Travel trips

There really is something for everyone in Amsterdam.

Criss-crossed by canals, the Dutch capital is sometimes referred to as the Venice of the North.The centre of the city is a relatively contained area meaning that most people are happy to get about on foot, although be prepared for the cold in winter months.The other way of getting around is by bicycle. Famously, the city was among the first in the world to adopt cycle friendly traffic measures.

Most people choosing to take their vacations in Amsterdam start with the bustling heart of the city, the Old Centre. Historic buildings, sophisticated shopping and the famous Red Light area, which really comes to life at night, give this area a unique flavour.Although Amsterdam has a reputation for being tolerant, many visitors come here to take advantage of the abundant culture with numerous art galleries to choose from.

The most exclusive area of the city is probably around the Canal Ring which was built in the 1700’s to try and attract the city’s wealthiest merchants. Today it still has some of the most expensive homes. In 2010 the area was granted World Heritage Status by Unesco to reflect it’s historic importance.

The next most famous part of the capital, arguably, is the Jordaan area. Once home to the working classes this area has really benefited from the development of cafe culture and gone upmarket with trendy restaurants and nightspots.It is worth remembering that no one visits Amsterdam for the weather alone. While the summers can be lovely it is worth having an umbrella to hand at other times of the year.

In the event that you do get caught in the rain, never fear. There is still a lot to do and see. Essential visits include a tour of the fascinating Heineken Experience; a tour of the inspiring and historic Anne Frank House and a stroll past the old masters on display at the Van Gogh Museum. As we said, there is something for absolutely everyone.

For more about vacationsinAmsterdam visit HolidayCheck.com.

Tags: Amsterdam Vacation, Visit Amsterdam

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If you are going on a short trip, you probably will not need to make money during that period. However, if you are considering an extended trip, such as backpacking around the world for several months (or even years), then you will certainly welcome ideas that will help you make money as you go along. You are very fortunate if you have enough cash to last you your entire trip and maybe even have some left over. There are also those who have the luxury of being able to work remotely, hence financing their trip as they go along.

For most people, though, the idea of being on the road for months on end and making money as they go along is the best way to go about things. Here are some ways you can make money as you travel and discover the world.

Teach English

If you are a native English speaker, you are in luck for you will be among the most desired English teachers in the world. If you are not a native speaker but you are “almost” one, do not despair, there will also be opportunities for you. The best thing to do is to plan this out. This option is particularly ace for those who are headed to Asian countries such as Japan, Korea, and China. There are many schools which hire short-term English teachers for good pay. And you do not necessarily have to work full time!

Volunteer

There are many organizations which offer compensation for “volunteer” work. In a sense, it is not truly volunteering as you get something in return, but it can help you add to your traveling money. Some organizations may not give you monetary compensation, but you will at least get food and a place to stay for a while. That should be a great way to save money for your other destinations.

Find an online gig

If you can write decently or you know something about doing online work, then you have a good chance of making money while on the go. All you need is an Internet connection, which you can find practically anywhere in the world today. Look at web sites that hire freelance writers, and you will even find travel writing jobs which will suit your lifestyle.

Work in a hostel

The chances are you will be staying in at least one hostel, and why not? They’re cheap. They provide decent accommodation. They’re fun, and you get to meet other travelers as well! Here’s another reason to stay in one: you might score a temporary job. Don’t be shy. Just ask around and see if they have something that you can do in exchange for a free bed. Now isn’t that a great way of saving (and, in a sense, making) money? You don’t have to be loaded to travel all you want. A little creativity and effort will get you a long way.

Cheryl Grise would travel every single day if she had the money to do so. She does know her way around making sure she has enough to finance her travels, and she shares her experiences with fellow travelers. One piece of advice from Cheryl: submit your blog to a blog directory to gain a wider reach.

Tags: making money, tips, traveling

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You don’t have to travel to the red centre of Australia to experience the magic of the Australian outback. Outback NSW offers an experience that is second to none. What’s better, the outback in New South Wales is accessible to everyone and has all the amenities you need to ensure you have a safe, comfortable stay.

