AOL UK Travel

Great last-minute getaways for February half term Off The Map Travel

Escape dreary February and go on a family getaway to remember this half term. Here are 12 ideas for last-minute sunshine and snow...

Great getaways for February half term

Visit somewhere new on a family holiday in Gozo
 If you've travelled France and Spain and are looking for an alternative European destination for February half-term, the island of Gozo in Malta offers mild weather, beautiful beaches and plenty of activities for families in search of unique adventures. Stay at a luxury farmhouse with an indoor-to-outdoor private pool, take in the local food and culture and take the kids out and about with climbing, kayaking and riding opportunities. <a href="http://www.offthemaptravel.co.uk/" target="_blank">Off The Map Travel</a> offers family holidays for four in Gozo from £749 per person.
Do more than just skiing at an exclusive Austrian resort
 Looking for more than just skiing this February? Bad Hofgastein in Austria is an exclusive resort, where you can enjoy snowshoeing, winter hiking, ice skating, horse-drawn sleigh rides and tobogganing. The resort is part of Ski Amade, a network of 28 ski areas and towns, and it offers reliable snow conditions until late April. Stay at <a href="http://www.grandparkhotel.at/pauschalen-detailseiten-en-d42-school-holidays-special.html" target="_blank">The Grand Park Hotel</a>, which is offering seven nights for a family of three or four on a full-board basis for €2,212, with children under 10 sharing their parents’ room. Offer valid from 2 to 23 February.
Indulge in a luxury spa getaway in Mauritius
 For a no-expense-spared holiday on an idyllic island, family-friendly Mauritius offers paradise beaches, brilliant adventures and five-star service. This half term, the Sanctuary Spa at The Residence Mauritius is unveiling a new range of treatments for all the family, including luxury body massages for children, Carita Haute Beauté facials for teens, hair braiding and personal training sessions. For parents, there are aromatic and couples massages, plus a Carita Hair Spa. <a href="http://www.turquoiseholidays.co.uk/" target="_blank">Save £750 per family</a> on a seven-night holiday for four on 15 February, costing £6,249.
Tiger trails and the Taj Mahal in India
 Take the kids to India to experience the hustle and bustle of Old Delhi, see the Taj Mahal at dawn, visit the pink city of Jaipur and search for tigers, leopards, crocodiles and deer on game drives in Ranthambore National Park. <a href="http://www.adventurecompany.co.uk/tours/tiger-trails-taj-mahal" target="_blank">The Adventure Company</a>'s 11-day Tiger Trails & Taj Mahal family holiday includes hotel/park lodge accommodation, flights, breakfasts and five other meals, transport, a tour leader and park entry fees from £1,396 for children and £1,469 for adults. For children aged seven and up.
Say 'thank you' to Santa in Finnish Lapland
 Christmas isn't the only time to visit Lapland - February is perfect for an Arctic family adventure. This half term, <a href="http://www.mightyfinecompany.com/" target="_blank">The Mighty Fine Company</a> is inviting families to the newly-opened Ranua Holiday Village in the Ranua Wildlife Park to experience the culture and striking scenery of the region. Activities include riding with huskies, zipping over the countryside on a snowmobile and watching the Northern Lights. You'll also visit Rovaniemi, where Santa Claus lives year-round, so the children can say 'thank you' for their Christmas presents. Four nights from £1,098 per adult and £758 per child, including flights.
Go on a unique adventure in the Rocky Mountains
 Whether your children like scavenger hunts, hiking, mountain biking or ice skating, the Colorado Rockies have plenty to offer this February half term. At the Dunton Hot Springs resort, you can enjoy a family stay in a beautiful log cabin, nightly turn-downs with homemade cookies and milk, full-day hikes or snowshoeing, family scavenger hunts and spa treatments while in the stunning Rocky Mountains. From £5,473 for a <a href="http://www.duntonhotsprings.com/packages/family-adventure.html" target="_blank">Family Adventure Package </a>
See the Algarve on a riding holiday
 With its reasonable prices, great beaches and reliable weather, the Algarve has always been a favourite half term destination, but have you ever thought of shunning the beaches for a horse riding holiday? <a href="http://www.equestrian-escapes.com/riding-holidays-Algarve/" target="_blank">Equestrian Escapes</a>' Algarve riding escapes include lessons and trail rides, day treks with beautiful views, stops in pretty villages and plenty of wildlife viewing opportunities. Holidays including full-board accommodation and all riding cost £295 per person for three nights.
Stay at an affordable ice hotel in Romania
 A stay at a beautiful ice hotel will really impress the kids, but if the icy boltholes of Sweden and Quebec are out of your budget, Romania has a brilliant alternative with plenty of activities in the Transylvanian Alps too. <a href="http://www.explore.co.uk/holidays/details/romania-ice-hotel-family-holiday" target="_blank">Explore</a>'s five-day Ice Hotel Adventure for families with children aged eight and above, includes a night's stay at an ice hotel. There is also a visit to the medieval town of Sibiu and the capital Bucharest. Departing on 20 February, the tour costs from £693 per adult and £668 per child, including flights, three nights’ hotel and one night’s ice hotel accommodation.
Go on an African safari... in Spain!
 Want to treat the kids to an African safari without the price tag? Take them to Alicante, where <a href="http://www.canopyandstars.co.uk/spain/valencia/alicante/casa-del-mundo" target="_blank">Casa del Mundo</a>'s two safari tents, Kenia and Zambia, boast African-themed decor to make them feel like they're staying in a real safari lodge. There are chunky wood walls, animal skin rugs and cushions, and although you won't find lions and elephants lurking outside your tent, there are great days on the beach and magnificent national parks to explore outside. £441 for seven nights over half-term week (sleeps 5).
Learn to surf in Morocco
 For affordable winter sun, southern Morocco offers year-round sunshine, heat and superb beaches for surfing. Trendy and laidback resort Paradis Plage in Taghazout has its own surf school, yoga classes and locally-sourced cuisine. It is located on the beach with stunning sea views that you can enjoy from the sand, bar or terrace. There is also an outdoor cinema to keep the teens happy! Save 30 per cent with <a href="http://www.lawrenceofmorocco.com/accommodation/paradis-plage" target="_blank">Lawrence of Morocco</a> this half term and pay £595 per person for a family of four sharing a Junior Suite, including flights. Offer valid until 28 February.
Enjoy great days out in France
 You don't have to break the bank for a holiday abroad this half term. France is just a stone's throw away and still counts as being overseas even if you don't catch a plane. There are ample walking opportunities along the historic beaches of Normandy, brilliant nature hikes and it's a great place for bike rides. There is also a host of mazes, animal parks and 340 miles of greenways. <a href="http://www.poferries.com/" target="_blank">P&O Ferries</a> is offering trips from Dover to Calais with a car and up to nine passengers from £37 each way, and you can choose to travel for one day or up to five.
Treat the family to fun and affordable skiing in the French Alps
 Ski holidays can be expensive - especially when you're taking the whole family, but this February <a href="http://www.belambra.co.uk/" target="_blank">Belambra</a> is offering 25 per cent off a seven-night break at its Les Bergers resort in the Northern French Alps, so a family of five can enjoy a fun-filled week of skiing for just £163 per person. The resort is 100m from the ski lifts and schools, plus there are two beginner's areas and over 40 green slopes. And adventurous skiers can brave La Sarenne - the longest back run in the world at 16km. Guests at Les Bergers will receive 15 per cent off ski passes when they book their stay online.

Filed under: World travel

Latest research from Tripadvisor suggests that almost a quarter of us are planning to take a spa trip this year. And for anyone planning a pampering break, they've helpfully come up with the top ten hotel spas in Europe... Is your favourite here?

Top ten spa hotels in Europe

2: Seafield Golf and Spa Hotel, Ireland
 With 160 acres of wooded parklands and an 18-hole championship golf course, the Oceo Spa at Seafield just an hour outside Dublin houses has much to put it in the top three hotel spas in Europe, say Tripadvisor reviewers. There are 14 treatment rooms including a couples' suite, a rasul chamber, monsoon showers and an ice grotto. Visit <a href="http://www.seafieldhotel.com/" target="_blank">seafieldhotel.com</a>
3. Grand Hotel Kronenhof, Switzerland
 The heritage-protected Kronenhof sits in the centre of Pontresina, 1,800m above sea level and just six miles from St. Moritz. The spa boasts panoramic views of the valley, pine forests and Roseg and Bernina glaciers. Facilities include a pool with counter-current system and underwater music, a paddling pool, steam room, relaxation floating grotto and relaxation area with roaring fire. One TripAdvisor traveller comments: “A first-class spa and wellness facility in a historic, quaint town... a dream.” Visit <a href="http://www.kronenhof.com/" target="_blank">kronenhof.com</a>
4. Rockliffe Hall, County Durham, UK
 This golf and spa resort in Hurworth-on-Tees is set on a beautiful restored 18th century estate and boasts 50,000 square feet of pampering facilities including a 20-metre pool where spa butlers serve champagne and freshly squeezed juices to order. Visit <a href="http://www.rockliffehall.com/" target="_blank">rockliffehall.com</a>
5. Hotel Botanico, Tenerife
 Sitting on the Orotava Valley coastline, Hotel Botanico and its oriental spa garden is at the foot of Tenerife's Mount Teide. Treatments are inspired by Asian hospitality and facilities include a Japanese sauna and oriental laconium. Visit <a href="http://www.hotelbotanico.com" target="_blank">hotelbotanico.com</a>
6. Natur and Wellnesshotel Hoeflehner, Austria
 With panoramic views of the Dachstein Mountains, this is a perfect place for ski-and spa lovers.  Facilities include an outdoor pool and a 70 year old Stadl sauna made from oak wood as well as a Turkish bath and infrared sauna. Visit <a href="http://www.hoeflehner.com/en/" target="_blank">hoeflehner.com</a>
7. Four Seasons Lisboa
 In the heart of the city, the Four Seasons Lisbon provides a bird's eye view of all the beautiful historic sites. In the spa, windows overlook a garden and park and guests can also have spa treatments in their own glorious rooms. One Tripadvisor traveller also singles out the "magnificent" gym. Visit <a href="http://www.fourseasons.com/lisbon/" target="_blank">fourseasons.com/lisbon/</a>
8. Amathus Elite Suites, Rhodes, Greece
 The<a href="http://www.amathus-hotels.com/rhodes/accommodation/elite-suites"> </a><a href="http://www.amathus-hotels.com/rhodes" target="_blank">Elite Suites at the Amathus Beach Hotel </a>in Rhodes are a treat all on their own, with private infinity pools, mood lighting and glorious views. The 1,400 square foot spa offers a beautiful spa as well as a hammam, steam bath and jacuzzi. This is a great place to rest your weary head after you've explored the glories of the island - and with the old town just 4km away, it's perfectly located. See <a href="http://travel.aol.co.uk/2012/05/16/rhodes-hotel-review-elite-suites-at-amathus-hotel/" target="_blank">AOL Travel's review of the Elite Suites.</a>
9. Muckross Park Hotel, Kerry, Ireland
 One of the oldest hotels in Killarney, this hotel opened its doors as the Herbert Arms in 1795 and was part of the original Muckross House Estate. The spa has a monastic theme, and treatment facilities include and outdoor hot tub, a salt grotto, iced fountain and herbal sauna. "Our room was outstanding, and the spa is something else," says one reviewer. Visit <a href="http://www.muckrosspark.com/" target="_blank">muckrosspark.com</a>
10. Headlam Hall Hotel Spa, County Durham
 This family-owned 17th century country mansion stands in gardens surrounded by its own farmland and golf course. The spa includes a 14m deck level pool and outdoor spa, a drench shower, sauna ans steam room with mood lighting for the ultimate relaxation. Visit <a href="http://www.headlamhall.co.uk/" target="_blank">headlamhall.co.uk</a>
1. Corinthia Hotel, London
 Moments from Trafalgar Square and Covent Garden, this grand building dates back to 1885. Last year, it was voted the best UK hotel spa by Conde Nast Traveller. With its exclusive beauty and dining areas, discreet private suites and relaxation pods and a dramatic amphitheatre sauna hammam and ice fountain, this place has pampering well covered. Visit <a href="http://www.corinthia.com" target="_blank">corinthia.com</a>

Filed under: Travel News

Lewis Hamilton buys private jet to keep his long-distance love alive PA

Formula 1 champion Lewis Hamilton has splashed out £20million on a private jet to make it easier to spend time with his girlfriend, Nicole Scherzinger.

The Daily Mail reports that the couple spend a great deal of time apart as Hamilton lives in Monaco, while Nicole is based in Los Angeles. Both of them travel all over the world for work.

The couple briefly split in 2011, reportedly as a result of spending so much time apart. So to make sure that doesn't happen again, Lewis has treated himself to a red Bombardier CL-600, which cruises at 500mph and should make those transatlantic flights a little easier to schedule.

