Thursday, July 6, 2017

Why A British Country Pub Hotel Is The Best Staycation Destination This Summer

Staycationing admittedly brings about connotations of camping in a muddy field and being woken up by the sounds of wandering cows, or being forced to endure a B&B with decor from the 80's that still things serving up soggy scrambled eggs is breakfast du jour. I spent many a summer holiday as a child on the British coast, and although those memories of caravans and Haven parks will always be treasured, it's not my idea of fun as an adult. With flights becoming more affordable and some of the European destinations being a similar price to a week at Butlins, it's understandable that we've collectively turned our noses up at the thought of staying at home - but with a whole new generation of gastro pub hotels and quaint rural locations opening their doors, staycationing has actually never been cooler. If you're anything like me and actually forget to sort out your summer break, then a weekend away in the country could be just what you need for a little relaxation and refresh; and it doesn't need to cost you a small fortune either.

At the end of last year I made a decision to book a handful of weekend getaways as something to look forward to, and The Fuzzy Duck was top of my list; only a two hour drive from central London and on the edge of the Cotswolds, it embodies this new generation of British country pub getaways and provides the perfect excuse to spend a few days away from city life. If you've yet to book yourself a little summer excursion, haven't the time to fly off somewhere exotic, or even if you've got kids and school holidays to contend with, here's why I'm such a fan of the country pub escape - and The Fuzzy Duck in particular. 

THE QUAINT SURROUNDINGS  Having lived in London for so long, I crave the countryside and greenery like it's going out of style. I adore tranquil cottages and little country roads, and the feeling that you're driving into the middle of nowhere (even if phone reception is non-existent.) Everything is so much prettier in the countryside, and the surroundings of The Fuzzy Duck are absolutely beautiful; even though it's a relatively new building with all the mod-cons, the surrounding buildings wouldn't look out of place in a Beatrix Potter book. You can tell that the pub is the hub of the small town, but with so many walks and places to explore there's a way to burn off that over-indulgent lunch. (Or you could just sit in the huge beer garden and take in the sunshine!) 

THE QUIRKY DETAILS   It's the little things that make all the difference, and country pubs tend to have more personality than most hotel stops thanks to the people behind them; you can tell there's love and passion in everything they do, and a real thought for their guests. At The Fuzzy Duck they have everything covered you could ever ask for: from wellies on loan if you want to wander the fields, to weather forecasts behind the bar and complementary sun cream in the garden to keep you safe, with even bespoke menus and locally sourced ingredients so you know you'll be eating fresh. With so many things to make you smile, you'll feel like you're experiencing a little bit of luxury without having to pay for it. THE COSY INTERIORS There's nothing better than a cosy country pub; whether it's on a chilly winter's day where all you want to do is warm your tootsies by the open fire, or during a sunny spell and you just want Pimms on tap for the whole afternoon, they've got you covered. What I loved about The Fuzzy Duck is the fact they mix the modern and new with the classic and old, sprinkling in everything from a bookshelf of country knowledge and a wine cellar with every type of tipple imaginable. There are blankets available for when you get a bit chilly too, meaning you don't even have to move from your spot when the sun goes down!

THE FOOD & DRINK Pub grub is my favourite; there's something so satisfying about properly made comfort food that's got more taste and texture than anything you'd get from a chain restaurant. Whether you want a small bite, a massive plate of fish and chips or a locally created special (I recommend the scotch egg!) there's something to tickle your tastebuds. And my favourite discovery: rhubarb gin mixed with elderflower tonic, topped off with a selection of berries. Incredible. Even the breakfast is fabulous, with options including the most delicious eggs I've ever eaten, a full English, fruit and granola, cereals, pastries, freshly baked bread and beautifully brewed coffee on tap too.

