UK Holiday Blog

They are two of the most naturally beautiful locations on the planet – the Nevis range in Scotland and Engelberg in Switzerland won’t just appeal to skiers and winter sports enthusiasts, they will also be attractive to anyone in search of a peaceful getaway, the chance to get closer to nature, or someone who just wants to enjoy some fabulous, breathtaking scenery.

Of course few of us can stretch our cash to more than one winter break – so how do these stunning destinations compare?

Feeling active

With its alpine location and fabulous, modern sporting facilities, Engelberg has proven to be a magnet for both summer and winter tourism. Unsurprisingly it appeals predominantly to those who love winter sports, with its skiing terrain best suited to advanced skiers, although there are facilities for beginners too. It is also a snow-sure ski resort meaning it has an unusually long season – typically lasting from October to May. Snowboarding is also well catered for with a host of parks at which you can really put your skills to the test.

Of course these aren’t the only options for anyone who is feeling active. You could test yourself with some cross-country skiing; or head into the woods and check out the scenery with some winter hiking. There are plenty of sledding options; or you could head to the SnowXPark, where you can ride electric motorbikes that have been exclusively converted to be used on the snow.

Engelberg isn’t a winter only destination, of course. There are plenty of summer activities to choose from too, such as hiking and mountain biking options; or you could head to the Via Ferrata to test your mettle with some climbing action. Alternatively, if you’re feeling really crazy, check out the notorious devil bikes.

Similarly, a stay in the Nevis range also centres on skiing and snowboarding. There are 12 lifts in the range in total, including Scotland’s only mountain gondola. The beginners’ area is right by the top station and has a variety of green and blue runs; while there are challenging red runs in the Snowgoose bowl for intermediates; and extensive off-piste black runs for those with experience.

Unsurprisingly there is reliable winter climbing with both the Ben Nevis (pictured) and Carn Mor Daerg mountains to choose from. However, the Ben Nevis range perhaps offers a much more extensive list of summer sports and activities.

Among them are the walks to mountain viewpoints where you can explore the flora, wildlife and fauna; the forest walks with the stunning Ben Nevis as the backdrop; or mountain biking with various trails ranging from cross country offerings to white-knuckle downhill rides. In addition, the Nevis range offers the High Wire Adventure Park, which is open from October to Easter. It is a series of high ropes courses built among the trees with plenty of obstacles to tackle.

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“Truly inspirational” – these are words that are far from customary when describing any city in the world, but when used in reference to Oxford and Lyon they seem entirely appropriate.

The French city of Lyon is usurped in historical importance, originally as an important area for the weaving of silk, and more recently as a centre for French gastronomy and cinema. Meanwhile, Oxford, in the county of Oxfordshire, is perhaps most famous for its educational institutes while its buildings demonstrate every English architectural period since the arrival of the Saxons. So which of these eye-catching cities should be your first choice for a short break?

Architecture for the ages

If you enjoy immersing yourself in history, then both Lyon and Oxford will bring your passion alive – as there is history at every turn.

The architecture in Lyon spans a number of periods. You can get a glimpse of life in the Middle Ages and the Renaissance period with buildings such as: the Cathedral of St John, a medieval church with architectural elements from the 13^th, 14^th and 15 centuries; the Romanesque basilica style Basilica of St Martin-d’Ainay; and the Eglise St Nizier, a Gothic church from the 15^th Century. From the 17^th and 18^th Century there are buildings including: City Hall on the Place des Terreaux; the Musee des beaux-arts de Lyon, a fine arts museum housed in a former convent; and the Temple du Change, which once served as the stock exchange.

Of course that’s not to say that there aren’t plenty of modern buildings to turn your head in Lyon too. For example, the Opera National de Lyon, built in 1831 was renovated in spectacular fashion in 1993; while the Sainte Marie de le Tourette, is a monastery that was actually constructed in 1960. There are some beautiful parks and gardens within Lyon too – among the best is Parc de la Tete d’Or, which translates as Golden Head Park, and is the largest urban park in France at 117hectares. The Jardin botanique de Lyon is also worth visiting, it is open weekdays without charge and is a municipal botanical garden.