When an Australian is asked where a remote city or village is located, the usual reply is, " Out the back of Bourke." This leaves most visitors from overseas confused, but Australians understand that it means, "farther than you want to go."In its early history, Bourke was a stockade. Later, thanks to its location on the banks of the Darling River, it became the most remote trading centre in NSW. When it was first discovered by explorer Charles Sturt, he declared the land around Bourke uninhabitable because at the time, a drought had caused the Darling to dry up.

Today, Bourke is no longer "a long way from anyplace else." The Darling River Run, one of Australia’s classic drives, takes you even further into outback NSW, to Valgett. Just an hour’s drive west of Valgett is the iconic Australian outback town of Lightning Ridge. Lightning Ridge became part of Australia’s history and folklore when Black Opals were discovered there and miners came seeking their fortune. Today, it is a fascinating and totally unique town most well-known for its eccentricities.

If there is one town in outback NSW you simply have to see, it is Broken Hill. Legend has it that Broken hill got its name from a journal entry by Charles Sturt, who wrote, "Silver ore was later discovered on this broken hill." Sometimes called Silver City because of its rich silver deposits, Broken Hill is also sometimes called the capital of the NSW outback. It is a wonderful city, with great historical buildings, all the comforts you could want and some of the most spectacular desert scenery you will ever see. The landscape around Broken Hill is so magnificent, in fact, that it is known as much for its artist colony as it is known for its iconic history.

For an unforgettable outback NSW experience, stay a night in White Cliffs. Located just a few hours drive from Broken Hill, White Cliffs is home to Australia’s oldest opal fields. Don’t be surprised if you don’t see anything when you get there. With a few un-notable exceptions, all of White Cliffs attractions and amenities are located underground.

There is no doubt that you will be captivated by the wide open expanse of outback NSW, but after awhile, it will make you long for greener pastures. These you will find in abundance in Wentworth. Also known by its longer title of Wentworth Murray Darling, Wentworth is located along the banks of the Darling and Murray Rivers.

For most travellers on the Darling River Run, Wentworth is their first and last stop before returning to "civilisation." Some become so enamoured of the outback, they stay on in the ‘back of beyond’ and leave the world behind. If you want to experience that enchantment in comfort, don’t worry, there are plenty of Broken Hill accommodation and out Outback accommodation options to choose from as you make your way out "the back of Bourke."

Tags: Bourke, Broken Hill, Outback

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Somerset is a great place to visit for a holiday as there is so much to see and do. The county features seaside resorts, bustling towns and cities and beautiful countryside which are all home to many attractions. Find out more about some of the top places to visit along with the sights and attractions within this region of the South West of England to ensure your holiday is something to truly remember.

Experience the Wonder of Cheddar Gorge

When on holiday in Somerset a visit to the spectacular Cheddar Gorge is a must and you will be left breathless at the sight of the magnificent cliffs which rise to a height of four hundred and fifty feet above the road. This world famous beauty spot is a National Nature Reserve and is an international centre for caving and climbing. If you are feeling particularly adventurous you can take a beginners course in caving and climbing where you will delve deep in to and above the Mendip Hills. This is not for the faint hearted as you will be crawling through tight spaces and hanging off rock faces up to sixty feet above ground. You could of course visit Cox’s and Gough’s caves which are more family orientated. Inside these splendid caverns you will see underground pools, waterfalls and an impressive display of stalactites.

Explore the Quantock Hills Walking or Biking

Whilst you are in this region a visit to the Quantock Hills can be recommended. This wonderful range of hills is situated west of the market town of Bridgwater and is England’s first designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This is an area made up of heath land, oak woodlands and ancient parklands. It is a great place for walking, cycling and horse riding. The Coleridge Way is a thirty six miles long path that starts at Nether Stowey and ends at Porlock. You need not complete the whole of the walk as you can easily do a short section of it. From the top of the hills, on a clear day, you get magnificent views of Glastonbury Tor, the Mendips and you can see right in to Wales.