THE LUXURIOUS ACCOMMODATION  Although you won't be spending much time in your room when there's so much going on downstairs, the accommodation in this new wave of luxury pubs is anything but stingy. The space itself is quite small due to the limitations of such a compact location, but the features are quite extravagant and make you feel like you're in a five star hotel - not in the middle of the country. I adore the free-standing bath and vintage style decor, as well as the cosiest bed ever and more pillows than a girl could ever need. The only downside is there's no air con, but when you can open your window and listen to the sound of the great outdoors you can't really complain.   So if you're in need of a little summertime break, or simply want to get something in the diary to look forward to, why not consider a countryside getaway rather than faffing around with airport queues and transfers? It's affordable, flexible, easy to get to and offers so much more value for your buck.  Are you a fan of staycationing? Do you have any fave country pub hotels you think I should visit? Find out more about The Fuzzy Duck on their website: www.fuzzyduckarmscote.com Overnight stays in a double room start from around £120.00 (based on two sharing.) 

We were a guest of The Fuzzy Duck on this occasion, but we booked and paid for our first weekend their ourselves. (Yep, we liked it so much we went back!)

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Source: Why A British Country Pub Hotel Is The Best Staycation Destination This Summer

Wednesday, July 5, 2017

The city breaks in Europe that start from £61 per person INCLUDING flights

HANKERING after a cheap holiday but running low on annual leave and cash?

Then check out these weekend breaks to Europe – from just £61 per person INCLUDING flights.

Stay in the centre of Prague for less than £100 including flights

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Stay in the centre of Prague for less than £100 including flights

With the help of TravelSupermarket.com we've scoured the web for some of the best last minute bargains on the market, so you don't have to.

These holidays won't break the bank either, as every single one comes in under £100, including flights.

From a city break in Vilnius, Lithuania, for just £61 per person to a weekend at the beach in Majorca for just £93, there's no excuse not to treat yourself to a last minute summer holiday.

Or if you're taking the kids then why not head to Paris for £91 staying at the 3* Kyriad at Disneyland.

Get booking fast though, as these wildly popular deals get booked up fast.

Read on to discover ten incredibly affordable two night summer getaways, available to book on TravelSupermarket.com right now.

1. Vilinus, Lithuania from £61

The skyline of Vilinus filled with churches, museums and historical sites

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The skyline of Vilinus filled with churches, museums and historical sites

Eastern Europe is your best bet for a good value city break; the cost of living is much less than the UK – you can get a beer for the equivalent of £1 or less and a meal for under a tenner.

But, if you've walked over Charles Bridge in Prague and explored Buda Castle in Budapest; where next? How about Vilnius in Lithuania.

The country's capital has Europe's largest baroque old town at its heart with a skyline of 40 churches, cobbled alleys and traditional artists' workshops.

Stroll the cobbled streets of Vilnius this summer

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Stroll the cobbled streets of Vilnius this summer

It even has its own breakaway republic, Uzupis, a bohemian quarter with original street art and quirky pubs alongside modern cocktail bars and art galleries.

There are beautiful churches, parks, museums and historical sites to visit, including Gediminas' Tower.

Climb to this last remaining part of the city's castle and you'll be rewarded with incredible views of the town below and if you want to go in – it only costs a few euros more.

Or why not check out the view from Vilnius University's St. Johns' Church Bell Tower –  there's a glass lift, if you don't want to take the stairs – or visit the Gothic Cathedral, that Napoleon wanted to take back with him to Paris.

Flights from London Stansted on Sept 18 for two nights at the 3* Green Vilnius Hotel in the city centre start at just £61pp.

2. Sofia, Bulgaria from £67

Why not visit the Russian church Saint Nikolay Temple in Sofia

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Why not visit the Russian church Saint Nikolay Temple in Sofia

Bulgaria always comes up trumps for value. The average price of a three-course meal for two with wine in the country comes in at around £22.

Sofia, the capital, is vibrant day and night and an easy city to explore on foot.

There's loads of great street art plus lovely parks like the Borislova Gradina Park as well as incredible architecture like the Aleksander Nevski Cathedral and Sveta Sofia church after which the city takes its name.

