing at Sark’s bays you will be able to swim in the shallow waters of natural rock pools as well as find caves and other interesting formations to explore. You will want to watch the tide carefully before starting your cave expedition though.

Events

During spring you can join locals and fellow tourists in guided walks through the Sark countryside purposely aimed at discovering the various wild flower species that grow there. These are held every Monday, Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday during the height of spring.

Various artefacts from the occupation of Sark during the Second World War are made available for viewing during the Occupation Exhibition at the Visitor Centre between May and June. Plenty of information as well as photos and films from that period are also shown to visitors.

Up for a cross-country race through the picturesque landscape of this island? At the beginning of the month of June you’ll have an opportunity to challenge yourself in this 10 mile race while enjoying your Sark holiday.

Jersey

This semi-autonomous bailiwick is the biggest of the Channel Islands at just over a hundred square kilometres. But don’t let its size fool you; there is plenty to see and many activities to engage visitors here. Lovers of outdoor sport will be particularly thrilled at the range of activities they will be able to do on land, in the water and indeed, in the air.

Hikers and bikers will find challenging terrains along which to explore the island’s magnificent scenery and poignant landmarks. Those who booked a holiday to Jersey purposely to sunbathe will be glad they did so when they set foot on the sandy, scenic beaches. Jersey also plays host to a variety of cultural events including music festivals.

Sightseeing and activities

Jersey boasts several beaches conducive for promenades, lounging and swimming.

These include the popular St. Brelade’s Bay on which holidaymakers can get a drink and a bite from nearby cafes and bars and the similarly equipped St. Aubin’s Bay which also boasts a lovely harbour.

Though some of the beaches can be quite pebbly, you’re always assured of amazing views and a scintillating breeze. And a number of water sports are done off Jersey’s coastline including surfing at St. Ouen’s Bay.

As you would expect when on holiday to a seaside resort like Jersey, tourists can get a closer view of the marine life by diving into the clear waters. Not only will scuba divers be treated to the sight of a rich diversity of fish and other sea creatures, they are also likely to come across a shipwreck.

Princess Ena, a passenger ship which sunk in 1953 is but one of the many wrecks that dot the seabed near this island. The beauty is that you don’t have to be a seasoned diver to experience the thrill of scuba diving; even if you are a complete novice, you can be introduced to the silent charm of life underwater.

When you are done with exploring the sea and desire to discover what attractions the island itself has to offer, you will find several walking trails available to you.

Whether you want to take a tranquil promenade or prefer a trail that will challenge you physically, you will find a walk to suit your taste.

One of the most exciting of them is the ‘moonwalk’ along the island’s south coast when the tide is low. As you travel across the eerily moon-like landscape, you will come across some ancient fortified towers that were built by the French in the 18^th and 19^th centuries.

The presence of several international standard golf courses in Jersey will be music to the ears of avid golfers. Les Meilles, Les Ormes and Longueville Golf Range are just a few of the places where pros and beginners alike can practice their swing.

Events

The diverse terrain on Jersey has given birth to a variety of walking events that take place mostly in autumn and which those on holiday here are free to participate in. The month of September features events such as the Two Towers Moonwalk and the Autumn Walking Week.

This month also sees a feast of culture as artists from all over the UK and Europe as well as those based in Jersey gather at the Royal Yacht Hotel to display their works.

Guernsey

Picturesque coastal rocks amid deep blue waters, and leafy green public spaces and wooded areas replete with various plant species are a glimpse of the sort of landscape that will greet those on holiday to Guernsey.

This tiny Channel island in the middle of France and England is any tourist’s dream getaway with plenty of places to go, things to do and sights to see accompanied by lovely mild weather. Apart from the amazing panoramic views you will be able to soak up local culture and history when you browse through its landmarks and museums as well as interact with the friendly locals.

There is almost always something happening in Guernsey and holidays to this bailiwick presents visitors with the chance to participate in a number of unique events.

Sightseeing and activities

Sightseeing itself is one of the things that will occupy most of your hours on this island, particularly if you are an avid photographer.

The best way to view the scenery is by foot and there are numerous trails you can follow including cliff-top paths that give magnificent views of the sea.

To get the most out of your walk it is advisable for you to enlist the services of a guide who will be more than willing to furnish you with lots of information. As you walk through the wooded areas you will encounter several bird species that will no doubt warm the cockles of the birdwatcher’s heart.

