Anastasya Miranda
The Petrol Heads Top Five Holidays
Sitting on a beach drinking sangria and enjoying the sun is not everyone’s idea of the perfect holiday. Some of us want to be active; exploring new regions, undertaking various adventurous activities or learning new things.
Self confessed petrol head Mark Martin from MoneySupermarket is one of these individuals. He therefore took takes a look at the five best holidays for petrol heads:
5. Indianapolis Motor Speedway
The crown in the jewel of the Formula One World Championship that every driver wants to win is of course Monaco. However, in the United States where F1 isn’t quite so popular; ever Indycar driver wants to win the Indy 500 which is staged annually at the Indianapolis Motor speedway in Indiana. In the 1960s when F1 drivers commercial arrangements were far less binding; the draw of the race was enough to attract the likes of Jim Clark, Jackie Stewart and Graham Hill to the event.
The circuit is also famous for the ‘Yard of Bricks’ which mark the start finish line on the layout which is traditionally kissed by the winner at the end of a race as they celebrate with the world famous bottle of milk. Why not take the track and kiss a little bit of history yourself?
Indeed, the track is steeped in tradition and keen to pay homage to its past. This is no more in evidence than in the ‘Hall of Fame Museum’ which is located on the grounds of the venue. First opened in 1956, the building houses 75 vehicles; all of which played a vital part in establishing the history of the event including over 30 Indy 500 winning cars. There would simply be no better time to visit the track than during the month of May in order to see a new Indy 500 champion crowned.
4. Nurburgring
The modern Nurburgring track still plays host to F1 races, but it is the original Nordschleife ring which is the biggest crowd pleaser. Built around the medieval Nurburg castle in the Eifel mountains; the circuit is 14.2 miles in length and features a remarkable 170 turns.
Nicknamed ‘The Green Hell’ by Jackie Stewart the circuit was eventually taken off the F1 calendar in 1976 with drivers branding it “unsafe” after a fiery accident which left Niki Lauda with permanent scaring. For a track to be deemed as unsafe in that particular era of dare devil racers who had little regard for safety really signifies the severity of the problem.
Nevertheless, for this very reason and the challenge that it represents it continues to be a huge draw for car enthusiasts the world over who regularly take their road cars onto the circuit for track days. There isn’t a car enthusiast I know who would turn down the chance to spend every day of their holiday on this particular track.
3. British Motoring heritage
Britain is very much the home of motor racing, with eight of the current twelve F1 teams having their factories located in very close proximity in an area known as Motorsport valley. Occasionally all of these teams will open their doors for tours in order to give fans a glimpse of the space age technology which is utilised in an attempt to win the prestigious F1 crown. However, be warned that this doesn’t happen as often as it should!
There are also some fantastic circuits located around the UK which would appeal to any motor racing fan. First and foremost of these is of course Silverstone, which is the home of the British Grand Prix. This is located just a couple of miles down the road from the Sahara Force India factory and is worth a visit even if there is no racing on just to soak up the atmosphere at a venue which has seen so much action over the years. Plans are afoot to build museums and other such buildings at the venue; but this is an ongoing project.
One circuit which already has a Museum in place is Donington Park in Leicestershire, two hours up the road from Silverstone. The venue is just as famous for its notoriously unpredictable weather conditions as it is for the F1 race it hosted in 1993; an event which was famously won by Ayrton Senna by well over one minute. Indeed, the late Brazilian is represented very prominently in the Donington museum as a result of this victory; being honoured with a statue located outside the building alongside his hero Juan Manuel Fangio. Senna’s race winning McLaren is also on display along with many other race and championship winning F1 machinery. This is well worth going out of your way for.
2. Flavour of France
France is actually the birth place of motor racing; having held the automobile races in the late 1800’s. Despite having lost its place on the Formula One calendar in recent years, it is still home to Automotive daddy’s the FIA.
