Zante

Zante has two very different sides to it; the hustle and bustle of the busy club scene and the historical and cultural aspect which appeals to those with an ‘explorer’ extinct in them. Whichever category you are in, the beauty and tradition of the island is likely to capture the hearts of all those who visit Zante.

 Activities

 

Zante offers everything you would expect from one of the Greek islands – swimming, water – sports, bowling, tennis and much more. As well as this there are plenty of boat tours available from local tour operators.

Nightlife

 

Zante is a lively and energetic island offering a vast array of bars and clubs. Argasi and Laganas are the liveliest resorts which are more suitable for the younger crowd. Laganas is the centre of the clubbing scene with popular places including Pink Panther, Zeros and Cocktails and Dreams. As well as this there are dozens of bars and clubs along the Laganas strip providing a range of different music. This definitely is not the place to go if you want a good night’s sleep but you are guaranteed fun and excitement.

Eating Out

 

You will find a large assortment of restaurants in Zante. There are plenty of places to get traditional British food and the all important cooked breakfast the morning after the night before. If you fancy something a bit diverse, whichever resort you are at you will find traditional Greek restaurants along the seafront. This provides beautiful views as the sun goes down and in traditional Greek style the atmosphere is friendly and full of spirit. Customary music and dancing will be put on with guests encouraged to take part.

Where to Stay

 

If you are going to Zante to party then Argasi and Laganas are recommended as you will be right in the centre of everything. Laganas strip has many hotels which are close to shops, clubs, pubs, restaurants and the beach.

 

Some of the quieter family resorts are Alikanas, Kalamaki and Vassilikos. All of these resorts offer a variety of hotels, apartments and villas. Many of them offer facilities for children and provide activities to keep them busy in the day while parents relax by the pool.

Attractions

 

Famous for its turtles, a turtle boat trip is a must. These can be booked through local tour operators which normally have offices located along busy streets. The prices are reasonable and most companies guarantee you will see turtles or you get your money back.  You can also book boat trips to the Blue Caves which are famous for their stunning shade of blue seas and rock formations. Some tour operators let you jump off the boat and swim around the caves.

 

The most famous beach in Zante is Smugglers Cove. The crystal clear waters and white sand creates stunning scenery along this private and secluded beach. You can only access the beach by boat but it’s well worth the trip as you can explore the ship wreck that was washed up onto the shore over 20 years ago.

 

One of Zante’s best kept secrets is the island of Agios Sostis at the southern tip of Laganas Bay. It is accessible through a walkway which makes a pleasant walk to the island. There is a club on the island called Cameo Club. However, the real beauty is the surprise you have when you arrive on the island. A beautiful, secluded and quiet beach is complimented by a live DJ and bar providing all kinds of refreshments. It’s hard to believe you’re only minutes away from the madness of Laganas when you’re relaxing on this stunning and picturesque beach.

Image belongs to: Christian Bachellier. Taken from: www.flickr.com 

Turkey

Split into 7 different regions, each offering something different, Turkey has something for everyone. Whether its art, history, archaeology, nature or a relaxing beach holiday, you will not be disappointed with Turkey.

Activities

There is so much to do in Turkey you will never be bored. From cruises to treks and ballooning to kayaking you will have an action packed holiday. www.turkishadventure.net offers some brilliant packages from activity weeks to paragliding.

If you want a holiday where you can put your feet up or if you have children, there is also plenty to do. Beaches, swimming pools, golf courses, markets, sailing and boat cruises are all popular forms of entertainment. Of course there is also much, much more to do as well.

Nightlife

It is a common misconception that you wouldn’t dream of going to Turkey for its nightlife. However, the range of night – time entertainment is wide and varied from traditional male – dominated birahanes to techno and rave nightclubs. Cicek Pasaj in Beyoglu, Istanbul is likely to be the most lively and varied place for dancing through the night. The top discos have summer locations along the Bosphorus where you can enjoy beautiful views while partying well into the night.

As well as this, Kusadasi is famous for its Bar Street which is full of Irish and British pubs if you prefer somewhere a bit closer to home.