This is thanks to the island’s ideal climate for nesting. Some of the walks also feature quiet ponds and a smattering of wildlife. A walk through the Candie Gardens will not only put you in flowery, tranquil surroundings, it will also offer you a breathtaking view across the St. Peter Port Harbour.

While strolling through Guernsey you will come across several striking landmarks that are echoes of the island’s rich cultural heritage. Among the most astounding is the Rousse Tower, constructed as a defence mechanism to keep French invaders at bay. Diamonds are said to be a girl’s best friend and at The Guernsey Diamond Museum you will be taken through an insightful journey from the time the stones are mined to when they are set in those glittering necklaces.

The Little Chapel could indeed be the world’s such smallest construction and is an arresting work of art. It was put up in 1914 with the aim of creating a miniature version of the grotto and basilica in Lourdes, France.

While Guernsey’s local cuisine is to die for, visitors on holiday in these parts will have the luxury of choosing from these specialities and dishes from all around the world. There are myriad restaurants, bistros and gastropubs here that will only be too glad to serve you with the best of Italian, Indian, Thai and other styles of cuisine, all cooked and served to perfection. You could help your meal down with the local cider or your poison of choice.

Events

There are concerts every Saturday in the island’s market square all the way from spring to autumn and from May to September there are similar concerts at the Candie Gardens.

Zante

The Ionian islands are a group of islands to the west of mainland Greece, each with its own distinct character, and each bearing testimony to the various colonisations and historical influences of its numerous rulers.

The island of Zante is the southernmost island in the Ionian group and is also known by the Greek name of Zákynthos. Homer mentions Zante in the Iliad and the Odyssey and writes that the island was first settled by Zakynthos, son of the king of Troy, around 1500-1600 BC. The capital of Zante is Zákynthos Town and the island has a population of approximately 46 000.

The geography of Zante includes both steep cliffs and a mountainous plateau as well as a densely populated fertile plain, enclosing shallow bays and sandy beaches. The mild climate and good rainfall make it ideal for growing citrus fruit, grapes, and the Zante currant, in addition to olives.

Rebuilt after a devastating earthquake

Zante suffered massive destruction by a series of four earthquakes in the summer of 1953 and its elegant Zákynthos Town, built by the Venetians, was almost completely destroyed. It has since been rebuilt with attempts to recapture its former grace. The church of Agios Dionýsios, the island’s patron saint, survived the earthquake and houses the body of the saint in a silver coffin.

The city’s Byzantine Museum also houses a vast collection of icon and frescoes rescued from the town’s destroyed churches and monasteries, and a scale model of the pre-earthquake town. The Solomós Museum contains the tomb of the poet Dionýsios Solomós, the principal modern Greek poet and author of the Greek national anthem.

The turtles of Zante

The island is famous for its green loggerhead turtles, which have been migrating to Laganás Bay to nest for thousands of years.

However, the development of Laganás Bay with its many bars and discos has decimated the numbers of these animals, which can weigh up to 180 kg, to a mere 800 and their preservation has become an important issue for environmentalists. Stretches of the beach are now off-limits, and efforts are made to ensure the future survival of the loggerhead turtles. Excursions in glass-bottomed boats allow visitors to observe the turtles.

The Blue Caves

At the northernmost tip of Zante are the unusual Blue Caves, named for the stunningly clear blue water below the hollowed-out white rock formations, cut into the cliffs of Cape Skinari, the largest of which is known as the Blue Grotto.

The caves can only be accessed by boat but boat trips are available from the nearby resort of Agios Nikólaos as well as boat trips that go right around the island.

Accommodation

Accommodation on Zante is fairly basic, but a number of options are available: Leedas Village offers self-catering apartments, as does Paliokaliva Village with its stone cottages. There is the small Villa Tzogia on the west side of the island, and the even more rustic Tsivouli Park where the owners keep livestock and grow fruit and vegetables. The lively Zakanthi restaurant and bar in Kalamáki offers excellent Greek cuisine.

Santorini

Santorini is the southernmost island of the Cyclades group of 56 islands, lying in a circle off the south-eastern coast of mainland Greece. The island of Santorini is the most active volcanic centre in the so-called South Aegean Volcanic Arc. The island consists of a crescent shape around a caldera, or volcanic crater, formed when the island volcano erupted in 1450 BC.

Some believe Santorini, classically known as Thera and officially as Thira, to be a candidate for the lost kingdom of Atlantis.

