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The Smarter Way to Travel™

Author Archives: Vincent I. Porter

  1. Top 4 North American City Breaks

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    A city break is the perfect way to get away from home for a bit if you don’t have all that much time on your hands. Ideal for a long weekend, the city break allows you to rejuvenate and get a change of scenery. And, let’s be honest, we all need one of those from time to time.

    While it is often thought that Europe is the exclusive home of the city break, there is a lot to be said for transplanting this activity to North America. Filled with lively, bustling cities that are jam-packed with great museums, restaurants, parks, bars and more, you might just be surprised at how much fun you could have in this part of the world.

    New York

    The city that never sleeps, New York is the number one option for people looking for a city break in North America. It has literally everything you need for an unforgettable trip. Why not check out one of its thousands of quirky restaurants like Pokéworks, which serves sushi burritos or Raclette, which specialises in cheese.

    Once you’ve eaten your fill, take to the streets and be the ultimate tourist as you taken in the sights and sounds. Ascend the Empire State Building, shop til you drop on Fifth Avenue and take a stroll through Central Park. Then, at the end of the day, make your way to the Meatpacking District for a cocktail or two.

    Toronto

    Want a city break but aren’t too keen on the idea of hitting up the USA? Head up North to the friendliest country in the world and check out the Canadian gem that is Toronto. Not only will you be greeted with smiles everywhere you go, but you can stuff yourself silly with Poutine or something a bit more gourmet in one of Toronto’s finest eateries.

    Be sure to make room in your itinerary to explore the St. Lawrence Market while you’re in Toronto. Even if you don’t buy anything, the market is great just for browsing. You should also check out the CN Tower for some stunning views of the city and the enchanting Casa Loma to be transported back in time.

    Chicago

    Perhaps the thing that most surprises first-time Chicago visitors is just how beautiful the city is. Honestly, it really is quite stunning. Here, skyscrapers are significantly outnumbered by trees with leafy areas abound and a sparkling river that branches off into magical canals throughout the city. Yet, Chicago is so much more than just a pretty face.

    Start your day by ogling some architecture in Millennium Park or by wandering along the gorgeous Chicago Riverwalk. Those looking for some culture can then proceed to one of the city’s fantastic museums or the The Second City – a comedy venue that put the likes of Bill Murray and Tina Fey on the map.

    Boston

    A lot of people think of pizza when they think of Boston. And with good reason. Pizza places like Picco and A4 Pizza have been churning out top quality pies for a while now and keeping Bostonians and tourists very satisfied as they have done so. But, aside from its culinary treats, Boston has a lot more to offer.

    For history buffs, the Freedom Trail is an absolute must. This route stretches a mere 2.5 miles and covers 16 sites that were of notable significance in the Revolutionary War. If you have an eye for aesthetics and appreciate beauty then a trip to the ICA (Institute of Contemporary Art) should also be on your to-do list whilst in Boston.

  2. 5 Reasons to Spend your Summer in the Canary Islands

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    Choosing somewhere to spend your precious summer vacation can be challenging. It’s a big world but it’s harder than you might think to find a place that ticks all the boxes. Fortunately, the Canary Islands have everything you need for an unforgettable summer vacation. These little Spanish islands are constantly bathed in glorious sunshine and have a very good tourism infrastructure, having long been a favourite with mainland Spaniards and other Europeans. So let’s take a deeper look at exactly what makes the Canary Islands the perfect holiday destination.

    The Weather is Always Perfect

    As I already mentioned, the sun is always shining in the Canary Islands, which means there is never a bad time to visit. It is hot but it is also not so hot that it can’t be enjoyed. The temperature remains pretty consistently in the 20s throughout the year – occasionally peaking in the low 30s when summer comes around. This makes the islands a mecca for pasty foreigners looking for a bit of a glow before they have to go back to work.

    You Can Be a Water Baby

    When the sun comes out, there is nothing better than plunging head first into a cool body of water. A lot of accommodation options in the Canary Islands come with pools for this very reason but if, for whatever reason, you don’t have a pool on hand, there are plenty of other options. Of course, the next best option is to jump into the big natural pool known as the sea. But, if salt water isn’t your thing, then head over to Siam Park waterpark in Tenerife for water slides and wave pools galore.

    The Beaches are Gorgeous

    If you do decide to throw yourself into the sea for a bit then there are worse places than the Canary Islands to do so. The beaches here are exactly what you would get if you typed paradise into Google images. White sand sparkles under the sun’s rays until it meets the cool turquoise of the sea. You could easily spend your whole summer vacation on these pristine shores.

