Valentine’s Vacation: The Most Romantic Things to Do in Cambridge On Valentine’s Day

It may seem a little premature to be planning Valentine’s Day, but many popular destinations get booked up early so it’s worth putting some thought into how you would like to spoil your loved one. With its historical buildings, peaceful river and cobbled streets, Cambridge is a perfect choice for a romantic getaway and there will be lots of hotel deals in Cambridge for this coming Valentine’s Day.

King’s Cross

 

From punting along the river, to wandering the back streets and window shopping in the local boutiques, there are lots of romantic things to do in the city. Why not surprise your partner by meeting at King’s Cross and then catching a train to your mystery destination? Less than an hour’s train ride from London, Cambridge offers a unique destination which is close enough that you can make the most of your city break and not spend it sitting in traffic jams! There are many hotels in Cambridge to choose from, depending on your preference and budget.

King’s College 

 

A walk through the city centre and along the Backs will take you past the city’s iconic landmark, King’s College which was founded by Henry VI in 1441. The Chapel dominates the skyline and the interior is just as breath taking. As Valentine’s Day falls within the school term, it’s worth popping along to Evensong to hear the famous King’s College Choir’s melodic voices fill the air with song.

River Cam 

 

The river Cam draws visitors from all over the world, either to wander the riverbanks, enjoy a picnic while watching the rowers drift past or to take to the water themselves on a chauffeur-guided punt. Companies such as Scudamore’s offer punt tours and will even go so far as to provide romantic treats, like strawberries and champagne on request. If you’re feeling brave, then you can hire a punt and head out on your own, just remember that’s it’s not as easy as it looks!

Botanic Gardens

The Tamburlaine Hotel offers luxury accommodation in college-inspired rooms and is situated close to the railway station, making it particularly convenient for those travelling up by train. It is also a short walk from the Cambridge University Botanic Gardens where you can wander along tree-lined paths, through giant Redwoods and stopping for a romantic moment in a quiet corner of the gardens.

The Tamburlaine is just around the corner from the gardens, so it makes for a lovely afternoon walk, before returning to the hotel for afternoon tea in the refined opulence of the Garden Room. Indulge yourselves with the Digby Sparkling Afternoon Tea – a selection of finger sandwiches, traditional scones with jam and cream, and a glass of English sparkling wine to complete the experience.

For dinner, you can choose between dining in house or taking a 30-minutes stroll to the acclaimed Midsummer House with its 10-course tasting menu and vintage wines. In-house dining options might not stretch to 10 courses, but local, seasonal dishes are cooked to perfection and severed in an elegant dining room.

Cambridge is a fabulous destination for a romantic break at any time of the year, but if you want to make your loved one feel really appreciated, book a spot now for Valentine’s Day and spend the next few months dreaming up ways to make it really special.

10 awesome experiences in and around Dublin

Dublin is a fascinating capital, it is a small city that treasures many awesome experiences. Whether you want to discover Ireland’s beautiful landscapes or immerse yourself into the vibrant city, Dublin is a must-go destination on your trip to Ireland. In order to convince you, if its needed…here a list of ten amazing experiences in and around Dublin.

The Cliffs of Moher

The famous Cliffs of Moher are actually only few hours away from Dublin and many bus companies offer day-trip to visit this breath-taking sight. Did you know this place has been used for a scene in Harry Potter movie? In top of that, the visitor centre highlights the cliff wildlife with great exhibitions.

Explore the city by foot

There are many ways to explore Dublin, from bus tours to guided tours to public transport. Why not simply go for a wander around the city? In addition to pubs…you will find many parks, galleries, street arts and historical buildings. Walking around the different quarters is walking thought different time on Dublin history. And if you get lost, you can count on the legendary kindness of Irish people, they will be to help you out.

Visit a Castle

The county of Ireland has over 30,000 castles and ruins. There are couple of Castles you can visit around Dublin Bay such as Malahide Castle or Dalkey Castle. If you prefer to stay in the town centre, Dublin castle allows for a great visit. You will discover the history behind it and during a guided visit you will explore the underground, where pieces of the old Viking settlement have been preserved.

Visit Portmarnock beach

A wonderful spot to take the fresh Irish breeze is Portmarnock beach. Located 20 minutes northeast of Dublin, a nice walk on this natural sight will give you stunning views of Lambay Island and Ireland’s Eye.

Take in an Irish festival

There’s not a month without a festival in Dublin, whether you fancy culture or parade with colourful celebrations Dublin has something for everyone. Make sure you are booking your accommodation well in advance because the capital can be packed during these periods. You also want to be in the heart of all the happening, we advise you to have a look at The Alexander hotel for a central location.

