133 Make Your Money Go Further in London
London is the coolest city on earth, according to a big crowd of fans of the city, and there is quite some truth in that. The city on the Thames has an amazing lot of things to do. One can spend several weeks in the city alone, doing something different every day.
Cheap London hotels do not have to be dive hotels in seedy areas. All too often travelers think that if they are seeking cheap London hotels that they will need to sacrifice quality and safety for price. The reality is, however, that if you have the right travel professionals assisting you, you will find cheap London hotels that are clean, safe and enjoyable.
You can either stay at cheap London hotels that will turn a great day into a nightmare in a hurry, or you can stay at moderate London hotels at cheap London hotels rates in order to keep your day on the same great tone. The choice is fairly obvious.
London has great sites to see for the entire family, as well as many things to enjoy. Shopping is legendary in London so staying at cheap London hotels can help you save some pounds for a shopping spree before you leave. You will also find that there are great restaurants with many different cuisines ranging from Indian food, Italian food and British food. By staying in cheap London hotels you are able to do more, see more and enjoy more.
Most of the hotel accommodation in this bracket is termed ‘bed and breakfast’ hotels. This can be misleading to the unaware. No it’s not a cozy family owned guest house with personal attentive hosts, traditional English breakfasts and home-made offerings, commonly available outside London. The vast majority are small hotels with 20-50 rooms, staffed by immigrants on very low salaries with very simple rooms, seldom lifts and ‘continental breakfasts’. That is not to say that these establishments should be avoided, but there are an awful lot of poor quality ones.
The main cheap hotel districts in London are Bayswater, Victoria and Kings Cross. Here you will see lots of these bed and breakfast hotels together in clusters. An ensuite double or twin room with breakfast in these areas is around 70-100$US.
Kings Cross has a poor reputation, it used to be notorious for drugs, crime and prostitution. That is all largely behind it now and it’s a district on the up, the whole area is being rejuvenated and Eurostar Trains will terminate at Kings Cross station in 2007. The bed and breakfast hotels are all around a garden square immediately opposite Kings Cross Station.
Kings Cross is no more than a mile from the West End, the central entertainment area of London, and there is lots of public transport on your doorstep. Bayswater is on the northern border of Hyde Park, London’s biggest, and within a mile are Oxford Street, Kensington Palace and Paddington Station, (terminus for the Heathrow Express airport link. Bayswater is a traditional budget area and a great place to stay for the cost conscious traveler.
Victoria is very central, Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey and the London Eye are all within walking distance. The cheap hotels are south of the railway station, stretching from the coach stations to Pimlico Underground. The area is pleasant and safe.
Some of the better bed and breakfasts include the Montana Excel and Howard Winchester Hotels in Kings Cross, the Central Hotel in Victoria and the Blakemore and Annur Hotels in Bayswater. Some of these may be advertised as three star hotels - beware in small print you may notice the words ’self rated’.
London has a reputation for expensive hotel accommodation with very little cheap budget hotels. This article is a guide to finding a cheap hotel in London.
Make Your Money Go Further In London: Find A Cheap Hotel by Lisa Scott
132 Landscapes of England - Hayle - Cornwall
Landscapes Of England: Hayle by Steven Cronin
The sea roars, whipped into a frenzy by the Atlantic winds racing across the bay. The waves look good today, surfers will be out for sure. Come rain or shine, these boys are dedicated.
You can taste the salty spray as it draws you towards the water. The familiar smell of seaweed was home. I knew I was back.
The Cornish town of Hayle sits in the far southwest corner of England, near the midpoint of St Ives bay. It lies approximately 10 miles north of Penzance and is part of the Heritage Coast of Cornwall, owned by the National Trust.
The Trust has purchased large chunks of the Cornish coastline, ensuring protection for its wildlife and natural beauty.
“Morning,” greets an elderly man, his face weathered, exposed to the elements and sands of time. His dog retrieves his master’s stick from the white surf.
“Wind’s up. Pity the small boats today,” he continues, his faithful companion by his side, stick in mouth.
The small fishing boats leave regularly, setting out from Hayle harbour and sailing along the estuary at high tide and into the big blue. They must return before low tide else the estuary runs dry.
Hayle is part of a beautiful stretch of coastline running from St Ives to the west, through to Godrevy Point in the east and its symbolic lighthouse.
Godrevy Lighthouse features predominantly in paintings by John Miller who has captured the stunning natural beauty on canvass in many of his famous prints.
Westwards leads to the estuary and inland to the working fishing port. The small dock escorts you to the high street, a mixture of old and new. Shopping here is not great; Hayle’s strength is its coastline.
