Travel The World With Our Family

A Slower Kind of Stay: Our Time at Villa Lepak by the River

Sat, 18 Apr 2026 20:57:32 GMT

Why We Chose This Villa

When we were planning this part of our Bali trip, we knew we wanted a change of pace.

Ubud is known for its lush landscapes, rice fields, and slower rhythm, and we wanted somewhere that reflected that. Not just somewhere to sleep, but somewhere we could properly be for a few days.

What drew us to Villa Lepak was the riverside, jungle setting. There is something about being surrounded by nature and near water that instantly changes how a place feels. It softens everything.

We also loved the idea of a full service villa experience. When you are travelling with children, the balance between adventure and rest is important, and having that extra layer of support makes a huge difference.

Before we even arrived, things already felt reassuring.

The booking process through Villa Finder was straightforward and well managed. Communication was clear, timely, and helpful without being overwhelming. We have learned over the years that this part really matters because it sets the tone for everything that follows.

You never want to be landing in a new place, with tired children, wondering what happens next.

Here, everything was clear. Transfers, arrival details, and what to expect were all well communicated, which meant we could simply focus on enjoying the experience.

The Booking Experience

First Impressions

From the moment we arrived, you could feel the shift.

The villa is tucked away in a peaceful setting, surrounded by greenery, with the gentle sound of the river nearby. It is one of those places where you instinctively take a deep breath without even thinking about it.

The space itself is beautiful but not in an overly polished or intimidating way. It feels warm and welcoming, exactly what you want when travelling as a family.

The children immediately ran off to explore, which is always a good sign.

The Villa Itself

The layout worked perfectly for us.

Each of the bedrooms were spacious, comfortable, and thoughtfully designed, giving everyone their own space while still feeling connected as a family. This balance is something we always look for.

The outdoor areas were where we spent most of our time.

The pool quickly became the centre of our days. Morning swims, afternoon cool downs, and slower moments spent sitting nearby watching the children play.

The gardens are lush and well kept, adding to the overall sense of calm. You feel surrounded by nature, while still completely comfortable.

The Service

What really elevated this experience was the team.

There is something special about staying somewhere where the service feels natural and genuinely friendly rather than formal.

The villa was kept spotless throughout our stay, which with three children makes a real difference. Everything was quietly taken care of in the background, allowing us to fully relax.

Breakfast each morning was a highlight. Fresh, simple, and delicious. The kind of start to the day that feels easy but sets the tone perfectly.

One evening, we had dinner prepared by a private chef, and it became one of our favourite memories from the trip. Sitting together as a family, with everything taken care of, was incredibly special.

Living at a Different Pace

One of the things we have realised over time is that not every trip needs to be packed with activity.

Sometimes, the most valuable thing you can do is slow everything down.

At Villa Lepak, that happened naturally.

We were not rushing out early each morning or trying to fit everything in. The days unfolded in a relaxed way. A swim, breakfast, perhaps a short outing, then back to the villa.

Evenings were calm and unhurried.

And honestly, that is where the real value lies.

Travelling as a Family of Five

Finding accommodation that genuinely works for a family of five is not always easy.

You need space, comfort, and a layout that feels natural.

This villa delivered on all of that.

The children had space to play and be themselves, while we were able to relax without feeling like we were constantly managing the environment.

It felt like a home for those few days.

Final Thoughts

This stay reminded us of something simple but important.

Not every trip needs to be about doing more. Sometimes it is about choosing places that allow you to slow down and reconnect.

Villa Lepak gave us exactly that.

And those are the stays that stay with you the longest.

To learn more about this villa and check availability and prices, you can use the following link: https://www.villa-finder.com/en/ubud/villa-lepak-by-the-river?utm_source=traveltheworldfamily&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=kol

Kurumba Maldives Review

Thu, 26 Oct 2023 10:23:26 GMT

A Historic, Understated, Multi Award Winning Family Escape In The Maldives

Kurumba Island , a jewel nestled in the heart of the Maldives , is a paradisiacal haven that embodies the essence of tropical luxury. This picturesque island, often referred to as the 'First Resort' in the Maldives, holds a special place in the hearts of travelers seeking a serene escape. Surrounded by crystal-clear waters, powdery white sands, and lush coconut groves, Kurumba Island epitomizes the idyllic island getaway. Its luxurious resorts offer a harmonious blend of traditional Maldivian hospitality and modern amenities, ensuring that every guest is treated like royalty. Whether you're looking to snorkel amidst vibrant coral reefs, unwind with a beachfront massage, or savor world-class cuisine under the starry night sky, Kurumba Island offers an unforgettable slice of paradise that keeps travelers coming back for more. With its pristine beaches, vibrant marine life, and warm hospitality, Kurumba Island remains a dream destination for those seeking a taste of heaven on Earth.

Kurumba Resort is the ideal destination for families seeking a seamless blend of luxury and family-friendly experiences. It has not only recently won the prestigious title of 'Indian Ocean's Leading Family Resort ' but has also maintained its reputation as one of the region's top family and culinary resorts.

Kurumba Island is one of the smaller resort islands in the Maldives, covering an area of approximately 15 acres (6 hectares), offers a unique experience where you truly embrace the simplistic island feel without ever feeling isolated. What makes it special is that, despite its petite size, you still have a sense of connection to the outside world as you gaze upon the distant skyline of Malé. This juxtaposition of serenity and the subtle reminder of urban life on the horizon creates a one-of-a-kind atmosphere, making Kurumba Island an ideal choice for those seeking a peaceful yet not entirely remote Maldivian escape. Despite its compact size, Kurumba Island offers a range of luxurious amenities and a stunning natural environment, making it a popular choice for travelers seeking a tranquil escape in the Maldives.

Getting There

Kurumba Island is strategically located in the North Malé Atoll of the Maldives, just a short 10-minute speedboat ride away from Malé International Airport. This prime location makes it not only easily accessible but also a convenient choice for travelers arriving in the Maldives. The island's proximity to the capital city of Malé ensures that guests can swiftly transition from the hustle and bustle of city life to the serene and tranquil atmosphere of this tropical paradise, after a long international flight from their original destination. Kurumba's central location within the Maldives and proximity to Malé International Airport is a true blessing for travelers and serves as a fantastic starting point. Unlike many other resorts in the Maldives, where guests may have to spend a night in Malé due to limited transfer options, Kurumba's short 10-minute speedboat ride means you can arrive at any time of the day or night. This flexibility ensures that your dream vacation can begin the moment you step off your international flight, allowing you to maximize your precious time in this tropical paradise, without unnecessary delays or overnight stays in the capital city.

Accommodation

Kurumba Island in the Maldives offers a diverse range of accommodation options to suit various preferences and budgets. The island boasts a variety of luxurious villas, with some allowing guests to wake up to the tranquil sound of the Indian Ocean just outside their windows. These villas often come equipped with private pools and direct access to the turquoise waters. For those seeking a more traditional Maldivian experience, their bungalows offer spacious rooms right on the beachfront or nestled in lush tropical gardens, ensuring privacy and relaxation. Kurumba Island provides a variety of family-friendly options, making it an ideal destination for travelers with children. Regardless of your choice, all accommodations on the island promise easy access to the pristine beaches and vibrant marine life, that make the Maldives a coveted paradise for vacationers.

We stayed in the Garden Pool Villa , which offers a serene and private retreat amidst lush tropical gardens. These beautifully appointed villas are designed to provide a tranquil escape, featuring two spacious bedrooms with modern amenities, a private outdoor patio, and a refreshing plunge pool for relaxation and cooling off in the Maldivian heat. This option features a King Size bed and two daybeds, which can be used as two single beds. An extra single bed or cot can also be added, due to the roomy 124 sqm size. Guests can unwind in their own little oasis, surrounded by vibrant vegetation and the soothing melodies of nature. The Garden Pool Villa at Kurumba Island combines comfort, luxury, and natural beauty, providing an idyllic setting for a peaceful getaway in this stunning tropical paradise.

Gastronomy

Kurumba Maldives has earned a well-deserved reputation for its exceptional gastronomy, making it a culinary haven in the heart of the Maldives. With a diverse range of dining options that cater to every palate, from international cuisine to traditional Maldivian flavors, Kurumba's culinary experiences are truly unparalleled. The resort has consistently received accolades and awards for its outstanding food, showcasing its commitment to excellence in every dish served. Guests can savor fresh seafood, sumptuous buffets, and delectable a la carte offerings, all in stunning settings that enhance the dining experience. Whether it's a romantic beachside dinner, a family-friendly meal, or a taste of global gourmet delights, Kurumba Maldives continues to set the bar high for culinary excellence in this tropical paradise.

Dining at Thila Restaurant, is an utterly enchanting experience that transcends the boundaries of ordinary dining. Picture yourself seated at elegantly arranged tables, softly illuminated against the backdrop of the night sky, on decking that stretches out into the crystal-clear waters. As you indulge in world-class cuisine, the mesmerizing sight of sharks gracefully gliding by beneath your feet adds a touch of thrill to your culinary journey. The restaurant's attention to detail is unparalleled – from the menus aglow with soft light to unexpected delights from the chef that tantalize your taste buds. These thoughtful touches transform every meal into a captivating and utterly unique adventure, making dining at Thila Restaurant an unforgettable highlight of the Kurumba Resort experience.

During our stay, we had the pleasure of dining at several other restaurants, including Khing Thai , Mahal , and Al Qasr . These dining experiences were nothing short of breathtaking, with each restaurant exquisitely decorated. Conveniently situated next to one another, they beckon you to explore a new culinary adventure every evening. Each establishment offered expertly crafted dishes made from fresh ingredients and authentic recipes that transport your taste buds to the very heart of the cuisine's country of origin, making you feel as if you've been welcomed by locals.

Kurumba provides a delectable and diverse array of dining options available throughout the day, each thoughtfully tailored to meet the needs of your children. Beyond offering specialized menus designed for the little ones, the staff at Kurumba goes the extra mile to accommodate special requests and even make alterations to dishes when needed. They frequently go above and beyond by arranging for meals and additional items to be sourced from other restaurants, ensuring that every dining experience is a delightful and accommodating one for your family.

Undoubtedly, the culinary experience was the crowning jewel of our stay. We are in awe of the talented individuals behind the scenes, from the Food and Beverage manager to the creators of the exceptional menus and the ambiance of the restaurants. It's truly among the finest dining experiences we've ever had. Kurumba is a gastronomic melting pot, where each dish is a vibrant celebration of flavors, and this is why you absolutley must visit on the 'Dine Around All-Inclusive' meal plan . You cannot visit this gastronomic wonder and not experience what it has to offer. Whether you prefer the intimacy of in-room dining , a romantic beachfront dinner for two , or an adventurous exploration of the eight distinct restaurants within Kurumba, the food here is a journey of its own.

Things To Do

Kurumba Island is a treasure trove of experiences and activities that cater to a wide range of interests and desires. From pristine, white-sand beaches for tranquil relaxation to vibrant coral reefs for world-class snorkeling and diving, this tropical haven offers something for everyone. All you need to decide, is if you chill or play!

Swimming & Snorkelling

The warm, calm, and crystal-clear shallows make this island the perfect spot for children to paddle, play, swim, and even dip their toes into snorkeling . You don't need to venture far from the shore to witness the wonders of the ocean, as the reef sharks, in particular, frequent the sheltered coves of Kurumba. These friendly sharks will welcome you in even the shallowest of waters, helping even the most apprehensive family members become acquainted with these often misunderstood creatures.

The lagoon at Kurumba Maldives is encircled by protective wave breakers, ensuring tranquil snorkeling conditions by minimizing waves and currents. The water here maintains an average depth of 1 to 1.5 meters, with numerous small coral formations that play host to a thriving marine ecosystem. Just beyond the protective breakers, a dramatic underwater landscape unfolds, featuring an even greater diversity of coral formations teeming with vibrant fish, elegant stingrays, and graceful sea turtles.

At Kurumba, they provide complimentary snorkeling equipment and life jacket rental. You can also take advantage of free snorkeling lessons, not only to sharpen your skills but also to learn how to preserve the precious reef and be aware of any local risks. The Majaa Recreation team offers guided house reef tours for beginners, multiple times a week. Bookings are essential, and charges apply. This experience helps you gain confidence, make new friends, and become familiar with the house reef. For a unique perspective, they also offer night snorkeling, allowing you to discover the reef in an entirely different light. Photography aficionados can indulge in underwater photoshoots and even rent a GoPro for capturing their aquatic explorations.

Relax

Kurumba's pristine, white-sand beaches offer a haven of tranquility and relaxation, beckoning you to unwind in the lap of tropical luxury. The resort provides an array of facilities and amenities to ensure that your beach experience is nothing short of perfection. Comfortable loungers, shaded umbrellas, and attentive beachside service allow you to bask in the sun or find respite in the shade at your leisure. The resort is a serene paradise, graced by beaches that encircle the entire island, but to further enhance your comfort, the resort reserves sunloungers on the beachfront that are dedicated to your villa or bungalow, ensuring your stay is as blissful as can be.

Kurumba presents a sanctuary of relaxation and rejuvenation with its inviting pools and world-class spa facilities . The resort boasts a selection of exquisite pools, each designed to cater to different preferences. Whether you prefer a tranquil dip overlooking the ocean, a family-friendly pool for the little ones to splash in, or a more secluded adults-only option for peaceful solitude, Kurumba has it all. Additionally, the spa facilities at Kurumba are nothing short of exceptional. Offering a range of therapeutic treatments, holistic therapies, and wellness experiences, the spa provides a harmonious escape to unwind and revitalize amidst the serene beauty of the Maldives. Your journey to pure relaxation begins at Kurumba's pools and spa facilities.

Keeping Active

If you're seeking the perfect blend of relaxation and active leisure during your holiday or have a passion for tennis and wish to enhance your skills, you will be pleased to know that Kurumba have partnered with the internationally renowned Sunball Tennis Academy to offer comprehensive tennis courses for both beginners and advanced players. Additionally, the Majaa Recreation team, named after the local word for 'fun,' is conveniently located in the heart of the island. They're always at your service, ready to assist guests in choosing from a wide range of activities spanning Wellness, Fitness and Sports. Moreover, they've curated a seven-day activity schedule to ensure guests are consistently entertained throughout their stay.

In the realm of fitness, guests can engage in TRX training , utilize the 24-hour gymnasium, or opt for bodyweight workouts to stay active. For sports enthusiasts, the options are equally enticing, including two floodlit tennis courts and opportunities for tennis partners, a versatile multi-purpose court for activities like Futsal and basketball, along with options like table tennis, billiards, air hockey, fussball, and darts.

Additionally, art and craft enthusiasts can enjoy creative pursuits like coconut painting, canvas painting classes, napkin folding, and the intricate art of coconut palm leaf folding. Whatever your passion, Kurumba provides a wealth of engaging activities to ensure an unforgettable experience.

Water Sports & Scuba Diving

Kurumba Maldives stands out as a premier destination for snorkeling and diving adventures . PADI certified instructors open the door to a captivating underwater world teeming with marine life and stunning coral formations. Here, you'll witness playful schools of fish, magnificent shafts of sunlight, and even the occasional reef shark encounter. The resort collaborates with world-renowned diving company Euro Divers, offering an array of expertly-led courses and tours. Within a short boat ride, you can explore incredible dive sites like Manta Point, wrecks, and thrilling drift dives. The Diving Centre is fully equipped with state-of-the-art gear and nitrox for an exceptional diving experience. Courses cater to divers of all levels, and even kids aged 8 and 9 can get a taste of scuba diving with the Bubble Maker program. For first-time divers, the Discover Scuba Diving experience provides an introductory course, followed by lagoon and house reef dives to hone your skills. Kurumba Maldives ensures that everyone, from novices to experts, can immerse themselves in the beauty of the Maldives' underwater paradise.

Kurumba Maldives offers an exhilarating world of water sports and adventures that will leave you breathless with excitement. Feel the thrill as you speed across the waves on a jet ski, hanging on for dear life while the wind whips through your hair. Or opt for a leisurely paddle in a kayak, feeling free as a bird while you explore the atoll. Balance on a catamaran, soar high above the crystal-clear waters while parasailing, or take on the challenge of wakeboarding. The possibilities are endless with a range of water sports facilities, including canoeing, water skiing, windsurfing, snorkeling, and even surfing in the North Malé Atoll, known as one of the world's prime surf spots. For a unique adventure, embark on a Jet Ski Safari to explore hidden reefs and pristine spots while t heir experienced guides share local wisdom. It's an environmentally friendly approach to jet skiing, providing unforgettable experiences while preserving the serene beauty of the Maldives. Don't miss out on these unforgettable water adventures during your stay at Kurumba.

Excursions

Kurumba offers an array of enriching excursions to enhance your Maldives experience. Explore a remote island with pristine beaches and vibrant reefs on the Sandbank Picnic. Immerse yourself in Maldivian culture and snorkeling during the Maldivian Experience. Capture the beauty of the underwater world with the Glass Bottom Boat ride. Discover the history and culture of Male, the capital city, on the Malé Tour. Experience the thrill of fishing at sunset or test your skills with Big Game Sports Fishing. And for a breathtaking spectacle, embark on the Sunset & Dolphin Discovery Cruise, where you can witness playful dolphins leaping in the backdrop of a stunning sunset over the Indian Ocean. Kurumba's excursions offer unforgettable memories in this tropical paradise

Majaa Kids Club

Kurumba's Majaa Kids' Club provides a perfect haven for your little ones, granting you the freedom to relax and enjoy your stay. This spacious recreation center is designed for pure enjoyment, offering a range of activities that keep kids smiling all day long. From traditional craft-making with local materials to beachfront games and exciting new discoveries, the kids are in for a world of fun. At Majaa Kids Club, t heir team ensures children aged 4-13 years are entertained seven days a week. With a schedule filled with outdoor adventures like snorkeling lessons and sandcastle building, exploring a traditional Maldivian house, and indoor activities like arts and crafts, painting, puzzles, and even movie time, there's never a dull moment for the young ones. They'll return to you in the evening brimming with stories and begging to return for more tomorrow.

For teenagers seeking an unforgettable holiday experience, Kurumba Maldives offers an enticing range of activities through Majaa Teens . Here, your teen can relish a resort vacation of their own, with exciting opportunities year-round. With a dynamic schedule brimming with something new every day, teens stay constantly engaged right within the resort. From thrilling excursions and watersports to outdoor pool table games and interactive experiences in the Wii and PlayStation Pods, there's never a dull moment. Beach volleyball, tennis, yoga, Zumba, swimming lessons, aqua aerobics, and even a movie cinema ensure that teens have a fantastic time. These activities, including marine life presentations and painting classes, promise to make their stay at Kurumba Maldives a memorable and enriching experience.

Bars & Entertainment

Having experienced Kurumba's bars and entertainment firsthand, I can genuinely say it's a paradise for the senses. Athiri has a casual beach vibe, giving you the pleasure of sipping cocktails while watching the sun dip below the horizon. At Fez , we were enveloped in the ambiance of elegant Arabic design, indulging in a delightful variety of flavored shisha as we shared special moments, all while sipping colorful cocktails. Kandu , with its open-air pavilion and relaxing day beds, set the scene for tranquil afternoons and vibrant evenings, where we enjoyed the best live bands and DJs that the Maldives has to offer. Kurumba's bars and entertainment truly create an unforgettable island experience, and I can't wait to return. Whether it's watching soothing sunsets or enjoying lively nights, the bars at Kurumba create unforgettable moments, complemented by live entertainment and cultural showcases that truly celebrate the rich heritage of the Maldives.

Summary

Our stay at Kurumba Maldives was an absolute dream come true. The pristine white-sand beaches, the crystal-clear waters, and the breathtaking marine life made it a tropical paradise like no other. From relaxing by the beach to thrilling water adventures, every moment was filled with excitement and serenity. The dining experiences were a culinary journey of a lifetime, and the resort's warm and attentive staff made us feel like family. With a wide range of activities for both adults and kids, and the mesmerizing bars and entertainment, our stay was unforgettable. Kurumba Maldives, with its incredible facilities and stunning natural beauty, truly exceeded our expectations, leaving us with cherished memories and a desire to return.

Whether you're drawn to the natural beauty, cultural discoveries, or thrilling adventures, Kurumba Island provides an abundance of unforgettable experiences for every visitor. You can check out Kurumba's offers here or click to check prices here.

Kuramathi Maldives Review

Tue, 15 Aug 2023 12:06:59 GMT

Our Favourite Luxury, Family Friendly Island Resort In The Maldives

About The Island

Welcome to a tropical paradise that feels like a dream brought to life - Kuramathi , the stunning island jewel nestled within the turquoise waters of the Maldives. As if painted onto the canvas of the Indian Ocean, this idyllic destination boasts unparalleled beauty, where sugar-white sandy beaches meet swaying palm trees, and vibrant coral reefs teem with a kaleidoscope of marine life. Whether you seek blissful relaxation, thrilling water adventures, or simply a tranquil escape from the bustling world, Kuramathi offers an enchanting sanctuary that captivates the heart and soul of every traveler fortunate enough to grace its shores. Here we will unveil the allure and magic of this extraordinary island, where tranquility and natural wonders intertwine to create an unforgettable Maldivian experience.

Kuramathi is a breathtaking atoll renowned for its unparalleled beauty and captivating history. Located in the Rasdhoo Atoll, Kuramathi is part of the Alif Alif administrative division of the Maldives, a nation composed of 26 atolls spread across the Indian Ocean. This mesmerizing island has a rich historical background, with traces of its past intertwined with the Maldivian culture. While its exact origins are shrouded in mystery, the island has been inhabited for centuries, witnessing the rise and fall of ancient maritime civilizations and experiencing the influence of various cultures that traversed the Indian Ocean's trade routes. Today, Kuramathi stands as an extraordinary destination that not only embraces its past but also offers an enchanting blend of luxury, nature, and relaxation, making it a perfect haven for modern-day travelers seeking an unforgettable tropical getaway.

Kuramathi Island is approximately 1.8 kilometers (1.1 miles) in length. Walking from one side of the island to the other take around 30 minutes, depending on your pace and the specific route you take. This compact size allows for easy exploration and convenience, ensuring that you can seamlessly move between different parts of the island to enjoy its various attractions and activities.

Getting There

Getting to the island of Kuramathi in the Maldives is an adventure that sets the stage for an unforgettable journey. Situated approximately 56 kilometers west of Velana International Airport in Malé, the capital city, reaching this tropical paradise involves a scenic and convenient seaplane or speedboat transfer. Travelers can choose to board a picturesque seaplane that offers breathtaking aerial views of the atolls and turquoise waters below. The seaplane journey to Kuramathi showcases the natural beauty of the Maldives, creating an anticipation of the paradise that awaits. Alternatively, a swift speedboat transfer is available for those who prefer a direct route, whisking visitors away on a journey of around one hour and fifteen minutes across the crystal-clear waters, surrounded by the endless expanse of the Indian Ocean. This is usually included in the price of your trip when booking direct with the resort and the cost of the upgraded seaplane transfers is detailed on booking if choose this. Regardless of the chosen mode of transport, the voyage to Kuramathi Island promises to be an exhilarating introduction to the marvels of this idyllic destination.

