Category: Destinations

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Destinations

Mini travel guide to the Philippines, useful tips and information

Have you ever dreamt about spending time in sublime beaches without being surrounded by hundreds of other tourists? After traveling in Southeast Asia for almost a year, we can definitely promise you that the Philippines is the country that will fulfill the most easily these dreams of yours. But sure, how could it be not like this in a country that consists of an archipelago of more than 7000 islands and where almost the whole country is a beach? Apart from having first class beaches, hidden corners and fascinating locations for divers, there is one thing that will let you find your own paradise in this country: there are much less tourists in the Philippines than in other beach destinations. The amount of foreigners you find in this country can’t be compared to the mass tourism that you can find when you travel to Thailand, for instance. In addition to travel to the Philippines is also very special because of the people you will meet there. It might be because of the Christian heritage and the fact that their culture is much more similar to the European than in other places in Southeast Asia, but it is so easy to connect with the Filipino who start talking to you in any moment (most of them speak good English) or they just want to take a picture with you.

There are several reasons for that you will meet less tourists. Flying to Manila, the Filipino capital is not as easy and cheap as it is to other major cities in SE Asia. Then, traveling in the Philippines means taking other flights or boats, which make the trip slower, less comfortable, and sometimes even a bit unpredictable. Moreover, there are certain areas in the country which are considered dangerous because of the presence of fundamentalist religious groups.
Therefore, traveling to the Philippines requires good planning. In order to help you with the preparation of your travel to the Philippines, we prepared this brief travel guide for you with lots of useful tips.

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How to organize your trip to the Philippines

Looking at the map will immediately make you understand that organizing your travel to the Philippines is not something very easy. It is a country that consists of a lot of islands, which means that you will have to fly or travel by boat quite often. We strongly recommend you not to include too many islands in your trip to the Philippines, since you will easily get frustrated. Try to pick a couple of island groups at most, and focus your trip on those. In addition, flying to Manila is not as cheap as it is to Bangkok or Kuala Lumpur. Nevertheless, if you want to save money you’d rather fly to one of the previously mentioned cities and then take a low-cost flight (AirAsia, CebuAir, etc.) to enter the Philippines.

When to travel to the Philippines

The best time to travel to the Philippines is between December and May, which is the dry season, while during the European summer it’s the rainy season in the Philippines. During the wet months it rains almost every day, but you can still enjoy many sunny hours most of the days. Nevertheless, during these months you have to consider that your travel to the Philippines can coincide with one of the typhoons that hit the country every year. These typhoons cause quite a lot of damage usually, and they can ruin your trip, too. The Visayas Islands in the center of the country are the most protected islands from these huge storms.

Travel insurance

In the Philippines, just like traveling in the rest of Southeast Asia, it is very important to have a good travel insurance. You can get infected by different tropical diseases, and to have a good insurance is crucial for these cases.

Visa to travel to the Philippines

If your travel to the Philippines will last less then 30 days, you don’t have to bother too much. When you enter the Philippines, your passport will be stamped, which will let you stay one month in the country (not 21 days as it was before). You won’t have to pay any fees for that. If you want to stay more time, you can extend your stay for another month in the offices of immigration. This second month is not free any more, the current fee is 3.130 PHP (around 60 euros). More information on Visa issues.

Vaccines and medicine to travel to the Philippines

The only vaccine that you need to have, if you want to travel to the Philippines is the yellow fever, but only if you travel from an endemic area. Other vaccines that are usually recommended are: typhoid fever, diphteria, Japanese encefalitis and hepatitis A/B. As usual, we recommend you to visit a travel clinic in your country, where they will provide you with all the necessary information.

You have to consider that in most parts of the Philippines health care is pretty basic, hence it is quite important to have a complete first aid kit with you. In some areas of the Philippines there is also a possibility of getting infected by malaria, hence we recommend you to get informed on the current situation. Use of a good mosquito repellent is certainly necessary.

Time Zone

The Philippines is found in the UTC + 8 time zone.

Language

In the Philippines the official language is the Filipino (Tagalog), but there are many other languages spoken in the country. English is also a co-official language, hence much more people speak English than in other countries in Southeast Asia. In fact, to travel to Philippines is also a great opportunity to practice your English, if you are not a native English speaker. If you listen to Filipino people talk, you can also recognize many Spanish words, which was quite funny for us to hear.

Currency

In the Philippines the local currency is the Philippine peso (PHP). The current exchange rate is 1 euro = 52 PHP. In most bigger cities and tourist spots you will find ATM machines to withdraw money. Most local banks charge you 200 PHP as a commission (Citibank does not, but it is not so easy to find ATMs of this bank), so it is better to withdraw larger quantities.

WI-FI

In the Philippines, just as in most part of Southeast Asia, you will find free Wi-Fi in most of the accommodations. Even on islands that seem to be far from everything, you won’t have any problem in finding internet connection.

Safety

The Philippines is one of the countries where we would really like to go back soon. Nevertheless, we have to tell that the Philippines is not the safest country is Southeast Asia. In bigger cities (especially in Manila) thefts are quite common, whereas in more remote islands (especially in Mindoro) several tourists have been kidnapped by fundamentalist groups. It is always better to get informed before you travel to the Philippines, especially if you plan to visit more remote areas.

Where to sleep in the Philippines

In the Philippines it is not always very easy to find cheap and nice accommodation. Nevertheless, with some effort, you will always find something decent.

How to get around in the Philippines

Traveling in Southeast Asia, one gets used to traveling in local buses or by minivan most of the time, whereas your travel in the Philippines will include more trips by boat and by plane than on land.  This makes traveling more complicated, which also makes many people stay away from this country.

If you plan to fly, there are several low cost companies you can use for that. With AirAsia and Cebu Pacific you will find great deals most of the time.

Between islands that are close to each other, traveling by boat is the best option, although these boat services can have pretty unpredictable timetable. Sometimes they don’t leave until they have a certain number of passengers, they get canceled because of a breakdown, they don’t let you on board, because there is no more space, etc. When you travel to the Philippines, you need a good amount of patience, too.

Where to eat in the Philippines

Food is not the strongest point of the Philippines. There isn’t a perfect country, so we have to say that food is pretty disappointing in the Philippines, especially compared with the culinary delicacies in the neighboring countries. They eat a lot of bread, burgers and other not very healthy stuff. At least it’s inexpensive, and you will easily find food stalls to buy a sandwich or something similar for very little money. It’s also possible to find local restaurants, where you can try typical Filipino food. The most typical dishes are the filipino spaghuetti (with a sweet tomato sauce and sausage) or the caldereta (a kind of stew that we liked a lot).

Budget for your travel to the Philippines

We spent around 15 € a day each when we traveled in the Philippines. Nevertheless, we had to stay for 6 days in the same place, since Gábor was sick. Therefore, we can say that traveling in the Philippines is somewhat more expensive than traveling in the rest of Southeast Asia, but you can still make it on 20-25 € per day.

We hope that our short guide will be useful to organize your travel to the Philippines.