Eating Out

Turkey is ranked among the top 5 countries in the world for its fine cuisine. It’s easy to stick to British food whilst there but for a real taste of Turkey, be brave and venture into the less predictable restaurants. Be warned however that they have different ways of doing things. For example, they believe freshness is key so your food comes out as soon as it’s ready meaning you may get your starters and main meal at the same time. As well as this, it is considered an insult to serve guests piping hot food meaning that it probably won’t be as hot as you’re used to back home.

Where to Stay

Many think that the Aegean Coast is the most beautiful in the whole of Turkey. Home to some of Turkey’s leading beach resorts and with so much history surrounding it, there’s something for everyone in the Aegean Region. This area is full of life with shopping centres, markets, beaches, restaurants and sight – seeing making it perfect for everyone regardless of what kind of holiday you’re after. The South Aegean is particularly popular amongst British tourists.

Those of you who have cash to splash will fall in love with the Turkish Riviera. With long, sandy beaches, world – class golf courses and the highest concentration of 5 – star hotels in the country, you’re going to be surrounded in pure luxury.  There are historic sites such as Arikand and coastal towns aplenty meaning there’s something to suit all tastes.

Attractions

Make sure you visit Ephesus where you can find the Temple of Artemis, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. The city is incredibly well – preserved and you can visit the statues, libraries, theatres, markets and temples.

Mount Ararat is truly spectacular with its peak souring over 5165 metres. Its history is fascinating and while there you can also visit Ishak Pasa palace which contains a mosque and a separate men’s and women’s quarters.

To the southwest of Konya is Beysehir Lake which has been described as an undiscovered paradise. Here you will find the summer home of the Selcuk rulers, a castle, mosque and tomb so there is plenty to keep you entertained.

Image belongs to: Felipe Barrientos. Taken from: www.flickr.com

Skiathos

Skiathos is one of the Greek Islands which is covered in thick pine forest and is considered to be a protected environment. It’s very popular, especially around July and August when it’s very hot and there’s lots to do.

Activities

The waters around Skiathos are a paradise for sailors, making it a popular activity with locals and tourists. Motorboats can be hired to go visit and explore neighbouring islands which provides a unique and interesting day out. As well as this the usual water sports and sporting activities are available.

Nightlife

Skiathos town is an international, energetic place with enough bars, pubs and clubs to keep everyone happy. You will find traditional British pubs filled with English holiday makers but also traditional Greek bars and classy jazz and blues clubs.

Most of the bars and clubs are located in Papadiamantis. Bar Street is full of British tourists and residents whilst Stones and the Apothiki Music Hall play traditional Greek music so are more likely to be filled with locals.

Eating Out

Eating out in Skiathos is more expensive than it is on some of the less developed Greek islands and it’s harder to find traditional food as it’s so full of tourists. There are a few places you can get typical Greek food, such as in Psaradika where all the locals go.

If it’s not local food you’re after then it’s easy to find restaurants and cafes around the towns and villages.

Where to Stay

Hotels are graded from A down to E with A -class hotels providing top of the range facilities and E – class only offering the most basic accommodation. There are around 350 campsites around Skiathos which means those of you on a budget won’t struggle for somewhere to stay.

If you’re looking for something different and adventurous, mountain refuges are located in stunning settings such as Evia. Self – catering apartments are becoming increasingly popular as the number of youngsters booking package holidays increases. These apartments normally have swimming pools, sporting facilities and other activities on offer.

Attractions

Skotini is very impressive with a small opening into a 20 – foot cave with many sandy coves to explore. It is recommended you get a boat to do this so you can spend a couple hours exploring at your own pace.

Skiathos is known for its beautiful beaches and this is one of the many reasons people go there. The most famous is Koukounaries which is a horse – shoe shaped bay on the southern tip of the island.

If you want to see the island’s hidden secrets and find out about its history and culture, you can take a guided walk to the Kounistra Monastery or the Evangelistra Monastery, or a guided tour of the island that is a mix of walks and travel on a mini-bus travel.

Image belongs to: Carla Saliba. Taken from: www.flickr.com

Miami, Florida

Florida has long been a popular holiday destination with tourists from all over the world. If you are looking for a USA holiday that is going to leave you wanting more, then a visit to Miami, Florida is called for. Probably due to its mild climate all year round and endless access to the ocean, Miami was ranked the nation’s number one Healthiest City by a magazine in 2002.