    There are Loads of Volcanoes

    Picturesque beaches and volcanic mountains might seem like contrasting images but in the Canary Islands, they go together like cheese and crackers. If you can tear yourself away from the pool for a few hours then you should definitely hike up one of these bad boys in Lanzarote. The views from the top can be pretty spectacular and you’ll feel like you’ve actually accomplished something when you reach the summit. Don’t worry, the volcanoes aren’t active so you needn’t worry about an impromptu eruption.

    Every Island Offers Something Different

    Far from being a homogenous archipelago, every single one of the Canary Islands offers something completely different. From the partying in Tenerife to the beauty of Fuerteventura to the rugged landscapes of Lanzarote, there is a whole world of opportunities to be found on these islands. Research each island before you make your decision about where to go so you can work out which island is right for you. Whichever one you choose, you are guaranteed the time of a lifetime.

  3. Top 5 UK Holidays

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    Usually the word holiday conjures up images of jetting off to foreign lands and spending thousands of pounds for the privilege. But, sometimes we just don’t have the time or the money to go abroad. Luckily, if it’s looking like the Seychelles isn’t an option this year, there are plenty of holiday spots in the UK that will give you that much needed rest and relaxation without breaking the bank in the process. With cities steeped in history and some gorgeous countryside, holidaying in the UK is a lot better than you might think. Here is our list of the top 5 best UK holiday destinations and what makes them so great.

    The Lake District

    If you want British countryside at its best then there is nowhere better than the Lake District. Immerse yourself in the untapped natural beauty and admire the lush rolling hills that stretch out to the horizon. Of course, hiking is the main activity here – making the Lake District the perfect spot for lovers of the great outdoors. You can also try your hand at some watersports on Lake Windermere if you’re feeling particularly adventurous. In the evening, be sure to seek out some of the gastropubs that are becoming more and more numerous in the little villages here.

    Salcombe

    It is unlikely that you would ever use the words ‘UK’ and ‘stunning beach’ in the same sentence. But, Salcombe will give you the opportunity to do so. Sitting right in the South of the country, this gorgeous little town is as laidback as it is picturesque. A hotspot for surfing, sailing and fishing, the town attracts an eclectic crowd from all over who are united by their mutual love of the sea. The water might not be as warm here as it is in the Mediterranean but don’t let that put you off. Salcombe is also well known for its mouth-watering fudge – just saying…

    Cotswalds

    A trip to the Cotswalds is like being transported to a different era. Complete with verdant hills, quirky museums and plenty of cobbled streets to explore, it is easy to see why people go back year after year. While many migrate here for the summer for lazy evenings sipping wine in the evening heat, there is a lot to be said for a winter trip to the Cotswalds. Not only will the crowds be drastically smaller, but you will be able to snuggle up with friends and family in one of the cosy pubs and watch the snow fall outside. Magical.

    Bath

    Bath is without a doubt one of the most beautiful cities in the country so it should come as little surprise that it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. If you plan on spending a few days in this pristine little city then the first thing on your agenda should be hitting the thermals baths. It was these natural hot springs that gave the city its name and they are the only ones of their kind left in England. Once you’re done soaking, have a wander through the streets and lap up the spectacular architecture.

    Edinburgh

    The capital of Scotland, Edinburgh is a multi-faceted city that caters to a wide range of visitors. There is no denying that Edinburgh is a big, bustling city jam-packed with plenty of restaurants, bars, theatres, museums and shops. But, this city is more than just a metropolis. Go just a few miles out of the city centre and you will find the magnificent Edinburgh Castle as well as Arthur’s Seat, a popular hiking spot with some historical significance. Time your trip for August and you will also see the city in the throes of the world famous Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Make sure you plan your trip in advance though, accommodation during the festival fills up months before.

  4. Top 5 Destinations for Foodies

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    Some people eat to live – that is to say that food is a necessity to live and not much more. At the other end of the spectrum are people who live to eat. For these individuals, food is one of the most important things in their life. I admit that I fall into the latter category. I love food. I love trying exotic new dishes as well as variations of old favourites. So, when it comes to vacations, a destination’s culinary scene is an essential factor as I choose where to go. After years of travelling, I can confirm that these are the top destinations for foodies.

