Home Articles Posted by Izy Berry (Page 91)
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Relaxing and Rejuvenating on The Road – The Four Seasons Experience
Traveling can be hard work – you might not believe it, but sleepless nights on trains, buses and planes add up quickly. Even moving countries, learning new currencies and languages can wear at you when you’re not feeling your best. It’s so important to take breaks out during your travels, to ensure you’re well rested, healthy and relaxed. Earlier in my trip, we had the pleasure of staying at the Four Seasons in Singapore and experiencing some of the service that makes The Four Seasons one of the most famous hotel chains in the world. It was a really special stay and I thought I’d share it with you.
On the Friday night during our trip, Ben and I went down to the monthly final cocktail evening, at One-Ninety Bar by Javier de las Muelas, to sample some of the delicious cocktails on offer. There are a number of bar snacks that are perfectly paired with a certain drink. We tried the “Fish and Chip Burgers” with the Wasabi Martini, and while I was a little dubious about a Wasabi Martini, I was very pleasently surprised. In fact, the Four Season’s Wasabi Martini might be my favourite Martini. We tried a few other drinks, including the Kettle drinks, which are served in a kettle alongside some dry ice to keep things fresh. It was a really relaxed environment and a great way to start out evening before heading out to some of the other sites Singapore has on offer.
If you’ve read a handful of my blog posts, or met me in person, you know that I’m very, very fond of massages. I think they’re a great way to de-stress, to release toxins and to ensure you’re well rested. The day before we flew to Thailand, we decided to try out two of the Four Season’s Signature massages. I had the Harmonizing massage while Ben had the Restorative massage. I’ve had countless massages in countless hotels and spas across the globe and this was certainly one of the most memorable. My masseuse was extremely talented – she was a visiting therapist from the Philippines who specialised in this type of massage. Before the treatment, she talked me through the procedure, asked if I had any particular areas that needed work and was very warm and welcoming.
The massage itself was incredible – she used a bowl like tool on my feet, and the massage chair moved into certain positions that made it hard not to fall asleep – I was that comfortable. After the massage I felt like I was floating on a cloud and only wished we had more time to schedule another! Ben said his massage was hands down the best he had ever had, so if you’re planning a trip to Singapore I would suggest you try out either of these signature massage treatments.
Later that evening we treated our taste buds to a culinary experience at the Four Season’s Chinese Restaurant: Jiang-Nan Chun. As we worked our way through the different courses, we couldn’t help but be delighted. To be honest, I’ve never been much of a fan of Chinese food, but I had heard good things so couldn’t resist. While all the courses we tried were delicious, the most memorable for me were the pork belly, the dim sum and the wasabi prawns. Singapore is known around the world for having some of the best food in the world, and Jiang-Nan Chun certainly upholds that reputation.
By the time we’d finished our massage and dinner, we were so relaxed that we could barely keep awake. We made our way back up to our gorgeous room and left the curtains open so we could look out towards Singapore’s skyline. It was the perfect way to prepare for our flight the next day and to unwind in one of my favourite cities in the world.
Do you have a special pre-flight routine? Have you ever stayed at a Four Seasons? If so, how was your experience? I’d love to try more of them around the world.
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Travelling to Asia: Why I Love the Freedom and Independence
Travelling to Asia is always an amazing experience. Whether I’m taking the train in bustling Seoul, Korea or walking around vibrant Bangkok, Thailand, I feel alive in a way that can be tough to describe. Travelling in Asia makes me feel free and independent — and kind of like I can conquer the world on my own.
1. Revelling in The Simple Things
When I’m in a south-eastern Asian nation such as Vietnam or Thailand, I get the opportunity to revel in all of the simplicities of being alive. Munching on fried noodles on the streets can fill me with so much joy. Going on a tuk-tuk ride around the jam-packed city streets can do the same. Taking in all of the sights and sounds of an unfamiliar place can stir up many exciting emotions in me. It makes me feel free, strong and absolutely invigorated.
