Posts by : Izy Berry

Traveling can be hard work, you need to be mindful of what you take with you, trying to find a balance between packing as light as possible but still having everything you need. Here are my suggestion of essential products to travel with that will ensure you travel comfortably.

1) A Good Skincare Regime

Just because you’re on holiday doesn’t mean you can neglect your skin. Actually when you’re traveling you should put in a little more effort as you’ll be in the sun more, and probably more exposed to the elements such as salt water, wind and pollution. Whether you have sensitive skin or normal skin it’s important that you find a skin care regime that is tailored for your skin.

2) Packing Cubes

I can’t get over how useful these are. I can fit so much more stuff in a confined space with my packing cubes. It also helps me to organise my clothing better than ever. The great thing about packing cubes is that they’re pretty inexpensive and totally reusable, so once you have a set you’re good to go. I tend to take three packing cubes with me, one of each size: large, medium and small. If you haven’t tried them already, get onto it.

3) An Ebook Reader

There’s absolutely no way I could carry 60+ books in my backpack, but that’s what I do every single time I travel thanks to my ebook reader. It’s perfect for long flights, long waits, when I’m stuck waiting for a bus that was supposed to show up three hours ago and so on. It really helps pass the time quickly.

4) A Smartphone

Yes, yes, I know. Not everyone has a smartphone and not everyone wants one. Fair enough. But I find mine so useful for its maps, keeping in touch with friends and family at home and of course the camera. I have a better quality camera but wind up using my phone camera so much because it’s always on hand. I think for the price of a smartphone, it’s so many useful tools in one.

What products do you love to travel with?

You stare out at the doldrums of your daily life – the nine to five, the evenings watching game shows, the same meals every day – and think, “My word, I’m bored.”

Indeed, it’s a feeling we all have from time to time. That need to drag yourself out from the rut of sheer boredom.

Wouldn’t it be lovely to just throw a dart into a map, pick a destination and jet off to some sun kissed paradise?

Well, that’s exactly what we’ve done. Using Heathrow Airport as our base of operations, we’ve picked some flights at random, dropped our car off at the Heathrow meet and greet, and had a ball in a foreign wonderland – all to report back to you.

What did we find?

Malaga

People visit Malaga for the sun, but many more stick around for the stunning architecture and wealth of things to do.

The capital of Andalusia, this is a buzzing haven of sun, the type of place where you can sit anywhere and watch the world pass you by.

For a start, give the Picasso Museum a visit. The home of cubism, this museum will make you fall in love with those angular shapes and curious colours.

Once you’ve filled your mind with culture, why not fill your stomach with some sweet red wine? A speciality in the region, your best place for a gulp of grape is La Casa del Guardia, the oldest tavern in Malaga – and arguably the best.

Alicante

Another sunny bastion in Spain, the historic port of Alicante is perfect for those searching for fresh sea air and more yachting adventures than you can shake sangria at.

Those on the hunt for seaside adventures would do well to visit the Port of Alicante. Filled with historic architecture, simmering heat and the gentle thrashing of the waves against lilting yachts, the port is exactly what you need to chillax.

But if you fancy an air conditioned space that’ll get your brain cells working, head to the Alicante Museum of Contemporary Art. Filled with a dazzling array of works, you won’t regret your visit.

New York

New Yoik, as the locals call it, is the city where something is always happening. Whether it’s the sell-out shows on Broadway, fine pizzerias on every street corner or a hip art scene that’s thrived in popular imagination, you won’t run out of cultural behemoths to peruse.

When you first hit the Big Apple, take a trip around the classics – the Empire State Building, Statue of Liberty and Rockefeller Plaza. They’re tourist hotspots for a reason.

Moreover, if you are looking to jet off to your destination perched on the lap of luxury, consider a private flight to NYC to ensure your travels start off on the right foot. Keep in mind that comfort and luxury is never a bad combination.

And if you’re feeling peckish, why not head to the finest restaurant in the city? Narcissa offers a vast menu, friendly staff and delicious foods. So, grab a bite and enjoy yourself.