The small central islands of Néa and Kaméni emerged after more recent volcanic activity, in 197 BC and 1707 respectively, and are still volcanically active today. Santorini has a population of approximately 14 000 and its capital is Firá. The mostly arid island of Santorini is carpeted with wild flowers in spring, and packed with tourists in the summer months, when people flock to its beautiful sandy beaches.

Restored after an earthquake

The island of Santorini itself is the result of repeated volcanic activity and eventual caldera collapse, but in 1956 an earthquake destroyed much of the capital of Firá and other villages. The town has since been rebuilt, and the Mégaro Ghisi Museum has photographs from before and after the earthquake.

The typical architecture of Santorini is that of whitewashed cubical houses, terraced into the volcanic cliffs, interspersed with domed churches and barrel-roofed cave houses. The buildings of Firá, Oía at the northern tip and other villages have been carefully restored to resemble the traditional settlements.

Agriculture

Santorini’s climate is very hot and desert like, it has no rivers and water is scarce. Previously island dwellers collected water in cisterns, but in recent years most of the running water on Santorini comes from a desalination project.

Despite this climate, and owing to its special volcanic ash soil, Santorini produces excellent crops, especially of tomatoes, legumes, eggplants and cucumbers. The island also has a small but flourishing wine industry, producing the sweet and strong Vinsanto from Assyrtiko grape variety.

Places of interest

Ancient Thíra, on the east coast of the island, was excavated by the German archaeologist Hiller von Gortringen in the 1860s. Most of the ruins he unearthed date to the time of the Ptolemies in the 3^rd and 4^th centuries BC.

The Archaeological Museum of Firá houses finds from the ruins of Ancient Thíra, as well as from Akrotíri and the ancient city of Mesa Vouno. The complete 3 500-year-old city of Akrotíri was excavated in 1967 by the archaeologist Spyridon Marinatos. This former Minoan outpost on the southwest tip of Santorini was wonderfully preserved under tons of volcanic ash.

Coastal villages

The resort of Kamári is situated below ancient Thíra and to the north and is the island’s most popular beach area with many bars and tavernas. The northern town of Oía is renowned for its sunsets and the nearby Ammoudi has a fishing harbour.

Accommodation

There is an abundance of holiday accommodation on Santorini: the many 5-star hotels include the Zannos Melathron in the quiet village of Pyrgos, the Notos Therme and Spa, and the romantic Sun Rocks, and the colourful rooms of the Chromata. Accommodation in the traditional Santorinian skaftes includes the 5-starArtemis Villas in Imerovigli and the Esperas in Oía. The 3-star Hotel Keti, just off the steps that lead from Thira to the harbour below, shares the same spectacular views as the more costly hotels elsewhere.

Rhodes

Rhodes is the largest of the Dodecanese islands, the southernmost group of Greek islands, scattered along the western coast of Turkey. Owing to their great distance from Athens, the Dodecanese islands have been subject to various invasions and occupations over many centuries, until they were finally incorporated into the Greek state in 1948. Rhodes is the most populated of the Dodecanese islands, with 117 000 inhabitants, and it attracts thousands of visitors every year.

History of a walled city

The Old Town of Rhodes is one of the finest examples of a walled city in existence, and as such has been declared a World Heritage Site. The town, at the northern tip of the island, dates back to 408 BC. In 332 BC it became part of the empire of Alexander the Great, from 1090 it was occupied by the Muslim Turks, and during the First Crusade it was recaptured by the Greeks.

The first Grand Master of the crusaders, Magnus Magister, bought Rhodes from the Genoese pirate Admiral Vignoli in 1306, conquered the islands’ inhabitants, and the Knights of Rhodes, as they became known, remained on the island until their expulsion in 1522. The Knights’ medieval citadel, surrounded by moats, 4 km of walls and 11 imposing arched gates, is dominated by the Palace of the Grand Masters, built in the 14^th century.

It forms the centre of the Old Town of Rhodes, a fortress within a walled city, while the new town lies beyond the original walls of the citadel. The palace contains priceless mosaics and sculptures. Although it previously survived earthquakes and sieges, in 1856 it was blown up in an unintentional explosion; it was restored by the Italians in the 1930s.

The medieval Street of the Knights is situated between the Palace of the Grand Masters and the harbour and is lined by the “Inns of the Tongues”, or nationalities, of the Order of St John. Each “Tongue” protected an area of city wall known as a “Curtain”. The inns were also restored by the Italians in the 1930s.