2. Learning New Things
Travelling in Asia isn’t just about hitting all of the major tourist attractions. I learn so much when I’m abroad. When I’m trekking around Japan, I get a close glimpse into how people interact with each other, bowing as a form of courtesy. I get to view the importance of groups in Japanese society, as well. When I’m visiting a country like Vietnam, I get the chance to hear the language. I get to see how the locals live their lives, whether it involves trips to purchase groceries or going about their daily work. The amount of learning I do when I’m in Asia is quite impressive. Being in Asia opens me up to a whole new universe of language, religion, food, scenery and social norms, to be specific. Culture shock isn’t so “shocking” to me anymore.
3. Cutting Down
When I’m in certain Asian nations, I realize that I used to take so much for granted in my lifestyle. Being in places like Indonesia, Cambodia, Vietnam and Thailand does this to me. When I see the locals leading their often simple — yet rewarding — lives, I’m thrown by how I used to live. I used to live in constant fear of money. I was in many ways driven by material things. Travelling in Asia, however, has given me an incredible sense of freedom and independence in that it has made me realize that those things just aren’t that important.
If you want to revitalize your senses and discover your true self, travelling all throughout Asia can help you on that journey. Expedia is one where you can find the best deal on hotel and accommodation. Check out their website to find something that fits your budget and traveling plans.
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Unique beaches of the UK
The islands that make up Great Britain are framed by 9,000 miles of some of the most unique coastline in the world. Travellers and holidaymakers can therefore take their pick of stunning isolated beaches, seaside playgrounds like Blackpool, or more cosmopolitan beach areas such as Brighton. Alternatively they can search out the perfect cove or cliff setting for a fabulous family getaway.
Ladram Bay, Otterton
Great for: camping, hot tub lodges, water sports and family friendly
Interesting Fact: Ladram was used by smugglers to land contraband such as brandy – this stopped in the 1800’s.
The pebbled beach of Ladram Bay is accessible all year around, with the holiday park is open from March – November. Throughout the season there are a range of family activities on offer, from kayaking, boat-hire, sea scooters and fishing. Others may prefer to have a more relaxing visit and simply choose to explore the footpaths along this part of the Jurassic coast or take shelter in a hot tub and soothe their cares away.
Ladram Bay is unique in that it is a private beach that can only be accessed via the Holiday Park (day passes are available) or by boat. This beautiful bay sits along the Jurassic coast (a World Heritage site) an honour it shares with the neighbouring county of Dorset.
Ladram Bay offers one of the most superlative holiday parks in Devon. Yes, it is one of the largest parks in the region, offering a mix of visitors who are camping under canvas, or in their own caravan, or those who have hired a static van, or the owners of the vans and lodges themselves, and yet the ethos is the same for all – ‘peace and quiet, a place to relax, have some fun and just enjoy.’
Sanday Island, Orkney
Great for: tranquillity, blue water and wildlife
Interesting Fact: Of the 70 Orkney Island just 20 are inhabited.
For those who really want to get away from it all, head to Orkney off the Northern tip of Scotland. Orkney is made up of a group of 70 islands with the majority of these being uninhabited. With a history that starts with the Neolithic people more than 4,500 years ago coupled with the annual Orkney invasion of birds and wildlife – you’ll find plenty to do and see at the UNESCO World Heritage Site and various reservation areas.
You’ll also find an abundance of fresh quality cuisine – don’t forget to try the Orkney Herring and Orkney cheese – and warm, welcoming hospitality.
Sanday has long natural stretches of sandy beaches with sparkling seas and plenty of wildlife to spot including seals. The roads are very quiet and the locals very friendly – so give them a wave as you meander through the lanes.
Botany Bay, Broadstairs, Kent
Great for: safe swimming, photography and fossil hunting
Interesting fact: the white cliffs were formed during the Upper Cretaceous period around 100-65 million years ago.
The name Botany Bay is synonymous with the infamous bay in Australia, but while this hidden gem took its name at the same time, it is located in Broadstairs, Kent.
Families are attracted to Botany Bay thanks to the opportunities for safe swimming that it offers, along with its five star water quality and its truly spectacular setting, indeed the chalk cliffs and stacks are magnificent. In spite of this, Botany Bay is quiet and secluded enough to allow for proper relaxation if that’s what you desire.
When the tide goes out you have the chance to explore the rock pools and hunt for fossils. During the season there are a variety of facilities available including deckchair hire and lifeguards who keep a careful eye on swimmers.