It could be argued that – over the years – Las Vegas’ image has been both a blessing and a curse to the city. The Nevada settlement has grown and grown and grown, with its fame and status doing exactly the same, but for many years it was coming up against something of a glass ceiling. That glass ceiling is now being shattered by – ironically – some big glass buildings, among other things. Today Vegas is not just about dice rolling across tables, but about currency cards being swiped in some of the world’s most upmarket stores and restaurants.

Las Vegas’ traditional image – that of neon and kitsch, Elvis and the Rat Pack, buffets and roulette tables – was never a problem for the millions of people that visited each year in the late 20^th Century. And indeed those are the associations that continue to attract a vast percentage of the city’s tourists today. But the city has had a few hurdles to come in order to make sure visitor numbers grow, and it would appear that the powers that be keep getting this right.

First of all Las Vegas needed to become more family friendly. That box was pretty much ticked some years ago when the present-day “Strip” came to life. Once a town where the neon signs were the cheery facades purely for drinking and games, there are now themed hotels like Treasure Island and Excalibur that will excite kids both big and small. There’s family entertainment and toy stores, and the hotel pools are populated with inflatable cartoon characters and water guns.

For a city where more than anywhere else, money is its lifeblood, the next big challenge for Las Vegas however was bringing in that money. Vegas simply wasn’t tapping into a lucrative market of people who seek style and sophistication. For people who can holiday in Paris or Venice in a whim, hotels replicating them were not enough to attract them to Nevada.

Once again though Las Vegas has adapted and – alongside all the other features that make it popular with people from all walks of life – is delivering a more classy experience for its visitors. Central to this is the CityCenter development on the Strip.

CityCenter comprises a cluster of hotels, game sites and condominium towers – all striking, glass and metal structures; more Manhattan or Dubai than Treasure Island. There are upmarket stores and restaurants, and one of the largest public art collections – valued at over $40 million – in the USA. Part of that collection is housed in the sumptuous Mandarin Oriental Hotel.

Meanwhile the multi currency card is a common sight further along the Strip at the Fashion Show mall. Louis Vuitton, Saks Fifth Avenue and Tiffany & Co. are among the highbrow names with premises in the centre.

A million leagues from the gentile activities and amenities traditionally associated with cruise holidays, the world’s first smartship – Quantum of the Seas – offers technologically-advanced excitement for sea-faring guests.

Rather than simply allowing you to enjoy all your beloved home comforts at sea, the Royal Caribbean ship seems determined to offer a high-tech experience straight out of a science fiction film.

Cruise ships have changed a lot in recent years – in this post we’re going to explore what we can expect from these revamped entertainment behemoths…

Photo Credit: Royal Caribbean

Improved Internet

Over the past 15 years, cruise lines have been trying to address the issue of offering high speed, inexpensive internet connectivity – even when hundreds of miles from land. As we’ve all become more dependent upon online services, super quick internet has become the cruise industry’s white whale – with all the major lines striving to improve their services.

Quantum of the Seas benefits from the fastest internet on a cruise ship, able to offer speeds comparable with the strongest on-land connections. Provided by O3b Networks, the connection is capable of supporting video chats, movie downloads and TV streams. Compared with other cruise lines which offer internet services which often struggle to download web-based images – the Quantum is miles ahead.

This feature certainly helps the Quantum appeal to perhaps the most difficult of all demographics, teenagers, who will invariably rather chat on Facebook than enjoy their holiday.

Photo Credit: Royal Caribbean

Technologically-Advanced Crew

As well as the robotic bartenders, the organic crew members aboard the Quantum of the Seas have received technological upgrades. Every crew member has received a Windows tablet device which allows them to access important passenger and ship information at the touch of a button. With a capacity of more than 4,000 guests, the crew can instantly check for any dietary or health requirements of any guest – allowing for a more personalised service.

A spokesperson for cruise travel agent, Cruise1st, explained: “As the demand for cruise holidays continues to grow, cruise lines are building bigger and bigger ships. Passionate cruise fans who have enjoyed cruise holidays for decades have voiced concerns this could compromise the personal service – however with improving technologies, the crew are able to offer the personal touch to a greater number of guests.”

