Online Travel

February 26, 2010

Amsterdam For Kids

Filed under: City Guide, Travel — admin @ 10:56 am

When many people think of Amsterdam, its many decidedly adult-oriented attractions immediately spring to mind. Thanks to the notoriety of the city’s lax marijuana laws and its infamous Red Light district, many parents skip over Amsterdam altogether when planning a holiday that includes the kids. This is unfortunate, though, because Amsterdam has a delightful array of family-oriented attractions for children of all ages to enjoy. If you’d like to spend some time in Amsterdam with your children, keep the following kid-friendly options in mind.

  1. Canal Cruises – Amsterdam’s canals are some of its most endearing features, and canal cruises are immensely popular. The vast majority of children aren’t going to turn up their noses at the chance to travel on an open-topped boat, so why not spend a few hours with the kids on a canal cruise? For best results, wait for a fair weather day to do so – then sit back and enjoy the awe and excitement that your kids are bound to display as the boat ferries you around some of Amsterdam’s most intriguing sights.
  2. NEMO – If one thing’s for sure, it’s this: Amsterdam is chock full of museums. To be sure, many of those museums won’t hold the average child’s attention or interest for very long; the NEMO museum is one definite exception. This hands-on science and technology museum will thrill children of all ages, with four floors of exhibits that are geared and designed specifically for the under-18 set. Whether it’s a rainy day or not, NEMO is always a great choice.
  3. Kinderkookkafe (Children’s Cook Cafe) – Amsterdam is known for being a bit on the quirky side; children can get a taste of that by visiting the Kinderkookkafe. At this popular Amsterdam spot, kids don chef’s hatd and dish up meals all by themselves. This role reversal delights children of all ages, and makes for many prime photo opportunities as well.
  4. Vondelpark – Amsterdam’s equivalent of New York’s Central Park or London’s Hyde Park is its Vondelpark, which is a topnotch place to while away an afternoon with the kids when in the city. Centrally located near many Amsterdam hotels, Vondelpark is dotted with playgrounds that kids of all ages will adore; its Groot Melkhuis play area is a definite standout. With several hotels in Amsterdam within easy walking distance, Vondelpark is easy to find and a lot of fun for the whole family.

Brighton For Kids

Filed under: Travel, UK Holiday — admin @ 10:55 am

Every season of the year there are loads of things to see and do with your children in the family friendly city of Brighton. From cool museums and relaxing parks to simply taking a stroll along the famous Brighton pier, there are practically an endless array of activities in Brighton that will keep you and your kids busy.

Brighton Toy and Model Museum

No matter how young or old your children may be, the Brighton Toy and Model Museum is sure to be a big hit. With over 4000 square feet of wall to wall models and toys, there is something at the Brighton Toy and Model Museum for just about everyone. The museum is geared towards traditional toys and models, so you can expect to see a large number of dolls, trains and puppets.

The Volks Railway

If you have some younger children in tow, it is worth your while to stop by the Volks Railway, the oldest electrical railway on the entire planet. The Volks Railway runs along a full mile of beach all the way from the Brighton Pier to the beach and is a popular way to get around during the summer. Although the railway was designed with the intention to provide a temporary attraction to the beach during the summer of 1883, the railway was such a hit with children that it has been in continuous operation for well over a century.

Brighton Sea Life Centre

There is nothing quite like taking your children to an aquarium and watching them explore the world of life under the sea. At the Brighton Sea Life Centre, you will find some 150 different species of aquatic life going about their business in 57 unique displays. One of the newest additions to the aquarium is the Amazon Adventure exhibit, featuring the exotic fish and amphibians located in the heart of the jungle.

No matter what takes you Brighton, there are hotels in Brighton to suit every style and budget. Rest assured that the family friendly hotels Brighton has to offer can accommodate all of your families needs.

How The Global Recession Has Changed The Hotel Industry

Filed under: Travel — admin @ 10:49 am

The global recession has changed the hotel industry in the UK and other countries in a manner similar to the impact upon other travel related industries. The brunt of the recession has settled on the mid-market brands. Business for budget brands such as Holiday Inn Express, Travelodge and Premier Inn has actually increased.

