Kimberly Fisher's Blog, page 216

Beauty: Gotham Skincare Earth Day Special

 

Available beginning Monday, April 16th – Saturday, April 21st, Gotham Skincare (346 W. 57th St.; 212-616-9995 for appointments) is offering Earth's most decadent, all-natural food, as a refreshing and restorative facial treatment Earth Day package for only $120.00. Normally retailed at $270.00, this fruit filled package includes a raspberry and pineapple enzyme with steam, a signature Earth Day Papaya Enzyme Peel treatment, and a deep cleansing organic mud mask straight from the earth.

Fruit of the Earth Facial: Start off by prepping the skin with a raspberry and pineapple enzyme with steam. This fruity concoction dissolves away dead skin cells and surface debris to make extractions lift easier. Next, enjoy the signature Earth Day Papaya Enzyme Peel treatment. This invigorating all natural exfoliating treatment helps purify and regenerate the skin – green papaya, pineapple extract and honey, all help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and blemishes – great for all skin types. Lastly, finish it all off with a deep clarifying organic mud mask straight from the earth for oily skin or enjoy a nourishing and restorative mask with acai and soy to soothe and hydrate sensitive and drier skin types. Regular Price: $270.00. Discount Price: $120.00

About Gotham Skincare

Gotham Skincare – Manhattan's premier white glove medical spa practice, founded on the premise of providing a transformation center for guests – offers a full range of preventative and restorative skincare therapies, FDA-approved injectables and fillers, and personalized beauty treatments in a modern, boutique spa atmosphere. Overseen by Medical Director Brian A. Bonanni, M.D., Gotham Skincare provides the most sought-after, highly effective, non-invasive treatments in the industry. Micro-current, ultrasonic exfoliation, LED light therapy and oxygen infusion are combined with medical-grade skincare products, including Obagi and NIA24, to produce visible results. For more information, please visit www.GothamSkincare.com.

 

Filed under: beauty, new york Tagged: beauty, gotham skin care, new york

Travel: Casa Colina

 The benefits of renting a private home during a vacation are numerous, including cost savings, privacy and location. Couple that with enjoying the amenities often found at a high-end resort like specially prepared meals, housecleaning services, security, pool and more and you will see why a vacation at the private and luxurious villa Casa Colina is a smart choice this summer.

Located in one of Mexico's safest states, Jalisco, the six-bedroom Casa Colina is an ideal setting for families, girlfriend getaways, weddings and couples. The villa's privacy lets guests completely take over this spacious and elegantly designed villa and enjoy its posh amenities such as a private entrance, infinity-edge pool, outdoor Jacuzzi, sunbathing deck, poolside gourmet BBQ and private staff and chef. Additional amenities include:

•    Surround-sound home theatre with a 65" Panasonic plasma TV, satellite receiver, and DVD player.

•    Fitness center with state-of-the-art machines and fold-back windows with views of the ocean and mountains. Chilled towels and water are also available.

•    Chic indoor/outdoor Top of the World Palapa with a custom-built Estrella chandelier, fully-stocked bar and 250-degree views of the mountains and ocean.

•    Lagoon View Lounge with a hand-laid brick cathedral ceiling and Balinese furnishings.

•    And gorgeous location among exquisitely landscaped gardens with views of the majestic mountains and turquoise colors of the Pacific Ocean.

One of the best parts about staying at a private villa like Casa Colina is that families and groups can enjoy this ultra luxurious home at a fraction of the cost of staying at a resort. With six spacious and impeccably designed guest rooms that include furnished junior and master suites, several guests can stay at the villa at one time reducing the nightly price per person close to $118. Guests can also save on the costs of dining out by enjoying specially prepared meals cooked by the villa's private chef, including lunches served poolside, sunset cocktail hours and family-style meals served in one of Casa Colina's indoor dining areas.

Guests will be even more impressed with the villa's special savings offered this year with prices nearly 50 percent off regular rates, including:

•    Through April 30, Casa Colina's mid-season rates, which are typically about $3800 per night, are now $1900. (Casa Colina also offers its mid-season rates October 1 – November 30).

•    Low-season rates, which run May 1 through September 30, are discounted to $1600 per night.

•    And its high season rates (December 1 – January 31), which are normally $4900 per night are $2400.

•    All rates include airport pickup and drop off; private chef and staff; and laundry but excludes food, beverages, and phone, which are charged at actual cost without markup. A 50% deposit to secure booking is required. Balance payable 14 days prior to booking.

