Kimberly Fisher's Blog, page 220

Travel Guest Post: Pirates of the Caribbean- Real Treasure Islands

Photo by ronsaunders47 on Flickr.com. Used under Creative Commons Licence

Blackbeard, Long John Silver and Jack Sparrow – just fanciful tales of the high seas concocted by over-imaginative minds, right? Well, while the era of swashbuckling pirates and buccaneers has been overstated and exaggerated, there is, like many myths, a kernel of truth hidden inside these romantic stories. And even today as treasure hunters continue to search for buried riches, shipwrecks and the elusive X that marks the spot. Here is a look at five real treasure islands, each full of secrets, mysteries and a history of piracy.

St Kitts

Though first discovered by the great explorer Christopher Columbus, the Leeward Island of St Kitts is more famous for its swashbuckling past. It was in the late 17th century that the French hired the infamous pirate Captain Kidd to attack the island so that the British could be driven out. Yet, in true pirate fashion, Kidd double-crossed the French, attacking and stealing one of their naval galleons. St Kitts is also said to be home to the buried loot of another pirate, a former merchant captain named Owen Lloyd. Lloyd was alleged to have stolen 52 chests of silver from the Spanish, and to have buried them on many nearby islands. While most of the silver was eventually recovered, this has not stopped treasure hunters from speculating that some of the riches may still be stored underground somewhere on the island. If you are thinking about visiting St Kitts as part of your adventure camp, maybe you should consider bringing along a metal detector!

Gardiner's Island, New York

They say X marks the spot, but on this island there is a handy plaque to help you out. Yes, while the buried treasure is long gone, the site where Captain Kidd once hid his stolen booty can be seen to this day on Gardiner's Island, a small islet just off the coast of Long Island, New York. Shortly after Captain Kidd stole a vast amount of riches from an Armenian vessel in the Indian Ocean, capturing treasures such as satins, muslin, silk, gold and diamonds, he travelled to Gardiner's Island to surreptitiously store his cache of goods. Yet, shortly after, Kidd was arrested, and landowners on the island were forced to return the treasure to the British government. Found guilty, Kidd was executed in full public view, hung in chains on the banks of the River Thames. Shiver me timbers!

New Providence, Bahamas

Now a well-regarded cruise destination and home to Nassau, the capital city of the Bahamas, New Providence, has a much darker history, full of bootleggers and buccaneers, violent raids and brutal sea battles. For it was on New Providence where the terrible pirate Blackbeard once operated, waging war on passing ships and all who dared to cross him. In fact, so powerful was Blackbeard during his stay here that he was even proclaimed to be magistrate of the island, instituting his very own justice system based on the principles of piracy i.e. anything was up for grabs. Even the Royal British Governor, who expelled Blackbeard from the island in 1718, could not curtail his pervasive, pernicious influence, and the island suffered his wrath until, in a bloody encounter, Blackbeard was captured and decapitated, his head displayed for all to see on his ship's deck. Youth camp this isn't!

Martinique

Known as the most exclusive and glamorous resort in the Caribbean, Martinique nevertheless hides a few sorry secrets from the era of piracy. It is from this island that Bartholemew Roberts, a violent Welsh pirate, led his band of men to spread terror across the seven seas. When the governor of the island put a price on Roberts' head, the cunning pirate lured him into a trap, and promptly hung the governor on board his very own ship. Ancient legend also has it that Roberts left valuable treasure on Martinique, and to this day the isle is marked by smuggler's coves and half-hidden beaches that evoke the buccaneering spirit.

Author: John is an adventure camp enthusiast, amateur pirate and world-wide treasure hunter.

 

Filed under: adventure, beach, travel

Travel Guest Post: 5 Great Cities for Sporting Fans

1.   Melbourne

[The MCG: what a place for a sports fan to spend Boxing Day]

The initials MCG can only mean one thing to cricket fans: Melbourne Cricket Ground. This is the place where test matches are held in the sweltering heat of an Australian Boxing Day – an event which makes 100,000 fans interrupt their festive celebrations to attend one of the highlights of the world sporting calendar.

The MCG is also the place to head to if you want to experience a sport which is unique to Australia; the rough-and-tumble of an Australian Rules football game is really worth writing home about.