Sofia is surrounded by mountains - perfect for outdoor enthusiasts

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Sofia is surrounded by mountains – perfect for outdoor enthusiasts

Alternatively, resorts in the mountains offer everything from hiking, mountain biking to kayaking and climbing.

Or why not do both; take a day trip to the Vitosha mountain range on bus 66 in less than an hour from Sofia, where you can walk, mountain bike and climb.

Three nights in the Bulgarian mountains at the 48 Persey Flora Apartments in Borovets for two departing September 30 from London is just 95pp. Two nights at the 3 star Scotty's Boutique, including breakfast, departing London Luton is just £67 per person

3. Berlin from £82

Berlin is Europe's capital of cool

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Berlin is Europe's capital of cool

Berlin might not have the mighty architecture to rival Paris or Prague but it makes up for it with street art, events and distinctive landmarks.

Book in advance online for a free tour of the Norman Foster dome at the top of the Reichstag for fantastic views over Berlin's parks and rooftops.

The view of the Central forum of the Sony Center with its glass ceiling in Berlin

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The view of the Central forum of the Sony Center with its glass ceiling in Berlin

Check out the Wall on one of the many walking tours.

Or take an easy day trip to Postdam and marvel at the Prussian Palaces.

There is always something new to see and do in Berlin.

Two nights at the Berlin City Messe departing Liverpool on September 17 starts from just £82pp or London Luton on September 18 or 19 for just £91pp.

4. Paris from £89

A magically cheap deal to a hotel near Disneyland

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A magically cheap deal to a hotel near Disneyland

Tourist numbers to Paris have dropped off in the past couple of years but TravelSupermarket data shows that Brits are being lured back by the great prices.

Once known as one of the most expensive places to visit and stay, who would have thought you could have got there for under a £100.

Paris comes alive in the summer and the good news is, it's now cheaper than ever

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Paris comes alive in the summer and the good news is, it's now cheaper than ever

With Parisians back from their summers away, the Paris cultural season begins from September onwards, with a stellar line-up of ballet, opera, dance and theatre events.

And who says Disneyland Paris is just for kids? Why not take a trip to see Mickey when the crowds and kid levels are lower.

Two nights at the 3* Kyriad at Disneyland Paris, departing Manchester on September 27 start from just £91pp or departing from London Southend, Luton or Gatwick from £89, £95 or £97pp.

5. Warsaw from £96

Great restaurants and history await in Warsaw

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Great restaurants and history await in Warsaw

Food might not be the first thing which comes to mind when you think of Warsaw but maybe it should be.

As well as museums and interesting neighbourhoods to explore, the capital city of Poland has a fantastic restaurant scene and you can eat food from all over the world at really good prices.

The cocktails are good too!

Relax among the bars and restaurants of Warsaw's old town

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Relax among the bars and restaurants of Warsaw's old town

Check out the Warsaw Castle and the Wilanow Palace, an Italian Baroque Villa just outside the city centre, which miraculously survived WWII pretty much unscathed.

The Warsaw Rising Museum traces the history of the city's heroic but doomed uprising against the German occupation in 1944 via three levels of interactive displays, photographs, film archives and personal accounts.

Two nights at the Warsaw Apartments Magnolie, departing London Stansted on September 4 start from just £96pp.

6. Prague from £89

The view of Charles Bridge spanning the river Vltava

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The view of Charles Bridge spanning the river Vltava in Prague

Prague is the most popular Eastern European city for tourists and it's not hard to see why.

Despite becoming a tourist mecca and up there in popularity with Rome and Amsterdam, it's still one of the cheapest European destinations.

The city of a thousand spires offers endless culture and history.

As for a beer, it will set you back about £1.15 for a pint, which will make you say 'Na Zdravi' (to your health!)

Prague has all the beauty of Paris but with beers for just £1

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Prague has all the beauty of Paris but with beers for just over £1

What's more, the improving exchange rate makes it a savvy choice.

Head to the 9th century Prague Castle and watch the guards changing on the hour – get there early to avoid the crowds.