The principality of Monaco which is located in the South of France is still very much present on both the F1 and World Rally Championship calendar, and it is this area which you should choose to visit if you are on a motoring holiday in France. It would be best to start this holiday at the Col de Turini which is one of the most iconic driving roads in the world.
Having been the location of a memorable car chase scene in James Bond’s Goldeneye and still playing host to one of the stage’s on the Monte Carlo Rally; this challenging collection of corners really needs to be seen to be believed. Take a drive down this route if you happen to be in the area but remember not to get over confident. This winding road can catch out even the best of them.
After that why not go on a short trip down to Monaco and take to the actual Grand Prix circuit which acts as normal driving roads the rest of the year. Negotiate the Grand Hotel Hairpin or take a trip through the famous Monaco tunnel.
1. Italian Pilgrimage
If you are a petrol head, you no doubt immediate think about Ferrari whenever Italy is mentioned. This is perfectly natural; with the famous prancing horse being more of a religion than a car brand for many Italian’s.
The first place to head if you are going on a motoring holiday to Italy is Modena; home of the Ferrari factory. Ferrari do offer factory tours of their facilities on certain occasions, and it is recommended that you contact a local Ferrari dealer to arrange for this before setting off in order to avoid disappointment. This isn’t just where they build the company’s road cars, but also their F1 machines. If you are lucky, you might catch them on a day when they are testing on their own private facilities.
After this you have a choice. One option is to head two hours down the road towards the South of Italy to visit the Imola circuit which played host to the San Marino Grand Prix for many years. However, the track is most famous for having been the scene of the death of motor racing legend Ayrton Senna in 1994. Flowers and messages from fans are still laid on the scene of the accident; and it would surely be an honour for any motor racing fan to pay homage to a man whose name still resonates all over the world.
The second option is to head two hours from Modena up towards the North of Italy to Monza near Milan; a circuit which is still the home of the Italian Grand Prix. However, despite the modern circuit being a sight to behold; it is actually the original 1950s layout which will likely prove of most interest to motoring buffs. The banked flat out oval is steep to walk up never mind drive around and really brings home the danger that drivers in the classic era of motor racing faced every time they got behind the wheel. It is almost as if time has stood still on this section of the track and it is most defiantly an eerie place to be.
4 Top Reasons to Holiday in Egypt
Many people nowadays are choosing to go a bit further afield to visit more exotic holiday destinations. With so many offers on flights and accommodation, as well as package tours and all inclusive holidays, there is a great deal of choice when it comes to picking a holiday destination nowadays. One of the best offers to take advantage of is cheap flights to Egypt. This amazing country has a great deal of history and culture, as well as being filled with fabulous beaches and hot sunny weather. Egypt has so much to offer that it would be impossible to mention it all in one go, here we will discuss 4 of the top reasons people should visit Egypt.
Weather – The weather in Egypt is generally warm and sunny, it can get very hot during the summer seasons so it is best to avoid the height of summer if you are prone to feel discomfort in the heat. In the deserts, if you are camping or on safari then you can get quite chilly during the night, you will need to bring some warmer clothes for this type of vacation.
Adventure – There is a great deal of adventure to Egypt and you will find a lot of activities that ensure you excitement and explorations. Scuba diving off Sharm El Sheikh, safari in the desert, quad biking and Nile cruises are all examples of the great adventures you can take part in during a holiday in Egypt.
Culture – There is a very rich and detailed history in Egypt and there are many tourist attractions where you can see ancient buildings, pyramids and great monuments of historic value. The Egyptian culture is one of the oldest in the world and you will be amazed by the variety and interest that their country has to offer. There are many museums open that display a variety of ancient artefacts and allow you to see a real piece of Egypt’s history showcased in traditional settings.
With cheap flights to Egypt being so readily available nowadays, it is a great opportunity to go and experience this amazing nation. You will be sure to have the holiday of a lifetime.
