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Hidden Gems for Brazil holidays

When you think about Brazil holidays, there are some classic images that pop into your head. Perhaps it’s the famous view over Rio and the Guanabara Bay from the statue of Christ the Redeemer; perhaps the grand sweep of the Iguazu Falls; or perhaps you dream of the long lazy curves of the Amazon... What’s almost certain, unless you’ve already started researching a holiday in Brazil, is that you won’t be thinking of the epic terrain of the Chapada Diamantina, the colourful vistas of the Pantanal, or the deserted sand dunes of Lençois Maranhenses.

Outside of Brazil, most people haven’t even heard of these areas, despite the fact that they offer some of the most fascinating and unique experiences you could wish for. There’s no denying the appeal of Rio or the awesome scenery offered by Iguazu Falls, but when you’re planning your Brazil holidays it’s worth taking the time to at least think about some of those areas of Brazil that are just a little off the beaten track...

The enormous Pantanal wetlands

Wildlife in The Pantanal

We’ll start with one of the undisputed hidden gems that Brazil has to offer – the enormous Pantanal wetlands. Covering a huge area roughly the size of France, the Pantanal forms part of Brazil’s border with Paraguay and Bolivia, and constitutes the largest area of wetlands on earth. A maze of small streams and larger rivers cut through areas of savannah-type grasslands, reed marshes and semi-tropical forest, all of which are home to different types of wildlife. In fact, it’s a little-known fact that the Pantanal is actually more diverse than the Amazon rainforest! The range of wildlife available here is, quite simply, breathtaking, and the fact that the scenery is largely open means that it’s also much easier to see the wildlife – on Brazil holidays in the Amazon (great though it is) you do tend to spend a lot of your time peering through dense foliage and trying to get your camera settings right – in the Pantanal, you can just relax and enjoy the experience!

Trekking in The Chapada Diamantina

Moving on the North-East of Brazil, the Chapada Diamantina is an example of the range of landscapes that Brazil has to offer. Where the Pantanal is low, flat and watery, the Chapada Diamantina is high, dry and rolling. Named for the diamond mines which formerly provided most of the work in this remote part of Brazil, today it is a trekking paradise, with many of the former miners now working as guides for the tourists who want to get away from the crowds and see something of the Real Brazil on their holidays in Brazil. There are a range of different treks available, from short day treks out from the pretty colonial town of Lençois, to full-on multi-day expeditions camping out on the mountains. Whichever you choose, the epic nature of the landscape is sure to impress you – a vast range of rolling hills which seems to go on forever, largely covered in scrub forest but cut through with babbling mountain streams, waterfalls and natural swimming-pools: perfect for cooling off at the end of a good day’s trekking!

"...and natural swimming-pools"

Sao Luis and Lençois Maranhenses

Staying in the North-East, but offering something wildly different again, is the northern state of Maranhão. Easily accommodated together with Brazil holidays visiting the Chapada Diamantina, the small colonial town of Sao Luis is a favourite with anyone who has visited it – small, cobbled streets lined with galleries and cafes, and home to some of the oldest Afro-Brazilian traditions, it’s a slice of living history and great fun to boot. Even better, is that a few miles away you have what must be one of the most bizarre landscapes on earth...

"one of the most bizarre landscapes on earth..."

The Lençois Maranhenses National Park covers over a thousand square kilometres and at first sight, looks like an honest-to-goodness Lawrence of Arabia-style desert, with sweeping sand dunes as far as the eye can see. Once you look more closely, however, you realize that this desert landscape is dotted with thousands of small lagoons in ranges of iridescent blues and greens.  In fact the area is not technically a desert at all – there is a regular rainy season at the start of the year which fills the valleys between the dunes with fresh water. These then evaporate slowly over the course of the year, until they are replenished again by the new rainy season. What’s even more bizarre is that many of these lagoons actually contain fish! It’s generally believed that passing seabirds deposit eggs every year, although being born into an ever-shrinking home can’t be a great deal of fun for the poor fish concerned!

Any of these destinations would be a worthy addition to any holiday in Brazil, and you’ll also have the pleasure of having them largely to yourself – so make sure you enjoy them while you can, and before everyone else catches on!

Dan Clarke works for Real Brazil Holidays, and spends most of his time counting down the days until he can get back to Sao Luis and enjoy some kite-surfing in Lençois Maranhenses...

What you shouldn't miss in Madrid at Christmas

The Christmas market in Madrid opened last week in Plaza Mayor. So, what are you waiting for? Go there to buy your Christmas decorations, food and sweets. You can already smell the Christmas spirit surrounding this historic square which once was the stage for public executions and has turned into a meeting place that gets full of good vibes at this time of the year.