Marvel at the Ancient Roman Baths in the City of Bath

If you are a lover of history then the Roman Baths in the city of Bath will be of great interest to you. The baths themselves are housed in the stunning nineteenth century bath house and whilst you can view the steaming waters, you are not allowed to bathe in them. Also on the site is a museum which features many artefacts from the Roman Era. There are lots of coins and the bronze head of the goddess Sulis Minerva is particularly impressive. Other places to see here are the Sacred Spring and the Roman Temple. Many of the coins in the museum were found in the Sacred Spring. Here water rises at a temperature of forty five degrees Celsius and had been doing so for thousands of years.

Relax and Enjoy the Seaside Sights and Attractions

For something more family orientated the SeaQuarium at Weston-Super-Mare provides fun for a whole day. Once you purchase a ticket you can come and go all day so you can come and view the creatures and go and play on the beach, then come back later and see some more fantastic sea life. Here you can walk under waves and see sharks, sea horses, rays and all sorts of weird and wonderful sea creatures. After you have finished exploring the sights you can settle back and enjoy a relaxing afternoon on the sandy beaches as the sun beats down.

In Summary

Somerset is a county which is full of great tourist attractions and there is something for the whole family here. Whether you want to relax and enjoy a seaside break or you want to be out and about visiting the sights or breathing in the fresh country air, you can. Ancient history, modern family attractions and some fun kids’ activities help to make this a coastal county you can visit throughout the year.

This is a guest post by Chris for Holidayparkhols that have log cabin holidays in Somerset. If you fancy a self catering holiday, break or weekend then how about one of the log cabin holidays for a cost effective accommodation option?

Tags: log cabin holidays, log cabin holidays in Somerset, Quantock Hills Walking or Biking

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If you’ve ever watched the Tour de France and felt inspired, or just wanted to try a holiday that offers something different, you might consider a cycling tour in Europe. The continent offers truly varied terrain: everything from the car-free dirt tracks in south England to the extreme twists and turns of rides through the French Alps.

Why a Cycling Tour?

Cycling is hugely popular in Europe, and growing fast. Some visitors to the continent choose to travel exclusively by bike, which is made possible by the thousands of miles of cycling paths through the incredibly diverse scenery.

Cycle tours are very cheap – perhaps the best way to see Europe on a shoestring budget. All you need is a bike, a series of camping grounds or hostels, and access to affordable food at markets and local stores. You’ll save money – and what’s more, it’s great for your health, so you’ll return from your holiday fitter than ever before.

Cycling tours also enable you to glimpse a quieter side of the continent that is often missed by travellers who opt for package holidays in city or beach destinations. While slower than other forms of transport, it’s also a more leisurely way to get around.

For Beginners

For the novice cyclist, or anyone who wants to build up their road confidence, the UK is a great place to start your cycling tour. The Yorkshire Dales are quiet and largely traffic-tree for most of the year, and offer beautiful dramatic views of the rugged landscape.

The Luck of the Irish

Ireland has a well-established cycling heritage, thanks to Seamus “Shay” Elliot in the 1950s and prominent figures such as Sean Kelly in the years that followed. The locals in the Republic of Ireland, particularly on the roads joining Cork and Galway, are friendly to cyclists, and this is the place to take advantage of the Guinness and some beautiful but challenging terrain. Further afield, the Peninsulas of Iveragh and Beara offer some stunning scenery, far from the tourist-heavy regions.

Who Could Resist the French Alps?

If the Tour de France is an inspiration, your cycling tour is incomplete without tackling the French Alps. Names such as the Alpe d’Huez and Col d’Izoard are famous amongst fans of this iconic race – the Alpe d’Huez boasts more than 250km of marked trails for you to tackle, from the tame to the death-defying, there’s something for every ability.

There are plenty of affordable cycling holidays to be found in the French Alps, offering comfortable half-board accommodation and plenty of route choice.

Getaway Trekking & Adventures offers a range of Kokoda trail tours through Papua New Guinea.

Tags: Cycling Tour Europe, Europe Cycling Tour

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If you love history and architecture, but like it mixed with a vital, modern atmosphere, you will love Fremantle. The first settlers arrived in Fremantle in 1829, even before Perth, but did not officially become a city until a century later, in 1929. Getting to Freemantle from Perth is easy: it’s only 12 miles (19km) or a 20 minute drive away or a leisurely cruise down the Swan River.

