Venezia Bergamo

Historic Highlights Between Venice and Bergamo

From glamorous churches to fascinating museums, a trip to Italy is like entering a magical time warp – presuming, of course, that pizza and pasta were just as delicious several centuries ago! Although every ambitious tourist wanders through the ancient ruins of Rome and the winding streets of Venice, it’s worth venturing off the beaten path to fully immerse yourself in the country’s rich history. If you’re a true history buff, why not wave goodbye to the masses of tourists and opt for a more authentically Italian experience in its smaller cities? On our route from Venice Marco Polo Airport

Santander

Santander Shore Excursions

The Spanish city of Santander lies 100km west of Bilbao on the Bay of Biscay in Cantabria. Its port has played a key role in the economy of the region for more than 2000 years thanks to its fishing and shipbuilding industries and as a trading post. Today it remains an important fishing port and welcomes frequent passenger ferry services operated by Brittany Ferries from Portsmouth and Plymouth in England. The volume of cruise ship traffic is very low at present more companies are beginning to add a day in Santander to their itineraries. The city has long been a

The Sweet and Savoury Sensations of San Sebastián

Up for a challenge? You got it: go ask 10 gourmands what the world’s food capital is. While this may sound like an easy question, it’s actually highly contested – and may even lead to a heated argument among foodies if you’re not careful. This squabble often revolves around cities like Bologna, Mendoza, New York and Tokyo. But while these usual contenders will always star in food lovers’ dreams, there’s one that’s often (and unfairly) overlooked: San Sebastián. Although some foodies may have a (literal) bone to pick with you if you bring up San Sebastián, this is probably because

Gibraltar

Gibraltar Shore Excursions

Located on the southern tip of Spain overlooking the shipping lanes between the Atlantic and Mediterranean Oceans is the British Overseas Territory of Gibraltar. Such strategic importance and the fact that this limestone rock is connected to mainland Spain by a narrow isthmus frequently provokes political disputes between the governments of the United Kingdom and Spain. The territory was permanently ceded to the British Crown by the Treaty of Utrecht in 1713 and its sovereignty is unlikely to change as long as the local people remains so fervently British in their allegiance. An overwhelming 98% of the population voted in

Must-Have Apps for the Savvy Traveller

Attention, smartphone users: let’s talk about how to revolutionise your travels with your technological gadgets. No, I’m not talking about making your friends envious by documenting your adventures on Snapchat and Instagram – I’m talking about apps that you’ve probably never heard of, but that’ll save you time, money, nerves… you name it. Thanks to Dealchecker’s handy infographic, your holidays will be easier, safer, cheaper and more fun than ever before. So what are you waiting for? Get downloading! Snap and Share Okay, so I was lying when I said that these apps were mainly useful, instead of envy-inducing among

gran canaria

Scope Out the Gems of Gran Canaria

Snagged a sunny holiday deal in Gran Canaria’s Puerto Rico? ¡Estupendo! Whether you’re ready for a snooze in the sand or for the ultimate shopping spree, you’ll find that rest and relaxation are right at your fingertips. But while there’s often nothing better than getting pampered in your hotel or plopping down in the sand, why not mix things up with a bit of sightseeing? If a change of scenery every now and then sounds like your kind of getaway, you chose wisely – it takes minimal effort to venture outside of Puerto Rico and explore Gran Canaria’s natural and

Palamós Shore Excursions

With origins dating back to the 13th century the town of Palamós on Spain’s Costa Brava has long been established as an important fishing port. To this day the prawns which are landed here – ‘Gambas de Palamós’ – are much sought after by the best restaurants along the coast. Cruise ship passengers visiting Palamós can either enjoy a relaxing day in port with the option to sample some of these local seafood specialities or may prefer to head out on one of a number of exciting shore excursions.   Port of Palamós As well as serving as a commercial

Paris

Beyond the Tourist Traps: An Alternative Guide to Paris

‘Paris, you are my happiness’ sang Edith Piaf back in 1949, and it’s clear a lot of people agree with her. The French capital invariably features in Top 10 lists of the world’s most visited destinations, and while Paris’s popularity is undoubtedly a reflection of its undeniable charms it can make visiting a trying experience at times. Are you desperate to ditch the crowds but not sure where to begin? Convinced that there are no ‘hidden gems’ left to discover? Think again. Take a minute or two to check out this assortment of left-field experiences before your next trip, and

Marbella

Make Merry Memories in Marbella

Looking for a getaway that promises sunshine, plenty of chances to relax and even more places to party? Basically, somewhere where you can let loose and forget the consequences? Marbella’s definitely the place to go then. With A-list clubs, sun-drenched beaches and awesome water sports, this Costa del Sol gem is the complete package.   Let Rip on the Water Find out who are the posers and who are the plain amateurs in the group with some rounds of cable skiing on the beautiful lake at Guadalmina Alta in San Pedro de Alcantara. You can either waterski, wakeboard or kneeboard

obergurgl

Snow Stopping Family Fun in Obergurgl!

The Austrian village of Obergurgl has a reputation as a great family ski resort for good reason: practically guaranteed snow and a range of winter sports activities for families to enjoy together. If you prefer the atmosphere and beauty of a traditional Alpine village to the monstrous purpose-built resorts, then Obergurgl in Austria’s Ötztal Valley is definitely for you. At 1,930m it is the highest village resort in Europe, and has a reputation for almost guaranteed snow – a reputation that has been strengthened in recent years by its lift links to the higher Hochgurgl with its 3,080m glacier. A

Innsbruck, Austria

Out and About with Kids in Innsbruck

Whether you come in winter to ski in Austria’s beautiful Tyrol region, or in the summer to enjoy the wealth of alpine activities, it’s well worth stopping off in Innsbruck to take in the sights of this pretty Austrian city. Known as the ‘capital of the Austrian Alps’, Innsbruck holds an important place in the country’s history, a fact that is illustrated by its historic castles and palaces as well as modern investments in stunning contemporary architecture. While beautiful buildings and a rich local history may charm you, there’s also plenty here to keep the kids entertained. My children will

Samöens

Grand Adventure in the Grand Massif: Family Fun in Samoëns

While most families are drawn to the beautiful, historic resort of Samoëns because of its position in France’s Grand Massif ski area, you’ll discover there is plenty more than skiing and snowboarding to challenge adventurous kids (and their parents!) here. The Grand Massif – with its resorts including Flaine, Les Carroz, Morillon, Sixt Fer à Cheval and, of course, Samoëns – sits at the heart of the Alps at 2,500 metres. With access to 256km of runs, Samoëns lies opposite the more famous Flaine in a north-facing position, meaning that snow (when it falls) tends to last pretty well here.

The Bonne Bouche of Belgium

You’ve had a bad day, you are curling up with a good book, or you are tackling a challenging task at work. While these scenarios seem to have nothing in common at first glance, they all share one thing: they’d be infinitely better with chocolate! As Gene Wilder once said, “there are two types of people in this world: people who love chocolate and liars”. So, let’s be honest: if you’re hoping to improve your day, enhance your riveting read or reward yourself for working hard, a chocolaty treat is the way to go. If you’re a true connoisseur, you’ll