    Mexico

    Let’s start with an obvious one. There is a reason that Mexican food is one of the most popular cuisines in the world. If you’ve ever had a taco at your local Mexican joint and thought: “hey, this is pretty good”, wait until you try one in Mexico. Fresh and delicious, Mexican food is a whirlwind of flavours and if you’re on that avocado hype at the moment you will be pleased to know that avocado comes with pretty much every dish. Oh, and food in Mexico is really, really cheap – win-win.

    India

    We all love a good curry but what you think of as Indian food is very different to what they actually eat in India. You won’t find many tikka masalas in this magnificent country but you will come across so many other culinary delights that you won’t even care. With much of the population being vegetarian; lentils, veggies and paneer (a special kind of Indian cheese) are common ingredients in curries. India also has all kinds of other dishes that are not in curry form, including an incredible veggie burger made from potato, vegetables and spices.

    South Korea

    When you think about food from East Asia, your mind probably conjures up images of sushi in Japan and sweet and sour chicken in China. Very rarely will your first thought be of South Korea. However, this wonderful little country really packs a punch when it comes to dinnertime. From fried chicken covered in spicy sauce to steaming bowls of noodles, the cuisine here is as varied as it is mouth-watering. A must-try is bibimbap, which consists of rice, veggies, meat and spicy sauce with an egg on top, served in a hot stone bowl so it never gets cold.

    France

    Of course, no foodie destination list is complete without including the land of wine and cheese. France has long been regarded as the King of the global cuisine scene. Gastronomy is important here and it shows. Those lucky Frenchies have all kinds of sensational dishes at their disposal, including confit de canard (slow-cooked duck), moules frites (mussels and fries) and coq au vin (chicken in white wine sauce). They also have a million different kinds of cheeses to choose from, all of which should be accompanied by fresh baguette or crackers and followed by the best pastry you have ever tasted in your life.

    Israel

    Middle Eastern cuisine is a real up and comer at the moment and Israel seems to be spear-heading the movement. If you find yourself in Israel or have an Israeli restaurant near you at home then be sure to give it a go. Get yourself some crunchy falafel and a bowl a smooth hummus, served with soft, warm pitta. Need something more substantial? Go for a plate of shawarma or a skillet of shakshuka, a traditional dish that contains eggs, tomatoes, chilli peppers and various different spices, including but not limited to cumin.

  5. Best Summer Alpine Vacation Spots

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    The idea of an Alpine vacation usually conjures up images of freshly fallen snow blanketing mountains and peppered with recreational skiers. But, did you know that the Alps are just as appealing to visit in the summer? During the summer you can leave your skis and winter gear at home, strap on some hiking boots and make the most of one of the most stunning landscapes on the continent. With plenty of hours of sunshine, beautiful green slopes in every direction and fresh mountain air filling you lungs, you’ll wonder why you’ve only just discovered the beauty of summer in the Alps. So, to get you started, here is a list of some of our favourite summer Alpine vacation spots.

    Wilder Kaiser, Austria

    Home to some of the best glaciers in Europe and a top ski destination, Austria has just as much to offer summer visitors – and for a much more reasonable price! In the Wilder Kaiser region you will be able to peacefully explore the little villages that are usually packed with snow sports fanatics. There are also plenty of activities on offer from the Austrian tourist board, who have done their best to please summer holiday-makers with free transport, discounted guided hikes and hundreds of electric bikes.

    Tignes, France

    If you are looking for picture-perfect natural beauty then look no further than Tignes. Spending your summer vacation in the alpine resort of Tignes allows you to combine hiking, biking and running around in the great outdoors with a wide range of water-based sports thanks to the region’s huge lake, Lac de Tignes. You can get even get your hands on a SPORTIGNES card, which gives you access to archery, trampolines, tennis and more.

    Bavaria, Germany

    The great thing about the German Alps is that they have something for everyone. If you’re the outdoorsy type then get ready for the summer vacation of a lifetime with hiking trails galore. If you prefer something a bit more cultural then you’re in luck too as Bavaria is speckled with gorgeous old castles that you can explore and take photos of at your leisure. If neither of these activities float your boat then you can go for a stroll around the lake, play some golf or even take a cheese making class. Bavaria is your oyster.

    Alta Badia, Italy

    Italy is one of those countries that has everything. From the historical and architectural masterpieces in the cities to the sparkling coastline, Italy is a dream destination. However, one part of the country that is often overlooked by summer holiday-makers is its mountainous region. Alta Badia is the perfect spot for anyone who considers cycling around with the staggering Dolomite mountains in the background as an ideal vacation. This region is also known for having some pretty outstanding food so you’ll be well taken care of after your two-wheeled expeditions.