Descriptions of Casa Colina's guestrooms, which include balconies, private gardens and Jacuzzi tubs, are as follows:

•    Laguna Suite: Master bedroom suite with a California King bed, shower, Jacuzzi tub, private garden, breakfast table, and plush loungers.

•    Sueno Suite: Master bedroom suite with a California King bed, shower, Jacuzzi tub, outdoor shower, and private garden.

•    Oceano Suite: Master bedroom suite with a California King bed, shower, and a walkout balcony.

•    Luna Suite: Master bedroom suite with a California King bed, shower, and a walkout balcony.

•    Estrella Suite: Junior bedroom suite with a California Queen bed, shower, Jacuzzi tub, and walkout balcony.

•    Vista Suite: Corner bedroom suite with two queen beds, shower, Jacuzzi tub, and a walkout balcony.

Many tourists and travel journalists like CBS's Peter Greenberg have found Mexico to be completely safe. The area where Casa Colina is located is no exception. Nestled between Acapulco and Puerto Vallarta, Casa Colina is ideally situated in one of Mexico's most tourist friendly areas. And with its own private entrance and security, the villa is guaranteed to be a safe location for families, girlfriend getaways, weddings and more. Guests can also enjoy nearby attractions, including:

• Snorkeling or horseback riding on the beach.

• Visiting the five million-year-old Colima volcano.

• Tours of the surrounding areas including the quaint and romantic beaches in Barra de Navidad and the famous Playa La Audiencia on Santiago Peninsula (the beach where Bo Derek's movie "10" was filmed).

• Kayaking and scuba diving in the Pacific Ocean.

And access to the famous AAA four-diamond Isla Navidad Grand Bay Resort where the Casa Colina guests can enjoy golfing; playing tennis; horseback riding; water sports such as catamaran Hobie Cats; and deep-sea fishing available year-round at the Grand Bay Aquatic Club.

For more information about Casa Colina, visit  http://www.casacolina.com or call 312-961-3280.

About Casa Colina

Casa Colina is luxurious private villa located along Mexico's Pacific Coast between Puerto Vallarta and Acapulco. The intimate, upscale experience at Casa Colina includes six suites with ocean and mountain views; a private chef and staff; infinity-edge pool; fitness center; and indoor and outdoor elegant private dining areas with cathedral ceilings, fireplaces, and private bar space. Considered one of Mexico's most stunning private villas, Casa Colina is ideal for girlfriend getaways, bridal parties, honeymoons, couples getaways, and family reunions. Closest airports include regular domestic flights from Guadalajara (30 minutes) and Mexico City (50 minutes), and Playa de Oro International Airport is just 25 minutes away.

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Filed under: holiday, luxury, Mexico Tagged: casa colina, Mexico, villa

Travel: Live The Hunger Games

Visit the DuPont State Recreational Forest (also known as the arena in the movie) where you can find a dramatic landscape of waterfalls, hideaway lakes, streams and pines, as well as the spot where Peeta camouflaged himself in the movie, and traces of the pyrotechnics from the fireball sequence.

Next on your itinerary you can make a night out of Charlotte's NoDa neighborhood which is home to artsy galleries, bars and restaurants, as well as the spots where the "Hunger Games" cast spent their nights out. Barnardsville also hosts a Navitat Canopy Tour, which is home to one of the many ziplines in Western North Carolina. Close by this stop, pre-game scenes with Katniss and Gale were filmed in Pisgah National Forest.

CheapOair is offering the following deals: · New York to Charlotte, North Carolina for a 4 night/5 day stay at the Marriott Charlotte Southpark for $717 per person. *Sample hotel rate listed for travel from April 20, 2012 through April 24, 2012 and is based on availability; additional dates and locations available. Taxes and service fees included. Sample airfare is listed for New York to Charlotte.

Boston to Charlotte, North Carolina for a 3 night/4 day stay at the Doubletree by Hilton Charlotte Airport for $553 per person. *Sample hotel rate listed for travel from April 12, 2012 through April 15, 2012 and is based on availability; additional dates and locations available. Taxes and service fees included. Sample airfare is listed from Boston to Charlotte.

Los Angeles to Charlotte, North Carolina for a 3 night/4 day stay at the Renaissance Charlotte Southpark for $561 per person. *Sample hotel rate listed for travel from April 13, 2012 through April 16, 2012 and is based on availability; additional dates and locations available. Taxes and service fees included. Sample airfare is listed from Los Angeles to Charlotte.

