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List of Things to Do in Lanzarote

List of Things to Do in Lanzarote

by | Mar 8, 2024 | City Guides, Travel

I have spent a bit of time in Lanzarote. It is a wonderful holiday location and Lanzarote has many great places to go and things to do. I thought it might be good for the health to get away. Lanzarote is definitely the best of all the Canary Islands, having been to Gran Canaria and Tenerife previously. If you are going I have listed a few recommendations for you.

Trips & Excursions in Lanzarote

Ignore your Travel Rep and go with Last Minute Travel. Last Minute Travel has offices all over Puerto del Carmen and we went on 2 trips with them, The Grand Island Tour (€40 to €50 ea) and Playa Blanca Markets (€7 to 10 ea). All of these trips and excursions were excellent and had very knowledgeable guides who spoke multiple languages.

You should certainly take some time to explore the Timanfaya National Park which is one of the key volcanic areas of the island; this is an ideal area for hiking. When you are in the Timanfaya National Park it is like a moonscape. There are many tours to Timanfaya National Park which can be organized from your hotel.

Another must-see is the Jameos del Agua. This is a volcanic cave system that has been commercialized and has been used in the past for shows and performances. There is a magical secret that will be demonstrated when you do the official tour of the caves. It’s a wow moment and a must-see.

You should also visit Los Ajaches which is a nature-centric area that is actually a protected area of the island, it is a perfect place to do some exploring.

My Top 10 Things to do in Lanzarote

In no particular order, my top things to do in Lanzarote are as follows;

  • Timanfaya National Park
  • Haría Village
  • César Manrique Foundation: Taro de Tahiche
  • Playa de Papagao
  • Jameos del Agua caves
  • Teguise
  • Arrieta
  • Jardín de Cactus
  • El Golfo
  • Museo Atlántico

Just a note that Teguise and Costa Teguise are 2 totally different places, Teguise is a beautiful village in the center of Lanzarote but Costa Teguise is a coastal area with a lot of hotels and apartments and not much to see at all. 

Where to Stay in Lanzarote

I would highly recommend Hotel Fariones located at Calle Roque del Este, 1, 35510 Lanzarote, Las Palmas. It is a 5-star hotel which provides excellent service and great food. A private area where you can relax and enjoy wonderful views and yet you are only minutes from everything. I have stayed here a few times so if you have questions please leave them in the comments and I will do my best to answer as many as I can for you.

Food in Lanzarote

Lani’s has many restaurants in Puerto Del Carmen and other areas. Their restaurants are very well run and the food is great – not to be missed! Also, if you are near the Fariones Hotel, the New World Chinese Restaurant is amazing and again should be experienced, if only for the excellent Dim Sum selection. The variety of food styles on the island is vast, everything from Italian and Chinese to Thai, Sushi, and Indian food but there are also some great restaurants serving traditional food.

Electrical and Technology Items

You can be ripped off in some stores by people who will try to sell you non-branded goods or items that fail to work when you get home. I got excellent services from Monty in PhotoVision (Avda de las Playas, 14 local 1, 35510, Puerto del Carmen), one of the stores on the seafront. He has lots of Irish customers and even deals with a few FairCity celebrities (I was shown photos as proof and a huge customer book) – so I bought a few iPod things there and it only cost me €20 for the attachments I bought.

Harbour in the Old Town, Puerto Del Carmen, Lanzarote

 

Conclusion

The Island of Lanzarote is a wonderful Holiday Location and there is a lot to do. I would recommend doing all of your research before you go so that you can enjoy your time there rather than having to look up or research things while you are on holiday.

Free things to do in Barcelona

Free things to do in Barcelona

by | Nov 16, 2023 | City Guides, Travel

Barcelona is a beauty to behold. It has amazing architecture that will leave you in awe. You may be tempted to think it was sculpted by the gods of architecture themselves. It is also rich in history spanning hundreds of years. The city is sandwiched between the sea and the mountains contributing to its excellent weather.

There are many attractions you can visit in this city. But this article focuses on the free things you can do and still enjoy Barcelona. To move around you will require a means of transport. A car is the best thanks to the convenience it comes with. There are several companies offering van rentals in Barcelona that you can check out. Compare prices from at least three and settle on one that will best suit you. To further save some money, you can also compare the Barcelona airport van rental rate and the off-airport rate to find the cheapest. Let’s now look at some of the free things you can do when you visit Barcelona.