Approximately halfway along the high street are the best Cornish pasties money can buy. Upon the corner sits the old bakers’ shop, striving to meet demand for the local delicacy.
At least half a dozen work the ovens tirelessly to satisfy the endless queues. Seagulls perch atop the roof hoping for a taste of the action.
Across the road, the Cornish Arms serves a great pint of ale with which to wash down your meal. Relax and enjoy the unique Cornish ambience where strangers stop to say hello. Far from the mega metropolis cities, life in Hayle slows down to a crawl.
Steven Cronin owns the City Breaks website featuring city break special offers from luxury hotels to budget accommodations. For more information please visit http://www.sargas.co.uk
Article Source: http://www.fridayteam.co.uk/freearticles
131 Glasgow City Guide
Glasgow City Guide, Including Glasgow Hotels by Ms Maria Williams
Glasgow is already a top tourist destination for many travellers in Europe. If you were thinking about going on holiday to Glasgow, you may be excited to learn about Glasgow’s world famous art collections. Glasgow has some of the best shopping in Europe. There is a Lighthouse, the Gallery of Modern Art of Glasgow and plenty of museums and interesting entertainments. If you were thinking of taking a holiday in the UK, try visiting Glasgow.
Places of Interest in Glasgow
To get started, let’s look at some places of interest that are popular with Glasgow tourists.
Glasgow Cathedral - Glasgow Cathedral was built around the thirteenth and fifteenth centuries. During the Reformation period in 1560, it survived the threat of being torn down and is considered to be the only still standing authentic cathedral from that era. Its gothic style structure makes for a wonderful architectural gem to discover on your travels. It is open for viewing through almost any time of the year.
The Lighthouse - The Lighthouse in Glasgow is a national centre for architecture and design. It was once a newspaper office for the Glasgow Herald. Over 700,000 people have already visited it since it opened its door. It now contains galleries, shopping, a couple of cafes and a miniaturized version of “Wee People’s City”.
The Gallery of Modern Art - The Gallery of Modern Art in Glasgow is one of the most popular modern art galleries in the UK. It houses contemporary artwork, most with the theme of addressing social issues. It is open nearly all year long and children are welcome. Ask for a free-guided tour.
Glasgow Tower - For a unique architectural gem, try visiting the Glasgow Tower. It is the first tower ever created that revolved full circle, and not just the top. The entire tower can circle around from the base. There are displays inside about Glasgow’s past and displays plans for future developments. From the viewing platform at the top, visitors can see out as far as forty miles.
Things to Do in Glasgow
Shopping and activities in Glasgow make for an enjoyable time while visiting the city. Check out these can’t miss features.
Merchant City Area - The area called Merchant City contains all sorts of shops from clothing to books and antiques and more. Not to mention the various restaurants and cafes to stop by for a cuppa.
Clubs in Glasgow - If you are looking for a club for dancing or meeting the locals, try some of the more popular ones. Sub Club is located on Jamaica Street. The Arches is on Argyle Street. The Garage is on Sauchiehall Street. Each one of these clubs offers up unique fun and can be easily found.
Pubs in Glasgow - For a collection of authentic United Kingdom pubs, Glasgow offers a variety of them. Looking for real ale or live music? There are a variety of pubs to fit every preference. For example, if you want a more fashionable crowd, head for Bar Soba on Mitchell Lane.
Where to Eat in Glasgow
A holiday in Glasgow isn’t complete until you have a meal at one of the more famous restaurants. Try a few of these suggestions.
Aurora Restaurant - For food fashioned after Scottish cuisine, try Aurora Glasgow Restaurant on 2 Port Dundas Place. All dishes are cooked to order, including delectable delights like roast salsify with shellfish vinaigrette or Gressingham Duck breast. Dinner may cost only £30 per person.
16 Bryres Road - For a Brasseire menu, you will want to try out 16 Bryres Road. You won’t have any trouble finding it, though it is a small restaurant. It is a favourite for locals in Glasgow and for good reason. It was listed as one of the best restaurants in Glasgow in a number of magazines. You can find Confit lamb shoulder, grilled fillet of halibut along with prune and almond chocolate brownies with clotted cream listed on the menu.
Bluu - Bluu in Glasgow offers a European menu for its patrons. Located on 60 Trongate Albion Street, Bluu’s menu consists of ravioli with spicy pineapple salsa and delicious Iced Malteser parfait with white chocolate sauce. Bluu’s tasty meals will range from £20 - £40.
Hotels and Accommodation in Glasgow
After shopping and visiting museums and a nice meal, you’ll want to relax in a hotel that continues the Glasgow experience. Try these highly recommended Glasgow hotels.