As is the Melbourne Cup, a horse racing event held during the first weekend in November which is one of the world's oldest and richest turf races; it's been held since 1861.

Even greater speeds can be seen at Melbourne's Albert Park race track during the annual Australian Grand Prix.

With the Australian Open tennis championships – one of the world's four biggest tennis tournaments – also being held in Melbourne, the city can arguably claim to be the best sporting city in the world.

2.  London

[Wimbledon Centre Court: now comes with a roof]

The 2012 Olympics in London won't really put London on the sporting map; it's always been regarded as one of the world's sporting capitals.

This is partly due to Wembley Stadium, on whose sacred turf World Cup finals and world title boxing matches have been staged. Then there is the equally impressive Twickenham – rugby union's version of Wembley.

London also boasts the All England Club, which is rather better known as Wimbledon during the two weeks in midsummer when it hosts the world's most famous tennis tournament.

Just like Wembley, Wimbledon and Twickenham, Lords is a place of pilgrimage for sports fans from all over the world – it's the headquarters of world cricket.

3.  New York

[The Seventh Avenue entrance to Madison Square Garden in New York]

Madison Square Garden is one of many sporting meccas which make the Big Apple a delicious prospect for sporting tourists; this indoor multi-purpose arena is the place where the boxing 'fight of the century' between Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier took place in 1971.

Today, the Garden is host to legends of basketball the New York Knicks and legends of ice hockey the New York Rangers. Located in midtown Manhattan; the Garden is the perfect sporting arena for a night out. There a host of near-by bars to visit for pre or post-game tipples.

Over in Queens, there is Flushing Meadows, home to the US Open tennis tournament each August; Queens is the place which baseball's New York Mets call home. The Mets' rivals the Yankees also attract incredible support; they will always be associated with the Bronx.

All this and there's also American football teams the New York Giants and the New York Jets; sporting 'franchises' which share the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.

4.  Paris

[Stade de France]

Paris in spring is the ideal place for rugby fans who want to see the French rugby team display their flair with a rugby ball at the Stade de France in the Paris suburb of Saint Denis. Seeing a Gallic rooster, the French national symbol, released on to the pitch before a game is one of sport's great traditions.

The stadium also hosts the French football team – this is the place where France won the World Cup in 1998 in front of 80,000 lucky spectators.

Every May, tennis fever grips Paris each May as the French Open is played on the red clay of the Roland Garros tennis courts in the Bois de Boulogne. The tournament attracts some of the most stylishly dressed and discerning tennis fans in the world.

5.  Dubai

[Action at a night race at the Dubai World Cup. Picture by Arne Bevaart]

The past decade has seen this city attract some of the world's biggest sports teams, stars and events; lured by the warm weather and promise of prize money. The city hosts two annual tennis tournaments, two annual golf tournaments, the Dubai World Cup thoroughbred horse race and the Dubai sevens rugby tournament.

And the city still can't quench its appetite for sport – it has expressed an interest in staging the 2024 Olympics.

There's no getting away from the fact that Dubai is the world's fastest up-and-coming sporting city; London, New York, Paris and Melbourne should watch their backs!

Author: James Christie writes for business directory , Thomson Local; the perfect place to find a travel agent to help you book your next city break.

 

 

Filed under: adventure, australia, dubai, elite, europe, guest post, london, travel, travel planning Tagged: dubai, london, melbourne, paris, sporting events, sports

Travel Guest Post: Surfing in Barcelona

When it comes to planning a vacation, the most of the people is looking for some exotic destinations and a place where they can enjoy the sun and the beach, even during the winter. This want is greater for those who like water sports at sea, such as surfing.  If you enjoy the waves, you probably already know that Barcelona is a very popular place for surfing and not only in the city but also in the surroundings. The best places for surfing in one of the most visited cities in Europe are:

Barceloneta: This central beach of the city of Barcelona you can surf from time to time, when the wind comes, you can find groups of surfers waiting for a wave. The best time to surf in Barceloneta is between October and March, but you can get lucky on a summer day.

Bogatell: Located near Barceloneta, in the heart of downtown Barcelona, it shares the same characteristics.

Sitges: One of the best surfing beaches near Barcelona is located directly across from the cemetery of Sitges. The wave does not break too hard, but allows surfers to enjoy good surf sessions.