Before booking your international flights to the Maldives, it's essential to be aware that seaplane and speedboat transfers to the island have specific operating hours on certain days. If you arrive later in the afternoon or evening, you might need to spend a night in Malé before the transfers to the island resume the following day.

The Sandbank

The sandbank of Kuramathi Island stands as a shimmering testament to nature's artistry, adorned with fine grains of white sand and embraced by the gentle waves of the Indian Ocean. Its true beauty is magnificently evident, especially during the magical moments of sunset. As the sun dips below the horizon, casting a warm and golden glow upon the surroundings, the sandbank transforms into a realm of ethereal beauty and tranquility. The rarity of having such a large sandbank on a Maldivian island makes Kuramathi even more exceptional. Unlike many other islands, where one might have to take a boat to witness this marvel, Kuramathi Island's sandbank is a precious gem within arm's reach, making it a cherished haven for those seeking the epitome of island beauty.

Accommodation

Kuramathi Island Resort offers a diverse range of accommodation options that cater to every traveler's desire for luxury and comfort amidst the tropical paradise. From spacious beachfront villas that allow guests to step directly onto the powdery white sands to overwater bungalows that provide uninterrupted views of the mesmerizing lagoon, the resort's offerings are nothing short of extraordinary. Couples seeking seclusion and romance can indulge in private pool villas tucked away amidst lush vegetation, while families can find spacious beach houses with ample room to create cherished memories. For those yearning for direct access to the crystal-clear waters, water villas perched above the turquoise lagoon offer an exclusive and intimate experience. With a variety of styles, designs, and amenities, Kuramathi Island Resort ensures that every guest's stay is tailor-made to fulfill their dreams of an unforgettable Maldivian escape.

The two-bedroom beach houses in Kuramathi Island are a perfect haven for families or groups seeking a spacious and luxurious retreat amidst the paradisiacal surroundings. These beachfront accommodations offer the best of both worlds - direct access to the pristine sandy shores and lush vegetation, creating an idyllic tropical escape. The elegantly designed interiors exude comfort and sophistication, providing a true home-away-from-home experience. Each beach house features two separate bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms, ensuring privacy and convenience for all guests. The spacious living area opens up to a private outdoor terrace, where you can bask in the gentle sea breeze and savor breathtaking ocean views. With modern amenities and thoughtful touches, the two-bedroom beach houses at Kuramathi Island offer an unforgettable stay,

Gastronomy

Kuramathi Island Resort offers a truly unforgettable gastronomic experience that delights even the most discerning food enthusiasts. With an array of dining options, guests can embark on a culinary journey across the globe. From delectable Maldivian delicacies that celebrate the flavors of the Indian Ocean to international cuisines like Italian, Asian, and Mediterranean, every palate is catered to with finesse and creativity. The resort takes pride in using the freshest local ingredients, some of which is grown on the island, ensuring each dish bursts with authentic flavors. With talented chefs at the helm, guests can expect culinary artistry that complements the stunning island surroundings. Whether it's a romantic candlelit dinner on the beach or a casual meal with friends and family, the diverse dining experiences at Kuramathi Island Resort leave guests with cherished memories.

Dining at Kuramathi Island Resort is an enchanting experience as much for the setting as for the cuisine. The resort boasts a collection of remarkable restaurants, each offering a unique and awe-inspiring ambiance. Imagine dining under a star-studded sky at the iconic beachfront restaurant, the gentle sound of waves caressing the shore as you savor tantalizing seafood creations. For those seeking a tranquil escape, the overwater restaurants present a surreal setting, where diners can relish their meal while gazing into the turquoise waters teeming with marine life. The lush tropical gardens host charming restaurants with an intimate atmosphere, perfect for a romantic dinner surrounded by the beauty of nature. Whether it's the breathtaking sunset views or the underwater wonders, each restaurant at Kuramathi Island Resort elevates the dining experience to new heights, creating memories that linger long after the meal is over.

Kuramathi Island Resort stands out among its peers as one of the few resorts that offers two distinct types of all-inclusive packages, ensuring a personalized and unforgettable dining experience. The resort presents a range of thoughtfully crafted dining packages to suit various preferences and occasions. The "All-Inclusive" package provides an effortless and indulgent experience, encompassing a delightful selection of meals, snacks, and beverages throughout the day. Guests can savor gourmet dishes at the main restaurant, indulge in refreshing cocktails at the resort's bars, and enjoy sumptuous treats by the poolside. This package caters to those seeking a seamless and satisfying dining experience.

For those who wish to take their stay to a higher level of luxury, Kuramathi Island Resort offers the "Premium All-Inclusive" package. This elevated experience goes beyond the ordinary, featuring additional benefits such as access to exclusive dining venues where culinary masterpieces are paired with stunning vistas. Guests can also relish premium spirits and enjoy spa discounts for a truly indulgent retreat. Whether one chooses the "All-Inclusive" or "Premium All-Inclusive" package, Kuramathi Island Resort's commitment to fulfilling every guest's dining desires remains unwavering, promising an exceptional and memorable culinary journey in breathtaking settings.

Things To Do

Water Sports and Activities

Kuramathi Island beckons adventure enthusiasts with an array of thrilling water sports and activities . Dive into the kaleidoscopic underwater world with snorkeling sessions that reveal the captivating coral gardens and marine life. For a unique perspective, embark on a mesmerizing submarine tour, allowing you to explore the depths in unparalleled comfort. The turquoise waters also invite you to windsurf, kayak, and paddleboard, while jet skiing provides an exhilarating rush over the waves. The island is a playground for water-based excitement , offering unforgettable experiences for all.

Boat and Fishing Trips

Discover the allure of the open sea with boat and fishing trips that unveil the captivating beauty of the Maldives. As the sun sets, embark on a breathtaking sunset dolphin cruise, witnessing these graceful creatures in their natural habitat against the backdrop of the evening sky. Delve into the island's maritime culture by joining fishing excursions, casting lines into the azure waters and connecting with the traditions of local fishermen. These boat journeys promise not only picturesque vistas but also cultural connections that make your time at Kuramathi Island truly enriching.

Relaxation and Island Exploration

Kuramathi Island offers a haven for relaxation amidst stunning natural beauty. Stroll along the soft sandy beaches and sandbanks, each step unveiling panoramic ocean views and soothing breezes. Bask in the sun's warm embrace while lounging on pristine shores or by trying out the various pools scattered across the island. For those intrigued by the island's diverse ecosystem, a visit to the eco centre provides insights into the underwater realm's wonders . Take leisurely walks through the island's nature walks , where you can marvel at exotic plant life and lush landscapes.

Serenity at the Spa and Culinary Delights

After all the adventures, find your sanctuary at the resort's spa , where rejuvenating treatments are set against the backdrop of the serene Indian Ocean. Indulge in massages, therapies, and relaxation rituals that will melt away any remaining stress. As the day transitions into night, Kuramathi Resort's dining experiences take center stage. From romantic beachside dinners to private picnics beneath a starlit sky, the culinary offerings ensure that every meal is a memorable occasion.

Bageecha Kids Club

Kuramathi Island ensures that the younger adventurers have a world of excitement waiting for them too. Their Kids Club - Bageecha is the best we've ever experienced and offers a safe and engaging haven for children to explore their creativity and curiosity. With a variety of age-appropriate activities, little ones can embark on treasure hunts, arts and crafts sessions, and even mini cooking classes. The dedicated team of staff ensures that kids have a memorable and educational experience while parents indulge in their own island pursuits. From outdoor games to indoor storytelling, the Kids Club at Kuramathi Island ensures that children have their own slice of paradise, fostering friendships and unforgettable memories.

Additionally, for parents seeking a relaxing escape, the resort extends thoughtful babysitting services. Whether you choose to have your children enjoy the activities at the Kids Club or prefer the comfort of your private residence, you can rest assured that your little ones are well taken care of. This thoughtful service allows parents to immerse themselves in the island's offerings, knowing that their children are in safe and capable hands. Kuramathi Island truly caters to families, ensuring that every member of the family has a memorable and fulfilling vacation experience.

Summary

Our family stay at Kuramathi Island was nothing short of a dream come true. From the moment we arrived, the island's breathtaking beauty captured our hearts, and its warm hospitality embraced us like old friends. The days were a whirlwind of adventures, with our children experiencing the best Kids Club we've ever encountered.

Our family's days were filled with laughter as we explored the azure waters through snorkeling and embarked on exhilarating boat trips, witnessing dolphins playfully dancing in the beautiful blue water. Tranquil moments on the island's soft sandy beaches and sandbanks allowed us to unwind, soaking up the sun's warmth and marveling at the beauty of the Maldives.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, we gathered for enchanting beachside dinners beneath a starlit sky, savoring the culinary delights that Kuramathi Island had to offer. Each meal was a celebration of flavors, making every dining experience a cherished memory. Our family's time at Kuramathi Island was a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and togetherness. The island's magical charm and the genuine care of its staff ensured that our stay was an unforgettable chapter in our family's story, a chapter we will revisit in our hearts for years to come.

Ready to experience the wonders of Kuramathi Island for yourself? Visit their website to explore more information, discover pricing details, and plan your dream holiday in paradise. Whether you're seeking a relaxing family getaway, thrilling water adventures, or simply a tranquil escape surrounded by natural beauty, Kuramathi Island has it all. Don't miss the chance to turn your vacation dreams into reality – click here to check out their website and start planning your unforgettable journey today!

Wigwam Holidays - The Ultimate Dog Friendly Staycation. Glamping For Any Season

183:718469410 (Clare Fisher) — Tue, 13 Dec 2022 11:53:26 GMT

Wigwam Holidays - How It All Started

Incredible Views Over The Landscape From The All Year Round Hot Tubs

Wigwam Holidays are a company that offer incredible glamping experiences in over 80 stunning locations in the UK. Being from Wales and wanting to see more of it, we chose the famous Aberystwyth, but if you want to explore some of the other 80+ destinations in the UK, click here .

As a family, we absolutly love the Wigwam Holidays mission and where the brand started. It's not something we would usually talk about, but it's important. More and more as we travel, we notice the stand out differences of holidays provided by companies and people that really want to make a difference. The staycation market in particular here in the UK, is saturated with uninspiring, corporate, outdated and over priced options, so to discover a company like Wigwam Holidays, a sustainable company inspired by a great childhood, with such incredible purpose and values, is truly exciting to us.

In 1989, CEO and founder Charles Gulland, created the first of many designs for a sustainable cabin built from forest thinnings. He created the original camping 'pod', so the Wigwam Cabin, is the product of continued innovation and an ongoing dedication to quality craftsmanship and sustainable living and travel. Charles grew up in the countryside and like many of us had limited TV, no internet, computers or mobile phones. Life was rich and full of adventure, swimming, fishing, building dens, camping and cooking sausages over fires lit from scavenged twigs. It's the experiences we want to share with our family in nature, but the ones that become increasingly hard to find. That is Charles' and the Wigwam Holidays mission, to provide affordable, Great Holidays in the Great Outdoors and boy have they achieved this!

Wigwam Holidays Aberystwyth

One thing we noticed even before arriving at Wigwam Holidays Aberystwyth , was the warmth and attentiveness from the owners of the site. Although we were given lots of information on the website and on booking, I just had a few questions I wanted to shoot over, to make sure I was fully prepared before we left home. The owner Angela, got right back to me and went above and beyond to make sure that our stay was absolutely perfect, from start to finish. The Wigwam Holidays sites are not huge and many like this one, are working farms or small business owners that have bought into the Wigwam Holidays franchise, so the owners are really able to give guests and the accommodation itself, the time and care they deserve, which we feel makes all the difference to a holiday! This made us particularly excited and confident to try other locations in the UK.

The location of this particular site is truly breathtaking, tucked away on a quiet hillside meadow, with uninterrupted views across the Rheidol Valley. A handful of beautiful Wigwam's are lined up along the edge of the hill facing the stunning 360 degree views, meaning no matter where you are inside or outside your cabin, you're guaranteed to find yourself mesmerised by the scenery.

Choosing A Wigwam

There are a variety of Wigwam's, with different features and facilities, depending on your budget and what you want from your holiday. Naturally, a smaller number of adults travelling, going for a smaller Wigwam and without a hot tub for example, will get you the lowest price holiday available. The great thing is, adding children and dogs to these bookings, only adds a small amount to the quoted fee (you can see the increase as you add them). You can also keep the costs of your holiday down by taking your own food and making use of the cooking facilities in your Wigwam, as opposed to eating out. You can save further by taking your own towels and avoiding adding any extra fire wood and bedding to your booking. If you're not on a tight budget though, we highly recommend treating yourself to a Wigwam with a hot-tub! Sitting in one of these outside, especially in the thick of winter, sipping your favourite beverage and gazing at the views or stars, was absolutely the highlight of our stay. Adding towels onto the booking is also recommended! It is one less thing to think about and they were super large, soft and fluffy! Especially if you're a bigger family like us, it saved us valuable room in our car and it meant we didnt have to bring wet towels home with us.

All the sites are different, so it's best to check out your chosen sites location on the Wigwam Holidays website and select the 'Facilities' page in the search bar. Not only does it list the types of Wigwam's and everything they offer, it's also got a helpful list of 'What To Bring' and 'On Site Facilities' like fresh eggs for sale or 'bike shed storage available'. When you have an idea of which Wigwam is best for your holiday, simply enter your selected dates and number of people you're booking for at the top of the page, and it will bring up all the available Wigwam's for those dates, with prices.

If there was something in particular you wanted from your accommodation, like a hot-tub, accessible or a dog friendly Wigwam and you cannot see one, it may just be unavailable for those dates. You could always get in touch directly with the site or have a jiggle of the dates, to see if other options become available. Remeber, the holidays are popular and the sites are not huge, so to avoid disappointment, it is best to book as early as possible. There is a deposit option available up to 28 days before arrival if you want to secure your dates without paying in full. You can book your holiday with as little as 25% deposit (note: the full balance must be paid before arrival and all deposits are non-refundable).

Our Wigwam - Y Rheidol (Accessible with Hot Tub- Dog Friendly, Sleeps 5)

Our particular Wigwam slept 5 and was accessible, with a wet toilet/shower room. The single sofa bed closest to the patio door folds out to make a double, adding that fifth sleeping space to the four you see in the photos above. One set of bedding is provided with your booking, but we opted for the additional bedding package, because we were arriving late and I didn't want to fuss with making up the other beds on arrival. To reduce costs, you can take your own sheets and/or sleeping bags and pillows if you have them. If opting for the bedding package, you will find everything ready made up for you, in the drawers beneath the sofa beds.

There is a heater inside which made the Wigwam lovely and warm and you can adjust this as you need. There are also heaps of plug points to charge or power any devices you take along and a TV with access to Netflix.

Below is a full list of everything our lodge included, but it's worth double checking the cooking facilities of your lodge before you buy food. Some lodges have an oven, but we noticed ours didn't have one when we arrived, so this may affect what food you choose to buy and cook during your stay.

Despite being a dog-friendly Wigwam, there were absolutely no signs of previous dogs using the accommodation and Ian didn't struggle at all with his asthma like he sometimes does in dog-friendly accommodation, which means it's likely a lot of people probably also book these lodges without dogs. We also noticed the health safety stamp on booking, stating that the lodges are given a deep-clean in between bookings. Our Wigwam was immaculate on arrival, which is particuarly comforting during these times of Covid.

The outdoor spaces are beautifully kept and ours not only featured a dining bench and hot-tub, it also included a fire pit which you can also use as a bbq. A lot of the time on camping/glamping trips, fires and bbq's are strictly prohibited, which in my opinion, is one of the best things about this type of holiday! It is so refreshing to see a holiday company, not only recognising this, but providing everything you need to enjoy these during your stay. You can even purchase the fire-wood and marshmallows on site.

There is a large open green space for the children to play outside the Wigwam's and they even have a ball and football goals. This particular site will soon also have children's swings and a sand pit, for the time you do spend on site.

Your booking includes fire-wood to heat your hot tub. It may not quite be up to temperature by the time you arrive, but it doesn't take long. You can purchase more fire-wood to heat this during your stay if need be. Only fire-wood purchased on site can be used for the wood oven to heat the tub, or it could damage the system. Full instructions of how to use the hot-tub and everything you need to know about your Wigwam, can be found inside your Wigwam on arrival, but if you're unsure about anything, the owners are super helpful and there if you need them.

Aberystwyth - The Area, Local Restaurants And Activities

Just seven miles from the university town of Aberystwyth and the stunning coastline and only four miles from the wilds and wonders of the Cambrian Mountains, Wigwam Holidays Aberystwyth is the perfect base to get out and explore. There are a wealth of things to do in the area, so it is really worth sitting down and not only researching what is about, but also planning your time to make the most of it. You can have a little browse of some of the local recommendations here , but inside your Wigwam, there are also lots of leaflets for local activities and sights and additional places listed inside your welcome book. Wigwam Holidays Aberystwyth enjoys views over the Rheidol Valley, Cardigan Bay and north to Cadair Idris and the majesty of Snowdonia if you're simply looking to relax and enjoy the views.

As a university town, you would expect a variety of great pubs and eateries and you’d be right. Here you can enjoy some delicious meals to suit any and all tastes, and with the close proximity to the sea, there’s a strong focus on local seafood. Besides eating and drinking there’s a lot to keep you busy. See the sights by strolling along the seafront, or find a whole new perspective by hopping on the Aberystwyth Cliff Railway. To learn more about the local and national history in the National Library of Wales or the Amgueddfa Ceredigion Museum - both wonderful places to spend an hour or two and step back in time.

Closer to the Wigwam Holidays Aberystwyth site, things are a little quieter, but within a short driving distance, there are a number of pubs and restaurants serving delicious food. Some of these are extremely popular, so to avoid disappointment, it is best to book ahead and check the opening times, as some are seasonal or close earlier in the day/evening.

Devil's Bridge Waterfalls

Devils Bridge Falls is a world famous waterfall trail that is an absolute must visit during your time in Aberystwyth. There is a fee to pay on entry and you can choose from two different trails, ‘the short walk’ and ‘the long walk’. Dogs and small children/babies are allowed on both trails, you just need to ensure you supervise them carefully at all times. The steps are very steep and slippery on both and some are even loose, so the elderly may want to reconsider both, depending on their mobility and risks of falling, but everyone needs to take care.

The short walk: isn’t really a walk at all, it’s a number of steep steps down to a viewing platform and back up to a small area with some educational information about the falls and some fun photo stand ins and sculptures. The view from this particular trail though is like something out of a fairytale. It’s truly beautiful and is completely different to what you will experience on the other trail, this is why we recommend doing both if you have the time.

The long walk will take around 35-45 minutes depending on how many stops you take for rest and enjoying the view. It is however, not for the faint hearted. Both walks can make you nervous if you’re afraid of heights, but the long walk at times, will make your heart skip a beat with the gradient of the steps and drops. Again though, you will be rewarded with some views as you turn a corner, that will take your breath away. There are educational pieces and other fun features as you walk around, including an arched bridge that you have to walk over.

Summary

If you're planning a Wigwam Holidays trip, try not to worry too much about the weather. You may already know that the forecast is not always great in the UK (even in the Summer) and when it is, you can't really rely on it anyway! The forecast was awful for our time away, but we made the decision to go anyway and although we had a little rain, for the most part we were blessed with clear skies and sun. That is not to say you will get the same, but we would have been truly regretful had we cancelled based on the weather prediction. It's always worth taking wellies, waterproofs and layers on UK trips, so if you dont get the best weather, it shouldn't impact you getting outside too much. It won't stop you using the hot-tub, it's wet in there anyway and you may even be lucky enough to get some snow!

Now we’ve covered the details, I can talk about just how incredible the Wigwam Holidays experience is. Spending time together in this compact space in nature, that isn’t dominated by technology, has brought us all closer together. We got heaps of fresh air and exercise and made memories that we will cherish forever. It’s everything I had hoped we would get from our time at Wigwam Holidays Aberystwyth and more and we cannot wait to experience more of Wigwam Holidays stunning locations around the UK.

Summer Season - Pine Cliffs Resort, A Luxury Collection Resort in the Algarve

183:718469410 (Clare Fisher) — Wed, 17 Aug 2022 00:29:38 GMT

Summer Season 2022 at Europe's Best Luxury Family Resort

You may remember that we spent some time here at Pine Cliffs, A Luxury Collection Resort, back in Winter 2019 ( you can read our blog from this visit here ). It was by far, one of the most luxurious experiences we've ever had, really living up to that award as Europe's Best Luxury Family Resort.

That European luxury just oozes a different kind of class when done right and they have really nailed it at Pine Cliffs . We always knew we would return, and this time, we wanted to experience the resort and its offerings, during the Summer Season.

To gain access to the beach from the hotel, you need to walk to the decking on the cliff edge and catch the lift to the beach level. There you will find the most beautiful path down to the beach front, that meanders through the stunning cliffs. There are a few steps on the way, so it's better to leave wheelchairs and prams at the top if possible. During peak seasons, the hotels beach restaurant is open and there are also a variety of different sunbed options, if you're looking for a bit of comfort and luxury. The beach during this Summer period is bustling with life, but you don't have to walk far to find some peace and quiet. Just a few hundred yards from the hotels beach entrance and it feels like you're on a secluded island. Wherever you decide to pitch a spot, those incredible sandstone cliffs will have your jaw, dropping to the floor!

Our Apartment - Ocean Suite Garden View

During our last visit we stayed in a beautiful, spacious one bedroom, garden suite. We absolutely loved the self catering features of this room and we were keen to do something similar this time, especially with a toddler in tow. This time we decided to try the brand new Ocean Suites and we were absolutely blown away with the space and design of this apartment. All the suites are individually furnished to the highest quality, with relaxing living areas, state of the art technology and stylish en-suite bathrooms. In addition to two bedrooms, it boasted an elegant, fully equipped kitchen and dining area with seating for six, that looked out over a private balcony with spectacular views.

Here is a full list of services and amenities for our two bedroom, garden view Ocean Suite:

Concierge

Laundry Service

Ocean View Available

WI-FI

Mini Bar

Pay TV

Babysitting

When we arrived, a high chair and a cot had already been placed in the room for us and we were pleased to find water in the fridge and all the basics in the kitchen, so that we could start using it right away, including washing up liquid, tea towels, sponges, dishwasher and even washing machine tablets for the washer dryer. If or when you are ready to get some shopping in, the resort has a small supermarket directly outside the entrance of the resort, which is extremely convenient.

