There are several different factors that attract people to this area of the UK, including the golden sandy beaches, friendly people, and picturesque scenery. Whether you want to spend long, lazy days on the beach, get wet and wild in the water, or explore the local coastal paths there is plenty for everyone to see and do in the area.

Holiday cottages offer a different style of holiday, and allow you to have somewhere to stay, without the fuss of a hotel or B&B. You can easily book the cottages online through an excellent site, and Northumbrian-cottages.info offer holiday cottages in Seahouses that are appealing. The privately owned cottages all offer something different ensuring that you experience a charming, unique holiday.

Whether you are a romantic couple searching for peace and quiet, or a family wanting action and adventure, there are cottages to suit your needs and budget. You may want to visit for a short weekend break to recharge your batteries, or a longer holiday to explore the whole area. Regardless of why you choose to visit Northumbria, you will return time and time again.

Whilst in Seahouses you may want to venture over to the Farne Islands by local boat, which provides an excellent view of the coast.  These islands are incredible and were once the pilgrimage route for monks; however, today is perfect for nature lovers. Sea birds flock to the islands, and between April and August, there are over 100,000 birds on this small rocky group of islands.

Before booking your cottage, you may be concerned that it could be basic, and not equipped enough for you and your needs. However, you will be pleasantly surprised that Northumbrian-cottages.info offer holiday cottages in Seahouses are modern and fully equipped. The owners take immense pride in their cottages, and some will stock the cupboards and fridges for your arrival.

You will need to consider the size of cottage that you want to book, which will often depend on the numbers which are travelling. Small chocolate box cottages are available for couples; however, larger cottages will need to be used to accommodate large groups and families. There are old cottages to choose, or you may prefer to select a converted barn.

Regardless of your needs, budget and taste, you will love spending time in the UK, avoiding the stress of travelling, and organising a holiday to a new destination. Taking the time to search Northumbrian-cottages.info offer holiday cottages in Seahouses, will ensure that you book the perfect cottage for your holiday.

The UK is like a large tourist attraction, those that get it right and plan their holidays carefully will be able to have a whale of a time. Those that get it wrong and don’t plan ahead will find themselves wandering around London and thinking that British life is spending money, paying for taxis, shopping and visiting museums. This article covers a few other places that you can go and see when you are in the UK other than London.

Manchester- The city of Manchester is a great place to visit the further north you get the cheaper the chips get! It’s true; Manchester is a lot cheaper than London, and it is also a lovely option aside from the capital. There are indoor shopping centres, swimming pools gyms, dry ski slopes, ice skating and skating rinks, you name it Manchester has it.

Blackpool- As the old song says ‘oh, I do like to be beside the seaside’ and if this applies to you, then head on to Blackpool. The sea is not blue and crystal clear; the weather is not perfect, but they have tram rides, donkeys, fish and chips, piers and arcades galore- and a pleasure beach where you can let loose and ride away until your heart’s content. Blackpool is a lovely seaside place to visit, and you will have fantastic time touring around. If you are lucky to go there in the winter, you will also be able to bear witness to the Blackpool lights along the seafront.

Chester- If you like zoos and shopping in designer outlets with discounts, then Chester is the place to go. You can visit the Sea life centre; you can go to see the zoo-, and you can make a stop at Cheshire Oaks the designer outlet that has many UK stores at discounted prices.

These are just three alternatives to visit other than London in the UK; you will be spoilt for choice. It is a place that offers countless activities and things to see and do. Of course you cannot forget about the many single attractions in the UK to see, one of the most popular activities for visitors is to take one of the many the many London to Stonehenge Tours available,  these trips can also including seeing other great attractions such as Windsor Castle and the Roman Baths. So you can visit great cities, and great attractions all outside of London.

Piemonte Region

In northwest Italy the Piemonte Region is where the 2006 Winter Olympics were hosted. If you’ve ever dreamed of skiing the Olympic runs, Piemonte Region is the place to go. The Piemonte Region boasts 1,300 kilometers of well groomed runs and 53 ski resorts. In this region a large variety of Winter sports are offered including para-skiing, dog sled rides, helicopter skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, ice climbing and much more. The Piemonte Region offers a quiet and relaxed area for all levels of skiers.

Dolomiti Superski

The Dolomiti Superski area provides a total of 668 sun-kissed runs for snowboarders and skiers. Dolomiti offers premium ski runs for every level, 72 black runs, 274 red runs, 306 blue runs and 16 green runs. Dolomiti is a mecca for snowboarders and has a top rated Snow Park. There is snow making capabilities on 90% of the slopes in the Dolomiti Superski area, assuring a Winter wonderland of activities from November to April. Only two hours drive from Dolomiti Superski are three airports, making it a great destination for short holidays or ski weekends.

