1.Antwerp, Belgium
The best thing about visiting Antwerp, Belgium, is that it can be reached by the Eurostar in less than 3 hour from Brussels. Otherwise known as the fashion capital of the world, Antwerp’s sophisticated city has anything but a lack of shopping centres to choose from. No matter how broad or small your budget might be, there are a number of hotels you can choose from whether you want to be at the heart of the historic centre or in the hustle and bustle of the old town.
2,Barcelona, Spain
In Barcelona, you don’t have to decide whether you’d prefer to go shopping or sightseeing since wherever you go, you’ll be greeted with unforgettable sights. Better yet, the city is home to the sounds of some of the world’s best DJs. It doesn’t matter if you’re seeking thrill or endless relaxation in Barcelona because there’s plenty for everyone to enjoy. As one of the trendiest destinations to visit in 2017, we promise you it’s worth the visit.
3,Venice, Italy
Located on the northeast coast of Italy, Venice attracts over 20million people each year. A visit would not be complete without a trip aboard a gondola around the world’s most recognizable waterways. Love seafood? You’re in luck! Some of the best seafood restaurants include Osteria alle Testiere and Riviera Venexia. Better yet, the beautiful city is blooming with culture and history. You definitely won’t be lost for things to do! Make the most of your getaway by visiting Rialto Bridge and Piazza San Marco.
4.Budapest, Hungary
Budapest is full of charm and beauty. Not only is it one of Europe’s best cities, it home to some of the most exquisite restaurants and an array of galleries and museums for you to explore. As one of the most exciting cities to discover, you can fly to Budapest from just £43 each way.
5.London, England
Taking a break in a city doesn’t mean you have to exclude your city. London will bring you face to face with some of the most famous landmarks and attractions no other city can. In the summer you can make the best of the numerous parks are gardens open to the public to unwind. In the chiller months visit Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland, go ice skating at Somerset House or go on a tour of haunted pubs. Despite being expensive, it’s worth every penny!
]]>Adventure doesn’t necessarily mean distance. Maintain peace of mind knowing your E111 card is valid to ensure you have access to medical care throughout your entire trip.
If you want to travel a little closer to home to avoid long haul flights, there are plenty of exciting experiences around Europe to discover this summer:
Croatia
If you thrive on adventure and new experiences, remember to pack your walking shoes as an experience that cannot be missed is walking the Ancient City Walls of Dubrovnik. Walk along the 31 metre high wall all year round (except Christmas Day) for no more than £90.
Game of Thrones fan? You’re in luck! Discover the city of the King’s Landing and treat your partner (or friend to a tour of the set. Get the opportunity to visit some of the actual sets as seen in the programme including Lovrijenac’s Fortress.
Vietnam
Located on the South East of Asia, visiting Vietnam is a perfect way to experience new culture. Although primarily known for its breath-taking beaches and rivers, why not immerse yourself in the history of the area by embarking on magical excursions around the city. Get to grips with the heritage of locals by visiting ancient towns or tour around the Cu Chi Tunnels to learn about Vietnam’s wartime.
France
Looking for an adrenalin rush? Not only will you be able to indulge yourself Frances alfresco lifestyle, you can experience things you never have had the opportunity to before. Skydiving is one of the main attractions in France. From flying over the Alps to the Pyrenees – there’s never a dull moment.
Finland
Lapland is Finland’s number one tourist destination. Enjoy watching the magical Northern Lights around a campfire and enjoy a ride through the snowy countryside or visit Santa with your littles one throughout December to make their dreams come true. If you’re looking to embark on a visit with more action, why not learn how to Ice Fish first hand with a professional, or ride a snowmobile through the snowy landscapes.
]]>Making the decision to visit New Zealand and taking the time to plan a trip there from the UK is not something that many travellers take lightly. With upwards of 20 hours being spent in the air, it seems obvious that you should take the time to stop over and make the most of your long-haul travel plans by making a stopover somewhere along the line and hit two (or more!) birds with one stone by seeing a few more countries along the way. Luxury Tours offer a range of alternatives. Here are some of the best stopover ideas that you can use to inspire your future travel route planning when heading to New Zealand:
San Francisco
Arguably one of the most unique and cosmopolitan of all US cities, San Francisco is a hard stopover option to ignore when you’re exploring your options for travelling to New Zealand. If you’re happiest hitting up all the best bohemian cafes and boutiques, then San Fran is the place for you. The city is full of all the obvious urban jungle attractions, alongside some exciting alternatives that are best discovered when sought after in the spur of the moment! Alongside your usual travel documents, you should also apply for an ESTA visa card before booking your stopover in San Francisco, or else not be permitted to enter the country.
Fly here via Qantas and Virgin Atlantic (approx. 10 hours from London)
Bangkok
If you’re a culture vulture seeking history and the arts, then Bangkok is calling your name! Amidst the cacophony of traffic and tuk-tuks, there is another side to the city and that lies in its holy buildings and statues. Bangkok is certainly a top contender for anyone looking to spice up their travels and try taking on a place that is eclectic and charming in its own unique way.
Fly here via Emirates, Etihad (approx. 12 hours from London)
Bali
The wonderful thing about visiting Bali is that while you have the regular tourists hotspots like Kuta to explore, you can also step out onto a road less travelled and be met with isolated beaches and beautifully green rice paddy fields. Famous for its chilled out, spiritual vibes and fabulous spas, there is no better place to recover from your hours spent in the sky than by getting a massage or invigorating scrub treatment.
