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London comes alive after dark thanks to its vibrant and diverse nightlife. The Big Smoke is truly a city that never sleeps, with residents and tourists seeking out the hottest hangouts.

From bustling bars and world-class clubs to intimate theatres and late-night food markets, the United Kingdom’s capital offers a range of nighttime experiences.

If you are headed for a night out in London, you will need to decide what to do and where to go. In this guide to London nightlife, we will take you on a journey through some of the city’s most iconic and offbeat nighttime attractions, ensuring you make the most of your evenings in this dynamic metropolis.

1. Pub Culture

London’s pub culture is legendary, and no visit to the city is complete without a pint of real ale in a traditional British pub. These cosy establishments are scattered throughout the city, each with its unique charm. Explore historic pubs like Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese or enjoy contemporary cocktails at trendy venues like The Cocktail Trading Co. There are a variety of pub tours that provide a fun and informative way to explore the city’s rich beer culture and history.

These tours typically take participants on a guided journey through some of the city’s most iconic and historic pubs, sharing stories, anecdotes, and insights about the city’s drinking traditions. There are different types of pub tours to choose from. Some focus on specific themes like literary pubs (e.g., those frequented by Charles Dickens or Sir Arthur Conan Doyle) or historic pub crawls in specific neighbourhoods like Soho or the East End.

2. West End Shows

For a touch of sophistication, head to London’s West End, home to some of the world’s finest theatres. Catching a musical or play here is an experience like no other. Whether it is timeless classics like “The Phantom of the Opera” or newer productions like “Hamilton,” the West End offers a captivating theatrical night out.

Due to the popularity of West End shows, you should always book tickets well in advance. The prices of shows can be high, so make sure you buy your tickets early. One unforgettable part of seeing a West End show is meeting the cast. You can go to the stage door and potentially meet, take pictures with, and get autographs from the actors.

3. Nightclubs

London is a global hub for electronic music and nightlife. World-renowned clubs like Fabric, Ministry of Sound, and Printworks host top DJs and unforgettable parties. Whether you’re into techno, house, or drum and bass, the city’s club scene caters to all tastes and dance preferences. London is home to a wide variety of themed and unique nightclubs.

From underground basements and converted warehouses to opulent venues with historical charm, there’s something to suit every taste. London’s nightlife scene occasionally attracts celebrities, so you might have a chance encounter with a famous face during your night out.

Many London nightclubs stay open well into the early hours of the morning, allowing you to continue the party until dawn. It’s a city that truly never sleeps when it comes to nightlife.

4. Comedy Clubs

London is home to the United Kingdom’s best comedy clubs. You will find top-rated comedians appearing at clubs around the city, including at the Comedy Carnival. If you are looking for something a bit different, then visit a London comedy club, where you will be treated to a night full of laughs. London’s comedy scene is vibrant, with clubs to suit various tastes and preferences. Be sure to check the schedules and book tickets in advance if you plan to attend a comedy show in London, as these venues can sell out in advance.

5. Late-Night Food Markets

London’s diverse food scene doesn’t stop when the sun sets. Explore night markets like Borough Market and Street Feast, where you can savour dishes from around the world. Enjoy gourmet burgers, fusion cuisine, and delectable desserts under the twinkling lights. London’s late-night food markets showcase a wide range of cuisines and dishes from around the world.

Whether you are craving international street food, gourmet bites, or sweet treats, you’ll find a diverse array of options to satisfy your palate. Food markets are often communal spaces where people gather to eat, chat, and socialise. It’s a great opportunity to meet locals and fellow travellers, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie.

6. Live Music

If live music is your passion, London has a vibrant scene that spans genres. Iconic venues like the Royal Albert Hall, The O2, and the intimate Jazz Café host concerts by renowned artists and emerging talents. Immerse yourself in the rhythm and energy of London’s live music venues.

London boasts a rich and diverse musical landscape, with venues and events featuring everything from classical music and opera to rock, pop, hip-hop, electronic dance music (EDM), jazz, and world music. Whatever your musical preference, you’re likely to find it in London. The city’s nightlife is known for its vibrant club scene and electronic music culture. Renowned clubs like Fabric, Ministry of Sound, and Printworks host top DJs and electronic music events.

7. Rooftop Bars

For stunning views of the city at night, head to one of London’s rooftop bars. London’s skyline is dotted with iconic landmarks, and rooftop bars provide some of the best vantage points to take in these breathtaking views. Enjoy a 360-degree panorama of the city, with sights like the Shard, the London Eye, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the River Thames are often visible. Sip cocktails and gaze at the twinkling skyline from venues like Sushisamba, Frank’s Café, or the Sky Garden. These elevated spots offer a unique perspective on London’s nighttime charm.