Restaurants

Pine Cliffs have a fine selection of restaurants and lounges. Naturally, not all are open during the quieter Winter months, so we were excited to return during the Summer, to be able to experience more of them and as expected, they didn't disappoint! To view a full list of drinks and dining options with menus, click here . With a choice of twelve restaurants and lounges to choose from, serving a variety of international and local cuisine, you are spoiled for choice. Our absolute favourite restaurant from our stay was Maré. Having said that, despite eating lunch and dinner at the resort's restaurants during the majority of our stay, we still didn't try them all! The resort's Japanese restaurant, Yakuza Algarve By Olivier, is the best in the area and somehow, we couldn't fit it in! It is a brilliant excuse to go back however....

If the views from Maré don't impress you (and I am sure they will), then the food absolutely will. There is just something so authentic about eating fresh local fish, outside with a beautiful sea view and a salty breeze. The setting is absolutely perfect and the service isn't far off either. We love that the resort have a partnership with local fisherman to support them and sustainable fishing. It's exciting to choose from a selection of fresh local seafood in the restaurants display fridge and when you've finished, good luck trying to avoid their delicious gelato selection!

Dining at Pine Cliffs is more local and authentic than ever, with national producers, ingredients and services that reinforce Portuguese pride.

Children's Menus

There is a small, but varied selection of children's meals available at each of the restaurants, all beautifully prepared and come as generous portions if you are concerned that a child's meal may not satisfy older children. If however, for some reason they do not like the options, there is no doubt that you will be able to find them something they like on the adult menus, all of which are really good value. You could even create your own dish from the stunning selection of mouth watering sides and starters. We did make a few small requests for alterations to some dishes for Abel and the staff were always more than willing to accomodate.

Kids Activities

MIMO Algarve

During our first visit in 2019, we did a family cooking class at MIMO Algarve and it was one of our all time favourite experiences. We have taken cooking classes all over the world, in some of the best five star resorts there are, and this was one of the best. After arriving at MIMO and enjoying your welcome drink, you will get stuck straight into preparing the highest quality, delicious ingredients, supervised by the most talented chef. Each of you, including the children, will prepare your courses yourselves from start to finish, so that you can really learn, guided every step of the way, and when you're finished, you will sit down together and enjoy the fruits of your labour. When you're eating it, its really hard to believe that you prepared something so delicious! Each time, this class has truly sparked a love and confidence for cooking in the children, that they took home with them and we thoroughly enjoyed the activity with them as parents, without the stresses and pressures of home life.

Junior Club

I don't know about you, but my children are just not interested in 'kids clubs' anymore. This is only a very recent thing with Maddie who is now eight, but at ten years old, Kallan hasn't wanted to get involved for a while. After speaking to them, they seem to dislike some of the activities and would prefer to mingle only with children of similar ages, which is totally understandable. So we were delighted to learn, that during the peak seasons, Pine Cliffs run a 'Junior Club', which caters especially for children aged between 6 and 12 years old. They can enjoy a huge variety of activities like mini-golf, football, crossbow, aim shooting, water ball, darts, disc bowls and much more! A weekly program is available during the festive and Summer months and the activities can be enjoyed with parents, which I absolutely love. To see what's on in the Junior Club, click here .

Sports Academies

Junior Golf Camp

Pine Cliffs is home to a number of famous sports academies, with world class facilities and it's great that the children benefit from this. The Junior Golf Camp is available from Monday to Friday between 3.00pm and 5.00pm, suitable for ages between 7 and 18 years old. To see the different packages and prices available, click here and scroll to the bottom of the page.

Annabel Croft Tennis Academy

If Golf isn't their thing, Pine Cliffs is also home to one of the most recognised tennis academies in Europe, the Annabel Croft Tennis Academy. There is a selection of different premier courts available, whether you're looking to book a court to play as a family, or get involved in one of the fun clinics for guests of all ages and skill levels. Players wishing to play tennis at Pine Cliffs Resort, can choose from a range of coaching, organised and conducted by a qualified team of coaches. The academy programme has a wide selection of coaching courses available for both adults and children which cover all aspects of the game and are a great way to improve your tennis. You can click here , to read more information, or download the brochure.

Estima Sports Football Academy

If Tennis isn't their thing, then maybe football is! Pine Cliffs is home to the Estima Sports Football Academy, offering daily classes and different focus every day. This was Kallan and Maddie's favourite arranged activity of our trip. When the session finished, the first thing they asked, was "can we go again tomorrow?" At the end of each week, the players are able to put into practice, everything they have learned in a tournament. There are 3, 5, 7 or 10 day packages available. To learn more, click here .

Porto Pirata

Porto Pirata is over 7000sqm of fun for the whole family. It's a secure area, supervised by experienced and well-qualified staff, where children enjoy their own adventures, complete with two life size wooden pirate ships, a bouncing castle, basketball court, mini track for big-wheel toys, scooters and bikes, a swimming pool just for kids, and an 18-hole mini-golf course and much more! In addition to daily activities like finger painting, arts and crafts, treasure hunts, water games, face painting and various sporting activities, there are designated areas to celebrate birthday parties. Some of the activities are seasonal, so it could be worth contacting the hotel to find out the dates these are available. A lot of the activites are complimentary to guests and others have an additional charge. To read more about this area, click here .

Pool Areas & Serenity SPA

One of the most important areas of a resort to any family, is the pool area. We personally spend a lot of time there, so if the pool area is all wrong, it has the potential to massively impact our holiday! Thankfully, as a guest at Pine Cliffs, you have a whopping eight pool areas to choose from, so you're spoiled for choice. They aren't all open all year round, so it's a great idea to check this with staff on arrival and have the free Pine Cliffs app downloaded ready, so that you can figure out the locations of the ones that are open, on the map.

Although we had beautiful weather during our first visit in the Winter, we hadn't quite expected it, so only planned a short time at just one of the resorts pools. This time we were keen to explore a bit more and planned much more pool time to cool off in the Summer temperatures. The baby pool above is situated right next to the pool pictured above it, so this is a fantastic area for families. It has got a real modern vibe with heaps of space, plenty of umbrellas and beds and it even has a little 'Zest' food and drinks bar. Although we still didn't get to see all the pools at the resort, this one was definitely a popular choice with the kids, becuase it was so close to our reception area. It is also positioned right next to Serenity SPA, so this is a great spot to spend the day, if you have any treatments lined up.

If it's open during your stay, you just have to spend some time at the pool area near O Grill, pictured in the top right corner. Although this area is a little out of the way, its definitely worth the walk or golf cart ride. We were absolutely blown away by the traditional beauty of this spot. The striking cypress tress, comfortable sun lounger cushions, stunning views of the golf course and trickling water fountains just screamed class and it felt like we were in someone's luxury private mansion, rather than a resort. This was before we even heard the talented live singer that entertained us with her songs and before we set eyes on the beautiful dangling twinkling lights of the restaurant that serves delicious food through the day, so no need to move from this spot if you want to spend the day here. It also benefits from a small baby pool, so another great area for families!

Serenity SPA is officially, Europe's Best Wellness Spa and during my last visit, I was lucky enough to experience "the most unique and luxurious treatment" I have ever had - the eighty minute, 'Senses Of The Algarve'. You can read all about this in our first blog, but I was keen to try something new this time. I have always been fascinated with learning more about CBD and its benefits for the human body, so when I saw the Spa were offering a new and innovative, CBD Body Calm treatment, I was excited to give it a go. It is a fifty minute, vital body massage, that through the technique of the masseuse and the healing properties of the oils, reconnects a positive flow of energy, restores balance and leaves your mind, body and spirit calm and soothed. To read more about the CBD treatments available, click here . I loved the oil so much, I purchased it after the massage from the Spa reception so that I can continue to feel the benefits at home.

If you're thinking, 'should I visit in the Summer or Winter months?', I would honestly say, any time of year is just excellent, but a visit during the different seasons, definitely offers a different experience. While the resort was busier during the Summer, even at it's busiest, the design and sheer size of the place, means it never feels busy, but if you're visiting to experience one of the resorts famous wellness retreats , you may prefer to do this, when they are more popular during the quieter off peak times. The Algarve is a great place to visit for some Winter Sun, so I wouldn't hesitate to visit again for that sunshine, but if you're looking for a beach and pool holiday, the cooler pool and sea temperatures are definitely what you need on those Summer days. If you're a big foodie, the variety of options will definitely appeal to you during the Summer months, as will the wide range of children's activities, but with so much for them to do during the off peak season too, a visit at any time of the year is guaranteed to provide a whole lot of family fun and memories.

EasyJet Holidays Has Launched!

Mon, 09 Dec 2019 10:30:33 GMT

It was a well kept secret until launch day, so it's a day you probably didn't all know you were waiting for, but one you will be glad is finally here, easyJet Holidays has launched!

One of the things we get asked the most is, "how are you able to travel so much, with children in school and busy working lives?" One of the things we do, is make the most of our free time by traveling at the weekends! easyJet make this possible for over 20 million of their customers, with more weekend flying than anyone else, but we all still spend a lot of time planning our travels! easyJet holidays are offering us all a solution to our planning paralysis, by giving us the option of pairing easyJet flights, with Europe's most loved hotels!

Did You Know?

Did you know us Brits spend the equivalent of a whopping 15 weekend breaks planning a holiday over our lifetime, BEFORE we even book it! That's right, we spend an average of seven hours before we book anything, searching for the best deals, because we love a good deal! We also have a lot of specific things we look for in a hotel, and searching for those things takes a lot of time! So while the amount of holidays we are taking is going up, with one in three of us going on more holidays than we did three years ago, also increasing is the amount of time we spend searching and planning!

According to research, we love the convenience that the package holiday offers, with it still being the preferred way for Brit's to travel! 46% of us love the ease of being able to book everything in one place, and 37% of us love the security that comes with them, but what we don't love, is their lack of flexibility! We have a demanding list of criteria that needs to be met, with the right location topping our list of priorities, WiFi ranking just as important to us as a hotels food and drink offering, and WiFi is also surprisingly more important to us than a hotels star rating!

It is clear people have changed, what they want has changed and travel has changed! easyJet Holidays have transformed the package holiday, by giving us everything that we love about them, with the flexibility we're looking for! They offer us:

    Great Value
    Convenience
    Security
    23kg bag, plus a cabin bag for adults and children
    Transfers for beach holidays
    A choice of over 5000, hand-picked European hotels
    More weekend flying than any other airline
    A choice of short breaks, 5, 7 or 9 night holidays
    A brand new easy to use website
    A choice of over 100 destinations

We put their new service to the test, by booking a holiday to Kraków, Poland. Here is what happened!

Our easyJet Holidays Expereince

The first thing we loved, is the brand new easyJet holidays website! It is neat, informative, easy to use and doesn't have a ton of ads that pop up, when you're navigating through the different pages and options! This is more than I can say for other websites we've browsed offering package holidays.

If you're feeling a bit uninspired, you will probably love the website's heaps of suggestions and options just as much as we did! They even have an 'Undiscovered Holidays' option, with hotels that we would find difficult to discover on our own. It was browsing these destinations that inspired us to visit a new country, for our first ever easyJet holiday!

The easyJet holidays website saves you time scouring google! They've done all the hard work by providing information about a destination when you select one, along with a list of best attractions to see, good dates to visit, tips for your trip and more!

Why am I going into so much detail about the website? For us, it is the one thing that has the biggest impact on our decision making while booking a trip. You can call and speak to an easyJet holidays expert, but if you're like us and prefer to book everything online, actually using the website is one of the ways for us to determine if easyJet Holidays can in fact, save us some of those seven hours on average we spend, planning a holiday.

You can click here to browse the website for yourself, but our conclusion, is that easyJet holidays definitely does deliver on saving time and everything else they promise to do! One of our biggest frustrations when booking hotels online, is not being able to book as a family, even though the hotels claims to be child friendly. Sometimes we can spend hours searching for the right hotels, only to be told on their website, that we need to book two rooms in order to accommodate us as a family. I then either have to email, call or start an online chat to actually reserve a room and/or arrange extra beds etc. You will often read one of our hotel reviews, and notice that I clearly state, "If booking as a family, it is best to call the hotel direct." Thankfully, you don't have this problem with the easyJet holidays website. You can see after I start a search for a trip to Poland below, it clearly displays the family friendly options. Everything you need to know is neatly displayed and is even assisted with a helpful Trip Advisor rating!

At this point, you can 'view holiday' to see more of the hotels information, photos and location on the map. If something doesn't quite suit you, you can browse the other recommended hotels. If you are searching for hotels for two adults, you will of course open yourself up to a lot more options.

Although easyJet holidays is a new business, it is linked to easyjet, who we know and love for their low-cost airfares. As easyJet customers, this gives us confidence that the package holiday's provided by the new holiday company, will be good value. We also love that you can also book a holiday with deposits, from as little as £60pp to secure your holiday price!

When you've booked your hand-picked hotel, you've got the comfort of knowing everything is in one place with ATOL protection, your 23kg bag allowance per person and transfers for beach holidays are included, and you can still enjoy the perks of easyJet's quick and easy online check-in before you depart!

Did easyJet Holidays Deliver On Our Trip?

easyJet Flights

We enjoyed the usual quick, easy, stress-free and pleasant service with easyJet. We had smiles when we got to Bristol, with pleasant staff asking the children about their holiday plans. Although our kids usually just stare at people with their mouths open when people try talking to them, it was nice of them to make them the effort! There was no queue and we checked in within minutes.

We were called to the gate on time and particularly loved that they look after families with young children, by inviting us all to join the speedy boarders! Although it never takes a long time to board with easyJet, it's nice they do this and they do it every time! Any parents will probably tell you, that queuing for any amount of time with children, isn't their favorite thing to do! If I had a penny for every time Maddie has unhooked and hit someone with one of those pully fabric barriers at an airport while standing in line, I would be rich!

We had some rowdy stags on board the plane with us, which we expected choosing a popular stag destination, but we appreciated the staff asking them to keep the noise down. I wouldn't let this discourage you from choosing Kraków for a holiday. It is not unusual to be on board any flight with stags and hens, traveling to popular City destinations in Europe, but we actually didn't see any while we were out and about!

Disembarking the aircraft and collecting baggage on both arrival into Kraków and Bristol, was a lot quicker than I remember! It has been some time since we had the luxury of checking in a 23kg bag, as you know the allowance doesn't come as standard when booking a flight alone. It was so nice not having to pull down heavy carry on cases from the overhead lockers, and lug them all the way from the plane to the airport! We are looking forward to having this luxury again!

Niebieski Art Hotel & Spa

We absolutely loved our hotel with amazing views, right on the Vistula River! The hotel was a long walk or short taxi drive from some of the most popular spots in the centre of town, which is exactly what we look for. It had a boutique feel inside with unique and quirky art scattered throughout, with newly decorated themed rooms to choose from. The service was fantastic, from the hotel reception to the restaurant staff! They went above and beyond for us, making calls to our tour operators and taking special requests for food, they couldn't do enough for us.

The breakfast was great, with some options that the children really loved and some of our British faves! The hotel has some great dining options with a small Italian restaurant with the option to take away pizza, and when you come to Kraków, you have to book a table at the hotels popular restaurant, Vanilla Sky . The food here is special, you only have to see the photos of the food, to appreciate the thought that goes into these artistic dishes. They taste as good as they look and the value is crazy! The food here, was a real highlight for us.

We were delighted with our stay at Niebieski Art Hotel & Spa , we can see why easyJet holidays has selected this hotel and it has got us excited to experience some of their other choices!

Kraków, Poland

We can't wait to check out some other easyJet ' Undiscovered Holidays ', as they inspired this trip. Poland is not a destination we would usually go for, especially with typically warmer choices for this time of year like Greece and Morocco, but Kraków really charmed us with it's Autumn colours, beautiful architecture and surprisingly balmy temperatures for mid November!

We saw some famous spots like Wawel Castle and the Main Square, we rode electric scooters along the riverside, we stumbled upon good finds, like the cutest little park for the kids and hunted down some hidden gems, like the coffee shop on the roof of the Academy of Music , with epic views over the City. We didn't see everything we wanted to in the time we had, but we would prefer to be spoiled for choice of things to do and see!

We couldn't travel to Kraków without visiting Auschwitz, it is a place we have always wanted to visit. We booked a half day tour , which left in the morning from one of the bus stops in the centre. As we drove closer to Auschwitz, the atmosphere changed. The landscape seemed to drain of colour, it got cold and the fog came in. It's almost as if the evil that took place there, won't leave. Within minutes of the tour starting, I was in tears. It was educational, but was also an emotional experience, one that we are all truly glad we had.

With just a two hour flight from the UK, we are looking forward to see more of Poland and Eastern Europe and we are looking forward to our next easyJet holiday!

We were gifted an easyJet holiday and asked to share our experience, providing an honest review. We do not earn money when you book an easyJet holiday or when you click the links on this website. The research quoted in this article was commissioned by easyJet holidays. Thank you for reading, we hope you enjoyed!

Hotel Rangá, The Ultimate Iceland Experience

Thu, 28 Nov 2019 22:01:51 GMT

If you have always dreamed of witnessing the stunning natural beauty of Iceland, you've probably already had a little browse for flights and hotels online. You may recognize one or two brands in the Reykjavik area, but for the most part, the hotel scene in Iceland is quite unique, with different kinds of privately owned properties, dotted sparsely in different areas. For these reasons, you have to do your research, but don't worry guys, we did it all in preparation for our visit! That's right, we looked at all the hotels, their reviews, their food, their facilities, prices and where they are located in relation to Iceland's most popular tourist spots. We quickly realized, that you can either choose somewhere to get your head down, or you can pick a hotel that will totally enhance your experience, and that is exactly what Hotel Ranga did. This is not the only fantastic hotel on the island, but it was our top pick! One of our community said it best, after we shared The Hotel Ranga experience through Instagram.....

Location, Location, Location

Hotel Ranga is located just off The Golden Circle. This is a sightseeing route in Iceland, which will take you around some of the countries most popular spots.

But here is the thing, there is so much more to see than the Golden Circle sights! In fact, we were more excited about some of Iceland's other attractions, choosing to see only three on the Golden Cirlce. The amount of things you are going to be able to squeeze in, will very much depend on where you base yourself during your Iceland trip. Reykjavik is a wonderful place. We would definitely recommend spending one or two nights there like we did, before moving further South to Hotel Rangá. It will allow you time to experience the City, maybe catch a whale watching tour while you're near a port, and you're also closer to some of the great things North of here, like Budir Church, Bjarnafoss Waterfall and Kirkjufell.

While we didn't mind packing up to move accommodations once, we also didn't want to spend the whole trip moving to and from different hotels, especially with children. And while driving around the country admiring the beauty from inside your warm, dry car is definitely part of the experience, you don't want to spend the majority of your time driving. So for these reasons, Hotel Ranga's central location was perfect and being out there in the countryside, it allowed us to experience the real Iceland! It put us ten minutes driving time closer to Kerid Crater, the first stop on the Golden Circle, but put us a whopping one hour and twenty two minutes closer to Iceland's famous black beach, Reynisfjara and things like Solheimsandur Plane Wreck.

You've also got Skogafoss waterfall a short 46 minutes away, and Seljalandsfoss is just 20 mintues around the corner! After our visit to Skogafoss, we had planned to hit another two attractions, but we didn't anticipate how wet we would get! We were able to make the drive back to the hotel, change and warm up, before heading back out, to visit the other places! With a four and a half hour round trip from Reykjavik, we would never have been able to do that if we had stayed in the City.

But that is not it! If you're planning to head further East, to see spots like Diamond beach, you're looking at a ten hour round trip from Reykjavik. Driving from Hotel Rangá, you can make it to Diamond beach in three hours and thirty three minutes! Click here to see some more of the suggested attractions on The Hotel Ranga website.

Some other things we hadn't considered, that made us happy we chose Hotel Ranga as our base was:

Unplanned stops - We definitely made our fair share of unplanned stops along the way, and thanks to our central base, we never felt too strapped for time to do this. Toilet breaks, snacks, change of clothes, photo opportunities and patting Icelandic horses at the road side, are probably all things you're going to want to stop for.

The weather - You can plan around this as much as possible, but the weather can be unpredictable and harsh. As well as increased driving times in severe weather, you might be faced with road closures, especially in the winter. You will probably also spend time in the car waiting for breaks in the wind and rain. All of these things can take more time out of your day, and make you grateful for a shorter drive back to your hotel.

Hiking times - While you're factoring in time to drive to and from the things you want to see, you have to make sure you leave enough time to hike if needed. A lot of attractions are at the road side, but the plane wreck for example is a 75 minute walk each way. The less time you're driving in the car, the more time you have to hike and the more things you get to see!

Tiredness - We loved Iceland and although it was exciting and beautiful and everything in between, it was also exhausting! If you can cut your drive times down it will help with this a lot, especially if you want to have enough energy to stay awake at night to catch the Northern Lights!

Daylight - We visited in September. The sun rose early and didn't set until around 7.30pm, meaning we had plenty of daylight hours, but if you're visiting in the winter months especially, staying central will help you to see as many of the sights as possible while it is still light.

To view our full Iceland itinerary and read why it's so important to have a car to explore this wonderful country, you can read our 'Road Tripping Iceland With Europcar' blog.

The Northern Lights & Star Gazing

The Northern lights are observed from late August to mid April, but you have the best chances of seeing them from late September, to late March. Keeping an eye on the aurora forecast will give you the best chance of seeing them, but they are also known to be a little unpredictable, sometimes appearing for a few minutes and then disappearing. Of course, you also have the weather to battle with, as you can only seem on clear nights.

Staying at Hotel Rangá in season, will give you the best chance of seeing them! The last thing we wanted to do was drive around at night after a long day, trying to find them, especially with children. Hotel Rangá is known as a great place to witness the lights and it's isolated location, gives you uninterrupted views, and absolutely no light pollution! They don't even have outside lights for the hotel or car park. So while you might want to take extra care maneuvering at night, you will be rewarded with a fantastic viewing experience.

The Hotel's aurora wake up call feature in each of the rooms, will further increase your chances of seeing them. This absolutely blew our minds and we were so excited to use it! You can activate it with the push of a single button on the phones in your room, and then the hotel will wake you if the lights make an appearance. Imagine sitting in this hot tub outside your room to watch them! It is probably the ultimate Icelandic experience. To read more about viewing the Northern Lights at Hotel Ranga, click here , or to view the live feed of the aurora borealis from the Hotel Ranga Northern Lights Live Cam, click here .

The hotel have an 'Age Of Aurora 2019-2020' offer, to help you save big on a four night stay and enhance your odds of seeing the wonderful Northern Lights! Click here to view the offer.