Carlton George Hotel
Dreamhouse Serviced Apartments
Express by Holiday Inn Glasgow City- Riverside
Alexander Thomson
Best Western Fenwick Hotel
Glasgow City Charing Cross Premier Travel Inn
Rennie Mackintosh Hotel (Central Station)
Quality Hotel Central Glasgow
City Inn Glasgow
Ramada Glasgow City
Crowne Plaza Glasgow
Victorian House
Charing Cross House
McLays Guest House
Hampton Court Hotel
Millennium Hotel Glasgow
Buchanan Hotel
Atlantic Hotel
Townhouse Hotel
Argyll Hotel
Manor Park Hotel
The Belhaven Hotel
Albion Hotel
Erskine Bridge Hotel
Swallow Hotel Glasgow
Brunswick Merchant City Hotel
Merchant lodge Hotel
Busby Hotel
Dean Park Hotel
The Normandy Hotel
Glynhill Hotel and Leisure Club
Devoncove Hotel Glasgow
Express By Holiday Inn Glasgow Airport
Ambassador Hotel
Menzies Glasgow Hotel
Tulip Inn Glasgow
Malmaison Glasgow
Corus hotel Glasgow
Campanile Hotel Glasgow
Thistle Glasgow
The Spires Serviced Suites
Novotel Glasgow Centre
Jurys Glasgow Hotel
Jurys Inn Glasgow
Radisson SAS Hotel Glasgow
Fraser Suites Glasgow
Best Western Ewington Hotel
Dreamhouse City Centre
Artto Hotel
The A-List Apartments, Glasgow
Euro Hostel Ltd
Crowwood House Hotel
City Serviced Apartments and Lodges
Rennie Mackintosh City Hotel
City Apartments
Express by Holiday Inn Glasgow Theatreland
Holiday Inn Glasgow Theatreland
City Apartments Glasgow
Entertainment in Glasgow
There is no lack of entertainment for visitors to Glasgow. Check out these can’t miss events.
IMAXâ Theatre - Located on 50 Pacific Quay in the Glasgow Science Centre, IMAXâ Theatre offers entertainment for the entire family. Watch films that explore the world around you. With a huge screen and top of the line technology, the IMAXâ theatre is open nearly all year.
The King’s Theatre - Located on Bath Street in Glasgow, the King’s Theatre opened in 1904. With its most clever design, the theatre plays host to professional and amateur play alike. Find musicals and pantomime and drama performances by visiting the King’s theatre.
Glasgow plays host to thousands of visitors on holiday each and every year. Come join in the fun, food and flair that can be found in Glasgow.
Biography
Name: Maria Williams
Website: Sleep UK
Biography: Maria writes for Sleep UK - providers of hotels in glasgow.
Article Source: http://www.fridayteam.co.uk/freearticles
130 Nottingham City Guide
Nottingham City Guide, Including Nottingham Hotels by Ms Maria Williams
If you are seeking an interesting and relaxing holiday, try visiting Nottingham. There are many things to see and do. For instance, a tour of Nottingham Castle is sure to delight tourists young and old. There are caves, galleries and plenty of entertainment. Also try out some shops, pubs and other fun.
Places of interest
Galleries or even a castle. Nottingham is filled with things to do. Take a tour of some of these prime destinations.
Angel Row Gallery - When it opened in 1991, it instantly acquired a status as a sort of flagship of contemporary art. Living artists have created all the artwork displayed at Angel Row Gallery in Nottingham. Exhibitions are shown throughout the year. Angel Row Gallery makes for a delightful tourist destination for those visiting Nottingham.
Nottingham Castle - Nottingham Castle is also a museum and art gallery as well. Located on Castle Road in Nottingham, Nottingham Castle used to be a Duke’s mansion back in the 18th century. Learn the story of Nottingham and visit the gardens, exhibitions and don’t forget to stop into the café and museum shop.
Brewhouse Yard Museum - For something of a change in your Nottingham adventure, visit the Brewhouse Yard Museum on Castle Boulevard. It is officially called the Museum of Nottingham Life. If you want to learn about culture, you can get a glimpse at what life has been like for the people of Nottingham through a history of over 200 years.
Things to Do
After the museums and castles, there are many things to to occupy yourself in Nottingham. Hang out with the locals in popular clubs or do a bit of shopping in Nottingham’s popular shopping districts.
Dogma - Hang out with locals in a friendly club called Dogma in Nottingham, located on Byard Lane. It has a friendly atmosphere that is slightly sophisticated. Most locals consider it a great place for live music and dancing the night away.
Old Market Square - For plenty of shopping and entertainment, visit Old Market Square in Nottingham. It has plenty of shops and photographic architecture to capture the spirit of Nottingham. Don’t forget to check out the Angel Row central library or the Bell Inn located in the Old Market Square.
