We are enjoying the long light this time of year in the northern latitudes. And as far as capital cities, it doesn't get much more north than this; Helsinki is at 60 degrees north latitude. A few hours of semi darkness settles in around 1230pm until 3pm and then by 4am its fully light again. Wandering the streets in bright light at 10:30pm is perhaps an odd feeling for those who live in the middle latitudes. And furthermore it seems strange … [Read more...]
Just woke up in “prison” in Helsinki
"Am I there yet? Am I there yet?" This question rattled around several times in my jet lag induced brain for a few moments before one eye fluttered open. In the foggy haze of nonstop travel for the past few days I looked around. I was in a small room. I noticed the window. It was high up the wall, not in a normal spot for a window. I glanced at the blinking red light. It was 4am. But there was plenty of outside light in the room. There was … [Read more...]
Dublin at Christmas
Dublin is a fabulous city to visit all year round but it is especially magical at Christmas. Every street, from the wide thoroughfares to the little winding alleys are lit for the season and the shops – always a delight – really rise to the occasion. For a very special Christmas break, Dublin is hard to beat and you can find an assortment of hotels on offer from Hotel Direct. Dublin’s markets are famous and at Christmas they are where you will … [Read more...]
Try Something New: Activities in Cyprus
Cyprus has become a popular holiday destination largely due to its idyllic beaches and reputation as a family friendly and fun island. There is so much more to Cyprus than just sand, sea and sun though, and a holiday here can be packed full of interesting and exciting activities that can be enjoyed if you are the kind of person that needs a little more than relaxation by the waves. Try your hand at some new things whilst on a Direct Holidays trip … [Read more...]
Fun in the Sun in Bulgaria
Packed with culture, heritage and beautiful scenery, Bulgaria is a holiday destination that's fast becoming the next big thing in the summer holiday brochure - and it's not hard to see why. Its beautiful coastline boasts miles of Blue Flag beaches, many of which feature bubbly holiday resorts, gorgeous golden sands and lovely warm shallow waters. There are plenty of family-friendly areas along Bulgaria's coastline, many of which offer … [Read more...]
Experience the best of Britain with a central London tour
London is an amazing city to explore - there is no other city quite like it. Nothing captures the imaginations of tourists like the Tower of London, River Thames and the National Gallery. There is never any shortage of things to do in London and there are a variety of ways to discover the unique culture and heritage behind this great city. But if you truly want to explore London in style, you're in luck, because a number of different tours … [Read more...]
Five Reasons to Visit Olu Deniz
Mention holidays to Turkey to a lot of people and crowded bazaars and bustling streets spring to mind – not exactly the serene tranquillity which features highly on most people’s holiday wish lists. But The Water is as Blue as the Destination Guides Describe The Blue Lagoon, as it is affectionately known, couldn’t be more apt for the area. It’s Greener Than People Think Undulating hills of trees and greenery are great for … [Read more...]
Sofiero Palace and Gardens
My visit to Sweden this time was decidedly different than my previous. Enduring cold weather, cloudy skies and drizzly conditions during my last visit we spent much of our time indoors drinking hot chocolate, eating sushi and visiting with family who live in Malmö. During the entirety of that trip, the cold weather followed us up to Oslo Norway - and then over to Stavanger and Bergen with fleeting glimpses of the gorgeous fjords tantalizingly … [Read more...]
Exploring Little Liechtenstein
We showed up in Vaduz (the capital city) - knowing little more about this small country - other than it was small and fairly mountainous and that there is a royal family. "Small Country Europe" was the latest self titled trip to the continent- we had already visited San Marino and Monaco and Lichtenstein certainly fit this "small" role. We drove up from Lago di Como in Italy ultimately passing through Logano. I have been to Switzerland several … [Read more...]
Culinary Highlights at Sweden’s only Floating Hotel
Both my Napa Valley winemaker friend, Emil and I were looking forward all trip to a visit and stay at Sweden's only floating hotel - along with a visit to the adjoining restaurant (Salt & Sill) - in the small ocean-side town of Klädesholmen on Tjörn Island in Western Sweden. This was one of the restaurants on our itinerary we had planned to wear the finest clothes we brought along! However, it was not to be - we barely arrived before closing … [Read more...]
- « Previous Page
- 1
- …
- 3
- 4
- 5
- 6
- 7
- …
- 11
- Next Page »