Don't forget about star gazing! The hotel has its own observatory with Iceland's most advanced roll-off roof and the best high quality astronomical equipment, including the biggest telescope in Iceland. It is just a short walk from the main building and if you're lucky to stay on a clear night, you might even catch the astronomer that the Hotel invites along! There are a number of other places to watch the starts and lights, just take your pick! To see photos and read more about star gazing at Hotel Ranga, click here .

Hotel Ranga have put together a great 'Stargazing 2019-2020' offer. To see everything that is included, click here .

Rooms

Apart from deciding what to eat off the menu, the hardest choice you will have to make at Hotel Ranga, is which room to book! The hotel offers themed suites after the seven different continents, but also offer Deluxe and standard rooms, suiting different budgets, in different parts of the hotel, with different features. It is so exciting to have so much choice! We personally chose one of their Deluxe rooms on the ground floor facing the Ranga river, with one of the hot tubs outside. We knew the kids would love having easy access to it and we were able to supervise them, without having to be in it all the time! You will see the North America suite below, but we also really loved the Africa and Antarctica Suites! To see photos of the different rooms, click here .

All the rooms have tea and coffee facilities, but the special touch was the complimentary hot chocolate! The kids especially loved this. You can even request fresh local milk as needed. The free Wifi was fantastic, which we were just not expecting out there, and the huge T.V. had access to Netflix! We enjoyed cuddling up for family movie nights after exploring all day. The day we visited the black beach not too far from the hotel, it popped up in the scene of a movie we were watching! With guests always having access to the hot tubs, there were always clean and dry robes, slippers and fluffy white towels placed ready for you in the room.

If you're looking to book as a family, get in touch with the hotel direct to book, so that you can arrange for extra beds in the room. You can either use their online chat, which pops up when you click on their website , you can call on (354) 487 5700 or email on hotelranga@hotelranga.is

Book direct and you will receive a bottle of specially selected Prosecco!

Communal Areas & Activities

One of the first things we noticed about Hotel Rangá was how warm it is! Even in the Summer months it can feel chilly outside with the winds, so there is nothing better than walking back into a toasty hotel, with cosy rooms. Especially with the cabin like decor, it makes everything feel so homely!

If you're looking to get out of the room, the hotel has plenty of areas to relax! Most of the rooms have outside patio areas with table and chairs or access to the balcony, but if it is too chilly outside for you, you can kick back in one of the two bar areas. There are also some cute little corners dotted around, where you can sit and admire some of the Hotel's fantastic art work.

When the kids were not using one of the many outside hot tubs, their favourite place to chill was in the games room! As well as the pool table, they had chess and lots of other games! This was such a lovely place to be, that we made sure we took a full rainy, drizzly day out of our schedule, to rest and enjoy the hotel fully.

Restaurant & Fine Dining

Our dining experience at Hotel Ranga, was nothing short of incredible. It was important for us to choose a base with good food, because we knew we would be eating there the majority of the time. Iceland isn't exactly filled with hundreds and hundreds of cafe's and restaurants around every corner, and we didn't want to spend our time searching out places and driving to them. Having a good breakfast to set us up for the day and having good food to come back to after a long day out, was important to us, so we did a lot of research about the food here.

Breakfast was a big hit with the whole family! As well as a buffet style continental spread with cereals, fresh fruit, sweet things, fresh juices, meat and cheese, you could order a fresh selection of hot foods. We recommend the full cooked breakfast, which they were happy to tailor for our fussy eaters. Everyone's highlight of breakfast though, was the waffle machine on the buffet! With ready made waffle mix in little jugs, the kids loved watching us make them fresh waffles, before covering them in Nutella. As it is a small hotel, you don't have the rush of guests and a jam packed restaurant, so it was lovely not having long waits.

We settled our hotel bill the night before we left, because we had an early hour departure in the morning. The receptionist asked what time we were leaving and notified us that, they would have a packed breakfast waiting for us on reception when we left. We were able to choose what we wanted from a selection of prepared cold food, which included bottles of water and juice cartons. This was a massive help for us as a family with children on the 1hr 53 min journey to the airport.

The restaurant is in a beautiful part of the building, central to the hotel, with stunning views over the river. The service was impeccable throughout our stay, the kind of standard you expect with fine dining, very professional, knowledgeable and helpful. The hotel has several different menus appropriate for the time of day and kind of food you want to eat, so you don't have to leave the hotel. The wine and bar list is extensive and the staff were able to recommend something suitable for each meal. The children are able to order smaller versions of the options on the a la carte menu, if they would like to eat from there, but the hotel also have a children's menu with some of the kid's fave options like, chicken chips and salad. We are not talking about unhealthy, processed chicken nuggets here, we mean succulent, fresh chicken breast that melts in your mouth. To check out the hotel's different menu's click here.

The evening a la carte menu has a wide variety of perfectly prepared, creative and delicious dishes for starters, main course and dessert. It is the kind of menu that makes you want to order everything, so you're excited to return the next night and try something different. The menu has some exotic options including Puffin and Reindeer, but if you're feeling like something a little more familiar and relaxed, the a la carte menu has dressed up some classics like fish and chips. The hotel often has a seasonal gourmet menu, and you may even be lucky enough to stay during some other events, like their famous Christmas buffets.

Some of the offers we've mentioned include dining options at the hotel and can help you save big when you stay for longer periods. To check out the hotels current offers, click here.

Hotel Rangá are offering all of our readers 20% off their best available rate! You can receive your discount by using the code 'CAMP-RANGA' at the checkout, when you book through their website.

We were provided with a complimentary experience by Hotel Rangá, in exchange for sharing the experience with you. We not earn money when you click the links on this webpage or when you book the hotel using the code we have shared with you. We are extremely proud to present Hotel Rangá to you, and we are excited to hear all your stories from your visit :)

Flying Out Of Luton Airport?

Sun, 10 Nov 2019 19:24:25 GMT

'Park Here, Fly There' with Courtyard by Marriott Luton Airport

If you are frequent flyers like our family, consistently searching for flights out of different UK airports, you may have noticed some competitive flight fares going out of Luton in recent months. Despite having never flown from Luton before, we didn't hesitate to snap up some great deals from this airport!

Wales has only one international airport, which has been in decline for many years. Although things seem to be looking up for Cardiff Airport recently, we still find the air fares pricey, and you're still limited with destinations. As a result, people who live in Wales are used to traveling to English airports to fly. Although Bristol and Birmingham are much closer, sticking on the M4 for an extra hour or two, doesn't feel like too much hassle for the extra options, and lower fares you can get from the London airports. If you're hesitant about flying from Luton, you really shouldn't be, especially if you've managed to bag yourself Courtyard by Marriott Luton's 'Park Here, Fly There' offer.

'Park Here, Fly There' Package

Courtyard by Marriott Luton's 'Park Here, Fly There' package, not only offers quick and easy parking less than one mile away from the airport, it allows you to start your holiday prematurely with a stay in the hotel! This deal gives you overnight accommodation in Luton airport's only four star hotel and on-site car parking through your trip, starting at just £81! You can choose to take your over-night stay before you travel, or on your arrival back to the UK, and you can choose from between four, eight and fifteen nights car parking.

We have taken this package twice in the last few weeks and to date, it is the most convenient airport parking, we have used in the UK. The hotel is located less than one mile from the airport, with access to the car park straight off the main road, with no barrier, making for a speedy entrance and exit. The car park has security camera's and combined with the fact it is directly in front of the hotel lobby, which is constantly manned, it felt very secure! There are no allocated spaces, you pick a clearly marked space and park up, its that simple! The terminal is within walking distance, but the hotel can also arrange a taxi for you, or you can catch the shuttle bus, which cost less than £4 for all four of us. The bus will take you the very short distance to the terminal, they run very regular and the bus stop is located on the main road, literally outside the hotel! Although this is not a private shuttle, we have found it to be more reliable than the private services we typically use. We knew exactly when and where we had to wait for it outside the hotel, and we didn't have to search for it outside a busy airport, when we got back to the UK. We simply had to make our way to the allocated stop, which is conveniently located directly outside the exit of the airport. Naturally, as a public service with a small charge, transporting people with flights to catch, it's a very reliable service and traffic wasn't a worry, with such a short distance to travel. The timetable for the shuttle is printed at the check in desk and you can grab one and keep it. As you can see from the photo, there is an easy check-in screen for your car and you get to keep your key, as your car is parked securely in the same place you leave it through your whole trip, another weight off your shoulders! On our return to the UK, we literally jumped off the bus, walked meters to our car and literally pulled out of the hotel minutes later. No searching for our car among thousands of other cars in the freezing cold, waiting in a queue for someone to move our car or give our key back, or finding a machine to pay and then losing the ticket within seconds!

The best thing about an overnight stay before you fly, is being able to start your holiday a little earlier! There is nothing better than being able to casually make your way to your hotel near the airport, a day before you depart, knowing that you can enjoy a relaxing evening with some food and drinks. You can lay down your head at night, knowing your minutes away from the airport, no stressful drives, risk of traffic and carrying all the stress from your journey over into your holiday. If you've got a flight early hours in the morning like we had, if you're traveling far to get to Luton, or if it's your first time flying from this airport, you might enjoy an overnight stay even more!

The Courtyard by Marriott Luton is brand new and family friendly, with the option of family or inter-connecting rooms like we had. Our rooms were immaculate and spacious, with handy USB points at our beside and super fast free WIFI. The service was quick, efficient and friendly on both check in and check out, which is always the most important thing for us, especially at the airport. We opted to take our night stay, before our holiday, as we had a flight early hours in the morning. The restaurant next to the lobby, serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, depending on what time you arrive. On check in, we were pleasantly surprised to learn that the early bird breakfast starts at 4.30am, so we all managed to grab a quick bite to eat before we left! The Courtyard by Marriott Luton had a lovely spread with lots of choice for an early bird breakfast. We recommend the gooey chocolate muffins!

We had to leave the hotel at around 4.40am to make our flight, so we managed to get a good few hours sleep in at the hotel beforehand. Had we decided to drive to London that night with no hotel, we probably wouldn't have slept at all. We only had four nights in Morocco, so although we were a little tired from the early start when we arrived at around lunch time, we were able to make the most of the rest of the day.

One of the most appealing things about this package is the value! When you start looking at hotels of a lower standard and parking rates nearby, it doesn't take long to realize, why The 'Park Here, Fly There' package with Courtyard by Marriott Luton sells out fast, so book as soon as you can to avoid disappointment. To go straight to the offer page to check if your dates are available and get a quote, click here . If you're wanting to book inter-connecting or family rooms with this package, you can call the hotel directly on 01582 218555 and quote promotional code KF5. The friendly reservations team are always happy to help with any specific requirements. You can also click here for a link to the global numbers for Marriott reservations.

We were gifted the 'Park Here, Fly There' package in exchange for an honest review. We do not receive money when you click the links in this blog, or when you book the package.

Road Tripping Iceland With Europcar

Tue, 01 Oct 2019 11:53:06 GMT

Hiring A Car, Our Itinerary And Driving Around The Land Of Fire And Ice

In our opinion, there is only one way to travel around Iceland, and that's by hiring a car with a trusted company like Europcar . A lot of sightseeing is done from the car window, as you're driving through the epic landscape. This really was one of the highlights for us, we have never seen anything like it! Every corner we turned we were presented with another dramatic waterfall or geological wonder. The roads are so peaceful and quiet in Iceland. Sometimes you won't see a car pass for miles, it can feel like you're out then on your own. It beats any of the road trips we've ever done, including Australia and New Zealand which were pretty incredible!

There is no public railway system in Iceland. There is a shrinking network of long-distance bus routes and I wouldn't fancy taking a camper van around for a number of reasons, but mainly the weather. Especially on the Golden Circle route, you're likely to see a lot of large tour coaches. I would say this is the one other main way we saw people getting around in Iceland, but you just can't put a price on the freedom you get with a car in a country like this! You will pass things that you had never planned to stop at, or might want to visit something nearby you didn't realize was there. You can stop at places when you want, for as long as you want, and you won't have to share the experience with the hordes of other tourists that have just piled off the bus! Hiring a car and setting your own schedule, is the best way to make the most of your time in Iceland, giving you the opportunity to plan stops in several locations through the country, covering long distances if you want to visit places in the North, South, East and West,

The Weather

In Iceland, even in the summer months, it is not uncommon to experience all four seasons in one day. Our trip was for six nights in mid September, and we had everything from gale force winds with freezing rain and temperatures, to sunny skies and highs of 15, in that order! Please don't let the weather put you off. When it's good, it's glorious, but even when the weather isn't brilliant, it doesn't take away from the experience and sometimes add to it! Just watch that weather report and listen to the warnings, especially for wind. On some roads, cars have been blown straight off the road. Back in the UK, we are used to unpredictable and crazy weather at all times of the year to, but everything is just a bit more intense in Iceland! Couple this with the types of outdoor sightseeing and activities here, you're going to appreciate a car! If you're not used to driving in these conditions, don't let it put you off, just drive carefully. If you get soaked while you're out and about hiking, or even doing something simple like visiting a waterfall, like we did at Skógafoss, you're going to want to go back to a nice warm hotel to have a hot shower, and you're going to want to get there with as much warmth and comfort as possible, especially with kids! I can't explain how nice it is to get back into the car after being out in some of the weather, even if just for a few minutes.

Remember to visit Iceland with appropriate clothing. It might feel comfortable, toasty and dry inside your Europcar , but even in the summer months, you need lots of layers with a waterproof outer layer and appropriate footwear with high thick socks. It is always good to throw an extra set of clothes in the boot for everyone. If you're really lucky and have warm and dry weather, it's better to have the layers just incase, as the weather forecast can change from one day to the next.

Hiring A Car

Hiring a car for your Iceland trip is super simple! Book your car as far in advance as you can for the best price, but we were pleasantly surprised by the costs for car hire, especially considering a lot of things in Iceland are not cheap! First you need to head to the Europcar website for Iceland and choose which car you would like. I would recommend a 4x4, especially if you are traveling in winter, but it's not absolutely necessary, if you're sticking to the touristy sights around the Golden Circle. There are some roads off limits to passenger and 2WD in Iceland, so if you think you might want to access some of these roads, have a bit more freedom with your route, cross any unbridged rivers etc, you will need a 4x4. Please remember though, it is ILLEGAL to drive off-road in Iceland. When choosing insurance for your vehicle, carefully consider which option is best for you by checking what IS AND IS NOT INCLUDED.

When you have completed the simple online process of booking your vehicle, remember you still need to present your driver's license and a credit card at your pick up location, before you can drive off in your car. The credit card should have enough available balance to cover the excess, should something happen on your trip.

One thing to bare in mind when you're traveling into Iceland, is that the International Airport you will be flying into, is located in Keflavík, which is about a 43 minutes drive from Reykajavík and the Domestic Airport, so don't get these mixed up. This means if you've planned to stay in Reykajavík for the first night, you will also have about a 40 minute drive to get there, another reason why it's essential to have a car in our opinion, and perfect to arrange your Europcar pick-up, for when you arrive at Keflavík. The Europcar desk at the airport is open until 2am.

Our Europcar pick up and drop off, was the smoothest experience we've ever had hiring a car. It took minutes to get us on the road! When you arrive, you will be handed a fantastic Europcar booklet. It includes all the information you need about driving your Europcar in Iceland, and includes a lot of other useful information, including sightseeing info and maps. The Europcar staff will give you some quick advice though, if you're looking to get straight on the road and read this in more detail at a later time.

The car was pulled outside the entrance for us, which is amazing if you've got kids, it's raining outside and you have a late arrival and delay before leaving the UK like we did. All we had to do was pop the car seats in that we had reserved, and we were on our way.

Get your own car hire quote here.

Driving In Iceland

Driving in Iceland is like a dream. The roads are simple, quiet and the main roads are in good condition. Unlike other destinations in Europe, we were not presented with any unfamiliar road systems, but in Iceland it is always the outer lanes that give way for inner lanes. Apart from driving on the other side of the road, everything is much like the UK, and if you're used to driving in the rural parts of this Nation, you will probably feel right at home in Iceland. Gravel roads, narrow and single lane roads and bridges are not uncommon, as well as wildlife standing close and sometimes even in the road, so take extra caution in these situations. If you're driving for long distances, especially in the quiet scenic parts, it's good to make sure you've filled up first, or at least don't let the tank run too low. Fuel stations are few and far between in some parts. Driving these parts at night or in the dark can feel a little unsettling at first, as there is absolutely no road or street lighting, even around some hotels and residential areas. Don't panic too much though, there are reflective posts in most places and with your headlights, this is all you need. Just drive with extra caution.

One of the amazing things for tourists in Iceland, is the fact that so many of the popular sights are literally just off the main road! There is always clear car parking, with plenty of room and in a lot of cases, the parking is free. Some of the sites do charge a small fee though, and most only accept cash, so it's always handy to have some on you.

In Iceland your head lights and seat belts should always be on, it's the law, and like many other places, using a phone while driving is illegal. There are traffic cameras throughout the country, even in isolated and scenic places, so be careful as these could rack up by the end of your trip. Speed limits are clearly marked, but we did notice that you don't have much warning to changes, and even noticed cameras immediately following speed changes. So for your safety and your wallet :) drive carefully.

If you have hired yourself a 4x4, remember to only activate the 4 wheel drive options, if and when you need to. Driving around in these constantly, can damage the car. Remember that driving off road in Iceland is ILLEGAL. Whilst traveling around the country, the highest respect for the Icelandic environment must be shown.

CALL 1777 for road information.

CALL 112 for SOS and Emergencies.

Click here to read Europcar's 'Driving In Iceland' guide. Keep reading for our itinerary.

Our Itinerary

Our itinerary for Iceland was one of the hardest to plan so far, partly because of the limited amount of time we had and partly because there is so much to see in different areas of the country. On the map, you will notice what looks like a road that circles the entire island. Although Iceland is not massive, it will take you around eight hours to drive from the West to the East on this road, passing the North on your way. Although there are some highland roads that cut through the country, they can only be accessed with a 4x4, and it is recommended, that only those experienced in driving these roads access them.

With this in mind, here are the two most popular ways to travel the country. You can either take off from the West and lap Iceland completely, arriving back in the West at the end, OR you can base yourself somewhere like Hótel Rangá , which is in a good position to take day trips to the areas and things you want to see around the Golden Circle. (If you plan to book this hotel, make sure you use the code CAMP-RANGA at the checkout for 20% off their Best Available Rate. We do not receive money when you book, it is simply a discount code for our readers and followers.) Staying somewhere like this will also give you a bit more flexibility to adjust your schedule, according to the ever changing weather reports. There are some activities for example, you may only want to do with low winds and light or no rain. If you commit to lapping the country, you may not have this choice, or may miss out on it altogether if you have to keep moving to stick to a schedule. Which option you choose will depend on what kind of traveler you are, how much flexibility you want, what you want to see and how much time you have.

Due to severely bad weather on some days, we had to move some things around, to make sure that we were hiking on the best days, but this also meant we had to leave some things out altogether. We detailed our original itinerary for you below, with driving distances from where we based ourselves, next to the day number. Logistically, this is a brilliant schedule which allows you to fit a lot of the sights in, but you can always mix it up and adjust for whatever weather you get. Look out for next blog, with more information about what we actually managed to fit in, with our review for the hotel.

DAY 1 - Reykjavík

0 min to Whale watching tour with Special Tours

0 min to Whales Of Iceland Museum

0 min to Explore Reykjavík City

DAY 2 - Day Trip From Reykjavík

2 hrs 23 min to Kirkjufell

37 min to Búdir Black Church

8 min to Bjarnarfoss

18 min to Arnarstapi Lonely House

2hrs 29 min back to Reykjavík

DAY 3 - Travel From Reykjavík To Hótel Rangá

1 hr 34 min Enjoy the beautiful drive with freedom to stop along the way. Check in and settle into the hotel, enjoy the hot tub, other facilities and an evening meal

DAY 4 - Day Trip From Hótel Rangá

1hr 12min to Reynisfjara Black Beach

26 min to DC3 Plane Wreck (This only takes you to the car park. There is between a 60 and 90 min walk there and back, to reach the wreck)

15 min to Skógafoss Waterfall

26 min to Seljalandsfoss Waterfall

22 min back to Hótel Rangá

DAY 5 - Day Trip From Hótel Rangá

3 hrs 32 min to Jökulsárlón Glacier (Diamond Beach)

48 min to Svartifoss Waterfall

1 hr 7 min to Fjadrargljufur Canyon

1 hr 58 min back to Hótel Rangá

DAY 6 - Day Trip From Hótel Rangá

1 hr 15 min to Gullfoss Waterfall

9 min to Strokkur Geyser

36 min to Kerid Crater

49 min back to Hótel Rangá

You can click here , to visit the Europcar Iceland website, to get your own quote for car hire.

This post is sponsored by Europcar. We do not receive money when you click the links in the blog, or when you hire a car. Europcar gave us one of their cars to test out in Iceland, and paid us to make some kick ass content, that shows you guys how amazing this country is! We hope you enjoy :) If you do, please leave us some love in the comments and let us know if you've done your own road trip!

A Staycation In The Welsh Countryside

Thu, 01 Aug 2019 11:06:11 GMT

Hidden Valley Yurts & Lake House, Monmouthshire

So our job is literally to scour the globe looking for the most unique, quirky and luxurious accommodations and experiences, but we've been neglecting our home country, Wales. It is consistently ranked in the top ten most beautiful countries in the world, often making it into the top 5! Earlier this year, on deciding to make the UK our home base for the time being, we already committed to exploring it more while we are home, but so many people ask us, "where should we stay when we come to Wales?' and we never have an answer! With this in mind, we went out of our way to start searching for the countries coolest places and this is our first find!

Do you ever fantasize about picking up your dream luxury house and setting in down in nature with no one else around, nothing but the sounds of birds, fresh trickling water from the stream and the trees blowing in the wind? Well you will be happy to know that this is exactly what you get with The Lake House. The house is set on 80 acres of private meadow and woodland, next to a natural stream and it's own private lake.

Arrival

A few days before leaving for the Lake House, we received confirmation through the post. This also contained all the information we would need during our stay. Contact information, arrival and departure, directions, activities, the local area and much more. We had a few days to mull over everything and felt fully prepared leaving for this trip, you cant put a price on that!

The Lake House is self catering, with a fully equipped kitchen and I mean, if you want to cook a family Sunday roast, you won't want for any kitchen materials to do that. If you want to see a full list of everything in the house, click here.

You can either stop at a supermarket before you leave, arrange for a supermarket delivery straight to the house, or you can stop in one of the supermarkets in the area. Even though the nearest supermarket is roughly eight miles from the house, there are some local shops for necessities and of course there are a number of pubs serving great food in the local area. For a full list click here . Don't forget that you can also hire a private chef to come to the house, cook for you and even clean up afterwards! Whether you're a couple looking for a romantic meal or a family looking for an outdoor bbq, it can be arranged. Click here to read more about this. If you're looking for take out food, there is a Chinese in Chepstow that will deliver!