Pubs - You can’t visit the United Kingdom without spending one evening in a pub with the locals. Try some of the more favourite pubs in Nottingham. Some of the more popular ones are Chaplins Bar, Tynemill Ltd., and Admiral Rodney.
Food & Drink
After all the entertainment and excitement of exploring Nottingham, you will want to relax and experience a nice meal to complete the evening. Try one of these highly recommended restaurants.
Moog - Located on Newdigate Street in Nottingham, Moog offers a top quality bar and restaurant for hungry tourists and locals alike. Its unique atmosphere makes it an enjoyable place for a rack of lamb or anything else you would like. The food starts at £10 a plate.
Vision Restaurant and Café Bar - In Nottingham is a unique restaurant and bar called Vision. It opened in 2001 by Trevor Cummings. You can meet him at the restaurant most nights, as he is often found in the kitchen, as he is a long time chef. Try some Honey Roast Half Duckling or Rump Steak. Dinner starts at just £20 per person.
World Service Restaurant - World Service Restaurant and bar in Nottingham offers a different flavour for tourists. With three dining rooms, you can eat in elegant style while sampling some of the finest food. A restaurant award winner for three years on a row, World Service Restaurant offers a menu consisting of roast breast of chicken, grilled cod and grilled fillet of beef. Dinner may start at £30 per person and up.
Hotels and Accommodations
There are no shortage of fine hotels in Notingham. Try a few of these favourite Nottingham hotels.
Premier Apartments Nottingham
Village Hotel Nottingham
City Centre Welbeck Hotel Nottingham, Nottinghamsh
Park Inn Nottingham Formerly Nottingham Moat House
Crowne Plaza Nottingham
The Strathdon Hotel
Ramada Nottingham / Derby
Novotel Nottingham
Best Western Westminster Hotel
The Saffron White and Green Hotel
The Nottingham Gateway Hotel
Holiday Inn Nottingham-Castle Marina
Comfort Hotel Nottingham (city centre)
Citilodge Nottingham
Rutland Square Hotel
Express by Holiday Inn Nottingham City Centre
The Dakota Hotel
Jurys Inn Nottingham
Nottingham City Centre (Goldsmith St) Premier Trav
The Britannia Nottingham Hotel
Colwick Hall Hotel
Entertainment
After a cosy night’s sleep, you may want to experience more of what Nottingham has to offer. How about these selected entertainments!
Galleries of Justice - Inside Nottingham is the Galleries of Justice. For fun, you could be arrested, sentenced and executed all in an afternoon. The building was originally a court starting in the 1700’s. Don’t miss out on murder mystery nights and ghost tours provided by the staff of the Galleries of Justice.
Theatre Royal - A journey to Nottingham would not be complete without a little bit of theatre. Visit Royal Centre where you can see drama, comedy and more preformed by some of the best groups in the world. It was built in 1865 and has since house some of the best entertainment. Located on Theatre Square, it is highly accessible to tourists visiting Nottingham.
With everything available to you in Nottingham, you can have fun by yourself or with your entire family. There is plenty to see, taste and feel while on your holiday. Visit Nottingham for fun, excitement and adventure.
Biography
Name: Maria Williams
Website: http://www.sleepuk.com
Biography: Maria writes for Sleep UK - providers of hotels in Nottingham.
Article Source: http://www.fridayteam.co.uk/freearticles
129 Cheltenham City Guide
Cheltenham City Guide, Including Cheltenham Hotels by Ms Maria Williams
Located in the heart of the scenic Cotswolds, Cheltenham is a city famous for many things – its horseracing and award-winning gardens being just two of them. Then, of course, you have the Regency architecture of the city centre and the lively shopping district, elements that come together to bring vivacity and life to this Gloucestershire city. Further, the city also proves to be a fine base from which to explore the surrounding Cotswolds, home of gently rolling hills and quaint, charming villages.
Places of interest
When you come to Cheltenham, you will soon discover that the draw of the city lies in its appearance, for it has long been considered to be one of Britain’s prettiest towns. Accordingly, many of Cheltenham’s places to visit are ones that focus on scenic displays and historic buildings. Some of the most popular tourist destinations are:
The Holst Birthplace Museum. Originally the home of the famous composer Gustav Holst (of ‘The Planets’ fame), this Regency home shows life as it was in the Victorian period – and incorporates a working Victorian kitchen.
Pittville Park & Pump Room. The beautiful Park contains two lakes, a golf course and spacious, well-tended lawns, whilst the historic Pump Room contains the drinkable spa waters that originally made Cheltenham famous.
The Imperial Gardens. For almost two hundred years, the gardens have been enjoyed by thousands of visitors every year – not least due to the 25,000 bedding plants used annually to create the extensive floral displays.