The views from the summit of Petrin Hill are unmissable – walk up or take the funicular railway for about £1 if you want to save your feet.

Also, check out the Malá Strana district and the love lock bridge of padlocks, the 14th century Saint Vitus Cathedral and its stained glass windows and stroll across Charles Bridge.

Two nights at the 4* Iris Hotel Eden departing London Stansted on September 24 starts from just £89pp.

7. Malaga from £82

Malaga has a trendy new arts district

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Malaga has a trendy new arts district

Malaga is right next to the Costa Del Sol but a world apart.

Most tourists drive through it on the way to a holiday resort but the port city is well worth a weekend break in its own right.

The place is full of culture, with a wonderful Gothic cathedral, castle and the Picasso museum packed with 204 of his works of art.

The tranquil 3* Coso Viejo Hotel in Malaga

booking.com

The tranquil 3* Coso Viejo Hotel in Malaga

In fact, there are more than 30 museums in the city and a new arts quarter, The Soho district, is famous as Mecca for graffiti artists.

And of course, being on the coast means a delicious seafood and tasty tapas are all in abundant supply.

Two nights at the 3* Coso Viejo Hotel, departing London Luton on September 18 costs just £82pp.

8. PortAventura, Spain from £76

Ferrari Land theme park – a new part of PortAventura World, Spain

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Ferrari Land theme park – a new part of PortAventura World, Spain

Are you an adrenaline junkie and a beach lover?

With PortAventura World wedged between Salou and Tarragona on the Costa Dorada in Spain, you can get your seaside fix and rollercoaster rides all in one holiday.

In April, Europe's tallest rollercoaster opened in the Ferrari Land theme park which had just opened this year.

The town of Port Aventura on the north east coast of Spain

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The town of Port Aventura on the north east coast of Spain

Those brave enough to try the ride will experience a G force of 1.35, giving them a taste of what it is like to be in a Formula One car.

The new Ferrari land theme park also includes Formula One racing simulators and an interactive gallery looking at the history of Ferrari.

When you've had enough thrills, sandy beaches are just a stone's throw away.

Nearby Salou is also popular for windsurfing, sailing and golf and the coastal path, once used by fishermen, is now known for its sunrise and sunset views.

Two nights at Deigos in Cambrils, departing London Gatwick on September 18 from just £76pp or three nights with two travelling together from £91pp or Birmingham from £94pp  from £87pp and Glasgow Prestwick from £94pp.

9. Calella near Barcelona from £85

Night time by the coast in Calella, a small village near Barcelona in Spain

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Night time by the coast in Calella, a small village near Barcelona in Spain

You've heard of the Costa del Sol and the Costa Brava but the Costa Maresme is less well known but that doesn't mean it hasn't got a lot to offer.

In fact, Calella has two miles of golden sandy blue flag beaches with several bars and restaurants along the seafront and an old quarter with a lovely church and a pretty square which hosts festivals and markets throughout the year.

Parasailing, banana rides, windsurfing and boat trips (which cost extra) are all available from the watersports centre on the beach and there is also a giant inflatable pier with waterslides and trampolines just offshore.

Have a weekend at the 3* HTOP Olympic for under £100 including flights

Booking.com

Have a weekend at the 3* HTOP Olympic for under £100 including flights

A cycling track takes you along the coast and Nordic walking trails head up into the mountains of the nearby Montnegre National Park.

It's only an hour to Barcelona and the last train back to Calella is around 11pm so you could also spend a day trip there.

Three nights in Calella at the 3* HTOP Olympic based on two travelling together, departing Liverpool on September 24 or 25 starts from just £85pp or departing East Midlands starts from £89 each.

10. Cala Egos, Majorca for £89

Spend the weekend relaxing by the turquois waters at Cala Egos

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Spend the weekend relaxing by the turquois waters at Cala Egos

Cala Egos is a small beach resort sharing restaurants and bars with its larger neighbour Cala D'Or.

Cala Egos offers good sandy beaches and a marina with a pedestrianised main square with a good selection of restaurants and bars.