Other places of interest

In ancient times, Rhodes was home to one of the Seven Wonders of the World: the Colossus of Rhodes, a giant bronze statue which guarded the harbour. Completed in 280 BC, it was destroyed in an earthquake in 224 BC.

The pink Mosque of Suleiman the Magnificent was built in 1522 to commemorate the Sultan’s victory over the Knights. It remains one of the major landmarks of the town, but the structure is crumbling and has been closed to the public.

The Library of Ahmet Havuz houses a collection of rare Arabian and Persian manuscripts, as well as a chronicle of the siege of Rhodes in 1522.

The new town of Rhodes has been built over the past century and is made up of a number of areas, including the Néa Agora with its Moorish domes and lively cafes, and Mandráki harbour, from where boat trips can be booked.

Accommodation

The 5-star Rodos Palace is the most luxurious hotel on the island, but there are many other fine establishments, such as the 5-star Rodos Park Suites, the Melenos Lindos and the Fashion Hotel Nikos Takis in the Old Town. The 4-star Marco Polo Mansion is evocative of medieval Rhodes and the 3-star San Niolis Hotel and the Paris Hotel offer charming accommodation in the Old Town.

Paxos

The Ionian islands are a group of islands to the west of mainland Greece, each with its own distinct character, and each bearing testimony to the various colonisations and historical influences of its numerous rulers. According to legend, Paxos rose from the Ionian sea at the command of Poseidon, to provide a meeting place for him and his mistress Amfitrite.

Paxos lies 14 km south of Corfu, has no airport, and can only be reached by boat. The islands of Paxos and Antipaxos and some smaller islands are together known as Paxi or Paxoi, and literally means “a group of islands”. The history of Paxos is closely linked with that of Corfu, and it is traditionally believed that the Phoenicians were the first people to settle on Paxos. Approximately 2 700 people live on Paxos today; the population of Antipaxos is a mere 100.

Still an agricultural and fishing community

Paxos is one of the least commercial of the Greek islands – its capital is Gaios, a small but lively resort town, and several other farming and fishing villages are dotted around the green landscape.

The olive groves that cover Paxos were planted centuries ago by the Venetians and the local olive oil is of an extremely high quality.

Olive farming still forms a large part of the island’s economy. One main road runs around the island and the best way to get about is by bicycle or moped. Bicycles, scooters and motorbikes can be hired in Gaios. There is also plenty of opportunity for exploring the island on foot, or hiking along the cliffs or through the woods.

Places of interest

There are more than 60 Greek Orthodox churches on Paxos, although only about 10 of these are open on a regular basis. A statue of Pyropolitic, hero of the Greek revolution, faces the waterfront in Gaios. There is a harbour for the ferries, hydrofoils and sea taxis bringing visitors from Corfu, and a smaller one for fishing boats, protected by the small islands of Agios Nikolas and Panagia.

The Paxos Museum, on the harbour side of Gaios, was opened in 1996, and houses artefacts such as old olive presses and containers for measuring oil, stone-age flint tools, pottery from the Classical period, as well as guns and tools from later eras. Gaios has the only nightclub on the island.

An abundance of coastal beauty

There are in excess of 30 beautiful beaches along the east coast of Paxos. The smallest and most attractive of these is the resort of Porto Longos. It has a pebble beach, a few shops, and tavernas whose tables stand on the water’s edge.

The village of Lakka, on the northern tip of Paxos, also has two pristine beaches and watersport is on offer. The west coast of Paxos, with its soaring white limestone cliffs and huge caves is spectacularly beautiful. Because of its inaccessibility, the stunning beaches are best reached by boat. A motorboat can be hired to explore the beaches and coastal villages of Paxos.

Antipaxos also has olive groves, but even more vines, and produces good-quality wine. There is no tourist accommodation, but it is a 15-minute journey by sea taxi and day trippers from Paxos enjoy its beaches in summer.

Accommodation

The Paxos Beach Hotel and the Paxos Club are both 4-star, family run hotels – the Paxos Beach Hotel offers sea views and the facilities include a private beach.

Cape Verde Islands

I have recently returned from Cape Verde.

The islands are just off of the West coast of Africa, each of the ten islands has its own appeal. I visited Boa Vista with my daughter Isabella. Boa Vista offers miles of unspoilt coastline. It is a barren island but if you are simply looking for stunning beaches then Boa Vista is the perfect choice. The beaches here are some of the best I have seen although the sea is not always swimmable. We were incredibly lucky to see lots of turtles swimming out at sea & even some nests on the beaches. The time to spot loggerhead turtles is from June to September.