Few cities however, can match the architectural brilliance of a stay in Oxford with the city centre proving popular among film and TV crews with the city featuring in films such as: The Scarlet Pimpernel, Harry Potter, The Saint, X-Men: First Class and Tomorrow Never Dies.

Castles have featured largely in Oxford’s history – Wallingford Castle was once a Norman stronghold; while Broughton Castle was showcased in Shakespeare in Love. Blenheim Palace is considered by many to be the UK’s greatest palace and is certainly one of the finest baroque houses in the country. Alternatively you could choose to relax amid the greenery of beautiful settings such as: Rousham House, a pilgrimage setting for anyone who wants to know more about the works of William Kent; the Ornamental Garden at Waterperry Gardens, with eight acres of landscaped ornamental gardens; and Arboretum at University of Oxford Harcourt Arboretum, with no walls, straight lines or glass houses – it appears designed to defy the conventions of a traditional botanic garden.

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They are two of the most architecturally stunning locations in the world – but which has the edge between Italy’s underrated destination of Siena, and the similarly overlooked city of Chester in Cheshire?

Even though Italy is one of the most desirable holiday destinations in the world, many travellers overlook Siena in favour of the obvious attractions of Rome, Florence and Venice. Similarly, many of those considering a city break in England would opt for London, Bath or Cambridge and miss out on what Chester has to offer. So if you’re determined to discover one hidden gem this year, which should you opt for?

Culture vultures rejoice

Considered by many to be the jewel under the Tuscan sun, Siena is a unique city soaked in historical architecture and traditions that date back to the 13^th Century.

The centre of Siena has been declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the country’s most visited attractions – in 2008 it boasted more than 163,000 visitors. Its main sights include Siena’s Cathedral, which dates back to the 12^th Century and is a fantastic example of Romanesque-Gothic architecture. Originally intended to be the largest cathedral in the world it has an axis that runs north-south and inside you can find the famous Gothic octagonal pulpit by Nicola Pisano and the Museo dell’Opera del Duomo.

The town square houses the Palazzo Pubblico and the Torre del Mangia, the latter of which is famous for hosting the Palio horse race, while the former houses its own important art museum. In addition, the city’s gardens are well worth visiting including the Orto Botanico dell’Universita di Siena; while the Medicean Fortress is home to the Siena Jazz School, which has its own major festival every year.

Chester, meanwhile, has a number of medieval buildings of its own – although some of the black and white buildings in the city centre are actually restored Victorian buildings. It is however, one of the best preserved walled cities in all of the UK – with nearly all of the Grade I-listed walls complete. A footpath runs across the walls and crosses roads over a series of bridges taking in sights and structures such as the Phoenix Tower, the Goblin Tower, the Water Tower and Morgan’s Mount.

The Chester Rows are unique in Britain with the shops and dwellings on the lowest floor often lower than the street – they are entered by steps. Meanwhile, those on the first floor are entered behind a continuous walkway that often has a sloping shelf close to the railings that overlook the street. The most prominent buildings in the area include the town hall and the cathedral.

There is plenty to see during a stay in Chester away from the city centre too. For example, Chester Castle is one of its most important surviving structures; while Grosvenor Park is great for a day out; or alternatively, you could take a trip along the River Dee.

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When many of us think of British seaside holidays, we fall into the trap of thinking of days gone by – with funfairs, ice-creams, donkey rides on the beach and anything but good weather. It’s no wonder then that many of us prefer to take cheap flights abroad to destinations such as La Manga, in Spain, with its stunning coastline and more reliable climate.

However, before you jet away on your Spanish break, consider an alternative much closer to home – such as a stay in Weymouth. For Weymouth is a destination that does not fit the traditional seaside mould – it has one of the most picturesque harbours in Europe and a lot more to offer than just Punch & Judy.

