Julietta Henderson

Bulgaria

Country Profile: Bulgaria

Introduction Overshadowed by the indomitable Balkan Mountains, with roots suggesting it as the oldest civilisation in Europe, Bulgaria is one of the most mysterious of all the Eastern European countries. From the delicate Renaissance beauty of Plovdiv and the storied medieval cliffside city of Veliko Tarnovo, to the vibrancy of the capital, Sofia, and the ancient secrets still undiscovered in the fertile landscape of the Valley of the Kings – for those who arrive with an open heart, Bulgaria is ready with a trove of culture, history and enduring mystery… What To Do One secret that is out are the

Andorra

Country Profile: Andorra

Introduction Tucked into the landscape of the majestic Pyrenees between Spain and France, the small but perfectly formed principality of Andorra is renowned for the unapologetic drama of its natural beauty. The superb ski resorts, breathtaking high-altitude scenery and labyrinthine network of hiking trails translate into a destination that wears its lovely heart well and truly on its sleeve. What to Do Andorra is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts, with skiing and hiking the main attractions for visitors that flock here throughout the year. In terms of skiing, the tiny nation has something to offer both beginners and those looking

Los Cristianos

What to Do in Los Cristianos With Teenagers

When it comes to holiday destinations, teenagers are probably the hardest demographic to please. Too old for paddling pools but too young for clubbing (hopefully!), it’s sometimes difficult to find a destination that has enough to not just show them a good time, but a really great time. Tenerife has always been a favourite place for families to head for a summer break, no matter what the age of the children, and it’s one of Spain’s most visited destinations. There’s no shortage of resorts from which to choose, but Los Cristianos, on the south coast, might just have the edge

Top 5 Best Surfing Spots in Ericeira

Forget the pipelines, bowls and barrels of Hawaii, because who’s got the time to fly halfway across the world for a few days of big wave action? If you’re a an avid surfer, or even if you’ve just been bitten with the big-swell bug, there’s somewhere much closer to home that might not have the glamour of Maui, Oahu or Kauai, but has just as much going for it. Say ‘aloha’ to Ericeira – although ‘ola’ may be more appropriate! Portugal is fast becoming known as home to the best surfing beaches in Europe, and Ericeira, on the western coast,

Prag

A Memorable Romantic Weekend in Prague

There’s no better reason for a weekend away than the pursuit of a little romance. And there’s nowhere better to chase that lovely feeling and catch a firm hold of it than in the beautiful city of Prague. Prague’s exquisite city skyline holds the secrets of centuries close to her lovely heart, but she’s more than happy to share with those who ask nicely. What to See and Do Prague is a city just made for romance, with a richly storied past and an ambience of old world charm. It’s also very accessible, with many of the iconic attractions (and

Sagres

4 Favourite Surfing Beaches in Sagres

Did somebody say “surf’s up”? Why yes, I think they did! Even though, if we’re nit-picking, the surf is always up somewhere in the world, this time of the year opens up some awesome opportunities to chase the waves around the southern European coastlines – and, for those in the know, you’ve might have guessed I’m talking in particular about Portugal. Renowned for some of the best waves in Europe, Portugal’s geography means that virtually its entire coastline has become a surfing mecca for both amateurs and seasoned pros. Everyone has their favourite place, but the beaches around Sagres, in

Cala Ratjada

Water Fun for Teens in Cala Ratjada

Majorca has long been a favourite family holiday destination with the Brits – and it’s not for nothing. It’s the perfect place to kick back on the beach, soak up the sun and let your kids do what kids do best – run rampant. I mean, enjoy themselves. Joking aside, the best thing about Majorca really is the number of safe, picture-perfect beaches from which to choose. Of course, you’ve heard it all before – “white sand, clear skies, crystal-clear turquoise ocean” – but it really is true, and it’s an outstanding place for a family break. Cala Ratjada, in

Zante

Ultimate Guide to an Unforgettable Mates’ Break in Zante

If you’re pretty happy with the format of your usual lads’ break – sun, surf, sand, beer, rinse and repeat – and love the idea of getting away to Greece, one place should be at the top of your list: the fun-loving island of Zakynthos, or Zante as it’s also known (and a bit easier to say!). Famous for its pumping nightlife and spectacular beaches, you’ll be able to get your fill of both on even a short break. Which is just as well because, let’s face it, it’s usually quality over quantity when it comes to a holiday with

Maspalomas

Fun for Teens in Maspalomas

As one of the best-known resorts on Gran Canaria, Maspalomas is renowned not only for its considerable natural beauty, but also for its family-friendliness. With a stunning 6km coastline, the dramatic dunes, wide beaches and inviting waters set the perfect scene for a laidback holiday in the sun – and there’s not much else to worry about except which side to tan next… If you’re travelling with teens, however, you’re going to need more than a day at the beach for a back-up plan if you want to keep the peace and achieve the Holy Grail of holiday contentment. You’re

Benidorm

5 Attractions Your Teens Will Love in Benidorm

While it’s well known for its hedonistic ‘Brits abroad’ hard drinking and dance culture, Benidorm is actually, first and foremost, a wonderfully safe family holiday destination. The extraordinary beaches are just the beginning (although, admittedly, it’s a pretty good beginning!), and are the perfect complement to the huge range of family-friendly attractions. Thrilling theme parks, good cheap eats, boat trips up the coast, great shopping and, yes, those big, beautiful beaches and all the fun that goes with them, makes this one of the most popular places on the Costa Blanca for families. Even if you’re travelling with notoriously hard-to-please

Lissabon

Surfin’ Safari: Top 5 Surf Spots Near Lisbon

When the unmistakable smell of salt and sea air causes your nose to start twitching, there’s only one thing to do: hang out the ‘gone surfin’ sign and… go surfing! Whether you’re a veteran of the swell or you’re just getting turned on to the thrill and freedom of the sport, there are few better places in Europe to get your toes on the nose for some big wave action than Portugal. While the southern Algarve region attracts some big name international competitions, so too does the rugged, rocky coastline north and south of the capital, Lisbon, which offers just

Lagos

Lagos – A Water Sports Paradise

If you thought Benidorm, Málaga and Ibiza were the only buzzwords worth knowing when it comes to a summer adrenaline break-out, get out that big old map of the world and move your pin just a little to the left. A little more. Now cross the border…into Portugal! To be specific, we’re talking about Lagos, in the beautiful western Algarve region of the country, and if you’re looking for non-stop thrills in, on and under the water, welcome to your next summer holiday! So what’s on the menu at this all-you-can-eat smorgasbord of water sports fun? Here comes a taster

Peniche

Surf’s Up! 5 Amazing Surf Spots Near Peniche

It’s time! Time to relocate your ski boots to the back of your wardrobe, dust off your summer kit and head to somewhere warm for a week of fun in the sun. And if you’re all fired up from a season of thrills on your snowboard or skis, what better way to keep the adrenaline pumping than by swapping the snow for the surf? Portugal is well known as a mecca for surfers, and nowhere more so than Peniche. This small fishing village is home to a massive serving of big wave action, with a wide swell window – including

Search

Categories