We stayed at the Clubhotel Riu Karamboa just a 10 minute transfer from the airport. It’s a huge sprawling complex right on the beach. I would say it is the perfect place for famillies with lots of activities going on all day long such as pool games, beach volleyball, arts & crafts, football etc. There are four restaurants, sadly they are all buffet-style however the food was of a good standard but after a week I was craving a menu to order from.

Rooms were nice and of a reasonable size.

The weather in August was superb, a constant 30 degrees with a nice breeze to cool you down. Some days were overcast but still very warm.

If you are looking for a change from the Canaries then consider Cape Verde.

Tenerife

Tenerife is the largest of the seven islands in the Canary Island group in the Atlantic Ocean.  The Canary Islands is an autonomous community independent from Spain.  Santa Cruz is the capital of the island and shares the capital seat with Las Palmas for the Canary Island group.

Tenerife has two airports, Tenerife North airport and Tenerife South airport, making Tenerife the tourism and economic centre of the island groups.

Activities

Tenerife offers many tourist activities providing family fun and pleasure in the sun.  Here are a few of them.

Water parks and theme parks are very popular on this island. There is Siam Park with a Thai theme where you can bathe on Siam beach, enjoy the rides or shop at the floating market.  Restaurants are on the premises to satisfy your hunger and you can even hire a villa or a cabana for the day.

Then there is Aqualand with its fun filled rides and a great variety of entertainment for children.  The park has a dolphinarium that holds daily dolphin shows.

There are a couple of wildlife parks where a big variety of wildlife can be seen.  Between the parks you can view primates, reptiles, large cats, exotic birds and birds of prey.  At Monkey Park you have a feeding option to include in your entrance fee which allows you to feed certain animals.

Enjoy rides on quad bikes and go karts.  Tenerife has a quad bike park of 50 acres with rough terrain, ideal for quads.  Equipment is supplied and experienced guides will accompany you on trips.  Visit the Tenerife Karting club for a go kart adventure.  It has two circuits, with one for the exclusive use of children.

Treat yourself to a submarine ride with the Yellow Submarine Safari.  Passengers aboard the submarine can experience an ocean view through large windows as the submarine travels to a depth of 60 metres from the coast.

Horse riding is another popular activity.  You can sign up for guided tours through banana plantations or ride to the mountains. Riding lessons are available if you are not up to gear with horse riding.

Attractions

Tenerife offers many guided day tours to view the most popular places, but for many of these places you need more time and make a day trip to certain locations.One such place is the Orotava Valley with the La Orotava village.  The valley is fruitful with many fruit and vegetables plantations.

The village has many historical buildings and houses and worth the visit. Masca Valley has steep and narrow paths leading there and is best explored with an all terrain vehicle, but the scenery and wildlife makes the ride worth it.  Also visit the El Teide volcano for a great view at a great mountain.

Food and cuisine

With more than 600 restaurants, Tenerife caters for every taste, but the local cuisine of Tenerife is surprisingly very normal and not as exotic as one would assume.

With many fruit and vegetable plantations, there is an abundant supply, especially of potatoes, tomatoes and bananas.  Chestnut plantations provide for a big variety of chestnuts.  In October the wineries open their doors and visitors can enjoy a taste sensation of wine and complimentary nuts and cheese.

Tenerife also has plenty of beekeepers to provide the island inhabitants and visitors with delicious honeys.  Honey is used on its own, but mostly in desserts and honeyed drinks.

Fresh fish is plentiful in the form of tuna, mackerel, sardines, sea breams and cuttlefish.  The meat lovers can enjoy exquisite traditional dishes made from pork, goats’ meat or rabbit.

Conclusion

Discover the island of Tenerife and indulge all your senses on this beautiful island. Bring the whole family as here is truly something for everybody to enjoy.

Costa Blanca

Costa Blanca means “The White Coast” and it is a region consisting of many towns in Spain.  It derives its name from the 200 kilometres of white sandy beaches on the coastline of Spain.  Costa Blanca starts at the town of Dénia and ends at Pilar de la Horadada.

Costa Blanca consists of 26 towns of which Alicante, Valencia, Murcia and Benidorm are the most famous.  The area was invaded by the Moors in 711 AD who reigned until 1095 when Spain reclaimed the throne after defeating the Moors.