Tour the Guinness storehouse

One of the Ireland’s biggest attraction is located in the city centre and is about a famous beer…The Guinness Storehouse. An interactive tour will explain you the process behind this beverage and at the end of your tour, up the seven floors, you will enjoy 360 views of the city!

Go to st. Patrick's cathedral

The national Church of Ireland will amaze you by its beauty. It part of the few buildings remaining from medieval time. It is also world famous for its choir. You can go for a guided tour or use the free app for a self-guided tour.  

Six Things to Do in And Around Dublin This Halloween

Ireland is the perfect place to celebrate Halloween because of its Celtic origins. If you are coming to Dublin during this period here are some events that might interest you. Don’t be afraid and enjoy a memorable Halloween!  

Causey Farm, Co Meath
 

Located near Navan, this farm is a perfect site for a Halloween excursion; the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, which some people regard as the original Halloween celebration, is just a few miles away. For more thrills try Farmaphobia (October 27-November 1) with its different activities, squirm in the Field of Screams and try to get out of the monster-filled mazes, or try your luck in the Three-minute Escape Rooms.

The young ones can have fun too because Causey Farm also runs Pooka Spooka a fun event with broomstick rides, magic shows, pumpkin-carving…

Bram Stoker Festival
 

This festival, named after the famous gothic writer, is the city’s biggest Halloween event (October 28-31). It will be four days of theatre, spectacle, visual arts and music during which the city will take on a particularly scary vibe. There are a lot of different events all around Dublin, if you are looking for a thrill you will not be disappointed. Be sure not to miss the Macnas procession on Henry Street and Moore Street it is really worth it. If you are looking for a nice place to stay go to the O’Callaghan Davenport hotel next to Merrion Square.

The Horror Expo Ireland
 

This expo (October 30) will ravish the horror fans who fancy something different. The surroundings of the Freemasons’ Grand Lodge in Dublin will host this event dedicated to the dark and macabre. There will also be a Q&A session with the Paranormal Researchers of Ireland along with technicians, demonologists and investigators.

The Halloween train
 

Down in Carlow, meanwhile, travel to Rathwood near Tullow, where a Halloween train takes children on a magical journey to meet all kind of forest faeries and goblins (October 15-31). You could sneak around the Pooka’s House and ask for a pumpkin and carve it with the help of good witches.

Dublin Zoo
 

The zoo is one of the best attractions in the city, and it’s easy to see why. This Halloween kids are going to love the Spooktacular Boo (October 28 and 31). The Kaziranga Forest Trail will become a festival pumpkin patch, there will also be scary arts and crafts in the Meerkat Restaurant as well as Halloween-themed keeper talks.

Wicklow’s Historic Gaol
 

Situated at Kilmantin Hill the gaol has long been famous for its ghoulish shows and this year they want to do something special with a number of paranormal investigation nights (October 25-November 1). The Halloween Night Tour with character actors will get you in the frightening mood.

Some Tips For American Tourists For A Budget Tour In London

London is certainly one of the top desirable places for vacations and travelling. Everything about the magnificent city is so charming that you cannot help but marvel at the beauty and elegance of it. There is something in the air of London that attracts thousands of tourists to come and visit this marvellous city. This is probably why London is considered to be one of the most visited places all over the world. Come for a visit here and you definitely wouldn’t want to leave. 

However, the first thing you need to do while you are in the city is to find a suitable place of accommodation for yourself. Well, fortunately, good accommodation is not very difficult to find in London. Located in different parts all around the city, the London Executive Rooms, are some of the finest one in count. Especially the budget hotels near Piccadilly are the best for providing a comfortable stay in London. 

The hotels are located pretty close to the tube stations so that they can provide amazing transport links to their visitors, and hence, are a perfect meeting spot for tourists. One such example that comes to mind is the Premiere Club Rewards.

With stylishly decorated rooms and spas, amazing hi-tech facilities like complimentary Wi-Fi and LCD TV, conference rooms for business meetings, bars and restaurants to provide the comfort of dining and much more such amazing feature. The hotel certainly tops the list as one of the best hotels in London City. Come and stay here at this hotels and enjoy the perfect living environment. The results we’re sure will be pleasant for you.

Some Tips For American Tourists

London is certainly a beautiful place to visit. One trip to the place and you will be impressed with the looks and charm of the city. No wonder the place is a huge favourite for people and tourists. Well, for Americans, London can be a bit overwhelming. Of course with the different traditions and the language. And London can be expensive too. So here are some of the money saving tips that the American tourists can look in to save some money.