Wells-next-the-Sea, Norfolk
Great for: novelty, family fun and bird watching
Interesting fact: The ports name was changed to distinguish its name locations in the early 19th century.
For something a little different why not head out to Wells-next-the-Sea in Norfolk? This wide sandy beach is backed by pine woods, but because it is a fair distance from the town you can use the little narrow gauge railway to get there. During the season the lifeguards keep a careful eye out so that you can chill out among the little whimsical beach huts while watching kids (big and little) splashing around in the pools.
Wells-next-the-Sea is part of the largest coastal nature reserve in England and Wales, and like the rest of the Norfolk Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty – is a haven for twitchers. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to spot terns, oystercatchers, avocets, bitterns and marsh harriers.
Rhossili Bay, Swansea
Great for: facilities, dog friendly, water sports
Interesting fact: In 2011 Rhossili was the stage for 400 people who attempted to break the world record for largest collective skinny dip.
No list of unique beaches would be complete without a mention of Rhossili Bay, which has been voted the third best beach in Europe and ninth best in the world. The Times nominated Rhossili as ‘The UK’s No.1 dog-friendly beach’ which among canine fans is an accolade indeed.
Rhossili Bay offers you three miles of fine golden sand and – thanks to the Atlantic swell – a range of watersports – particularly surfing. The walks along the cliffs are magnificent and you may be able to spot seals or dolphins playing in the surf, or even the shipwrecks that lie just below the surface. Rhossili Bay is part of the Gower Coast Path and the views are breath-taking.
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Top 5 World Road trips
When the sun’s out and the days lengthen, there is nothing like filling the tank in your car and hitting the open road.While a road trip is a classic American endeavour (think diners, motels, and Route 66), we say don’t limit your horizons: in this article, we explore ideas for some of the best road trips around the world.
European Roadtrips
If you are based in the UK, don’t overlook a road trip in Europe. A popular way to travel is in a revamped VW Campervan – imagine driving to the south of France in your van, stopping only to marvel at chateaux and sleeping on the Cote d’Azur– watching the sun set each day with a glass of Merlot in your hand. Or how about a Grand Tour through Switzerland, France, and Italy? Starting in Geneva, twist your way through the mountains, visiting Chamonix and Turin before reaching Florence.
The Big Easy
For an all-American trip, you could do worse than drive from Mobile, Alabama, (the setting of Harper Lee’s famous novel, To Kill A Mockingbird) to New Orleans, Louisiana. Marvel at the vast southern mansions, and immerse yourself in jazz in New Orleans’ French Quarter. Time it right for Mardi Gras and you’ll have an unforgettable experience- the carnival and parades have an electric atmosphere and they’re totally free.
The Silk Road
For something a little less gentle, try the Karakoram Highway through Pakistan and China: start in Abbottabad (of Osama Bin Laden hideout fame) and end in Kashgar. It’s the highest altitude paved road in the world- a part of the famed Silk Road, it’s said that over 1000 lives were lost in its construction, but if you’re prepared for more extreme conditions, you’ll be richly rewarded with amazing views and stories to take home. Blasted through the mountains, it’s a genuine feat of engineering. Avoid during winter due to snowfall closures- and don’t forget your car hire insurance.
Australia’s Great Ocean Road
This is the classic Aussie road trip. Drive between Melbourne and Adelaide and admire the amazing free sights provided by nature. Check out the Twelve Apostles (rock stacks millions of years old pointing out of the ocean), and mind you don’t hit a koala or kangaroo.
Out of Africa
If you have heard about the Limpopo River in stories and rhymes, see it for yourself on a South African road trip. Along the borders with Botswana and Zimbabwe, get a feel for this land of contrasts with lush vegetation and sparse, dusty landscape with the African bush.
What are you waiting for? Pick a continent, dust off that licence and get your driving gloves on!
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Making the most of it
City breaks are great, and whilst in essence they may be short breaks, often it’s the whistle-stop tours which turn out to be the most enjoyable; you don’t have time to be stressed, bored, or have the time to think too much, other than focusing on what you’re seeing. A city break is the perfect break from the norm.
Despite that, the fact that your break is a short one means you can’t afford any hiccups in your travel plans, and this is where using this flight tracker on holidayextras.co.uk can keep you one step ahead of the game and will help you out. Anticipating any potential problems, which obviously we hope there won’t be, means you will be in a better position to move your plans around a little, if need be.