The major attraction in the Philippines are the beaches and marine life, especially the beaches in Coron and Palawan are breathtaking.  Nevertheless, there are also interesting natural and cultural sights to visit. Amongst them we especially recommend the famous Banaue Rice Terraces and the hanging coffins of Sagada.

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Destinations

What to do and see in Bangkok

Bangkok is one of those cities that instantly seduces you with its colors, sounds and odours. It’s one of the largest cities of Southeast Asia with so many different sides and faces, and most travelers love to return there every now and then. Bangkok has a lot of ancient monuments, fantastic gastronomy that gives you new impulses even after a lot of time you spent there. It’s also an ideal place for all sorts of shopping and everything is integrated together to such extent that in this city even the shopping malls seem to be monuments that have to be visited.

Here, we just give you a shortlist of what to see and do in Bangkok, the “must stuff” from our point of view.

VISIT TEMPLES AND OTHER MONUMENTS

Without any doubt the Grand Palace and the huge temple complex Wat Phra Kaew, are amongst the essential places to visit in Bangkok. The temple of Wat Pho is also indispensable with the famous golden reclining Buddha-statue in its interior. In addition, we really recommend you to visit a place that is not in all tourists’ agenda, that is climbing the Golden Mount, where you will find a beautiful golden stupa and you can enjoy the most spectacular views of the city.

Another not so touristic, but very authentic and somewhat peculiar location is Erawan Shrine, a holy place where locals say thanks to the Gods, which is situated between skyscrapers and skytrains. A strange encounter of modernity and tradition.

WALK IN SOME OF THE NICE PARKS

Despite the huge traffic in Bangkok, which you will notice everywhere, there are places in the city where you can escape from the hustle of the city. Our pick would be the Lumphini Park, where apart from a nice pond you can also meet some really huge lizards walking around (which are by the way completely harmless).

ENJOY THE COLORS OF CHINATOWN

Chinatown is probably the most vivid part of the city, where you can find endless variety of street food, small markets and shops, where you can buy all that you can imagine. At night street life becomes even more lively, and experiencing it is something that you really have to live at least once.

VISIT THE SOI COWBOY STREET

We included Soi Cowboy amongst the things that you have to see and do in Bangkok, because it’s a very peculiar place, which many of you will find funny and strange. A street with lots of lights, a little bit in Amsterdam style, a very small “red light district” with girls inviting you inside the bars to see the shows, where who knows what’s going to happen.

EAT, EAT AND EAT

If there’s something that especially makes worth visiting Bangkok, for us these are the food stalls, which you can find everywhere. It’s funny to see local businessmen waiting in line for a piece of fried chicken. We really tried to taste as many different kinds of things as possible, and we spent basically the whole day eating, since these food stalls are just everywhere and they make you feel like trying these delicacies.

If you are vegetarian or vegan, you will also find a bunch of great places to eat. Here’s a great guide for you about vegan Bangkok.

DO SOME SHOPPING

Apart from the famous MBK shopping mall, where you can find technological products of all famous brands (phones, laptops, etc..), we also recommend you a walk in the Terminal 21 shopping mall. The latter has a very original design: it’s like an aiport where all floors have the name of a famous city and the design is related to that particular city.

Another must visit place is the Chatuchak Market, which is the largest market in Thailand, and where you can buy absolutely everything you can think about, while you enjoy the great food you can taste there.

ENJOY THE VIEW OF BANGKOK FROM THE SKY

And finally we left one of our favorite places to the end, which really can’t be left out from the list of what to see and do in Bangkok, and that’s the impressive Sky Bar. They have a strict dress code, it’s very overpriced, but the views you can enjoy from there are unbelievable and compensate for everything. It opens around sunset, so it’s worth going there early to enjoy the day view, the sunset and the lights of the city at night, too.

We returned to Bangkok several times during our travels around Thailand, and we really fell in love with the city. It is so vibrant, it never makes you feel bored and wherever you go, you will always find surprises and new things to see and do.

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How to travel cheaper? Our 3 golden rules

I am often asked what my tips are for traveling at the best price! That’s how I came up with the idea to write this article. So I’m sharing with you our tips for traveling cheaper, because we all dream of being able to take the trip of our dreams without breaking the bank.

1. Organize everything yourself to travel cheaper

The first and most important rule when you want to travel at the best price is to organize your trip yourself! For example, before booking our road trip to Canada (cancelled due to covid) , we compared the prices of a travel agency  with our own research. The agency had given us a quote of €12,000 for a family of 4 (2 adults + 2 children). By organizing everything ourselves, the trip cost us €6,000. The figures speak for themselves. Organizing your trip allows you to make huge savings and adapt your choices (accommodation, transport, etc.) to your budget.

However, you should know that wanting to take charge of organizing your trip requires a lot, a lot of time. I spend hours finding the best prices, the must-see places, planning the itinerary… For my part, I love it! Almost as much as the trip itself. For those who like to travel without taking their heads, a travel agency or a travel planner remain ideal solutions.

2. Book in advance to travel cheaper

Some will say that last minute can be a great deal but we have never tried this option. I like to take the time to organize and plan everything in advance before discovering a destination. But I am sure that the unexpected and the unforeseen must bring a certain excitement to the trip and sometimes even be a good surprise on the budget side.

When you want to go outside Europe, you look at the prices of plane tickets between 6 and 9 months before the desired travel date . And once again, after doing a few tests, we realized that the price went from single to double (or even triple). And this, for the same date and the same destination but by booking barely 2 months in advance. So we never took this risk because our travel plans are not flexible and we never leave on a whim. In addition, booking in advance allows you to have a wider choice in terms of accommodation. And if you like to visit like us, some emblematic places require booking months in advance!

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3. Compare prices to travel cheaper

Here is what takes the most time but is essential when you want to travel at the best price: COMPARE prices. By doing this kind of exercise (Excel spreadsheet in front of you!), you will see that you can find all the prices and especially very good prices if you are looking for the best deals!

PLANE TICKETS 

First step of a travel project: book plane tickets. And there our best ally is the Skyscanner flight comparator . As parents and employees, we have date constraints. So we are not really flexible when it comes to our trips. For our romantic city trips we always leave during the weekend and when we leave with the children, it is during the school holidays. Obviously, these are not the most recommended periods to find the cheapest tickets. However, the flight comparator allows us to find the most competitive airline and the cheapest flight times.

On the other hand, if you are flexible and can leave at any time (during the week and off-season), you can get great deals. Another super economical tip that we have never used, and if you don’t have a particular plan, adapt your destination to the price of the tickets! And finally, to save a few more euros, and if you can, don’t take hold luggage. Traveling in cabin luggage when you are leaving for a few days is rather easy (but paying on some low-cost airlines) . On the other hand, when you are leaving for a long trip, it is more difficult to apply this tip especially with children!

ACCOMMODATION 

Whether you choose a hotel or an apartment, here too you have to compare prices. Besides, it is often more interesting for the budget to rent an Airbnb . I am not talking about youth hostels which are also a great option because it is not at all our thing. With our 40 years and some, we like our comfort but also to please ourselves! If you prefer to stay in a hotel, review the price offered on Booking and that offered by the hotel that interests you. Even with a Genius status, Booking is not necessarily the cheapest. It is often more interesting to go directly through the hotel and sometimes even to get a discount.