Sudeley Castle & Gardens. Located just eight miles outside of Cheltenham, the castle is open during the summer and visitors have the chance to see some of the beautiful paintings and artefacts inside.
The Promenade. Cheltenham’s most famous street boasts pavement cafes, smart shops and an attractive history. Lined with trees and boasting Regency architecture throughout, it is considered to be the most picturesque part of the city.
Things to do
During your stay in Cheltenham, you’ll discover a pleasing variety of attractions to visit and things to do, whether you’re a family or couple, or just visiting alone. Throughout the year, the city is buzzing with activity, playing host to many festivals and events, such as the Literature Festival. Just a few things to see and do include:
Cheltenham Town Hall. The elegant hall plays host to festivals in the city throughout the year, and at the same time stays a concert programme in which the music ranges from the classical to the contemporary.
The Everyman Theatre. This hotspot features a massive variety of live entertainment, where you can watch musicals, comedy, drama and even West End productions on tour.
Cheltenham Racecourse. This world-famous venue is home to plenty of racing during the October to April season. Why not time your visit to coincide with the popular National Hunt Festival in March, or visit the Hall of Fame that relays the history of steeple chasing?
Cotswolds Coach Tours. Take the opportunity and join a scenic coach tour in which you’ll join a guide and take in some of the most beautiful views of the English Cotswolds.
Cotswold Farm Park. See history brought to life with numerous animal demonstrations and displays, an ideal place to visit for all the family. There are many rare breeds of farmyard animal from sheep to cattle, waterfowl to horses.
Food & Drink
Cheltenham is home to many different types of restaurant, with the focus on quality. Of course, if you’re after something fast and easy, you’ll find plenty of different cafés and takeaways serving up what you’re looking for, but Cheltenham particularly prides itself on being the home of many stylish eateries. Here are some of the best you can sample:
The Scena Bistro. Enjoy one of the finest dining experiences in Cheltenham at this French restaurant, which has a relaxed and welcoming style.
Off the Square Restaurant. Located in Cheltenham’s fashionable Montpellier district, this friendly eatery serves a variety of dishes on the menu, including plenty of old favourites. Eat in style.
Monty’s Seafood Restaurant. Visit and enjoy a flexible menu that offers a range of different seafood. Alternatively, keep it simple and enjoy the stylish accompaniment of oysters with champagne.
The Storyteller Restaurant. Located in the heart of Cheltenham, this Californian restaurant is both welcoming and atmospheric, boasting the famous Mississippi Seafood Platter and the taste bud-teasing Duck from Heaven.
Epicurian. This is one of Cheltenham’s top restaurants, featuring a bistro and wine bar.
Hotels & Accommodations
There are literally hundreds of places to stay during your visit to Cheltenham, whether you’re looking for a hotel, guesthouse, bed and breakfast or self-catering establishment. Alternatively, other types of accommodation include camping and caravan sites and hostels. Many of the hotels offer special offers and it’s always advisable to search around to find the best deals. Elizabethan manors and country mansions serve as the setting for some of the top hotels in the district.
Kings Arms Hotel
Cheltenham Park Hotel
George Cheltenham Ltd
Beaumont House
Macdonald Queen’s Hotel
Cotswold Grange Hotel
Hotel On The Park
North Hall Hotel
The Prestbury House Hotel & Oaks Restaurant
Clarence Court Hotel
The Quality Hotel Cheltenham
Cleeve Hill Hotel
Thistle Cheltenham
The CheltenhamTownhouse Hotel
Lords of the Manor
Rising Sun Hotel
White Hart Inn
De La Bere Hotel
Oaklands Bed and Breakfast
Entertainment
The night life in Cheltenham is completely entertaining with a host of nightclubs and exciting pubs and bars. You’ll find Cheltenham to be a welcoming and friendly city where you’ll always feel safe. If you’re looking for a nightclub, Subtone and Enigma are two of the most popular, with attractive line-ups of events going on all the time; alternatively, if you’re a fan of Hollywood then you’ll discover that the Odeon cinema shows all the latest blockbusters as well as popular British films.
Cheltenham is sometimes called a city within a park, and when you visit, you’ll see why. The architecture of the city itself is beautiful enough, with Regency-period buildings (over two thousand of them listed!) and attractive designs, but the picturesque parks are what make Cheltenham really special. There are lots of tree-lined avenues, plenty of floral displays and many more examples of nature in bloom that give Cheltenham a truly attractive appearance. Combine this with the wealth of activities and places to see, and it’s hard to deny that Cheltenham is one city you really must visit.
Biography Name: Maria Williams Website: http://www.sleepuk.com
Biography: Maria writes for Sleep UK - providers of hotels in Cheltenham.