    Zermatt, Switzerland

    There is no place on earth like the Swiss Alps and Zermatt is the crème de la crème of Switzerland’s Alpine resorts. Not only is it home to the legendary Matterhorn, Europe’s highest Alpine peak, but it is also known for its summer skiing opportunities. Race down the slopes wearing just a t-shirt as you soak up the sunshine on one of Zermatt’s glaciers. If you’re not keen on skiing then consider some hiking or even a helicopter ride with spectacular views instead.

  6. The Taylor Statten Camps: A True Kid’s Vacation

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    Is there anything better than summer camp? Weeks on end swimming in lakes and taking part in a whole host of activities from horse riding to archery and sailing – it’s a kid’s Nirvana. But, not all summer camps were created equal. If you are looking for a premium summer camp that is going to have your kids begging to go back year after year then look no further than The Taylor Statten Camps. These camps are so amazing that they are even endorsed by Justin Trudeau, Canada’s Prime Minister, who attended the camps as a child. So, what makes The Taylor Statten Camps so special?

    The Location

    The number one stand-out feature of The Taylor Statten Camps is the location. The camps sit on the banks of the glistening Canoe Lake, deep within Algonquin Park in Ontario, Canada. Lush forests surround the accommodation on every side and each morning the sun rises to the sound of birdsong. Even young children are capable of appreciating the sublime beauty of this magical location. There are even wild animals such as beavers, foxes and squirrels within the forest. Campers will have the chance to spot some of these animals in their natural habitat from a safe distance – this makes for a pretty incredible experience.

    The Activities

    The Taylor Statten Camps offer a huge array of different activities, ranging from active to sedentary; to keep your kid physically and mentally stimulated every day they are at camp. The activities on offer include archery, horse riding, yoga, swimming, paddle boarding and many, many more. There are also the options of pottery and weaving at Wapomeo (the girls camp) and ball hockey at Ahmek (the boys camp). All of the activities are supervised by trained counsellors who guide and nuture the campers. At least once a week, the boys and girls camps come together for activities all together – so your child will have an even greater opportunity to make friends.

    Canoe Trips

    Alumni of The Taylor Statten Camps are pretty much universal in their agreement that the canoe tripping was the highlight of camp and indeed of any summer. Trips vary in length from one day to 50 days and give participants the chance to see some of the most beautiful parts of Ontario in all their natural glory. The more experienced the camper, the longer they will be able to spend on their canoe trip. This journey is so much more than just a fun holiday on the water. The canoe trip gives each child the chance to work both independently and as part of a team. The bonds they formed on the way will be unbreakable and their sense of accomplishment will last forever.

    Core Values

    It’s all well and good talking about all the fun and games that go on in The Taylor Statten Camps but what about the ethos of the camp? How is this summer camp going to help nurture and develop your child? The core values of The Taylor Statten Camps revolve around teamwork, appreciation for nature and community. Children are supposed to fully immerse themselves in camp culture and embrace the ‘back to basics’ traditional way of life here. Electricity is sparse and campers are expected to swap their cell phones for real-life conversations. There is no doubt that every child will leave camp feeling revitalised and over the moon with the new relationship they have formed during their time there.

  7. Beachside Bliss: How to Beach Like a Pro

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    It’s a depressing fact that the majority of us spend 9 months of the year eagerly awaiting the arrival of summer. And when summer finally hits, everything changes. Summer dresses, shorts and flip-flops come out in full force and the only thing on everyone’s mind is how quickly they can get to a beach. Some of us can drive down the road for a bit of sandy goodness and some of us need to fly to a different country. But, whatever it takes, we will get there. So, you’ve got getting to the beach sorted, now you need to know how to make the most of your time there. These simple beach hacks should have you feeling like a VIP from the moment your feet touch the sand.

    Waterproof You Electronics

    We all want to take photos of our friends/kids/significant others splashing around in the sea but we also don’t want to risk getting water or sand in our phones or cameras. By popping your electronics in a sandwich bag you will stop it from getting wet and still be able to use the touch screen. Now you don’t need to worry about breaking your iPhone when you’re wading out waist deep to take the perfect Instagram snap. This also works with money that you don’t want to get wet.