CAR RENTAL 

During our city trips, we like to do everything on foot. For us, it’s the best way to discover a city. Sometimes we save our legs after long days of walking by using public transport. When we go away for longer, we rent a car to be able to get around easily. For this, we use the Rentalcars comparator to find the most suitable car at the best price.

On the other hand, be careful because choosing the cheapest rental company is not always the best option. The first thing to do is to check if they take debit cards. They represent the majority of cards that the French have. However, and very often, low-cost rental companies require credit cards. Then, you have to be careful about the amount of the deposit which can be exorbitant. There are also additional insurances that you may be forced to take out. Finally, the price will also be higher if you prefer to pick up your vehicle directly at the airport. Look at everything in detail and don’t be afraid of sometimes losing a few euros because some rental companies have very dubious practices and you can easily get scammed!

THE PARKING 

To park our car at the airport, we often use Onepark which is a comparator and an online booking site for parking spaces. It allows you to make huge savings because it offers parking spaces in hotels near train stations and airports with free shuttle service. And the good deal is that if you click on this link you can save 10% on your first reservation!

THE VISITS 

When we go to discover a European capital, whether as a couple or with family, we love visiting museums. Once again, we compare prices before booking our tickets. We have noticed that those sold on official websites are often cheaper. On the other hand, they cannot be canceled or changed. If you are cautious, sites like Civitatis or GetYourGuide often offer free cancellation up to 24 hours before the visit but also a more varied choice of visits.

It is very interesting for some destinations to take Tourist Passes such as Go City. This is what we did during our getaway to New York that we talked about in our article on our budget for 5 days in New York . We found it very interesting because this kind of Pass allowed us to see the must-see places of the city while saving money.

Finally, depending on the day or time of year, some museums offer free entry. The only drawback for very touristy monuments is that this free entry attracts a lot of people. You will not be alone and you will have to be patient.

THE FOOD 

Finally, there is a budget that can literally explode, it is that of food. Some destinations are more expensive than others. You will pay almost nothing to eat delicious tapas in Spain but you will ruin yourself in New York! So you have to know how to adapt. When you stay in hotels with breakfast included, you often skip lunch, otherwise it is often lunch on the go. I can tell you that in New York we ate slices of pizza for 1 dollar!! For the evening, we go to a few restaurants because we also like to treat ourselves but we eat local. We look for good affordable addresses by reviewing the reviews on Tripadvisor. In Airbnb, we go to the market, do some shopping and we cook!

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Traveling to Australia: Mini Travel Guide with Lots of Tips

Before travelling to Australia, we all realise the huge distance between Spain and Australia , but perhaps fewer people understand the dimensions of this country . The distances are huge, so planning an itinerary requires good organisation. It is impossible to see everything important in Australia in one trip and it is always better to focus on a specific part of the country. Many people dream of living in Australia for a while , as salaries are very high in any sector and you can save money in a short time to then take a nice trip around the country. Here is our mini guide to travelling to Australia with lots of information and many useful tips.

How to travel around Australia

Australia is like a continent . Apart from the huge distance between Spain and Australia (it takes at least 24 hours to get there), you will also have to consider the distances within the country itself . We recommend choosing just a few places to visit during your trip to Australia, otherwise you will spend all your time on the road and all your money on petrol.

Most people travel along the coast of Australia where there are plenty of things to do, but if the country’s interior, the famous “Outback”, calls to you, you need to be well prepared. In the Outback, distances between places are huge , mobile coverage is scarce and you may soon find yourself in a place far from civilization. You will need to bring plenty of water (and gasoline) and if possible, inform someone of your itinerary, because if your car breaks down, you may find yourself without help.

Requirements for traveling to Australia

For Spanish citizens (and those from the European Union) there  is no visa requirement for travelling to Australia if the purpose of the trip is tourism. You will simply have to go to the Australian consulate’s website, enter your details in the appropriate eVisitor form and you will normally receive approval within a few minutes. If you are unlucky, like Gábor at the time, they will ask you for more information. Apart from that, you will only need to have a valid passport and you will be able to enter the country.

The documentation is simple, but there are other requirements to consider if you want to travel to Australia . This country protects itself from diseases in the world, so you cannot enter with fruit, vegetables, meat and other products of this type . They carry out quite serious controls at customs and if you get caught, you will have problems, so it is better to declare everything.

Traveling to Australia: Mini Travel Guide with Lots of Tips

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Requirements to live and work in Australia

It is the dream of many to go and live in this country , since salaries in Australia are really high . However, it is very difficult to get a work visa if you do not have a profession that is in demand in the country. You can find out about the possibilities on the  Australian immigration page .

For those under 30 years of age, there is the option of obtaining a Working Holiday Visa and the good news is that just recently (in July 2017) the number of places for Spaniards has been increased from 600 to 1500. This visa allows a 1-year stay in Australia, of which you can spend 6 months working. From 1 January 2017, it is possible to request an extension of the visa for another year.

The best time to travel to Australia

As we have already mentioned before, Australia is like a continent with very different climates in different parts of the country . Therefore, there is no best time to travel to Australia in general . We traveled in August during the southern winter and although we were cold in some specific places, in the Northeast of the country at this time the climate is much milder and drier.

Therefore, for us, the European summer is a better time to travel to Australia than the high season (December to February) , since in the high season not only will everything be more expensive, but it also rains a lot in the north and even the roads can flood. The European summer is the holiday season, but considering the huge distances between Spain and Australia, in this country it is unlikely that you will feel surrounded by Spaniards or other Europeans no matter what time of year you travel to Australia.

Security

Australia is one of the safest countries in the world . The quality of life that most people have means that crime is very low in Australia. We lost a mobile phone in the car park of a shopping centre and when we returned a few hours later, we got it back because someone found it and left it at the reception desk. Every traveller comes back with stories like this.

However, travelling around Australia will not make you feel as safe, not because you are afraid of the Aussies, but because of other elements of nature such as the hostile climate of the interior that we have already mentioned and all the dangerous animals that are there, so you have to do things with caution.

For example, driving at night on Australian roads can be very dangerous , as kangaroos suddenly appear in front of you and a crash is guaranteed. In fact, many insurance companies do not cover these types of accidents after dark.

If you want to enjoy Australia’s best beaches or swim in a lake or river, you’ll need to do your research before you do so. The small irukandji jellyfish are very dangerous , so if you see a sign on the beach that says “stingers”, you’d better swim somewhere else. Then there are crocodiles and sharks , whose attacks are also quite frequent, and some of the most poisonous snakes and spiders in the world are hidden in the sea . However, there’s no need to panic, just have a little common sense.

Just by considering all these natural dangers, you will understand why good travel insurance  is essential when travelling in Australia. 

How much does it cost to travel to Australia?

If you want to travel to Australia, unless you find a very special offer, you will have to spend a lot of money on the plane ticket , since the distance between Spain and Australia is huge. The country itself is also expensive, but you can do a lot to reduce your expenses.