For a city of its size, Fremantle has a remarkably cosmopolitan atmosphere. Over a third of its 25,000 residents were born outside of Australia. Next to England, the majority of Fremantle’s overseas born residents come from Italy and Italian is widely spoken in the town. While a large portion of the city’s population was born elsewhere, there is a strong sense of community in the city that is reflected in its stunningly preserved historical buildings, its wide, clean streets and frequent public gatherings.

Even if you think you’re not interested in 19th century architecture, you will become so when you go to Fremantle. The architecture is so well preserved, the buildings don’t look old and you become entranced by the fascinating structures. The old Round House prison, for example, dates back to 1831 and  is the oldest still intact building in WA. As its name implies, it is a circular structure, designed to open inwards to a central courtyard where the inmates would exercise under supervision.

Far more grand and imposing looking is the Victorian Gothic Fremantle Arts Centre. The Arts Centre was not originally built as a cultural centre. When convict labor was used to construct this building in the 1860s, its official purpose was to serve as a "lunatic asylum". Today, it houses art exhibits and is Fremantle’s main venue for music concerts.

Whether you’re an architecture buff or not, you will definitely want to pay a visit to the Fremantle Markets. Unlike many other 19th century buildings in Fremantle, these market stalls have an unbroken history. While the arts and crafts that you will find in the markets may have changed in style and the wonderful dishes on offer may not be the same as they were in 1897, the Fremantle Markets are still the place residents of "Freo", as the city is affectionately called by the locals, go to buy their fish and produce.

These are just a few of the historical sites in Fremantle. The city of Fremantle is filled with history, from its dockworker’s cottages to its warehouses and even entire city streets. High Street combines the best of the 19th century with the best of the 21st. As you stroll down this immaculately preserved street, you’ll find numerous contemporary art galleries, some of which showcase marvelous aboriginal works. When it’s time to relax, you will do so in style at an alfresco Italian cafe. You will love "hanging out" at a High Street outdoor cafe, watching the world go by as you enjoy an Italian pasta or pastry and a perfectly made cappuccino.

You won’t have any trouble at all finding a comfortable Fremantle accommodation to stay in. There is everything from comfortable backpackers accommodations to luxuriously appointed Victorian era B&Bs to choose from – and everything in between. Stay at the beach, by the harbour or in the heart of Fremantle: the choice is yours.

Tags: Fremantle, Perth

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Jetting off for a sun-soaked break in Europe is something that many people enjoy each year. While there are many wonderful stretches of sand, you may be keen to visit a destination that offers something extra – so here are five of the best European beaches.

When you think of sun-kissed sands, Spain is bound to be one of the first nations that springs to mind.

On holidays to Spain, you can enjoy a favourable climate all year round, as well as a host of cultural, historical and natural attractions. With so many stretches of sand to choose from, it may be difficult to know exactly where to place your towel.

Playa el Canuelo, Spain

If you are heading to the Costa del Sol, Playa el Canuelo stands out from the crowd.

This cove is located in the Los Acantilados de Maro national park and it truly is a gem. The entire coastline in this part the region is relatively untouched thanks to its protected status, so you can look forward to spending your days in beautiful natural surroundings.

Although not a golden sandy beach, Playa el Canuelo holds many attractions. Its waters are especially clear and if you fancy going for a dip, be sure to take snorkelling equipment so you can view some of the abundant marine life.

Sotavento Beach, Fuerteventura, Spain

Another Spanish destination renowned for its beaches is Fuerteventura in the Canary Islands. Here, you will discover soft golden sand leading to azure blue water.

In fact, if you are hoping to have a more active break, this could be the place to go as Sotavento beach is known the world over as one of the best spots for windsurfing due to the brisk breezes that are usually present on the coast.

Sotavento is actually just one part of a 17 mile stretch of sand, giving you all the space you could want to relax by the seaside

Mortelle Beach, Italy.

If you book Italy holidays, meanwhile, you may want to travel to Sicily, where you can seek out some stunning sections of coastline. The north-east of the island is considered to be home to some of the most picturesque bays and Mortelle beach is one of the best, especially for families.

Boasting sloping sands that are lapped by a relatively calm sea, this is the ideal place for little ones to splash around and enjoy their break in the sun.