The Daily Mail reports that the plane is equipped with every possible luxury to make sure that passengers can travel in comfort and style. There's a pull-out bed, several plasma TV screens and a bar. It even has a personalised 'number plate' as Hamilton has changed the official registration to G-LCDH, which stands for Lewis Carl Davidson Hamilton.

Lewis took delivery of the jet at Isle of Man Airport last month - saving himself a hefty VAT bill as the island's authorities charge less tax than on the mainland. He then took his first flight to Stuttgart in Germany, to visit his new Formula 1 team.

When not in use, the jet can be chartered for a whopping £10,000 an hour.

However, last year Nicole spent a reported £750,000 on flights to see her boyfriend - so we imagine that they'll be using it fairly frequently.

Related articles:

Nicole Scherzinger to spend £750,000 on flights to see Lewis Hamilton

Tesco spends £28million flying bosses on private jets

Click on the image below to discover which celebrities have private islands...

Celebrities with private islands

Johnny Depp, Little Halls, Pond Cay, Bahamas
 While filming Pirates of the Caribbean, A-list actor Johnny Depp fell in love with the lost-at-sea lifestyle, and snapped up his own piece of paradise in the Exumas area of the Bahamas. Little Halls Pond Cay - also comically dubbed 'F*** Off Island' by Johnny himself - runs exclusively on eco-friendly solar power, and Johnny snapped it up for £2.2 million back in 2004.
Leonardo DiCaprio, Blackadore Cay, Belize
 Environmental crusader Leonardo DiCaprio added the 104-acre Blackadore Cay to his property portfolio in 2005. The Titanic actor bought the island - located between mainland Belize and Ambergris Caye - for around £1 million, and plans to to turn it into a resort offering eco tours. Let's hope he doesn't charter his own yacht trips - Leo and boats don't have a great history…
Faith Hill and Tim McGraw
 Any time country-singing star Faith Hill and her actor husband Tim McGraw fancy escaping the ranch, they just jet off to their own slice of paradise in the Exumas area of the Bahamas, where they own a fully developed private island complete with crystalline sandy beaches and trails.
Celine Dion, Ile Gagnon, Quebec
 Singing sensation Celine Dion warbled herself all the way to owning a luxury French chateau-style retreat on her very own island in Quebec. Il Gagnon is located on the Mille Iles River, where tourists can get a little peak of the property on a local boat tour.
David Copperfield, Musha Cay, Bahamas
 Magician - and former flame of Claudia Schiffer - David Copperfield owns a 150-acre island not too far from neighbours Johnny Depp and Nicholas Cage. Famous guests at the exclusive getaway include John Travolta and Oprah Winfrey. Got £200,000 to spare? You too could stay at this haven for a week… No? Us neither. Perhaps we could ask David to make it magically appear in our bank account. After all, he does claim to have an insect-resurrecting stream on his island, so surely making money appear from nowhere is child's play...
Mel Gibson, Mago Island, Fiji
 At 5,400 acres, Mel Gibson's Fijian heaven is one of the largest privately-owned islands in the South Pacific. Mel purchased it for £5.7m back in 2005. Aside from a relatively modest private residence, the island remains untouched - and Mel plans on keeping it that way.
Nicholas Cage, Leaf Cay, Bahamas
 Long-time Bahamian resident Nicholas Cage already owns a house on the luxurious Paradise Island, but snapped up an undeveloped island in the Exumas chain, close to Johnny Depp's oasis, back in 2006. The savvy actor reportedly bought the hideaway for £2m, and has now put it up for sale for a princely sum of £4.5 million.
Eddie Murphy, Rooster Cay, Bahamas
 Rooster Cay seems the perfect name for funnyman Eddie Murphy's Bahamian island bolthole. The isle is situated just 5 minutes away from the mainland town of Nassau, and sits on its own 15 acres of land. It hasn't been confirmed whether Eddie is keeping it solely for personal use, or whether he'll turn it into a resort, but if he chooses the latter, we're sure he'll be laughing all the way to the bank...
Ricky Martin, Angra dos Reis, Brazil
 Livin' la Vida Loca singer Ricky Martin is certainly livin' the high life after bagging a private island in the ultra-exclusive resort area of Angra dos Reis, where South America's gorgeous and glamorous flock in their droves.
Michael Schumacher, 'Atlantic' in the World, Dubai
 Formula 1 star Michael Schumacher parked up on a private island in Dubai's World Project - for free. Yes, you read that right. Development company Nakeel created the World Project with 300 man-made isles brought up from the sea floor, which were then made to resemble continents and countries. While Richard Branson bought 'Great Britain' (of course), Dubai's crown prince very kindly gave Michael 'Antarcica' as a retirement present. And the island, worth around £4.5 million, came complete with a home fit for a king, a beach, and landscaped gardens.
Sir Richard Branson, Necker and Mosquito Islands (BVI), Makepeace Island (Australia), World Project's Great Britain (Dubai)
 Serial private island-purchaser Sir Richard Branson surely kickstarted the trend single-handedly. The billionaire Virgin boss's most famous spot is his Necker Island in the British Virgin Islands, which he uses with his family, as well as hosting reams of famous guests, from Kate Winslet to Steven Spielberg. Along with his other haven in the BVI, Mosquito Islands, he also owns Makepeace Island in Australia, which he reportedly plans to turn into a resort for Virgin staff, and the World Project's Great Britain in Dubai.

Filed under: Travel News

Video: The London Dungeon's frightful car boot sale PA

After scaring tourists in London's Tooley Street for the past 38 years, the London Dungeon is on the move - and thrill-seekers are flocking to buy all the people-scaring props that are being discarded.

General manager Ben Sweet said hundreds of people have come to the Dungeon to snap up the bargains: "The response has been overwhelming," he said.

"The London Dungeon is close to people's hearts. We've been at Tooley Street for 38 years; hundreds and hundreds of thousand of visitors have come to the dungeon, and everybody wants to own a piece of it."

Video: The London Dungeon's frightful car boot sale PA

Amongst the memorabilia were the famous stocks where many a visitor had their photographs taken, as well as freaky dolls, heads on sticks, torturers, and torture tools.

And the most sought-after goodies? "Skeletons have been a popular request," says Ben. "Torture equipment from lots of people... One of my favourites was a little boy, about six years old, who carried off a giant scythe, which was pretty hilarious. But people are just enjoying the occasion."

According to the BBC, new equipment is being installed at the London Dungeon's new site in County Hall, a move that has cost £20 million.

The new London Dungeon opens to the public on 1 March.

Related articles

Man who makes a living scaring tourists at London Dungeons has 'Halloween phobia'

See more weird and wonderful British tourist attractions here:

Wonderfully weird Britain: Ten must-see attractions

The Crooked House, Dudley
 This pub and restaurant is not like your usual local. As its name suggests, the building leans making it look tipsy. It was built in 1765 but was affected by subsidence due to local mining in the 1800s, leading to one side of the building being four feet lower than the other! The Crooked House attracts intrigued drinkers from all over to see its leaning walls and glasses slide across the tables. Although the walls are crooked, the floors are straight, creating interesting optical illusions and the owners have annual inspections carried out - just in case it moves! Visit <a href="http://www.thecrooked-house.co.uk/">thecrooked-house.co.uk</a>
A la Ronde, Devon
 This magical, 18th century building is like no other. It was built for two spinster cousins in an unusual form with diamond-shaped windows and gets even stranger as you go inside. The house holds many of the mementos the sisters brought back from their travels in Europe. The most interesting is the shell gallery, which is encrusted with nearly 25,000 shells they collected. You'll be amazed by the interior design skills of the sisters, with feathers, shells and dainty decorations used throughout. Visit <a href="http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/w-alaronde">nationaltrust.org.uk </a>
Brimham Rocks, North Yorkshire
 Whether you're a climber or just into strange rock formations, a visit to see the balancing wonders of Brimham Moor will leave you stunned. The weird rocks were formed by water, wind and glaciation eroding them over time and achieving magnificent shapes. You'll need some imagination with Brimham Rocks and to stand in the right position to see some of the shapes named after a monster, a turtle, a ship and even a dancing bear. Visit <a href="http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/w-brimhamrocks">nationaltrust.org.uk</a>
The Gnome Reserve, Devon
 Set in four acres of woodland, meadows and gardens with wild flowers and herbs, more than 1,000 gnomes and pixies reside in North Devon's Gnome Reserve. From fishing gnomes to climbing gnomes and even gnomes sunbathing, you'll be wowed by the number of pottery pixies at the reserve. On arrival, you'll be given a hat and fishing rod, so you can fit in. The kids will love the Gnome Reserve as much as gnome enthusiasts and those looking for a unique day out. Visit <a href="http://www.gnomereserve.co.uk/">gnomereserve.co.uk </a>
Teapot Island, Kent
 Ever wondered where you can find 6,400 teapots all in one place? Teapot Island in Maidstone invites you to see its collection of quirky and cool teapots. You can watch a pottery demonstration and even get the kids involved in painting their own teapots to take home. The novelty teapots include one of a cowboy in a bath (pictured), one of Princess Diana and even one of a Dalek! Visit <a href="http://www.teapotisland.com/">teapotisland.com</a>
Dennis Severs' House, London
 Make a visit to 18 Folgate Street in Spitalfields, London where you can see the former house of Dennis Severs, an artist who tried to bring the past alive by recreating this museum as a time capsule in the style of an 18th-century home. The rooms are lit by candlelight and fire, and are kept as though someone has just left the room - food is half eaten (with smells included!), chairs are turned over and the beds are slept in and unmade. Visit <a href="http://www.dennissevershouse.co.uk/">dennissevershouse.co.uk</a>
Maeshowe, Scotland
 This grassy mound that rises from the plains in Orkney, Scotland, is in fact a Neolithic tomb that was built 5,000 years ago and a great example of craftsmanship from the Stone Age. The grass mound hides a complex of passages and chambers made from flagstone. The best time to see Maeshowe is at the winter solstice, which occurs on the shortest day of the year (usually the 21 or 22 December), when  sunlight streams into the dark passageway and lights up the chamber, which was perfectly aligned by its ancient inhabitants to catch the rays at this dark time of year.
Quay House (the smallest house in Britain), North Wales
 This tiny house in Conwy, North Wales measures just 10 feet by six and was lived in from the 16th century to 1900. The last owner, a fisherman who was six foot three inches tall, left when he became too big to stand up in it and the council declared in unfit to be lived in. Inside, there's room for just one bed, a bedside cabinet, a stove and a water tap! It's in a great location, right next to the towering walls of Conwy Castle.
The Beatles' childhood homes, Liverpool
 Fancy a tour of the childhood homes of Sir Paul McCartney and John Lennon? You can get a real insight into where the band members lived and their humble beginnings with a visit to their early homes. John Lennon lived at Mendips with his aunt and uncle and this is where his early songs were written. Check out the kitchen from the house, pictured. Paul McCartney's family home at 20 Forthlin Road was where the band met and rehearsed, and you can see some early Beatles memorabilia here. The National Trust looks after the homes now and even has a special Beatles tour bus that will take you to and from the houses. A visit here is a must if you're a fan. Visit <a href="http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/w-the_beatles.htm">nationaltrust.org.uk</a>
Klevedon Hatch Secret Nuclear Bunker, Essex
 Kelvedon Hatch Secret Nuclear Bunker claims to be the biggest and deepest cold war bunker open to the public in southeast England. It was designed for up to 600 military and civilian personnel - possibly even the Prime Minister -their collective task being to organise the survival of the population in the aftermath of a nuclear war. Luckily it's no longer needed - so it has become a tourist attraction instead. Visit <a href="http://www.secretnuclearbunker.com/index.html" target="_blank">secretnuclearbunker.com</a> for more. <a href="http://travel.aol.co.uk/2011/02/28/ten-of-the-worlds-weirdest-hotels/" target="_blank">NOW CHECK OUT THIS! WEIRDEST HOTELS AROUND THE WORLD</a>

Filed under: Family holidays

Travelling with children doesn't have to mean constantly conjuring up new ideas to keep them excited. Let the hotel do it for you!

Check in to a hotel made for kids to ensure your children are entertained and well-catered for during your stay.

From a London abode with its own kids' concierge to a castle in Devon offering a LEGO Room Service Menu and Thorpe Park's brilliant new rooms with roller coasters views, discover Britain's most child-friendly hotels...