The good thing about city breaks is that you can usually grab a cheap flight, and more often than not, flights aren’t that long either, which means more time in your destination. If you can, try and grab yourself an early flight, which leaves you with the rest of the day to enjoy. Doing some research pre-departure will also mean you have more time, because you’re not going to be running around like a headless chicken, trying to figure out where the best sights are and how to get to them. Don’t waste time trying to find things when you can do all the leg work before you leave!
If you want to go to a particular restaurant, why not call ahead and reserve a table? Most large restaurants will allow you to do this, and again, this saves you time, so you’re not queuing in vain for anything up to an hour or so!
Being organised in such a way isn’t a bad thing, and whilst it might take up a bit of time in the weeks leading up to your departure, it will mean you see more whilst you’re away.
So, where will you go?
There are countless cities right on our doorstep, meaning you can experience culture, history, architecture, cuisine, night-life, relaxation, shopping, theatre, almost anything in just a few short hours.
We’re lucky like that!
Another plus to the city break is that if you wake up one morning, maybe you find yourself with a weekend off, you can easily grab a last minute flight, and cheap accommodation, quicker than the time it can take to drive to London for the weekend!
Put simply, city breaks are the epitome of a break from reality, all within the space of a few hours.
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Is Paris still the most romantic city in the world?
Oui, it sure is. I would have thought by now another city would have taken the title of most romantic city in the world but after a recent trip to Paris, I definitely discovered why this city is still the city of love. So if you are planning a romantic escape to Paris, here some top things to do there.
Enjoy a river cruise
There is nothing like romance, than taking one of the romantic European river cruises along the River Seine in Paris. Sip on Champagne as you watch the beautiful sights and sounds roll past your eyes. You can do a daytime cruise or a nighttime cruise but either or offer great romantic views of this beautiful city.
Symbolize your love
If you are in Paris for romance then you can’t go without visiting the Pont des Arts Bridge, where couples write there names on padlocks and attach them to the fencing on the bridge to symbolize their love. There is so much love there, in fact that the bridge had it’s railing break earlier this year from too much weight.
Wine and dine your way around the city
Paris has absolutely no shortage of fine wine and dining. You can have a beautiful candlelit romantic dinner just about anywhere you go in the city, with some of the best French dishes you have ever tasted. For golden age Parisian dining then visit Benoit, Le Train Bleu or Piroette. Some of the best restaurants though are discovered in the small back alleys, so go on foot and ask the locals as to where their personal favourites are.
Listen to live jazz
On a Sunday head to Le Caveau des Oubliettes, where you will be seduced by some of the best live jazz in Paris. It’s also the oldest live jazz bar in the city and offers a beautiful underground wine cellar.
Pack a picnic and take in the views
Find a picnic basket and fill it with your favourite French wine and cheese then pick a spot with a good view. There are no shortage of stunning views in Paris, you could pick from staring up at the Eifel Tower or even have a picnic whilst up there. Pick a spot along the river and gaze at one of the many beautiful bridges or back at the cities stunning architecture. My personal favourite though is a little treasure trove, located just near the gates of Parc des Buttes Chaumont, where you will discover a quiet little hill top village with your own private view of Montematre.
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Great weekend escapes in Britain
Whilst Britain has some fantastic cosmopolitan cities, once in a while it’s nice to get out of the concrete jungle and enjoy a lovely weekend away. You get to breath in that fresh clean air as you relax spending time with loved ones. So if you are looking at a quick escape from the city, use this handy guide for planning your weekend getaway.
Head to Cornwall
You don’t often think of beach holidays when you think of the UK but Cornwall is a great place for a beach weekend escape. You can also hire some great rural holiday homes in Cornwall for the weekend, which can be anything from your basic bungalow to luxury cabins. Cornwall is great for families with an array of fun-filled family activities but is great for couples too. Eat fish n chips along the waters edge or have a go at paddle boarding during the day. It also offers some great surfing spots at one of Newquay’s beaches.
Snuggle up in a country cottage
It doesn’t need to be summer to enjoy a weekend away, think country cottage, rolling hill landscape, wood fire, bottle of red wine and some good food. There is no shortage of quaint country towns in Britain however Chulmleigh is a great spot to visit in the winter time, that offers everything you could ask for in a country weekend escape.