Versilla, Italy

Back on the Italian mainland, you may decide that a trip to Tuscany is just what you are looking for. This region of the country is renowned for its cultural and historic attractions, as well as its vineyards, but the coast should not be neglected either.

If you want to spend a day away from the bustling cities, why not head to Versilia? This stretch of the seaside in Tuscany’s north comprises of a very long sandy strip, which is popular with locals and holidaymakers alike.

There are plenty of amenities at the beach, including umbrellas, deckchairs, showers and changing rooms, so it could be great for a hassle-free daytrip.

Lara Bay, Cyprus

Finally, you should consider Cypriot holidays if you are going in search of some of Europe’s best beaches.

Although the island is home to many beautiful inlets and coves, Lara Bay in the Akamas Peninsula really stands out.

This horseshoe-shaped beach is made up of golden sands and is a must-visit location for nature lovers, as it is one of the only nesting grounds in the Mediterranean for the green turtle.

Tags: beaches

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When on holiday, eating healthy can be a challenge. Long road trips leave you vulnerable to indulging in junk food, including sugary soft drinks, sweet biscuits, crackers, and chips. Nutritionally poor, ready-made snack items such as these can add unwanted kilos to your frame and leave you feeling fatigued and irritable.

Planning Ahead
With a little planning and preparation, however, you can maintain a healthy diet by bringing your own snacks with you. This may include packing a cooler with fresh cut fruits and vegetables. Chopping up celery and carrot sticks can be teamed up with a small container of salsa or non-fat yogurt for a tasty, healthy, easy and cost effective option. Also consider swapping potato chips for a healthier alternative such as whole-grain or rice crackers.

Choose a healthy breakfast option
Many hotels offer high carbohydrate breakfast items such as pastries, doughnuts, muffins, bagels, and pancakes. While these foods offer a short-lived energy boost, it can lead to eventual fatigue and sleepiness. By choosing foods that are rich in fibre you remain full longer, reduce the number of calories that you ingest, and don’t have to suffer the sudden energy crash that can follow a high carbohydrate meal. Foods that are rich in fibre include oatmeal and fresh fruits, which are available at most hotels serving breakfast.

Look for alternatives to the norm
Avoid fast food restaurants when dining out, as they generally have menu items that are high in saturated fats. When you find yourself in a fast food establishment, you may still be able to find salads that offer low-calorie alternatives to the usual menu. Many fast food chains also offer fruit and yogurts, which are low-calorie and rich in calcium. You may also have the option of substituting sugary soft drinks with water at most fast food places.

Sharing is caring
When dining in traditional restaurants, consider splitting a meal with someone. This cuts both cost and calories. Portion sizes of the main meal at many restaurants can contain over one thousand calories. You also have the option of choosing a soup and salad as your entree, skipping the more calorie dense menu items.

When ordering from a selection of mains, choose items that are baked instead of fried. Also, look for items that come with a vegetable side dish, such as asparagus or broccoli. Avoid pasta items, which are high in refined carbohydrates and nutritionally poor.

Eating healthy while travelling takes conscious effort and planning, but following these simple guidelines can help you stay fit, have more energy, and get the most out of your holiday.

Getaway Trekking & Adventures offers a range of Kokoda Track adventures.

Tags: Healthy Holiday, Holiday Planning

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When you set eyes on it today, it’s difficult to believe that only a century ago there was nothing where Surfers Paradise now stands. In 1917, an attempt was made to subdivide the land into a "Surfers’ Paradise Estate", but nobody bought because getting there was too difficult. The name, stuck, though and after James Cavill opened the Surfers Paradise Hotel in 1925, it began to pique the interest of developers and tourists.

The boom in Surfers Paradise began in the 1950s, when the first highrise apartments began to go up. Growth continued at a frantic pace right through the sixties and by the seventies, "Surfers", as everyone calls it now, was one of Australia’s hottest pieces of real estate. The "gold" in the Gold Coast today is its real estate and tourism, which is responsible for the economic vitality of the entire region.