For reservations, visit: http://www.cheapoair.com/vacations/special-packages/exclusive-vacation-packages.html.

Filed under: adventure, guest post Tagged: hunger games, north carolina

Travel Guest Post: 25 Things You Can do to Make Traveling Easy for Kids

Traveling with kids is one of the most rewarding experiences you can have. You get to see everything through your little ones' innocent eyes. The world seems to acquire a fresh coat of paint all of a sudden. However, travel can be traumatic for kids, especially little ones. Here are some tips to make it as easy as possible for them.

Slow it down: Your kids cannot travel at the same pace as you. Provide more rest stops on car journeys, and go exploring only as much as they can take.
Be flexible: If your little ones are cranky and uncooperative, it's because too much has been asked of them. Be flexible with schedules and planned events.
Try to keep up routines: Maintain as many of your at-home routines as possible such as bed-time stories, bath times and other routines.
Keep snacks ready: Kids use up their energy real quick. Always carry healthy snacks that they like. This will comfort them and keep them happy and satiated.
Invest in a car seat: Carry one on the plane for your toddler. Prevent your kid being thrown and tossed on a regular plane seat during bad weather.
Show pictures in advance: Let kids see pics of your destination in advance so that when they actually get there, they don't display the 'strange new place' crankiness.
Explain what to expect: Let your kids know what kind of weather to expect, rain, cold, or too much heat. This will help them adjust better.
Explain food habits: If people at your destination eat or behave differently, explain the differences beforehand and try to make it fun.
Help point out similarities: Help them spot familiar things such as certain car models, telephone booths, malls and so on along your route. This will help them relax knowing that some things are the same as at home.
Map your route in advance: Find out good eateries that have bathroom facilities (and hopefully kids' play area) on your route.
Get your kid used to headphones: Smaller kids may not understand headphones or why they should use them. Practice at home and engage them during flights with onboard entertainment so that they pass the time at ease.
12.   Look for night stops: Kids are more comfortable tucked into bed at night; it keeps them relaxed and happy the next day and prevents crankiness. Try not to drive straight through nights.
Pack their comfort toys: Kids can get overwhelmed and scared of sudden change. It helps to have their favorite toys and loveys at hand. Be sure to pack a few.
Let them pack their stuff: Give each kid a small backpack and get them to pack their favorite things for the journey. Tell them they're responsible for getting their bags scanned. This will get them excited.
Make it fun: Long security lines and the stern officers can alarm kids into throwing a tantrum. Prevent this by telling them it's all part of a 'secret mission' just like in the movies.
Pre-board if possible: This will help you settle your kids in before people rush in, nudging and stamping everyone in the way. Spare them that horror.
Breastfeed before flying: If you have an infant, breastfeed or give the baby a bottle. The sucking action will work against air pressure, even as the familiar action calms the child.
Carry food on the plane: Carry simple dry food, or several packs of different cereal. If your kids are not able to eat the airline food, ask for some milk and offer them cereal.
Dress them in comfortable clothes: Make sure their clothing is appropriate for the weather and the cold on the plane. Dress them in layers so that they can take things off if they feel too hot.
Dress them in TSA-friendly attire: If you're flying with your kids, dress them in easy to take off jackets and shoes. Be sure to follow the no-metal rule and prevent a potential tantrum.
Carry first aid: Kids can hurt themselves, develop ear pain and fever and so on. Carry a thermometer, some medicines, motion sickness relief bands and EarPlanes ear plugs for prevention and relief.
Pack extra clothes: If you're flying, keep some extra clothes for each kid in your carry-on, if they spill their drinks, throw up or even mess in their clothes.
Carry diapers and wet wipes: Know your child's schedule and expect diaper changes. Keep a couple of diapers and wipes in your jacket pocket and some in your carry-on.
Make them chew gum during takeoff: This helps relieve the air pressure. If they refuse the gum, explain the reason.
Make them use the bathroom before the flight: This will prevent tantrums because they decide to use the bathroom just as the plane is taking off.

Author: Maskeen is a traveller and adventurer whose work is published widely on the web. Like her, you can enjoy amazing experiences via adrenalin.com.au.