Natural attraction

The area of La Manga can be found in the Region of Murcia, Spain, with a strip that stretches for 22km and separates the Mediterranean Sea from the Minor Sea lagoon. The La Manga sandbar is cut off by natural channels that keep the seas in contact with each other; and with the space remaining relatively untouched until the 1960s it quickly became a tourist destination.

Most visitors that consider La Manga for their break are not just attracted to its shores however – they are also drawn to its golf courses. There are three championship courses in La Manga – these include: La Manga Golf Club, with its 18holes and various putting and chipping greens; Club de Golf Torre-Pacheco, a nine-hole course that is less well-known with visitors but well worth a day out; and Roda Golf Course, with a wide driving range and putting green.

La Manga is also considered an international sports station on its waters too. There are sailing and skiing schools that run periodical courses; while it also has activities available including: canoeing, windsurfing and catamarans. In addition, La Manga Stadium is close by with the La Manga Cup having been held in the area since 1999.

However, when it comes to sporting activities, few beaches in the world can match the variety on offer in Weymouth. Throughout the year it holds several major events ranging from tag rugby and handball; to motocross, international volleyball and the international beach kite festival. Furthermore, the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy has been chosen as the venue for the sailing events in the 2012 Summer Olympics. It was considered that the venue already offered world class sailing facilities and they have been built on with a new 220m slipway that can be accessed at all states no matter what the tide or wind; an extended dinghy park with room for 600 boats; and an additional 70 marina berths.

The beach itself has spectacular views and plenty of traditional favourites ranging from the aforementioned donkey rides and Punch & Judy shows; to trampolines, Pedelos and swing boats. Meanwhile, the 17^th Century harbour, which can be found adjacent to the town and beach, is an ideal place to relax after a hard day of water sports, with plenty of restaurants and bars to choose from.

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Ukraine is surely one of Europe’s most underrated holiday destinations – but that may all be about to change with Euro 2012 right around the corner. However, while many adventurous travellers and football fans will try their luck in Kiev and Crimea; most will continue to overlook perhaps the architectural jewel in Ukraine’s crown – Lviv.

The city is hallmarked by a quiet and quaint old town; some beautiful wooded hills and exquisite churches and cathedrals. However, if you’re considering trekking beyond the football hotspots for your Ukrainian holiday this summer - why not take a closer look at one of England’s most underrated cities first? After all, Norwich doesn’t have a bad football history of its own.

Historical connections

Few cities boast the historical significance of Lviv, which is something of a cultural melting pot. It has been a major centre for Jewish and Polish culture as they were the two main ethnicities in the city until the outbreak of the Second World War. Amazingly, its history has survived to the present day with the historical heart of the centre, including its old buildings and cobbled streets standing firm throughout the war and the strong Soviet presence – now the city centre has made it on to the UNESCO World Heritage list.

Lviv boasts a host of historic churches and buildings that date back as far as the 13^th Century. Many of its buildings were designed in the renaissance, baroque and classic styles with stone sculptures and carvings dating back hundreds of years. It has a bustling cultural scene too, with museums and galleries including: the Lubomirscy Museum, which displays a wide range of art and historical objects linked to Poland; the Lviv National Art Gallery; and the Lviv National Museum, which is home to both the Museum of Religion and the National Gallery.

Norwich meanwhile, is steeped in history in its own right. Norwich Castle was founded soon after the Norman conquest; while Norwich received a royal charter from King Henry II in 1158; and is the only English city to have been excommunicated by the Pope, following a riot in 1274.

At more than 900 years old, Norwich Cathedral is the city’s most obvious attraction – it has the second tallest spire and the largest monastic cloister in the entire country. Its museums include the Norwich Castle Museum and Art Gallery, which is home to outstanding collections of fine art, archaeology and natural history; the Royal Norfolk Regimental Museum, which looks at Norfolk’s soldiers and their families; Thursford Museum, which transports you back in time to a traditional fairground with engines and carousel rides; and the Bridewell, once a prison for women and beggars that now houses some unique objects.