Unique Activities

The Quantum of the Seas is the first cruise ship to play host to a skydiving simulator, the RipCord by iFly, positioned on the vessel’s top deck directly next to the surfing and body-boarding simulator.

Also located on the top deck is the NorthStar Observation Pod – a small glass pod which lifts passengers 300ft above sea level, offering incomparable views across the oceans and approaching landscapes.

The number of Royal Caribbean smartships will triple by next year as the Anthem of the Seas and Ovation of the Seas join the fleet in April 2015 and Summer 2016 respectively. This demonstrates a firm belief on the company’s behalf that cruise holidaymakers want a more futuristic and technologically-advanced experience.

From charming villages and culturally rich cities to beautiful beaches and captivating coastlines, Portugal boats a great deal of attractive qualities. But in addition to these alluring characteristics, the country also has a low-key and laid-back attitude, which makes it perfect for those wanting a relaxing break from the daily routine.

What’s more, every inch of Portugal’s stunning landscape has something special in store. So, regardless of where tourists and travellers decide to go, they’ll be greeted by a variety of beguiling sights and sounds.

Saga Travel makes holidays in Portugal happen throughout the year. If you’re thinking of visiting but aren’t sure what to do or where to go, these three locations and justifications should help you make the right decision.

Lisbon – For the history and culture

Despite benefitting from a gorgeous waterfront location and favourable yearlong climate, it could be argued that Lisbon’s finest assets are an intriguing history and various cultural attractions. After all, this is Europe’s second oldest capital and has witnessed countless changes over the years.

Be sure to visit Castelo de São Jorge (Castle of St George), which was the royal residence until the late 15th century, the impressive medieval Manueline architecture of Mosteiro dos Jerónimos (Hieronymite Monastery), and perhaps Lisbon’s most famous sight – Torre de Belém (Belém Tower).

Porto – For the food and drink

Like Lisbon, Porto is packed full of historic and artistic delights including the UNESCO-listed old city centre. However, this destination’s crowning glory has got to be its food and drink, especially the wine.

Despite the fact Portugal’s cuisine might not be as famous as neighbouring Spain, the fresh seafood diet featuring plenty of spice simply has to be sampled. However, this should always be accompanied by a glass of Porto’s finest wine. And as you might have guessed, this is where port comes from, so be sure to indulge in a tasting or two.

Madeira – For the landscape and scenery

Seeing as Madeira has earned the nickname “Pearl of the Atlantic,” you know that this island around 622 miles from mainland Portugal will be quite unique. With dramatic yet diverse landscapes in addition to a wide range of stunning flora and fauna, Madeira’s scenery has to be seen to be believed.

Island activities include a hike along ancient irrigation channels known as the Levadas, admiring the village of Santana’s architecture, climbing its highest peak of Pico Ruivo (1,862m/6,109ft) and enjoying a round of golf.

As you can see, Portugal provides a wide variety of holidaymakers with an equal amount of attractions and activities to enjoy and experience. Whether you choose to explore cultural cities such as Lisbon and Porto or decide to discover an awe-inspiring island like Madeira, this country is the place to do so.

Ah, Paris, it’s most girl’s dream destination and for good reason; one of the most romantic places in the world. If you love fashion, history, romance and amazing food then Paris is an obvious travel destination for you. Year after year Paris comes up as the most travelled to destination and if you are planning on visiting Paris then you should be sure to visit Versailles. Paris is so much more than the Eiffel tower and the Palace of Versailles or as the French call it – Château de Versailles – is a great way to see this.

What’s the Palace of Versailles?

Château de Versailles is a very important place in French history. Versailles is a wealthy suburb of Paris, some 20 km from the centre. Traditionally Versailles was a country town, but for over 100 years the palace of Versailles was the centre of France’s political power. But in the middle of the 17th century during Louis XIV’s reign, this palace is absolutely grand and has some beautifully manicured gardens that are worth the trip alone for.

At present there is a €400 million restoration program underway to update and restore the palace to its former glory. In saying that, it is still perhaps one of the most beautiful buildings in France and with such a rich history is an essential place to visit on any trip to Paris.