Montgat: this beach you can enjoy surfing without the crowds. You can reach Montgat RENFE commuter train, with stations and Montgat Montgat Nord.

Vilassar: Another of the beaches that you can easily access the RENFE commuter train. These waves are not suitable for beginners, and even with experience, if there is a crosswind, you cannot surf.

Masnou: In this beach you will find long waves, provided the wind is blowing strongly towards East or Northeast. Note that the days of good waves can be very crowded and they go down to this beach you have to do it through a rocky path that can be dangerous.

Premia: On this beach there are several waves suitable for surfing, but has recently started to be less visited.

Ginesta Port: If you like adventures, you can enjoy a surf session quite fun at this beach. Note that this beach is very exposed to wind.

Garraf: If you are lucky, you can find good waves in this small beach.

Castelldefels: If instead of surfing, kite surfing rather practice, you can take the long beach of Castelldefels. However, taking into consideration that kite surfing is prohibited on this beach between June 1 and September 30.

These are the 10 best beaches for surfing in Barcelona that we recommend. If you come to Barcelona, you'll surely be interested to find accommodation near the beach, and if so, you're in luck, because in Barcelona we offer accommodation near the beach through Barcelona rentals and property for sale in Barcelona.

Author: This article was written by Alina Bordeianu, a travel writer for Apartime.

Filed under: adventure, beach, guest post, spain

Travel Guest Post: Spend Your Holidays in Norfolk

Going on holiday is a treasured moment for everyone. It offers the chance to spend some quality time as a family and get away from the daily grind of work and escape from the worries of home. It also provides with memories to last a lifetime. For the majority of people, the opportunity for a holiday comes around only once each year and it is important to choose a destination that is going to offer you a rewarding experience. A destination must be able to combine relaxation, culture, fun and picturesque surroundings. Of course, finding such a place may prove to be a tough task as such a diverse mix is fairly rare to find. Norfolk is one destination that can claim to give all the essential holiday requirements and best of all it is located right in the UK. Holidays in Norfolk offer something for all the family and will enchant and delight in equal measure.

The Norfolk Broads

Almost everyone has heard of the Norfolk Broads and it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the UK, attracting over two million people each year to its 125 miles of navigable waterways. If you are someone who has yet to experience what the Broads have to offer, then waste no time arranging a visit. Holidays in Norfolk and the Broads in-particular offer something different every day. There are many ways in which the vast area can be explored, combining land and water brilliantly, walking and cycling are very popular with designated routes to enjoy; however, it is the boats that give the Broads its charm. Sailing, motor-boating and canoeing have been an important part of the Broads since the end of the 19th century and continue to offer a magical experience to anyone taking the water. The county is internationally renowned for its wildlife environment and is home to many a rare bird, making it the location of choice for bird-watchers from across the globe.

Holidays in Norfolk are also unique as they give visitors the chance to hire a boat which will be a home during your stay. Luxury boats can cater for up to 10 people, with everything needed for the perfect self-catering holiday. Staying on a boat presents the best way to sample the of Norfolk and take in some of the lesser seen areas of the county. It also gives freedom that many other holidays cannot, allowing you to control your own boat and stop off anytime and when you choose to sample some traditional pubs offering local ale and home-cooked food.

The city of Norwich is the central part of the county offering an abundance of historical attractions, culture, modern shopping and vibrant nightlife, for those who wish to escape the water and open countryside, a visit to the city is definitely recommended.When holidays in Norfolk can offer this much diversity and enjoyment, there is no need to look beyond East Anglia for you summer vacation.

Author: Tiff Patel works for Richardsons Boating Holidays, a company that owns the largest fleet of cruisers on the Norfolk Broads.

Filed under: guest post, holiday, UK Tagged: norfolk, UK, vacation

Travel Guest Post: Top 7 French Riviera Holiday Locations

As a tourist, you can visit the French Riviera for two distinct experiences. You can experience the glamorous lifestyle of celebrities in bustling towns like Monaco, Cannes and Nice. On the flip side, quieter towns like Antibes and Vence allow you to enjoy the scenic beauty and romantic side of the Riviera. Here are some of the best holiday destinations in the French Riviera from both sides of the spectrum.