Modern sat navs or the maps on your phone, will get you where you need to be and then it's very well signposted. The phone signal in this area, as with any area in Wales this secluded, can be sketchy, so make sure to get the route up on your phone before you leave. You will have already given Mike the owner, a rough estimate of your arrival time and within minutes of pulling into the yurt car park, he will arrive in a super cool buggy, to take you and your bags to the house in style! It's only a short walk to the house but down a sloped gravel road, this will ensure your comfort if you don't fancy the trek!

Inside House & Grounds

Mike will help you with your bags if you need it, and show you around the house and all the appliances. If you stay through the summer months, you will likely be outside as much as possible enjoying the balcony, patio furniture and BBQ and if you're visiting through winter, you will enjoy cosying up with their blankets and log burning fire!

The Lake House has two bedrooms. In both rooms the large beds can be separated to make twin sleeping arrangements if needed, perfect for a family retreat or couples/group getaway. When we arrived, the rooms were set up perfectly for our family. If your family is a little bigger than four, The Lake House has a sofa bed so have a chat with the owner to see if they can accommodate you. The whole house is on one floor, which is perfect as you are never too far away from anything, including the children! The house is immaculate, so we really had that new and luxury feeling during our stay and there are no shoes to be worn inside, so it's clean when you arrive and stays that way through your stay.

The house decor, is the kind that really inspires you to make over your own home, or in our case, buy one! No expense has been spared, the finish is superb quality, there is only the best of everything with little touches that really made a difference! Like the coffee machine with fresh coffee beans to wake up to every morning, a smart TV with Netflix access, so Ian and I could continue with the series we were watching late at night haha, and a cupboard full of new and varied toys for children! It was like Christmas, Kallan and Maddie were so excited! Of course, looking at the grounds map below, you probably wont be able to get the kids inside.

Even though The Lake House is located on the same land as the Yurt Campsite, there is enough distance between them that you won't be able to see or hear anything. The area around the Lake House is private with a separate entrance. The owners ask that other guests don't wander here, so that you have privacy. Other than this, you and the yurt guests are free to wander and enjoy this incredible natural area and everything it has to offer! The owner's have limited the amount of yurts and capacity of guests overall, so that whether you're staying in the yurts or the Lake House, you will almost never bump into another person while exploring or enjoying a quiet walk!

If you fancy some company on your walks, the owners have hung a lead for their dog, Tilly, on the hook outside the front door of the Lake House! She is not allowed inside the house, so if you're asthmatic like Ian, you don't have to worry about triggers inside but you still get to enjoy her company! This was the biggest highlight for Kallan and Maddie. We all absolutely fell in love with her, she is so gentle and has such a beautiful temperament. You are likely to encounter other animals while you're out and about, like sheep and even highland cattle!

TIPS

The lake house is open all year round, so depending on which time of year you go, make sure you wear and pack the right clothing. The lake house recommends wellies or appropriate shoes all year round, even in summer as we get rain all year round, but it's been dry lately, so we were fine in sandals.

Keep an eye on the forecast for weather and temperatures, as it's only the way to know what you're going to get with the unpredictable British weather! The owners support you in the case of any severe weather conditions, by either rearranging or refunding you.

If it's hot, you might want to take some sun cream, bug spray and/or long clothing. We don't have mosquito's but horseflies can be a pain. Through winter and spring, you're looking at cold or freezing and maybe even snowy conditions. Wintery walks will be beautiful, but you will need shoes with grips, warm clothing and thick coats!

The floors inside are real wood, to avoid the chance of splinters, it is advisable to bring slippers or something similar, especially for children

Activities

You have plenty to keep you entertained while you're staying at the Lakehouse, especially if you have children. They will love finding the tree swing and the large open spaces. Don't forget to stargaze with them, if they've managed to stay awake! There is no light pollution due to the secluded area, so it's the perfect place to admire the natural twinkling lights above!

There are plenty of optional extras that can be arranged for you to enjoy on site to! Whether you're looking to enjoy a hot tub or you want to relax with a massage, it can be arranged. Just get in touch with the owner to see what's available or click here , to read more about some of the extra on site activities.

If you want to see what the local area has to offer, check out the Lake House 'Out And About' page . When you see all the fun activities, you will probably want to extended your stay! You can do everything from hiring bikes, to tours, to kayaking down the beautiful Wye River and much more! We stayed for just the weekend but we wish we had arranged a week. We managed to squeeze in a few hours at the treetop adventure at GoApe, but they have so much on site, we could have easily the spent the full day! We highly recommend this experience, it was so much fun for the whole family! Check out their website , if you want to see more! We also managed to visit Tintern Abbey, which is breathtakingly beautiful. We thought we would be in and out of here but again, we wish we had packed a picnic and spent the day.

You won't be stuck for things to do but you will probably find it tough deciding what to do with so much choice! Not a bad dilemma to have!

The Yurt Glamping Experience

We were lucky enough to get a tour of the grounds and the yurts during our stay, and we were blown away! We never thought we would find a place in Wales, or the UK, with such a bohemian feel. For a second, we actually felt like we were back in Bali and as the yurts are seasonal, only opening in the Summer, you're likely to have good temperatures and weather to match!

We managed to get some photos but you really have to see this place to fully appreciate how cool it is! We can't wait to pick our fresh eggs from the chicken coop every morning, pick the fresh herbs growing, cook our own pizzas in the traditional pizza oven and huddle around the fire in these traditional Mongolian yurts!

To learn more about the Yurts and Glamping experience, check out the website by clicking here .

Pirates Adventure Mallorca

Mon, 08 Jul 2019 11:29:57 GMT

Mallorca's No1 Show

About The Show

'Pirates Adventure' is a show that has entertained over 3 million customers in the last 30 years, featuring world class acrobatics and incredible gymnasts, all in a purpose built theatre! The theatre is a famous landmark in Mallorca and a mecca for tourists and residents alike. Built in 1985 on open ground, it has been continually adapted and updated, to provide a distinctive and atmospheric venue.

Known as the 'Ultimate Dinner Show', you are taken on a magical journey, through a time when pirate's ruled the Seven Seas! The tickets include the show itself, a two course buccaneer's feast and unlimited drinks! This particular show is suitable for all ages, but there is also an adult version, if you're traveling without children. There are four different seating categories to choose from, to suit all budgets and there is even a VIP experience with a backstage or 'below deck' tour!

When we were invited along to experience Pirates Adventure , Mallorca's number one show, I didn't know what to expect. Everyone I know that has ever been to this show, absolutely raves about it, including Ian, who went when he was younger. However, I just couldn't understand how it could be 'that good', looking at the size of the theatre, the ticket price and knowing that so much was included within the price, food and drinks etc. I figured it would probably just be a nice evening, with a bit of entertainment and some snacks......I couldn't have been more wrong!

Our Experience

Outside the theatre, there is a plenty of free parking, but as it is such a popular experience, it is best to get there early, especially on sell out nights. Don't worry though, there is other parking available in the area to. The Box Office where you collect your tickets, is found on the entrance to the outside waiting area, and this is where the entertainment starts! First you are offered the opportunity to buy your very own Pirate bag, complete with weapons (plastic don't worry haha), pirates earing (child friendly), pirate spyglass, hook and treasure (chocolate coins haha)! The cost for one of these is €15, so we went for just one, so that the children could share and get excited. Before you start to make your way to the front door, the photographer will snap some different photos of you all, with no obligation to buy, in front of the cool Pirates wall. There is no flash photography inside the theatre, to protect the performers. One flash during their performance, could distract them and cause a serious accident but don't worry, because if you want some photos inside, the photographer comes around after food and before the show, to snap some more! You don't have to go searching for these at the end of the show though...the staff come around with several different photos taken from the night, printed in a lovely Pirate frame. You can purchase these there and then if you like, but again, there is no obligation to buy!

The entertainment begins before you even enter the theatre. The cast of the show, greet you outside in full character! They not only build the excitement but have everyone in fits of laughter and this continues while you're sat at your table, before the show starts and through the intervals! We were escorted to our table and straight away introduced to our dedicated host for the evening, who explained everything and showed us where the gift shop, toilets and bar etc were, before taking our drinks orders straight away!

Let's talk about the food and drink! There is nothing worse than knowing you have table service but still waiting around, but I can't see that ever being a problem with your visit. There are so many staff working, particularly through the busy food service and interval parts of the evening, more importantly they were organized and have very efficient and proven processes, to make the evening run perfectly. Our dedicated host, checked on us regularly and whenever the table's drinks were low or needed refilling, all you had to do, was turn the jug upside down. We had enough time to settle in and have a small drink and before we knew it, our food was automatically brought to our table.

The drinks were unlimited soft drinks, sangria and beer. The food was brought together, hot, well-cooked and with everything that we could have needed; seasoning and sauces etc. Chicken portion, chips and corn are served for the adults and the kids enjoyed the same meals, but with chicken nuggets. The meals were served with lovely bread rolls and desert was a selection of two different flavored ice cream pots. The quality and quantity of everything was really good, especially if you consider the price of the tickets. We would have paid the ticket price for the entertainment alone, so the value for money is incredible.

Let's talk about the show! The theatre is set up well, so that wherever you are sat, you have a good view of all the action. The show doesn't stay on the stage though! These guys really make use of the space, so if they are not on stage, they are flying through the air, running up and down the aisles or performing just in front of you! We expected a good show after reading all the rave reviews but honestly didn't expect it to be THAT good!

The athletes of Pirate's Adventure are the best we have ever seen. The tricks and stunts we saw that evening, were more impressive, than anything we have seen in the Olympics or Britain's Got Talent. With so many different talented performers working together, continuously throughout the show , you are constantly wowed. Our immediate response following the show was,

"We have never seen anything like it before. The whole experience from start to finish is funny, sexy and awe-inspiring!"

We really loved that the whole show had a narrative, a story that we all followed from start to finish and we really felt a part of it. At the start of the show, the audience is split into different crews and allocated a captain, so that you can cheer throughout and be involved, without even leaving your seat. The experience of the cast shines through, in addition to performing a perfect show, you can see the many years of hard work, that must have gone into perfecting their skills. At the same time, every single person, gives 100% effort and energy, as though this is the first, last and only show they will ever perform.

When booking your ticket's for the show online, our reader's can get a 15% discount at the checkout by using the code: TTWF15

Click here to book your ticket's now!

We do not earn money when you use the code above or when you click the links in this article. We were hosted by Pirate's Adventure and were asked to give an honest review, putting together some helpful information for anyone interested in the experience. If you enjoyed this, or it has been useful to you, please let us know :) Thank you!

Our Family Trip To Dublin

Wed, 29 May 2019 13:13:07 GMT

Staying At Conrad Dublin

We talked about our love for visiting Cities in a recent Instagram post. Full of life, culture, history, shops and mixed activities, they never fail to please us all! Dublin is a perfect example of this! It is also a great place to base yourself, if you want to explore other areas of Ireland. We only had the weekend and with so much we wanted to see, we didn't leave the City!

Conrad Dublin

We arrived into Dublin airport , quite late in the evening. It was already dark but there were buses still running frequently from right outside the airport, so we jumped on the Airlink, for just a few euros. There are different buses, so check online or with the driver before you leave, to make sure you're on the best bus and to check which is the best stop to get off at, for your particular one. You can also get a taxi into or out of the City! We left Dublin early hours of the morning for our flight home, so the concierge at Conrad Dublin, were kind enough to book one for us the night before, so we didn't have to worry. They usually cost around €35.

The first thing we noticed when we arrived at Conrad Dublin , was the amazing location! Located on Earlsfort Terrace, overlooking the majestic National Concert Hall and standing opposite the gardens of St Stephens Green. We didn't hire a car for our short time in the City, didn't want to spend a lot of money on taxi's, but also didn't want to be hopping on and off public transport all the time either. The hotel is in a great position if you're looking to stretch your legs and explore the City by foot.

If you've had enough of exploring, don't forget you can access Conrad's Health and Fitness Suite or enjoy one of Ireland's most prestigious golf courses !

Before entering the hotel and setting your eyes on the incredibly grand decor, you are likely to experience the warm hospitality of the local staff, who greeted us by name! It is this kind of 'above and beyond' attitude that you can expect during your stay. They really do go the extra mile with everything and nothing is too much trouble. High standards are definitely associated with this hotel brand and their Dublin residence and it's staff, certainly delivered on this.

The kids enjoyed some chocolate Easter eggs from the staff, while we checked in and after admiring their pretty Easter display in the lobby, we made our way up to our room. Followed shortly, by the concierge with our bags. We stay in a lot of nice hotels and rarely get that these days!

Our suite was beautiful! It's the kind of room you run around when you get in, because it's so big and there are treats and different features everywhere you look. The room benefits from a separate bedroom and lounge area, with a sofa-bed. Premium channels, including sports are available on the two large LCD TV's in the room and you can watch these from the bed's. The kid's enjoyed coming back to some of their fave channels after a long day of exploring and we enjoyed having our own space in the room next door. The King size bed felt bigger than any we have slept in and was of course, so comfortable! We had USB charging ports right next to our beds, plenty of quality bottled water and tea and coffee facilities, including hot chocolate for the children. The room also benefit from a bath/shower and a separate shower room, depending on what you prefer.

Click here to see more photos and information about the Conrad One Bedroom Suite we stayed in, and to see the other rooms and suites available. There are several options available for small families with children under 12 years old, to stay in the same room.

You can dine from early in the morning until late at night, at one the three restaurants and bars in Conrad Dublin:

Alfie Byrne's By Galway Bay Brewery

The Coburg Brasserie

Lemuel's Bar and Lounge

We enjoyed breakfast at The Coburg Brasserie and cocktails in the evening at Lemuel's. If you want to see what else the City has to offer, there are a number of popular well known bar's, cafe's and restaurant's, just a few minutes walk from Conrad.

Breakfast at the hotel was delicious, with the combination of an impressive buffet and ready made to order options from the breakfast menu. The quality of food and drink can be tasted with every bite and sip and the breakfast staff were so helpful. Along with the amazing options for children, like warm fluffy pancakes, muffins and their fave cut fruit, the staff brought the children some hot chocolate.

Things To Do And The Area

Dublin has been one of our fave Cities to date for parks! It was a beautiful Easter weekend for our visit and the sun was out for the whole trip, so they did get busy but the kids made a lot of friends and we struggled to get them out of the parks when it was time to leave.

- St Stephens Green Park and Playground , known as one of Dublin's prettiest parks, is just across from Conrad Dublin. The walks here are lovely with lots of flowers, trees and large ponds with ducks and birds. There are lots of areas throughout the park for the kids to kick a ball or picnic and some of these, are right opposite the enclosed children's area, so you can chill out while the children play.

- Merrion Square Park has a themed playground, based on The Selfish Giant from Oscar Wilde, with some carvings and some of the equipment itself, taking on some of the characters and features from the story. It was my personal favourite play area with its wooden design and wood chip flooring, with areas for adults to sit while children play.

- Phoenix Park is a little further out, but its only a twenty minute taxi drive from Conrad and as the largest enclosed City public park in the whole of Europe, it is well worth the visit. As well as being award winning, the park is home to a large herd of fallow deer, that roam freely. It is not permitted to feed, approach or touch the deer but they were clearly used to human's, as they came up to check out what was in our picnic. Just be mindful, especially with children around, they are still wild animals, they are unpredictable and can move fast.

There is plenty of sightseeing in and around the City, including historic buildings and architecture. You can admire some of these from the outside but if you want to enter, most have at least a small entry fee. With that in mind, it is worth reading up online before you go, to check the prices of the things you really want to see.

It is also worth checking out 'The Dublin Pass' . It gives you free entry to over 30 attractions, including some of the attractions I've listed below. It also offers admission to many others, including water park's, adventure golf, distillery and stadium tours, Dublin Zoo and much more. This ticket also includes a free hop on hop off tour, fast track entry to some attractions and exclusive offers and discounts at 20 extra venues.

We only visited a few of the below and only paid to see The Long Room at Trinity College. It was €28 for a family ticket but it gives you access to both the exhibition and the library. People have asked us if it is worth it, but it really depends on how much you value what you're going to see. If you're a lover of history, architecture, photography or books, this place will be a must see, but it's so impressive, that it is likely to wow anyone. If you do decide to visit, it is best to book online in advance. The queue's for this place can circle the entire square outside the entrance, especially during busy periods. If you haven't managed to do this, try and make either the first or last entry slot to avoid long lines.

Some of the most popular attractions include:

1. Dublinia - The Museum at Christ Church

2. The Book of Kells - Exhibition and Old Library at Trinity College

3. Dublin Castle

4. Kilmainham Goal - Museum and historic, unoccupied prison

5. Merrion Square - Georgian townhouses

6. Dublin Writers museum

7. St. Patrick's Cathedral

8. Jeanie Johnston Tall Ship and Famine Museum

9. The Ha'penny Bridge

Don't forget to stop by the most famous pub in Dublin, Temple Bar , Since 1840. It always has a great atmosphere with live traditional music, throughout the day and night. One of the musicians here, holds the Guiness World Record for the longest gig ever! He played guitar continuously for over 114 hours and 20 minutes. It's the best place to try Guiness, Ireland's local and popular stout. People say it tastes different when it's imported and that you can't beat trying it at home!

We do not earn money when you click the links above. We were hosted by Conrad Dublin, to create social media content, during a complimentary stay with them. We were asked to give an honest review and put together some helpful information for anyone interested in staying there. If you enjoyed this, or it has been useful to you, please let us know :) Thank you!

Our Couple's Getaway To Amsterdam

Thu, 16 May 2019 19:28:08 GMT

Staying At Pestana Amsterdam Riverside

Why Amsterdam?

One of the reasons why I absolutely love Amsterdam for a couple's getaway, is the short flight time from the UK. For us a couple's getaway means time away from the children, meaning we don't usually have longer than an extended weekend, so with just over a one hour flight time, Amsterdam is perfect! While it is a great family destination, it certainly has the draw for adults.

Amsterdam is filled with quirky and elegant, restaurants, bars and coffee shops. It is known for it's incredible shopping, historic sights, tasty food, beautiful canals and bikes!

Pestana Amsterdam Riverside

We arrived into Amsterdam on train from Cologne, where we had spent the previous day and night. We arrived at a fairly unsocial hour, following a cancelled train and as a result, landed at an unfamiliar station. We were hungry and tired, so after checking the distance of the hotel from our location in Amsterdam, we decided to jump in a taxi. Generally, we avoid taxi's where possible, but when we do use them, we try to use Uber where possible. With Uber we have never been overcharged and generally, you will get a really good price. If you are looking for a cheaper option and are arriving into Schiphol Airport at a good time, the airport is 16km away from the hotel, which you can reach via train, bus or tram. Check out the various timetables and prices online.

The first thing you will notice about Pestana Amsterdam Riverside , is the amazing location right on the Amstel river and the beautiful buildings and clock tower, which make up the hotel. When you walk into the old Municipal Building to check in, you will be greeted with contemporary decor but stunning original details and features. You are spoiled for choice with different types of rooms at this 5 star hotel, so make sure you have a good browse on their website, to see which takes your fancy the most! Whether you choose the River House Studios, rooms and suites in the old building, the Archives or the building's new wing, you are in for a treat!

The second we saw the cute open plan bedroom and romantic bathtub, overlooking the lounge area in the Mezzanine Suite , we knew it would be perfect for our little couple getaway. The room feels so light and big, with huge windows that open out to a side view of the river, it's a non smoking room, has two flat screen tv's, including one that you can watch from the bed or bathtub and has all of the other facilities you would expect with a hotel of this class. As you know, the wifi can be a serious annoyance of ours in some hotels, but we are so happy to report, that the connection at Pestana Amsterdam Riverside, is super fast and we didn't have any problems.

If you do want to return to this suite with a little one, Pestana Amsterdam Riverside, offer free accommodation for children up to 3 years old, when they share their parents' room, up to a maximum of 1 children.

Leisure Facilities

The number and variety of leisure facilities at Pestana Amsterdam Riverside, was a big draw-card for us, when choosing somewhere to stay. It's always appealing to us, whether we are alone as a couple, wanting to unwind together, have some alone time or even when we travel with the children and want to break the day up for them, after walking and sightseeing, we always appreciate and enjoy leisure facilities.

We have found it quite unusual, to have so many quality and complimentary leisure services as guests, in any City and we were pleasantly surprised to find them quiet and very clean, with a relaxed ambience. We were both able to enjoy own favorite activities, before joining each other to enjoy the steam room and sauna. Although we didn't book any spa treatments this time around, they do have a range of treatments available.

The Area and Things To Do

Pestana Amsterdam Riverside, is located in the 'De Pijp' district. The perfect location if you're looking to be close enough to Amsterdam's best bits, that you don't have to walk too much, but far away enough, that you can enjoy the peace and quiet of this riverside area. If you don't want to head into the heart of Amsterdam every day or evening, be sure to check out some of the many restaurants and coffee shops in the area, just a few short minutes from the hotel. This is also the area where you will find the 'Heineken Experience', where you can learn about it's rich brewing history.

'Arc.' the restaurant at Pestana Amsterdam Riverside, which is under supervision of famous chef 'Peter Lute', is where you can enjoy breakfast, a good coffee, drink and/or a great meal, with an intimate and inviting atmosphere. When you walk to the elevator which takes you to your room, you will walk above the open plan 'patio garden' area of the restaurant and it did indeed look so inviting, that we took a look, to see if we could get a reservation. The restaurant is very popular and was fully booked for the evening we inquired for, so book as early as possible if you want to guarantee a place. They do also have a bar menu available, in a different area, if you're looking for something a bit more relaxed or informal.

Make sure you don't miss out on the true Dutch experience, of riding a bike through the city and its canals, known as 'The Venice Of The North.' When you stay at Pestana Amsterdam Riverside, you can reserve a bike directly from the hotel reception, which is so convenient! We took the bikes out every day and sometimes, didn't get back until 10pm. It is so much fun and safe! Amsterdam has its own infrastructure for bikes and they take priority over everything. You can park your bike up anywhere, but remember to take a note of where! It is easy to get forget, with so many similar looking corners and canals, and the hundreds of other bikes, that all look the same. It's only a ten minute ride from the hotel to some of the tourist hot spots but we still found it useful to use 'maps' on our phone to help navigate.

Amsterdam is famous for various different foods that you can sample throughout your stay. Be sure to grab yourself a cone of chips to share (or not ha) from Manneken Pis and top them with one of over 30 sauces you can choose from OR Oorlog french fries from Vlaams Friteshuis Vleminckx. Here are some other treats to look out for! Sweet treats like a stroopwafel or poffertjes, herring or cod from one of the many fish booths around town, or something savoury like bitterballen or Dutch cheese!