Other attractions to enjoy during a stay in Norwich include: Dragon Hall, a magnificent Grade I listed building which boasts more than 1,000 years of history; the old skating rink gallery, with a permanent collection of South Asian decorative arts and crafts; and the Colman’s Mustard Shop and Museum, which looks back at the history of the famous mustard in the area.

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It’s fair to say that Blackpool and Benidorm share a lot more than just the same letter at the start of their name. Both holiday destinations have seemingly been tarred with the same brush – viewed by many as low class destinations that are for party revellers only.

Nevertheless, those who are willing to look beyond pure elitism will see Blackpool and Benidorm for what they really are – two of the liveliest and most fun holiday destinations on the planet, and isn’t having a good time what a holiday should really be all about? However, if you’re weighing up your options between the two resorts which should get your vote?

Let them entertain you

Blackpool and Benidorm are well-established as entertainment capitals with cabaret shows, drag acts, singers, hypnotists and kids entertainers to be found in both areas almost every night of the week.

Benidorm is often viewed as an adult destination but it has plenty of family entertainment on offer. There are clowns for the children; comedians such as Gareth Fulton, the comedy hypnotist and Jason Kane, Benidorm’s longest surviving entertainer; ventriloquists including Rikki Stevens; and dance acts such as Mini Jackson. If you prefer something for an older crowd then check out Dangerous Brian, a unique comedy act for the open minded; and Dinah Rodd, a drag act with a difference. There are also plenty of tribute acts to enjoy, whether you’re a fan of ABBA, Amy Winehouse, Adele or the Black Eyed Peas.

There is something for everyone in the bars around Benidorm too – whether you’re a fan of karaoke, discos or you just want to watch some live sports. For example, the Guinness Bar is the place to go if you’re missing a proper pint; Heartbreak has sports on its big screens; and Tiki Beach has quality live music and a non-stop happy hour on certain drinks.

Meanwhile, the entertainment scene during a stay in Blackpool is all about contrasts. Its beautiful Grand Theatre has a year-round programme of live performances ranging from opera and ballet; to comedies, musicals and children’s shows; while the Empress Ballroom attracts some of the country’s top bands and artists. Elsewhere, the Sands Venue plays host to the best tribute bands and the finest jazz acts; while St John’s, with its dancing fountain and new Wave sculpture also hosts a variety of events and entertainment throughout the year.

Blackpool will also oblige if you want to party until the early hours with plenty of nightclubs and bars to choose from. Among the best are: Flares Nightclub with its sensational 70s bar and disco; Roxy’s, which has five levels to explore with a host of drag acts; Che Bar and Coco, which attracts some of Blackpool’s most legendary DJs; Revolution Blackpool, with more than 30 different flavoured vodka infusions; and Flamingo’s, one of the oldest gay nightclubs in the country.

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Love culture? Then you’ll fall in love with Prague. The capital of the Czech Republic has established itself as one of Europe’s leading city break destinations thanks in large to its incredible architecture – the city was born during the Gothic era and flourished during the renaissance.

However, for all Prague’s unquestionable beauty… there are many hidden gems much closer to home – in Cambridge. A stay in Cambridge will not only allow you to explore both modern and traditional architecture, but it will also place you in a city that has truly shaped the world we live in with history around every corner.

Culture vultures

If you’re a culture vulture then Prague may be at the top of your list of places to visit. It boasts some of the most significant cultural institutions in the world, including the National Theatre and the Estates Theatre; as well as hundreds of concert halls, galleries and cinemas with Prague regularly hosting festivals ranging from the Prague Fringe Festival to the Prague Spring International Music Festival; and film festivals such as One World and the Febiofest.

In terms of sights, Prague has benefitted from suffering considerably less damage during the Second World War compared to major cities in surrounding regions. Some of its most popular sights include: Prague Castle, with the St Vitus Cathedral that stores the Prague Crown Jewels; the Astronomical Clock in Old Town Square; the picturesque Charles Bridge; the National Museum on the Wenceslas Square; and the Lennon Wall.