Apart from this awesome Christmas market, you should buy funny items in the jokes and costumes market in Plaza Santa Cruz, a few steps from Plaza Mayor. There you will find funny stuff for New Year's Eve and the Día de los Inocentes on 28th December (Spanish equivalent to April's Fool).

Buy your Christmas presents in the thousands of shops in the center of Madrid or in El Corte Inglés department store. But first, take some time to watch the amazing and beautiful Christmas shows and decorations. Outstanding is the Cortylandia Christmas show which you can see on the facade of El Corte Inglés in Preciados street. If you have children, they are going to love it! Friendly, colorful robots dance at the rhythm of the catchy Cortylandia song.

After your Christmas shopping, you might be hungry. Why don't you have some churros with chocolate? Have a cup of hot chocolate and dip your churros into it! These typical strip fried doughs are delicious and the hot chocolate will help you stand the cold temperatures in December.

Would you like to go ice skating? Take your children to the artificial ice rink in Plaza Callao, very close to the Cortylandia show. This ice rink is only for kids and you will find a beautiful, decorated Christmas tree next to it. If you go to Plaza La Luna, you can go ice skating as well.

But the best of Christmas holidays in Madrid is that they are very long (at least for children), since they don't finish until the 6th January! That's great, don't you think?

Although Santa Claus also visits the city, Madrid children wait more impatiently for the Three Wise Men arriving on 5th January. These three magicians, in Spanish culture, go on a parade around the city, smile at children, greet them and throw them sweets. Their pages and lorries full of presents go with them. At the tail end of the parade, a lorry full of coal is the most feared and least loved by children. Tradition says that naughty kids will not get presents, but a piece of coal!

"If you don't go to sleep soon, the
Three Wise Men won't leave you any gifts!"

Once the Three Wise Men parade is finished, go quickly to your Madrid apartment to have dinner and go to bed early. If you don't go to sleep soon, the Three Wise Men won't leave you any gifts! And, don't forget to leave them a glass of water and some biscuits for them and their camels. They still have a very long night ahead!

The Historic City of York

I have always wanted to walk on the pavements of where the amazing kings and queens have walked on, where princes and princesses have held hands together, and where history of monarchy has unfolded little by little that I can almost have the glimpse of what it is like to live like royalty. Okay I maybe I sounded a little dramatic on my introduction, but there’s no doubt that one city has captured my enthusiasm for medieval facts, I give you the City of York.

This city has a lot of stories to tell coming from the mighty walls of their castles and palaces as well as their dungeons and other tourist attractions.

If you love long walks and great conversations, then the Medieval City Walls will be the perfect location for you to exchange amazing stories with your friends. These walls represent courage, loyalty to the country and monarchy. About 2.5 million people walk on these walls every single year so don’t miss your chance to be part of the statistics if you will ever visit York.

Now if you love going to scare houses in theme parks or want to show off how brave you are to a girl that you are trying to make a good impression on; then it’s a must that you visit Yorks famous dungeon.  This is one of York’s ultimate tourist attractions first because of the thrill and suspense that you could experience on your visit and next are the stories and the history on each and every area inside of it.

Trust me, they can be really creepy but the despite me having quite a nerve wracking experience, I can guarantee that you’ll leave this place fascinated of the events that happened centuries ago and that you’ll realize their significance on how they have molded the culture of this town. Prepare your courage as you visit it at 12 Clifford Street in York.

Your next step has to be the Jorvik Viking Center. Witness how the people lived back in the medieval ages. See all those 1000 year old houses and other materials that were used during those times and watch history unravel itself right before your modern eyes as the guides explain you the details of the culture and customs of the Vikings and the locals back in the old days. The astounding pieces of information that you’ll learn from all those things are indeed priceless.

York Minster

After the Viking center, take a trip to the York Minster and be amazed on the architectural structure of this massive cathedral. Europe has been blessed to be a place where amazing churches were built and York is one of those cities in this continent that has proved it. The interior of this church will blow you away because it has the word art written all over it. Here you’ll also find the Archbishop of York.

Now I know that roaming around York can be really tiring especially if you started at the City Walls. You’ll be hungry and you’ll need a nice snack after it so it’s time to check out their famous Betty’s Tea Room. Founded back in 1919, get to experience the finest tea and pastries probably in the world with this café’s awesome menus! Their vintage motif will complete an ambiance just right for you to feel classy and elegant as you sip their tea. They have packaged their materials in a way that is really capturing so they’re also perfect as gifts!