    Create Your Space

    If you are going to spend a long time at the beach then you are going to want to make yourself as comfortable as possible. One great way to make your own little beach paradise is to build a bohemian tent. You can do this easily using large sticks and a couple of sheets. Alternatively, take a fitted sheet and put something heavy in each of its corners to make a little beachside playpen – this is ideal for babies. Throw in some blankets or towels, pillows and snacks and you’ve got a VIP beach den for you and your friends.

    Stock Up on Baby Powder

    This magical substance is an absolutely essential post-beach product. The powder sucks all of the water out of any wet sand that is clinging to your skin, making it super easy to brush off. Anyone who has ever had to deep clean their car after a trip to the beach will certainly appreciate the power of this simple trick. It will also leave your skin feeling soft and smelling nice so it’s an all round winner.

    Sunscreen is Your Friend

    It doesn’t matter if it is a bit overcast – you need to lather up with sunscreen. Even on a cloudy day 80% of the suns UV rays can penetrate your skin. Around 15 minutes before you step out in the sun you should cover yourself with sunscreen. Once you are in the sun you should be reapplying at least once every two hours and even more if you are constantly going in and out of the water. Keeping your skin protected will stop you getting burnt and also prevent skin cancer and other nasty problems.

  8. Travel that Makes Memories

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    Someone once said “travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer” and you will never know how true this really is until you yourself have travelled. The world is becoming smaller everyday with budget airlines making foreign lands far more accessible. This means there has never been a better time to travel than right now. So, hop on a plane and open your eyes to cultures and experiences that you never even knew existed. Whatever you do, you will come away with memories, but there are a few things you can do to make sure your memories are the best they can be.

    Say Yes to Everything

    Chances are you will only ever be cruising along a river in Myanmar or swinging in a hammock in the Amazon Rainforest once in your life. With this in mind, you should say yes to every opportunity that comes your way. You never regret the things you do, only the things you didn’t do. You might be terrified of the idea of jumping off a cliff into a lagoon but imagine how proud you will be when you actually do it. Similarly, you might not be keen on trying some weird local dish, but, who knows, you might end up loving it – and if not, it makes for a good story!

    Keep Ticket Stubs

    Ticket stubs are a great way to collect tangible memories. Take a little pocketbook or folder and stuff it full of train tickets, entry stubs and boarding passes. You will be able to go through it years later and remember the story behind each ticket you come across. If you plan on making a scrapbook about your travels, these make good decorations and prompts for amusing anecdotes – of which you are sure to have plenty.

    Live in the Moment

    One of the worst things about travelling – especially if you are on the road for a while – is that you are constantly thinking about the future. Where will you go tomorrow? How will you get there? What will you do when you get back home? It can be hard to switch these thoughts off but you should give it a go nonetheless. Try and focus 100% on what you are doing in that exact moment, without thinking about what comes next. This will allow you to be fully absorbed in the moment and to enjoy it much more. A sure-fire way to create sterling travel memories.

    Talk to People

    Without a doubt, one of the best ways to create amazing travel memories is by talking to people. Local people are usually very happy to give you advice, tell you about their city or just to chat to you. Spend some time getting to know the people of whichever city you end up in and your experience will improve dramatically. Ask for restaurant recommendations or quiz them on what sights you should be seeing. They might let you in on a local secret (some sort of hidden gem that isn’t in the guidebooks) and this could be the best part of your entire trip.

    Learn

    Before you even get on the plane, you should do some research about where you are going. Learning a bit about the history and culture of a country will help you contextualise what you see and experience while you are there. It will also explain why the country is the way it is today. If you went to Cambodia without knowing about Pol Pot’s dictatorship, a lot of what you saw wouldn’t make sense. Once you get there, carry on learning. Expand your knowledge of the country and you will have a much richer experience.

  9. Vacation of a Lifetime

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    There are some places in the world that offer more than just your average holiday destination. Some places that require saving for, planning vigorously and scooping your jaw up off the floor when you see and do things you never even dreamed of. These destinations are where we go when we want the vacation of a lifetime. But, where are these mystical places and how do we make the most of our time there? VIP Upgrades has scoured the planet to create the ultimate list of vacation destinations that are guaranteed to blow your mind.

    The Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

    Universally known for its astonishing flora and fauna, the Galapagos Islands have been fascinating visitors since Darwin first visited in 1835. Travel around the islands on a cruise ship, stopping off along the way to ogle the iguanas, boobys and sea lions that call this magical part of the world home. You’ll also want to keep an eye out for the famous Galapagos tortoises. The archipelago is made up of 20 islands, 13 of which are considered ‘major islands’. Each island has its own appeal and all of them are worth taking the time to explore.