However, while Prague’s festivals and cultural scene may have an international reputation, Cambridge is surely in the same echelon.

Several fairs and festivals take place in Cambridge, the most notable of which is perhaps the Midsummer Fair, which dates back to 1211 and today acts as an annual funfair. However, there is also the annual Cambridge Beer Festival and the Cambridge Folk Festival, one of the largest folk music events in the UK. Cambridge too has a strong reputation for popular music – it is the home of Pink Floyd; literature; and film.

Most of the sights in Cambridge revolve around its world famous university, arguably the most famous educational institute in the world. Its 31 colleges dominate the centre of the city, which also boasts beautiful bridges, cobbled streets and stunning gardens. Among the highlights are the Grasshopper Clock, on the corner of Corpus Tyler library; King’s College, the largest and most spectacular in Cambridge; and Oliver Cromwell’s House, which takes you back to the 17^th Century.

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They are two of the most famous cities in the world, steeped in history with some of the most recognisable architecture that has helped establish both in international folklore. However, while many Brits savour the prospect of a trip to the Nou Camp, La Ramblas and Barri Gotic in Barcelona, they overlook the treasures that await them much closer to home in Liverpool with its picturesque Albert Dock, its bustling new shopping centre and of course some notable football and musical history of its own.

So if you’re travelling on a budget this year – can a stay in Liverpool really outpace a holiday in Barcelona?

Capitals of culture

There are few cities in the world that can compete with Barcelona for its architectural magnificence. Barri Gotic, the Gothic Quarter of the city, is renowned for its open markets and winding streets, but is also the home to Barcelona Cathedral – a real masterpiece of Gothic architecture that has stood since the 13^th Century and features a roof guarded by mystical gargoyles. Also in the heart of the city you’ll find Plaza Catalonia, which is situated between the 19^th Century L’Eixample and the medieval old part of the city with a circular plaza that hosts live musical performances and brilliant sculptures.

Yet for all the wonders of Barcelona, Liverpool can make a unique claim of its own – because its impressive waterfront has been granted UNESCO World Heritage Site status, placing it in the same bracket as the Great Wall of China and the Egyptian Pyramids. In terms of historic buildings, there is Liverpool Cathedral, described by Sir John Betjeman as “one of the greatest buildings in the world”; the Imperial Arch, which is the largest outside China; the Bluecoat Arts Centre, one of the city’s most distinctive buildings; and St George’s Hall, widely regarded as one the finest neo-classical buildings in the world.

Both cities will also allow you to delve into their history. For example, Mont Juic is a hill that overlooks the harbour in Barcelona and comes complete with its own historic castle as well as a military museum, a “Magic Fountain” and botanic gardens. Meanwhile Liverpool is awash with museums and galleries ranging from the alternative Tate Gallery on the Albert Dock; to the Museum of Liverpool, the Merseyside Maritime Museum and World Museum Liverpool which bulges with historic treasures from around the world and even boasts its own planetarium.

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Shop until you drop – or at least until your feet ache. There are so many shops in London that you’ll want to come to the capital with some serious spending money because you might just be overwhelmed.

Something for the discerning shopper

London’s department stores are the place to go if you want to do all your shopping in one trip – and they’re also world famous. Debenhams, for example, stocks affordable ranges from a number of British designers; while Fenwick of Bond Street offers designer clothing, bags, shoes, jewellery and more.

Perhaps the most famous department store of them all however, has to be Harrods which actually started life as humble grocery store but now has everything from food to fashion and from furniture to sports wear. There’s Harvey Nichols, a must for anyone who claims to know anything about fashion; John Lewis, a much loved chain of department stores; Liberty, one of London’s most traditional stores; and Selfridge’s, one of the most famous names in London retail.

If you’re travelling with cash to splash, then London is certainly the place to shop for fine luxury items. For example, Malborough Fine Art and Sadie Coles HQ are among the many brilliant art galleries in Mayfair where you can take home items that catch your eye; while for jewellery, iconic international brands such as Tiffany & Co, Bulgari and Cartier all find their home in the capital. Then of course, there are London’s famous auction houses, such as Christie’s, Bonham’s and Sotheby’s.

