La Bisbal d’Empordà – aka La Bisbal – is a characterful town in Catalonia, approximately 30km to the south-east of Girona. This bustling town that lies between the market towns of Palafrugell and Palamos on the Costa Brava, is world-renowned for its pottery making heritage.
Perched at the top of a rocky limestone ridge with stone castle walls adjoining a sheer cliff face that drops to the River Guadalete below, Arcos de la Frontera is hailed as being one of Andalucía’s most dramatically positioned of its Pueblos Blancos – whitewashed villages.
Portuguese wine is amongst the most famous in the world with Portugal being the world’s seventh largest wine producer.
Steeped in historic and religious importance, Santiago de Compostela in the heart of Galicia is a truly beguiling town to visit all year round. This iconic town is most famous for being the destination of the pilgrimage route that’s been going for over a century along the Camino de Santiago.
A swimming pool can be the centre of many people’s holiday plans. Spending a leisurely week by the pool is all many of us want, however, it’s important to remember the dangers of water, especially if you plan to take children away with you.
Easter is approaching and many of us are making plans for the spring break. With the weather getting warmer, the nights lighter and the buds of spring blossoming, this time of year can be a great time to head abroad. Vintage Travel explores five reasons why Easter-time and a holiday overseas go hand in hand.
Experience Easter in different cultures
Like Christmas, Easter celebrations are unique to different nations and cultures. Travelling abroad during this time will enable you to experience another country’s unique festivities and traditions.
For example, in Spain, Easter is known as ‘Semana Santa’ – ‘Saint’s Week’ – during which the cities, towns and villages host their own reactions of the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ – a truly different Easter experience.
Mild weather without being overly hot
True, we can’t guarantee the weather will be great, but by late March and April, many European countries are warming up to an agreeable temperature. The climate at this time of year is certainly cooler than the intensity of the summer, which for many, is welcomed when travelling abroad.
Enjoy less crowds
Whilst Easter is a popular time to travel, as the weather isn’t guaranteed, many holiday destinations are considerably quieter compared to the height of the summer. Consequently, beaches are emptier, it’s easier to get a seat in a restaurant and attractions are less crowded.
Enjoy the beautiful springtime vistas
From the poppy-doused meadows of Andalucía to the lands of the Cote d’Azur carpeted in lavender, the natural world has woken from its winter slumber at Easter and is starting to blossom, flourish and thrive. Consequently, the picturesque landscapes much of Europe is blessed with, are especially beautiful at this time of year. Just remember to take your camera with you!
Recharge your batteries
Having got through the long slog of winter, heading abroad at this time of year, is perfect for recharging our batteries and keeping us going until our summer holiday!
October half term (before dull November sets in) is a great time to get a last minute dose of sun, peace, or entertainment! Flights and accommodation are likely to be cheaper, yet many destinations still have warmth, good swimming and plenty to do. If you want to sunbathe in reliable sunshine, explore, take the kids on an adventure, or soak up some culture on a budget, October half term makes economic sense. Let’s look at some possibilities in the Canary Islands, Crete, Portugal, Spain and Croatia…
Being jet lagged when we arrive at a new location can seriously hamper how we kick-start our holiday. Fortunately, there are steps we can take to help stave off dreaded jet lag and arrive at our holiday destination ready to explore and enjoy our new surroundings to the max.
Once upon a time in the not too distant past, we packed our suitcase and wondered whether we’d have access to a phone whilst on holiday. How times have changed; as today we have the ability to stay in touch with the rest of the world even when halfway up the Amazon. If you’re a traveller who likes to stay connected with life back home when you’re on your travels, take a look at the following top ten travel gadgets for the technological discerning traveller.
From finding the relevant desk at the airport and enduring the lengthy queues, to ensuring you have the correct paperwork in order, hiring a car abroad can be stressful.
Knowing what to expect and preparing for car hire can make the experience considerably less taxing.