A Family Fishing Holiday
Imagine yourself surrounded by the tranquility of nature, the gentleness of the warm morning sun and the stillness that makes it all so peaceful. That is only one of the many benefits of escaping the stress of modern day life on a fishing holiday.
There are plenty of choices when it comes to making your next fishing adventure a family trip. The Mangen-Treens Fishing Preservation Area is one great place to take the entire family. The three surrounding lakes are renowned for providing excellent pike fishing. Eco-friendly motor boats and slow drifting canoes are two of the best ways to explore the local waters.
While you’re out fishing, wander over to different areas to see the sights on one of the encompassing lakes as you stop along the way for a family picnic. While part of your group is out fishing, the other part can be taking in the day on a bike ride. There are numerous tracks and trails that provide a perfect way for the kids to burn off some energy.
Värmland is a great area for a family retreat. Here, private cabins can be rented for small gatherings or several cabins can be reserved for a large group function. During the evening you can take pleasure in preparing a great meal for the entire family as you enjoy a fresh bbq with your catch of the day. At night, kick back and relax as the kids roast marshmallows and you recall the exciting adventures of your fishing holiday.
A Weekend in Barcelona
Barcelona has established a reputation as one of Europe’s premier city-break destinations, and it is easy to see why. With an artistic legacy the envy of cities the world over, glamorous boutique-lined avenues and an unrivalled culinary scene, the only problem is trying to fit it all into just one weekend. Nevertheless, there are a few must-see sights for any trip to the Catalan capital, along with a plethora of hidden gems off the beaten track. Below are a few personal favourites to help you get the most from a weekend one of Spain’s most rewarding cities.
No-one has done more to shape the international image of Barcelona than the Catalan architect, Antoni Gaudi. His most famous work is undoubtedly La Sagrada Familia, a magnificent church which towers above the surrounding landscape. Miniature models of this minor basilica adorn souvenir stalls city-wide, and this is representative of its popularity with tourists. It is worth noting that La Sagrada Familia is not yet complete, in spite of the fact that construction began in 1882. For an eternal monument to the Catalan artistic movement of Modernisme, look no further.
A stroll down the city’s most exclusive street, Passeig de Gracia, will reveal two more of Gaudi’s better known masterpieces. Departing from the Plaza de Catalunya end of the street, the first Gaudi you will encounter is Casa Batlló. The facade of Casa Batlló is hard to miss, as it seems to melt amongst the other, more traditional buildings. The entrance fee is steep, but worth it to see a truly unique interior. Inspired by nature, Gaudi set out to create a structure which contained no straight lines. This gives it a visceral impact that is sure to stay with you long after you leave. Further along the same street is La Pedrera (The Quarry). This stunning building has thankfully been restored to its original glory, and contains many of the religious symbols for which Gaudi is renowned.
Another feature which allows Barcelona to stand out from many major European cities is the fact that it has some attractive beaches. These beaches are also located close to the city centre, and were only opened in 1992, when the city hosted the Olympic Games. If you wish to avoid the more crowded areas, however, it is best to head to the beaches a little further from the centre. Each of Barcelona’s seven beaches is said to have a character of its own, so it may be best to try a few to see which best suits your mood.
For a refreshing late evening drink in Barcelona, you really are spoilt for choice. If you are still in the area around the beach, there are myriad seafront bars. These can be a little touristy and pricey, but nonetheless they do offer a spectacular panorama. For something a little more authentic, the Tres Flores bar in the Gótico area of the city is a good bet. There are also many great little bars in this area, so you can explore Barcelona’s historic old town afterwards.
While you are in Barcelona, you can use an Amex platinum credit card to collect membership rewards points for purchases you make abroad. Holders of platinum credit cards can then use these rewards points to take advantage of a wide range of travel and lifestyle benefits.
Talacre – History and Relaxation
Situated in the North of Wales, Talacre is a small village in Flintshire. It does not seem to say too much but the appearances here are misleading. In the quite village you will find gems of history and various opportunities to enjoy endless holidays. It seems like it is the end of the world but for some it may be the beginning.