Britain's best hotels for kids

LEGOLAND Windsor Resort Hotel, Berkshire
 The fun and imaginative <a href="http://www.legoland.co.uk/hotel/" target="_blank">LEGOLAND Windsor Resort Hotel</a> is the ultimate hotel for budding model builders, with 150 Pirate, Kingdom and Adventure-themed bedrooms and brilliant rides for all ages in the theme park. After an exciting day in the park you can enjoy LEGO chaos in the hotel's Bricks Family Restaurant, with colourful characters and great family food. Around the hotel you'll find quirky-themed lifts, exploding toy boxes, secret whoopee cushions and a pirate-themed indoor water play area. Short breaks with park tickets from £68 per person.
The Grove, Hertfordshire
 Treat your children to a luxury stay at <a href="http://www.thegrove.co.uk/" target="_blank">The Grove</a> in Hertfordshire, with its OFSTED-approved kids club, large outdoor pool in the Walled Garden and 300 acres of room to roam. Fun activities on offer include nature trails, cycling around the estate and playing Giant Chess and Jenga. Travel cots are supplied at no extra charge and there is organic baby food available. The kids will also love their mini Grove bathrobes and milk and cookies before bed. Family rooms from £365.
Bedruthan Steps, Cornwall
 Set above Mawgan Porth Beach in Cornwall, <a href="http://www.bedruthan.com/" target="_blank">Bedruthan Steps</a> is the ideal spot for families wanting to spend time on the sand. The hotel has OFSTED-approved kids clubs for all ages, a teenagers' room, high tea for little ones and all organic baby food for babies. Guests are provided with nappy bins, microwaves to warm bottles and travel cots, plus there are various family break packages throughout the year. For example, Next Steps is for parents with toddlers and offers music and movement sessions, toddler swimming classes and expert childcare. Family rooms from £350.
The Crash Pad, Surrey
 In spring 2013, Thorpe Park launches its first hotel <a href="http://www.thorpepark.com/crashpad/" target="_blank">The Crash Pad</a>, so your kids can spend the day riding some of the world's most thrilling roller coasters, before crashing out with friends or family at the hotel and have the rides in their back garden. There are 58 design-led rooms at the hotel and adrenalin-loving families can look forward to evening entertainment, including gigs and comedy, plus a bar and the Outside Chill Zone. From £64 per person.
51 Buckingham Gate, Taj Suites and Residences, London
 Five star hotel <a href="http://www.51-buckinghamgate.com/" target="_blank">51 Buckingham Gate, Taj Suites and Residences</a> really knows how to make your little ones feel like mini VIPs and has an exclusive partnership with iconic toy shop Hamleys. The Hamleys Package offers children a Hamleys hamper filled with treats and sweets upon check-in and the hotel can arrange exclusive out-of-hours entry and themed parties at the Regent Street store. The package also includes a baking lesson with a hotel chef, a babysitter for four hours and a personal shopping experience at Hamleys. From £495 for a family of four.
Swinton Park, Yorkshire
 Looking for something new and exciting to impress the kids? <a href="http://www.swintonpark.com/" target="_blank">Swinton Park</a>, nestled in 20,000 acres in the Yorkshire Dales, offers a family falconry experience allowing children to meet the birds, learn to handle and fly them with expert falconer Sophie Abbott, who has been working with the birds of prey since the age of 12. Each session provides plenty of hands-on time with hawks and owls too. Cooking, foraging on the estate and horse riding are other activities at Swinton Park. Falconry from £110 per family. Rooms from £255 including dinner.
Bovey Castle, Devon
 A place for the family to live out their dreams, <a href="http://www.boveycastle.com/" target="_blank">Bovey Castle</a> in the Dartmoor National Park offers younger guests the same fluffy dressing gowns and mini slippers as parents, as well as warm milk and snacks delivered to their door. It is the only hotel in the world to offer a LEGO Room Service Menu, where every child is given a LEGO order form on arrival to choose toys from a wide selection of box sets and have them delivered by Bovey Castle’s toy concierge wearing special LEGO concierge badges. The Bovey Rangers programme introduces mini guests to the breathtaking surroundings and teaches them new skills, such as apple pressing, survival in the wild and raft building. Rooms from £229.
Alton Towers Hotel, Staffordshire
 The unique <a href="http://www.altontowers.com/hotels/alton-towers-hotel/" target="_blank">Alton Towers Hotel</a> is themed around the incredible explorer Sir Algenon, who has made the hotel his home. Children will love the fun and quirky features, including his amazing flying ship which has crash landed in the middle of the hotel and the explorer-themed bedrooms. There are also 12 magnificently themed suites, such as the girly sleepover suite, the Sonic the Hedgehog room and the Chocolate room. From £24.75 per person.
St Moritz Hotel, Cornwall
 The stylish <a href="http://www.stmoritzhotel.co.uk/the-hotel" target="_blank">St Moritz Hotel</a> in North Cornwall is such a hotspot for families, that it has even created a <a href="http://www.minimoritz.co.uk/" target="_blank">website for its Mini Moritzers</a>. For Mini Moritzers it's all about enjoying the great outdoors with Greenaway Beach and Daymer Bay right on the doorstep. Kids aged six and up can learn to surf the Cornish waves with professional instructors and there are Mini Moritz Surf Safaris to keep little hands busy exploring rock pools, making sand creations and playing beach games. After a hard day's play, the children can hit the kiddies' bar for a selection of mocktails and there are indoor swimming pools, a chill-out room and big hammocks for relaxing. Double rooms from £105.
Drayton Manor Hotel, Staffordshire
 Your little ones will love the Thomas & Friends-themed bedrooms at the <a href="http://draytonmanorhotel.com/" target="_blank">Drayton Manor Hotel</a> in Tamworth. The magical family rooms feature unique Thomas & Friends bunk beds that come with their own DVD player. Little guests are invited to spend time in the Thomas & Friends Theatre for story time and there are character breakfasts. The hotel is located 20 metres from Drayton Manor Theme Park so they can enjoy a whole day in Thomas Land too! Family rooms from £126.40.
The Priory Inn, Cotswolds
 If you're not necessarily looking for a hotel that will keep the kids entertained 24/7 but just one that genuinely loves and caters for children, <a href="http://theprioryinn.co.uk/home/homepage.aspx" target="_blank">The Priory Inn</a> in the Cotswold market town of Tetbury has owners who have children of their own and there is a huge focus on providing a haven for families. Travel cots, changing mats and a basket of baby essentials are available, as well as baby listening devices that work from the restaurant and a babysitter if needed. Children can have fun making pizzas and watching them go into the wood oven, and children under 12 stay for free. From £109 for a family of four.
Auchrannie Resort, Isle of Arran
 <a href="http://www.auchrannie.co.uk/" target="_blank">Auchrannie Resort</a> consists of two four-star hotels and 30 five-star self-catering lodges that are perfect for families. Children visiting the Isle of Arran resort can enjoy the magnificent Playbarn, which features a three-tier indoor mega Softplay area, a teen zone, jukebox and big-screen TV. Each week there are a variety of activities from arts and crafts to storytelling and adventure-loving kids can check out the Adventure Cabin for supervised archery, sea kayaking, gorge walking and abseiling in the stunning surroundings. Family rooms from £89.
Augill Castle, Cumbria
 This castle with character offers fairytale turrets and towers, roaring fires and peaceful grounds for decadent family breaks. Magical <a href="http://stayinacastle.com/" target="_blank">Augill Castle</a> is where little ones can enjoy Little Cooks courses, a games room, toys, books and a tree house. There is even a fort in the forest and a cinema room. For even younger guests, parents have baby listening facilities and interconnecting rooms with cots, high chairs and baby and toddler supplies. A great place for fussy eaters, the hotel even offers flexible menus so dinner time is a treat for all. Rooms from £160.
Wave Hotel and Apartments, West Sussex
 Butlins' newest addition is the <a href="http://www.butlins.com/where-to-stay-dine-and-play/where-to-stay/bognor-regis/wave-hotel/index.aspx" target="_blank">Wave Hotel</a> at its Bognor Regis Resort. Perfect for older children, it boasts quirky under-the-sea design features, unique cabin-style children's bedrooms, a family games room and a Kindle library. Each room comes with free WiFi and iPod docking stations, plus the whole family has access to the indoor Splash Waterworld, the Traditional Fairground and fun live shows. Four nights from £53 per person.
St James's Hotel & Club, London
 As London is a city for kids of all ages, luxury hotel <a href="http://www.ghotw.com/hotel/home/st-james-hotel-club.htm" target="_blank">St. James's Hotel & Club</a> has its own dedicated concierge to introduce its younger guests to some of the capital's most famous and more unusual attractions. Assistant Head Concierge Tony O'Connell is the resident expert in all things fun, informative and unusual, and can recommend the right activity, restaurant or theatre show for a great day out. Whether you're visiting with six or 60-year-olds, Tony will find something that appeals to the whole family. Rooms from £215.

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Filed under: Travel News

Trouble with Toxic Fog? Try China's Fresh Air in a Can PA

Beijing is full of smog - and until now the only hope of avoiding it has been to wear a face mask.

But one Chinese entrepreneur believes he has found another solution: by selling cans of "fresh air".

They look like cans of soft drink, cost 5 yuan a go (about 50p) and come in three unique flavours: 'Post-industrial Taiwan' 'Revolutionary Yan'an' and the refreshingly named 'Pristine Tibet.'

While this might sound like a crazy publicity stunt (and a bit of a rip off to boot), the product's millionaire creator, Chen Guangbiao, is convinced that even if the cans have no real health discernable benefits, they will help to raise awareness of China's growing environmental problems.

The Chinese capital has become infamous for its terrible air quality in recent years. The smog has delayed flights, hidden landmarks and sparked countless health warnings.

According to the state-run People's Daily newspaper, China's air quality hasn't been this bad since 1954 and a staggering 24 days out of the first 29 in January 2013, it reached 'hazardous' on the Air Quality Index scale.

Chen Guangbiao has backed up his eco-conscious approach by giving away 5,000 bicycles in attempt to get people out of cars and into the saddle.

He told ABC News that he was serious about tackling health issues and said: "If we don't pay attention to environmental protection, in 10 years everyone of us will be wearing gas masks and carrying oxygen tanks on the streets."

One thing's for sure: the cans of fresh air will also be popular with souvenir hunters. In San Francisco, you can buy cans of their world famous fog, while in Hong Kong, "flavoured fresh air" is already on sale. For more weird and wonderful souvenirs from around the world, see our galelry below...

Weird and wonderful souvenirs from around the world

Roadkill shot glass, Vermont
 Fancy a drink out of the hoof of a dead furry animal? Cheers.
Jamaican bananas, Nashville, Tennessee
Camel, Egybt (or should that be Egypt?)
Eiffel Tower family, Paris
Genuine Sphynxamid, Egypt
Kangaroo testicles, Australia
Pope bottle opener, Vatican
Mount Rushmore oil lamp, USA
'Brabag', Paris
Kate and Will figurines (at least, we think that's who they're meant to be...)
Canned fog, San Francisco
Prostitute mug, Amsterdam
Pisa pants, Italy
Toad coin purse, Australia
Beefeater ducks, London
Obama filpflops, USA
Click on the image above to see our collection of tasteless, tacky, cheap n' nasty souvenirs.

Filed under: Travel News

We've teamed up with Marwell Hotel in Hampshire to offer one lucky AOL Travel user the chance to win a two-night bed and breakfast stay for a family of four, worth £320!

Marwell Hotel is nestled in beautiful Hampshire woodland, just outside the picturesque city of Winchester, which is graced with a fascinating history. The hotel is fantastic for families looking to escape and spend some quality time together and what's more, Marwell Wildlife is right on the hotel's doorstep.

Attractions nearby include Paultons Park and Beaulieu, located in the stunning New Forest. For those looking for nearby cultural activities, Winchester Cathedral and The Great Hall hold great presence within the city and the impressive architecture of both sites is something to behold.

Marwell Hotel can be explored by walking through glass enclosed walkways that look out over surrounding woodland and lead to accommodation lodges. The outdoor play area will keep the children entertained and there are also a few surprises around the hotel to discover - look out for the elephant!

The hotel provides a relaxing and welcoming environment and when families are not busy exploring the local area, the leisure club complete with swimming pool for the children and a spa pool and sauna for the parents can be enjoyed.

Activity packs are provided for all children on arrival and there are a range of indoor and outdoor games for guests to play. DVD players with children's films and games consoles are also available for use in the rooms on request.

Visit marwellhotel.co.uk and 'Like' Marwell Hotel on Facebook for more information.

The prize includes: A two-night family break for two adults and two children or one adult and three children. The prize must be claimed before 31 August 2013 and is subject to availability.

For your chance to win a two-night bed and breakfast stay at the Marwell Hotel, visit our Facebook page and enter your details before 11 February

Filed under: Travel News

Holidaymaker captures incredible pic of waterspout tornado in the Mediterranean Solent

A holidaymaker has managed to capture an amazing picture of a waterspout tornado off the coast of Bastia, Corsica.

