Visit Sunny Florida

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. 

Why not pay a visit to Miami Metro Zoo where 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.   

You will find a large variety of restaurants along the seafront of Miami Beach from fine dining to laid back fast food. Whatever you fancy you are greeting by stunning sea views which is the perfect accompaniment to any meal. 

Image belongs to: Joseph Hurtado http://www.flickr.com/photos/trumpetca. Taken from: www.flickr.com

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 

Rhodes

Rhodes attracts many tourists as it’s a cosmopolitan place oozing class and sophistication. As if it needed a better introduction, it’s officially the sunniest place in Europe guaranteeing you a sun soaked holiday.

Activities

Rhodes offers a variety of activities for all ages. For the braver among you, there is bungee jumping, catamaran sailing, horse riding, rally carting and plenty of water – sports. Those who would like to come back with their hair can choose from bowling, mini golf, walking tours and much more.

Nightlife

Most of the nightlife on the Island is limited to the City of Rhodes, Faliraki and Lindos where the most famous and lively clubs Amazone, Loft and La Scala can be found. Varieties of different music are on offer meaning there’s something for everyone.

For something a bit different why not try Casino Rodos which has over 300 of the latest technology slot machines and 34 gaming tables.

Eating Out

Rhodes is a paradise for tasty food which you can enjoy in small tavernas or the most elegant restaurants. You will not be disappointed with the local cuisine but be warned that dinner doesn’t start until around 10pm. Restaurants tend to be more expensive than tavernas but offer a range of international dishes. Rhodes is famous for its delicious desserts which you won’t be able to refuse so make sure you leave room!

Where to Stay

If you’re looking for somewhere lively to stay in Rhodes, Faliraki is the place to stay. Situated close to a beach with lots to do and excellent night life it’s recommended for younger party – goers.

If you’re looking for a truly cultural experience, the Lindos area is one of the most interesting archaeological sites in the world which attracts thousands of visitors from all over the world. It has managed to maintain its old tradition and style and stay inexpensive at the same time. There is lots to do around Lindos and public transport is excellent.

Perfect for families is Genadi Village which has all the facilities you would expect from a modern holiday destination. By day there is plenty of sight – seeing to do and excursions to go on and at night local bars and clubs play contemporary music and show international sporting events.

Attractions

There is so much to see on the Island. The Castle of Rhodes houses the Archaeological Museum of Rhodes and the Temple of Apollo is a site that must be seen. Kamiros is a city that must be seen even if history doesn’t normally interest you. Even after nearly 3000 years you can still see the remains of the very rich and advanced civilisation that existed thousands of years ago.

Other Info

The best time to holiday in Rhodes is mid – summer as you’re almost guaranteed that it will always be warm and dry. However, prices can be high and the crowds overwhelming. If you travel any other time of the year you will avoid the crowds but hotels, restaurants and transportation are scarce and the weather is unpredictable.

Image belongs to: Christian Bachellier. 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

Funchal

Funchal is the capital of the Madeira Islands of Portugal and is also the largest city on all of the islands. This modern city attracts hundreds and thousands of visitors every year due to its uniqueness. The natural geological features form an “amphitheatre” surrounding the city, something you won’t find in many other places around the world. As well as this the city is said to have been named as such because of the abundance of fennel (funcho in Portuguese) that was growing there.

A holiday in Funchal is ideal because not only is it beautiful, but with such a wide range of things to see it takes a good few days to explore the vast natural heritage of the city. Santa Maria should particularly appeal to holiday – makers as it was one of the first areas of the islands to be inhabited and therefore presents an interesting architectural homogeneity. Since 1986 the Historical Nucleus of Santa Maria has been a classified zone and many restoration and reconstruction works have been done to it since then. You can now find a cable car station, the new green zone Almirante Reis, hotels, banks, underground car parks and more which you wouldn’t have been able to find some years ago. Due to the fact that Funchal has only recently started to modernise and because of the general economical and social conditions of the resident people, this area has never submitted to the pressure of large – scale reconstruction so has managed to maintain its old – fashioned charm.

The Cathedral Sé do Funchal was built in 1514 and was where the leading local and foreign traders settled their business. People who choose to holiday in Funchal will be amazed by the Cathedral’s fantastic architecture, incredible ceiling and the Bishop’s Throne. You can also visit the São Pedro parish which after the Sé is one of the most significant and populated parishes of Funchal. If these two sites aren’t enough for you while on holiday in Funchal then also pay a visit to the Fortleza de São Tiago which is a picturesque 17^th century fort now containing an interesting contemporary art museum.

One thing is for sure and that is you’re not going to be short of things to do whilst on holiday in Funchal regardless of what interests you. You can visit the Pico Fortress which was built in the early 1600s in response to pirate raids and has excellent views over Funchal and contains a small museum or you can visit the Old Town which is a charming district filled with bars and restaurants.

The sights you will see whilst on holiday in Funchal will be spectacular and there are several interesting ways of doing this. You can also walk from the Marina to Bela Sao Tíago Fort for a great view of Funchal town and its Bay or take a stroll through Parque Santa Caterina. If wildlife isn’t your thing then you can stop at the top of the park where you will find its famous Casino.

Funchal Marina also comes highly recommended as it is a lively waterfront with many cafés and restaurants. Here you can take a trip on the catamaran and go dolphin watching or just relax and soak up the atmosphere.

The city’s claim to fame is that the popular Manchester United football player Cristiano Ronaldo was born there. If you are looking for a break away from large groups of tourists and are more into sightseeing than clubbing all night long, then a holiday in Funchal is perfect for you.

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