Hire a car and explore the lovely coves all over Majorca and stop and take in the catch of the day with lovely sea views.

Check out Drac Caves, a 30min drive away up the coast, and walk through beautiful underground chambers, theatrically lit in bright colours, and adorned with impressive stalactites and stalagmites.

The incredibly affordable Es Bolera Aparthotel Hotel in Cal

Expedia

The incredibly affordable Es Bolera Aparthotel Hotel in Cala Egos

Or visit Capdepera castle, another half hour further on from the caves, one of the best preserved Moorish fortresses on the Island; the views from the watchtower stretch over the town's rooftops to the wooded hills and coast beyond.

Two nights at the 3* Es Bolero Aparthotel in Cala Egos, departing London Stansted on September 18 starts from just £89 each or departing Liverpool starts from just £93 each.


Source: The city breaks in Europe that start from £61 per person INCLUDING flights

Tuesday, July 4, 2017

Europe Is Destination Of Choice For Expats and Refugees

European countries are facing a huge influx of expats and migrants, according to a new report.

The United states is the world's favourite destination, followed by Germany and UK.

Seven out of the top 10 expat destinations are in Europe – with Germany and the UK joined by France, Spain, Italy, the Netherlands and Switzerland.

Outside of Europe, Canada and Australia make up the top 10.

In Asia, Japan and South Korea rank 14 and 15.

New Zealand is 17 and Mexico, the only Central or South American country  in the listing takes the last place in the top 20.

Although refugees accounted for most of the migration, says the report International Migration Outlook 2017, from the Organisation of Economic Co-Operation and Development (OECD), a trend is growing for businesses within Europe to send employees to other European Union states on local contracts.

Cross-border workers

Some 1.5 million workers were sent across EU borders in 2015, the last year figures are available for.

International students also boosted the numbers, with a record more than 1.5 residence permits issued to expats in further education.

The EU was the destination for 1.6 million families in 2015, who represented 40% of the global flow of migrants.

"Improving the integration of immigrants and their children, including refugees, is vital to delivering a more prosperous, inclusive future for all," said OECD Secretary-General Angel Gurría.

"While integration is largely a domestic issue, better cooperation at the international level is key to make the progress required and address negative perceptions against migration, which are often rooted in a misconception of the benefit that migrants can bring to recipient countries."

Top destinations for expats and migrants Rank Country Inflows of foreigners (000) Inflow as share of population Foreign born population (000) 1 United States 1051 0.3 43290 2 Germany 686 0.9 11453 3 United Kingdom 379 0.6 8988 4 Canada 272 0.8 7287 5 France 256 0.4 7952 6 Australia 226 0.9 6711 7 Spain 195 0.4 6109 8 Italy 161 0.3 5907 9 Netherlands 147 0.9 2057 10 Switzerland 131 1.6 2416 11 Austria 103 1.2 1595 12 Sweden 103 1.1 1676 13 Belguim 102 0.9 1877 14 Japan 82 0.1 - 15 Korea 81 0.2 - 16 Denmark 67 1.2 541 17 New Zealand 55 1.2 1108 18 Norway 54 1 772 19 Ireland 36 0.8 789 20 Mexico 34 0 1007

Source: Organisation of Economic Co-Operation and Development (OECD)

Europe Is Destination Of Choice For Expats and Refugees

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Source: Europe Is Destination Of Choice For Expats and Refugees

Monday, July 3, 2017

Flying to fairytale destinations

Some people dream of travelling all over the world since being children.  I can't say I've ever got the serious travel bug, and I always say I've not been to many different countries. Although I have done New Zealand and New York, so along with a few European locations I've not done too badly for my travel experience.

But everyone has their own dream places they would love to visit.  That fairytale destination that they know would make them go wow.

Flying to fairytale destinations Jordan - Bubbablue and me

With a husband who doesn't take holidays (our last foreign holiday was 7 years ago to Portugal), travelling abroad alone with N feels like too much hard work.  But I certainly live through other people's gorgeous photos on Instagram, blogs and friends who've been to stunning places like Iceland for the Northern Lights and Canada for the Grand Canyon.