Article Source: http://www.fridayteam.co.uk/freearticles
128 Swansea City Guide
Swansea City Guide, Including Swansea Hotels by Ms Maria Williams
Swansea is located in the heart of Swansea Bay, one of Wales’ most beautiful regions, with landscapes incorporating sandy beaches, waterfalls, rolling countryside and deep valleys. Swansea itself is the second largest city in Wales, and a highly popular tourist destination, widely known for providing excellent shopping facilities and plenty of things to do.
Places of interest
Swansea has a diverse array of places to visit. The many attractions found in and around the city are designed to give the tourist and casual visitor a wide range of things to experience – whether you want to get back to nature and enjoy the picturesque parks, learn more about the region’s history, or simply enjoy some of the city’s exciting culture. A small selection of places to visit includes:
Swansea Bay. This sandy beach stretches out for five full miles and is additionally within walking distance of the city centre. Choose a romantic stroll on the beach, or if you’re feeling adventurous, pick from the rollerblading and cycling activities on offer.
Swansea Museum. Over 160 years old, the museum is home to collections of art, ceramics and Egyptology, whilst the history of the city is presented in a way to engage and entertain every visitor.
The Dylan Thomas Centre. Learn about the famous Welsh poet at this permanent exhibition, which offers a yearly programme of events and a festival every year in the autumn.
Gower Heritage Centre. This rural museum offers something really special – a working, twelfth century corn and saw mill. There are lots of activities for the kids to take part in, from craft-making and puppet theatres, to animals and play areas.
Plantasia. You’ll discover this gigantic hothouse right in the centre of Swansea – and be prepared to undertake a voyage of discovery, as you witness exotic flora and fauna in tropical, humid conditions. A perfect place to visit, whatever the weather!
Things to do
When it comes to activities, Swansea has it covered. When you’ve finished shopping – and with hundreds of shops to browse, it’ll take you a while – then you can choose from lots of exciting things to do, like the following:
Rainbow Sailing School. Enjoy a taster day and sail around the Gower coast with an experienced guide.
Breakout Adventure. If outdoor adventure’s your thing, then choose from a selection including canoeing, surfing and climbing.
Clyne Gardens. If you have a love for nature then you’ll enjoy the many delights to be found in these beautiful gardens; come and see water features, the bog garden and more.
The Chocolate Factory. This working factory gives visitors a chance to take a tour and see how chocolate is produced, with sampling at every opportunity.
1940’s Swansea Bay. This recreation provides an authentic experience of life during WWII, and brings new meaning to the phrase ‘living history’. Take part in an air raid; try living on rations, and more.
Food & Drink
If it’s food and drink you’re after, you’ll find that Swansea offers a selection of choice restaurants and eateries, with something provided for every taste. Both traditional Welsh fare and seafood are specialities, but the city is also home to many restaurants serving international recipes, so you have plenty to choose from. There are also dozens of cafes and takeaways if you’re not looking for the full wining-and-dining experience. Some of the finest eateries include:
Abernethy’s. Located in the Maritime Quarter, this restaurant serves up Welsh dishes as well as international favourites. There’s also a leisure area nearby which enables you to work off your food.
Bizzie Lizzie’s Bistro & Restaurant. If you’re looking for traditional Welsh meals then this is the place to come. There are many specialities and vegetarian dishes to choose from.
Bouchon de Rossi. A restaurant offering plenty of French cuisine, located right in the heart of Swansea’s city centre. Choose from salads, crepes and more.
Eleo’s Brasserie. If you’re a fan of European food then this restaurant is a great place to visit. Spanish and Portuguese meals are made on the spot, and there’s a wide variety of wine to choose from to compliment your meal.
Gallini’s. As a coastal city, Swansea is noted for its fine fish and Gallini’s is the perfect place to sample it. Italian dishes are also available, and the restaurant offers pleasing views of the Marina whilst you eat.
Hotels & Accommodations
Swansea is a popular tourist destination and there are plenty of places where you can find accommodation. Many of the hotels are on the seafront and offer a combination of great prices with friendly atmospheres. Stunning sea views are something you’ll quickly become used to during your stay. Alternatively, if you look a little further inland, you’ll find many unique family-run guesthouses and inns that offer home-cooking and comfortable rooms. Other alternatives include self-catering, including bay apartments; many campsites and caravan parks; hostels and more.
Entertainment
If you want to be entertained during your stay in Swansea, you’ll discover numerous venues all offering a diverse range of entertainments. For instance, the Swansea Grand Theatre regularly offers a programme including ballet, drama, music and opera, as well as something for the kids. If it’s nightlife you’re looking for, then you’re advised to take a trip to the Wind Street area, which is known as the liveliest in the city! Here you’ll discover numerous restaurants, pubs, clubs and bars, and plenty of live entertainment just waiting to be enjoyed.