Climate

The climate of the Mediterranean is ideal all year round.  Temperatures in the summer rise to within 30° Celsius and in winter the weather is mild at around 20° Celsius.  Summers are hot and dry and winters are brief with a rainfall period from November to December.  Minimum temperatures in the winter hardly ever reach below 7° Celsius.
The climate is one of the main reasons that Costa Blanca is such a famous holiday destination.  Who would not enjoy to go swimming in an azure blue sea in winter time and enjoy sun filled days of activities while other winter time regions are freezing from the cold?

Beaches

The beaches of Costa Blanca are without doubt the main attraction for vacation goers.  Unspoilt and undeveloped beaches that are enveloped by the magnificent Mediterranean Sea create a paradise for sun lovers.

The beaches are also a set-off point for many water sports and activities.  Where there are marinas available at beaches, you can safely anchor a yacht or boat.  Water activities include whale watching, deep sea diving, yachting, surfing and many more.  In certain areas you can swim with dolphins.

Many of the beaches are surrounded by magnificent cliffs and are coved in by the cliffs.  In the cliffs you will find many caves to explore and experience some of the pirate history that created an era of terror for the Spaniard for many years.

History and culture

There is no shortage of cultural and historical areas in the Costa Blanca region.  With influences from Arabs, Moors and even Carthaginian Empire, it provides for a rich history.  There are many museums in all 26 towns to provide a clear overview of the history and evolution of Costa Blanca.

Fortresses, light houses and castles are evidence of an era in the middle ages where Spain was plagued by pirates from the sea and enemy armies from the land always threatening to overthrow the Spanish empire.  Some succeeded and left behind their mark as monuments and temples.

In the end though, Spain reclaimed victory and served as the ultimate rulers of Costa Blanca.

Nature

Costa Blanca is not only famous for its glorious beaches; it also offers magnificent natural landscapes and scenery.  For the adventurer there are mountains and valleys to explore.  Safari groups offer great deals to allow the tourist to experience and enjoy the best of nature that Costa Blanca has to offer.

Cuisine

Food in the Costa Blanca region is typical Spanish.  Seafood is very popular and provide for dishes such as paellas, but the Mediterranean climate is excellent for the cultivation of a wide variety of fruit and vegetables, such as bananas, grapes, potatoes and tomatoes.

No outing to a Spanish restaurant or bistro would be complete without tapas, bread and bottle of wine exclusive to the region.

Conclusion

The white coasts of Costa Blanca are a true Spanish experience.  By day you can enjoy the activities and scenery of the region, then end your day with a sun downer on a yacht with local wine and enjoy a culinary feast provided by the host town.

Costa Almeria

Costa Almeria is located in Andalusia region in Spain.  The coastal area of Almeria is more populated than the inland due to climate differences.  The inland area is more dessert-like, dry and arid.  This may be because the fact that Almeria is one of the towns in Spain that has the most sunlight and the least amount of rain may be a contributing factor.

Historical landmarks

Almeria has a very rich Arab history.  Spain had many problems with Arab pirates that came from North Africa.  Unfortunately, natural disasters destroyed many of the original building, but many of them were rebuilt. When it comes to rebuilding landmarks with intricate plumbing requirements, Graham and Sons‘ expertise is essential, ensuring the preservation and functionality of these iconic structures. For the exceptional service you expect from a plumbing company, look no further than the plumbing services in Ohio. You may also hire this plumber from Adelaide; they provide top-notch service that can help with your plumbing system.

The Castle of Alcazaba is in Almeria and is the second largest of the Arabic fortresses.  The Castillo De Santa Anna was built in the 16^th century to protect the village against pirates.  This building is one of the many that were destroyed by an earthquake in 1804.  The building was reconstructed in 1997.  The City Hall is located within this castle and the canons on the outside are the canons used in the past.

The Cathedral in Almeria was built in the mid-16^th century and was fortified on the sides to protect against pirate attacks.  An interesting fact about the Cathedral is that it was built over a mosque that was destroyed in an earthquake.

Modern activities

Not all people are interested in history and old buildings.  To them a holiday means to do fun filled activities and spend the day on adventures alone or with their families.

There are two major theme parks, one with a Texas theme and Oasys Theme Park with an old Western theme.  Here the shops and restaurants are built as if you were in a Western town with all the saloons and quaint shops.

The Nicolas Salmeron Park is a peaceful park where you can enjoy a stroll at a leisurely pace.  The nature scenery includes impressive trees and flowers and you can enjoy the fresh air brought in from the Mediterranean Sea.