Isabelle Filippini, who's based in Paris, was visiting her parents' holiday home on the French island when she spotted the incredible vortex on the horizon.

She told Solent News: "My family and I had been admiring the sea, despite the low clouds.

"Then all of a sudden one of the clouds was pointing towards the sea and I realised it was forming a tornado. I was amazed as the waterspout touched the sea.

"On the ground everything was quiet - the weather had been stormy for a few days but there was no strong wind and no rain. I ran to catch my camera, changed my lens and caught a classic view of the spout."

The tornado, which appears to be dwarfing the yacht in the picture, lasted for about 10 minutes, before another one appeared around 20 minutes later.

Mrs Filippini, 43, added: "I have spent my holidays in Corsica since I was born, but never saw such a tornado.

"I don't think I will ever see anything like it again. It seems to be quite rare, but happens sometimes in the Mediterranean.

"I'm so amazed I got this photo of the boat in front of the huge waterspout - they must have been so scared."

Back in December 2011, photographer Lionel Cironneau managed to capture a picture of a waterspout in the same region, between Nice and Corsica.

A waterspout is a tornado that occurs over a body of water, connected to a cumuliform cloud.

Contrary to popular belief, waterspouts do not suck up water; the water seen in the main funnel cloud is actually water droplets formed by condensation.

They are a more common occurrence in the tropics, but locations at higher latitude within temperate zones also report waterspouts, such as Europe - as is evidenced in Mrs Filippino's picture.

Related articles

Tourists take shelter as tornado spotted near the French Riviera

Two tornadoes hit New York city

More amazing forces of nature below:

Weird weather and strange phenomena around the world

Tornados, USA
 Tornados have been ripping through parts of the USA at an alarming rate during 2011. This example was captured on camera in Limestone County, Alabama, in April. A tornado is a violent, rotating column of air that it is contact with a cumulonimbus cloud and the ground. Also called twisters, they’re characterised by the condensation funnel that touches the earth, and are surrounded by clouds of dust or debris.
Frozen canal, Scotland
 On 11 January, 2010, two pranksters decided to drive their car along the frozen Union Canal in Winchburgh, West Lothian, Scotland. Unfortunately for them, the thaw had already started to set in. The canal froze solid during he longest spell of freezing weather in the UK for almost 30 years.
Dust storm, India
 This dust storm engulfed the desert city of Bikaner, in the western Indian state of Rajasthan on 2 April, 2010. The town was already broiling in temperatures of 39C. Dust storms happen when strong wind carries loose sand and dust away from one area and deposits it in another.
Northern Lights, Alaska
 This image of the Northern lights was captured in the Takotna, Alaska checkpoint during the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race in March 2011. Occurring just within the Arctic and Antarctic circles, the Northern lights – or Aurora borealis, to give them their Latin name – are the light display in the sky caused by the collision of charged particles directed by the Earth's magnetic field.
Rainbow, UK
 This impressive rainbow resulted from a spectacular storm and was photographed in Brandon Hill Park near Clifton, Bristol, in the UK on 27 August, 2010. The rainbow seems to rise from the top of Cabot Tower - which is itself 105ft tall - showing its immense scale. Rainbows are an optical phenomenon that occur when the sun shines on to moisture droplets in the atmosphere.
Freezing rain, USA
 This set of footprints in freezing rain was snapped in Lexington, Kentucky, USA on 16 December, 2010. Rain that falls and becomes ‘supercooled’ when surface temperatures are below freezing point can freeze on impact with anything it touches, unlike snow which remains only partially frozen. The resulting ice is known as glaze. Freezing rain is one of the deadliest weather conditions, bringing down power line and causing numerous road traffic accidents and personal injury.
Smog, Russia
 This example of smog was pictured hanging over Moscow, on 7 August, 2010, and was caused by the billowing smoke from peat bog and forest fires. Smog was originally a description of the pollution resulting from factory smoke and fog in the 1900s. Today it’s more often caused when sunlight reacts with car exhaust, coal power plants or factory emissions and the compounds released from petrol, paints and solvents.
Hurricane, Porto Rico
 This crashing wave was caused by the approaching of the Hurricane Earl in Fajardo, Puerto Rico, in August, 2010. Earl battered some islands across the northeastern Caribbean with heavy rain and roof-ripping winds, rapidly intensifying into a major storm on a path projected to menace the United States. Hurricanes are triggered by low pressure areas forming over warm ocean waters.
Supermoon, around the world
 In March 2011, the 'supermoon' was the closest it had been to earth for18 years lighting up the night sky from just 221,567 miles (356,577 kilometers) away. This snap was taken from Huntington Beach in Los Angeles.
Rainstorms, China
 Rainstorms come and go, but not usually as dramatically as this downpour which completely flooded the town of Wuzhou in southwest China on 9 June, 2010, proving that the trusty umbrella isn’t always protection enough...
Volcanic ash cloud, Iceland
 Ash covered everything for thousands of miles after the eruption of Iceland's Grimsvotn volcano in May 2011 sent clouds of ash high into the air, carrying it toward the European continent on the wind, disrupting flights for the second time in less than a year.
Lightning, Zurich
 This magnificent lightning strike hit a tower during a thunderstorm in Zurich, Switzerland on 12 August, 2010. Lightning occurs when the balance between the negative charge of storm clouds and the positive charge of the earth is redressed by a current passing between the two - with literally stunning results.
Sun halo, Arctic circle
 This halo around the sun was photographed  on the island of Spitsbergen in the Arctic Circle on 19 April, 2011. These halos - spectacular and eerie at the same time - are caused by ice crystals in high clouds. They tend to occur during the summer months, during ‘midnight sun’ season in the Arctic and Antarctic Circles.

Filed under: Travel News

Sail Croatia's islands from just £288 per person

Sail Croatia (0800 193 8289) is offering seven-day Navigator Cruises around Croatia from just £288 per person (saving £30). Book by 28 February for selected routes in May. The price includes accommodation on a standard ship with breakfast and lunch, as well as an expert tour guide. Travel between Split and Dubrovnik, stopping off at beautiful islands and swimming in secluded bays before checking out the nightlife in Hvar and Korcula. Flights from London to Split are available from £78 return per person with Norwegian

This week's best deals: Croatia, Stockholm and Ola Ericson/imagebank.sweden.se

Explore fashionable Stockholm from £182 per person

Cheapflights.co.uk is offering a two-night break in Stockholm, staying at the three-star Connect Hotel Stockholm City, from £182 per person. The hotel is close to the main sights, shops and restaurants. While there, you can enjoy the beautifully preserved buildings of the Old Town, visit the Royal Palace and relax in the city's many cafes. The offer includes bed and breakfast accommodation and return flights from London Heathrow. Valid for travel on 15 February 2013.

Save 30 per cent on a luxury family getaway in the Turks and Caicos Islands

DialAFlight (0844 556 6060) is offering 30 per cent off a seven-night Turks and Caicos holiday, staying at Beaches Turks & Caicos Resort Villages & Spa from £1,459 per person (saving £320). Book by 28 February for selected departures in May, including half-term. The price includes accommodation in a Turquoise Deluxe Room with a Luxury Included(R) all-inclusive package and flights from London with British Airways. All meals and premium brand drinks included.

Filed under: Travel News, UK travel

Abandoned rare tiger cubs make public debut in Kent PA

Two rare Siberian (or Amur) tiger cubs who were hand-reared after their mother abandoned them have been introduced to an adoring public.

Five-month-old cubs Kazimir and Arina were seen playfully bouncing all over their 'father', keeper Ben Warren, at Howletts Wild Animal Park.

Abandoned rare tiger cubs make public debut in Kent PA

According to the Daily Mail, Mr Warren said: "These cute cubs had a hard start in life, as their mum left them alone.

"We made the decision to hand raise them so that they would get the nutrition and care that they needed.

"This involved hand-feeding them both at two-hourly intervals, constant supervision and regular medical checks by the on-site vet team at the wild animal park.

"It's great to see them doing well. They've both got huge characters."

Abandoned rare tiger cubs make public debut in Kent PA

The birth of these two gorgeous cubs is seen as extremely important as it's thought there are only 400 Amur or Siberian tigers left in the wild, in China, eastern Russia, and parts of North Korea.

Amur tigers can grow up to 80 inches long and weigh up to 380lbs - at which point, we imagine, these two won't be playing with Mr Warren...

Related articles

Who knew tigers loved a snowball fight?

Video: Rare Siberian tigers born at Ukraine zoo

More gorgeous baby zoo animals? Oh, go on then:

Baby zoo animals around the world

Javan leopard cubs
 These babies, named Sri Kandi (left) and Arjuna (right) were born at Tierpark, Berlin, Germany. They made their debut on 5 March 2012.
Asian Orang utan
 Clinging to his mum, baby Changi meets his public  for the first time at Krefeld Zoo, Germany.
White rhino
 This little rhino, named Male, was born in January. He's pictured here with his mother, Mana, at Magdeburg Zoo, Germany.
Dingo puppies
 The zoo at Tierpark in Berlin celebrated the birth of a litter of four dingo babies in January.
Shy baby giraffe
 Only a few days old, this baby giraffe, named Kimarle, peaks out from her enclosure at the ZOOM Zoo in Gelsenkirchen, western Germany. The 170cm tall giraffe was born on March 9.
Squirrel monkey and mum
 A one-month-old baby squirrel monkey clings to its mother's back at Qingdao Forest Wildlife Park, China.
Gorilla and mum
 A two-week old baby gorilla is cuddled by her mum, Mumba, a Western Lowland Gorilla, at Port Lympne Wild Animal Park near Ashford, Kent.
Tiny hedgehog
 Born at Cincinnati Zoo,  US, this one-month old hedgehog is being hand reared by keepers until it is old enough to be included in the zoo's outreach programme.
Happy elephant
 Ludwig the baby elephant is clearly happy to be out and about at the Tierpark Hellabrunn Zoo, Munich.
Cuddling meerkats
 These cuties were born in February at Bristol Zoo Gardens.
Polar bear cub
 This cub was born prematurely at Toronto Zoo. His mum rejected him soon after he was born, so he was cared for by staff at the zoo. Here he is making his debut in February.
Baby gorilla, Dublin Zoo
 This six-month old baby Western Lowland Gorilla is seen here enjoying the spring sunshine with her mother at Dublin Zoo.

Filed under: Travel News

Duchess Kate and Prince William jet off to Mustique for winter holiday Getty

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have jetted off to the Caribbean island of Mustique to soak up some winter sun.

Wills, Kate and her mini baby bump will be relaxing in an exclusive £19,000-a-week villa, according to The Sun.

Kate, who was hospitalised with acute morning sickness at the beginning of the year, will surely enjoy the infinity pool, games room, four-poster day beds and far-reaching views of the Caribbean sea.

A source told the Daily Mail: "Their villa is the height of luxury and the perfect place to relax before the endless round of feeds and nappies begins."

The pair are joined on the island by the Duchess' mum and dad, Carole and Michael, who have rented a pad nearby to give the parents-to-be some space.

The royal couple have enjoyed more than six holidays together on the island, which was one of Princess Margaret's favourite places. In fact, she purchased 10 acres of land there in the 1960s.

Duchess Kate and Prince William jet off to Mustique for winter holiday Splash

Back in 2006, Wills and Kate were pictured enjoying a boat trip around the island (pictured above), and Kate has also visited many times with just her family.

Last year, it was even reported that Kate's parents are planning to buy a holiday mansion on the island. And why not? It boasts a balmy year-round temperature of 75C to 80C and its 1,400 acres are home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Plus, Mick Jagger owns a villa there. What more do you need?

