Family Holiday Destinations - Page 9
The world's best toy shops
Christmas may be over for another year, but there are still birthdays to be bought for and these four toy shops are a delight in themselves - and not just for the kids, either!The labyrinthine streets of Carcassonne
Sometimes when you're shooting the screen version of a novel, the best location is quite simply the actual setting of the book. That is clearly what three-time Oscar nominee Ridley Scott thought when he took the crew to Carcassone in the heart of France's Cathar country to shoot a new TV miniseries based on the bestselling novel, 'Labyrinth'.Celebrating an icy centenary
This week marks the centenary of Amundsen's successful expedition to the South Pole, and is the high point of a year of celebration at the other end of the planet, in Norway, homeland to Amundsen and other great explorers.Australia: the epic world Down Under
'Crocodile Dundee', 'Priscilla, Queen of the Desert', 'Mad Max', 'Matrix'... the vast land Down Under has been the backdrop for a string of blockbuster movies, but none show the sheer awe-inspiring magnificence of the country as well as the eponymous epic 'Australia'.Advent comes to Germany
The sparkle of Christmas lights, the bustle and jostle at decorated stalls, the delicious aroma of burnt-sugar almonds, the scent of spicy mulled wine, the sound of the orchestra striking up... All across Germany, Advent fairs are a feast for the senses.Twilighting in Washington State
The waves that lap at the beaches of the Olympic Peninsula, and the thick fog that envelops the dense forest here in the northwest corner of Washington State, create the appropriate atmosphere of mystery for the passionate relationship between Bella Swan and her vampire lover Edward Cullen, stars of the 'Twilight' saga and its latest instalment, 'Breaking Dawn'.In the land of the hobbits
The beautiful and varied landscapes of New Zealand provided the setting for Peter Jackson's 'Lord of the Rings' trilogy, one of the most successful film ventures of all time. From the peaceful Shire to the fires of Mordor, locations were found for the magical world of Middle-earth where hobbits, elves, dwarves and wizards live.Bruges, the home of fine chocolate
Belgian chocolate is possibly the finest in the world, so why not plan a getaway to the charming medieval city of Bruges, the capital of this delicacy, during 'Choc'in Brugge', a celebration of all aspects of the sweet delight?The Elvis influence
Liverpool may be the home of the Beatles, but there were plenty of other influences in their lives. And 'the King' was one. Now, the Fab Four's home city is hosting the unprecedented 'Elvis and Us' exhibition, which offers a chance to discover more about the relationship between these musical greats.Exploring Spain's San Sebastian and discovering 'Pintxos' – the way the Basques do 'tapas'
The Basque Country has its own particular take on Spanish 'tapas' – the wide range of tasty appetisers served alongside drinks in many bars across the country.Breathtaking road trips in Norway
By car or motorbike, a tour of Norway's most attractive tourist roads will take you across fjords and to views of breath-taking scenery as you drive for miles and miles through unspoiled countryside.Extreme Sailing comes to the Med
Catamarans that speed like the wind, world champion sailors and Olympic crews all come together in these adrenaline-fuelled races that take place so close to the coast that spectators can watch the action from ringside seats on the shore. This three-continent competition is currently in the Med, with dates in France and Spain in upcoming weeks.Huka Lodge, riverside elegance in New Zealand
Since it opened as a hotel in 1924, Huka Lodge has been a paradise for fishermen and other sportsmen, a haven where peace and tranquillity reign.The sheer beauty of the French 'fjords'
For a little over 20 kilometres, the steep white limestone cliffs of the French coastline between Cassis and Marseilles wiggle and twist to create the beautiful scenery of the Mediterranean 'fjords'. At their feet, the turquoise waters that have nibbled into the rock for centuries are a veritable paradise for scuba divers.Top ten plans for Marrakesh
Colours, perfumes, sun sets, palaces, palm trees, gardens and squares... Marrakesh is a fascinating city and a must-see destination. All around there are unique and special experiences awaiting the traveller; we've selected just a few of the best.Columbus sails into Madeira
From September 15th to 17th, the island of Porto Santo pays homage to the world's most famous navigator with a programme of events with all the flavour of the Age of Discovery.Enjoy a drink among Roman ruins
About a 100 kilometres from Barcelona, southwards along the Mediterranean coast, lies Tarragona, a seaside city with an ancient heritage. Once a favourite with the Roman emperors Augustus and Hadrian, now, the modern city boasts clean beaches, fine dining and plenty of architectural and cultural attractions for visitors.The southeastern tip of Spain
Even if you've never visited Spain, you may well recognise some of the views and landscapes of Cabo de Gata-Nijar from scenes on the big screen. With its hidden coves, peaceful farm houses and fishing villages all bathed in the unique Mediterranean light, it's the perfect location for a relaxing family holiday.The Amalfi Coast – leave your map behind
There's little chance of getting lost, so you can leave your map behind as you follow the state highway sandwiched between the mountains and the sea, and explore the charming, timeless towns and villages along one of Europe's most spectacular stretches of Mediterranean coastline.The wild beauty of the Costa Brava
Secluded coves with crystalline waters, unspoiled islands, medieval villages with winding cobbled streets, and of course, charming fishing villages. The Costa Brava treasure chest is overflowing with natural, cultural and historical gems.Summer in Andorra is all action