Speaking of gifts, you can also shop in this place with their specialty stores located in a place that will remind you of Harry Potter’s Diagon Alley! Just make sure you bring a lot of money because the price tag on their items can be a little bit expensive.

If you think that it’s all Viking and medieval stuff in York, then let me tell you that their modern nightlife is actually really good! The people here know how to absolutely have fun in this millennium! Drinks and food are overflowing once the clock strikes 7 in their local pubs! York is indeed a must-see!

Written by http://www.worldwidetravelguide.co.uk

Florida's Top Five Holiday Resorts

The pulling power of Florida for tourists is undeniable. For Brits in particular, it is the sort of big, blockbusting holiday that they look forward to all year – or for those who are less lucky – a lifetime. The great thing about securing a Florida timeshare is that the big trip needn’t be a one-off – you can keep coming back every year. Here is a rundown of five of the best resorts in the Sunshine State.

Marriott’s Legends Edge
As the name suggests, this resort truly is the stuff of legend. Situated in Bay Point just across the water from Panama City, Marriott’s Legends Edge resort is the ultimate American adventure for those who love water sports, marina life and Northwest Florida’s famously white and sandy beaches. Decked out in true Marriott style with elegant touches all around the resort to compliment the lavish and spacious suites, Legends Edge brings real sophistication to the Florida timeshare scene. With scenic golf courses, marine life and glamorous coastlines all within easy reach, Bay point really is the ideal location.

Vistana's Beach Club
Offering an island-style getaway without the extra hassle of ferries or connecting flights, Vistana’s Beach Club sits proudly on Hutchinson’s Island, a thin stretch of land that hangs off Florida’s famous East coast. With stunning balcony views back across the bay towards Jensen Beach and the mainland on one side and miles of quiet, unspoilt golden shoreline on the other, the Beach Club’s location is bordering on heavenly. Just 45 minutes north of Palm Beach, there is something wonderfully serene and uncomplicated about this incredible resort.

Marriott Harbour Lake
A holiday haven for young families, Marriott’s Harbour Lake is perfectly located for those that want to explore the treasure trove that is Orlando, Florida. Just a couple of miles away from the vast and bountiful world of Walt Disney, Harbour Lake also offers plenty of on-site entertainment to save you having to visit Mickey Mouse and co every day of your stay! With a brilliantly executed pirate theme throughout, the resort is totally child friendly, with water playgrounds, mini golf and kids clubs to keep them busy, while the adults enjoy all the trademark Marriott finer touches.

South Seas Island Resort

"Lounging on the undisturbed beaches"

A truly breathtaking resort that offers a unique getaway for either a wholesome family break or a romantic couple’s retreat, the location of the South Seas Island Resort is truly something to behold. Only attached to the mainland and the beautiful Florida region of Cape Coral by the two mile-long Sanibel Causeway Boulevard, this secluded and exotic resort village is the perfect vacation sanctuary for both adventure and relaxation. From lounging on the undisturbed beaches to swinging your golf club, tennis racquet or fishing rod, there is a great variety for timeshare visitors.

Orange Lake
Featuring four challenging golf courses, Orange Lake Resort is bound to appeal to those who want a break from all the theme parks and burger bars on their visit to Orlando. The resort itself provides great family fun with a huge range of pools, slides and lazy rivers to keep the kids splashing around all day. All the big attractions are just a few miles away however, making Orange Lake the best of both worlds. Known for its great value and wholesome approach to the timeshare concept, the resort is a remarkably well kept secret and an incredible size, meaning there is always plenty to see.

Timeshare is still thriving in the American market and is little wonder given the sheer scale and quality of resorts in Florida and further afield. British holidaymakers can make the most of timeshare exchange networks to ensure that their weeks and maintenance fees aren’t wasted, meaning it remains a good time to sell timeshare or utilise the rental market.

New Years in Barcelona and What to Expect

Experience the traditional Spanish party atmosphere with a New Year’s break to Barcelona this year! Whilst many of the city’s tourist attractions are closed during the day, the night is when the city will come alive each New Year’s eve. Here’s a bit on what to expect from New Years in Barcelona:

Midnight Grapes
Start your New Year’s Eve celebration by trying the odd Spanish tradition of eating 12 grapes on the 12 chimes of midnight. If you succeed, it’s custom to make a wish! This tradition dates to as far back as 1895 and originated in Madrid, with links to the Puerta del Sol tower clock.