Related articles

Kate and Pippa Middleton jet off to Mustique for family break

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Discover more about Mustique:

Views of Mustique

See more of Kate's favourite holiday destinations here:

Kate Middleton: Top Holiday Destinations

Where: Mustique When: August, 2008 The holiday: Kate and William spent a week at this upmarket Caribbean paradise haven, which enjoys year-round temperatures of 80F. The island became well known for being a popular holiday hotspot for Princess Margaret, and is also a favourite with Mick Jagger, David Bowie, and Elton John.
Where: Klosters, Switzerland When: March, 2008 The holiday: Kate and William enjoyed a family getaway when they headed to this exclusive ski resort with Wills' dad Prince Charles. The couple are both a dab-hand at working the slopes, and Kate even showed her cheeky side when she poked William with her ski pole. The royal couple also enjoyed a holiday here in March 2005.
Where: St Andrews, Scotland When: February, 2011 The holiday: OK, it was work mixed with pleasure, but Kate Middleton and Prince William returned to the university where they first met for their second royal engagement in February. Although they were officially there for work, the royal couple were also said to have enjoyed the beautiful local countryside, which prides itself in being part of the Green Tourism Scheme.
Where: Lake District, England The holiday: Kate showed off her inherent sporty side on a family holiday in the Lake District when she was just four years old. The princess-to-be can be seen getting her hands dirty as she climbed rocks with a look of pure joy on her face. Cute.
Where: Johannesburg, South Africa When: November, 2006 The holiday: Kate headed to Johannesburg to celebrate the 21st birthday of Richard Branson's son, Sam. The birthday group reportedly headed off on safari, and, unsurprisingly, travelled first class on Virgin Atlantic.
Where: Ibiza When: September 2006 The holiday: Kate showed off her amazing bikini body when the royal couple enjoyed some sun, sand and sea action in Ibiza in 2006, where they were spotted soaking up the sun on a luxury yacht.
Where: Courchevel, France When: March 2010 The holiday: Ski fanatics Kate and William enjoyed the powder at France's celebrity-favourite resort, Courchevel, in 2010. The pair, who were on holiday with friends and family, including Kate's sister Pippa, were spotted enjoying a 'loving' meal at a moutain-top restaurant.
Where: Kenya, Africa When: November 2010 The holiday: Want to know where Prince William popped the question? The couple were on a luxurious safari holiday in Kenya, where they stayed at the stunning Cheli & Peacock's Lewa Safari Camp situated in the Lewa Conservancy. The camp has 12 sumptuous tents, which cone with ensuite bathrooms, and a swimming pool overlooking the plains. Very romantic.
Where: Birkhall, Scotland When: December 2009 The holiday: Where do you go if you're dating a royal a fancy a weekend of hunting? Your father-in-law-to-be's fabulous country retreat in Scotland, of course. The royal couple spent New Year here in 2009, and regularly enjoy weekend visits to this beautiful hideaway.
Where: Jordan When: 1984 The holiday: It was a pretty long holiday... well, two and a half years to be precise! Kate's family moved to Jordan when she was two, and they lived there until she was four and a half. Kate even attended nursery in Amman. Aww.

Filed under: World travel

Ten hotels made from weird things Capsule Hotel, Netherlands

Hotels made from salt, concrete pipes and trams? You won't find a place more unusual than these to spend the night...

Ten hotels made from weird things

ICEHOTEL, Sweden
 If visiting an icy region of Sweden isn't enough, you can even sleep in ice at the <a href="http://www.icehotel.com/" target="_blank">ICEHOTEL</a>. As the world's first and largest hotel made of ice, the ICEHOTEL in Jukkasjarvi covers 5,500 square metres and is constructed from 2,000 tonnes of snow and ice. Inside, you'll find 65 rooms, an ICEBAR to enjoy ABSOLUT drinks 'on the rocks', and an ice church for unique weddings. Rooms from 3,200 krona (£313) per night.
Cove Park's Fielding Retreats, Scotland
 Located on a 50-acre site overlooking Loch Long in the Rosneath peninsula, Cove Park's Fielding Retreats prove you can do a lot more with shipping containers than, well, ship stuff. The pods are industry standard shipping containers that have an open-plan layout with cooking and sleeping facilities for guests to spend the night. They even come with balconies overlooking a delightful pond and offer beautiful views of the surrounding hills. From £100 per night via <a href="http://www.unusualhotelsoftheworld.com/CovePark" target="_blank">Unusual Hotels of the World</a>
NEW Hotel, Greece
 The interior of the <a href="http://www.yeshotels.gr/category/hotels/newhotel/" target="_blank">NEW Hotel</a> in Athens is made of all sorts of recycled materials - old newspapers, ladders, bark cloth, you name it. Designed by renowned duo the Campana Brothers, the hotel fuses old with new, displaying bespoke furniture made from recycled and reinterpreted everyday materials. In the rooms you'll find jagged mirrors and quirky chairs made out of newspapers, and the handmade fixtures really make guests feel like they are living and breathing a major art installation. €160 (£138) for a double room including breakfast.
Controversy Tram Hotel, Netherlands
 Night in a tram, anyone? The Controversy Tram Hotel in the Netherlands consists of five bed and breakfast rooms converted from city trams and railcars. The cool themed tram bedrooms used to run on the streets of Amsterdam and Germany, and there are double beds, shower and toilet facilities and a sink top unit on board. There is a cute terrace with a seating area inside a 'tram shelter' and a TV and VCR with 200 videotapes that you'll find inside a UFO! From €60 (£50) per night from <a href="http://www.unusualhotelsoftheworld.com/ControversyTramHotel" target="_blank">Unusual Hotels of the World</a>
TuboHotel, Mexico
 Ever dreamed of sleeping in a concrete drainpipe? No, we thought not. But the rooms (or tubes) at <a href="http://www.tubohotel.com/" target="_blank">TuboHotel</a> are not the cold and uncomfortable kind you'd imagine. They're super luxurious with queen-sized beds, Egyptian cotton sheets and heated too! Located in Tepoztlan, Mexico, TuboHotel's rooms are stacked in a pyramid shape, reflecting the Aztec pyramid of El Tepozteco that overlooks the town. We bet you want to sleep in a pipe now, don't you? Rooms for two from $400 (£20).
Maya Guesthouse, Switzerland
 Looking for ski accommodation with a difference? <a href="http://www.maya-guesthouse.ch/uk/index.php" target="_blank">Maya Guesthouse</a> in Valais is the first hotel built entirely out of straw bales. What makes the guesthouse unique is that it is stylish and elegant too. Although guests won't find straw spread across the floor, parts of the walls have windows displaying the bales. And there's no need to worry about keeping warm high up on the Swiss mountain location, as the 90cm-thick straw walls keep the building heated throughout the winter. Double rooms 160CHF (£112) per night.
Hotel Vrouwe van Stavoren, Netherlands
 Perfect for wine lovers, the <a href="http://www.hotel-vrouwevanstavoren.nl/engels/indexengels.htm" target="_blank">Hotel Vrouwe van Stavoren</a> in the Netherlands is where you can sleep in a wine barrel. Located in the old harbour of the once thriving trade town of Stavoren, the hotel was built from four 14,500-litre wine casks that were shipped from Switzerland and converted into comfortable and unique rooms. Each wine cask comes with a small sitting room, TV, radio, shower and bathroom, and the hotel is working on incorporating an additional eight casks from the Beaujolais vineyards of France, each with a capacity of 23,000 litres, so they'll be even bigger than the current rooms. Wine casks from €89.65 (£76.50) per night.
Palacio de Sal, Bolivia
 How's this for an eco-hotel? Built entirely from its surroundings, this hotel on the world's largest salt flat, Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia, is a truly unique place to rest your head. <a href="http://www.palaciodesal.com.bo/en-us/" target="_blank">Palacio de Sal</a>'s walls, floors, ceilings and much of its furniture, including its chairs, beds and tables are made from salt blocks. A huge one million 35cm blocks were used to construct the 16-room hotel and it features all the luxuries you'd find in an upmarket hotel - a dry sauna, whirlpool, steam room and even its own saltwater baths. Rooms cost $130 (£82) per night.
Train Inn, Canada
 Forget nodding off on the train home from work. Instead, spend the whole night in a train at the Train Inn, located in Nova Scotia, Canada. The century-old train station in Tatamagouche has been restored and has seven train carriages dating from 1911 to 1978, which serve as deluxe accommodation. The station itself has three bedrooms in the original stationmaster's residence and below, on the first floor, is a railway museum, cafe and gift shop, which were once the men and ladies' waiting rooms. In the Dining Car, built in 1928, you can have a real first class experience and enjoy dishes, such as salmon and steak. Rooms from £128 per night from <a href="http://www.frontier-canada.co.uk/" target="_blank">frontier-canada.co.uk</a>
Capsule Hotel, Netherlands
 If you're claustrophobic or suffer from motion sickness, look away now! The Capsule Hotel in the Netherlands is made of oil rig survivor pods that have been repurposed to become floating rooms moored near The Hague. They're not the most glamorous of hotel rooms, but each pod offers cosy protection from the elements for up to three people. Inside, you'll find an emergency chemical toilet, snacks and a DVD player. From €60 (£50) per night from <a href="http://www.unusualhotelsoftheworld.com/capsulehotel" target="_blank">Unusual Hotels of the World</a>

Filed under: World travel

Vimeo

This time lapse video captures beautifully the essence of both the Northern Lights and one of Iceland's most incredible regions: the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon.

Jokulsarlon is the largest and deepest of the country's glacial lakes (apparently, it's growing all the time because of the melting glaciers).

Film maker Anna Possenberg says: "Few people know Iceland during winter time... they miss a beautiful part of the island: the snow covered rocks, the magic arctic light and especially the fantastic aurora borealis dancing in the sky."

Always wanted to see the Northern Lights? Check out our top ten places to do just that:

Where to see the Northern Lights

Iceland
 If the conditions are right, you can view the Northern Lights throughout Iceland, although you have a greater chance if you're far from the city lights. You can choose Reykjavik as a base and travel two to three hours to the countryside or opt to stay in a rural hotel. <a href="http://www.re.is/" target="_blank">Reykjavik Excursions</a> runs tours each night from Reykjavik to the countryside for £26 per person. Discover the World offers a three-night trip staying in the rural Hotel Ranga and the Northern Lights Inn in south Iceland. You'll visit the Golden Circle route, which covers the Thingvellir National Park and at night you'll search for the Northern Lights from the hotel window or the hot tub before staying at the Northern Lights Inn near the geothermal Blue Lagoon. The trip costs £532 per person including airport transfers, accommodation, entrance to Blue Lagoon and a driver/guide. Visit <a href="http://www.discover-the-world.co.uk/en/" target="_blank">discover-the-world.co.uk</a>
Yukon, Canada
 In Yukon, Canada the Northern Lights can be viewed from August meaning you can enjoy your summer holiday and see the amazing display. Watch the green, yellow, magenta and blue lights dance from the comfort of your cabin or from a steaming hot tub. For a winter visit, Frontier Canada offers a three-night stay at the Inn on the Lake with meals, transfers, snowmobiling, Aurora Borealis viewing, snowshoeing, tobogganing and winter clothing from £558 per person between December and April. Visit <a href="http://www.frontier-canada.co.uk/" target="_blank">frontier-canada.co.uk</a>
Longyearbyen, Norway
 Longyearbyen is the most northern town in the world and offers a backdrop of amazing table mountains and remoteness. You can experience the dancing Northern Lights on a snowmobile safari, allowing you to travel away from the lights of Longyearbyen where they appear even brighter. Around Longyearbyen, you'll find restaurants and cafes serving local food, like reindeer, grouse and arctic char. Stay at the <a href="http://www.radissonblu.com/hotel-spitsbergen" target="_blank">Radisson Blu Polar Hotel Spitsbergen</a> and drink at its pub, which is the most northern in the world!
Saariselka, Finland
 Did you know that some regions of Finland have over 200 nights a year when you can see the Northern Lights? Saariselka is a lively village in eastern Lapland where you can see the lights and enjoy winter sports. Stay at Kakslauttanen Igloo Village for the chance to view the beautiful and eerie lights from a cosy log cabin, glass igloo or snow igloo. A three-night stay in a log cabin starts at £945 based on two people sharing. Visit <a href="http://www.kakslauttanen.fi/" target="_blank">kakslauttanen.fi</a>
Northern Scotland, UK
 Scotland is the most likely place in the UK to see the Northern Lights. The best regions are Aberdeenshire, Northern Highlands, Orkney and Shetland. Although it's much further from the Arctic than Norway, Sweden and Finland, it is possible to see them during winter. Stay at the Pentland Guest House in Thurso, where owner Liz Sutherland can contact you when the lights are visible. She'll also arrange for minibuses, prepare packed evening meals and serve breakfast until 12pm throughout winter if you're having a lie-in after a late-night viewing. Visit <a href="http://www.pentlandlodgehouse.co.uk/" target="_blank">pentlandlodgehouse.co.uk</a>
Abisko, Sweden
 The clear sky and dry location of Abisko in Swedish Lapland provide an ideal backdrop for the Northern Lights and the village is one of the world's top places to see them. It lies 195km north of the Arctic Circle and apart from seeing nature's stunning light display, there's snowshoeing and skiing to enjoy in Abisko. Discover the World offers an ICEHOTEL & Abisko holiday from £1,195 per person including flights, two nights at the ICEHOTEL, one night at Abisko, a three-course meal and an excursion to the Sky Station. Visit <a href="http://www.discover-the-world.co.uk/" target="_blank">discover-the-world.co.uk</a>
Tromso, Norway
 To see how accessible the Northern Lights can be, head to Tromso in Norway where you can see some stunning displays above the city centre. Even though they can be viewed in Tromso, you may want to escape the city to see the Northern Lights at their best. The Aurora Zone offers a four-night stay in and around Tromso for £1,675, with one night in Tromso and three nights in the wilderness outside the city. Meals, a husky safari, flights and transfers are included. Visit <a href="http://www.theaurorazone.com/holidays/13/the-aurora-heartlands" target="_blank">theaurorazone.com</a>
Northwest Territories, Canada
 With winter lasting half of the year in Canada's Northwest Territories, there are over 240 nights when it’s possible to view the aurora. The best time to see the lights is between December and March and Yellowknife has the most potential. As the landscape is quite flat in the Northwest Territories, you can see the full display from most areas and the region also boasts clear skies. At the Aurora Village you can enjoy the whole Northern Lights experience with a viewing tour, a husky ride and watching the display from the comfort of the outdoor heated seats. Visit <a href="http://www.auroravillage.com/" target="_blank">auroravillage.com</a>
Fairbanks, Alaska
 Because of its close proximity to the North Pole, Fairbanks in Alaska's Interior is one of the world's top places to see the Northern Lights. The city has the auroral oval passing over it, meaning there are many nights when the lights are out so you have a great chance of seeing them here. Stay in a remote cabin away from the city lights to get the best views. You can also get close to the aurora by going on a dog tour at night and experiencing mushing. Visit <a href="http://www.explorefairbanks.com/" target="_blank">explorefairbanks.com</a>
Kangerlussuaq, Greenland
 For easy access to the Northern Lights in Greenland, stable weather conditions and very little settlement creating pollution-free skies, head to Kangerlussuaq, where you can see the magnificent display in all its glory. Around Kangerlussuaq you can experience the Greenlandic ice sheet, which is a 100,000-year-old ice cap that you can fly, drive, sail and walk to. There's also hiking opportunities where you might see the musk oxen and reindeer.