Research indicates a change in holiday plans from long stays away from home to shorter stays nearby at budget hotels and holiday camps. Rapid growth is occurring in the short break market for persons staying from one to four nights. This rise in room nights over the past few years is not large enough to offset the long stay market losses.

Other general economic factors also affect the UK hotel industry. Bad weather, the credit crunch and a decline in jobs work against the industry as holiday travel is curtailed or eliminated. Business travellers are switching to budget hotel brands. This trend can be directly correlated to the timing of the economic downturn beginning in 2008. In a positive reaction, the budget hotel brands have worked hard to improve their offerings to compete with the mid-market brands. Guests can get much better deals than previously. Business brand awareness has been converting to membership in new loyalty programmes.

The Internet benefits the hotel industry because booking rooms is easier. It is a way for brands to reach out to business guests. Guests use cheap hotel websites for information about best deals and to book rooms online. Generic travel websites like Yahoo! Travel, Travel.com or hotels.com are most frequently used by potential guests.

Hotel loyalty programmes are another method to entice guests to book their holidays at all types of hotels. Over half of frequent business guests belong to some loyalty programme that offers special benefits to customers. Economically strapped travellers want to be rewarded for their loyalty. Many cheap hotel chains are now offering superior rewards, upgrades and extra amenities just to attract entry level customers.

Maintaining consistent service and quality standards is essential to combat economic woes. Excellent service, appropriate location and good value are top priorities when guests book rooms at luxury or cheap hotels.

Brighton At Night

Filed under: City Guide — admin @ 10:47 am

Brighton’s daytime attractions definitely get a lot of attention and are a prime reason that many a traveller plans holidays in this engaging seaside city. After the sun goes down, though, there’s still plenty of things to keep virtually anyone occupied – and entertained. In fact, many people visit Brighton solely to partake in its vibrant and exciting nightlife; with more bars and clubs per capita than anyplace in the UK outside of London, Brighton is a veritable nightlife mecca. You don’t have to hit the pubs, bars and clubs to have a spectacular time here, though; check out some of the top after-dark options in Brighton below.

A Booming Theatre Scene Provides Topnotch Entertainment

With its bevy of state of the art theatres and other stage venues, it’s little wonder that Brighton is often affectionately referred to as “West End By The Sea.” A wonderful way to break up a holiday in Brighton is by heading out to see a show at one of its famous theatres. The Theatre Royal, for instance, is perhaps the most venerable and well known of all of Brighton’s performance venues; seeing a show there is an unforgettable experience. Meanwhile, the Brighton Centre regularly features well known performers and unique shows. Finally, check to see if any major acts will be performing at the Dome Complex; chances are, somebody good will be.

Small Venues Showcase Up-And-Coming Talent

Big shows are well and good, but Brighton boasts its own fair share of small venues where aspiring artists take the stage to show their skills to eager crowds. Hitting a smaller venue like the Concorde2 is a great way to learn about emerging musical talent while still enjoying a fast-paced and exciting night on the town. If thumping music isn’t your thing, Brighton is also awash in topnotch comedy venues; try heading over to Komedia to take in uproarious stand-up routines from some of the most promising names in comedy. Comedy venues in Brighton serve up delicious food and steady streams of drinks, ensuring that nobody goes hungry or thirsty while on the premises.

Dance Or Schmooze The Night Away At Brighton Bars And Clubs

Besides London, there is nowhere else in the UK where revelers can take advantage of a higher concentration of bars and clubs. Indeed, Brighton is bursting at its seams with such places and cheap hotels in Brighton help sweeten the deal considerably. The abundance of cheap Brighton hotels ensures that party goers can dance or drink the night away at places like the Creation Club or the Funky Buddha Lounge without worrying about finding their way home. When you head out for a night on the town in Brighton, be prepared for an endless stream of fun.