Antibes

Located between Cannes and Nice, Antibes is a delightful town with an old world charm. Lined by glorious golden beaches like Plage de la Salis and Plage de la Gravette, Antibes is most known for its extensive Picasso collection. Housing a wide collection of sketches, ceramics and paintings by the Cubist revolutionary, Antibes is the perfect destination to enjoy a lazy vacation.

Cannes

Possibly the most popular city in the French Riviera, Cannes is known for its celebrity spotting, refreshing Mediterranean weather and large number of sunny golden beaches. Plage de la Croisette is a popular sunbathing spot and is divided into multiple sections of public and private beaches. Apart from plush suites and resorts, luxury villa rentals are a popular form of holiday accommodation in Cannes.

  Eze Village

This medieval town is the high roller's dream. Home to exotic perfume outlets, high fashion boutiques and luxurious hotels, Eze Village boasts a spectacular view of the Mediterranean that few other towns can match. The hills surrounding the village are ideal picnic spots and on a clear day, you can see as far as Corsica.

Monaco

 An epitome of fashion and glamour, Monaco is a favourite among the rich and the famous. The Monte Carlo Beach enjoys an iconic status as tourists often spot the biggest movie stars, models, and other celebrities. Home to lavish hotels, luxury villa rentals and exciting experiences, Monaco offers unique holidays, combining glamour with a dash of flawless natural beauty.

  Nice

 Nice is one of the most popular stops on a typical French Riviera tour as it is home to several attractions and offers a rich cultural experience. Nice is home to scores of public and private beaches. From affordable public beaches and hotels to private suites and luxury villa rentals, vacations in Nice are always, well – nice.

  St. Tropez

 Considered an equivalent of Mexico's Tijuana, St. Tropez is the veritable party destination of the otherwise peaceful French Riviera. With a spectrum of accommodation options, party destinations and attractions, St. Tropez is a favourite among honeymooning celebrities as well as regular tourists. Aside from nightclubs and luxurious hotels, St. Tropez is also famous for its many beaches. Visit the Plage de Tahiti, Plage de Pampellone or Plage Port Grimaud beaches to enjoy an exhilarating experience in St. Tropez.

  Villefranche-sur-Mer

Counted among the most romantic spots in the French Riviera, Villefranche is a small Mediterranean town offering a rich and intimate holiday experience. Villefranche is known for charming narrow cobbled streets, pebbly beaches and lively sights that keep tourists entertained. With a breathtaking view of the Mediterranean, the harbour in Villefranche is lined with fancy sailboats and yachts.

 Author: Andy Butler works for Burger Davis International Realty, a leading luxury villa rental specialist on the French Riviera. He enjoys photography, travel, blogging and spending time with his family. Follow Burger Davis on twitter @BurgerDavis

Filed under: beach, elite, france, guest post Tagged: france, french riviera, monaco, st. tropez

Beauty Guest Post: The Secret History of Tanning

In 2009, it was found that rates of malignant melanoma in the UK have quadrupled in the past 30 years. It is the most common form of cancer amongst my demographic – those aged 15-34 – and the World Health Organisation has reported that people who use tanning devices such as tanning beds before they reach 30, are 75% more likely to develop this skin cancer. The UK introduced the Sunbed Regulation Act in 2010, banning under-18s from using these tanning beds. But what I am intrigued with is our fascination with tanning, and what I found was the secret history of tanning.

The Situation… no pun intended

For the most part of the twenty-first century, we have looked to a plethora of celebrities as our definition of ultimate glamour and beauty. Alarmingly, our tanning models have included "inspirational" figures such as the Jersey Shore cast who have an infamous mantra of 'Gym, tan, laundry' to upkeep their regime. Electric towel warmer, tanning bed and free weights aside, I found during my research for this article that tanning for beauty purposes long pre-dates the trend for looking like a Jersey Shore cast member.

Historically, tanned skin = serfdom

A little extreme perhaps, but it is historically accurate to state that tanned skin was associated with the lower classes. These classes worked outdoors, thus their skin became darker and tougher. The upper classes, however, retained the pale skin associated with a life of luxury and indoor pursuits. They craved pallor so much, it was reported they used skin whiteners to highlight the effect.

The Industrial Revolution affected a major change

Urbanisation moved the proletariat indoors for both work and leisure, fact. In the UK, it was essential to stay indoors during the nineteenth century; pollution from industry had affected the environment, thus having a knock-on effect on health. It was around this time, researchers found exposure to the sun was actually good for your health and beneficial to fight ailments.