Filed under: guest post, travel, travel planning, travel tips

Travel Guest Post: Common Traveling Mistakes

There may be times when you feel life has become too hectic and stressful. You may get frustrated of your monotonous work schedule, and feel like taking a break. A long vacation to a new place helps you take a break and rejuvenate. You may choose to travel with your family or friends, and sometimes even alone to relax your mind and have a good time.

This rejuvenating break from your hectic schedule may turn into a disappointing experience, if you make some common mistakes made by tourists. It is better to avoid making the following mistakes and evade problems that make your holiday a money-wasting, frustrating experience:

1. Having An Impractical Itinerary

This is a common practice prevalent in most of the tourists. They aim to see an entire country, in the very first visit. Being over-ambitious with very high expectations may lead to disappointments. Your itinerary must be practical and you must have a flexible approach.

2.Not Preparing A Budget

Preparing a traveling budget in advance can save you from unnecessary costs. It can help you to explore the new place in a better way without burning a huge hole in your pocket. You must always prepare your traveling budget and make sure that you do not go overboard.



3. Over Packing

Your holiday will be much more comfortable with less stuff to carry. Packing unnecessary items may increase your load, and you can always buy some of the items at the destination. Carrying extra baggage may hamper your fun.

4.Not Double Checking Important Documents

You may be in a hurry and forget to double-check your important documents. Any carelessness with the documents can cause major problems for you. It is recommended that you get extra copies of your important documents.

5. Overlooking Time Zones While Booking Trip

You must take the different time zones into consideration, while booking your trip. It is important to plan your trip according to these time zones. You must also consider the possibility of a jet lag.

6. Not Doing Research Before The Visit

You must do at least some research about the new destination, before visiting it. It is imperative for you to have some essential information about the country you are visiting. People who skip the research work, are more likely to face trouble while traveling.

7.Over Dependence On Guide Books

It is unwise to completely rely on the guidebooks while traveling. You must enhance your knowledge about the place by interacting with other travelers, and the people at that destination. Like-wise, relying on the help of a single person is not advisable.

8.Carrying Lot Of Cash And Valuables

Carrying extra cash is not advisable while traveling. You must not exchange all your money into the other currency beforehand. It is better to change just a small amount of money, which is enough to sustain you, till you reach an ATM. Ensure that you are not carrying flashy valuables that may tempt the pickpockets.

9.Being Culturally Insensitive

Each country has a different culture, and you must not be offensive for the culture of your destination. It is advisable to understand and absorb the culture, and respect it. Insensitivity towards the culture is not likely to be tolerated by the locals of that country.

10.Ignoring Safety

You must be very observant and alert at all times, while traveling. It is especially important for girls to dress conservatively, and not attract unnecessary attention. You must not ignore the advice of locals, and be cautious about your safety.

Author: Vishal Mahajan writes for fun and can be found on holiday. He loves rented furnished apartments from http://www.torontosuites.com/.

Filed under: guest post, travel, travel planning, travel tips

Travel Guest Post: 3 Must See US National Parks

With a jet setting lifestyle, it can be easy to overlook some of the most beautiful and engaging explorations you can do right in your own backyard so to speak. When you are constantly planning elaborate and extended trips to new and exciting countries and cultures, it can be easy to forget the wonder and excitement right in your own country. Growing up in the States, many of us dream of backpacking through Western Europe, traveling through Moscow, lounging on a beach in Australia, and wandering through South America. Of course, these trips are wonderful vacation destinations and can offer extremely enriching experiences. There's no doubt wrapping yourself into a new and unfamiliar situation and culture is important, but don't forget about your own world and surroundings. The U.S. has some of the most beautiful and dynamic parks in the world. These are three must-do visits right in your own backyard.

 

Olympic National Park

Located on the northern most coastline in Washington State, Olympic National Park is one of the most diverse and beautiful parks in the United States. The park includes four very distinct different regions, including the Pacific coastline, the alpine areas, the temperate rainforests of the west, and the dry forests of the east side of the park. With so many geological zones and climates, visiting Olympic Park can offer something to almost anyone. The park itself is unique in that it has not really been made into a tourist attraction at this point. There are roads in and around the park, but none that actually go very deep into the park's depths. This means that travelers must hike and camp to really see the park's beauty and uniqueness. Take the time to explore the mountains, forests, coast, and wildlife by foot.