 

With some of the world’s top sporting facilities, sparkling waters and top attractions, Miami attracts thousands of visitors every year from all over the globe. Apart from the most obvious tourist spot, Disney World, Florida has so much to offer. If theme parks aren’t your thing then a USA holiday in Miami will suit you perfectly but if you do want to try out a few scary rides you’re still close enough to go spend a day there.

 

A visit to Miami Metro Zoo comes highly recommended as you will be able to see hyenas, tigers, lions, leopards, bears, camels, giraffes, zebras, elephants, rhinos, gorillas, kangaroos, crocodiles and much more. There are also playgrounds and water play areas as well as wildlife shows, animal talks, animal meet and greet sessions and other activities.

 

For true nature lovers the Everglades National Park is an absolute must when on any USA holiday. It is the largest subtropical wilderness in the US boasting rare and endangered species such as the American crocodile and the Florida panther. You can go on boat tours of the park or camp there if you would prefer to make a few days of it.

 

The Venetian Pool which was originally a rock quarry is a popular spot for those wishing to relax while on their USA holiday. Situated in a residential area of Coral Gables it was used as a source of coral rock for construction during the early years of Coral Gables until it was turned into a public pool. The pool is surrounded by several Spanish style buildings, a garden patio and a grotto which means there is plenty around to keep you busy for the day.

 

Being surrounded by so much water it is inevitable that water sports are a very popular activity when in Miami. You can participate in windsurfing, kite surfing, scuba diving, sailing, surfing, kayaking and pretty much any other water sports you can think of while on your USA holiday. It is impossible not to venture out to the beach at some point during your holiday in Florida because with such beautiful settings it’s impossible to resist. Whatever your interests are you are certain to find something to suit your tastes while on a USA holiday in Miami.

Image belongs to: Rachel Pearce. Taken from: www.flickr.com

Malta

Consisting of seven islands in the middle of the Mediterranean, its tropical climate and abundance of things to do means Malta is a popular holiday destination. The combination of interesting history and modern culture makes it an intriguing place to visit.

Activities

The usual holiday activities are available at all resorts as well as a few less traditional ways to keep busy. Rock climbing and open water and cave diving are amongst the most popular. As you are almost guaranteed sunshine in the summer months swimming and the beach are always options.

Nightlife

There is so much to do at night – time in Malta. Classic and modern theatres are usually held outdoors or in historic venues which helps create a romantic atmosphere for all.

Although not known for clubbing, it is fast becoming the next up – and – coming place. Top international DJs are staring to appear at Paceville and St. Julian’s which are the busiest and most popular places for clubbing.

Something for everyone to enjoy are the summer fiestas. With fireworks, food and plenty of entertainment it’s likely to be one of the highlights of your holiday in Malta.

Eating Out

The combination between the native islanders and the many visitors who have made Malta their home means that Maltese cuisine has become an eclectic mix of Mediterranean cooking. Traditionally it is similar to Italian food, however, roasts are becoming increasingly popular even amongst local residents.

Da Pippo Trattoria is a favourite among locals and serves a variety of Maltese and Sicilian dishes. For the ultimate in fine dining, you will not be disappointed with TaFrenc Restaurant in Gozo which is set in an old farmhouse. Most cafes are open all day to serve light snacks, coffee and wine.

Where to Stay

Marsascala is a popular family resort with rocky coves and sandy beaches. There are activities, restaurants and shops to entertain parents and children.

Naxxar is full of historical and cultural interest and has played a role in major events in Malta’s history. There are a variety of good hotels available at decent prices.

St. Julian’s is most likely to appeal to those who like it a bit more lively and are there for the nightlife more than anything else.

Attractions

The Place of Giants in Xaghra dates from about 3600 BC and boasts the most enchanting village square in the country. It is one of the top rated attractions in Malta so is definitely worth a visit.

If you want to be impressed by some of the best and beautiful natural harbours in the world, take a trip to Valletta, which is also the capital. There is lots to do but there are also other attractions nearby if you want to move on.

Other Info

There are open – air markets open once a week in most towns and villages so keep an eye out locally for when these are on as you can often find good bargains there.

Malta has been endorsed by the US State Department as one of the safest holiday destinations in the world.

Image belongs to: Gert Van Duinen. Taken from: www.flickr.com