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Trains, planes and automobiles are so last century. Get a new perspective on the world from the back of a donkey, a horse-drawn caravan, a pair of snow shoes, er... and lots of other things besides...

Holidays with wacky transport

Go horse drawn caravanning in Cumbria
 Slow down to the gentle pace of Charlie and Bob,  trusty carthorses who will take you on a journey to see the Cumbrian countryside in a traditional, hand-painted Gypsy wagon. Meander via wildflower meadows, riverside camps, organic tea shops and private lakeside saunas: bucolic bliss. Weekend adventures from £340 for a family of four. Visit <a href="http://www.wanderlusts.co.uk/" target="_blank">wanderlusts.co.uk</a>.
View Vietnam from a sidecar
 Do you yearn for the feel the wind in your hair and unobstructed views of Vietnam's paddy fields, villages and coastline, without the stress of negotiating South East Asia's roads and traffic? Then make yourself comfy in the sidecar of a vintage motorbike while a local driver takes you off the beaten track on a sidecar safari. Trips last from three to eight days. A 10-night tour costs £1,169 per person, including flights and accommodation at the 4-star Victoria Hotel, Hoi An Beach Resort and Spa. Visit <a href="http://www.travelbag.co.uk" target="_blank">travelbag.co.uk</a>
Trek on an elephant around Laos
 Get an elephant's-eye view of the rainforest as you travel through dense, green jungle alongside Laos' Nam Khan River. An elephant ride, starting from Luang Prabang, is part of <a href="http://www.contiki.com" target="_blank">Contiki'</a>s 14-day Asian Adventure to Laos, Thailand and Cambodia. From £1,102 per person, land only, including hotel accommodation.
Take a donkey trek in Portugal
 If you've ever been hiking with small children to the constant refrain of 'I'm tiiiiired', a donkey hiking holiday could be the solution. Walk alongside the hairy beasts through the wonderful scenery in the wilder parts of the Algarve and, when your child gets tired, just pop them on the donkey's back and trot on. A seven-day hiking tour costs from €1,800 per person, including all accommodation, meals, donkeys and guides. Visit <a href="http://www.portugalhike.com" target="_blank">portugalhike.com</a>
Get whizzy on a Twizy in the Brecon Beacons
 Ok, they might look a bit funny, but these nifty little cars are actually a wonderful way to see the countryside and breathe the fresh air. Bag one of the Brecon Beacon's six brand new Renault Twizy electric cars, which have zero environmental impact and can be recharged at charging points at the park's main attractions and restaurants. Rental costs from £45 per day with <a href="http://www.ecotravelnetwork.co.uk" target="_blank">ecotravelnetwork.co.uk</a>
Skateboard your way around Cornwall
 If you didn't spend your youth skateboarding with the cool kids, it's never too late to try boarding... But forget competing with the teenagers in urban parks, try zooming effortlessly around Cornwall's riverside and woodland paths instead on a FiiK™ Electric Skateboard, only recently launched in Europe. A weekend trip costs from £350 per person, including luxury self-catered accommodation and two guided half-day rides. Visit <a href="http://www.adventuretemples.com" target="_blank">adventuretemples.com</a>.
Cross the Himalayas on Royal Enfield Bullet motorbike
 Why should Ewan MacGregor have all the fun? Mount a 500c classic Enfield Bullet motorbike and roar across remote mountain passes to the Tibetan border. Cross the Silk Road and Spiti River Valley and a single-wire suspension bridge, pass Buddhist monasteries, remote villages and snow leopards. A 14-night Trans Himalayan Odyssey costs £2,978 per person for a single rider, including flights, accommodation, motorbike rental, fuel and support. Visit <a href="http://www.transindus.co.uk/" target="_blank">transindus.co.uk</a>.
See San Francisco from a Segway
 San Francisco is a stunning city but damn, it sure is hilly. Save your aching legs and see the sights with minimum effort from atop a Segway - the motorised scooters which are all the rage among time-poor, adventure-hungry or just ever so slightly lazy tourists. A three-hour San Francisco City Segway Tour costs from £43 per person. Tours are also available in other cities including Paris, Amsterdam, Washington D.C and Singapore. Visit <a href="http://www.GoSeeDo.com" target="_blank">GoSeeDo.com</a>.
Take a Vespa around Morocco
 Mod it up all way from London to Morocco on a classic Vespa PX125. Spinout is launching its new Vespa tours programme in April with the 'Fezpa Run' - an eight-day, two continent adventure complete with treasure hunt - the victor wins a brand new Vespa. The trip costs £795, including eight days Vespa rental, two nights' accommodation and itinerary. Visit <a href="http://www.spinout.eu" target="_blank">spinout.eu</a>.
Go snowshoeing in the French Pyrenees
 Skiing and snowboarding are all very well, but if you're the kind of person who likes to walk, rather than run, the ancient activity of snowshoeing could be your style of mountain transport. After a day of walking in the High Pyrenean mountains around Ax les Thermes, rest your aching limbs in the hamams, saunas and outdoor hot tubs of the town's Les Bains de Couloubret spa. A four-night Snowshoe and Spa minibreak costs £470 per person, including accommodation, transfers, guides, spa access and meals. Visit <a href="http://www.marmot-tours.co.uk" target="_blank">marmot-tours.co.uk</a>.

Filed under: Travel News, UK travel

And Britain's least romantic place is... PA

Scunthorpe, the 'Industrial Garden Town' of North Lincolnshire, has received the dubious honour of being crowned the UK's most unromantic destination in a new poll.

It seems that being home to the largest steel processing centre in the country wasn't enough to bring out the British public's romantic side as it beat Bradford and Blackpool into second and third place to claim the top spot with 21 per cent of the votes.

The Lake District (pictured, above), with its combination of poetry and scenery saw it top the poll as the most romantic destination with 30 per cent of the votes. Cornwall and The Cotswolds coming in second and third place.

The poll was conducted by Hotels.com in the run up to Valentine's Day. It asked its visitors to vote for their most and least romantic places to visit in the UK.

A spokesman for the Hotels.com said: "We hope our list will prove inspirational to those looking to plan a last-minute romantic - or maybe unromantic - get away."

Some, however, aren't particularly impressed with Scunthorpe's latest accolade and have been quick to defend the town.

One North Lincolnshire council spokesman told local news site This is Scunthorpe: "We feel the perception is a little unfair. With internationally renowned restaurants such as Winteringham Fields, stately homes such as Normanby Hall and a Championship Golf course and spa resort from Q-Hotels on our doorstep, Scunthorpe really is a hidden gem."

Looking for something a little more saucy than Scunthorpe for your Valentine this year? Check out our selection of sensual ideas for 2013...

Top 10 sensual Valentine's breaks

Enjoy ultimate privacy in Paris
 Looking for the last word in privacy? Call off the search. One by The Five is a luxurious and hedonistic single-suite hotel with a number of sexy extras, including a cocktail station with all the ingredients for a special "love elixir" (champagne, cognac, berries, cinnamon and sugar), as well as a choice of five sensual fragrances to be diffused into your room. Clouds and fibre-optic stars surround the suspended "floating" designer bed, while a 24-hour concierge will be on hand during your stay to cater to your every need. Price: Starts from £396.00 per room, per night. Visit <a href="http://www.onebythefive.com " target="_blank">onebythefive.com</a>
Get 'kitted out' in Barcelona
 The helpful staff at Hotel Barcelona Princess - on the world-famous Avenida Diagonal- have whipped up the perfect sensual Valentine's package, including accommodation in a Junior Suite with special romantic decoration, a sumptuous breakfast, a bottle of Cava and chocolate-covered strawberries, a free mini-bar and access to the sauna and pool. But the best bit? The offer also includes an “erotic kit” (plume, mask, lubricant, massage gel, condoms and lollipop included) to ensure a more-than-pleasurable stay.The hotel also boasts a sun terrace with pool on the 23rd floor with spectacular views of the city. Price: £121 per room per night from 18 January to 22 February. Hotel Barcelona Princess is a member of Great Hotels of the World Premium Collection. Visit <a href="http://www.ghotw.com/hotel/offer/14497/hotel-barcelona-princess.htm" target="_blank">ghotw.com</a>.
'Stay and play' in Brighton
 With frisky couples in mind, myhotels has partnered with erotic lifestyle brand 210th to create a naughty-but-nice package available at myhotel Bloomsbury, myhotel Chelsea and myhotel Brighton. All three hotels offer a cheeky box from 210th including a luxury vibrator, massage oil and pleasure balls, satin blindfolds and 25 saucy assignments to surprise each other. The package also includes an overnight stay and an energy-boosting (!) continental buffet breakfast for two the morning after. Price: From £175, based on two people sharing, valid for stays between 1 February and 29 February 2013. Visit myhotels.com or call  020 7637 2000.
Strip off in your own private spa in Switzerland
 Grand Hotel Kronenhof, a neo-Baroque property tucked away in a pretty Engadine valley, is offering a "Time for Two" Valentine's package that starts with a trip to Pontresina on a magical train ride from Zurich. A chauffeur-driven car will then take you to the hotel, where you can sip Champagne and dine at the hotel's Michelin-star restaurant. Relax for two hours in a private spa suite, where you can take a hydrojet bath together, before lounging on a double waterbed overlooking the snow-capped mountain peaks, followed by a simultaneous 25-minute aroma massage and a rasul ceremony in the steam bath. Sounds steamy, alright... Price: Grand Hotel Kronenhof’s “Time for Two” three-night package costs from CHF 1240 (approx £815) per person and includes accommodation, gourmet half-board (including breakfast buffet and dinner in the one-star Michelin restaurant Kronenstübli), welcome Champagne, a private horse-drawn carriage to Val Roseg and exclusive use of the private spa suite for two hours.  Visit <a href="http://www.kronenhof.com/" target="_blank">kronenhof.com</a>.
Hot oils and hot tubs in Hampshire
 Swap the sofa for a fabulously sophisticated treehouse at the upmarket spa hotel Chewton Glen in Hampshire. Your wrap-around balcony comes complete with its own hot tub, perfect for a night of romance. Relax in front of the wood burning stove and enjoy a candlelit dinner for two, as well as a sensual 90-minute couple's hot oil candle treatment in the luxury of your floating pavilion. You'll also receive a Champagne and spa treats hamper on arrival, together with a breakfast hamper on both mornings. Price: The 'Height of Romance' package starts from £865 per room, per night, and also includes full use of the spa and leisure facilities. Available from 8 to 17 February. Visit <a href="http://www.chewtonglen.com/whats-on/valentines-break.aspx" target="_blank">chewtonglen.com</a>.
Have a magical moment in the Maldives
 A three-day jet set to the Maldives? Very flash. The Beach House at Iruveli Maldives offers a host of sexy treats, including a private beach dinner for two under the stars, a free coconut truffle spa treatment for two, breakfast in bed, and a castaway gift experience on a deserted island.   Price: $1,950.00 per room per night (approx. £1,210) plus taxes and service charge. Valid for selected departures during February. Visit <a href="http://www.beachhousecollection.com/ " target="_blank">beachhousecollection.com</a>.
Soak up the souks in Marrakech
 Exotic Marrakech just oozes sensuality, and a stay at the Dar Jaguar, an ancient riad that has been lovingly restored as a beautiful private guesthouse, will not disappoint. Get cosy in your room with Champagne and strawberries upon arrival; enjoy a full body massage; take an exotic excursion beyond Marrakech to the waterfalls of Ouzoud; have a cooking lesson followed by a three-course candlelit dinner on the terrace overlooking the medina; and receive a private professional guided tour of the souk. Price: From £600 per couple not including flights. Visit <a href="http://www.mantiscollection.com/dar-jaguar/" target="_blank">mantiscollection.com</a>
Bathe under the stars in Botswana
 Falling asleep under the spectacular African night sky after an indulgent bush bath in beautiful natural surroundings is a seductive, intimate experience. Lie back and reflect on an incredible day of game viewing in Botswana’s Okavango Delta in a private bath for two under the stars at the five-star Sanctuary Baines’ Camp. Each suite has a four-poster “sky bed” that can then be rolled out onto the candlelit wooden deck for an intimate night under the star-filled African sky. Price: Rainbow Tours (<a href="http://www.rainbowtours.co.uk/accommodation/botswana/baines-camp/ " target="_blank">rainbowtours.co.uk</a> or call 020 7666 1250) offer three nights at Sanctuary Baines' Camp from £2795 per person. Price is based on two people sharing and includes international flights from the UK to Maun, light aircraft flights from Maun to the camp's private airstrip, an Elephant interaction excursion, all meals and scheduled game activities. Visit<a href="http://www.sanctuaryretreats.com/" target="_blank"> sanctuaryretreats.com</a> or call 020 7190 7728.
Go skinny dipping in Dorset
 If you can't afford to star-gaze in a bath in Botswana, there's a wonderfully romantic - and purse-friendly- alternative in picturesque Dorset. The Bothy is a stylish self-catering sanctuary for "grown ups only, please", according to its website. With its private courtyard and copper bateau tub, this is the place for skinny dipping under the stars. Valentine’s visitors also get a goodie bag with locally made massage balm and homemade chocolate truffles, to warm things up even more. Where:, Launceston Farm, Tarrant Launceston, Blandford Forum, Dorset. Price: £325 for a three-night break for two. Visit <a href="http://www.sawdays.co.uk/special-places/britain/england/dorset/the-bothy-launceston-farm" target="_blank">sawdays.co.uk</a> or call 01258 830528
Be a real-life Victoria's Secret angel in London
 For a Valentine’s Day with  a real 'frisky' factor, St. James’s Hotel & Club have teamed up with Victoria’s Secret to offer a seductive package that includes a personal shopping experience in the Angel Suite at Victoria’s Secret’s flagship store (pictured) on London’s New Bond Street. Armed with a £70 gift card you can stock up on come-and-get-me lingerie and accessories. The "Seduction" package includes a one-night stay at St. James’s and lots of indulgent treats, including breakfast in bed, and a box of Victoria’s Secret Pink Champagne Truffles by Charbonnel et Walker. Price: The package is £492 and is available throughout Valentine’s week (11 to 17 February). St. James’s Hotel & Club is a member of Great Hotels of the World Luxury Collection. Visit <a href="http://www.ghotw.com/hotel/offer/14489/st-james-hotel-club.htm" target="_blank">ghotw.com</a> or call 020 7380 3658.