 

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is most popular and well-known parks in the United States. This means that the park has very much become the destination spot for tourists and travelers. But before you write it off for being too mainstream, Yellowstone is one of the most popular parks for a reason. Located in Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho, Yellowstone was America's first national park and is home to some of the most extraordinary thermal activity in the world. With many geysers and hot springs, endless wildlife, beautiful meadows, tumbling waterfalls, and towering peaks, Yellowstone is a definite must-see if you live anywhere in the U.S. or elsewhere.

 

Acadia National Park

Located in Maine, Acadia National Park is definitely one of the lesser known National Parks in the United States. The park consists primarily of Mount Desert Island and several other associated smaller islands. Unlike the more well-known mountain parks like Glacier, the Rocky Mountains, and the Grand Tetons, Acadia offers a much different wildlife and terrain experience for explorers and travelers. Situated along the Atlantic coastline, Acadia provides wonderful shoreline views, sandy beaches, woodland adventures, lakes, valleys, and more. The wildlife throughout the park is diverse with both woodland life and marine animals found throughout the different terrain. Acadia National Park was the first national part to be established East of the Mississippi and is absolutely a visit to be made by the adventurous.

Author: This is a guest post by Nadia Jones who blogs at accredited online colleges about education, college, student, teacher, money-saving, movie related topics. You can reach her at nadia.jones5 @ gmail.com.

Filed under: adventure, guest post, outdoors, travel, travel planning, travel tips Tagged: national parks, olympic national park, parks, travel

Travel Post: Automatic Gold Passport Platinum Status with Visa Signature

Visa Signature® cardholders can elevate their stay by registering their card by May 11, 2012 to receive trial Platinum status for 90 days. Hyatt Gold Passport Platinum status features:

•       Preferred rooms based on availability

•       Complimentary in-room internet

•       2PM late check-out upon request

•       Expedited check-in

•       15% point bonus

Take advantage of this offer at http://visasignature.hyatt.com. In addition to this offer, Visa Signature cardholders have access to a number of other travel benefits including a complimentary concierge, auto rental coverage and more.

Filed under: lifestyle, travel tips Tagged: hyatt, visa, visa signature

Travel Guest Post: Top 5 Treks of Ladakh

Leh-Ladakh is a paradise and a haunt for trekkers. Ladakhi's are friendly, warm and affectionate people, willing to go out of their way to make your trekking in Ladakh experience a unique one. The scenery at Ladakh is captivating and mind-blowing to say the least. And if you opt for homestays, you get to learn so much about the culture and traditions of the Ladakhi's around. The barren rugged terrains, the monasteries and the colorful streets of Ladakh filled with hovering prayer flags, doe eyes citizens and children walking, talking, sipping tea, smoking pipes, going on their daily businesses etc keeps you wondering how simple lives can be magnificent.  Hiking and trekking here is famous and you don't have to be an expert on some of the trails. All you need to have is a lot of spirit within to absorb everything around, right from the thick glaciers to the snow-capped peaks, barren lands to a frozen river, and the vast open spaces where shepherds take their flock to graze.

Here are my top 5 favorite trekking trails:

The famous Markha Valley trail

One of the most famous trekking trails in Ladakh, the Markha Valley route is the most sought after. I have been on this trail in June last year and enjoyed a homestays as well. The trek route is beautiful and passes through the scenic valleys, colorful village hamlets, broad canyons and even pristine alpine rolling grasslands too. It took me around a week to complete this whole trekking experience, and at times with my newly made friends I went biking as well. You need to carry a sleeping bag, so that you have something to sleep in when camping around. The trek started out at Stok which is a difficult pass, or you could even start at Spituk and even at Chilling as well. The most fascinating part of being on this trek was climbing uphill to Gongmaru La and Nimaling, all the way from Markha. Spend the night at Nimaling if you can, enjoy the mystic evening air that surrounds and then hike to the peaks and ridges which provide you with breathtaking scenes that would pull the ground from beneath your feet.

The amazing Lamayuru to Chilling also known as the "Hidden Valley Trek"

You need to have around a week in hand to go Ladakh trekking on this trail. You come to the Lamayuru monastery, which is famous and one of the oldest around. One doesn't have to slog it out on this trek, but carry a sleeping bag if you need to go camping. I carried along with me some food, because there are not many dhabas along the way to serve you food and snacks, or even tea. You start out at Hinju and go to Sumdha Chenmo passing through the well-known Kungski La. Then you go to Sumdha Chenmo up to Chilling which passes through Dungdungchen La. These climbs are worth every ounce of energy in you. The scene at Dungdungchen La is picturesque with flapping colorful prayer flags all over the place. This is also a place famous for rafting in Ladakh during the summer months.