Abruzzon
If you’re looking to ski the heart of Italy the Abruzzon Region is the perfect target. Along with offering a world-class unspoiled skiing venue it has breathtaking scenery, Roman ruins, monasteries, medieval castles, charming villages and snowfall that rivals the Alpine ski areas. This region provides 29 lifts and two cable cars to access the 65 runs. Being in the poorer section of Italy makes Abruzzon an excellent bargain for tourists. Since a large portion of the Abruzzon Region is designated regional or national parkland, the best way to tour the area is by car.

Bruges

The ancient medieval city of Bruges in Belgium plays host to one of the most beautiful of these markets. Travelling by rail to Bruges is easy, just step aboard the train at St Pancras International and remain seated until you disembark in Bruges. The landscape of northern France and southern Belgium can appear quite flat and gloomy, so when you reach Bruges the beauty of this superb city will be a welcome sight. Bruges is famous for its many canals as well as its stunning architecture, and the Christmas market is situated in the city’s beautiful old town square. As well as buying gifts from one of the many stalls, why not try out a spot of ice-skating on the outdoor skating rink that is set up in the square?

Lille

This French city used to be known for its commerce and industry but anyone taking railway holidays who wish to explore this part of Europe have increasingly been introduced to the additional charms of the region. Lille has many fine buildings, as well as charming old lanes and narrow winding streets. Some of the specialist shops are well worth a visit. The Christmas market consists of 83 chalets, each housing a separate selection of goodies to tempt the shopper. The consumer experience continues throughout the city as there is an annual competition involving all the decorations and window displays from the city’s 3,900 stores.

Heidelberg

This majestic and historical city set in the heart of Germany is easy to reach from the UK. You can simply board the Eurostar service at St Pancras before taking the train to Cologne where you will be able to change for a connecting train to Heidelberg. You could even stop off at some of the other traditional Christmas markets that are scattered across the Rhine Valley. Heidelberg is internationally renowned for its beautiful town squares, its culture and its stunning Baroque architecture. The market itself is situated in the grounds of Heidelberg Castle.

Cologne

En route to Heidelberg, you may well want to visit Cologne’s Christmas market. You will be enticed with warm wine (Gluhwein) and beautifully handcrafted goods once you arrive. German Christmas decorations have a reputation for being spectacular and seasonal, hardly surprising given that the tradition of the domestic Christmas tree comes from this country.

Frankfurt

On the way back to the UK and travelling by train towards the River Maine, those still in need of some Christmas cheer might want to visit the Frankfurt Christmas market. The market is one of the largest in Germany and is situated against the magnificent backdrop of the City’s 600-year-old Town Hall. You will be serenaded by a traditional German brass band and will also be able to try some heated apple wine as well as numerous finely crafted sweet pastries and other local delicacies.

Decide whether or not travelling is for you

This might seem like a silly way to start, but travel can often be taken for granted as a ‘must-do’ for your gap year. The term ‘gap year’ even implies travel as inherent in the definition, but don’t take this as a given. Although travelling can be an incredibly enlightening and memorable experience, it’s not for everyone. Asking yourself simple questions like whether or not you get homesick easily or whether you can actually afford it, and giving some honest answers, can open your eyes to what you actually want to do.

Research the history of any countries you plan on visiting

Before getting obsessed with a particular destination, check your facts on 20th century history. Research into the history of countries like South Africa, Japan and even the United States can have drastic effects on the way you plan your trip, especially in regard to any cultural differences that may arise, which can be apprehended. And, most importantly, you might come across some information that will stop you from going altogether. Don’t say I didn’t warn you.

Plan money with family

Despite any confidence you may have with money, it’s always worth turning to your parents or someone else in your family that is much more financially experienced than yourself. Oftentimes you may find that your original budget may get doubled or even tripled, but running through the monetary details with someone you trust early on can be the difference between a well-budgeted trip, and a financial disaster.

Think of ways to combine journeys with friends

If you’re travelling within the same period of time as a lot of other people your age, it might be worth calling around to find out who else is on the move to arrange for some flights together, or perhaps to meet up while abroad. You can plan a whole route by linking up with friends or friends of friends, to make sure your expedition is a lonesome one. It’s always great to share the memories, even if its with someone you don’t know that well. Ultimately, the best thing you can gain from a gap year is a new friendship.

After leaving University and putting his gap year long behind him, David Ingram joined the digital marketing team at Hunters Estate Agent York. He loves his work, but still has great memories of the year out he spent down in Marylebone.