Use Credit Cards and Vouchers When You Dine: 

Let’s face the fact, saving money in London is certainly not an easy task. Especially with the increasing number of hotels and restaurants in the city. It is only natural that people will have to spend money on the restaurants while eating. A great tip for saving money here, would be to use credit cards instead of paying cash as no fees associated with using a credit card. Also, you can make use of the discount vouchers that you get. 

Get Around On A Bike: 

London has a long list of attractions and to reach there is a very difficult task. While most people prefer the Tube and the taxis, one of the best ways to save money would be to go on bikes that can be rented from different bike rental shops around the city. Not only are you able to witness the marvellous beauty of the city in a better way but you also get some exercise from it.

Buy An Oyster Card: 

As you all know there is a certain fee associated when you use ATMs in England for money transactions. This can be a kick to your budget. However, a solution to this is also provided. Why not use the Visitor’s Oyster Card when you are in London. All you have to do is put some credit in the card and you are all set. There is a daily limit so you don’t have to worry about money wastage. There are several restaurants and theatre houses that offer discounts in Oyster Card payment.

Watch Your Back Pockets And Backpacks: 

Although London is pretty modern and civilized city, there are different petty crimes that keep on happening in the corners city. These things happen to the people who are not careful enough about their luggage and stuff. It is essential that you keep an eye on such cases otherwise you might get swindled off your belongings. Special care must be taken during festivals and street shows.

Buy Alcohol A Drink At Your Room: 

While we all like to visit the pars and pubs of the city, it is not a surprising fact that these bars are rather expensive for their drinks and other stuff. Well, to save some money, you could always buy your alcohol from the stores and drink at your home. An added plus point is that you are saved from the constant pushing and shoving around in bars.

Buy Theatre Tickets In Advance or Last Minute: 

The theatre shows in London are one of the major highlights of the city. And generally these shows are so busy that getting the tickets for a cheap price is not an easy task. For that it is necessary that you make an advance booking so that you can get cheap tickets. Some houses even offer discounts when tickets are booked in advance. You could always opt for last minute bookings to as the prices are lowered then.

Shop in the Markets, Not Malls: 

Who doesn’t like to visit the malls in London? They are beautiful, comfortable and luxuries. But one thing that you are probably forgetting, they are expensive too. Shopping in the markets of London will surely save you a lot of money. Not only do you get the same collection of stuff for a less price but you also get to experience the traditional way of shopping in London.

Don’t Feel Pressurized To Donate To Street Artists: 

The people of London are generally very friendly. However, some street performers of the city get pretty fierce when it comes to collecting the money for their performances. You always have to keep in mind that you are not obligated to donate to these artists. In that way you can save a lot of money.

London City is undoubtedly expensive. But with these money saving tips you will surely have a great time in the city under a reasonable budget. 

Complete Guide to Dublin’s Writers Museum

Dublin is a UNESCO City of Literature, it is home to numerous literature landmarks, and a place where three winners of the Nobel Prize for Literature were born: George Bernard Shaw, Samuel Beckett and W.B. Yeats. Dublin has also inspired Irish authors and lead to some masterpiece such as Ulysses or Dracula. In 1991 Dublin Tourism created a place to be dedicated to the Irish literature: Dublin Writers Museum.

The museum is located in the centre of Dublin, 18 Parnell Square next to the Abbey Presbyterian Church in a converted a Georgian mansion. Once you step inside you start a journey though Irish literature. Focus is made on famous writers with James Joyce, Oscar Wilde and Samuel Beckett. You will find portraits and unique artefacts.  There is also a copy of the Book of Kells displayed, even if this manual hasn’t been written in Ireland it remains an important medieval manuscript.

But not only the big figures are highlighted in this museum, you will learn about some obscure writers of Dublin. The audio guide is very good to go back in time and explore Dublin’s literature history from the beginning to modern time. In the memorabilia section, you will discover letters, handwritten postcards and even first editions. For example, the first edition of Patrick Kavanagh’s poem The Great Hunger written by his own hand. The pricey piano of James Joyce is also present with Patrick Kavanah’s death mask. It is easy to say that you can spend the entire day looking at all those curiosities.

On the upper floors the Writers Gallery displays portraits and exhibitions. The room is stunning, paintings on the doors represent the month of the year are worth the visit. In another large room, you will discover the children’s literature. 

The bookshop at the back of the building sells all the seminal works of Irish literature and some nice souvenir.

The Dublin Writers Museum is definitively worth the visit. It is a fascinating little museum where you will explore the 300 years of Dublin’s literary history. 