This wouldn't be a beauty post without Chanel

"I think she may have invented sunbathing. At that time, she invented everything." This famous quote was uttered by an aristocrat about the fashion legend Coco Chanel, when she caught the sun a little too much on holiday in 1923. Inadvertently, she started the fashion trend for tanning. At this point, tanning was not a viable option as it was the original age of austerity both pre-war and post-war. That said, a pre-cursor of spray tan seemed to be rubbing a meat extract like Bovril on your legs!

The Sixties wasn't just 'swinging' it was jet-setting

Mediterranean glamour came calling in the 1960s economic boom after the influx of colour television and film, after overseas travel became the must-do leisure activity, the economic climate in the Seventies and Eighties introduced us to fake bronzing methods such as self-tan and tanning beds.

Return of the Sun Seekers

The Nineties heralded a return to the package holiday culture and as a result a return to tanning. In a survey, 50% of British holiday makers said that returning from abroad with a tan is the most important reason for taking a vacation. The 'Noughties' presented the most dangerous trend as yet – the year-round tan attained by sunbeds – the emergence of so-called 'tanorexia'. In 2006, Britons spent £40m in pursuit of the year-round tan and alarmingly, half of the adult British population said they felt happier and healthier with a tan. I am a reformed tanning addict, formerly obsessed with achieving a year-round glow. At the end of the day, I would rather not be one of the estimated 300 000 skin cancer cases in 2020, beauty is not just skin deep.

Author: Our guest blogger is Leyla, a 25-year-old beauty blogger from the UK. Having lived in both London and Paris, she enjoys writing on beauty from an international standpoint. Tweet your thoughts about this article to @jetsetera and @DigitalLeyla.

Filed under: beauty Tagged: beauty, tanning

Travel Guest Post: Easter in Sorrento, Italy

In the Campania region, truly exceptional processions are held during Easter. This is a once in a lifetime experience from both a religious and cultural standpoint. Sorrento offers the most beautiful processions that more than often can touch the heart and soul of every visitor. If you are looking for a different place to spend Easter, Sorrento is definitely the perfect destination for you.

Sorrento is the stage of two different processions. The first procession was the "Addolorata procession" and occurs in the early hours of Friday, just before dawn arrives. All those who take part in this procession are hooded and dressed entirely in white. The Addolorata procession is a representation of the wandering Virgin Mary along the streets in search of the of her son Jesus.

The second procession is the procession of the dead Christ that takes place during the evening of Good Friday. Those who take part are again masked but dressed all in black in mourning. Choirs and music accompanies the procession, making it even more attractive.

If you also want to enjoy these really outstanding shows, among the oldest religious events of our country, choose a hotel with a sea view in Sorrento so you can also enjoy all the beauty that the area can offer you. With a hotel overlooking the sea in fact you can also have the chance to see exceptional and truly outstanding views that will never leave your heart. Sorrento hotels offer you the opportunity to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of Easter in the best way possible and discover all the secrets of one of the most beautiful areas of Italy offering a wide range of services, suitable for transforming an ordinary couple of nights stay into an experience rich in culture and relax, a magical experience truly unforgettable.

Author: Teresa D'Esposito

Filed under: guest post, italy, travel, travel planning Tagged: Easter, italy

Travel Guest Post: Travel Guide to NYC

New York City is one of the world's most famous travel destinations, partly thanks to its countless appearances in Hollywood films and TV shows, but also for its many cultural achievements. Visiting New York can be as captivating today as it was a century ago, with a mix of historical attractions and modern exhibits appealing to people of diverse ages and backgrounds.

Just walking around is one of the most enjoyable experiences in NYC, especially in the central districts that house some of its most famous parks and squares. Central Park is one of the most famous urban parks in the world, and a great place for walking or cycling at all times of the year, and for experiencing New York's four seasons. Times Square can be considered another essential destination, and not only at New Year, as this bustling square is the heart of New York.

If you're eager to fill up your photo album, New York has plenty of significant monuments and famous landmarks to choose from. Some of the most popular include the Statue of Liberty, the World Trade Center Memorial and the Empire State Building, the latter of which also offers spectacular views of the city when you take a trip up to its viewing platforms. Another recommended view over New York City is from the observation platforms of 30 Rockefeller Plaza.

