Travel Catalogue
I have included a link to the country Ghana where one can experience a beautiful culture with friendly people.
Each of these locations is unique and has something to offer everyone. Those who wish to relax and chill can head off to the beaches whereas those who are more active can also find themselves an adventure. Why not try the Kakum National Park in Ghana where you can simulate the life of tarzan by walking across a rope bridge about 1,000ft above ground?
A Beach for each day of the year
Antigua & Barbuda – this is a remarkably beautiful island in the Caribbean about eight and a half hours direct flight from the UK. The capital city is St Johns. Antigua is a very small island, however the island boasts over 365 beaches. Beach lovers know all too well the beauty of relaxing on a tranquil quiet beach and should welcome these beaches with open arms. During the month of June/July, the weather is a constant 30 degrees and I believe that this only varies slightly throughout the year. There are no extremes.
Our first thought on arrival was...Indeed we are in paradise!
We visited 2 of Antigua’s white sandy beaches; the Beach Club at St James which boasts a four & five star accommodation complex as well as a marina on Mamora Bay. This beach dips into the Atlantic Ocean with refreshing winds unlike the bay which can be rather sticky. The other beach is Turner’s beach which was even more enchanting. Turner’s beach gently slopes into the Caribbean Ocean and is as calm as a pool. For the snorkellers amongst you there is an abundance of tropical fish to be seen. However if you are truly dedicated, why not head out to Cades Reef where there is a concentration of tropical fish and coral? The sea is a beautiful turquoise and so crystal clear it is incredible. There are lots of beach sports for those interested.
In the town centre of Antigua are various shops to entice the shopaholics and those who just wish to browse and to soak in the culture of the island. The people are friendly and totally chilled.
Trinidad & Tobago – Head to Rex Turtle Beach in Tobago which is famous for its numerous turtles. As the sun sets on the beach, you can see the turtles going back into the sea. The beach has a number of hawkers who can be determined to sell you all sorts. The journey time to Tobago is approximately eight and a half hours. The island is so serene it explains why Robinson Crusoe was set here.
For those who love the sea breeze rushing against you, why not join a Catamaran trip where you can experience a day out on the sea and do some snorkelling. The alternative for those who are afraid of the deep blue sea, there is always the option of viewing the bottom of the ocean bed via a glass bottom boat. Better still you would not be disappointed if you take a trip to the idyllic “Nylon pool”. It is so called because of its shallow depth and immaculate white sands. This really is an exquisite place lying a few nautical miles from the shore. Understandably, this is where Princess Margaret spent her honeymoon. Indeed there are lots of honeymooners often on holiday in Tobago and also getting married too.
One of the most beautiful beaches on the island lies at Pigeon Point. This is truly a breathtaking place where you can see the colourful fish playfully swimming close to the shore.
For those who enjoy getting involved in the local culture and events why not try “Sunday School” and if you think you are off to a religious gathering, you couldn’t be further from the truth. Sunday school is a jamming session where you can dance the night away.
Greece ~ Thassos – The island poses yet another contrast for the holidaymaker as we venture into Europe. This beautiful Greek island is set in the northern part of Greece just off the coast of Kavala – the nearest airport. Transfer to the island is via a large ferry that takes approximately 45 minutes. On arrival in Thassos town, you will appreciate the Mediterranean feel around you as you feel the sun beating against your skin and see locals whiling away time in local cafes.
Head up to Golden Beach, which is a very quiet area, but with the best beach on the island. There are several self-catering apartments dotted around the hillside. Beware if you are not fit or have trouble walking since the hill is rather steep and can be a struggle especially in the middle of the summer where temperatures are known to soar to the forties! For those preferring the half-board accommodation, there is always the hotel right on the beach and does not involve a hill trek.
What to do? Nothing but to relax and that’s exactly what we did for a fortnight. If you are overly active and need to be active then this area may not be suitable for you. However it is ideal for the unspoiled child who still appreciates playing in the sand on the beach rather than with his/her latest game console! The beach is incredibly shallow for almost sixty metres from shore and is really a gift for those who don’t like to venture into deep seas. For some local culture, one can experience a traditional Greek evening where there is a lot of dancing around the fire. Greek food is so tasteful and succulent it leaves you wanting more. One of my favourites is the moussaka.
Fuerterventura – This island is ideal for surfers and water sport activities. This is because of the strong wind that blows across the beach at all times. Although it is sunny, you may not be aware of this due to the strong winds but be sure you have your sun cream on. Infact the accurate translation of Fuerteventura is “Strong Winds”. If your travel agent didn’t tell you this then you’re in for a surprise particularly in the south of the island.
Everyone loves the Canaries and a week was just about enough for us. It really is for relaxing and taking time out of routines.
The quietest of Spain's Balearic Islands
Menorca – The smallest and the quietest of the Balearic Islands. The island offers Mediterranean beauty and keeps you away from the “tourists from hell” who are most likely to be visiting its sister island Majorca. There is a plethora of British pubs, restaurants etc, hence the Spanish culture is not immediately obvious. It is suited to families but does not offer much in terms of entertainment. It’s like going home from home except for the sunshine!
Tunisia – Situated in North Africa, this country is by no mean a reflection of other African countries. It is more reflective of the Middle Eastern culture as a result of its history. I often say that one has not experienced Africa until they have been to the either the East, West or Central parts of the continent.
Tunisia lies on the verge of the Sahara desert and the culture is fairly evident as you stroll along the streets. Hammamet is the largest tourist resort and is fairly busy. The beaches lie on the Atlantic Ocean and hence can be cold. However the warm climate offers a change to the British summer. If you venture out on the Sahara desert trips, be sure to take a jumper with you for the temperatures can drop quite severely at night.
There are lots of cultural sights in Tunisia. Amongst them is the infamous El-Jem which is a relic of a large amphitheatre built centuries ago. As mentioned earlier, head off on a coach trip to see a large salt lake and also for a camel ride on the outskirts of the desert. This is an experience to be sought with open mind.
Florida ~ Disneyworld I don’t need to explain where this is or what it’s about. Word of advice – get to the parks early and plan your day so that you don’t tire yourselves walking back & forth. In addition try to see your favourite things first because when you’re tired at the end of the day, your motivation level will be at its minimum. Try to pick up the park plans in advance and if you’ve got kids you’re better of buying the passes in advance, otherwise these can work out expensively.
There are plenty of budget places to stay in Florida but if you’re on your honeymoon and looking for something extra, why not try Hyatt Orlando? Unlike most holiday destination, accommodation does not include breakfast. However, continental breakfast is often complimentary though.
Where to go?
A true spirit of unspoilt Africa
Ghana ~ This is a beautiful country located on the West Coast of Africa. Prior to gaining its independence from Britain, it was called the Gold Coast. The capital city is Accra. There is a lot of history around this country.
There is a wide variety of things to do:
Experience the setting of "The Prisoner" in Portmeirion
Wales ~ Porthmadog This part of Wales arguably boasts one of the most magnificent views around the whole of Britain. The Village of Portmeirion is only a stone's throw away where the old television series "The Prisoner" was set. Portmeirion is also famous for its beautiful crockery.
Those who are truly energetic can take a walk up Mount Snowdon or for the lazy ones, there is always the Snowdonia Railway. The view from the top of this mountain is absolutely breathtaking.
There is plenty to do in North Wales to keep an entire family occupied.
Places of interest include:
times.
Ghana
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