In the big cities you can use Couchsurfing or another tool of this type to host other travelers, while traveling around the country you can rent a van, which is the cheapest option . This way you will not only be able to experience Australia in a more authentic way (visiting towns and other places where public transportation does not reach), but you will also save a lot on accommodation and food by cooking.

Where and what to eat in Australia

We didn’t really enjoy the typical food in Australia, as it is a rather expensive country and we travelled in a van that allowed us to cook our own food . However, in Sydney we were able to enjoy Asian food for very little money (there are many Asian immigrants in Sydney). The only typical Australian food we tried was kangaroo meat, which we bought several times.

Where to sleep in Australia

In Australia’s larger cities, there are plenty of hostels and hotels to suit any budget, although prices are quite high . The best way to save on accommodation while travelling around Australia is to rent a van. This way you won’t have to pay for accommodation, as there are plenty of places where you can stay with your van overnight.

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Canada: a dream destination for Christmas and New Year

Everyone has their own perfect plan to spend a memorable Christmas and welcome the New Year in the best possible way: with family, friends or in a place where they feel calm and comfortable. To spend a warm Christmas, we can choose countries in South America such as Argentina, Chile or Uruguay, where the New Year is welcomed in the middle of summer, or any tropical country. But those who have lived warm Christmases all their lives usually have the fantasy of snow and everything that it implies .

If this is your case and you are one of those who are looking for an impressive setting where you can live an adventure in the snow, there can be no better place to make it a reality than in Canada. And yes, we are talking about Canada as a country because during the winter months any corner of the country is tinged with white and it is possible to enjoy unparalleled natural landscapes : natural ski slopes, snow-covered pine forests, frozen waterfalls… You name it, Canada can certainly offer it to you.

Canada is a country with a very large surface area, which means that it has different climates throughout its territory. It has coasts on the Pacific where the climate is usually cold and foggy and a part of the country that borders the Arctic North, a practically frozen territory, but despite these extremes, the seasons are very marked, with summers of up to 30º (somewhat short, yes), and winters with temperatures below zero.

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That said, if you are one of those who is going to travel to Canada to celebrate Christmas or are planning to do so next year, these places that we are going to mention below should be on your list of destinations and plans to do.

Canada: a dream destination for Christmas and New Year

Go to Mont-Tremblant, in the province of Quebec

This small town of just over 9,000 inhabitants is located at the foot of the Laurentians mountain range, and lends its name to the ski resort that sits on one of the spectacular mountains that surround it. What does this mean? Exactly! It is the perfect place to spend a snowy Christmas and welcome the New Year in the tranquility that comes from being away from it all and surrounded only by a few people who, like you, come to Mont-Tremblant looking for that postcard-perfect place to end the year.

The biggest attraction of this small town is the ski resort, which in winter becomes a real amusement park for lovers of snow and winter sports. Mont-Trembant has 96 ski runs, 14 ski lifts, a panoramic gondola and more than 400 instructors available to guide and teach those who are not as experienced on the snow . Ticket prices range from 98 CAD per day to 59 CAD for a multi-day pass.

As for the experience in the village, it is lovely. Being a small place, its inhabitants are very hospitable to visitors, who can enjoy more than 30 restaurants, cafes and bars with a festive atmosphere. The Christmas decorations are especially charming: the lights, the decorated pine trees, the general feeling of gratitude and sharing… A whole experience that we recommend you live if you have the opportunity.

Banff, a town in the middle of a national park

We don’t know if the park gives its name to the town or vice versa, but Banff is the most important town in Banff National Park, which is located in the heart of the Rocky Mountains . If Mont-Tremblant seemed small and sparsely populated to you, Banff is even smaller: due to its geographical nature, the process of urbanization occurs in a controlled manner, but being one of the most important and visited tourist destinations in the country, it has a large number of hotels. It is the oldest national park in Canada and was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

As you might imagine, being located in the heart of a natural park, Banff has some amazing scenery to offer, starting with the number of lakes that during the summer have a penetrating aquamarine colour and, with the arrival of winter, freeze completely and become natural ski slopes . For suggestions, visit Lake Louise or Peyto Lake . Banff is an ideal place for lovers of the cold and snow sports. Among the many options offered by the park are ice climbing, sledding, snow slides or snowboarding.

Victoria, British Columbia

Victoria is considered the most British city in Canada, and one of those places that offer adventure, parties, dreamy winter landscapes, all in one package. It is located in the south of Vancouver Island and is a true gem. Its most famous postcard is that of the Butchart Gardens, probably the most colorful place in the entire country , which throughout the month of December and until January 6 is illuminated with hundreds of Christmas lights, in what is known as the “Twelve Days of Christmas.”

As for the city, it has a characteristic Victorian architecture that contributes to this whole Christmas postcard setting. During the holidays, the most emblematic places in the city are filled with lights and allusive decorations: Bacon Hill Park, Government House, Craigdarroch Castle and the Inner Harbor , among others. In Victoria, it is possible to fulfill the most cliché Christmas fantasies (which there are simply part of their set of traditions), from singing carols in front of a Christmas tree to ice skating under the stars.

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What to see and do in Thailand – Itinerary and travel guide

Are you thinking of travelling to Thailand and don’t know which places to visit? We can understand you, it’s difficult to decide what to see and do in Thailand if you only have 15 days. We have visited the tourist sites in Thailand in different stages during our trip around the world and we would return to this country many more times. It’s a place that we love, a place where we have spent quite a lot of time on several occasions and that we love very much. To help you put together your itinerary here we give you ideas for several possible routes with the most essential places. We hope that this way it will be easier for you to decide what to visit in Thailand . In addition, in the second half of the post we have also included a very complete guide to help you organize your trip to Thailand .

What to visit in Thailand

Bangkok

Bangkok is a big city, full of hustle and bustle but also of charming places. It is certainly one of the most touristic places in all of Thailand, because its atmosphere and nightlife attract everyone. For us it deserves at least 4-5 days, we recommend spending the last day in Bangkok to buy gifts before returning home.

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What to visit in Central and Northern Thailand

Lopburi

It is not essential, but if you have 1 day to spare,  Lopburi is a small town with few tourists, but with some very particular things like a temple full of monkeys.

How to get to Lopburi:

The best option is the train from Bangkok.

Sukhothai

We recommend staying for a couple of days including Si Satchanalai.

In the Sukhothai Historical Park  you will find some of the most important ruins of the Sukhothai Kingdom. To explore the whole park by bike you will need one day.

How to get to Sukhothai:

By train from Bangkok or continuing from Lopburi. Once at the station, hire a tuk-tuk to get to the centre, the hostel area.

Yes Satchanalai

Near Sukhothai, it is also worth visiting one of the least touristy places in Thailand, the ruins of Si Satchanalai, which are impressive and much less visited than those in Sukhothai.

How to reach Si Satchanalai:

By bus from Sukhotai, it will take you about an hour to reach Si Satchanalai . Once there, rent a bike and enjoy the place.

What to see and do in Thailand – Itinerary and travel guide

Chiang Mai

We recommend staying at least 3 days

Chiang Mai  is definitely one of the places that everyone should visit in Northern Thailand. It is a city that we loved for its wonderful temples, its lively markets, its atmosphere, the massages, the food and I won’t go on any further because I’m going to buy a plane ticket right now. It is worth being there on a Sunday as there is a very nice market in the centre.