To seek out some culture on your city break to New York, one of the leading districts is Broadway, where you can find a mix of star-studded musicals and more serious theatrical shows. New York's music and concert halls can also offer a variety of experiences, including Carnegie Hall and Radio City Music Hall, while world-leading art galleries like the Metropolitan Museum of Art (commonly known as the Met) can also be the basis of a fascinating cultural afternoon in the city.

If you're visiting New York City with the family, you'll be spoiled for choice with child-friendly attractions, but if you're looking for something that adults can enjoy just as much, enduringly popular destinations like Madame Tussauds Wax Museum could be just the thing. You shouldn't visit New York without sampling some of its famous food and drink either, including putting its legendary pizzas to the test – especially if you've eaten pizza in Chicago for comparison. New York City is known as the city that never sleeps, which means you'll never be stuck for entertainment after the sun goes down.

Author: Jamie Monteath

Filed under: guest post, new york, travel

Travel Guest Post: 7 Surprises You May Encounter at a Luxury Hotel

Luxury hotels are known for exceptional service, amazing food, dazzling entertainment, beautiful rooms and breathtaking locations. Most people who often stay at luxury hotels enjoy these features time and time again. Eventually these luxuries can begin to feel commonplace. However, certain luxury hotels also have other, more unique amenities to offer. In many cases these services are not promoted, but if you know they exist, you could find your next hotel stay enhanced by a surprising new experience.

For example, the Alila Luang Prabang hotel in Laos offers its visitors transportation via a vintage Mercedes. This is a one-of-a-kind classic automobile that has been modified to accommodate more passengers, glass stands for drinking champagne, a radio and a television set. It is safe to say that everything but the outside is modern about this old, but beautifully updated vehicle.

Thistle Hotels has invented a "Lazy Sundays" package for those who are not morning people. This means that for people who have had a hard week of early mornings, Sunday can truly be a day of rest. This unique amenity is designed to make your Sunday morning leisurely, enjoyable and slow, with breakfast in bed, morning and early afternoon movies and a 6 pm checkout time.

For something truly unique, try a paragliding arrival to the Six Senses Hideaway at Zighy Bay in Oman. Visitors to this hotel have the option of arriving from the airport via air, water or land. If you are not interested in paragliding onto the hotel property, you have access to either speedboats or jeeps ready to take you to your destination with style. Either way, you will get to see the surrounding landscape in a unique and personalized fashion before arriving at your rooms.

Most luxury hotels try to accommodate every type of guest that may walk through their doors. At the Epic Hotel in Miami, this includes even those who are unusually tall. These people have special rooms designed just for them. Higher ceilings, longer beds, and bigger bathtubs are just a few of the unique amenities in this hotel's "tall rooms."

In honor of the Texas Rangers' trip to the World Series, the Ritz-Carlton in Dallas announced a broad choice of baseball amenities at their location. They set up "baseball concierges" exclusively to answer questions about baseball and the Series. They also trained their regular staff extensively on baseball trivia and related information to prepare them to assist the crowds of visitors to the city for the World Series.

The Quincy Hotel in Singapore offers a variety of unique amenities free of charge to its guests. If you visit, you will be picked up from the airport in your own personal limousine with free WiFi internet. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are all included in your stay, as are complimentary cocktails and other drinks, such as unique cocktails. Complimentary laundry service is also provided by hotel staff.

Sushi aficionados will not want to miss the sushi classes at the Miami Beach Hotel. Here, you can enjoy one-on-one courses on the history of sushi and on how various types of sushi are created. Of course, this is right before you enjoy you own delicious sushi dinner that you helped make yourself.

Running a luxury hotel sometimes seems like a continual process of inventing progressively more creative forms of pampering and hospitality. As you travel to different destinations, sample the options available at the world's finest luxury hotels — you might be surprised by what they have in store.