Located on the shore of the Irish Sea, the village of Talacre has a very ancient lighthouse. It was built in 1776 and its figure reminds us of his glory. The tourists come and see it as it still keeps some of its later magnificence. To magnify the grandeur of the place the stories of a ghostly lighthouse keeper roam the region. It does not matter if the story is true or not, the attraction is the same.
From here you have the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful Talacre beach, a place for total relaxation. The village is surrounded by sandy dunes that offer a relaxing view. Here anyone can enjoy five stars facilities or have the joys of a simple life in a caravan park. The quiet times spent by the Irish Sea will unwind you and give you all the relaxation you deserve and seek. After this experience you will say that you were at the end of the world and it was great.
Get Cheap and Best Majorca Villas Package for Tour
If you are here to find the good holyday packages for good place then you have best place where you can enjoy your holidays with your family and friends. Now this time most of the people like to choose Cyprus which is best place of south. There you can get the best places to enjoy the honeymoon and holidays and other occasion. There you will get best kinds of facilities to stay there and also you will get best facility of foods. A Cyprus villas is the one of best way for all of the people to enjoy their life with much enjoyment.
Now this time you can get good beaches and restaurant in the Cyprus and Majorca which will be nice for you. You have luxury restaurants in the Majorca villas which is best for the celebration of honeymoon and other party celebration. This time you will get luxury beds and luxury sofa under the room.
So, if you are looking to get the good and cheap package for the Majorca so that you have best kinds of hotels and beaches and bars to enjoy the parities. It will be nice for the memorable celebration so, just go ahead to get the good package for the celebration of honeymoon and other occasion.
Staying at the All Seasons – Melbourne
The All Seasons Phillip Island resort is the perfect choice for a family wanting to make the most of this unique Australian coastal region. Situated closest to Melbourne Airport, this incredible resort is perfectly catered for a luxury family holiday. Boasting 4 star status, the resort offers a range of excellently equipped villas for you to enjoy. Ranging from one, two and three bedroom facilities, each of the villas offers a Studio spa, while the onsite perks include the excellent ‘Numbers Restaurant & Bar’, a top quality Pizzeria, tennis courts, outdoor swimming pool including a mini pool for kids and the popular Kidz Zone games area.
Situated in the lush countryside, you can enjoy one of the many BBQ’s at the hotel or take advantage of the many breathtaking walking tracks just on your doorstep. With the excellent facilities in the rooms, you’ll be perfectly at home. All of the villas include state of the art digitalised equipment, such as LCD TVs, ISD telephones, DVD players and fully equipped kitchens. Boasting lush, comfortable decor and spacious design, the rooms are fully air conditioned and include a deck where you can wander out and savour the fresh country air over breakfast.
Once you’ve settled into your villa, it’s then time to investigate the local area and beyond. The resort is just 3 km from Bay Beach in Cowes and 4 km from Surf Beach, where you can head down and just soak up the sun with the family. If you’re a more active type why not rent a surfboard and catch a few waves. You’re also a stones throw from the Penguin Parade, the famous conservation park where you can watch the little penguins waddle ashore or marvel at the array of marine life, from seals and dolphins to mammoth sized sharks at the Nobbies Centre. This is a great opportunity to witness the penguins in their natural habitat and investigate the wildlife of Australia that you’ve never seen before. Located in Cowes just a short distance from the area, the resort also has a Koala Conservation Centre, where you can wander the treetop boardwalks and watch the cute koalas in their natural environment.
Once you’ve enjoyed the majestic surroundings of the area, why not satiate your need for speed, by taking in a high octane race at the Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit. The track recently hosted the V8 Supercars race and has just had a multi-million dollar redevelopment, including a go cart track, so now you can take the wheel and enjoy the rush yourself!