It's summer in the mountains of Andorra, and that means it's time to dive, play golf, ride a mountain bike or any of a score of other sports and nature adventures. Summer weather doesn't stop the excitement at Grandvalira, Vallnord and Naturlandia ski stations.Float away on holiday
If you enjoy your seaside holidays, why not take the idea one step further and try a floating hotel? From glass-floored bungalows set over the crystal waters of the South Seas, to chic ships at anchor on the banks of canals, rivers, and lakes, there's bound to be one that floats your boat!What to see in Le Mans: Nights of fantasy
Throughout July and August, when dusk creeps into the streets and squares of the fortified Plantagenet town of Le Mans, it brings with it a truly magical spectacle of light, colour and sound.Sailing off the coast of Croatia
With over 1,000 islands dotting the beautiful clear waters of the Adriatic off the coast of Croatia, the area offers a stunning setting for a sailing holiday. Spend the day island hopping and exploring rocky coves, then return to harbour and enjoy an evening meal in one of the many picturesque villages that even in summer offer an escape from the crowds.Your quick travel guide to Monaco
With all eyes on Monaco for 2011's second 'wedding of the year', we bring you a chance to get to know the tiny Principality with its air of glamour and exclusivity, and to discover some of the delights this haven of the rich and famous has to offer.Join the Little Prince in an adventure at Futuroscope
From July, the Futuroscope theme park invites you to join Antoine Saint-Exupery's mythical character in an adventure that promises to charm and enchant adults and children alike.Meet the orang-utans in the jungle of Borneo
Nestled deep in central Borneo lies a haven quite unlike any other place on earth; here, in Tanjung Puting National Park, in the south of the island of Borneo, visitors can see orang-utans in their natural habitat and get up close and personal with these great apes – our cousins who share around 96% of their genes with humans.Djerba, the land of the Lotus Eaters
The quiet golden beaches and ancient landscapes of the small island of Djerba are a haven of calm and beauty. According to legend, this land, where the air is full of the rich fragrance of the Mediterranean, inspired Homer when he wrote the Odyssey, and over 400 archaeological sites pay witness to the land's long history.Breathe the pure spring air in Madriu
If you fancy getting away from it all and taking the family for a few days hiking in a beautiful natural setting, why not try the verdant Madriu Valley in Andorra?The Rhine in flames - fireworks over Germany's longest river
This Saturday, the annual summer season of pyrotechnical displays over the River Rhine kicks off, offering the chance to see the River Rhine as you have almost certainly never seen it before.On safari in Africa with the kids!
Instead of taking the kids on holiday to the beach yet again, why not pull out all the stops and take them on safari? Let them see the great beasts of Africa in their natural habitat, stay in Masai-style accommodation and discover the world of the 'dark continent.'San Francisco, a city with heart
San Francisco, considered one of the most beautiful cities in the world, is a don't-miss destination on the itinerary of anyone who loves travel, architecture, gastronomy and the good life in general. Its welcoming people, the stunning landscape and temperate climate make a visit irresistible.Hollywood settings in the English countryside
With the spring weather making days out a more attractive option, why not visit one of the many mansions, country houses and castles across England? We've chosen a few that you may recognise from their appearances on TV and the silver screen.Tipaza, home of the gods
The pace of life flows slowly on this Mediterranean coast; the Roman ruins give witness to past glories while the Algerian jet set enjoy the pleasures of fine seafood, a leisurely water pipe, blue skies and sunshine.Corsica: the Med's greenest island
Corsica, the birthplace of Napoleon, is an island paradise set amid crystal clear waters, where the spectacular natural setting is enhanced by the historical and architectural legacy.Naples, the birthplace of pizza
A trip to Naples would probably be worth it just for the chance to sample the best-travelled example of Mediterranean cuisine in the place it originated. There's more to the city than pizza, though, as the fine monumental heritage blends with a vibrant twenty-first century ambience.Celebrate the start of winter at Stonehenge
Astronomical calculator? Sacred burial ground? Landing spot for UFOs? Altar for human sacrifice? Whatever the wild theories about Stonehenge, it's clear that the monument is an awe-inspiring work of vast antiquity, which comes into its own at the solstice celebrations.Vienna gets into the Christmas spirit
If you're quick, there's still time to catch a flight to the Austrian capital and get your Christmas shopping done in traditional style at one of the many Yuletide markets that flourish on the streets of this beautiful city.In the driving seat at Ferrari World, Abu Dhabi
Recession? What recession? That certainly seems to be the question over in the United Arab Emirates where the new Ferrari theme park has just opened in Abu Dhabi. It's the first of its kind that celebrates the internationally renowned Italian sports cars, and a true paradise for Formula 1 fans.Tree Hotel: unique rooms with unbeatable views
Who hasn't wondered what it would be like to live in a treehouse? If you visit the beautiful village of Harads in northern Sweden, you have the chance to find out or, at least, to discover what it's like to stay at a Tree Hotel. Here, a new concept in luxury hotel accommodation has just opened offering guests a top-of-the-trees experience in complete harmony with the environment.