Museums

Almeria has a couple of museums where you can learn more about the town, the history and the evolution of the town.  There is a museum of photography that will prove to be a real gem to photographers.

If you like art or perhaps study it, take some time to visit the Almeria School of Art, or Escuela de Arte.  The artworks are worth it to view and art is incorporated into small, yet interesting, details.

Cuisine

Walk along the historic pathway of Paseo de Almeria.  Here you will find an assortment of cafés and restaurants where you can savour the local cuisine of the town.  Enjoy a tapa or feast on the traditional paella made from the freshest ingredients and in true Spanish style.

Spanish cuisine is known not only for seafood, but also for fruit and wine.  Vineyards are cultivated successfully in the Mediterranean climate.  Cheese and Spanish bread is a local feast and you can enjoy the cuisine best at local cafés and bistros.

Conclusion

If you like history, art and culture, or if you like adventurous outings, you can make a vacation of Almeria.  It is one of the lesser populated coastal towns and still has that old town Spanish feeling.  It is a pleasant and relaxing town to visit.

Benidorm

Benidorm is located on the coast of Alicante in Spain.  This town is known for the tall buildings and skyscraper hotels that were built with tourist attraction in mind.  It is playfully known as the Manhattan of Spain.  Despite the economic growth, Benidorm still has an old town Spanish atmosphere and qualities.

Attractions and activities

Benidorm has waterparks and aquariums that are some of the best in the world.  Try Mondumar Aquarium where you can view dolphins, parrots, seals and sea lions and other animal.

There are daily shows with the dolphins and the sea lions and you are allowed to swim with them and feed them.

The beaches are definitely one of the main attractions in Benidorm due to the white beaches, the glorious Mediterranean Sea and the splendid weather all year round.  Two of the best beaches are Levante Beach and Poniente Beach.

Enjoy the other attractions this wonderful town has to display to her visitors.  See the landscapes and waterfalls and marvel at the majestic mountains. The best way to accomplish this is to join a safari group or tour.  Marco Polo is a top company that operates in Benidorm and offer great Jeep Safaris to explore the town.  Daily tours are available, but they also offer Moonlight safaris to enjoy the nocturnal wildlife and have a pleasant barbeque along with good company.

There are plenty of landmarks to view in Benidorm. Visit the Balcon Del Mediterraneo on a large rock formation between the beaches of Levante and Poniente.  It used to be a castle to guard the town against Arab pirates in the 14^th to 16^th century.  Now it is a look-out point with plenty of benches and white stone balustrades.  Or visit the Placa Del Castell.  This historic walkway offers great restaurants and cuisine and displays the bustle of tourists by day and the vibrancy of the town by night.

Nightlife

Benidorm is a tourist paradise when it comes to the nightlife. With plenty of pubs and clubs offering beach parties, foam parties and pub crawling, you will be certain to enjoy the eclectic nightlife in Benidorm.

There is a wide variety of clubs to suit every type of tourist or local patron.

Jazz bars and karaoke bars are very popular, but the most popular should probably be the dance clubs creating the party atmosphere that the Spanish are famous for.

Restaurants and cuisine

Benidorm has a wide selection of restaurants that provide top class Spanish cuisine. Dishes from around the world are on offer at the many world famous restaurants, bistros and cafés.  The best way of course to experience the local cuisine will be to visit a local bistro or restaurant.  Choose a place where you can taste the Spanish paella or other seafood dishes.  Or enjoy a truly traditional Spanish experience at a café where you are served with traditional bread and a bottle of wine.  Enjoy it with a wide selection of cheeses that were locally produced.

Conclusion

Enjoy a wonderful vacation in true Spanish style.  You can book into one of the world renowned and international rated hotels or rent a private villa, but be sure to keep your Spanish dictionary at hand and make the most of your stay with all Benidorm has to offer.

Benalmadena

The town of Benalmadena is located in Malaga, which in turn is located in Andalusia, an autonomous community of Spain.  The town dates back to prehistoric times, but was almost destroyed in 1485 by natural disasters.  In the 18^th and 19^th century, the town experienced economic regrowth with thanks to the paper industry and cultivation of vineyards.

Weather

Benalmadena has typical Mediterranean weather.  This means the summers are long, dry and hot and winters are short and mild.  Rainfall occurs in the winter months with heavy rains that may occur in November and December.