Of course if you prefer the calmer, less frenetic thrill of retail therapy, then the Cowes Shopping Centre is just on your doorstep, where you can invest some of your well earned cash into the top quality clothing available from the variety of fashion boutiques and shops.
Boasting an excellent climate all year round, the All Seasons Phillips Island Resort is well connected in terms of transport. If you are flying into Melbourne you can take the V Line bus which will take you to nearby Cowes, where a connection to the hotel can be arranged. Alternatively, you may wish to hire a car and make your own way.
American Express travel card and credit card holders can use Membership Rewards points to purchase an All Seasons Gift Card worth up to $1000. Gift cards purchased with American Express credit cards are valid for 12 months.
Enjoying Resort Holidays in Italy
Could not concentrate on your jobs? Feel that your activities are really boring? Then, you have to take a long holiday in Italy. You need to refresh your mind. But, why should we choose Italy? There are some reasons why you have to spend your holiday in Italy. First, you are able to enjoy magnificent scenes. Italy offers beautiful views for you. Next, the price of resort holidays in Italy is really affordable. In addition, it is really easy to find the resorts for your holiday. So, all you need is reading this article. You would know the needed information about the top locations in Italy.
Do not you want to explore the most romantic cities in Italy? They are Venice, Florence and Rome. It is for sure that you would be able to enjoy the perfect balance of city atmosphere and rural tranquility. Moreover, it is really easy to get the resort holidays in Italy. Next, if you want to enjoy the classic atmosphere of Italy, then you have to visit Tuscany. You are able to visit the charming squares, terraced vineyards and visit majestic churches.
Not forget, it is highly suggested for you to visit Apulia and Basilicata. You are able to enjoy the authentic cuisine and experience the traditional way of life. Moreover, it is also suggested for you to visit The Island of Elba. This third largest island is a home of dramatic and breathtaking scenery. Also, you are able to enjoy the fresh and authentic Mediterranean seafood in Elba.
Creating Memories – Kenya Safari Holidays
What? You have never taken a day off this year? Do not you think that you need to take a rest? It must be enjoyable if you had your ‘me time’. No need to rush or work. You could do whatever you want. So, what are you waiting for? Open your map and choose the best place to spend your holiday. If you want to create memorable memories during your holiday, you should visit Kenya. It is guaranteed that Kenya safari holidays would make your dream comes true.
Kenya is the best safari destination in the world. This country is well-known because of its scenic beauty, abundant wildlife, warm climates and amazing cultures. You are suggested to visit Masai Mara, the best game reserve in Kenya. You are able to view some wild animals such as lions, elephants, rhinos and buffaloes in their habitat. In addition, you would be able to enjoy the other popular destinations such as Amboseli national park and Lake Nakuru. Certainly, you would be able to have different experiences by visiting those places.
All you need to do is calling the travel agent. They would give the best options of Kenya safari holidays for you. Just tell your budget so that the travel agent would get the best price for you. In addition, you also have to prepare everything. Do not forget to choose the simple but comfortable clothes. It is really important for you to use the right clothes during your Kenya safari holidays.
Comfortable Hotels North Wales
One of the requirements for people to spend their holiday in some places is the existence of hotel. It is because hotels would be the place to rest and to sleep after doing several travelling activities during the day. Hotels north wales offer many comfortable places to visit such as mountain, river, and also old and artistic building.
One of the best hotels in North Wales is Cilgwri. It is located in Welsh countryside which has many comfortable places to visit. The hotel offers nice and lovely decoration in every room that that have. Guests can choose the room which is suitable for them.
Why should I go there? Hotels north wales will not only provide you with the room but it will also give you suggestion for some places which are beautiful to visit. Food and beverages in the hotel are cooked by professional chefs who have experiences in giving the guest the best taste. When is the best time to visit there? It is suggested for you who want to come to the hotel in holiday or weekend. It is because you will have leisure time to travel around the place. You may bring your family because it is safe. So, it is time to plan for the next holiday or weekend to come to North Wales to get the best experience there.