How to get to Chiang Mai:

From Sukhotai you can take a bus.

From Bangkok, by low-cost flight, train, bus or minivan – there are many alternatives. The bus is the most comfortable option.

Chiang Rai

We recommend staying for at least 1-2 days.

The city of Chiang Rai itself may not be the most impressive, but the White Temple of Chiang Rai located on the outskirts of this city has no equal.

How to get to Chiang Rai:

From Chiang Mai the best option is to take a bus.

Tourist places in Southern Thailand: The best beaches and islands

And now we move on to the wonderful beaches:

Depending on the time of year, choose the East or West coast.

The best beaches and islands on Thailand’s east coast

Koh Tao

Of the three most popular islands (Koh Tao, Koh Samui and Ko Pha Ngan) in the Gulf of Thailand, we chose Koh Tao. We recommend staying at least 4 days.

Koh Tao is a great place for snorkelling and scuba diving. Koh Tao Island is famous for being an island with many diving schools and for being one of the cheapest places to get the “Open Water” certification. Koh Samui is the island for families and Koh Pha Ngan is the island for parties, with the Full Moon Party taking place every month, a total mess.

How to get to Koh Tao:

From Chiang Mai there are direct flights to the south, you can also take the train, or go through Bangkok and then continue south.

The cheapest option is to take the train to Surat Thani and then take a ferry from there.

The best beaches to visit on the West Coast of Thailand

Ao Nang (Krabi)

Ao Nang beach itself is nothing special, but there are some nice excursions to be made from Krabi around the area. You can visit the beautiful Railay beach or take a tour of the 4 islands . We recommend staying for at least 2 days.

How to get to Ao Nang:

From Koh Tao you have to take the ferry to Surat Thani and from there a bus to Krabi (changing in Hat Yai) and then a bemos to Ao Nang.

The Phi Phi Islands

Who doesn’t dream of seeing the blue waters of Maya Bay? Perhaps this island along with Phuket is the most touristic place in all of Thailand. We advise visiting it outside of the high season when you will be able to experience much more of the magic of the place.

How to get to Phi Phi Islands:

We recommend taking a day trip to Phi Phi  from Ao Nang so you can enjoy Maya Beach without having to stay in Koh Phi Phi where there are many tourists and prices are more expensive.

Koh Lipe

Koh Lipe is an island of peace and tranquility, a natural paradise and for us it is home to some of the best beaches in Thailand. We recommend staying at least 3 days.

How to get to Koh Lipe:

From Bangkok you can take a bus to Satun (we recommend at night) or the train and get off at the station in Hat Yai. The other option is to take a Bangkok -Hat Yai flight.

From Krabi: This is the best starting point to reach Koh Lipe. There are two options, the first is a direct boat (which operates only in high season), the second is to reach Satun by land by bus, take another bus to Pak Barra and then take the boat to Koh Lipe (this type of connection is available all year round).

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Visit Barcelona in 2 days: what to do in a weekend?

With the end of year rush, we wanted to disconnect for a weekend and we went to Spain to visit Barcelona in 2 days . Less than 2 hours flight from Paris, we found the sun, the sea and the tapas! Here is our itinerary and our ideas for visits to see the must-see places in Barcelona in a weekend!

Our Itinerary to visit Barcelona in 2 days

DAY 1

THE RAMBLA

Barely awake and after a good breakfast, we head towards La Rambla. 300 meters from our hotel, this emblematic avenue of Barcelona connects Plaça de Catalunya (to the North) to Port Vell (to the South) over 1.2 km. Largely pedestrianized, the rather touristy place is very lively day and night. We take the time to stroll to discover the Catalan atmosphere!

BOQUERIA MARKET

Going down the Rambla, you reach the famous Sant Josep Market, better known as the Boqueria Market. This market was inaugurated in 1840 in a former convent . This market is definitely worth a visit! The choice of products is impressive: fish, meat, vegetables, fruit, cheese, etc. You can also taste many local specialties, ideal if you’re feeling peckish. It’s a gourmet and very colorful market that we recommend visiting in the morning to avoid the crowds. The market is open every day from 8 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., but be careful, it’s closed on Sundays!

Visit Barcelona in 2 days: what to do in a weekend?

GOTHIC QUARTER

Now head to the Barri Gòtic where the historic heart of Barcelona is located. The only and best advice I can give you is to get lost in its medieval streets. We really loved walking there far from the hustle and bustle of La Rambla.

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DAY 2 

PARK GUELL

For this second and last day in Barcelona, ​​we go up a little in the Gràcia district . After walking 18 km the day before, we save ourselves by taking the bus to go to Parc Güell, another work of the Catalan artist Gaudí. This very lush garden of almost 20 hectares located on a hill offers a breathtaking view of all of Barcelona . We find Gaudí’s modernism there with colorful sculptures. It is a very pretty park where it is very pleasant to walk without being exceptional.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION:

  • Reservation required (choosing the day and time of the visit) on  the official website  where you will get the best price.
  • Opening hours: open every day from 9:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. ( 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. in winter)
  • Standard entry prices: adults €10 , children €7 (ages 7 to 12), free for under-6s

ROVIRA TURTLE

We continue our climb to reach the Rovira hill which is just over 1 km from Parc Güell. It’s quite a climb to reach the Buncker Del Carmel but the 360-degree view quickly makes us forget our efforts! From this viewpoint located at an altitude of 262 meters, we can enjoy the most beautiful panorama of the city. Free access.

BARCELONA

After this sporty climb, we take the bus again to enjoy the beach and the sun. It is mid-December and it almost feels like spring. We go to Barceloneta Beach, the closest to the city center. It can be reached on foot in 15 minutes from the Rambla. We stroll through the alleys of this old fishing district before taking a walk along the beach. You can’t miss the view of the futuristic architecture of the W Hotel in the distance. It is a very nice area where it is good to relax in the sun in one of the many beach bars and restaurants.

CIUTADELLA PARK & EL BORN DISTRICT

Before collecting our luggage from the hotel, we take advantage of the afternoon to stroll in the Parc de la Ciutadella in the heart of Barcelona. This park of about a hundred hectares built for the Universal Exhibition of 1888 is the largest park in Barcelona. With its waterfall, its pond and its many wooded and shaded areas, it is a real haven of peace in the middle of the city. Continuing our stroll, we admire the Arc de Triomf which was the former entrance gate to the park. Admission is free. 

Then we finish our discovery of Barcelona with the El Born district where there are many museums (Picasso Museum, Palace of the Catalan Museum, etc.). The prices of visits being particularly high in Barcelona, ​​we had to make choices and in 48 hours it was not possible to do everything.

Where to sleep in Barcelona?

My first question before planning our itinerary was which neighborhood to stay in Barcelona? Since we like to walk and we do most of everything on foot, we needed a central neighborhood. So we chose the Eixample neighborhood where the Sagrada Familia and Casa Batlló are located among others. This neighborhood is rather residential but still very lively and not far from La Rambla and Passeig de Gracia. It is the perfect neighborhood if you are a fan of architecture but also shopping or gastronomy.