Swansea is one of those places that people keep coming back to, time after time. The Welsh Tourist Board is keen to attract visitors and has, in recent years, spent £30 million on developing a new attraction, the National Waterfront Museum. Meanwhile, your visit to the city would be amiss without a trip to the indoor market, where you can choose from fresh fish and local delicacies, as well as purchase all the souvenirs and unique gifts that you could ever want. With stunning scenery and lots of interesting attractions, Swansea is one place you’ll want to discover for yourself.
Biography Name: Maria Williams Website: http://www.sleepuk.com
Biography: Maria writes for Sleep UK - providers of hotels in Swansea.
127 Landscapes of England - Brean - Somerset
Landscapes Of England: Brean by Steven Cronin
As a child I can remember thinking of Brean as the most boring place on earth. The bright lights of Blackpool were much more exiting. Countless arcades and video games would ebb away your time, as well as your money. The possibilities were endless.
Age helps you appreciate the finer details in life. Suddenly Brean had become a beautiful stretch of coastline boasting windswept sand dunes and several miles of golden sands.
So the funfair may have grown and its visitors gotten younger, but Brean retains an inner calm, somewhere for the weekend to relax and recharge your batteries, run dangerously low by the rigours of city life.
And what a wonderful, panoramic view that unfolds before you. To the left, reaching out towards the horizon lies the rugged coastline of north Devon. Gazing straight ahead over the Bristol Channel, your eyes are drawn towards the south coast of Wales.
On a clear day, with the aid of binoculars, you can make out the Cardiff docks. Nearby is the magnificent Millennium Stadium, pride of the nation and home to the Welsh rugby team and many other great sporting events.
The summer months bring a large influx of tourists and are busy days for beach patrol. The flat sands leave a huge area of beach exposed at low tide, revealing dangerous mud flats.
The warning signs emphasize the danger of walking too far out towards the sea. Lives have been lost in the past, victims of the sinking mud and sand. The lifeguard’s jeep patrolling up and down the beach is a familiar sight in summer.
“Move inland away from the sea,” bellows the coastguard through the jeep’s loudspeakers. It’s incredible the number of people who ignore the warning signs, remaining oblivious to the dangers around them.
The receding tide has exposed a path of shells leading northwards along the shore to Brean Down, a narrow piece of land jutting out into the sea.
The one hundred or so steps to the top are a challenge. An ideal spot for binoculars, the summit of Brean Down casts its eye many miles. The coastlines of South Wales and southwest England feature predominantly in the skyline.
A clear day yields some memorable views. From up here, Brean appears to be carpeted with caravans spread as far as the eye can see. Holiday parks are everywhere; it’s easy to appreciate why Brean is so popular with caravan lovers.
Steven Cronin owns the City Breaks website featuring city break special offers from luxury hotels to budget accommodations. For more information please visit http://www.sargas.co.uk
Article Source: http://www.fridayteam.co.uk/freearticles
126 Draculas Whitby
Dracula’s Whitby
It rains rather a lot in Britain. Even the Tourist Board aren’t unwise enough to pretend it doesn’t. Most of our seaside resorts have, therefore, been spoilt by over-development to ‘cater for’ visitors when it’s too cold or wet for the beach.
Whitby’s different. Certainly, there are amusement arcades, fortune-tellers and gift-shops in plenty. But, since Whitby is still a working fishing port, it hasn’t been taken over completely.
Anyway, I was in Whitby researching for an article about explorer Captain James Cook. So, the weather didn’t really matter. But, I hoped it would brighten later, because I also wanted some pictures of Whitby Abbey for a calendar project. I didn’t get them, but walked in the footsteps of Whitby’s fictional villain, as well as its real hero!
Whitby Harbour is a narrow river-mouth. On each side, a red cliff towers, and to its slopes, the old town clings. The West Cliff belongs to Captain Cook. His statue stands looking out to sea, atop the cliff. As a young man, he lodged with, and worked for a merchant named John Walker, in Grape Lane. Walker’s house still stands, and is now a museum, devoted to the achievements of his protégé.
It was probably from the West Cliff that, on 31st October, 1885, Irish novelist Bram Stoker witnessed the cargo ship ‘Dimitry’ out of Narva, run aground on Tate Hill Sands. When, some years later, he wrote Dracula, he had the Count arrive in the ‘Demeter’, from Varna, steered by the dead hand of her Captain.