London’s markets are also tourist attractions in their own right. Covent Garden (pictured) is perhaps the most iconic of them all, with speciality shops, the Apple craft market, restaurants, cafes and brilliant street entertainers. Then there’s Petticoat Lane Market, where you can put your haggling skills to the test; Greenwich Market, with beautiful products from internationally renowned designers; and Old Spitalfields Market, a popular covered market selling everything from food to clothes.

Our verdict – London

Ever dreamed of shopping on Oxford Street; of having your picture taken outside Buckingham Palace; or of catching a West End show? It seems every holiday fantasy can come true in London.

The capital has so much to offer that even on the final week-long edition of destination spotlight, we barely scratched the surface of what’s available. We ran out of time to mention London’s thriving film scene; its renowned theatres; its comedy and cabaret; and, of course, its addiction to sport, which doesn’t just include Wembley Stadium and Lord’s cricket ground but now includes the 2012 Olympics.

Simply put, if you only have the time and money for one holiday in your lifetime, then chances are London is the one destination that will not disappoint.

UKHOLIDAYPLACES.CO.UK BLOG RETURNS WITH TRAVELLING ON A BUDGET – JANUARY 09, 2012.

Dining in London isn’t about grabbing something on the go – it should be a part of your holiday that you savour as much as seeing the sights. The restaurants in London are of a stunningly high standard and there are tastes for every palate whether you want something from abroad or the best of British.

Simple and hearty

When done well, British food is simple and hearty – and the top London restaurants serve only the finest British produce, including everything from roast beef and game to fish and chips.

One of the finest examples of the best of British cuisine is the Boisdale of Belgravia, which is housed in a Regency building close to Buckingham Palace. It has a primarily Scottish menu focusing on haggis, potatoes and whisky. If you prefer something more English however, then check out Porters English Restaurant, a Covent Garden favourite, with its famous steak and kidney pudding; as well as beer battered cod and creamy fish pie.

Roast offers views over the bustling Borough Market and focuses on the best British cooking with a seasonal menu that places the emphasis on traditional favourites such as roast beef, potted shrimps and English wine. Rules, in Covent Garden, is London’s oldest restaurant, with an emphasis on oysters (pictured), game, pies and pudding; while Simpsons in the Strand is a place for real meat lovers.

Anyone looking for kosher dining will be spoilt for choice with everything from Italian restaurants to Chinese restaurants to choose from. Aviv has a traditional Israeli menu with sizeable portions; while Bevis Marks is considered one of London’s premier kosher restaurants with a focus on British food including hard-cut chips and rib-eye steaks. Meanwhile, Kaifeng offers fabulous Chinese food; Met Su Yan specialises in authentic fusion dishes; and Tutti Gusti is the place for Italian cuisine.

Pubs and clubs

After all that good food you’re going to need something to wash it all down – and London, unsurprisingly, is not short of drinking options. There are plenty of traditional gastro pubs, some of the best of which include: The Gun, a Victorian pub that has been beautifully renovated; Paradise by Way of Kensal Green, with its enormous angel sculpture; The Coach and Horses, which is rumoured to have a few ghosts; and The Bull and Last with outstanding seasonal food.

For a glass of champagne, check out Amuse Bouche Solo, with its in-house DJ on Friday nights; Catch & Champagne Bar, which is popular with the after-work crowd; and Kettner’s Champagne Bar, which regularly plays host to the rich and famous.

Of course if you just want to have some fun on your night out then check out one of London’s karaoke bars, such as: Lucky Voice Soho, which has nine private karaoke rooms; Karaoke Box Smithfield and Soho; and The Source Below, one of London’s original and best-loved karaoke bars. There are also too many clubbing options to mention in the city, but some of the best include: Adventure Bar; Club de Fromage; and the electric sounds at Electric Brixton.

Tomorrow: London Shopping.