Ibiza

Ibiza and its Many Attractions

Ibiza is a beautiful place where anyone will be able to have a great time. It is a perfect vacation spot for family and friends. The Island of Ibiza will have everything from excellent outdoor activities to the nightlife entertainment. Along with all of these amazing attractions, the people who live on the island of Ibiza are also friendly and polite, which will make for an even better vacation stay you can get great cheap holidays to Spainso get over to this fantastic Island thats not just for raving.

Museum of Archaeology

Museum of Archaeology – Ibiza Old Town

The Museum of Archaeology is one of the many breathtaking tourist attractions that the island of Ibiza has to offer. It offers a little culture and history about the island along with many other interesting facts. Some of the cultural exhibitions can range from the island’s prehistory to the Christian re-conquest. It will cover about 3,000 years in history, which will be divided into six themes. This museum surely offers a great insight on the island’s magnificent story.

Formentera Island and Outdoor Activities 

Formentera is one of the many islands that make up Ibiza and is known for many amazing outdoor activities. Even by just visiting Formentera, you are able to take in the beautiful sights and sounds of the island. However, if you want to experience something a little more adventurous, you can do that as well. Take a day to enjoy cycling, snorkeling, sailing and other great activities. Formentera surely has everything that an outdoor enthusiast could ever want.

The Amnesia Club of Ibiza

Ammenisa House – Rave All Night – Classic Ibiza Vibe

If you are looking for a night out while you are in Ibiza, then the Amnesia club is the perfect place for you and your friends. You can start the night off by having a couple of their delicious drinks. The Amnesia club has received awards for their excellent choice in music, which keeps the club bumping until it’s time to close the doors. They will offer all of their services at affordable prices that are sure to fit anyone’s budget. Their friendly and courteous staff will also accentuate your trip to the Amnesia club beautifully. The overall atmosphere will be a great one, and you are certain to go back whenever you are in Ibiza again.

Vibrant Spain

Spain – Great Holiday Sunshine Destination

Spain is a very proud country, and celebrates its history and customs in style. Spain is known for its seasonal hot weather, fantastic clean and well-maintained beaches, and always guaranteeing a superb night on the town. From karaoke to serious clubbing, from local cuisine to International restaurants, Spain and its eclectic mix of cultures within its many great cities will satisfy all tastes and styles. Spain is very easy to get over to with many online tour operators such as Thomson offering great rate flights and holiday packages.

You may fancy a small traditional village with fine local cuisine, or you may want somewhere like Barcelona or Madrid for designer shopping, but whatever you want from a holiday you’ll find in Spain. If you want something a little different, try their world famous tomato fight, or maybe run from loose bulls and hit them with rolled up newspapers; like I said, Spain has it all.

Passionate Paris

Paris, the City of Light, is one of the world’s premier travel destinations. Renowned for its rich architecture, storied history and world-class dining and shopping, this city has something for everyone.

The Eiffel Tower, the city’s most iconic landmark, is a must-see destination and boasts magnificent views of the city from its observation decks. Another must-see attraction is the Arc de Triomphe, one of the world’s largest and grandest triumphal arches. The historic Notre Dame Cathedral is known for its stunning Gothic architecture and fascinating history. No trip to Paris is complete without visiting its world-class museums such as the Louvre, the Rodin Museum, the Picasso Museum, Centre Georges Pompidou, the Cluny and many others. Other activities and attractions in Paris include cruising along the River Seine, exploring the Latin Quarter and visiting historic landmarks like Sacre Coeur and Opera Garnier.

The Heart of Britain London

Exuding majesty, London is like no other place on Earth. Its royal palaces, medieval fortresses and world-renowned, museums have to be seen to be believed.

The city’s top attractions include the iconic Big Ben and the Palace of Westminster as well as the London Eye, an observation wheel that offers stunning views of the cityscape. The Tower of London offers a fascinating look into the city’s medieval history and royal heritage while the neighboring Tower Bridge is one of the city’s most celebrated landmarks as well. London also boasts astounding museums and cultural institutions worth visiting such as the British Museum, the National Gallery, Tate Modern and many others. While in London, also be sure to visit world-famous landmarks such as Westminster Abbey, Trafalgar Square, Buckingham palace and the magnificent St. Paul’s Cathedral.