While there are places I'd love to experience – dancing in Cuba or Argentina would be high on my list, or Boston in the Fall – my fairytale destination would be Petra in Jordan.

Jordan and camel

I've recently spotted a blogger who'd been there on holiday, and it certainly looks achievable with children in tow.  I'd have to cope with the hot weather though.  For someone who's not travelled much it probably sounds like a strange place to want to visit.

I have family connections there.  My mum lived there as a girl for a few years, I can still remember the photos of her at her school desk in the small airbase schools with mixed classes of all ages.  But more than that, my Grandma started the first Brownie pack in Jordan.

monastary at Petra Jordan

But really when you see the beautiful landscapes, the historical and cultural buildings and structures, as well as the red of the desert, I'm sure most people would love to experience it.  Add to that the chance to float in the Dead Sea – how magical would that be?

sunset over the Dead Sea JordanYes, this is actually the sea not clouds

Where's your dream fairytale destination?  If you're stuck for ideas, Netflights has pulled together 11 beautiful destinations full of dream castles and beautiful lakes.

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Source: Flying to fairytale destinations

Sunday, July 2, 2017

The 8 cheapest self-catering holiday destinations for bargain-loving Bristolians

It's the height of summer and the school holidays are looming - so naturally, you might be thinking about spending a week or two in warmer climes.

The notoriously unreliable British weather means any trip to the seaside in the UK runs the real risk of being a washout, which isn't ideal if you're looking for ways to keep the kids busy all week long. But for many travellers, the restrictions and limitations imposed by an all-inclusive holiday just aren't very appealing.

Luckily for us, there are some beautiful parts of Europe where going self-catering doesn't have to cost an arm and a leg. According to new figures, grocery prices in many European countries have got cheaper - which is great news for any self-catering traveller.

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Post Office Travel Money and Monarch Holidays analysed eight of the most-popular European holiday resorts, such as Majorca and Turkey, where they found some real bargains on food and drink. Despite the current weakness of the pound, they found the cost of food and drink at supermarkets abroad is now lower for British tourists compared to five years ago.

Andrew Brown, of Post Office Travel Money, said: "Our advice is to do one big supermarket shop, choose cheaper local brands and buy fresh fruit and veg from local markets."

These are the eight cheapest European destinations for Brits looking for a self-catering break...

1. Limassol, Cyprus 2. Lanzarote, Spain Arrecife in Lanzarote Charco de San Gines boats in Canary Islands (Photo: TONO BALAGUER) 3. Dalaman, Turkey Haman Bay on the Dalaman Peninsula. 4. Menorca, Spain Cala den Porte in Menorca. (Photo: Spanish Tourist Office) 5. Costa Del Sol, Spain Fuengirola on the Costa del Sol. (Photo: Stefan Rousseau/PA Wire) 6. Majorca, Spain Palma's Cathedral, overlooking Mallorca harbour. 7. Algarve, Portugal Albufeira on the Algarve. (Photo: Grace Earl) 8. Costa Blanca, Spain Costa Blanca: Benidorm at night
Source: The 8 cheapest self-catering holiday destinations for bargain-loving Bristolians

Saturday, July 1, 2017

A visual guide to the impressive architecture of 10 European destinations

After attempting to sleep on my Brussels-bound bus, I woke up with crusty eyes and a little achy in Belgium. Plenty of things had me excited about this place, but little did I know what awaited me in La Grand Place, also known as De Grot Markt. A space surrounded by buildings dating back to 1402, the square is home to the impressive City Town Hall, the Guild Halls, and the Breadhouse, which hosts the Museum of the City of Brussels. As I ate waffles swimming in Nutella and basked in the beauty of the detail and trim on the buildings surrounding me, I glanced up from my breakfast and snapped the image above.


Source: A visual guide to the impressive architecture of 10 European destinations