The Lake District’s Cosiest Pubs

Filed under: Travel, UK Holiday — admin @ 10:46 am

Fell walking is what brings the vast majority of visitors to the Lake District; hundreds of splendid trails and areas to explore can keep you busy from sunup to sundown. After exerting yourself on those scenic – and sometimes demanding – trails, nothing beats repairing to a class English pub to unwind, relax and enjoy a few pints. Happily, the Lake District is positively brimming with noteworthy pubs; the five cosiest pubs in this popular region are highlighted below.

  1. The Shepherd’s Inn – Centrally located in Melmerby, the Shepherd’s Inn is a comfortable, old style pub that is sure to please even the most discerning traveller. Its red brick and slate roof design lends it an old fashioned, venerable air – and its proximity to many prime walks makes it a popular gathering place for locals and tourists alike.
  2. String Of Horses – If you’ll be staying or walking in or near Faugh, the String of Horses pub is always a good choice. It’s been standing since 1690, making it one of the oldest public houses in the Lake District. Open fires, wood panels and low beams enhance the cosy and intimate nature of this place, making all who walk through its doors feel welcomed. After a long day of fell walking, this is a prime place to throw back a few pints.
  3. The Drunken Duck – This rather isolated watering hole in Barngates got its name for being the site where a landlady’s ducks met their maker after overindulging. Quirky name aside, the Drunken Duck is a friendly establishment where nobody is treated like a stranger – and where a never-ending line of locally brewed ales is yours for the asking.
  4. Old Dungeon Ghyll – Situated on the fells in Great Langdale, the Old Dungeon Ghyll has serving up pints for more than 300 years. Taking a load off after tramping about the many phenomenal fells in the region is especially enjoyable here; be sure to check out the nearby waterfall, too.
  5. Sun Inn – If you’re lucky enough to find yourself in Dent on a sunny day, head over to the Sun Inn. Among the many Lake District hotels, the Sun Inn stands apart for its garden where people can enjoy drinks on nice days. Although it is rather popular, the Sun Inn is a suitable last minute hotel choice for travellers whose itineraries aren’t set in stone.

London’s Best Spots For People Watching

Filed under: City Guide, Hotel Reviews, London — admin @ 10:45 am

Many times, it’s all too tempting to try to cram as many attractions, landmarks and other sites into a holiday in London. By the end of a whirlwind day, travellers are often completely spent and can hardly remember all of the things they saw and did. Slowing down the pace when in the city is never a bad idea, and one of the best ways to do so is by people watching. People watching in a major city like London can be vastly entertaining – and it’s totally free! The next time you’re in London, settle in at one of the following spots and enjoy some topnotch people watching.

  • Trafalgar Square – As one of the most famous squares in the entire world, Trafalgar Square is immensely popular with tourists and locals alike. Something’s always happening in this centrally located spot, and there are plenty of stone benches where you can settle in for an hour or two of prime people watching. No matter when you visit, there’s bound to be something entertaining to take in at this famous landmark.

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  • Covent Garden – With its exceptional shopping and dining opportunities, overabundance of entertainment options and steady flow of street performers, Covent Garden is a natural choice for anyone who wants to engage in a bit of people watching when in London. The main plaza here is an excellent choice, or you could just stroll through the Covent Garden Market and immerse yourself in the hustle and bustle of this centrally located spot.

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  • Piccadilly Circus – Since it’s a famous and easy-to-find junction, Piccadilly Circus is a popular place for Londoners to meet up; tourists also flock here to snap pictures of its many famous and all-too-familiar buildings. A wide array of cheap hotels in London are also located within a reasonable distance of Piccadilly, adding to its congested and vibrant nature. By spending only an hour or two here, you can get your fill of people watching in London.

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  • Hyde Park – The largest and most famous of London’s many great parks is undoubtedly Hyde Park. If you only have time to visit a single park while in the city, make it this one. The eclectic mix of people who pass through make Hyde Park a veritable melting pot – and a wonderful people watching venue. Several cheap hotels in London can be found directly adjacent to the sprawling park, making it even more convenient.

    • London’s Hippest Hotels

    Filed under: City Guide, Hotel Reviews, London — admin @ 10:43 am

    Looking for a stylish spot to stay in London? Look no further. This is your guide to the hippest hotels in The Big Smoke. Style is defined by where several things: where a hotel is located, who frequents the place, and what kind of posh accommodations are waiting for you. These hotels have it all.