Take a Free Walking Tour

The best way to experience Barcelona and get to know your way around is by taking a walking tour. It allows you to interact with the locals and experience what it is like to live in Barcelona. It also exposes you to more attractions as the tour guide is a local.

Visit a Museum

If you love history and arts the sheer number of museums in this city will leave you spoilt for choice. Every first Sunday of the month entry fees are waived in most public museums. Some of the public museums also waive entry fees every Sunday afternoon. Ensure you confirm first before visiting as this may change from time to time..

Barcelona Art Gallery

Barcelona Art Galleries are a great way to enjoy free activities in the city

 

Attend the Magic Fountain Show

The show features an amazing display of outdoor lighting combined with awesome music and has been going on for almost a century. It takes place after dark. In summer because of the longer days, it may start a little late. Hoping you rent a van in Barcelona you can chill as you wait for darkness to fall for it to start. The show, however, takes a break for two months at the beginning of the year for maintenance.

Visit the Local Food Market

Free things to do in Barcelona include visiting a Food Market

Barcelona: free things to do in Barcelona

This will give you a first-hand experience of the local food culture. It is also a good opportunity to shop around for fresh food that you can later cook for yourself. Most of the food markets are open from Monday until Saturday 3 pm.

Conclusion

The number of free activities you can engage in while in Barcelona is large depending on your interests and passion. Some have been discussed in this article which you must try. To move around, keep in mind a few car rental tips as you settle on one rental company from the several Barcelona vans for rent companies and get yourself a van to move around in as you enjoy this beautiful city.

 

 

Family-Friendly Travel Guide to Israel: Activities, Accommodations

Family-Friendly Travel Guide to Israel: Activities, Accommodations

by | Apr 30, 2023 | City Guides, Travel

Israel is a wonderful country for families to visit. There are many things to do and plenty of people who can help you make your trip easier. According to Trend News Agency, official statistics released recently reveal that in the first quarter of 2023, the overnight stays by tourists in Israel reached 2.32 million. This was a nearly three-fold increase compared to the 786,000 tourist stays registered in the same period last year.

This guide will provide you with an overview of what it’s like to travel in Israel as a family, including helpful tips on where to stay, what to do, and what kosher food options exist.

Best Time to Visit Israel With Your Family

According to Forbes, travel experts in Israel recommend planning a trip to Israel between March-June and September-December, avoiding the summer and winter months. As per them, summers are crowded and very hot, and winters can get snowy in January and February.

However, for 2023, it will be “exceptionally busy” from March through late November, as it marks Israel’s 75th year of independence. For those looking to save money, January and February are recommended for a visit in 2023, even though it can be cold.

Top Family-Friendly Activities in Israel

Israel is a great destination for families with kids of all ages. There are numerous family-friendly activities to choose from, such as visiting the Dead Sea, where you can float in the mineral-rich waters and enjoy therapeutic mud treatments.

Exploring the Old City of Jerusalem is also a must, with its ancient streets, holy sites, and colorful bazaars. Hiking in Masada is another exciting activity for families, offering stunning views and a chance to learn about ancient history. Finally, don’t miss out on the opportunity to swim in the Mediterranean Sea, with its clear waters and beautiful beaches that are perfect for a fun family day out.

Accommodation Options Suitable for Families

When traveling with family, it’s important to choose suitable accommodations to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Israel offers a variety of accommodation options suitable for families, including hotels with kid-friendly amenities and vacation rentals with kitchens and multiple bedrooms.

Booking various properties of one hotel chain, such as Isrotel Hotels, can provide vacationers with better comfort and deals. A hotel group typically offers a diverse range of properties spread throughout the country that cater to families, including resorts with water parks, children’s clubs, and family-friendly activities. The Isrotel Tower in Tel Aviv is an example of Isrotel’s hotels that provide apartment-style suites with fully-equipped kitchens suitable for families traveling with children. 

You can check out the full list of top-notch hotels in Israel to find the best fit for your family.

Tips for Traveling With Children in Israel

Traveling with children in Israel can be an exciting and enriching experience, but it’s important to plan for a smooth trip. When it comes to transportation, consider taking advantage of Israel’s efficient and affordable public transportation system, which includes buses and trains. Keep in mind any health and safety concerns, such as staying hydrated and protecting skin from the sun.

Additionally, packing essentials like snacks, water bottles, and comfortable walking shoes can make a big difference. Finally, be sure to research and plan for family-friendly activities and attractions ahead of time to make the most of your trip.