Practical information:

Tours available in French, German, Italian, Spanish and Dutch
Opening Times:
January-December inclusive:
Monday-Saturday: 10am-5pm
Last admission 4.15pm
Sunday and Public Holidays: 11am-5pm
Address: Dublin Writer’s Museum, 18 Parnell Square, Dublin 1, Ireland

For information on great places to stay, plan your stay at O Callaghan hotels Dublin, contact Alexanderhotel.ie now.

Exploring London in 24 Hours

London is a storehouse of attractions, cultural centres, and historic landmarks, restaurants along with pubs, bars and nightclubs that provide an exotic nightlife scenario. The sheer magnitude of its offerings is apparent from the fact that the city is home to more than 200 museums and 857 galleries. It is also full of parks and gardens that provide a quiet retreat and escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. As such, it is well nigh impossible to scratch even the surface of its offerings in 24 hours. However, given below are the major highlights that you can see during your whirlwind tour of this great city.

Start Early: Since you have limited time, it is best to rise early, take a quick walk and trigger your appetite so that you get the energy for a long and arduous day ahead of you. It is best to reach Westminster from your hotel as it is home to some of the most magnificent landmarks such as the beautiful Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament and St Paul’s Cathedral. Even from the pavement, you will; be able to gaze at and admire these magnificent structures. You will also be able to see London Eye which is on the other side of the River Thames. You can then walk across Westminster Bridge and move towards the chic and trendy Southbank area.

Southbank: In Southbank, you will have plenty of choice for seeing the attractions as it is home to the London Dungeon, Sea Life Aquarium and Shrek’s Adventure while the London Eye is also invitingly there. You must take a ride on this giant Ferris wheel as it will provide panoramic views across the city which on a clear day can extend up to 20 miles. Afterwards, you can wander through Jubilee Gardens that runs alongside the River Thames. You can then cross over the Jubilee Bridge and go towards Embankment Pier and finally heading towards Northumberland Avenue, you will reach the epicentre of action at the famous Trafalgar Square.

Take an Afternoon Stroll Down the Mall: You can then walk along the Strand and then go towards The Mall and walk on this seemingly never-ending road that has St James’s Park and 10 Downing Street on one side and Green Park and Piccadilly on the other. You will then reach the majestic Buckingham Palace and if you reach there by 11:30am, you would be able to see the Changing of the Guard ceremony. You can also admire the grandeur of the palace that has more than 700 rooms. Your next aim should be to reach Hyde Park by strolling down Constitution Hill. This is one of the biggest royal parks in London, where you can indulge in many leisure activities and see its own attractions such as the Speakers’ Corner and the Serpentine. You will end up at Marble Arch.

Stop for Lunch: By this time you will be famished but since there are many Restaurants in Hyde Park that will come to your rescue you can fill your stomach with just the type of cuisine that you like and at an affordable rate if you want. There are many top-rated restaurants also if you have the money. You will find many chain restaurants, fast food outlets and cafes also where you can relax before moving ahead.

Afternoon Tea at The Montcalm Marble Arch: Since you are near Marble Arch, you should also get a taste of the quintessential English tradition of afternoon tea, which is best served at the Montcalm Marble Arch hotel. You will be able to relish wonderful tea along with scones, cakes and other such items. Afternoon tea is also available with champagne which makes a great combination.

Spend the Evening at the West End: You should then take the tube to Leicester Square where you will be in the heart of the West End which is the den of theatres, restaurants and bars. The area also has some cinemas and if you are lucky you might spot some celebrities there. You can have a wonderful night out here especially at one of the bars or at a night club. You can also decide to see a musical show at one of the theatres. A visit to London without visiting a theatre for a live stage show would be incomplete. The area also has many restaurants that serve all types of food ranging from Indian curries to old English pub food to Italian pasta dishes. They have something for everyone.

Explore the Bars: To finish the night in style, you should take on a bar crawl around the West End or visit a bar in the area where you can enjoy live music. You can enjoy drinking a cocktail or a few beers at one of the traditional English pubs around the area. You can also head to Grand Park London Hyde Park Hotel, where you can relax and enjoy the drinks in the in-house bar or in its lounge. It would be best to stay at this hotel for the night as you will get luxurious accommodation with the best of facilities. Moreover, you can enjoy its various amenities and get a good night’s sleep in this quiet retreat in the midst of the hustle and bustle of central London.

A New Morning — A New Day: When you get up in the morning, you can get ready and then enjoy the hotel’s fantastic full English breakfast that will provide enough fuel for the day ahead. By this time, the fatigue from the previous day will have vanished and you will be ready to move to your next destination after having spent a wonderful 24 hours exploring London.