Expansive Australia

Known for its rugged landscapes, cosmopolitan cities and exotic flora and fauna, Australia is the perfect place for a memorable trip overseas. Sydney and Melbourne, its premier cities, offer world-class attractions such as the Sydney Opera House Darling Harbour and the Royal Botanic Gardens in Sydney and Melbourne’s rich architecture and famed museums. Outside of its main cities, travellers will find the rugged Outback region, gorgeous beaches and the unspoiled landscapes of Tasmania.

The capitol city boasts some of the best grounds in the world, and provides some of the top football teams in the premier league. You may support a certain team, and want to enjoy their grounds, however, there are plenty more on offer. There are six premier league teams within the city, all offering amazing facilities, and fantastic football grounds.

Premier league football is considered to be incredible, and regardless of who you support, you can enjoy a match whilst in the city. At the end of the season one of these teams will be crowned Champions of England, therefore, being part of one of these matches is amazing. Planning ahead is vital, as tickets for big games are often sold quickly.

Organising your trip to London around a match can be the perfect way to experience several different elements of the city. You will be amazed at how much the city comes to life, and every aspect of the sporting world will be in attendance. Newspapers, TV companies and Ladbrokes Sports all have an interest in the big games, and make huge revenues from these events.

If you have never been to a premier league football match, you may question why everyone makes such a huge fuss over a game. However, once you have experienced a match, you will understand how passionate and emotional the sport of football has become. Often the actual game of football is only mediocre; however, the fans make up for any disappointment.

The incredible sense of support and community that the fans portray is amazing, and will ensure that you have a fantastic time. Every single person in the ground will feel part of the event, and the noise can be extremely loud. If you have never been to a football ground before, you will not be able to imagine what it is like inside.

The pitch is far larger than it looks on TV, and you will discover a far better perspective being in the grounds. The respect for the players is often multiplied when people see how far they have to run during every game. Many hardcore fans consider the best position to be directly behind the goal, which is the prime location to see the striker shooting at the goal.

The build up before the game is amazing, and you will hear singing, laughing, chanting and people having fun. Many players consider this to be a crucial part of the game, encouraging them to play better and perform at their best. Being part of this build up is fantastic, and will ensure that you have a brilliant time at the match.

Many of the people that are in the grounds will be experts of the game, and will love explaining the different rules to you. They will want to ensure that other supporters, the players and the manager can hear their opinion.  If you are lucky enough to be in London on a Saturday, and your favourite team are playing at home, it can be the perfect end to your visit.

One key place to visit is Cheshire’s Peak District, which is a breathtaking place of natural beauty. Rolling hills and open plains make up this area of almost 100 square miles, which includes the Peak District National Park. There are numerous points of historical interest in the area, such as the birthplace of iconic novelist Elizabeth Gaskell and a number of lovely homes and gardens. Tourists are encouraged to join the Gritstone Trail, which is 35 miles long and takes you on the most beautiful route across the district. It is a rewarding challenge for walkers, and the views that it provides of the Peak District are absolutely stunning. Plenty of restaurants, shops and galleries can be found in Cheshire’s Peak District, meaning that whatever the weather the area can be visited and enjoyed.

Getting to Cheshire is as simple and easy as never before, thanks to the England being a popular tourist destination, you are guaranteed to find cheap flights to London on fly.co.uk quite easily. Cheshire is not all countryside, either. Its main city of Chester is a busy, vibrant metropolis which is rich in culture and history. The Roman influence on the city, which was founded by them in AD79, is still present today. The city walls are still intact, and the 3km walk along them is a brilliant way for visitors to begin exploring. Chester castle, overlooking the beautiful River Dee, is also a must-see. It is a mixture of medieval and neoclassical architecture, and also contains a military museum. Chester is also excellent for shopping, with the Grosvenor Shopping Centre being home to a number of high street shops and cafes. The city also has plenty of options for contemporary dining experiences as well as a great selection of pubs and bars.

There are also great family days out to be found in Cheshire. Chester Zoo is a key tourist attraction of the North West. Over 400 species of animals live at the zoo, over half of which are listed as endangered. These include the critically endangered Sumatran tiger, rare Asian elephants, the Sumatran orangutan and six different species of endangered bears. The zoo offers visitors a rare chance to see these species’, and works hard towards the preservation and protection of them.  Talks and animal feedings take place throughout the day so that the whole family shall enjoy a fun and educational day out. Gullivers World Theme Park in Warrington is also a must-visit for families. The park is designed for under-13s and has a huge selection of rides, shows and activities to keep children entertained all day long. There is even a newly-built hotel on-site which is the perfect reason to spend an extra day in the park!

Families, couples and groups of friends will all find that Cheshire has plenty of places to visit and things to do. City shopping, countryside walks, days out with the kids, education trips… the county offers all of these and so much more.