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Filed under: World travel, Croatia

Get back to nature in Croatia on a tour of North Dalmatia's national parks, nature in Croatia, wildlife, walking holidays Krka National Park/Roshina Jowaheer

Thought Croatia was all about the beaches and billionaires partying on yachts?

The national parks of North Dalmatia are still unspoiled by tourism. Here's why adventurous travellers should see this hidden part of Croatia.

Think again. Head instead to the mainland in North Dalmatia and you'll discover breathtaking scenery, spectacular natural wonders and an abundance of wildlife.

It's well worth taking the time to visit largest national park, the stunning Plitvice National Park with its turquoise-coloured lakes, waterfalls and even brown bears.

Then there's the Paklenica National Park, located south of the Velebit mountain range, which is a haven for rock climbers and hikers with its mixture of high peaks and breathtaking views.

And further south, at the Kornati National Park (which you have to explore by boat), there are 90 or so uninhabited islands with dramatic cliffs and rocky landscapes. The crystal-clear sea makes it a paradise for diving and snorkelling too.

Krka National Park, too, is a must-see. Home to picturesque waterfalls, cascades and the lovely Krka River. It's a serene setting and looks as Photoshopped as it sounds!

See the natural beauty of North Dalmatia's national parks in pictures before you choose which one to visit first...

North Dalmatia's national parks

Get sprayed by the water at the Plitvice Lakes National Park
 There are various sightseeing routes that you can follow. The F trail takes you from the boat ride to a walk through the limestone canyon of the lower lakes and the big waterfall where you can experience being sprayed by the water - an exhilarating experience you must try.
Check out the views from above at the Plitvice Lakes National Park
 There are a few steep climbs where you'll find some great viewpoints with breathtaking views of the blue-green lakes backed by tall cliffs making for a perfect photo opportunity. Towards the end of the F route there is the Panoramic Train, a shuttle bus that takes you back to the start of the trail, where you can take a different route to explore another area of the park.
Explore the Velebit mountain range at the Paklenica National Park
 Around a two-hour drive south of the Plitvice Lakes and just 45 minutes from the city of Zadar, lies the <a href="http://www.paklenica.hr/paklenica_en/index_en.html" target="_blank">Paklenica National Park</a>, which is located at the southern slopes of the Velebit mountain range. The park is home to the impressive canyons of Velika Paklenica and Mala Paklenica, and is a haven for hikers and climbers.
Climb and hike to get the most out of the Paklenica National Park
 As the most visited climbing centre in Croatia, Paklenica is the place to get active but if you're not brave enough to test out the rocks, you can watch in awe as climbers from Croatia and beyond show off their techniques.
Follow the trails to see the Paklenica National Park's beauty spots
 If you really want to get to know the park with all its wildlife and natural beauty, hiking is the best way to get around, with 200km of trails and paths for you to explore. There are boards and mountaineering signs for you to follow and some of the top attractions to look out for include the Manita Pec cave and the Paklenica Mill. And if you get thirsty there are springs along the way with natural drinking water.
Hit the water and check out the Kornati National Park
 For a change of scenery and to experience one of Croatia's well-preserved spots by sea, hop on a boat and discover the <a href="http://kornati.hr/eng/" target="_blank">Kornati National Park</a>. Just 45 minutes by boat from Murter lies 89 of the 152 islands of the Kornati archipelago that make up the national park. The unique and uninhabited islands have an eerie charm, with karst limestone, cliffs and modest stone villages forming the landscapes.
Make a few stops to take in the culture of the Kornati National Park
 The famous Kornati 'crowns' (cliffs that rise steeply from the sea reaching over 80 metres), the largest island Kornat where you can learn about the national park's diverse marine life and the Magazinova Skrila land-slide site are a few of the attractions to explore. There are diving visits arranged so you can see the underwater crowns and if you fancy experiencing Kornati life the Murter Tourist Office can arrange for you to go olive picking, sheep shearing and fish for your own meal with a Kornati family. Other activities include swimming, snorkelling, wildlife watching, sailing and walking, plus if you bring your own boat there are 20 bays where you can spend the night under the stars and around 20 restaurants on the islands serving fresh fish and local Kornati specialities, like lamb.
Relax in a serene setting at the Krka National Park
 Head further south and back onto the mainland just a few kilometres north-east of the historic city of Sibenik where the lush <a href="http://www.npkrka.hr/" target="_blank">Krka National Park</a> is located. A place of plants, wildlife and wonderful waterfalls, the park is situated along the middle-lower part of the Krka River. The most beautiful attractions include the Skradinki Buk natural pool with its waterfalls and cascades, the Roski Slap cascades and Visovac Island.
Discover the Krka National Park's prettiest features on foot
 The best way to view the cascades and waterfalls is by walking, where you can take a leisurely stroll along the trails and across the wooden bridges. There are various viewpoints around the park for you to see it at its best and old water mills and a souvenir shop you can visit. You can swim at the Krka National Park under the main waterfall too - an experience not to be missed in the summer. Don't forget to look out for wildlife at the park as golden eagles, peregrine falcons, griffon vultures, bats, brown trout and European otters are just some of the creatures you may spot.
Take a boat ride at the Plitvice Lakes National Park
 As the oldest and largest national park in south-eastern Europe, the <a href="http://www.np-plitvicka-jezera.hr/en/" target="_blank">Plitvice Lakes National Park</a> is considered one of Croatia's most beautiful. It's characterised by turquoise-coloured lakes arranged in cascades and displays some of the country's natural beauty at its best. Start your visit by hopping on the boat at the park's largest lake Kozjak, which runs every 15 or 30 minutes, depending on the season. Once it drops you off on the other side of the lake you can follow the trails to discover the 16 different lakes, caves and waterfalls.

Filed under: World travel

Shh! Ten top secret European villages Soglio, Switzerland. Rex

Fancy going somewhere completely different this year? A holiday doesn't have to mean staying in an overpriced, over-visited tourist hotspot: get off the beaten track and explore some of Europe's lesser-known regions. These little villages will charm the pants off you: think pretty cobbled streets, whitewashed houses and historic squares... and best of all, no hoards of tourists to blot the landscape!

Ten secret European villages

Apeiranthos, Greece
 On the island of Naxos lies the mountainous village of Apeiranthos set in the hilltop of Mount Fanaria, which looks as though it is making its way to the top in order to glimpse a better view of the Aegean Sea. Named the 'Marble Village' by locals and surrounded by lush green valleys and rocky cliffs, the architecture of Apeiranthos has been well preserved with its neoclassical mansions, beautiful squares and churches, all made of white marble. Amazingly, the local dialect and traditions of Apeiranthos are similar to those of mountainous villages in Crete.
Carlingford, Ireland
 This gorgeous little village on the east coast of Ireland is somewhat overlooked by tourists but popular among the locals, with its great seafood and annual Leprechaun Hunt. Steeped in history, legend and mythology, medieval Carlingford is known for its narrow streets and castles, while overlooking the Mountains of Mourne. Visitors can enjoy local and international cuisine in its 12 restaurants, hill walking, heritage trails and fishing.
Seydisfjordur, Iceland
 Located at the base of one of Iceland’s imposing eastern fjords, the peaceful village of Seydisfjordur, shaped by Norwegian entrepreneurs over a century ago, lies in the shelter of dramatic snow-flecked mountains – Mount Strandartindur and Mount Bjólfur. The colourful, Norwegian-style wooden houses characterise the unique village, with a population of just 750, and during the summer it has a thriving arts scene, with visiting artists and a growing community of artists-in-residence. When in Seydisfjordur, try sea fishing, cruising and bird watching in the safe hands of the local fishermen.
Soglio, Switzerland
 Soglio in the canton of Graubünden, close to the Italian border, is one of Switzerland's most romantic and traditional villages, famous for its flowers. Located on a sunny mountain terrace with amazing views, Soglio is home to a baroque rose garden and sequoia trees. The locals speak Italian but also their local Lombard dialect. Stay at <a href="http://www.palazzosalis.ch/soglio/indexi.html" target="_blank">Palazzo Salis</a>, which was nominated Swiss Historic Hotel of the Year in 1998.
Thorn, Holland
 The white village of Thorn in Holland boasts pretty cobbled streets, the beautiful Abbey Church and cute whitewashed houses. Dating back to the late 10th century, Thorn became a 'white village' when the French arrived and claimed a tax based on the size of the windows. The poor population living in large houses formerly owned by aristocrats could not afford this, so they bricked up the windows and tried to cover up their poverty by whitewashing their homes. Visit the Museum Land of Thorn, devoted to the village's history with pottery, art and jewellery exhibits.
Saint-Montan, France
 Saint-Montan in the southern Ardeche is a beautiful, medieval French village of character set on a hill with a ruined castle, narrow streets and vaulted passageways. Visitors to Saint-Montan can enjoy lovely views across the rooftops of the houses, a visit to the two small Roman-style chapels and dining in the village restaurants. Saint-Montan was named after a hermit who lived in the village for 30 years in the fifth century and you can visit the Cave of the Hermit of Saint-Montan.
Castellaro Lagusello, Italy
 Set in the region of Lombardy on a small hill overlooking a heart-shaped lake, Castellaro Lagusello is one of the most beautiful villages in Italy, known to Italians who have kept this picturesque part of the country to themselves - until now. The fortified village dates back to the 11th century and is dominated by Villa Arringhi, the former feudal castle. Castellaro Lagusello is famed for its Mantova cuisine and fine wines.
Schwarzenberg, Austria
 Picturesque Schwarzenberg in Austria's Bregenzerwald region is a chocolate box village with a riverside, mountain and ski location. The village has a modern twist and is heritage-protected for its clapboard houses. Every year the chamber music festival Schubertiade Schwarzenberg takes place with performances from various artists. Visitors come for hiking and skiing in winter, while in the summer there is horse riding, swimming and climbing to enjoy.
Vitt, Germany
 The locals call the village of Vitt the most romantic place on Rugen island. The picturesque village is characterised by its thatched-roof cottages, a tiny harbour and quaint octagonal chapel. The fishing village is best seen by bike or horse-drawn carriage as private cars are not allowed. With fewer than 50 residents and just 11 houses, Vitt is the perfect place to view true village life in Germany.
Capileira, Spain
 If you're looking for remote beauty in Spain, the whitewashed village of Capileira in Andalucía is set among mountains and forests, making it appear protected and mysterious. The village is a beautiful maze of quaint houses, ancient fountains and dramatic views. It has a special charm and the houses adapt to the rugged terrain. Inside the Pedro Antonio de Alarcón Ethnological Museum, you'll find displays devoted to the famous Spanish author.