The amazing trekking trail from Spituk to Stok

For those of you who have lesser time in hand for Ladakh trekking expeditions, this one maybe for you. You can go camping at Rumbak or choose to have homestays options as well. While I was on this trek, I came across Stok La which gave me a panoramic view of the rugged terrains and picturesque landscapes below. This trekking trail is for those who have two to three days in hand. From Rumbak you would follow the trail down. At Spituk the trail begins, and if you are hungry or need tea, there are many dhabas along the way to give you a piping treat. What I got to see on this trek were the wonderful mountains and the beautiful village, Rumbak. The people are very friendly over here and would always pass warm greetings and wishes when they bump into you at the tea stalls around.

Another short but exciting Ladakh trekking experience from Liker to Tingmosgam

This trekking trail is also known as the "Sham Valley" and some even call it the "Baby Trek as well. This route is perfect for amateurs and there are no tough terrains and passes to encounter on the way here. If you plan to go camping here, this spot would be perfect for you and your friends. There are plenty of lodges on the way to stay and food is in abundance to be found and had as well. But don't expect any high snow capped mountains on this route, what you would find here are plenty of hamlets, colorful villages and the pristine stupas of monasteries. To complete this trek have around two to four days in hand.

 

The Lamayuru to Darcha Ladakh trekking trail

Fabulous is the word I would associate this trekking trail with, and especially if you prefer homestays over camping or lodging at the hotels nearby. You can expect to go through passes which are steep and the trek can be tough and strenuous for some, so be active and well ready for the walk ahead. The Padum Darcha route would present you with a high pass, and it would take two nights to move across this pass. Have around three weeks in hand to enjoy this trekking trail and don't forget to carry your sleeping bag. I met explored scenery along this trekking trail, right from the narrowest of gorges to the highest of all mountain passes along the way. The villages I passed through were mystical and beautiful, especially the dotting monasteries in all their glory. People give homestays options here and the Ladakhi's are very affectionate with their hospitality ways.

So if you are planning on the trekking in Ladakh experience, make sure you follow each place mentioned here because Ladakh Trip will be incomplete without visiting these places.

 

Filed under: travel

Travel Guest Post: 10 of Britain's Best Free Attractions

Britain is a great place to visit even if you are on a budget. Museums, nature, historical sites and cultural events are often free to the public. It is simply a matter of deciding what type of holiday you wish to have and then choosing places to go accordingly. Here are 10 of Britain's best free attractions for you to enjoy!

The British Museum

The British Museum in London is one of the world's largest historical museums. Here you can find items that help describe the history of mankind from the beginning until modern times.

Modern Art Oxford

Modern Art Oxford is another museum that cannot be missed. This museum showcases some of the finest contemporary and modern art in the world. You can expect to see new things that have not been done before, as well as experience family events and guest lectures.

Urban Parks

The urban parks of the United Kingdom are not to be missed. You can find these in many of the large cities in the area. London has many large green areas, as does Manchester. Edinburgh has a green park that sits directly near Edinburgh Castle, which provides a breathtaking view. Simply look at a city map to explore the best urban parks in the U.K.

The Coast

The British coast is another natural place that provides a wealth of free activities for individuals and families. There are many beaches that you can visit for exploring, people watching and swimming during warmer months. There is also hiking, wildlife and boating that takes place on these glorious beaches.

Camping

Camping in Scotland is an activity that is free for everyone on open land. You can simply pitch a tent on any open access land free of charge. Enjoy the beauty of Scotland from the privacy of your very own camp area.

Canals & Waterways

The U.K. has a large system of canals and waterways that are free to the public for walking, boating and cycling. There are over 2200 miles of these all over the region. Simply grab a map and begin the search for the closest canals or waterways to you. This is a good way to see some of the historical design of the waterways while enjoying the outdoors and the renovations that have recently occurred.

Churches & Cathedrals

There are historic churches and churchyards located in many of the small towns in the U.K. that are completely free to enter and visit at any time. Not only can you delight in the treasures of a small town, you can also explore small churches that are not overcrowded by masses of tourists. This is much preferred to waiting in long lines and paying a lot of money to see a site in London.