When you're not cycling or walking, you can jump on one of the many canal tours, relax in one of the beautiful parks, or visit one of the famous different types of museums. Don't forget to check out the flowers at the popular flower market, visit some of the historic buildings like Amsterdam Palace or even jump on one of the horse and carriages just outside, for a little tour. If you do decide to visit the 'Red Light District', don't be too alarmed to see ladies stood in the red lit door way's, dressed in their best, even in the middle of the day. Just remember to be respectful and don't take any photos. These streets really do come to life at night though and the atmosphere in the bar's are amazing! Don't feel you can't enjoy this part of the City, if some of the unique and seductive bits, are not your cup of tea. You can choose what you want, or do want to partake in.

We have some amazing memories from here. We really let our hair down and it was the perfect place for our little couple getaway! We definitely be back as a couple but we also can't wait to go back with the children! Thanks so much to Pestana for the most perfect stay and cute little fragrant gift on departure! Click here , to check out some of Pestana Amsterdam Riverside's current deals!

We do not earn money when you click the links above. We were paid by Pestana Amsterdam Riverside, to put together a video and other social media content, during a complimentary stay with them. We were asked to give an honest review and put together some helpful information for anyone interested in staying there. If you enjoyed this, or it has been useful to you, please let us know :) Thank you!

Hiring A Family Car In The UK

Thu, 25 Apr 2019 21:27:23 GMT

Using Europcar UK's, 'Model Choice' Service

Whether you're hiring a car to explore the UK or help you with your day to day routine, you probably have an idea of what car you're expecting to drive around in! We've hired many cars, all over the world and while many things differ in the actual process, there is always one thing that remains consistent.....we never get the car we think we are going to get! As you may know, when you hire a car, you can choose the category of car you would like, each containing a range of different makes, models, sizes and ages, depending on your budget, so you never fully know what to expect on pick-up! Unfortunately this can be disappointing, inconvenient and impractical, if you're given the bottom end of the range you've selected. As a family especially, even the smallest differences in size and features, can have a big impact on the overall experience.

Aside from being Europe's number one car and van hire company, which is a great comfort, we hire with Europcar UK for a number of other reason's:

- COMPETITIVELY PRICED. They are almost always the cheapest, when we've compared with other companies and you are guaranteed the best price by booking direct.

- BEST PRICE GUARANTEE. You're guaranteed Europcar's best rates at their website's, mobile sites and apps. If you do find a cheaper Europcar rate, they will match it by refunding the difference.

- FLEXIBLE RENTAL PERIOD. Whether you need daily, monthly or just a one way hire, you can choose what length you need.
- NEW VEHICLES. Europcar vehicles are less than 6 months old on average.
- LOYALTY REWARDS. You can become a Privilege Member to access free hires, discount and priority check-in.
- 24/7 SERVICE IN MOST AIRPORTS. We are frequent flyers and do so at all hours in the day, so this is important to us.
- NO HIDDEN CHARGES. Things are not always as they seem with some companies, but you know where you are with Europcar.
- 24 HOUR ROAD-SIDE ASSISTANCE. This peace of mind is important for us.
- EXCELLENT CUSTOMER SERVICE. Europcar have a very informative website, have the online chat feature and they are also easy to get hold of via email or phone!

Hiring with Europcar, not only gives you all this, but when you book direct, you can now access their new 'Model Choice Service'! That's right, picking up from selected locations in the UK, unlike other car rental companies, you can choose the exact make and model you would like to drive around in, so no more surprises at pick-up! It is also super easy to do! As you can see below, when you visit www.europcar.co.uk you can choose 'Model Choice' from either one of the below drop down menu's.

Volvo V60

When we found out that Europcar UK, had brand new Volvo V60's in their fleet, we knew straight away that this would be the perfect car for our family. A few things are priority for us, when choosing a family car:

Size
Helpful Features
Safety
Economical

Our top 10 fave features of the Volvo V60:

The space! Nothing makes life easier and more comfortable than having plenty of space everywhere! Boot space, leg space, head space, plenty of distance in between the kids!
The features on this car really do make life easier! We loved the fact that you can open the boot by swiping your foot under the bumper! With kids and a trolley full of food to juggle, this is so helpful!
Sun roof! Aside from letting heaps of light into the car, the kids loved everything about this!
Instant heated seats and steering wheel! Britain is an amazing place to road trip, but it can get cold! Very cold! We loved not having to wait for the car heaters to start working.
Safety lights on the mirrors. The safety features on this car are amazing but we really loved the red lights on the mirrors, that are activated when get too close to something, or something gets close to you.
Speed dial in the windscreen. This is such a clever feature! We've got enough to concentrate on operating the car, navigating and being aware of what's around us, without watching our speed. In the Volvo V60, there is a very clear indication of your speed, reflected into the windscreen in front of you, so you don't have to keep taking your eyes off the road.
USB points. We all have devices and we all like them charged, so we really appreciate being able to plug our leads straight into the car!
Parking sensors and TV screen. Although it's great having sensors, it's still nice to be able to see what's around you when you're maneuvering a vehicle, but you can't see everything, even with mirrors! In the Volvo V60 you have a screen with a 360 degree view around the car.
Park assist! Never have and never will be able to reverse park. That's okay, the Volvo V60 does it for you.
We drove for what felt like forever, and the fuel gauge didn't move!

When you've selected 'Model Choice', if you would like a summary of the car, this is displayed for you when you select a vehicle. See below.

When you've selected your chosen dates, times and pick up/drop off locations, you will see the below screen, offering you more vehicle specs, information about what the hire includes and a quote. As you can see, the stylish Volvo V60 is very appealing as a family car, with the size and features.

You can print your quote from here or you can send your quote to a desired email, when you select 'More details.'

No-one want's to hang around when they're picking up or dropping a car off, so we really love Europcar's dedication, to making sure everything is quick and easy!

Click here to visit the Europcar website and get a quote.

TOP TIP for hiring in the UK:

Make sure you have all the documentation required, updated with your current information. It's worth checking this as soon as you possibly can, giving you time to update or gather what's needed. Hiring with some companies can be surprisingly difficult, with everything they require to insure you and although Europcar have been the best to hire with in terms of this so far, they still require some things.

We do not earn money when you click the links above. We were paid by Europcar UK, to document our experience and to give an honest review. We've put together some helpful information, based on our experience, for anyone interested in their services. If you enjoyed this, or it has been useful to you, please let us know :) Thank you!

Pine Cliffs, A Luxury Collection Resort

Fri, 22 Feb 2019 09:49:53 GMT

Europe's Best, Luxury, Ocean View Resort, 2018

We arrived into Faro airport mid February, which is just a thirty minute drive from Pine Cliffs, A Luxury Collection Resort . With the weather and temperatures back home in the UK, we were not expecting to arrive to beautiful blue skies, lots of sun and temperatures in the high teens, that felt in the 20's during the daytime. It was cold in the morning before the sun came up and we needed a jumper at sunset, but it was perfect through the day. We were able to sunbathe and we caught the sun, but it wasn't quite warm enough to get us jumping in the cold sea. The kids did spend a bit of time in one of the many outdoor pools at the resort, but with so many other things to do, it wasn't a priority for this trip.

Overall, Pine Cliffs Resort feels very private, safe and quiet. We visited during off season, so naturally it was quieter than it would be during peak season, but with it's size and layout, I can't imagine it ever feeling too busy. The entrance itself is a short drive or walk off the main road, after which you come to the entrance gates, where you will always find security standing. When you enter the huge grounds, it is like entering a large community or village, with different types of accommodation and attractions or services dotted throughout. The reception to the hotel is a short walk from the entrance. It took us a few days to get our bearings but reception will provide you with a map, so don't worry too much about this.

Our Room

We love hotel rooms but you can't beat having an apartment as a family! Staying in this kind of accommodation, we had plenty of room, a large outdoor balcony with seating, a fully equipped kitchen to prepare even simple things like a snack and drink if you don't want to cook, a dining area to sit and eat when we wanted to stay in, a large bath and shower room and separate areas to sleep in! Hallelujah! Until recently we co-slept with the children, so this setup was perfect for us. When we were ready, we called for someone to come and make up the sofa bed, which was great because it meant it didn't stay up all day and we had the extra space. With just a wall separating us from the children, we had enough space to feel like we had some us time but with leaving the door open, the children also didn't feel too far away and we were still able to hear each other. The kids had their own T.V. with English cartoons but not just any cartoons, Cartoon Network! Every child will tell you this is the best channel EVER! Amazing for us, because the kids actually enjoyed coming back to the room and going to bed after a day of fun, so that they could watch a little before bed. Last but not least, everything was spotlessly clean and immaculate, almost like it had never been used before. There is a variety of different accommodation available but click here to see more about Pine Cliffs Gardens.

Mimo Algarve - Family Cooking Class

One of our favorite experiences during our time at Pine Cliffs Resort, was without a doubt, our family cooking class at the famous Mimo Algarve. It is not every day you get to spend time learning from the best of the best in the industry! Chef Lucia Ribeiro, brings not only years of experience working in several Michelin star restaurants, she also brings the biggest and warmest character with heaps of charisma, which will make everyone's day! Lucia and her staff are like magicians, somehow making the task of cooking everyone food, seem like everything but a chore. I absolutely love cooking but as a busy working mum, who insists on cooking home cooked meals from scratch, almost every night, it's easy for it to lose it's fun. Its then even harder to involve the children, because I am always in such a rush, which is difficult, because cooking really is one of their favourite things to do! The only thing better than seeing them get dressed up in their little chef clothing, was seeing them super excited to cook, with big smiles on their faces. It felt great to be excited about cooking again, with everything planned and led by the MIMO team but executed perfectly, by all of us working as a team.

When we arrived, we were introduced, the kids handed fresh juice, while we were handed a glass of beautiful sparking pink wine, which melted away any of the anxiety we had left from busy life in the UK. When I first heard we would be making three courses, it felt a little daunting but between all of us and with the kind of dishes we prepared, it definitely felt like we did more socializing than we did cooking. Lucia actually takes the children off to prepare dessert for you, as the chefs help the children prepare the ice cream from scratch at the start of the class, this meant we were able to finish our food in peace. The fact that Lucia sits down to dinner with the whole family when you've all finished cooking, is such a lovely touch to the class, and of course you don't have to do any washing up!

The dishes cooked in the class, were traditional Portuguese dishes, cooked in a traditional way, using only the freshest of ingredients. We all huddled over the mouthwatering appetiser, which was so simple to cook, and we tucked into it over conversation and wine, while our main finished cooking. Maddie proudly brought our dishes over to us, and we all sat down, before digging into a delicious seafood and Iberian pork, cataplana. By the time you have cleared your famous in-house cake, the children will probably be running around happily in the lemon square outside, while you clear your palette with a beautiful dessert wine, reflecting on just how good the food you just ate was!
Of course, there are plenty of other courses to choose from if you don't fancy a family class, including children only classes where they get to mix with other children, there is a Michelin Star Secrets Class, Luxe Wellness and many more! Click here to see more about MIMO Algarve. You can find out more about the dining options at the resort by clicking here .

Serenity - The Art of Well Being Spa

We have personally experienced different treatments, from different spa's all over the world. It's very rare we don't enjoy a treatment and when that enjoyment is at the forefront of your mind, it can be difficult to compare with others from months or even years previous, so I am always really careful with my words when it comes to this. What I am sure about, is that this is the most unique and one of the most luxurious treatments I have had to date. Click here to go to the website and see details, of the eighty minute, 'Senses Of The Algarve' treatment I had. I would recommend this, if you're looking for something different, local, relaxing and luxurious. It is a three step treatment, that involves an exfoliating scrub to begin, followed by a body wrap. The handmade mixture of local ingredients, which I can only describe as feeling like warm chocolate, are rubbed over your entire body, before the wrap is placed over you. Although this felt strange at first, the wrap was actually my favourite part of the treatment. The time you are left to relax in it with the calming music, is pure bliss. The treatment is finished with a relaxing massage before you are shown to the relaxation area for some beautiful tea. Every step of the treatment uses fresh local ingredients, even in your tea at the end. They walk you through and explain each step and talk about the produce, so you just know that you will not have this experience, anywhere else.

The spa facilities are superb and luxurious but also finished perfectly. Such attention to detail with even real gold covered walls in some areas. There were so many features and areas, you could easily spend a few full days enjoying them. Even though the resort overall feels very peaceful, with no children allowed in this area, it gives you a space for some adult only time. We both left feeling like we had in fact experienced, Europe's Best Wellness Spa.

Experiences

During the summer and festive months, it is worth checking out what kids programmes are on featuring tennis, basketball and more. You can get involved with these if you're looking for family fun but there are also so many supervised activities for the kids to choose from, with everything from Aquaball to Nerf Competitions to Football. Although the supervised kids club is not available out of season, you are still able to enjoy this area, along with the various sport areas. There is a games room with favourites like air hockey, right next to the Corda Cafe, if you can get them out of one of the many pools dotted throughout the resort. You won't be able to miss 'Porto Pirata' as you're walking through the resort, the children's village with various fun areas, and a playground including life size wooden pirate ships. In this area there are seasonal supervised activities like face painting, treasure hunts and water games but we had heaps of fun in these areas as a family out of season, having the area to ourselves.

We never found ourselves without something great for the family to do out of season. With Pine Cliffs being a golf resort, you can enjoy their immaculate nine hole course if you're a beginner or more advanced, but if you want to get the whole family involved, they have an amazing mini-golf course! It is very well designed with trees providing almost constant shade and a super fun 18 hole course.

If you fancy a change of scenery for lunch or dinner, you can request a picnic to enjoy in some of the many beautiful spots throughout the resort. Our favorite area to sit and relax was on the grass area under the trees, before the cliff elevator. The kids loved kicking the ball around this open area and they played hide and seek for ages! See more about the children's activities here .

Location And Surrounding Area

Pine Cliffs Resort is located in a breathtaking position along the Algarve coastline, with dramatic colourful cliffs and pristine beaches. You can enjoy incredible ocean views from many places in the resort but you can also access the beach via a stairwell and lift, which leads to a wooden walkway, to a private area of the beautiful beach.

We enjoyed daily full English breakfast buffet, which featured many of the kids favorite's like pancakes and Nutella, made to order customer omelettes and fresh fruit but the options were endless. If you can drag yourself away from one of the many dining options at the resort, literally just outside the resort and all along the main street, there are a variety of restaurants, cafes and bars. Conveniently, just opposite the resort, there is a supermarket and a pharmacy just down the road.

You can drive from one end of Portugal to the other in a few hours, so it's relatively small if there are different areas you are looking to visit. It would be rude not to explore, at least some of the Instagram worthy spots, within an hour drive of Pine Cliffs. Our first stop was Praia Da Marinha, around half an hour from the resort, famous for the hidden heart formation that can be found within the rocks. We all really enjoyed trying to find this, check out our 'Portugal' stories on Instagram to see some photos of this area. Next stop was Ponta Da Piedade and Praia Da Batata, both featured below. Praia Da Batata was probably the children's favourite, because of the many caves on the beach but I would recommend visiting all spots if you get the chance. There were many more we wanted to see, but these were our top picks!

We do not earn money when you click the links above. We were paid by Pine Cliffs, to put together a video and other social media content, during a complimentary stay with them. We were asked to give an honest review and put together some helpful information for anyone interested in staying there. If you enjoyed this, or it has been useful to you, please let us know :) Thank you!

JUCY SNOOZE

Mon, 11 Feb 2019 14:27:22 GMT

Auckland, Queenstown and Christchurch

TOP TIPS:

BOOK AS EARLY AS YOU CAN! JUCY SNOOZE is VERY popular, as it offers clean, budget friendly, comfortable and stylish accommodation, in excellent locations, in some of New Zealand's most popular destinations!
BOOK CAR PARKING IN ADVANCE. Get in touch with the JUCY SNOOZE you're staying in and find out if you need to book car park, to make sure you don't miss out!
BUY ANY HEAVY FOOD OR DRINK BEFORE YOU ARRIVE. All of the JUCY SNOOZE locations have communal kitchens at least and are super close to supermarkets, but getting them from the front of the hotel, to your room, is a lot easier than walking with them from the store.
CHECK JUCY'S KITCHEN FOR THE BASICS. If you're going to the store before you arrive, you may want to ignore this one, but if you don't like seeing food go to waste, you love a freebie or you're on a really tight budget, it is worth checking JUCY'S kitchen before you shop! JUCY don't like waste, so all food, seasonings, sauces etc. that are left behind, a lot of which has been barely used or opened, is put aside for you to help yourself!

AUCKLAND

We left the JUCY depot with our new car rental and although they are very helpful with directions, we always appreciate having a sat nav in foreign countries, especially when entering a City. We found it really easy to reach the hotel, right up until we had to make the turning, onto the street where JUCY Snooze is located. If coming in from the same way, you will approach traffic lights and the directions will ask you to take the first left turning here, but it is so sharp, along with the traffic lights and steepness of the hill, it almost feels as though you cant take the turning, but you can! Up this hill is where you will find JUCY SNOOZE and if you can remember this as you are approaching, it may save you a few laps to get back around.

Keep left as you go up the hill and you won't miss JUCY's colorful branding! If you've booked yourself in for JUCY'S car parking, you will see the metal shutters to their underground parking, slightly BEFORE the hotel. If you miss it though, its easy enough to turn around in this little one way system. You can pull up right outside the hotel to check in and let them know you're going to be using the car park. When you're ready, you can just pull up and push the buzzer, so they can let you in. Call ahead and check if your vehicle is suitable for the car park. If they inform you that it's too big or high, there is a normal car park around the corner. It isn't linked to JUCY, but it's super close!

If you're making payments at the hotel using any type of card, make sure you know the charges, associated with using them at JUCY, before you arrive. You may prefer to bring cash to avoid them. There is a charge to use even cash cards on some occasions, so be prepared if you want to avoid them. Before you head up to your room, ask one of the JUCY crew to point to you to all the FREE New Zealand guides! We planned our entire trip using these and if you haven't got everything worked out yet or you're looking for for some extra stops or activities, these will certainly be a massive help!

We highly recommend the Studio Deluxe Apartment, if you're traveling as a family with children! Not only do you get a large private room, with a fully equipped kitchen and bathroom, the lounge area with sofas and tv, gives the kids room to move around in! It is safe, clean and convenient! Eating in is a great way to save some cash and you cant beat having your own kitchen to do this in, especially with kids. We had all tea and coffee making facilities included with this but if you're feeling super lazy, JUCY has a cute little coffee shop next to the reception. They are only open certain hours on certain days, so ask these on the way in to avoid disappointment.

A few minutes walk in different directions, can take you to many of the attractions within Auckland's centre. Whether you're looking to hop on a ferry, do a spot of shopping or check out the City from above in the Sky Tower. Make sure you check out online, what day and night markets are going on during your stay in Auckland. We passed one just around the corner from JUCY on our way home one night! They are super fun and always serve fresh, tasty and cheap food! You don't have to go far to see some natural wonders, with the beautiful, green Mount Eden, just a few minutes drive away. As well as giving you breathtaking views of the skyline, you will probably never see another volcano, covered in vegetation in a City like this, anywhere else. Its a must visit! Oh and don't forget about those Auckland beaches! Do your research, so you have an idea of which ones you would like to visit. We chose the famous Piha beach with the historic Lion Rock and it did not disappoint! There are a number of breathtaking waterfalls in the area, with some that you can stop off at on the way to the beach. Before you go, check online to make sure they are open to the public. Some parts of New Zealand's forests are affected by 'Kauri Dieback Disease', and in an effort to stop the spread, some places are closed off to the public for the time being.

Click here to check prices for JUCY Snooze Auckland

QUEENSTOWN

Probably one of the best positioned accommodations in Queenstown, JUCY Snooze over looks the town in one direction, the snow covered mountains in the other and the Skyline gondola on the other side. There are a ton of restaurants, pubs, fast food and shops just a few steps out of the front door but many of the attractions are also just a stone throw away.

It's brilliant arriving into Queenstown because although it looks busy, it's not a big City, it's exactly what it says in the name, a town. JUCY Snooze doesnt have it's own parking but it doesn't need it, because directly next door, is a little car park, that offers free over night parking between 6pm and 8am. It's costs around $1 per hour to park there in the daytime from 8am, which is super reasonable but remember, you will have to be up early in the morning to put that ticket on if you've parked overnight. If you're checking out, make sure you depart before the ticket expires or run out and put on whatever extra time you need. We didn't see anyone walking around checking or booking cars but the risk isn't worth the extra hour in bed! New Zealand are typically on the ball with things like this! The car park does get busy in the day but if you're arriving early in the morning, you might have more chance of getting a space.

The first thing we felt with JUCY Snooze Queenstown, was the JUCY community spirit! It was bustling with good, positive energy, full of happy, smiley travellers, high on life. Whether they were going to or coming back from a ski on the mountain or a tour around the town, there always seemed to be someone saying hello! Despite this, the corridors of the hotel, were chillingly quiet and the second we closed the door on our room, we had pure silence. The room was modern and very well designed, to make the most of the space and even felt like we had a bit of privacy from the kids, with a wall separating our big bed from their bunks! It had a tv, some storage space, a private shower room, toilet and even a little balcony, which looked up at the forest and mountain! It was super bright and airy with floor to ceiling windows and even though the room, doesn't come with heating system you can adjust yourself, if you're warm you can open a window and if you're wanting to be extra toasty, they have heaters you can request from reception.

The rooms didn't have tea making facilities and they request you keep food and hot drinks to the social areas of the hotel, which certainly shows in the hotels immaculate appearance, but we did meet some great people in the communal kitchen! As a family with children, I wasn't sure if this set up was practical with kids but it worked really well! We came, we cooked, we ate at the breakfast bar, the kids got loads of attention from the others in the kitchen while I cleaned up and we headed out for the day! There is a really popular pizza place on the top floor, if you're looking for somewhere to eat on the premises. We didn't have time to check it out and I am not sure what times they are open, but we overheard people raving about it!

When you arrive, check what time the opening and closing times are for the kitchen, so that you know when to make your first or last cuppa! Especially if you're keeping your food in the kitchen, you don't want it locked away in there, if you want to eat it. They have large refrigerators, if you need to keep anything cool, but make sure you keep this in a container or bag to keep your stuff together, and use the labels provided. JUCY are pretty awesome at keeping things, clean and organized for your convenience but this will mean getting rid of food if it is just left about without a label, regardless of the date.

Overall, we didn't spend too much time inside because we were out exploring! We highly recommend:

- Taking a walk up the hill to the bottom of the mountain. You can take the Skyline gondola to the top but if you're feeling up to it, you can walk up to check out the views or eat at the restaurant and don't forget about the Luge ride, if you're feeling adventurous!

- On your way up or back down the little hill from the Skyline gondola, nip into iFLY Queenstown! It is an indoor skydiving centre, where you can experience what it feels like to jump out of an aeroplane, without actually jumping from an aeroplane. The best thing about it is, if you don't want to give this a go, you can simply sit in and watch others giving it a go, for FREE! It is very entertaining and now the children want to have a go...very clever iFLY!