Temperatures in summer reaches into 30˚ Celsius and winter temperatures seldom go below 20˚ Celsius.  It may get cold at night in the winter when the temperature can falls to as low as 7˚ Celsius.

Activities and attractions

Benalmadena is the perfect place for a vacation with activities to suit every member of the family. Activities range from historic landmarks and sites to modern theme parks and casinos.

The Parque De La Paloma is a fenced public park with plenty of animals for the children to view and feed.  Children can play in the activity centre in the park while the adults relax with a coffee at the cafeteria.  There is also a lake in the park with paths to and around the lake for a perfect outing for fresh air.Selwo Marina is an amusement park with marine life and birds, which is located in this park.

Book in for a cable car ride that goes to the top of Calamorro Mountain.  From here, you have a great view of the coast.  On clear days, you can also see the coast of Africa.

For a more spiritual experience, visit the Buddhist Temple.  It has beautiful views and you can relax at the cafeteria with a drink and a snack.  When you leave there, you will feel revived and relaxed by the peaceful atmosphere of the temple.

Visit the “Old Town”, or Pueblo, in the upper part of the town.  Here you can walk through buildings and houses that are all painted white.  The paths are paved with cobblestones, which leads to the town square with its beautiful flowers and shrubs and a fountain.

The oldest church in Benalmadena is the Santa Domingo church that was built in 1621.  It was remodelled twice after that and contains three naves: an exterior nave featuring the coat of arms, an Evangelical nave and an Epistle nave.

Accommodation

To experience the true lifestyle of Benalmadena, rent a villa or apartment directly from the owners.  Located in sought after areas and with beautiful views over the town and sea, it makes private rentals a very popular option.

For the more traditional visitor, there are over 60 hotels of top standard.  The most popular is the Benalmadena Palace, located within walking distance from the local promenade and close to most of the amenities and the marina.

Stay in an internationally acclaimed hotel from the Triton group and Sirocco Hotel group to ensure luxurious and unforgettable accommodation.

Conclusion

The Mediterranean towns are always popular for vacations due to the fantastic sea and Mediterranean climate.  Benalmadena is a hive of activities and local population to give tourist an unforgettable experience.

Puerto Banus

This amazing marina is one of Europe’s most coveted holiday destinations. It plays host to over 4 million visitors every year and looking at its perfect weather and wealth of attractions, one can understand why this corner of the Costa Del Sol is so popular. What you can expect here is fabulous shopping outlets, classy restaurants and bars as well as the chance to dance the night away at any one of several nightclubs.

There are also many sports to choose from for the physically active and plenty of entertainment for the kids too. Accommodation is abundant for Puerto Banus visitors and you can choose from a wide range of hotels and apartments depending on your needs and how much you’re willing to spend.

Sightseeing and activities

One of the things visitors to this resort look forward to most is the shopping experience at Puerto Banus. High-end boutiques of household names such as Gucci, Bvlgari, Versace, Dolce & Gabbana and Valentino dot the streets.

You are thus assured to find a tasteful gift for that special someone if you brought them along for the trip. Should you want more reasonably-priced stuff you can hit the Puerto Banus street market which is open every Saturday. Virtually anything you can think of is sold there from furniture and home interior accessories to bags and clothes similar to Accessoires Stitch. If you have the patience and bargaining skills you can come away with quite a steal.

Costa Del Sol is replete with golf courses and these are all within easy reach for Puerto Banus visitors. There are both miniature courses and championship courses designed by renowned architects to suit both the learner and the seasoned golfer. However, some will restrict play to only those who are members so you need to make enquiries beforehand. Bringing your kids along for the Puerto Banus experience is a good idea as they will get suitable entertainment in the slides, rides and shows of nearby theme parks and aquatic parks.

If you enjoy good music and hanging out with friends over a couple of drinks, then Puerto Banus is the place to be for your holidays.

Apart from ambient cocktail bars where you can gouge yourself on a variety of creations from seasoned mixologists, you can shake a leg into the wee hours at clubs like Dreamers and TIBV where celebrated international DJs rule the decks. There is the odd chance you might bump into a celebrity or two while having the time of your life. Think of the endless possibilities such a night can bring to your Facebook profile!

When it comes to matters of the palate, your needs will be well taken care of by elegant eateries that serve up excellently prepared dishes from around the world. Here you can choose from a selection of Italian, Greek and French specialities and eat as you gaze out onto the marina. The beauty is that there are a number of reasonably priced joints where you can still have quality meals such as the local Hard Rock Cafe and Don Leone.