Castlerigg Stone Circle

The Castlerigg Stone Circle in Keswick provides a glimpse of stone structures that were built over 5000 years ago. These mysterious stone structures were placed in a circle by ancient people. Nearby is the views to Skiddaw, Blencathra and Lonscale Fell, which are absolutely breathtaking.

ArtsFest Birmingham

If you are interested in a festival, the ArtsFest Birmingham might be the place to go. This large free festival has performances, lectures, art exhibits and much more for visitors to explore.

Another exciting and free celebration is the Chinese New Year, which takes place each year in many towns in the U.K. You can find parades, performances and large celebrations during this time of the year.

Other Ideas

We're only just scratching the surface with these ideas. The U.K. is packed with free things to do, so here's some more for your inspiration!

FinanceChoices.co.uk

101 Free Things to do in Britain

50 Free Things to do in the United Kingdom

Author: Andy Boyd

Filed under: travel Tagged: british museum, Castlerigg Stone Circle, great britain, london, oxford, travel, UK

Travel Guest Post: Top 5 Golf Courses in Tenerife

Tenerife and golf fit like a glove (excuse the pun), the year-round warm weather and long hours of sunshine give the ideal environment to practice your swing. The beautiful volcanic landscape and impressive Mount Teide give a stunning back drop to the courses designed by world-famous golf architects such as Dave Thomas, Seve Ballesteros and Pepe Gancedo.

 

Golf del Sur

The impressive course at Golf del Sur has hosted the Tenerife Open, the PGA European Tour. There are some tricky holes here including some par four and five shots, a great challenge for experienced golfers. To practice before your round there is a practice bunker, chipping green and putting greens. The club house is built in traditional Canarian style and includes two restaurants, a bar terrace and two equipment shops so everything you need is on site.

Look out for: Black sand bunkers, ravines and palm trees

Length: 18 holes, Par 72 or 9 holes, Par 33

Where to stay: If you are planning a golfing holiday or just fitting in a round of golf to your family holiday, it is recommended to hire a car as there is not much else to do around Golf del Sur. Stay in the nearby resorts of Playa de las Americas or Los Cristianos for easy access to the course.

 

Centro de Golf los Palos

Surrounded by banana trees, this course is perfect for beginners or those who don't have time to fit in a whole round. Relaxed individual or group lessons are available in various languages and there is also a children's play area to entertain the little ones whilst you are practicing.

Look out for: Lakes and streams on this 9-hole course.

Length: 9 holes, Par 27

Where to stay: The Agua Mar Apartments in Los Cristianos are only a short drive or bus ride away.

 

Buenavista Golf

If you are on holiday with people who may not appreciate golf in the same way you do, then head to this stunning course. With its modern club house with views over the course, Atlantic Ocean, the Teno Park, and a large outside terrace, this course is perfect for enjoying the sun as well as perfecting your swing.

Look out for: Waterfalls and lakes provide unusual obstacles

Length: 18 holes, Par 72

Where to stay: The Hotel Blue Sea Puerto Resort is a short drive along the coast in Puerto de la Cruz and within easy reach of the beach and town centre. The drive from here to the golf course is a stunning coastal route.

 

Golf Costa Adeje

Camouflaged perfectly into the natural surroundings, this beautiful course has been built on an old banana plantation and the old stone walls break up the terraces. The last 9-holes make up the Los Lagos course, a shorter, more technical course with wonderful sea views.

Look out for: The specialist lift that takes you and your buggy down to the driving range.

Length: 18 holes, Par 72 or 9 holes, Par 33

Where to stay: The Costa Adeje Gran Hotel is close to the golf course and offers a range of other facilities including pools, a gym and children's club – perfect for family holidays.

 

Amarilla Golf

Bordering the sea, this course in the south of Tenerife has excellent views of the Atlantic Ocean. Here you will find a state of the art driving range, putting green, equestrian centre, tennis courts and a swimming pool. This is the perfect golf course for a family day out, with a club house restaurant and bar for refreshments throughout the day.

Look out for: The 5th hole – You have to drive the ball over the ocean waves to the next green.

Length: 18 holes, Par 71 or 9 holes, Par 27

Where to stay: The Hotel Dream Noelia Sur is a short distance away in Playa de las Americas and offers 4 star relaxation after a hard day on the green.

Author: Emma Louis Frost is a blogger for lowcoastholidays.com.

Filed under: adventure, europe, guest post, holiday, luxury, outdoors, spain, travel Tagged: Canary Islands, golf, spain