Little-Known Facts about Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace is one of the most recognisable palaces in the UK and also one of the most famous landmarks that people around the world know about. It has been the residence of generations of royals and keeper of priceless treasures although it has had a humble start as a large townhouse until it became the residence of the British monarchs. There are plenty of interesting facts associated with the palace that not many people might be aware of.

It is Not the Official Residence of the Sovereign: Although, Buckingham Palace is where Queen Elizabeth normally stays when she is in London, St James’s Palace is still her official residence and foreign ambassadors are formally accredited to the Court of St James’s.

A Whole Lot of Rooms in Buckingham Palace: An incredibly large number of rooms make up the palace, 775 to be precise including 19 state rooms, 52 Royal and guest bedrooms, 188 staff bedrooms, 92 offices and 78 bathrooms. Over 800 members of staff live at the palace, including a flagman, fendersmith and clockmaker. The palace has 350 clocks and watches that are looked after by two horological conservators, who both work full-time keeping them going all the time.

There was a Mulberry Garden at its Site: At the site of the palace, a mulberry was started by King James I to rear silkworms. However, it did not succeed as the wrong species was chosen by the king.

Its Name: It was named after the Duke of Buckingham: Buckingham Palace was built by a Tory politician, John Sheffield, 3rd Earl of Mulgrave, Marquess of Normanby, and later the Duke of Buckingham in 1703, to serve as his London home for his visits to the city.

Queen’s House:  The palace was known as Queen’s House after King George III bought it in 1761 at a cost of £21,000 (£3m smackers in today’s money),  as a gift for his wife Queen Charlotte as her London home. 14 of their 15 children were born here. However, the palace was not an Official Royal residence until Queen Victoria declared it so during her reign.

It Became a Palace in the 1820s: The house was remodelled in the 1820s and turned into a palace when King George IV commissioned John Nash to do so. However John Nash was removed from the job as the construction became very expensive. George’s successor William IV hired Edward Blore to complete the palace.

If you are visiting London for pleasure or for business, you need to stay at a strategic location in central London so that you are close to the places that you intend to visit during your trip in order to save time, energy and money and be able to accomplish more during a day. One of the best such places is Grand Park London Hyde Park Hotel that will also provide most luxurious stay with best facilities at affordable cost.

The Palace was First Occupied by Queen Victoria: Immediately after occupying the throne in 1837, Queen Victoria moved to Buckingham Palace and made it her official residence. Her predecessor William IV had preferred to live at Clarence House and to use St. James's Palace for State functions.

If you are out on a sightseeing spree in London, you will find that Restaurants in Hyde Park will be the closest and best places for a meal as most attractions are concentrated around Hyde Park or are just a short tube ride away. Moreover, a variety of cuisines are available.

Major Extensions in the Palace Only Until Early 20th Century: It was only until early 20th century that major structural additions were made with the last one taking place in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, such as the East front where the famous balcony where the royal family traditionally appears to greet crowds outside, is located. The Queen’s gallery was built at the site of the palace chapel that was destroyed by a German bomb during World War II. It was officially opened in 1962. It now displays works of art from the Royal Collection.

Largest Private Garden in London: The Buckingham Palace garden is the largest private garden in London and is the venue for the Queen’s garden parties.

Each Year the Palace State Rooms are Open to the Public: The state rooms are where official and state entertaining takes place and they are thrown open to the public each year during most of August and September as part of the Palace's Summer Opening, when the Queen is away.

Union Flag at the Palace: Contrary to the common perspective that Her Majesty the Queen is in the palace when the Union flag is flying at full mast, the truth is that her presence in the palace is only conformed when the Royal Standard flies at full mast.

Secret Tunnels: The palace was built on top of a network of super-secret tunnels due to which the famous royal residence is connected to all the nearby streets in St James’ through the passageways running under the surface of the palace. These passageways were the favourite places of the Queen Mother and King George VI (the mother and father of Queen Elizabeth II) that they loved to explore. They even met a very polite man from Newcastle, on one of their trips, who said that he lived there.

The Self-Contained Palace: Buckingham Palace is self-contained as it has its own chapel, post office, swimming pool, doctor’s surgery and cinema.

Four Royal Christenings: The Archbishop of Canterbury had christened four royal babies in the Music Room at Buckingham Palace – The Prince of Wales, the Princess Royal, The Duke of York and Prince William.

Births and Deaths at the Palace: The only monarch in the palace’s history who was born at the palace and who also died there is Edward VII (1841-1910). The other royals who were born there include William IV, and Prince Charles and Prince Andrew, the sons of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.