How to See the Palace of Versailles
It is possible to visit the Palace of versailles independently, by either taking public transport, a taxi or driving to the property yourself. However, due to the rich history and the size of the palace I would personally suggest that you consider taking a VIP tour of Versailles so you don’t miss out on any of the important rooms and get a full run down on all the important parts of history that took place here. In addition, when you take a VIP tour, you’ll get special access to areas that are closed off to the general public. I feel if you’re going to visit the palace, why not do it properly? It’s also nice to be able to enjoy some of the spaces without the crowds who are often present in the main areas of the palace.

I suggest that you plan to spend the entire day in the grounds and palace. You should also make some time to visit Marie Antoinette’s private home. Marie Antoinette was Queen of France and Navarre from 1774 to 1792. Considered very beautiful and charming, she held the French’s affection for some time before eventually being resented. She is considered to be an important part of French history and her home is absolutely stunning and a unique insight into French history.

No matter the time of year, a trip to visit the Palace of Versailles is essential. Don’t forget to take your camera!

Read more: http://www.lonelyplanet.com/france/versailles/sights/castles-palaces-mansions/chateau-de-versailles#ixzz3Qc6VARgC

This is one of the most common questions I get about my travels. How much does it cost? It’s such a broad question that depends on so many factors: Where are you going, how do you want to travel, are you staying in 5 star hotels or budget backpackers, how long do you plan to go for, do you want to do any specific activities? And the list goes on and on.

I can’t give you an estimation for how much your trip will cost and I think most people feel a little lost and intimidated when they’re planning their trip and the budget for it. I think the best piece of advice I can give you is to compare costs of the countries you’re visiting with that of your home country to get an idea of how much more – or less – things may cost. Also booking things in advance, especially if you’re traveling for a short period of time is a great way to get an accurate idea of what the trip is going to cost.

If you want to get an idea of how much other places around the world cost for things that you might be able to find in your own country, check out the following infographic. It is designed for a South African audience (so hello especially to any South Africans reading this) but it is still useful for anyone from any country. Just pop the amount into a currency convertor and change it to your home currency.

This infographic will help ensure you are more prepared financially for your next trip. What’s not to love about that?

I’m planning my trip to Europe at the end of April and I can’t wait to be somewhere new, experiencing new cultures, sights and of course, flavours. I love trying to new foods in different countries and Europe has such a great mix of cultures that offer so many different cuisines. From the starchy delights that are world-famous from Italy, to the hearty cuisines in the Czech Republic, I love trying something new.

I’m knuckling down to the planning stages of my trip and want to make sure that I experience some new places. I have a habit of going back to the same places over and over, but this time I’m looking for something new. Many of the countries in Europe host food festivals, which are a great opportunity to try some of the most famous dishes from the respective country in a busy and engaging environment. I’ve been playing around by this great infogrpahic by Travelex which allows you to choose country, find out about their national dish, best street food, average meal price and also when the most famous food festival is on.

If you’re planning a trip to Europe then this is a must-see, and even if you’re not and feel like getting some food inspiration, check it out below:

As someone who’s just become an expat, herself, the idea of moving overseas is something I’ve done a lot of research into. However, it’s hard to find information on where expats are going, how long they’re staying and all these other details which are particularly interesting if you’re contemplating the move yourself. I’ve been in Guatemala for nearly a week now and love it so far.

If you’re considering becoming an expat yourself, there are a lot of benefits including work opportunities, being able to explore a different region of the world and another country as well as the opportunity to immerse yourself in a completely new culture and even learn a new language, like I am.

Want to learn more about what other expats are doing? Why not check out this awesome infographic below. I really like it because it makes it easy to visually see where people are heading, how long they’re going for and the motivations behind their moves. If you’re on the fence about making the big leap, this might give you that final push you’ve been waiting for.

Many people worry about making the move abroad and the logistics of it, such as how to send money abroad or keep in touch with friends and family back home. Thankfully the Internet has made most things a LOT easier, so if you’ve been thinking about it, why not now?!