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You looking at me? Amazing pic captures alligator's creepy red eyes Larry Lynch

The Veolia Environnement Wildlife Photographer of the Year Competition always unearths an array of magical snaps.

And Larry Lynch's pic of a sinister-looking alligator, dubbed 'Warning night light', was the winner of the 2012 best animal portrait of the year category.

One evening, while walking along the riverbed of the Myakka River State Park in Sarasota, Florida, USA, Larry came across a group of alligators. It was the dry season, and they had been gorging on fish trapped in the pools left behind as the water receded from the river.

One big alligator had clearly eaten its fill. Larry said: 'It wasn't going anywhere in a hurry. So I set my tripod and camera up about seven metres in front of him and focused on his eyes."

Just after sunset, Larry set his flash on the lowest setting to give just a tiny bit of light, enough to catch the eyeshine in the alligator's eyes. Like cats, an alligator has a tapetum lucidum at the back of each eye - a structure that reflects light back into the photoreceptor cells to make the most of low light.

The colour of eyeshine differs from species to species. In alligators, it glows red - one good way to locate alligators on a dark night. The greater the distance between its eyes, the longer the reptile, in this case, very long.

The ultimate picture created captured a majestic yet sinister image of the formidable predator.

Now in its 48th year, the Natural History Museum-based competition attracted more than 48,000 entries from 98 countries, with Paul Nicklen's 'Bubble-jetting emperors' - a spectacular image of the chaotic underwater world of emperor penguins at the edge of the Ross Sea, Antarctica - claiming the overall title of Veolia Environnement Wildlife Photographer of the Year.

Keen photographer? Entries for the 2013 competition opened on 7 January and close on 25 February 2013. Visit www.nhm.ac.uk/wildphoto for more information.

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Photography competition produces world's BEST wildlife pics

See some amazing wildlife pics from British photographers here:

Breathtaking British wildlife photographs

A common blue damselfly (Enallagma cyathigerum) photographed at Tamar Lake in Cornwall
 Did you know? The male has a blue abdomen with black spots, while the female has a yellow or bluish abdomen with dark markings.
A puffin (Fratercula arctica) swimming underwater in the Farne Islands, Northumberland
 Did you know? The best place to spot puffins is at a breeding colony. You can see them at the RSPB's Bempton Cliffs (North Yorkshire) and South Stack (Anglesey) reserves, plus the Farne Islands (Northumberland), the Isle of May (off the Fife coast) and the Shetland and Orkney Islands.
A common seal (Phoca vitulina) pup resting on a sandbank during a sandstorm in Donna Nook, Lincolnshire
 Did you know? Common seals eat around three to five kilograms of food per day and have a varied diet of sandeel, cod, sprat, octopus and squid.
A hen harrier (Circus cyaneus) adult female diving to its nest site at Glen Tanar Estate in Grampian, Scotland
 Did you know? The Orkney population of hen harrier is polygynous and males sometimes simultaneously mate to multiple females.
A basking shark (Cetorhinus maximus) feeding on plankton in the surface waters around the island of Coll, Inner Hebrides
 Did you know? The basking shark is the second biggest fish after the whale shark and is not the fastest of swimmers, travelling at around three miles per hour.
A red deer (Cervus elaphus) stag thrashing bracken during rutting season in Bushy Park, London
 Did you know? The red deer is Britain's largest land mammal and the size of a stag's antlers is related to the quality of its diet. Stags living in forests have larger antlers than those grazing on moorland.
An old male grey seal (Halichoerus grypus) with its mouth wide open showing worn teeth in Lundy Island, Bristol Channel
 Did you know? Its scientific name Halichoerus grypus means 'hooked-nosed sea pig'. Its name grey seal can be misleading as the animals vary in colour, from black to cream.
A black-tailed godwit (Limosa limosa) taking of from a tidal pool in Snettisham RSPB reserve, Norfolk
 Did you know? In summer black-tailed godwits have bright orangey-brown chests and belliers but change to a more greyish-brown in winter.
A red squirrel (Sciurus vulgaris) jumping while holding a nut in its mouth in the Cairngorms National Park, Scotland
 Did you know? It is believed the red squirrel's long tail helps keep its balance and steer when it is jumping from tree to tree, and may also keep it warm while it sleeps.

Filed under: Short breaks

Rotterdam: Ten things to do in Holland's must-discover port city Rotterdam Marketing/Marc Heeman

Retro, artsy and architecturally wonderful, Rotterdam is a city often overlooked by travellers to Holland who head straight for the museums, nightlife and canals of Amsterdam.

But the port city has plenty to offer visitors, from amazing restaurants and a buzzing night scene to unique buildings and shopping gems. Check out the best things to do in Rotterdam...

Ten things to do in Rotterdam

See Rotterdam from the water
 Get a different perspective of one of the world's largest ports by exploring the city from the water. On a <a href="http://spido.nl/en" target="_blank">Spido</a> boat tour (from €10.50 per person) you can see the impressive skyline of Rotterdam as its imposing buildings glide by. The journey offers a unique view of the harbour's shipyards and docks, sailing under the Erasmus Bridge, past the world-famous Hotel New York and close to enormous ocean liners and riverboats. For a high-speed boat ride, take a <a href="http://www.watertaxirotterdam.nl/home/uk_index.php?page=uk_home" target="_blank">Watertaxi,</a> which runs between Hotel New York, the Veerhaven and the Leuvehaven. No need for a reservation as you can just hop on the shuttle boat, which runs every 15 minutes.
Shop to discover brilliant Dutch design
 Love shopping? Then you'll be impressed by Rotterdam's offering, which includes unique items in the city's boutiques and markets and fabulous design finds. Plus the shops are open on Sundays so you don't have to plan your shopping break around its opening times! Witte de Withstraat is a street lined with avant-garde fashion boutiques and art cafes. Be sure to stop at <a href="http://www.marliesdekkers.com/" target="_blank">Marlies Dekkers</a>, where you can buy trendsetting lingerie by the world-famous designer to the stars. Lijnbaan and Beursplein is the place to find best-known shops, such as H&M, Steve Madden and The Body Shop, while Wesy Kruiskade offers exotic goods from Chinese, Arabic and Mediterranean sellers. Book lovers shouldn't miss Selexyz Donner in the centre of Rotterdam, the largest bookshop in the Netherlands, and nearby, De Bijenkorf is the Selfridge's of the Netherlands, with high-end Dutch and international brands for you to browse.
Explore the city by bike
 Holland is cycle heaven and the best way to discover Rotterdam is by bike. With an extensive network of cycle paths, bicycle stairways and plenty to see, cycling is a must. Cycle along the Erasmus Bridge, through the city parks and take in the harbour views by bike. To explore Rotterdam in a fun and active way, go on a guided tour with <a href="http://www.rotterdambycycle.nl/" target="_blank">Rotterdam ByCycle</a>, which offers different themes, such as the City Architecture Tour, the Big City Tour and the Inner City Tour.
Discover retro Rotterdam at the Sonneveld House Museum
 Rotterdam has a diverse range of museums, from Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen with its art dating back to the Early Middle Ages to the Nederlands Fotomuseum providing an insight into all aspects of photography. To discover the city's retro style, visit the <a href="http://en.nai.nl/museum/house_museum" target="_blank">Sonneveld House Museum</a>, one of the best-preserved examples of pre-war Dutch functionalism. The house, with its interesting design and interiors, allows you to get a sense of what it was like to live in a hypermodern home in 1933.
Be wowed by the spectacular Hotel New York
 An attraction in itself, the impressive <a href="http://www.hotelnewyork.nl/en/home" target="_blank">Hotel New York</a> is much more than a luxury hotel. The building was once the headquarters of the Holland America Line, built in 1901 by architects J. Muller, Droogleever Fortuin and C.B. van der Tak in an Art Nouveau style. Today, with its tall towers and spinning weather clock, it is one of Rotterdam's most famous landmarks and a hangout for the city's residents. Feast on delectable seafood in the Cafe-Restaurant, relax on the terrace, sleep in the stunning hotel and shop for unique souvenirs at the Kiosk.
Eat with the locals at Bazar
 With colourful tables, beautiful lamps, a friendly, relaxed atmosphere and fantastic Middle Eastern and North African food, we can see why the locals and tourists flock to this exotic restaurant and cafe. <a href="http://bazarrotterdam.com/" target="_blank">Bazar</a> is where you can eat reasonably-priced food, such as hearty couscous, mixed grill and lamb stew. In the bar on the ground floor, you can sip fresh mint tea or a beer, and located above the restaurant is Hotel Bazar, an unusual and affordable hotel with just 27 rooms decorated in oriental, African and South American style.
Check out Pannekoekstraat, the Soho of Rotterdam
 Explore Rotterdam's Bohemian side at Pannekoekstraat (Pancake Street). The area attracts arty types to its vintage fashion, antique and design boutiques. <a href="http://www.verycherry.nl/" target="_blank">Very Cherry</a> is a cheerful, retro apparel shop with fabulous prints from the 1960s and 1970s. Stop at <a href="http://www.depotrotterdam.nl/" target="_blank">Depot Rotterdam</a> if you love contemporary furniture and interiors and relax with a beer at Maagd van Holland or a coffee at the trendy Urban Espresso Bar. For a bite to eat, stop at Pierre, a great little French brasserie with an extensive menu.
Spend the night in a retro ship
 If you're looking for somewhere unique to sleep, you should check in to the legendary <a href="http://www.ssrotterdam.nl/uk/" target="_blank">SS Rotterdam</a>. The ship-come-hotel was once home to the international jet-set of the 1950s and still retains its old-world glamour and charm. Each of the 576 original cabins has been restyled into 254 rooms and is designed in the style of the 1950s. The restaurants are elegant and authentic, and the Ocean Bar is the ultimate spot to relax with a drink. Don't miss a Seabreeze Deluxe Tour to take a peek behind the boat deck. You'll visit the bow and the high bridge of the ship and take a tour of the captain's cabin, the radio room and behind the scenes of the grand cruise ship. Standard double rooms from €150 per night.
Sip on innovative cocktails at Blender
 Stylish cocktail bar <a href="http://www.blenderrotterdam.nl/" target="_blank">Blender</a> resembles a New York City night spot and could be straight out of Sex and the City with its industrial-style interiors, sleek bar and cool lighting. The restaurant, bar and nightclub has an extensive cocktail menu. Try the Pornstar Martini, a wonderful mix of fresh passion fruit, vanilla vodka and Prosecco - it's one of the most popular cocktails in Rotterdam. If you're travelling with friends, Blender also offers cocktail mixing workshops, so you can leave Rotterdam with a few cocktail recipes of your own!
Be inspired by Rotterdam's quirky architecture
 One of Rotterdam's biggest attractions is its unique and magnificent architecture. Take a stroll and you'll be impressed by the classic buildings, which include the unusual cube houses designed by Piet Blom, who modelled the complex on a forest. At 45 metres high, Het Witte Huis was the first Dutch 'skyscraper' and is an important symbol of Rotterdam's drive for innovation. Laurenskerk is a church that was built between 1449 and 1525 and is the only surviving late-Gothic building from medieval Rotterdam. Be sure to look out for the De Hef, Holland's most spectacular lifting bridge, which represents the country's engineering skills. Modern structures around the city include the 100-metre observation tower Euromast and the Erasmus Bridge, which spans the Maas River linking northern and southern Rotterdam.

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Driving in an Italian city is not one of the most relaxing things to do. Narrow streets, traffic jams and impatient drivers are just a few of the things that might put you off. And, as this driver discovered, trying to do a U-turn can cause a right old drama.

As he tries - and fails - to execute the manoevre, he gets rather stuck, getting lots of unwelcome attention from police, passers by and even a church procession...

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