Kosher Food Options in Israel

According to Haaretz, Israeli cuisine has three main pillars: restaurants, cooking shows, and recipes (such as blogs and cookbooks). In recent times, these three elements have taken a noticeable hit when it comes to non-kosher foods.

While several non-kosher restaurants remain in Tel Aviv and offer dishes such as shrimp, caviar, and lobster, even in Israel’s most secular city, locating pork products has become increasingly difficult. A closer examination reveals that the mere mention of pork has become somewhat of a taboo subject.

Israel is home to a variety of kosher food options that are suitable for families. Most restaurants and cafes in Israel are certified kosher, and many offer children’s menus and high chairs. Families can also visit the many outdoor markets in Israel, such as the Mahane Yehuda Market in Jerusalem, to sample local fruits and vegetables, as well as kosher baked goods and other snacks.

Religious Sites to Visit With Your Family

Israel is known for its religious sites, and many are family-friendly. The Western Wall in Jerusalem is a must-visit for Jews and non-Jews alike. It is a spiritual site where people come to pray and leave written prayers in the crevices of the wall. The Mount of Beatitudes, located near the Sea of Galilee, is a serene location where Jesus is believed to have delivered the Sermon on the Mount.

The Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem is another popular site for Christians, as it is believed to be the site of Jesus’ crucifixion, burial, and resurrection. Other notable religious sites include the Dome of the Rock and the Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem.

A List of Family-Friendly Festivals and Events

Israel is a country that celebrates a wide range of festivals and events throughout the year, many of which are family-friendly. One of the most well-known festivals is Hanukkah, which typically falls in December and features candle lighting, traditional foods, and games. Other popular events include the Israel Museum’s Family Festival, the Red Sea Jazz Festival in Eilat, and the International Hot Air Balloon Festival in the Jezreel Valley.

In addition, there are various cultural and arts festivals held throughout the year, such as the Jerusalem International Book Fair and the Tel Aviv International Puppet Theater Festival. Families visiting Israel can enjoy the festivities while experiencing the country’s diverse culture and traditions.

Conclusion

Israel is a great place to visit with your family. It has much to offer, from historical sites and cultural attractions to outdoor activities and delicious food. We hope this guide has helped you plan your next family holiday in Israel.

Top 5 Things to Do in Singapore

Top 5 Things to Do in Singapore

by | Sep 6, 2017 | City Guides

Things to Do in Singapore

Singapore is an amazing city to visit and in this Travel Blog post, I have outlined some of the wonderful activities you can enjoy during your time in Singapore.

 

Ride the Singapore Flyer

One of the icons of Singapore is the Singapore Flyer – you can see it from all the major areas and if you are staying in Singapore, it’s worth visiting. The Singapore Flyer is the world’s largest observation wheel and is a stunning 165m high. (30 metres taller than the London Eye in the United Kingdom). As the Singapore Flyer turns, you get a visual 360-degree view of the city of Singapore landscape and historical landmarks. The Singapore Flyer gives you breathtaking views of the Singapore River, Raffles Place, Merlion Park, Empress Place and the Padang – it is also worth visiting at sunset. The ride on the Singapore Flyer takes about 30 minutes and if you time it right you can get day and dusk views of the city from the Singapore Flyer. This is certainly one of the best Things to Do in Singapore.

For the more adventurous, you can enjoy a dining experience on board the Singapore Flyer if you wish.
Visit http://www.singaporeflyer.com/ for details of the Singapore Flyer.

Flight Simulator Experience

If you have been on the Singapore Flyer (or you find yourself in the environs of it), you might want to try your hand at flying a plane. You can take command of a Boeing 737-800 NG in this 100% realistic flight simulator. The cockpit is exactly as per the 737-800, with overhead panel, rudder and throttle controls, complete avionics, full auto-pilot etc and almost exact flight model to the 737-800 series jet. You get full instruction from your co-pilot who is fully trained on this aircraft simulator and can help you get the most from the flight simulator experience.

This flight simulator is exactly the same as pilots use for flight training and you can choose from over than 20,000 worldwide airports (I chose to fly into Kai Tak at Night – the old Hong Kong airport where you flew over the houses to land … see more below) and use the same operating procedures as the real airlines. No experience necessary as full instruction will be provided. You can get 30 minutes to 2-hour flights, and if you do this, you should really get the DVD which is only S$20 extra.