Lively Street Parties
Most of the locals start their evening celebrating with family and friends and a hearty Spanish feast, it’s after midnight that they’ll head out onto the streets to celebrate with neighbours and visitors to the city. Vibrant celebrations take place in Las Ramblas and Plaza Catalunya and young Barcelona residents usually head to the beach.

New Year’s Night Clubbing

New Year's Night Clubbing Spot

New Year’s festivities continue well in to the early hours of the morning, in fact clubs don’t usually open until 2am on New Year’s Eve. Favourite clubs with tourists and locals include: Razzmatazz, Jamboree, Catwalk, Sala Apolo and Shoko.

Arena Dance Parties
There are numerous indoor arenas which hold New Year dance parties for those who want to keep active during the celebrations, these usually sell out months before however, so do your research and book in advance to join in the fun.

Glamour Dress-Up
The people of Barcelona aren’t as obsessed with style as the Spaniards in Madrid, however New Year’s Eve may just be the one time of year when they really glam up! Whether you’re heading for a quiet evening dinner or hitting the town, it’s the perfect excuse to dress up and let your hair down.

Tapas with Friends
The restaurants on New Year’s Eve can be very busy, but if you are able to book a table then enjoying a traditional Spanish meal is highly recommended. Don’t forget to wash your dinner down with a glass of Sangria… or two!

Head to the Bars
Another place to go on a Barcelona New Year’s eve is the Gothic or Raval areas of Barcelona where you’ll find many bars in which to enjoy a drink and get to know the Barcelona people. Sometimes you’ll find you need to pay a large fee to get in, but check, there may be a free bar inside!

The ‘San Silvestre’ 10k Run
Looking for an unusual way to spend New Year’s Eve? In the day why not challenge yourself to the San Silvestre run, or at least watch it unfold. At around 5.30pm over 8,000 runners take part on this energetic tour of the city. If you get sponsored you could make money for charity too!

R. Hunt is a travel content writer for the easyJet holidays website and writes about city breaks to Barcelona and ideas for New Years breaks

Photo credit to Jim Reilly from Quebec

Five of the Best Surf Beaches in the World

Best Surf Beaches in the World

Surfers are always in pursuit of the ‘perfect wave’ and we’ve picked out some of the best spots in the world to start that search. Surfing may be one of the hardest sports in the world to master but it has also never been easier to learn with surf schools and surfing experience days popping up at beaches around the world, which are sure to have you standing up and riding the waves within hours. It is not hard to see the attraction of the sport; the combination of excitement and beautiful beach surroundings makes for a perfect day. The most popular spots are often blessed with bustling nightlife and a relaxed atmosphere so even if you aren’t taking to the water yourself you can still admire some of the best in the world riding the waves while you kick back and enjoy the stunning scenery.

Here are five of the best beaches in the world perfect for beginners and experts alike:

Bondi Beach, Australia
One of the world’s most famous beaches in what is commonly considered the world’s best country for surfing. There is no shortage of hotspots to ride the waves up and down Australia’s vast coastlines and while Bondi may not be the most challenging, it produces consistent waves and an inviting swell perfect for beginners and experienced surfers alike. Even if you don’t want to venture into the water yourself you can easily while away the hours chilling out on the beautiful beach or in seaview cafes admiring the hordes of expert surfers tackling the waves and showing off their skills.

Puerto Escondido, Mexico
Home to the famous Mexican Pipeline which attracts surfers from across the globe keen to challenge themselves on its waves of up to 12m high. The powerful water is not to be taken lightly, although calmer spots for beginners or swimmers do exist along the stretch of golden beach.

"Powerful water is not be taken lightly"

Waikiki, Hawaii
Traditionally considered the birthplace of surfing, it is awash with tourists but once you’re in the water you will quickly forget everything else and simply revel in the fine waves that made it such as hotspot in the first place.

Jeffrey’s Bay, South Africa

Perfect breaks combined with the warm waters of the Indian Ocean have made Jeffrey’s Bay - or J-Bay as it's commonly known - a true surfing mecca. Blessed with the laid-back atmosphere so commonly associated with surfing, the beautiful beaches are perfect for kicking back with a beer and a BBQ after a day of riding the waves. Just be sure to listen out for the shark warnings as Great Whites are known to inhabit the waters.

Kuta Beach, Bali
The idyllic beaches of Bali with their white sands, palm trees and crystal clear waters have made it a true tropical paradise holiday destination. But adrenalin junkies flock there for the  fantastic swells and huge waves as much as the laid-back lifestyle of the Indonesian island, with surfing conditions to suit all abilities.

This article has been created by Activity Superstore, the UK's leading Gift Experience Days supplier.