- Queenstown is known as the adventure capital of the world and even though we didn't go skiing, we've been told by many, it's one of the best places in the world for it!

- Take a walk into town, check out some of the sights, shopping, pubs, cafes and don't forget to try a #fergburger! They are world famous and although the line is always crazy long, it does goes down pretty quick. Top tip - eat before or after lunch to avoid the longer lines.

- Take a walk around the lake! The views are pretty impressive down there and the walking track goes on quite a while. The longer you walk on, the quieter and more picturesque it gets, if you're looking for a bit of peace!

- Visit Onsen Hotpools! It's only a short drive away from the town centre, but it really made our whole experience in Queenstown. You can enjoy the pools in any weather, whether you have the magical experience of snow falling onto you while you're bathing in the hot water in winter, or if you're admiring the view over the Shotover River in the summertime.

Click here to check prices for JUCY Snooze, Queenstown

CHRISTCHURCH

Christchurch was the last stop of a nine month journey around this part of the world and was our short stop, before over forty hours of travel to get back to the UK. A lot of travelers either start or end their journey here, so it is great to stay somewhere just minutes away from the airport. The depot for JUCY vehicles is just down the road, and with free transfers provided from here, if you're dropping off a car or camper van before you leave, you are guaranteed an easy start to your journey.

Just before you pull into JUCY Snooze, you pass a big supermarket and a wide variety of different restaurants and dining options. If you missed these, they are literally just around the corner from JUCY, not even a few minutes walk. We did dine in the Mexican place and although it wasn't cheap, the food was really good but with the supermarket next door, if you're really restricted on budget, you can always cook in JUCY's huge, open plan kitchen!

We pulled up to JUCY Snooze Christchurch and couldn't believe the size of the place! This also meant plenty of parking outside the building and is definitely felt through the design of the whole building, to the size of the rooms, to the communal areas, even the hallways! It may still be best to call ahead, to see if you can book parking, although it was free, we visited New Zealand during a quieter period and it is likely to get a lot busier in peak season.

The hotel overall is very geared to making sure, that if you're flying in or out of Christchurch, you have the best possible experience, while also not being too far away from the town itself, if you want to head in and explore. The bus stop is located just opposite the supermarket and we paid just a few dollars each to get into town. Here we enjoyed more eating options, big parks for the kids, tram tour rides and we even visited the famous 'Quake City' museum, which we highly recommend!

The reception is open 24 hours, making it easy to check in and out for any timed flights, you can request wake up calls and there are even kiosks available to make payment!

We were delighted to spot the laundry room straight away, meaning we could do the washing we had, before going home! It comes complete with washing and drier machines and you can buy laundry detergent from reception for just a few dollars. The machines take coins and reception were more than happy to change money for us.

Although you can join other travelers in the cool 'pod' style accommodation, this isn't your only option and with the children, we opted for a private room again! As with the other locations, we were presented a with modern, clean and spacious room! Probably all our favorite area in the building though, was the famous, large open plan communal area. You wont battle for space with anyone in this, there is so much worktop space, cooking tools and seating. Whether you're looking for a swing chair, a beanbag or a hammock, you will find somewhere to plonk yourself down and enjoy some down time, in this light and airy space. Even when it's fairly busy, it is big enough to find some space to enjoy time alone. There is a vending machine in here if you're feeling hangry and even a super cheap hot drinks machine! Don't forget the outside bbq area, if you're feeling adventurous and want to enjoy the good weather! Overall this modern, quirky accommodation and hang out, made our last few nights in New Zealand, easy and pleasant!

Click here to check prices for JUCY Snooze, Christchurch

We do not earn money through the links above. We were hired by JUCY Snooze, to put together a video and other social media content, during our complimentary stay with them. We were asked to give an honest review and put together some helpful information for anyone interested in staying there. If you enjoyed this, or it has been useful to you, please let us know :) Thank you!

A Long Weekend In Kuala Lumpur With The Family

Sat, 28 Apr 2018 05:48:27 GMT

One of the first things we saw in KL was a monkey dressed in toddlers clothing, jumping up and down on the back of a moving scooter and it pretty much sums up, this busy and vibrant city right in the middle of a tropical setting. It's not so long ago that tigers and other beasts of the jungle prowled the outskirts of KL and wildlife is still very much present.

Batu Caves

Batu Caves, just a short drive from the city centre, is popular with tourists who visit to take in the beautiful temples, wildlife and culture, climbing over 200 steps right to the top of one of one it’s caves. At the top you can also receive a blessing for a small donation and check out the beautiful Hindu shrines and dramatic cave interior. Make sure you have any food or drink you want to hold on to, packed away tightly as the cheeky monkeys might steal it, right from your backpack!

Fireflies

Kuala Selangor, only an hour drive from Kuala Lumpur, is popular with both locals and tourists. The small fishing village is renowned for having what is said to be one of the biggest firefly colonies in the world. You can see these glistening on a boat tour through Selangor River that runs through the village. These are seen during the evening/night so you need to plan ahead for your trip.

Petronas Towers And Light Show

In the city centre itself you have the famous Petronas Towers and KL tower. Both are breathtaking in the day, but at night they literally light up the city! At 8pm there is a beautiful fountain, light, symphony show within the grounds of the towers. It is quite something and if you have a few days in KL, it would be a shame to miss this!

We Recommend

We stay at the Dorsett Hotel . It is newly renovated, amazing value and very central. It is located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur's Golden Triangle, a stone's throw away from Malaysia's finest shopping malls, eateries, tourist and entertainment spots. The KL Convention Centre and Petronas Twin Towers are also within walking distance through an air-conditioned link bridge. When you’ve finished sightseeing, you can take a dip and cool off in the Dorsett outdoor pool.

Alternatively, if you are looking for self catering accommodation, check out Dorsett Residences just next door. Not only are these great value but it has it the most incredible rooftop infinity pool with a stunning view of the towers and a children’s play area!

Places To Eat

Although you can find the famous stinky fruit ‘durian’ throughout Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur was the place we first tried this unusual tropical fruit. Malaysian durian is known to be the best in the world but it is a bit like Marmite, you either love it or hate it. A great place to give it a go is ‘Jalan Alor’, a unique food destination in the heart of Kuala Lumpur. The whole character of the city changes when you step onto the street. Gone are the modern shopping malls which are replaced with something of the past age. During the day, there is not much activity but when the sun goes down, the street will be hustling and bustling with activity.

Another great place to chow down if you’re looking for some home comforts is ‘Gravy Baby’, just a short walk from the towers. Famous for pies and cocktails, this place really delivers on atmosphere, decor, service and taste! Serving traditional British food, cooked just like mum makes it, including a Roast dinner if you’re lucky enough to be in town on a Sunday!

If you’ve taken our advice and stayed at the Dorsett Hotel you definitely want to check out Checkers Cafe, their all day dining facility. Serving brilliant local and international food, they also have crazy deals on what I can only describe as A LA CARTE food, so take a look at those while you’re there!

Passing Through Johor Bahru With The Family

Wed, 18 Apr 2018 17:35:10 GMT

It is one of the fastest growing cities in Malaysia and with that it doesn’t have brilliant crime rates but like many other cities it has a lot to offer a family. Whether you are nipping over the border from Singapore for a few days, which is easy enough to do or travelling through Malaysia, it is definitely worth a visit!

In the Johor Bahru area alone, there are over 10 theme parks to choose from! Here are our top 5.

OUR CHOICE

1. LegoLand Theme Park Malaysia

Imagination becomes real at LEGOLAND® Malaysia Resort with more than 70 hands-on rides, slides, shows and attractions for families and children of all ages. It took us a full day with hardly any waiting time to experience the whole park, so you could do with at least two if you want a day at the waterpark also. It has to be the largest and most impressive Legoland with brand new attractions and improvements constantly being added to keep it up there with some of the best we’ve experienced. Our top 3 favourite features in the park were:

Ninjago World - The Ride

The great LEGO race VR coaster

LEGO Academy

2. Sanrio Hello Kitty Town

Hello Kitty amusement park with a playground, a Kitty House, craft activities & live entertainment.

3. Thomas Town

Part of the Hello Kitty Park, Thomas Town, along with some other adorable characters is another option for your visit.

4. Angry Birds Activity Park

Family attraction featuring indoor play areas & obstacle courses inspired by the Angry Birds game.

5. Austin Heights Water & Adventure Park

Spacious amusement centre offering a water park, skating rink, rope course & other kids' activities. It is a water, adventure and sports park, all in one!

Places To Stay

Holiday Villa Johor Bahru
We stayed in Holiday Villa, Johor Bahru and it is a great location if you’re undecided in which park to hit, or if you want to have a park marathon and visit a few because its central to all the parks. Some will be closer than others but with taxis so cheap and fixed prices in advance using the app ‘GRAB’, I wouldn’t worry too much about distance.

It took us 21 minutes in a taxi to get from the hotel to Legoland. If you choose this theme park or visit some of the other parks near the marina, you could stop off here for a stroll to check out some of the amazing boats and yachts and you can even book in to charter your own for the day!

This is a beautiful hotel, with probably the best roof top, infinity pool on the planet but remember, you are in the heart of Johor Bahru when you leave the front door. When you look out of the window you won’t see beautiful buildings and clean streets but if you’re okay with that, you love the hustle and bustle and experiencing other cultures, this is a great place to stay. You have local malls, stalls and restaurants to the rear of the hotel but with plenty of well known places like KFC, Pizza Hut and even Tesco if you’re looking for a bit of comfort!

You have probably the best view in town from the top of Holiday Villa with epic sunrise and sunsets but our highlight had to be watching a tropical storm! On that note, it is wise not to let a forecast put you off going anywhere in Malaysia as it says 'thunderstorms', most of the time! You get the odd storm now and again with some heavy rainfall, being a tropical country, but these disappear quicker than they arrive and mostly happen at night. It is so warm in Malaysia that it doesn't bother you having cloud sometimes, in fact it can be a God send.

Top tip: Use the front door to enter and exit the hotel when being picked up or dropped off in the car. Use the rear of the hotel when walking anywhere on foot, for quick access to the shops and restaurants. There are no sidewalks at the front of the hotel and the traffic travels fast.

How To Pack For A Family Trip Around The World

183:718469410 (Clare Fisher) — Fri, 13 Apr 2018 10:58:42 GMT

The one mistake we always see other travellers make, is carrying too much and luckily that's something that can be easily solved but if you want to avoid carrying it around and avoid shedding weight along the way, it's great to spend some time thinking about what you are ACTUALLY going to wear. We did a trial run before we travelled full time and spent a month in Mallorca. It was a test for us to see what we didn't wear and what we were missing. Especially if you are travelling hot countries, where your clothes will be thin and smaller in general, you don't need a lot.

Packing tips -

1. We are travelling for nine months but we only carry enough clothes each for one week. With washing it is plenty.

2. Keep shoes to a minimum. These weigh an awful lot and if you can carry universal shoes, you can really save on space and weight. When you are carrying everything, not rolling, this is really important.

3. Roll everything. When you are struggling for space in particular, it really helps to roll your clothes tightly.

What Bags Do We Use?

Our main bag is an OSPREY TRANSPORTER 130L . My mother always says 'you get what you pay for', and yes there are cheaper bags but there was no doubt after doing our research, speaking to other travellers and shopping around, that this is the perfect bag for us to travel with as a family and survive the whole thing. It is lightweight, durable, versatile and it looks amazing! It's weatherproof, has plenty of handles, whether you want to carry it as a backpack or put those straps away and carry it as a duffle, it has compartments inside and out and you can strap it to things or strap things to it.

It doesn't have any wheels but the few occasions you may appreciate having these, like through an airport or walking to your accommodation are so short and there are services to replace these, like concierge or trolleys. Until you have carried your luggage on your back, you probably won't realise how much more comfortable and practical it is when your using quality packs. For example, having two small children, with all our luggage, we always have our hands free to hold the children's hands, they don't get jammed or stuck or tip over, you don't have to worry about steps or lifting your case as its already on your back. This kind of bag is also great because it doesn't have a hard plastic case it is much easier to manipulate where you might want to squeeze things into it or even squeeze it into a space.

As a family traveller, we have also found you don't actually carry your bags very far. The term 'backpacker' kind of makes you think of someone trekking through a jungle with a backpack but its really not the case. Even when we have really travelled on a budget using local and public transport, getting on and off buses until we have travelled from one of Malaysia to the other, your bags go on and off the transport with you. This is the bag that gets checked in at the airport, so its the only bag we don't physically carry on the plane with us. This is the bag we use to carry all our clothes, some shoes and our toiletriess go into the side.

We also carry two smaller backpacks. These are suitable for children, so on travel days where Ian and I carry the large backpack and camera bag, the kids carry the smaller ones. When we have arrived at a place, these are then used as our packs for activities.

Osprey pogo 24 - This is a good, all round, everyday bag that has a good bit of padding and a lot of room. It is the bag that is used to carry the children's work books, pencil case, some of my camera equipment and anything else we need to shove in it. There is a compartment inside that helps to separate these from a different section giving you room to carry other things. The large front compartment also has room for a number of A4 books and has handy netted compartments for things like a wallet or phone etc. As well as being stylish, we use this when out and about to carry our things for the day and a selection of equipment. It also has stretchy drinks compartments on each side which is always handy! We went for black because we knew it would be the bag we use the most and after nine months would likely be black anyway.

Osprey Jet 18 - This is small and light empty, so is prefect for the kids to carry on travel days. When we are not travelling, we use this for the long walks or hiking. It has too many compartments and hidden compartments to count so we also use this to carry our valuables as they are not easily accessible. It even has sections on the straps for things like lip balm or energy bars. This gives us more protection against theft or loss as they are well hidden. Lots of spaces for water and to clip things on. The main compartment and even the drinks holders on the sides have adjustable tightening straps so its great for those more active or adventurous activities, nothing is getting out of this unless you really want it to, and even then you might struggle! You still have the handy, quick zip pocket at the front for things you just need to keep safe and handy strap that you can clip things onto. One of the most comfortable things ever to carry, especially for children with the padded straps, this pack, like the tog above has a ventilated back panel so it really helps to stop you from sweating. This pack is particualry great for hiking as it has an external reservoir pocket!

We never feel stuck for room using this system but we do struggle for weight on flights from time to time with our main bag, depending on the airline. Generally they vary on what they allow and this leaves us having to make sure we are under every time but its not too much of a problem.

We were recently asked to share some of our favourite travel and packing products, so here they are!

Packing Cubes - These things are great! You can get them in stores or online for the price of a beer! We found these helped when trying to locate our things. We are a family of four, travelling the world for nine months, so we have all our things in one large bag!

Found You Wrist Bands - We got these very cheap online but you can't put a price on the peace of mind they gave us. They are wrist bands that velcro around the children's wrists and inside contain vital information to help in getting them back to us if they got lost.

GoPro Action Camera - This helps us to capture memories in a different way. When we are on a rollercoaster, it films the same as what we are seeing and if we turn it around, it films our faces. We use it in the pool and in the sea, so we can really relive the experiences. We had it on when Maddison, our little girl swum for the first time :)

Last but not least, we have been asked to share some advice to help other families get on the road! If you really want to travel the world, everyone in the family needs to be on board. It has to be a family goal and everything you do everyday is geared toward making that happen. Planning is also really important and helps the family to get excited and prepared for such a big life change. Do as much research as possible and make sure you have enough money behind you. We made a lot of sacrifices in a small time to be able to save enough to make our dream happen, but it was so worth it! Keep an eye on our website for more helpful and in detail advice to help you make it happen.

You can click the links above to check out the bags we use but you can also click below to head straight to the Osprey website and check out their full range. Please leave some love if you found this useful and don't forget to check out our Instagram, Facebook and Youtube for regular and one time tips!

8 Things To Do On A Stopover In Singapore

Sun, 01 Apr 2018 05:01:11 GMT

Family Attractions In Singapore

If you're stopping over in Singapore with the family, it's worth making sure you've got a few days to explore! Comfortable and efficient public transport, links you to all the family attractions, that are relatively close to one-another. Even though Singapore is quite compact, if you have younger children, it is a good idea to choose accommodation close to a train station. Bay Hotel is just a three minute train journey from Sentosa Island, where you will find a lot of attractions. The station across the road from the hotel entrance, will link you to other places of interest like Marina Bay, and it has a pool! If you didn't know, the weather and temperatures are great in Singapore.

If you're suffering from jet-lag and travelling with little ones, it could be worth getting your head down for at least a night at The Crowne Plaza Changi Airport Hotel . Located in terminal three, it takes a whopping three minutes to walk from T3 arrival hall to the hotel entrance, which could be just what you need after a long flight. You will need to re-charge your batteries as much as possible to enjoy your experiences and fit as much as possible in!

This city has so much to offer a family with children of all ages, but with limited time, you're going to have to choose your activites wisely. We hope this guide helps you to plan your trip.

1. UNIVERSAL STUDIOS

Southeast Asia’s first and only Universal Studios theme park, featuring 24 rides, shows and attractions in seven themed zones. It is the most recently built Universal Studios and has been described as 'the best'. It has everything from the world's tallest duelling roller-coasters to your little ones favourite life size characters. If you arrive in time for the park to open, you will make sure you have enough time to experience everything, and they may even choose your family to open the park!

2. GARDENS BY THE BAY

One of Singapore's unique and signature attractions, it is one not to be missed. A national garden and premier horticultural attraction for local and international visitors, Gardens by the Bay is a showpiece of horticulture and garden artistry that presents the plant kingdom in a whole new way, entertaining while educating visitors with plants seldom seen in this part of the world, ranging from species in cool, temperate climates to tropical forests and habitats. The outdoor gardens are free to walk around but you will need tickets to access other areas. To see everything, you might want to leave a full day and try to make sure you stick around until after sunset, so you can see the gardens lit up at night. Check out the website to check prices and dates for routine attractions maintenance.

3. SKYLINE LUGE

Skyline Luge is a fun filled adventure activity, suitable for all ages and experience. It is a unique wheeled gravity ride that provides riders full control over their descent on purpose-built track, a great way to see views over Singapore. Thrill-seekers can navigate the Jungle trail or challenge themselves on the Dragon trail - then try one of two brand new Luge tracks - Kupu Kupu (638m) and Expedition (358m) that twist and turn through the mystical forest. With 2.6 kilometres of fun with your loved ones and feeling the cool wind in your hair as you zoom down the tracks, this would be one I'm sure you will never forget. You can also ride this at night, see link for more information.

4. SKY RIDE

The Sky Ride allows you to uniquely experience the incredible sights of Singapore. Jump aboard the Skyride for a bird’s eye view of Sentosa Island and Singapore city skyline. You might also see the cheeky cockatoos that often entertain guests. When night falls, cosy up for a romantic ride under the stars and soak up the atmosphere while catching glimpses of the mesmerising Wings of Time show, a multi-sensory extravaganza.

5. PROPELLER BAR

Located on the roof of Bay Hotel, Propeller Bar has a panoramic view of the habourfront precinct and fireworks. The rooftop bar is the ideal chill out spot for the family after a day of fun. Enjoy a range of tantalising dishes suitable for everyone, happy hour drinks and some of Singapore's best cocktails. Choose from the bartenders specials or a bespoke, while enjoying the great service and atmosphere.

6. SINGAPORE FLYER

We've already listed a few ways to get great views over Singapore, but if you're looking for a birds eye view, in something a little more luxurious, you can take a ride on Asia's largest, giant ferris wheel, The Singapore Flyer . The pods are kept clean and modern, allowing a scenic trip over the Marina, which measures 165 metres at its tallest point. It take around thirty minutes to do a full rotation but it doesn't end there. You can choose from different packages and enjoy champagne, or even a romantic dinner, if you're taking some alone time. With other activities, like 'flight experience', where you can be a pilot for the day, XD Theatre, shopping, dining and much more, it is a great choice for the day!

7. ART SCIENCE MUSEUM

The iconic, lotus inspired ArtScience Museum is SouthEast Asia's leading cultural institution, that explores the interrelationship between art, science, technology and culture. The museum has interesting permanent and touring exhibitions. Both entertaining and educational, it is a great visit for all the family. Check out their website to see what they have on during your visit and get an up to date price on tickets.

8. WILD WILD WET SINGAPORE

Situated in downtown east, Wild Wild Wet is one of Singapore's largest waterparks. The park was awarded Pro-Family Business Mark for providing numerous family-friendly facilities, such as lifejackets, baby carriers, nursing rooms and shower cubicles. They have the variety of rides to match with adrenaline pumping slides to a kids zone. It is one of Singapore’s most popular waterparks with a range of ticket options that you can purchase online, but you can also get these at the venue on the day of entry if you prefer. A great family fun-filled option, especially if you’re looking to cool off from the Singapore heat!

Written by Clare Fisher
Instagram @traveltheworldfamily
Facebook @TTWFamilyOfficial
www.traveltheworldfamily.com

How To Buy Travel Insurance

183:718469410 (Clare Fisher) — Wed, 14 Mar 2018 19:44:05 GMT

5 Helpful Tips

Gone are my 20's, just like the days when travel insurance was considered a luxury. Now it doesn't matter who, how old or healthy you are, everyone KNOWS how important it is to have it. You add a family with kids, and travel over a prolonged period of time to the equation, and you've just increased the chances someone is going to have to claim. With that in mind, do you really fancy having no support if the worst happened and having to fork out the cash when it does.......even held hostage until you pay it? No, no-one does, and chances are, you know someone who has had to claim, no matter how big or small the problem.

1. DO NOT BUY BASED ON PRICE ALONE
Back when I started buying travel insurance, I always used to opt for the cheapest I could find, but when a friend of mine needed to claim on one of our trips, with the same company, I realised the policy was not worth the paper it was written on. Consider the features and terms and conditions, over the price. There is no point in buying a policy just because it is cheap, only to end up being stung, because you think you're covered, and quite simply, you're not. You know, like one of those adverts where they say 'Hey! You're covered!' and then spend the next half hour whizzing through all the scenarios you won't be covered in, which ends up being most. Choosing the best policy for you with a great company, doesn't mean you have to compromise on price, as we found out.

2. REPUTATION AND FIRST IMPRESSIONS
When I was first told about Holiday Safe Travel Insurance , for example, I saw a lot of awards and great reviews. This is important. There is a reason WHY awards are achieved and people leave good reviews. For example the first thing you see when you click to Holiday Safe's website is:
Moneywise Customer Service Awards 2016
Moneywise Most Trusted Travel Insurance Provider 2016
Money facts Travel Insurance Provider of The Year 2016
Which? Best Rate Travel Insurance Since 2010
Paying customers before you, will tell you everything you need to know about a company you are wanting to use. Review sites like Trust Pilot and Trip Advisor are great to check out before making a final decision. They will never please everyone, so never expect a 100% positive feedback, but you can usually tell with a high score and enough reviews, who you are dealing with.