I did the 30-minute flight from Hong Kong international to Kai Tak (now decommissioned as an airport but was one of the most iconic landings in recent flight history). I then had time to do a touch-and-go at Dublin Airport followed by a Full Stop Landing. (However the Traffic Collision system onboard, TCAS, told me that I came with 1km of an inbound flight which would have been frowned upon in real life). Thankfully, all my landings were completed successfully and I was told to perhaps consider taking some lessons as my instructor said flight skills were very good. I hope to upload some of the flight videos very soon… This was one of MY favourite Things to Do in Singapore.

Visit http://www.flightexperience.com.sg/ for details of this excellent flight sim attraction.

 

Harbour Area and Opera House, Singapore - Top 5 Things to Do in Singapore

Take a City Tour – Tour East

When in Singapore you should certainly do a guided tour of the city, especially if you are on a brief visit. There are so many things to Do in Singapore, a city tour can cross off a lot from your list of attractions to see. The reasons for doing a city tour are two-fold, (a) Singapore is a very busy city and it would be hard to cover everything if you were only in the city for a short time and (b) it can get quite hot in Singapore and getting from one sight to the next via an air-conditioned bus is most welcome.

The tour company we used was Tour East and the sights covered the Mer Lion, the Thian Hock Keng Temple and Chinatown, a Local Handicraft Centre. One of the highlights of the Singapore City Tour is visiting the National Orchid Garden located within Singapore Botanic Gardens – you get 45 mins here but if you didn’t stop at the handicraft centre you could easily have over an hour here. The final stop of the tour is at Little India, a bustling Indian hub within Singapore. If you want you can pay a little extra to take in the Singapore Flyer (a giant wheel similar to the London Eye … see below)
Visit https://www.toureast.net/tour-item/singapore-city-tour/ for details of the Tour East Singapore Tours

Eat in a local restaurant and a walk around Clarke Quay

One of the best Things to do in Singapore is to enjoy the excellent local food, great seafood and plenty of choices. There are many restaurants around Clarke Quay, a busy venue worth visiting in the early evening and on into the night; it becomes a buzzing nightlife area after 6 pm. Clark Quay is nice to walk the circuit before you make your decision on food as all tastes are catered for, from Indian, Japanese, Italian and Chinese food, Look for the restaurants with the most locals as this is usually a good indication. We found the “Jumbo Seafood Restaurant”. Excellent food, try the fish in ginger and spring onion dish, the fresh juices and the fruit platters to finish.

Check out http://www.jumboseafood.com.sg for details on the Jumbo Seafood Restaurant, Singapore

Get a fish pedicure while you have a Back Massage

On Level 2 of the Singapore Flyer complex, you can get your feet manicured and nibbled at by tiny fish … and you can get a great back massage as this is happening. The fish foot spa is where Doctor Fishes or “Garra Rufa Fish”, give you a pedicure you won’t forget (and they do a great job too). The back massage is excellent and reflexology is also provided in this area … don’t forget to try out the Chinese tea if you are there for a while. Of all the many things to do in Singapore, this was one I was most squirmy about, as I found it very ticklish.

Details: Kenko Reflexology and Fish Spa, Located at Level 2 of Singapore Flyer Complex, #02-08 : Tel: (65) 6565 0303 :: Open Daily from 10 am – 11 pm

Recommended Hotel in Singapore City

Singapore is a fantastic city to visit and if you are planning to go there and you are looking for a good hotel, then the Fairmont Singapore is worth looking at…. check out the review of the Singapore Fairmont Hotel on this site for more details!

I hope you enjoyed this list of tours and activities to enjoy in Singapore and if you liked this post, please share. You can find more ‘Things to Do‘ City Guide posts on my website.

If you have an addition to this list of activities you can to enjoy during your time in Singapore which are not on this list please let me know.

My Travel Plans , 2022 and beyond

I’m hoping I can get back to Singapore again very soon. It has been a tough 18 months, with track locked down etc, I’m just looking forward to 2022 and beyond, maybe then we may be able to travel long distance again. Singapore, New Zealand, Hong Kong are all on my list – as is Japan (but it’s a little more expensive). I thoroughly enjoyed Singapore as a destination, very clean, very nice people, great food and great prices, fantastic hotel at the Faimont, good city tours … so here’s hoping I get back there soon.

Clarke Quay - Top 5 Things to Do in Singapore
  • Singapore Flyer 90% 90%
  • Flight Simulator Experience 100% 100%
  • City Tour 85% 85%
  • Clarke Quay 93% 93%
  • Fish Pedicure 80% 80%
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