 Author: Post contributed by Kari Holton on behalf of Deals.org.uk



Filed under: elite, guest post, hotels, luxury, ritz carlton Tagged: hotels, laos, miami beach hotel, oman, ritz carlton dallas, thistle hotels

Travel Guest Post: A Girls' Guide to London aka Cakes & Cocktails

I would like to consider myself as an honoury girl in London. I've been to more bakeries than a pastry chef, drunk more cocktails than Carrie Bradshaw, and shaken my arse like a pro in every London club (plus I also take forever in the bathroom according to my long suffering girlfriends!). Join me on an exploration of cakes & cocktails below where I will show you Londons best kept secrets which are invaluable (unless you're a celebrity with access to the Movida guestlist to having a great time in this fabulous city. Now a word of warning girls. Although very well hidden these are the most fantastic places in London, and as such getting served can be like getting onto the tube in Waterloo station at Rush hour. You must fight for your way to the front! Hand bags at the ready, here we go…

The cakes

Princi – 135 Wardour Street, Soho, London

This fantastic little Italian bakery is hugely popular in Soho and visiting the eatery you can see exactly why. Perfectly European there are all manner of accents and languages to be heard. The queue is somewhat chaotic, but can be solved with a fluttering of eyelashes directed at one of the cute waiters. The cakes are utterly delectible but have a tendency to dissapear in the blink of an eye. The portions are strictly Italian (I challenge anyone to eat two portions of the tiramisu in one sitting) and within a few weeks I've managed to devour my way through the entire menu. You may consider £4 expensive for a slice of cake but this is true value for money.

Enjoy with a great glass of Italian white wine.

Lola's Cupcakes – Selfridges 400 Oxford Street, London

OMG! If you've ever been to Selfridges you will know that they are the best department store in the whole of London and I honestly thought they couldn't do any better. Loaded with shopping I headed for the exit and stumbled upon what was to become an addiction. A bright array of cupcakes from the sublimely small to the fantastically large caught my glance and I swept along towards a little counter hidden away near the flower department to discover the secret. Lola's cupcakes greeted me in all their colourful beauty. The little bakery delivers to the two major stores in London; Selfridges and Harrods. The cupcakes come in a variety of flavours (as shown on the menu below) and are perfect to sit down with over a coffee either in store or as a naughty take out. When they next revise the oxford dictionary Lola's will be the definition of cupcake!

Simply the best.

The cocktails

The Experimental Cocktail Club – 13a Gerrard Street, Chinatown

Reminiscent of a truly suave speakeasy the Experimental Cocktail Club is a challenge to find, and is frequented by the full spectrum of Londoners. This is a very special special place to drink a cocktail. Being an opulent, frivolous, sophisticated, playful, french vintage drinking establishment the original started in Paris and has landed in the middle of Chinatown London and is one of our best kept secrets. One can expect to wonder through main Chinatown and notice a well dressed welcoming bouncer standing with a clip board in front of a somewhat tatty black door. From the lantern-lit main walk you will enter the utopia of cocktail bars, with lush décor and secrets in every corner, very fine drinks are served up with the requisite flair of a continental bar… pure poetry like only the French know how to deliver. The cocktails here are to die for. I'm certain that bar will serve you the finest Strawberry Daiquiri in the whole of London.

Cellar Door – 0 Aldwych, Covent Garden, London

Very rarely will you choose to walk down the hidden dark steps of a men's public toilet looking for a bit of risky fun. But if you love the avant garde then you must discover the risque bar entertaining you with great cocktails, drag queens and some old school snuff. Boasting what the bar describes as the sexiest toilets in London, be sure to lock the door after yourself unless you wish to show everyone else in the venue what you are up to! This is a bar you have to see to believe. The venue is tiny but heart warming. So has the uncanny ability to fill extremely fast, but the trick is to arrive nice and early (8pm) to secure a seat, and some popcorn before one of the nightly acts begin. The cocktails are to die for and are wonderfully themed. Words don't do the venue justice. Just go!

Well that's all from me today, but if you want to check out my London celebrity gossip pages check in on my celebrity London club news column.

Ps. Top tips for the girls who are visiting London for the first time.

1. Get an Oyster Card and a Tube map – The tube system here is a labyrinth.

2. Always carry flat shoes in your handbag – You don't want to end up heading home at 3am in heels. Ouch!

3.  Keep at least 40p with you in your purse at all times – Just in case you need to use the ladies loo.

4. Always be polite to the bouncer – He is the only thing that stands between you and your cocktail!

5. English guys are shy – Approach them, they may even buy you a drink.

Author: Daniel Cooper is from www.capitalalist.com.

 

Filed under: guest post, holiday, london Tagged: london guest list, party