So, we booked 2 nights at the Jazz Hotel located in the Eixample district, which is ideal for visiting the city and is therefore close to everything (buses, metros, shops, visits, etc.). Despite the lively area, the hotel was very quiet. The spacious and modern room was spotlessly clean. The breakfast was varied. Its little extra: its rooftop with its swimming pool which offers a superb view especially at sunset!

Where to eat in Barcelona?

We only stayed 2 days there but we absolutely wanted to eat local! Many addresses had been recommended to us but here are the ones that we had time to try and that we appreciated:

1) EIXAMPLE DISTRICT

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New Year’s Eve in Dubai: Best Places to Watch the New Year’s Eve Fireworks in Dubai

Dubai, the city of Gold and Burj Khalifa, the tallest tower in the world, makes celebrating New Year’s Eve in Dubai more festive than anywhere else in the world. If you want to create memories of the fantastic New Year’s Eve, come to Dubai and experience one of the most unforgettable moments of your life. Whether you are looking for fun, adventure or just a memorable getaway, there are plenty of ways to let off some steam all year round in the city that never sleeps. Fantastically decorated with trendy fireworks at various locations in Dubai, it is what makes Dubai one of the most exciting New Year’s Eve destinations. The Burj Khalifa tower surrounded by millions of lights leading into the New Year; this is something that has to be seen to be believed!

Here is a list of places that are great to celebrate New Year’s Eve in Dubai. These landmarks have hosted grand events for many years, so you can have fun, spend quality time with your friends and family at any of these places to ring in the New Year.

Top 10 places to spend New Year’s Eve in Dubai.

1. Burj Khalifa

There’s no denying the stunning beauty of Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. It’s a huge attraction for tourists and a top-class entertainment venue for locals, having been the site of some of Dubai’s most popular New Year celebrations. At midnight on December 31, fireworks light up the sky above Downtown Dubai, drawing people from all areas, including Mirdif and Downtown Dubai Mall, to watch the elaborate laser show that accompanies them. You might think it’s impossible to buy a ticket before all the seats are taken! But don’t worry, watch the epic show from anywhere in Downtown Dubai, from Mirdif or Downtown Mall and enjoy a feast for your eyes.

2. Atlantis the Palm Dubai

Where is the best place to celebrate New Year’s Eve 2022 in Dubai? Atlantis, of course! One of the most popular cruise destinations in the world, you can experience three unforgettable nights at this resort over New Year’s Eve weekend. Crowds are always bustling during these times, but it’s worth the bravery to see mind-blowing fireworks displays and entertainment at midnight. There are several exciting ticket options available, but be sure to book in advance to access both the beachside cabanas and the world-famous Palm Island bungalows. The gala dinner will give diners an elevated dining experience with exclusive nightlife shows hosted by Cirque du Soleil artists.

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3. Burj Al Arab

We recommend that you pay close attention to the details when visiting the Burj Al Arab in Dubai on New Year’s Eve. This year, the hotel will host a grand celebration that includes an exclusive fireworks display and a gala dinner with an extensive menu of 12 different culinary stations prepared by world-class chefs headed by Pierre Gagnaire. After this extravagant event, there will be a DJ playing upbeat music with a view of the spectacular fireworks in the background, making the evening in Dubai truly memorable.

4. Souk Madinat Jumeirah

Souk Madinat is not only a famous and popular place to host New Year celebrations, but it also has an alluring ambiance that makes the occasion memorable. This market stands out as one of the best places to shop for authentic souvenirs and art pieces from around the world. Just head there early so you can check out the amazing deals before midnight strikes, to ring in the New Year! Based on King Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Road, Souk Madinat is easily accessible for tourists in Dubai.

5. Amazonico Dubai on New Year’s Eve

If you are a party lover then you must head to Amazonico, Dubai’s premier Latin American inspired restaurant in the DIFC Pavilion for the Amazonico Club New Year’s Eve celebration. You will have everything you need including dancing under the mirror ball in the lounge where bossa nova is played along with live Brazilian dancing with glitter, neon lights and disco galore to complete the scene. There will be a live disc jockey before midnight in true Studio 54 style before you head to the buffet at the restaurant. Located in the DIFC Pavilion in Dubai.

6. Dhow Cruise Dinner on New Year’s Eve

If you are looking for something cozier to enjoy New Year’s Eve in Dubai, consider trying the Dubai dhow cruise. This venue allows you to enjoy New Year’s Eve from the comfort of air-conditioned luxury vessels with an open deck on board that offers spectacular views of the Dubai skyline at night. The deck allows for outdoor seating during the day so you can enjoy unobstructed views of Dubai’s attractions with the rest of your group without being too crowded in small spaces or boats unless you want to be.

7. New Year’s Eve in Dubai Desert Safari

If you end up celebrating this year’s New Year’s Eve in Dubai, you can consider visiting the golden sands of the desert because it will be less crowded with all the usual excitement of the city. You will have a splendid time watching the sunset in peace without being in constant noise pollution. To enjoy in style, there are plenty of activities to take part in such as sand play, motorcycling, and various other adrenaline-inducing games. For the evening festivities, bring your tents or get ready to rent one because you could have an extraordinary experience sleeping under the sky while enjoying a traditional dessert, coffee that comes with an amazing belly dance. This event will surely close your year on a high note!

8. New Year’s Eve celebrations in Dubai

Dubai welcomes people for New Year’s Eve. If you’re among the revelers and want to start the New Year off right, head to Barasti Beach – this shore is decorated in an ugly coyote theme. Dubai also has Atlantis the Palm with a KISS Rock Band and Warehouse party. For a Gatsby-themed party, check out The Penthouse or head to Jardin Desedo at the top of Town Square. For some casually dressed fun, you can attend one of the many parties – each of these will let the kids join in on your fun too!

9. Global Village

Come enjoy the festivities at The Global Village as they celebrate New Year’s Day in style! Every year, this is a very popular spot for locals and tourists alike to celebrate the exciting transition from one year to the next. Whether you just want to explore and soak up the different international cultures present, or you want to have a fancy dinner to kick off the celebration, you’ll feel right at home here. You could even stay up late into the night and do a countdown with everyone else as everyone counts down to midnight. Kids will enjoy watching music and fireworks shows, as well as taking part in fun activities like Carnival so the kids have a blast too.

10. New Year at Hatta Adventure

If you are a nature-loving person and don’t mind the hustle and bustle of city life, we highly recommend renting a car and visiting Hatta on New Year in Dubai. Located on the border between Oman and the UAE, this wonderful mountain town offers stunning views and opportunities to take part in a number of exciting outdoor activities such as kayaking, ziplining, mountain biking – just think of all the adventures! If you are looking for something more serene, we can point out picturesque places such as Hatta Heritage Village or Lake Hatta that might give you the chance to slow down and enjoy some peaceful moments. Have you ever spent the night in a chic desert camp? There’s nothing better than pitching your own tent when travelling, so we suggest checking out Chic Hatta Damani Lodges – another one of our favourite recommendations when in the UAE!