The East Cliff is ‘Dracula Country’, but it doesn’t belong exclusively to him. On top of the cliff stand the ruins of 7th Century Whitby Abbey, where a simple herd-boy once sang to, and captivated the Abbess Hilda. Hilda went on to become a Saint; the Song of Caedmon is said to be the pioneer of English religious music.
‘Caedmon’s Trod’ is the name given to one of the two sets of steps leading up to the Abbey from the old town. Curiously, though, the commemorative Cross of Caedmon stands at the top of the other steps, called the Abbey Steps, or, more usually, simply the 199 steps. Don’t ask; I didn’t count them!
Both sets are good for pictures looking across the red-tiled roofs of old Whitby. The sun shows the tiles to their best advantage … but, wind and rain ensures that the steps aren’t too crowded! You pays your money … or, you gets up early, or you comes in winter!
The Abbey steps lead, as you might expect, to the Abbey. But, in front of the Abbey stands St. Mary’s Church, and its churchyard. Here, Stoker had Mina and Lucy watching the approach of the ‘Demeter’ … and here, the ill-fated Lucy Westenra met the Count while out sleepwalking … with the inevitable result!
Everyone who’s ever been to Whitby remembers ‘a great fish and chip shop by the harbour’. Most people I spoke to said the best of all was ‘Trenchers’… which, unfortunately, was destroyed by fire!
But, there are many, many more! A lady in the Tourist Information Centre told me that it isn’t actually illegal to serve bad fish and chips in Whitby, but the competition is so fierce that anyone who does so, or is miserly with the portions, is unlikely to last very long.
From the many, I chose the ‘Endeavour and Resolution’ because of the ‘Captain Cook’ work I’d come to do. I wonder if there’s a fish and chip shop named after the Count, though? There ought to be; it would be the ideal place to pop into for a quick bite!
125 All Shook Up in Surrey
All Shook Up In Surrey – The Perfect Corporate Mix by Greg Birbeck
England is a land of contrasts – on one hand you will find the vibrant cities filled with lively activities, glittering nightlife and other attractions, on the other hand you will be equally delighted to discover the green and serene countryside. Filled with an impressive sense of fashion, quality dining, clubbing, shopping and much more, England is the favourite corporate event venue for arranging all sorts of fun filled corporate activities. From treasure hunts, team building activities, spy missions to dragon boat racing and cocktail making, you get a wide range of corporate events at your display.
Cocktail Making in Surrey
Ever thought of participating in a contest in front of around 3500 live spectators? It definitely sounds thrilling. Chillisauce, with its treasure house of corporate event planning ideas, provides you the opportunity to do just that. Pairs of contestants are pre-chosen from your company to participate in the fun filled cocktail making challenge on stage. Each pair is given a bar with similar sets of cocktail ingredients. You get to perform on stage to show your creative side amidst constant cheering from the audience. The cocktail making challenge in Surry is easily one of the most sought after corporate event. It’s a fun packed corporate show full of entertainment, comedy and creativity.
Advantages of Cocktail Making Corporate Activities
If you are looking for creating a social bond amongst the corporate team members, then cocktail making is the best way to do it. It is an excellent choice to pep up the team spirit as this corporate event aims at rewarding a team for a job well done. The participants will be eager to share their on stage experience with their colleagues, thus encouraging constant interaction with all the team members.
When you take cocktail making corporate activity in Surrey to a competitive level, it turns up to be one of the best corporate team building means with equal enthusiastic participation from all the members of the corporate team. As far as exciting and team involving corporate activities are concerned, trust Chillisauce to deliver you the perfect choice you are looking for.
Greg Birbeck - www.chillisauce.co.uk
Article Source: http://www.fridayteam.co.uk/freearticles
123 Keith Kellett - Freelance Writer
I’m a free-lance writer and photographer, living in Southern England, near the cathedral city of Salisbury, just a short distance from the ancient monument of Stonehenge.
I have a taste for travel, adventure, humour and fun undiminished by over 30 years in the Royal Air Force. Writing & taking pictures as a hobby began in the early 1980s, and I turned professional on retirement from active service in 1996.
Since then, I’ve been writing about, and photographing food and drink, old cars, beer, steam engines, beer and brewing, historical re-enactments, beer, bygones, gardens and, of course, travel, nature and the outdoors and beer. I once said the only things I won’t write about are finance, politics and personal relationships.
So, if you need words or pictures, give me a call. My rates are reasonable, and it costs nothing to ask.
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Keith Kellett - Outdoor & Travel Writing & Photography
5, Burwood Close
Amesbury
Wiltshire
SP4 7QH
England
Tel: (+44) 1980 590662
Mobile: (+44) 7790 596725
Email: keithkellett @ ntlworld.com
Web: www.travelwriters.com/keithkellett
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