Get active in the Lake District
If you feel like being a little more active on your weekend away, then why not go rowing in the Northern Lake District. If rowing isn’t your thing then there is plenty of hikes you can do that offer spectacular views. The Lake District is also great for a romantic getaway with its stunning landscape and fourteen different lakes to visit.
Experience history in York
Whilst York is a city itself, it’s definitely a lot different to the busier cities of Britain like London and Manchester. The whole town just oozes history, with its ancient cobbled streets, medieval castle, and it’s ancient city walls. Take a nightly ghost tour around the city if you want to hear some good old scary tales.
Check out the heights in Dover
This gorgeous port town offers stunning cliff top views out into the English Channel. Stroll along the famous White Chalk Cliffs and visit Dover Castle, famous for it’s shear beauty. Being a port town it’s also filled with great military history.
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Hack China in 1 Week: Make the Most of Your 1 Week Visit to China
Not everyone has the luxury of travelling to places on a long-term basis. Many people work normal 9-5 jobs, which often come with a paltry 1-2 weeks’ vacation allowance.
As a result, many people think they cannot go on a long haul holiday, and therefore stick to countries closer to home.
However, below we will show you how you can make the most of a 1-week visit to China, and enjoy a few of the cultural and historical sites the country has to offer.
The Far East will no longer be just a pipe dream.
Day 1- Arrival- Beijing
This day will mostly consist of travel, from home to Beijing and then rest after the long flight. One of the best hotels in Beijing is the Park Hyatt which has an in-house spa for a well-deserved jetlag massage. Beijing is the major entry point for foreign travellers in China. However, you can also arrive at Shanghai and Guangzhou Airports.
Beijing is the capital of China and situated in the northern edge of the country. The city is home to a rich heritage and is a tourist hotspot.
Day 2- Beijing- Forbidden City
Start your journey with a visit to the Forbidden City, this is located in the centre of Beijing and consists of 980 buildings that make up the Imperial Palace of the Ming and Qing dynasty.
This city is a UNESCO world heritage site and is well worth a visit. Make sure to spare enough time to explore the numerous antechambers and rooms of the city.
Day 3- Beijing- Temples
The following morning head out to the Temple of Heaven, leaving the evening to relax at the Lama Temple.
If you are after astonishing carpentry and decorative curved roofs then these temples will definitely cater to your needs.
Be sure to explore the streets outside the temples. Here you will come across an array of Buddha statues, talismans and incense available for purchase.
Spend the afternoon exploring various other sites in Beijing such as gardens temples and historic tombs.
Day 4- Beijing- The Great Wall of China
Spend the fourth day exploring The Great Wall of China. Head out early so you can spend the whole day hiking and marvelling at this beautiful wonder of the world.
Enjoy the scenic beauty of the surrounding rugged mountains at Jinshanling or Simatai.
Indulge in some local cuisine and take some rest before catching the night train from Beijing to Xi’an.
Days 5- Xi’an- Terracotta Warriors
Xian is an amazing city located in the central north west of China; this place is home to the famous terracotta warriors and horses. There are over 7000 pottery soldiers here guarding the temple of Qin Shi Huang.
Head out early to the terracotta warriors, so you have time to visit the Great Mosque in the afternoon.
End the day off with a delicious meal from the nearby Muslim markets.
Day 6- Xi’an- Other Attractions
Xi’an has many attractions other than the Terracotta Warriors these include the Great Wall, Shaanxi History Museum and the Green Dragon temple. All of which can be visited on day 6.
Day 7- Head Home
Take the morning flight to Beijing Airport to catch your connecting international flight back home.
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Top ways to give back
With the busy stressful lives we lead, it’s very easy to get stuck in our own little world with our own problems, not paying attention to the bigger picture. One of the best ways to get you out of a self-pity rut is to learn and appreciate what you have, compared to others in this world who are suffering and start giving back. The easiest way to do this is by donating money to charities like Unicef, where every donation makes a difference, big or small. Here are some other top ways to give back.