Here we will sum up our details of the best places in Dubai to celebrate New Year’s Eve. All these places are amazing and you can choose any of them as per your mood and nature. Just keep in mind that you need to make the hotel and flight bookings in advance to avoid the messy crowd. Happy New Year in advance!

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Destinations

Visit New York in 3 days: what to do? what to see?

Are you dreaming of discovering the Big Apple and want to visit New York in 3 days ? In this article, we share with you our itinerary and our advice for a first time in New York . We were lucky enough to visit New York twice! The first time was in October 2019 as a couple for our 40th birthday. Our second trip was with our family in May 2024! We therefore offer you the ideal program to see the must-sees. So if you are wondering what to do in New York in 3 days , follow the guide!

Before telling you in detail about our trip day by day, here is the itinerary that we followed during our two stays in New York and which adapts very well to a visit to New York with the family . This program is spread over 3 full days considering that you arrive the day before Day 1 and that you leave on the evening of Day 3. But if you stay longer in New York, you can adapt this schedule by reducing some days or by modulating it according to your desires.

Visit New York in 3 days

Day-by-Day Itinerary for 3 Days in New York

Day 1: Unforgettable First Impressions

TIMES SQUARE

Our hotel is located in the Times Square district, it is the first place we discovered when arriving in New York. The buildings, the luminous screens, the excitement… it is a pretty crazy place! You have to experience it in the early morning in total calm and at night when the district is buzzing. Times Square is a must-see place but it is also quite confusing and very noisy!

SUMMIT ONE VANDERBILT

When we came in 2019, the SUMMIT observatory did not yet exist. After seeing so many photos and videos on Instagram, we absolutely had to discover this trendy spot. We were afraid of being a little disappointed because we had loved the Top of the Rock, but we were blown away ! The different viewpoints offered by the SUMMIT are just crazy. It’s a feast for the eyes and you don’t know where to look. This new observatory offers a unique experience with its glass room, the one filled with silver balloons and its terrace! Despite the fairly high price (from €43/adult and €37/child) , this is the New York observatory not to be missed ! For the moment, entrance tickets for the SUMMIT are not part of any tourist pass.

We recommend going there at 9am when it opens to be able to enjoy the place without the crowds. The SUMMIT is a very popular place that can get crowded quickly!

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WALK IN THE MIDTOWN DISTRICT

After having feasted our eyes, we set off to explore Midtown, the heart of Manhattan. We passed by the Rockfeller Center where you will find the famous ice rink from October to March. At the corner of 5th Avenue and 50th Street, opposite the Rockfeller Center, is St. Patrick’s Cathedral  whose architecture contrasts with the surrounding buildings.

Day 2: Exploring Manhattan’s Hidden Gems

 HIGH LINE, LITTLE ISLAND & CHELSEA

On this second day, head to the new Manhattan neighborhood:  Hudson Yards  to admire the  Vessel . We join the High Line , which is near the Vessel, for a morning stroll. This former elevated railway line has been rehabilitated into a 2.3 km long green promenade. This park is very pleasant with its benches, greenery, street art and its perspective on the Chelsea  and  Meatpacking District neighborhoods . The High Line is a haven of peace in the heart of Manhattan and it is a must for a first visit to New York.

At the end of the High Line is Little Island , a brand new park on stilts. Its design is quite astonishing and forms a floating leaf on the Hudson River.

Our green walk ends with a coffee break at the Starbucks Reserve Roastery in Chelsea before discovering the Chelsea Market . This former biscuit factory (including the famous Oreo cakes) is now a covered market with a very industrial style. This market has around forty shops. You can go shopping, come and eat or buy food to take away.

GREENWICH VILLAGE

Our discovery of the southern part of Manhattan continues with the historic district of New York: Greenwich Village , also nicknamed The Village. We fell under the spell of this very quiet residential area which also reminded us of our favorite series. If you pass by there, you can’t miss the Friends building at the intersection of Grove Street and Bedford Street or the apartment of Carrie Bradshaw from the series S*x and the City at 66 Perry Street. We advise you to wander randomly in the streets to taste the intimate atmosphere of this neighborhood.

SOHO & NOLITA

We go down a little further into Lower Manhattan to see the famous cast-iron buildings of the lively and trendy  Soho district. It is in Soho that you will also find the famous bakery of the Frenchman Dominique Ansel where you have to queue to taste a cronut, this original mix between a croissant and a donut.

But it’s lunch time and we’re going to try the best bagel in Manhattan at Sadelle’s . The restaurant is packed and it’s not possible to eat in. So we take a cream cheese and salmon bagel to go. The homemade fish is delicious. At Sadelle’s they do high-end bagels and you’ll have to pay $19 to taste it.

Day 3: Cultural Gems and Natural Wonders

HARLEM

After walking nearly 25 km the day before, on this Sunday morning, we decided to take the subway to go to Harlem. We saved ourselves 8 km of walking and above all we felt like we were living like real New Yorkers! We who are not used to public transport, we found the subway rather easy to use. You just have to enter the right station (Uptown to the North and Downtown to the South) and take the right train (express: which only stops at the big stations) or local (which stops at all the stations).

We begin our visit of Harlem with Hamilton Heights, a historic neighborhood known for its magnificent Brownstones (typical red sandstone houses) and the City College of New York which looks more like a castle than a university. Going back down into Harlem, we walk along St Nicholas Park . It is a very quiet and pleasant place which leads to 125th Street, also known as  Martin Luther King Jr Blvd. We make a mandatory stop at the Apollo Theater . This famous performance hall has seen the greatest artists (Aretha Franklin, Stevie Wonder, Ella Fitzgerald, etc.) whose names are encrusted in the stars of the forecourt.

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CENTRAL PARK

Central Park is truly a unique park with its 341 hectares surrounded by buildings. No need to look for squirrels, here these little rodents are everywhere! We really liked the calming atmosphere of Central Park and its “labyrinth” which leads each time to such different places.

What to see in Central Park?

We started our walk with the Harlem Meer, an artificial lake located in the North East of Central Park. Then we sat down for a moment on a bench facing Untermyer Fountain whose sculptures represent three dancing ladies. We came across many runners around the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir, the largest pond in Central Park with an incredible view of the buildings. Then we stopped for a moment at Belvedere Castle , a surprising medieval castle in the middle of Central Park but which offers a very pretty view.

 HUDSON RIVER CRUISE

During our family trip to New York, we absolutely had to do the Harbor Lights night cruise that we had loved 5 years earlier. The Circle Line boat leaves from Pier 83 at 7pm in the evening. Its route on the Hudson River allows you to admire the most beautiful monuments of New York and pass under the most emblematic bridges.

We settle in at the back of the boat in the center on the outdoor terrace. And believe us this place was just perfect to fully enjoy this cruise! If we are lucky with the weather the cruise starts at sunset and ends on a fully illuminated skyline. 

Then we approach the Statue of Liberty that we have not seen since our arrival. I can’t explain it but at that moment we felt a lot of emotion. Everything that we had been dreaming about for so long is right there in front of our eyes and it’s almost unreal. The boat takes a long break right in front of the most famous monument in the United States. We are simply amazed! It will be one of the most magical experiences of our stay!