3.MAKE SURE IT IS EASY TO GET A HOLD OF THEM
You can't put a price on being able to speak to someone when you want or need to. A lot of companies offer the option to buy their services and provide customer service, mainly online. For a lot of people this works well, but for me personally, I like to be able to speak to someone on the phone. That time when you're away and want to clarify something right away or when the worst happens and you just really need to speak to someone, I think it is really important to be able to do that. Whatever option you prefer, online or over the phone, even if the company is reputable, make sure it is easy to get in touch with them.

4. MAKE SURE YOU CHOSE THE RIGHT POLICY
This is another reason why, I just prefer to speak to someone and get advice from a professional. For example, we are a family of four, going on continuous travel, for nine months to begin with. I had absolutely no idea, what kind of policy I needed. At first we were looking at multi trip policies, but discovered we needed a backpacker package. It can be so time consuming and confusing trying to figure out what is best. When I called Holiday Safe, they run through all our plans and were able to tell us which was the right one. They run through all those things that I wouldn't have even thought about, despite the fact I have been buying travel insurance online for years, particularly helpful when you're doing something new, like travelling the world. While discussing our plans, loads of questions came up and when we were able to understand what was covered as standard, we were then able to add on extras. Having a tailor made policy, gives you peace of mind.

5. ALWAYS READ THE SMALL PRINT
Going for a good policy with a good company, also doesn't mean you're covered for 'everything'. If you're like me, you won't read the small print on everything you ever buy, but travel insurance, is one instance you should ALWAYS do this. Even with chatting to someone on the phone when you buy your policy, you will always have questions come into your mind afterwards.....'am I covered for this, am I covered for that?' and always have surprises as to what you are not covered for. It is known that as a family, we like to jump off really high cliffs into water, but on reading the policy, I understand that if a giant squid was to eat us or we were to hurt ourselves on some rocks, we would not be covered under the terms. We are however, covered for bungee jumping! A lot of the activities we want to participate in are covered, but as soon as you want to do 'winter sports', you need to add this on as an extra. This is why its also a good idea to print the insurance documents and keep them on you as you travel for any instances you might want to double check.

BONUS TIP!
PURCHASE YOUR TRAVEL INSURANCE AS SOON AS YOU ARRANGE THE TRAVEL
Pre-holiday cover is something a lot of people still don't think about but imagine you have to cancel your trip and you still have not got around to sorting the insurance, because it is still a few weeks away! Planning a gap year of travel with our family for the last year, has meant there has been plenty of time for things to go wrong, and several times in that period, it did. There were many occasions we thought we may have to cancel the whole thing and I can't tell you how nice it is, to know that you won't be loosing money through cancelling things, especially when you're already stressed with the reason for cancelling!

We hope these few simple tips we've picked up, help you in choosing, what is a must buy now with any travel. If you have found it helpful please leave us some love with a like or a comment, or even pop us a message :) We personally use holidaysafe and if you would like to get a quote with these, simply click the link below. We do not use affiliate links on our website at all. Holiday safe have gifted our policy in exchange for some honest feedback using their services. After some of the tips above, we chose holiday safe as our travel insurance provider. We will not work with any brands or companies, unless they are our personal choice for the services they provide.

A Weekend In Cornwall With Our Quirky Camper, Agnes

Tue, 06 Mar 2018 19:38:24 GMT

Our first camper van experience.....we're hooked!

Are you a family that really loves the idea of camping in a van, but have literally no experience? Does the thought of trying to do every day things, in a small van, make you really anxious? Yes, that was us also! I think it's made worse for us by the fact that my parents are EXPERTS with anything to do with camping or vans! They not only help to run a campsite but they have had vans for as long as I can remember and they currently have a van that is so big, it puts most homes to shame! They are forever talking about new gadgets, maintenance and things that generally sound very scary! Although I grew up enjoying many trips with them, I was far too busy running around playing to learn anything and as soon as I was old enough, was off on my own adventures, but none of them in a van!

QUIRKY
There is something so appealing about being so close to nature and the freedom that comes with a camper van, that we just could not resist it anymore, especially when we came across Quirky Campers on Instagram . We were instantly captivated by not just the quirky and unique features of all the vans, but also the love and care that has gone into creating such incredible little homes. From the time of deciding to book a van, we received the best customer service from Quirky Campers. The lovely Caroline, personally helped us choose a van and on doing so, we were soon introduced to the camper vans owner, who also did everything they could to make sure our experience was perfect.

MEET AGNES AND HER FREEDOM
We chose the lovely Agnes , who resides in Cornwall, a three hour drive from our home in Porthcawl. At first we decided to bring Agnes back to Wales and spend the weekend in the Brecon Beacons but after hearing of Cornwall's beauty, we decided to stick around! We picked Agnes up from the beautiful little town on St Agnes, but not before stopping in the mysterious town of Tintagel on the way. The kids really enjoy learning about history and when we told them the legend of King Arthur and Merlin, we all just had to see it. We loved it so much and didn't get enough time to see everything we wanted, so we decided we would pick Agnes up and head straight back to Tintagel. At this point, we already started to feel the freedom of camping in a van and I must admitt, it is beautiful feeling!

WHAT HAPPENS AT PICK UP?
On picking Agnes up, we had already transferred all the documents over to her owner, which meant for a speedy pick up. The greeting was very warm and finished with a tour of Agnes, so we knew exactly what was what. I can tell you this put my mind at ease, so before we even pulled away, all those niggling questions and worry had left me. Polly, the owner, gave me her contact details and was at the end of the phone if I needed anything, again, a weight lifted! I was then directed to Agnes' guide, written by her owners. It contained everything we needed to know, from how to put the water on to tips on how to drive her, which leads me to what was my next worry!

BUT WHAT IF I CRASH?
Im sure it's something that goes through all our heads when we pick up any hire vehicle, but this was especially true when I picked up Agnes who was built with so much love and care. However, I soon read about all the memories that had been made in Agnes' guide, which put me to ease along with learning of the inclusive insurance that is arranged for you. So, with all my experience from driving transit vans, through so many home moves, I was off! Cornwall does have quite small, windy roads at times, but nothing that careful driving and sensible speeds can't handle.

ANY PROBLEMS?
The whole weekend, was a dream. We did not have a single fault or problem with Agnes and we did not have a drop of rain. Now I can't promise you the latter, but if you have even half the fun, freedom and fresh air we did, you will never forget your experience with Agnes or Quirky Campers. We wanted for nothing, She came with everything we needed, grill, hobs, sink and even spot lights in the ceiling and plug sockets! Don't be fooled by her exterior, she is quite equipped. We drove around to explore the area, we caught probably the best sunset we have ever seen from the side of the road, and we snuggled in together at night, before bed, with hot chocolate, made with hot water from the best kettle EVER! In fact, I had so much fun experiencing Agnes and camping in a van, that I forgot on several occasions that, yes, I should probably take some photos!

WHAT DID THE KIDS THINK?
If you have children, there is nothing more you can do for them, than take them on a trip in a camper van, with bunk beds AND fairy lights. PS Agnes has all of these things. Give it a try! Ask your kids if they would enjoy it and pop their response in the comments, so I have can have a chuckle. Legal notice: I can not be held responsible for the constant nagging you experience afterwards, as to when it is going to happen! Agnes has space for three small bunks, but Polly her owner, kindly only put two in the van so we would have more room. Of course you also have the seating area that converts into a spacious double bed at night time, well actually, whenever you want! If you want to sit and watch the sea all day in bed, why not? They didn't ask for their iPad or our phones to play on, they were too busy enjoying the experience and when we did activities, we coloured in their books and played eye spy! There was no bed time struggle in Agnes by the way. I don't know if you've ever slept in a camper van but everyone sleeps like logs. If anyone knows why that is, please let me know :)

WHERE CAN YOU GO WITH HER?
In the UK, Cornwall apparently is becoming less and less friendly for campers, but I have to say we did not have any problems. I can't speak for summer, where it apparently does get very busy, but we visited in mid March and it seemed like the perfect place for a camper van. There are of course a lot of camping sites you can book in or turn up to, if you would like to hook up to electricity and run heaters etc, and you can pay anywhere between £10 and £40 a night. This of course, will come with some facilities but we wanted a really authentic experience and so decided to look at other options. I always thought you could just park anywhere you want and sleep, but that is not the case. There are some free sites out there and a great app to find these is park4night but if you want to park on the roads, you have to make sure you have permission and if using car parks, be sure to pay the fees noted. Cornwall had some great car parks, geared toward campers and we paid just £4 for 24 hours in King Arthur car park! We also had home made food and drinks in the King Arthur pub next to it, the one evening, it was lovely. It wasn't cheap, but you get what you pay for and we figured we had saved a load on pitching :) A lot of pubs in the area also offer the option, for you to park in their car park for free, if you have food and or drinks.

WILL WE BOOK AGNES AGAIN?
The answer is yes. YES YES YES. Nothing brings a family together like camping, and after doing it in a van, I'm hooked. You do not have any putting up and down of tents, you don't leave her behind when you go exploring, she comes with you. There was no manual labour or hard work involved, like I thought there would be. It wasn't complicated at all, in fact she showed me the beauty in simplicity. She came with a helpful little camping toilet which was so easy to empty and the water that was provided with her, lasted the whole weekend. If your going to book Agnes in the thick of winter, it would be best to bring a heater and hook up on a site, but otherwise you can use her all year round. We've fallen in love with Agnes and what she offers. We made memories that we will never forget, so I have asked her owners if they could make us her twin <3 If you're going to camp in a van, go Quirky!

Visit London, in two days, with kids, on a budget!

Tue, 30 Jan 2018 17:20:19 GMT

So if you want to take the kids to London for the weekend and you don't have a lot of money to play with, this should help! If you don't have a lot of time in London, this can actually help you save money. With so many free activities and things to do, you can plan ahead to make sure you have a fun filled, budget friendly, jam packed time. Another great thing about London, is the variety of things to do. You can really tailor your visit to the likes and ages of your children. Mine being 4 and 6 now, are still happy running around in open spaces, feeding ducks and staring at all the people and big buildings. If yours are older and need a bit more stimulation, there is still plenty to do.

PLANNING - It's a pretty big thing. If you're a parent reading this, you know all too well that you can wake up, turn around to look at the clock and it's almost time for lunch! If you be 'on purpose' in London, you can really make the most of your time. The same goes for moving around. Even though you can pop on the tube and quickly get from one place to another, if you throw in the walking time and getting off or on at a few wrong stops, and you might not get in as much as you think. So as much as I hate planning (I'm the free spirited one), I hate to admit it, but its a must here, especially if you have people with little legs with you. A fun time can quickly turn to a disaster, filled with tantrums, if you push the walking too much. Top tip - remember to bribe LOL. This sounds awful but my kids thoroughly enjoy almost everything we persuade them to do (even the walking), by promising them something we know they will enjoy at the end. If they had had their way, they would have spent around £200, going on the carousel over and over again, for around 10 hours. Not fun for anyone, even them. It's good to know where you're going and familiarise yourself with London , as one Landmark could be at one end and another at the other end. If you're going to be using the London Underground like us, you can pick the little maps up everywhere when you get into London or you can check out the tube map here . Using this link you can even find out the walking times between stations. We visited in winter, with not so many hours daylight, so if you're planning to see something in daylight, be mindful it gets dark by 4pm on a bad day! Check out sunrise and sunset times here.

THINGS TO DO!

VISIT LANDMARKS - You can create your very own FREE sightseeing tour. By the time you choose a few of these to visit over the two days and plan your route, you can fill almost all of your time! We chose;

THE LONDON EYE - You don't need to ride on this eye catching attraction to really enjoy it, especially with it lit up at night. Even if you have got the cash to splash, it's worth considering if the kids will actually enjoy it. Will they be scared at the top? You can see great views over London for free, without dangling from a pod in the sky.

HUNGERFORD BRIDGE - This is just a little bit down from the London Eye, so it would be rude not to have a walk along it, especially with the great design, as it looks great in photos! It is generally a lot quieter than Westminster Bridge, so you can enjoy the Thames a bit more.

WESTMINSTER BRIDGE - If you visit soon or have been recently, you will notice large, secured, metal bollards in place. This will be unusual to see if you are a regular to London and if you haven't been, you will probably wonder what they are because of the unusual shape and sheer size. These have recently been put in place, following a series of terrorist attacks in London. For us, visiting so soon after the attacks and watching the tragedy unfold on television, seeing these makes a visit to the historic bridge, quite emotional.

HOUSES OF PARLIAMENT AND BIG BEN - Check out our London photos and you will see that Big Ben was under repair during our visit. This was a little disappointing at first but later when we got home, we watched a documentary on the repairs and it was great to learn more about the big clock and how complex the whole procedure is. Again seeing these landmarks in person, really is breathtaking in itself. When you come out of the tube and walk up the steps to see them right in front of you, the beauty, detail and scale is amazing.

BUCKINGHAM PALACE - Be sure to check out 'parks' below, as I mention ST James's Park follows on great from this, with it being so close. In general most of the places you visit in London will be filled with tourists, and the Palace is no different, unless you want to make it there for sunrise. Entry into the Palace is pricey but there are always guards around marching outside, which the kids really enjoy and it helps to keep costs down. We were lucky to see a horse and cart picking someone up inside the fences but also if you time it right you can watch the Changing Of The Guard , which is also free!

TRAFALGAR SQUARE - The kids loved the fountains and the giant Lion statues here. They even got some photos on one!

and of course we had some fun in the famous, 'Red Telephone Box'.

If your kids are a little older they might appreciate you bringing along some in detail history about each of them, or looking something up on google, but ours can't remember what they had for tea the night before LOL so generally we just give them a little of what we know on each thing, and hope for the best. It might seem like a lot to see, but I didn't want to go all the way to London to see and do things I can do in any other place. So as much as Im sure all the attractions you can pay for in London are great to do, like a boat ride on the Thames , a ride on the London Eye, The View from the Shard , if you can't afford it or are really on a tight budget, there is really no need. We didn't choose these, but don't forget, you also have many museums and great places to get a good view over London, for free. The Tate is a good one, not just because of the range of Art but also the views over London. We will also, definitly check out 'Sky Garden' next time! It is one of the newest skyscrapers to appear on London's skyline and is it's highest public garden, with free observation decks. Best of all it's free!

2. PARKS
This could technically go into the category above, but I think they deserve one of their own because they take you into a completely different world within the urban jungle and you can spend a lot of time there before you even know it, with so much to do. We chose St James's Park and Kensington Palace, within Kensington Gardens.

ST JAMES'S PARK - We chose St James's mainly because it's right by Buckingham Palace and we walked through it to get to the next place, but having been there, I'm so happy we went! It has the most beautiful lake, which even the kids stared at for some time. There is a fun little park at the beginning which gives the kids a break from walking and sight seeing. This closed on this day at 4ish (like Central Park in New York, these parks are huge, so check out maps). There was so much wildlife here, even in winter, I was so shocked to see. There are always people around with nuts or seeds feeding the animals, that are very kind and offer some to the kids. Check out our videos and you will see the squirrel came right up to Kallan and gently took the nut from the palm of his hand.
Have you ever seen the 'bird lady' in home alone 2? Well St James's Park has it's very own 'bird man' and if you visit, I really hope you get to see him. We visited at around 4pm....I have my fingers crossed for you! The birds flocked around him, sat on his head, shoulders, arms and ate food straight from his hands. It is so humbling to see someone taking time to feed wild animals with food they have bought, yet they have holes in their own clothes. With the chill of winter running through your body, the most beautiful backdrop and huge magical trees, towering over your head, so close to christmas, this was the most warming sight ever.

KENSINGTON GARDENS - I almost don't even feel like I can blog about these places properly, as I have since checked out the parks website and seen just how much there is to do here, yet here I am pointing out just one or two. But this is my point with London, you can't do it all in a weekend. We chose Kensington Gardens because we stayed in a hotel in Kensington, so location wise it just made sense, and we had a very special time here! I felt like there were a lot of open spaces and as soon as we got in through the gates, the kids started running around like they had never seen grass before. With huge trees and winding paths the kids spent quite a bit of time playing and even convinced me to have a little game of 'you're it'. It is a great place to teach them about trees and nuts because there are many different kinds. Further up from the point we entered, you come to the palace but you won't need to do any educating here! There is a large white statue of the queen that sits in front of the palace and there is now an interactive feature, that sits along side it. When you connect, by entering details or scanning the information, the queen calls you! Yes that's right, she actually calls your mobile phone, says hello, asks a question and then starts walking you through a little history....she even cracks a little joke! Of course I know the queen is not calling, but you should have seen the kids faces! I caught them on camera, so be sure to check out vlog 3 when its finished. Across the way from the palace, is another beautiful lake, with so many birds, ducks and swans.

3. FOOD

When it comes to food, the best thing about London, is you have literally every type of food you could possibly want to choose from and if you're a foodie like me, again you will think 'food', deserves it's own section. It is one of the things I don't mind spending money on, because its one of the things we need. Plus, when you're doing it three or four times a day, getting good food can really make a difference to how you remember the trip! Whether you're on the prowl for vegan (click here for my favourite vegan restaurant) , street, michelin star, London will have what you're fancying. Now Im going to contradict myself here, because although I said I don't want to do something here, I can do in other places, we decided on Nando's the one night. It is one of my favourite places, its familiar, we really fancied it, hadn't been there in ages and do you know what, after a full day of being outside, literally being as London as we could be, Nando's was honestly perfect. So another perk, is it has all the comfortable choices you're probably used to if you live in Wales like us; good old pub food and restaurant chains. If you're anywhere in London and you know what you're fancying, you can look online and it won't be far away. Big tips with saving on food, would be get a good deal, with a hotel and breakfast included, so you can nip downstairs and everyone can fill their boots. With all the walking you can work up quite an appetite, so if this only keeps you tied over until lunchtime, you can pick up some cheap street food, or sandwiches for lunch! You can then eat these anywhere with a great view. We ate them in the park and it was perfect. We also got to feed the ducks the leftovers :) By the time you've toured London, you might be quite happy to crash in your accommodation with a take away, but if not check out this link to find a good place to eat in London.

4. TRAVEL

WE VOTE LONDON UNDERGROUND - I suppose this one ,will really come down to the individual and what you find entertaining, but the moving around itself, is time consuming and fun. Whatever way you choose to do it, a roof top double decker bus, a black taxi cab, a tuck tuck, a boat ride, you should be entertained. With both time and money being a priority, I would recommend the London Underground. It is quick, easy, cheap and kids under 10 years go free. Even though you won't do much sightseeing on the underground, you can people watch aaaallllll day! Plus the kids love a good train ride.

5. THE EXTRAS

Of course when you're travelling around, you will come across little things here and there that you can do.

CAROUSEL - Just up from the London Eye is a beautiful little carousel that the kids spotted right away. At 2 pound a go, its not too expensive, its a welcome little treat in between all the free stuff and it's a great opportunity to spend some time by the Thames.

ARCADE - Down the steps, by Westminster Bridge is an arcade. The kids had a little flutter on the 2p machines on the way past. Another little break from walking and a chance to get out of the cold and warm up.

SHOPPING - We had a little nose in some of the shops as we passed in Kensington and even though this isn't the main shopping area of London, in general everything is bigger and better. In London, some of the shops themselves are an experience and if we had had more time, we would have like to have visited the famous Harrods .

MONUMENTS - As we walked around London, we passed many monuments and the kids always enjoy getting photos by these and learning about who they are or what they represent.

LONDON'S MUSICIANS - I don't like the word 'busker' so I prefer to call them London's musicians, after all many of them are super talented and it just wouldn't be London without a variety of music on every corner. Rather than walk past, we always give the kids a little donation to pop into the hat and then we have a little dance! Yes you might be the only ones doing it but hey, you get a chance to stop in the madness, enjoy the music and put a smile on the artists face, as Im sure it can get disheartening playing all day to people walking right past. Check out our cinematic video from London and you will see Ian and Maddie have a little dance!

LONDON'S HOMELESS - They are always in need. It won't take you very long to come across someone who doesn't have a home and although you won't help everyone on your visit, we always try our best to help at least someone. We were lucky enough to pass a cafe van one evening, on our way to food. It was either dedicated to the homeless or they were doing something especially for them that night. Even though we didn't need to buy any food or drink, it was lovely for us all to see the help on such a big scale and we even got to have a chat with everyone. This was Kallan and Maddie's first time seeing someone homeless where they started asking questions and I think it's important for them to learn about difficulties anyone can experience, not just so they can be grateful for what they have, but also so they know they can help. If you see someone homeless, it is best not to offer money. Instead get them a hot drink and/or some food and make contact with Street Link . In London, 75% of people who sleep rough do so for only one night thanks to charities like this. Give them as much information as you can and they will do what they can to get them off the street and get them the support they need. They even send you an update on the person within 10 days if you have requested it.

HOTEL FACILITIES - I would be lying if I said the hotel is just a place to sleep for us. Don't get me wrong, if it was a total dive, sure I wouldn't spend much time there, but in general, the 'staying in a hotel' is a big part of the fun for us. As a result, we tend to choose very carefully and always try to book somewhere with great facilities, it doesn't mean you cant get a good deal. You've paid for this hotel and especially when you are on a budget, you would be cheating yourself if you didn't make the most of it. Picture this - a long day out in London, you're sweaty from all the walking but also chilly from being outside all day, the kids have loved the day (because you've bribed them and promised to take them swimming when you get back). Your food has had a chance to digest so you all jump in the pool, the kids use the last of the little energy they have left, their evening shower is taken care of when you get them out and boom.....back to the room and they sleep right through. It is okay, you're welcome :) Feel free to thank me in the comments! LOL That refreshing feeling after a day like this? PRICELESS! Anyway, when choosing a hotel in London, we highly recommend staying very central. We stayed in The Holiday Inn, Kensington High Street . Very nice, great value and amazing location. When you're travelling around central London all day, the last thing you want is a big journey in and out of it too!

So all in all, we didn't spend a whole lot of money!
Hotel - We all stayed in the same room and in the same bed it was so big! Our children are still quite small so we can get away with it. £150 with breakfast and parking included but Im sure you can get cheaper.
Train - You pay as you go on the underground and this can actually save you money , even doing several journeys. It is also capped, so if you get to the point where you've spent the same as a day ticket, you won't pay anymore. If more than one adult is travelling, you will each need a card to use the pay as you go facility. £10 for two days tube.
Food - £40 per day with snacks.
Carousel - £4
Arcade - £2
Donation - £1

TOTAL - £247

We will be visiting again soon, so if you guys have any tips for our next time, please comment them below so we can all benefit <3 If you enjoyed or this helped you in some way, let us know below :D

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