What is the appeal of Surfers Paradise? Back when it acquired its name, the waves that rolled in along its long, white beaches were ideal for surfers, but today’s surfers look a little further south for the perfect wave. The beach was the original attraction, but today, it is all the manmade attractions that act like magnets for the millions who come to Surfers every year.

If you’re looking for a vibrant nightlife, then look no further than Surfers Paradise. Every night is party night in the many clubs, discos and bars in town. If it’s entertainment, you’re after, there is always a show to see, whatever your tastes may be. Go to Jupiters Casino or one of the other big clubs in the area for world famous entertainers or call in at a local pub and listen to the local talent play. If it’s shopping you want to do, then shop till you drop on Cavill Avenue or in one of the mega malls nearby.

You could also call Surfers Paradise a "Family Paradise." Between Dreamworld, Warner Brothers Movie World and Sea World, it is like theme park heaven. While these are the largest theme parks in the area and a share of visitors choose to call the hotels and resorts within and around the parks home for the duration of their stay, many other families choose Surfers as their base camp and visit a different theme park every day.

It’s not just the big theme parks that make Surfers Paradise a Family Paradise, though. There are dozens of other family attractions to choose from. For a change of pace, you can try Currumbin Sanctuary. This world renowned wildlife sanctuary in the heart of the Gold Coast contains the largest collection of native Australian wildlife anywhere in the world. If that taste of nature appeals to you, then you can escape to the Gold Coast hinterland and in no time at all you will be in a natural paradise, far from the hustle and bustle of central Surfers.

James Cavill was the first to open a Surfers Paradise accommodation, but he certainly wasn’t the last. Whether you’re looking for a cozy boutique hotel or a 5 star resort, you will find what you want, at a price you can afford.

Tags: Gold Coast, Queensland, Surfers Paradise

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So you’re looking to explore the Old Continent? Whether you’re flying in from overseas or you’re already in a European country, you probably realize there is a vast offering of cultures and countries waiting to be explored, here. With such diversity, it naturally follows there are all kinds of destinations available for all traveling budget ranges. And if you’re looking for inexpensive holiday ideas, this article will help! You will now learn about the most exciting low cost destinations in Europe, so if insufficient funds used to be your excuse for not travelling much… no more of that! If you make sure to look for low cost flightsto these countries, you can rest assured the total cost of your journey will be as comfortable as your stay!

Malta: a Haven of Mediterranean Sun

This quiet little island in the heart of the Mediterranean has a lovely climate, charming landscapes and the perfect setting for scuba diving. In the past few years it has grown increasingly popular as a travel haven for younger folks. Even though the native language is Maltese, almost everyone here can speak English… which is nice if you’re averse to language barriers.

Slovakia: Land of Castles and Hot Springs

If you enjoy classical architecture, you will love it in Slovakia – the world’s country with highest number of castles per capita. Asides from exploring such landmarks, you may also want to partake in thermal hot springs soaking, which is an unofficial national hobby. And if you just want to commune with nature, you will be happy to know there are no less than nine national parks in this country!
Moldava: a Paradise for Foodies

For anyone looking to experience gourmet food at lower cost than what fast food is sold for in the metropolitan countries, Moldava is where it’s at. This quiet and peaceful little country next to Romania is also known for its fine wines, which according to many are among the best in the world. And since this region is not exactly a major touristic hub, you will be consistently impressed with how inexpensive everything is.

Estonia: a Gem in the Baltic Region

Once a Soviet-occupied country, Estonia is now best regarded as a museum for what the Soviet era looked like, including some military bases that once used to be strategic in location. This cozy country also features some of the best preserved examples of medieval villages, as well as a panoply of small but outstanding beaches. Locals are extremely polite and friendly, and the atmosphere is lighthearted and warm.

Portugal: the Country Facing the Sea

Portugal is one of the oldest countries in Europe, and features a diversely rich offering in terms of monuments and historical landmarks. There are also plenty of great beaches here, as well as outstanding natural reserves. From the traveler’s standpoint this country is notable because it combines many interesting qualities (geographical and cultural) available throughout most European countries. This guest post was brought to you by the low cost airline guide; you’re welcome to use our free search engine, when planning your next trip to Europe!

Tags: Low cost european holidays, Visit Maldova, Visit Malta

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