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3 days in London with family: what to see? what to do?

For the first time, we went to London for 3 days as a family . For this getaway, we organized our program around the must-see and must-do things and free visits. Follow our itinerary and our good addresses to discover London for a long weekend with the family!

Itinerary idea for 3 days in London with the family 

Here is our rather sporty itinerary to visit the must-see places in London in 3 days . Of course, if you like to take your time and stroll, this itinerary will surely be too busy. On the other hand, it will allow you to see as much as possible by combining walking and the metro! Otherwise, you could take inspiration from it or adapt it for your 3 days in London with your family.

DAY 1: THE CITY & SOUTH BANK

We began our discovery of London in the City district where our hotel was located, which we talk about at the end of the article.

THE GARDEN AT 120

3 days in London with family

Located in the City district, this garden on the roof of an office building is still not very touristy and above all free ! It is accessed by 2 elevators after passing a security check. Once on the 15th floor, this green rooftop offers a superb view of the city’s skyscrapers. You can admire for example the Sy Garden or the Gherkin.

Open Tuesday to Friday from 10am to 9pm and weekends from 10am to 5pm (in summer). The venue is sometimes privatized so check the times on The Garden at 120 website. 

LEADENHALL MARKET

In the City district, very close to the buildings, is the Leadenhall Market, one of the oldest markets in London. This covered market houses cafes, restaurants and shops. But beyond that, what charmed us the most was its architecture! As you walk through its gallery, you can admire magnificent facades with arcades and glass roofs.

THE SKY GARDEN

Much better known than The Garden at 120, the Sky Garden has become a must-see place! It has a superb rooftop located at 20 Fenchurch Street in the heart of the City. Besides its garden (not as lush as you might imagine), people mainly come for its panoramic view . And we can say that from the 37th floor of this building, the panorama is truly exceptional. You can see the emblematic places of London such as the Tower Bridge, the Shard, the London Eye and St. Paul’s Cathedral.

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ST DUSTAN IN THE EAST CHURCH

Continuing our discovery of the City, we stop at St Dustan in the East. Located in the heart of the ruins of an old 12th century church, this garden is a haven of peace. This green corner allows you to take a little break not far from the hustle and bustle of London.

TATE MODERN

The rain having invited itself during our first day in London, we went to shelter at the Tate Modern. This contemporary art museum is located in Bankside on the right bank of the Thames. We recommend it if you are a fan of modern art. It is not necessarily the art form that we prefer, so we did not linger there!

Free entry without reservation, open every day from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

BOROUGH MARKET

After our visit to the Tate Modern, we went to see the largest and oldest food market in the city. This is good because visiting London makes you hungry, so what could be better than trying street food ?! In this colorful market with a thousand flavors, there are stands offering cuisine from all over the world. It’s a really nice place to eat on the go and the kids love it!

Open Monday to Thursday from 10am to 5pm. Friday from 10am to 6pm and Saturday from 8am to 5pm.

TOWER BRIDGE

It is impossible to come to London without crossing its most famous bridge : the Tower Bridge. You will not be alone on this emblematic bridge but I find it much more beautiful from afar! So whether on the south bank or the north bank of the Thames, you will find many places where you can admire it day or night.

DAY 2: WESTMINSTER, SOHO & COVENT GARDEN

On the program for our second day in London: visit to the historic district and shopping session!

BUCKINGHAM PALACE, SAINT JAMES’S PARK & TRAFALGAR SQUARE

We arrived at Buckingham Palace around 10:30 am, which is the official residence of the King of England. We absolutely wanted the children to attend the famous and traditional changing of the guard . It is an event that attracts a lot of tourists and the gates of the Palace are very quickly black with people. Unfortunately, that day, the changing of the guard was cancelled probably because when we arrived, London was preparing for the coronation of the king which was taking place a week later. So, we took advantage of this time saved to take a little walk in Saint James’s Park , the oldest royal park. Then we went back up The Mall to reach Trafalgar Square, both closed due to upcoming festivities.

LEICESTER SQUARE & PICCADILLY CIRCUS

We continue our morning stroll by going to Leicester Square . In this London district of the West End there are two stores to discover with the family: the  M&M’S World London  and the  Lego Store . Needless to say, it’s a hit with both young and old!

Then it is impossible to come to London without taking a trip to Piccadilly Circus . With its illuminated screens , this very lively square has a little air of Times Square . Around its square and its fountain, there are many cinemas, theaters, restaurants and shops.

REGENT STREET & SOHO 

In London, there is a great place to go shopping, it’s Regent Street, one of the most famous shopping streets in London. And to please the children, there was no way we were going to miss Hamley’s , the oldest and largest toy store in the world with no less than 7 floors. Of course, we left with a royal guard bear plush toy stamped Hamley’s and named Charles by Miss E. 8 years old!

Close to Regent Street, we discover Soho and particularly the famous Carnaby Street . There are as many small boutiques as there are big fashion brands. At Christmas, this street is richly decorated!

Then a little further back from the street, is Kingly Court where we stopped to eat a bite. Around this inner courtyard, there are small restaurants with different flavors (pizza, Mexican, Japanese, Indian, etc.). There is something for everyone. It is a very pleasant place for a little taste break!

BRITISH MUSEUM

This museum of history and human culture, which is the oldest in the world, was on the program of our 3 days in London with the family. Located in the center of London in the Bloomsbury district, it has more than 7 million objects (Egypt, Greece, etc.). The British Museum attracts many visitors every year. It would seem to be very interesting to visit (and very large too). But unfortunately, due to a strike, the museum was forced to close its doors on the day of our visit.

Finally, this “non-visit” allowed us to take the time to stroll through the streets of London!

DAY 3: FROM CAMDEN TOWN TO KENSINGTON

Heading north of London for this last day in the English capital!

CAMDEN TOWN

Located in the north of London, Camden Town is a surprising and unusual district that attracts many tourists. Famous for its markets and extravagant shop fronts, it has long been considered the punk, rock and alternative district of the city. This is where the singer Amy Winehouse lived!

As soon as you get off the metro, you arrive on  Camden High Street , the main street, with the impression of being somewhere other than London! This area is definitely worth a visit and deserves a few hours of time when you spend 3 days in London with your family.

Then we got away from the crowds to take a nice walk along the Regent’s Canal. By the way, you can even take a  boat trip on the Camden Lock .

PRIMROSE HILL & REGENT’S PARK

We radically change the setting by going to Primrose Hill, a chic district of London yet so close to Camden. The pastel facades of the houses and the calm that reigns there make Primrose Hill a truly charming place.

On  Primrose Hill  (78 metres high), you will have a nice view of the whole city. It is also a nice park where it is good to sit down when the weather is nice to take the time to have a picnic!

Next to Primrose Hill, there is a very nice walk to do in  Regent’s Park , one of the royal parks, where  London Zoo is located . Note that the park has an outer circular path (Outer Line) and an inner path (Inner Circle). GPS error or misunderstanding, but we ended up going along Regent’s Park by the outer path which is much longer. The walk along the canal is nice but we recommend the inner path which surrounds the Queen Mary gardens .