1. Start with giving back at home
Sometimes it’s good to look in your own backyard if you want to start giving back. Go and volunteer at your local homeless shelter or even buy the next homeless person you see some lunch. Your local animal shelter will always be in need of volunteers, or simple donations like old towels and sheets.
2. Run your own charity event
If you have a particular charity in mind, or cause then it’s very easy to raise funds by running your own charity event. This can be as simple as running a bake sale at work, or doing a charity funded sports event. Get creative with ways to raise money. I’ve seen everything from music gigs, cocktail parties, clothes swaps, art shows, yoga classes, dinner parties as ways to raise funds.
3. Volunteer overseas
When heading overseas it can be about something more then just having a nice holiday. There are so many great organisations and charities out there that you can go and volunteer through. I was lucky enough to spend some time in Cambodia volunteering for a local organization called NFO. I taught English to young school children that wouldn’t have had the opportunity to get an education had it not been for this organisation. Teaching isn’t the only thing you can do overseas, so look into the different organisations and find a cause dear to your heart. Perhaps it’s with the animals in Africa or working with refugees.
4. Do something nice for your neighbours
Sometimes giving back is just about doing something nice for someone just because, and expecting nothing in return. When was the last time you spoke to your neighbours, let alone made them a cake or took their rubbish out. We are so disconnected and disengaged from our community these days where no one even looks at each other in the eyes, let alone says hello. So maybe next time you are doing some baking, take some over to your neighbours and say hello. You’ll be surprised at the warm fuzzies you get from giving back, just because.
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Why I’m Quitting Social Media for 12 Days + I’m in Burma
After 2.5 months on the road, things feel different to how they first did when I started traveling some four years ago. That’s to be expected, of course, but it’s not necessarily a good different. I can’t really remember the last day I went out, without my iPhone, and just got lost. Taking photos was my biggest passion and it’s pretty hard to do if you’re too busy scrolling Facebook to notice what’s going on around you.
While I love being so easily connected to friends and family, I think our ultra-connected lifestyle isn’t that healthy. We’re so busy catching up on things elsewhere, that we’re not present.
So when my friend Stacey, another travel blogger at OneTravelsFar, and I decided to go to Burma we decided we’d give up social media. The thought of 12 days without Facebook made me anxious; what would I do in those boring lulls of travel if I could not pointlessly scroll through my Facebook feed?
I’d be present. Looking around, noticing the small details that make the world beautiful, instead of starring at pixels on a screen.
So, it has been decided. 12 days without Instagram, Facebook or Twitter. If you see anything on my Facebook or Twitter, it will be posted by my lovely assistant, Kristia!
I’m gifting myself 12 days of letting myself really fall in love with Burma.
While I appreciate that Facebook is an amazing tool for keeping in touch, especially as someone who has no fixed address, I do find aspects of it sad. It is changing our culture and how we interact with people. It’s a synthetic representation of our lives.
When was the last time you went a restaurant and didn’t see half of the customers glued to their phone? I can’t remember a time in the past few years that this hasn’t been true, except in some of the third world countries I’ve visited.
I want to fill the time I’d otherwise fritter away on social media soaking up as much as possible. Being present. Breathing it all in.
One of my goals of this trip was to be able to answer the question to “Where’s your favourite place?” with wherever I currently was. That’s all you have. The places in your memories are moments long gone. All you have is now.
Well after two days in Burma, I can honestly answer that question with: right here, right now.
There’s a special charm to Yangon that has me hypnotised. A curiosity about the outside world that is delicately balanced with a strong sense of preservation.
ALL of my interactions with each and every single person I’ve met in Burma, thus far, have been extremely pleasent. From a waiter in a restaurant who handed me back 20 cents because I’d overpaid due to my failing math skills, to the guy in the telephone shop that gave my blue eyes the “thumbs up” because he couldn’t express in words how much he liked them.
There are really few places in the world where I can honestly say that I have been so warmly embraced by a culture while being given enough privacy and space to soak it in all my own pace. The people are warm, kind, and there’s no hustling, no haggling and no being blatantly ripped off.
The drive from the airport to Yangon city center was interesting, you could see that buildings were popping up in every direction. There are lots of signs in English. Things are changing, and perhaps faster and more dramatically than anywhere else in this region.
If you can visit Burma, based on my two days here so far, go as soon as possible. There’s something special about this place…