Fly here via Singapore Airlines (approx. 19 hours from London)
Singapore
Singapore is fast becoming a popular holiday destination in its own right and certainly deserves a look in if you’re after an exciting place to explore before arriving in New Zealand. While there is obviously lots of shopping and stunning hotels to stay in (for example, Marina Bay Sands) while spending time here, there is another side to this bustling city too. Singapore is also home to one for the largest and most impressive zoo which is guaranteed to have you mesmerised and left with a better understanding of some of the world’s most impressive and endangered creatures.
Fly here via Singapore Airlines (approx. 12 hours from London)
New Zealand’s reputation when it comes to offering some of the world’s’ most delicious and innovative dishes is growing, with Kiwi chefs paving the way for emerging talents and creating dishes that make waves across the world. The following top European restaurants in New Zealand have earnt their popularity and critical acclaim by dedicating their time to producing spectacular foods and wines. From casual pubs to fine dining experiences, New Zealand certainly has a lot to offer an inquisitive foodie looking to make the most of their New Zealand adventure through eating and drinking their way through the menus!
1. Odette’s Eatery
Odette’s Eatery is described as being a very popular brunching spot found in a modern and open planned depot in the city. With indoor and outdoor dining, you will be able to find interesting brunch choices that are not only tasty, but highly Instagrammable.
2. Jack Tar
Jack Tar is well known for being a lively and vibrant gastropub that offers stunning views of Auckland harbour. This chilled out eatery has everything from vegan food options to craft beer and live music nights. While their main focus is food they are known for their fabulous wine and cocktail options too!
3. The Garden Shed
The Garden Shed is one of those places that offer a pretty décor (garden themed interior) alongside offering tasty and healthy meal options that are perfect if you are looking to same fresh produce. The atmosphere here is something that really adds to the tasty food and drink options and makes for a great special occasion meal.
4. The Sugar Club
The Sugar Club is certainly a dining option for those looking for the wow-factor as it is situated on the 53rd floor of the Sky Tower in Auckland. It’s breath-taking and creative dishes are somewhat pricey but you get what you pay for in this sumptuously decorated bar and restaurant.
5. Eight – The Langham Hotel
At Eight, you are greeted with a buffet with a difference. There are fresh sushi and sashimi selections and all of the seafood is fresh and of exceptional quality. Visitors are often taken aback by the sheer range and variety of seafood here. If you are looking for an indulgent seafood eatery of the highest standard then Eight at the Langham Hotel is hard to beat!
No matter where in New Zealand you are going to be traveling to, you can rest assured that there will always be some European style eateries for you to check out while you are there. And, if travelling to New Zealand to get your fix of European food sounds like a step too far, then why not visit one of the countries represented by the EHIC in Europe, where you can get your fill of local gastronomical delights without flying long-haul? The fantastic thing about our world is that you can find influences of all cultures and cuisines making their way overseas so that you can get your fix of the very best New Zealand dishes in Europe and vice versa!
New Zealand and Queenstown in particular is well known as being one of the extreme sport capitals of the world. New Zealander’s take your average sport to the next level and are famous for being adventurous adrenaline seekers with a need for speed! Half a million people flock to this part of the world in the hope of bringing some thrills and kicks to their day. If you are looking for a way to live by the motto ‘do one thing every day that scares you’ then coming to New Zealand can be just what you are looking for!
If you are travelling through Europe and have a stop-over in anther European country then be sure to carry an EHIC with you. Alongside this, as extreme sports carry significant risks; be sure to add a travel insurance policy that covers you for the sport that you intend on doing whilst out there. If you want to know a little more about the types of sports that you could be participating in, check out our list of the best:
Jet Boating
For fun filled thrills that you can do as a group of mates, we would definitely recommend that you try Jet Skiing Packages on Oahu while checking off things from your bucket list! The best place to feel the wind in your hair as you speed through the water on a jet-boat is on Lake Taupo’s Huka Falls where you will find spectacular views of the surrounding area.
Canyoning
One of the most wild and terrifyingly exhilarating extreme sports in New Zealand is canyoning. This activity can be found in some of the more remote areas of Auckland, Canterbury, Nelson and Coromandel.
Caving
If you aren’t afraid of the dark then you may well want to wander into the dark scary caves that can be found in abundance on the island here. Caving can involve anything from climbing, swimming, abseiling or ‘blackwater rafting’ though some of the most fascinating caves in the world!
Heli-Skiing
If you are really looking for a fresh perspective on the world, then why not try your hand at heli-skiing where you are flown to the top of the mountain and are then able to make your way back down from a great high on skis. It’s like a two-for-the-price-of-one experience!
Off Road Drives
Hit the road (or the land!) in an exciting off road drive along New Zealand’s vast network of back roads and tracks that are guaranteed to get your heart racing. If you really want to take this experience to the next level then you can also try racing though the sand dunes at Ninety Mile Beach in Northland.
Ice Climbing
While some people prefer to only see ice in their cocktails, there are parts of New Zealand that people flock to for ice climbing purposes. Climbing ice at the famous Fox Glacier is among one of the lesser known extreme sports you can participate in.