    Myanmar

    Only recently opened for tourism, Myanmar is the only country left in Southeast Asia that hasn’t been tainted by an unfathomable influx of foreigners. Maintaining an authentic charm that is utterly captivating, Myanmar is perfect for a vacation of a lifetime. From the temples of Bagan to the bustling streets of Mandalay, the country is a delicate mélange of antiquity and modernity, surrounded by swathes of untamed nature. Sample the local cuisine, cruise along the Irrawaddy River and immerse yourself in a culture that has been preserved for centuries.

    Namibia

    Everyone dreams of going on a real African safari and seeking out the Big 5 and there is no better place than Namibia to convert this dream into a reality. Not only does Namibia offer the Etosha National Park and other wildlife-viewing hotspots, but it also has an array of activities outside of your safari. For example, you could drive along the eery Skeleton Coast; scramble over rocks in Spitzkoppe; and marvel at the sand dunes of Sossusvlei. You can also wander through the streets of Windhoek, the capital, or chill out at the beach in Swakopmund. The possibilities are truly endless.

    India

    India is a difficult beast to tame but if you have the time and patience it might just prove to be the vacation of lifetime. Enormous in size and populated with over a billion people, India requires more than just a week of two. Give yourself as long as possible to make the most of its numerous climates, landscapes and cultures. Be sure to spend some time in the Himalaya region up North before exploring the thriving cities of New Delhi and Mumbai. End your trip in the South, lounging on a beach in Goa, seeing the ruins of Hampi or checking out the lush jungle of Kerala.

    Russia

    When we think of Russia, we usually think of its two main cities: Moscow and St Petersburg. But, this gigantic country has a lot more to offer than just them. Once you’re done with the Kremlin and The Hermitage, head out of the city and take in some of Russia’s stunning natural wonders. A day or two on the banks of Lake Baikal is time well spent as is time getting to know places like Yekaterinburg and Sochi. Be sure to wrap up warm though, it can get pretty chilly in this part of the world!

  10. Where to Go on a Trip

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    Sometimes you only need a day or two to get the lay of the land of a new destination. In these cases, spending any more than a few days in said place can become rather tedious. The best advice I can give you is to know what kind of destination you are going to before deciding how long to travel there for. For example, you probably don’t need to spend two weeks in a city, but it’s likely that you would want to spend that long somewhere with loads of nature, beaches and great day trip opportunities. So, how do you know how long to spend somewhere? Well, everyone is different and everyone has different tastes but generally speaking I would recommend spending the following amount of time in the following places to give you an idea of how to do things.

    A Long Weekend:

    Paris, France

    This incredible city has a lot to offer but the hustle and bustle can get a bit much if you’re there for too long. A long weekend is the perfect amount of time to gawp at the wonders of the Louvre, stroll along the seine and fill up on crêpes before heading home.

    New York, USA

    The city that never sleeps is one of the most famous places on earth and is the ideal destination for a long weekend. Seek out the city’s cool art galleries and be a typical tourist at the Empire State Building for a few days here. Oh and be sure to tuck into a bagel or two while you’re there.

    1 Week

    Cancun, Mexico

    There is a lot more to Cancun that just parties and spring breakers (although it has these in abundance). Travellers can easily spend a week snorkelling in the warm water and taking day trips to see the stunning nature that surrounds the area. Spend at least one day out of the city to explore some authentic Mexican culture.

    Egypt

    Whether you want history, city or beach, Egypt just about has it all. If you are looking for a bit of adventure spend the day checking out the world famous Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx. Alternatively splash around in the Red Sea and dry off on the beach afterwards.

    Two Weeks

    Sri Lanka

    There is never too long to spend in Sri Lanka but not everyone has the luxury of prancing around the world forever. In this case, two weeks should suffice. Not only does Sri Lanka have one of the most stunning coastlines in the world but it also has rolling hills covered in verdant tea plantations and hundreds of breath-taking temples. You’ll never have a dull moment on this amazing island.

    South Africa

    The southernmost tip of the mighty African continent, South Africa has an array of wonders waiting to delight visitors. Simply driving along the scenic Garden Route is enough to make your jaw drop. Add in some cage diving and a whole load of delicious cuisine and you might just have the holiday of a lifetime.