    Charlotte Street Hotel
    It’s not just the series of swanky restaurants on Charlotte Street that make the street famous; it’s the Charlotte Street Hotel. With Soho, Oxford Street, and Regent’s park just a couple minutes walk away, you’re located at the heart of all the action. The bathrooms are more accurately termed “spa” for their size and luxury—complete with TVs, granite countertops, and Molton Brown toiletries. This hotel embodies the term “luxury boutique hotel.”

    Andaz London
    It’s located in the heart of London’s financial district, and after checking room rates, you’ll figure out why. Don’t let the old-fashioned red brick Victorian façade fool you. The vintage exterior cloaks an ultra-modern hotel inside with amenities galore, luxury unbounded, and service unparalleled. You’re in for a treat, especially when it comes to the food.

    Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park
    This is the hotel where London-bound celebs choose to stay. You’ll probably even meet them if you sashay down to the bar in the evenings. This hotel has size, legend, and a level of chow that is second to none. Don’t leave the hotel without a few tranquil hours in the world-class spa, or a quick look at some of the priceless artwork.

    Sanderson
    If we’re talking hip, this one has it nailed. In fact, GQ dubbed the Sanderson “the hippest hotel in the world.” Prepare to be moonstruck by this uber-modern 21st century comfort. Located a glance away from Piccadily Circus in London’s West End, the hotel is close enough to the action, but once you go inside, you will be transported to another world—a world of class, comfort, and hip.

    St. Martin’s Lane
    For the art lovers, St. Martin’s Lane offers the ultimate in glam. The building isn’t the only creative aspect of this posh downtown wonder stay. It also has a unique chocolate menu, a series of house mixes at the award-winning bar, and a delightful option of an in-room massage. Nothing has been overlooked at St. Martin’s lane.

    So, while they may not fit the category of cheap hotels, these are places that you really want to stay. Above and beyond the flophouse cheap London hotels, these hip hotels are where it’s really at.

    Top 5 Things To Do On The Thames

    Filed under: City Guide, London — admin @ 10:42 am

    For people around the world, the River Thames is synonymous with the city of London. When one name pops up, the other one does as well. Throughout London’s history, the Thames has played a very significant role; it continues to do so to this day. For the thousands of people who come to London on holiday each year, the Thames presents many key sightseeing opportunities. The five top things to do on the River Thames are highlighted below for your convenience.

    1. Cruise Down The Thames – As sprawling as London is, taking in as many of its sights as possible can be logistically difficult. An easy and relaxing way to view key London attractions without overexerting yourself is by going on a cruise down the River Thames. Many cruises highlight top attractions like Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, the Tower of London and St. Paul’s Cathedral, among many others. A river cruise is a wonderful way to kick off a holiday in London.
    2. Visit The HMS Belfast – With its prime location near the Tower Bridge, the HMS Belfast – which served during the Second World War and is moored on the Thames – is an excellent option for families. Tours of the ship include some of its most intriguing rooms; an on-site cafe helps keep visitors from getting too hungry or thirsty.
    3. Check Out The Thames Barrier – The section of the Thames that passes through London is tidal; when the sea rises, water tends to rush up the river. In turn, major flooding can occur. In order to prevent that from happening, the Thames Barrier was developed. When not in use, it looks like an unassuming set of pillars; when high tide arrives, though, metal gates rise up to ward off the rising water.
    4. Walk Along The Thames At Night – Daytime strolls along the Thames are nice, but a nighttime walk on the banks of the river is positively breathtaking. The lights of the skyscrapers and the many nearby cheap London hotels reflect off of the water, producing a dazzling effect.
    5. Visit Cleopatra’s Needle – On the North Bank of the Thames – within walking distance of many cheap hotels London – sits an intriguing historical monument called Cleopatra’s Needle. It was given by Egypt in honour of Nelson’s victory over the French in the 1798 Battle of the Nile. Its counterpart can be found in New York City’s Central Park, and it’s a fascinating bit of history for any visitor to London to enjoy.

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