8. Alternative Nightlife

Beyond the mainstream, London’s alternative nightlife thrives. Experience immersive theatre at venues like The Vaults or explore the underground party scene at events like Secret Cinema. London’s creative subculture shines brightest after dark.

London’s nightlife is a dynamic tapestry of experiences, with something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re sipping a pint in a centuries-old pub, dancing the night away in a world-class nightclub, or savouring global flavours in a night market, the city offers a diverse range of options.

Nestled in the heart of Italy’s Campania region, the Amalfi Coast is a 50-kilometre stretch of coastline known for its picturesque landscapes, vibrant culture, and, most importantly, thrilling adventures. For travellers seeking excitement and exploration, there is an array of Things to Do in Amalfi Coast, promising unforgettable experiences against the backdrop of this stunning destination.

While many are drawn to this UNESCO World Heritage site for its stunning beauty and culinary delights, adventure seekers will find a plethora of activities that will satisfy their thirst for excitement.

Here are the five best adventurous things to do in the Amalfi Coast.

1. Hiking the Path of the Gods

The Amalfi Coast is not just about serene beaches and quaint towns; it’s also home to some of the most breathtaking hiking trails in Italy. The Path of the Gods, locally known as “Sentiero degli Dei,” is a must-do for any hiker. This legendary trail offers panoramic views of the coastline and the Tyrrhenian Sea making it a must-have trail for any hiking tour on the Amalfi Coast.

Spanning about 7 kilometres, the path takes you through lush landscapes, terraced vineyards, and ancient ruins. Starting from the town of Agerola and ending in Positano, the hike is moderately challenging but rewards you with some of the most spectacular vistas. Remember to wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water, as the Mediterranean sun can be quite intense.

2. Kayaking and Exploring Sea Caves

The crystal-clear waters of the Amalfi Coast are perfect for kayaking. Paddle along the coastline and discover hidden beaches, secluded coves, and dramatic sea caves. One of the highlights is the Emerald Grotto (Grotta dello Smeraldo), known for its emerald-hued waters and stunning stalactites and stalagmites.

Kayaking tours often start from the main beaches and provide a unique perspective of the coast’s rugged beauty. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced kayaker, exploring the Amalfi Coast from the water is an exhilarating experience. Plus, it’s a great way to escape the crowds and find your slice of paradise.

3. Cliff Jumping and Deep Water Soloing

For the adrenaline junkies, cliff jumping and deep water soloing (DWS) are thrilling activities that the Amalfi Coast offers. The coastline is dotted with cliffs of varying heights, making it a popular spot for these extreme sports.

Deep water soloing is a form of rock climbing performed over water, providing the ultimate thrill as you climb without ropes or harnesses. The clear waters below offer a safe landing for those who dare to take the plunge. Always ensure you’re in a safe area for cliff jumping and DWS, and if possible, join a guided tour for the best and safest experience.

4. Paragliding Over the Coastline

Imagine soaring like a bird over the Amalfi Coast, with panoramic views of the azure sea, rugged cliffs, and charming coastal towns. Paragliding offers an unparalleled adventure and a unique way to experience the beauty of this region.

Flights typically take off from the higher altitudes of the surrounding hills and are guided by experienced instructors, ensuring a safe and memorable experience. Feel the rush of the wind and the thrill of the height as you glide peacefully over one of the most beautiful landscapes in the world.

5. Scuba Diving and Snorkeling

The waters of the Amalfi Coast are not just beautiful from above; they’re also teeming with life beneath the surface. The area offers excellent opportunities for scuba diving and snorkelling, with a variety of dive sites suitable for all levels.

Explore underwater caves, vibrant coral reefs, and even sunken ruins. The marine life is diverse, with a chance to see colourful fish, octopuses, and, if you’re lucky, some larger marine mammals. Dive shops are available in most towns along the coast, offering equipment rentals and guided dives.

Conclusion

The Amalfi Coast is a treasure trove of adventures, offering activities that cater to all levels of thrill-seekers. From hiking ancient trails and kayaking in azure waters to cliff jumping, paragliding, and exploring the underwater world, there’s no shortage of excitement. Each activity not only provides an adrenaline rush but also a unique perspective of the coast’s stunning beauty.

As you plan your adventure-filled trip to the Amalfi Coast, remember to respect the natural environment and local regulations to ensure these beautiful spots can be enjoyed for generations to come. Whether you’re soaring above the coastline or exploring its hidden underwater treasures, there are countless Things to Do in the Amalfi Coast that promise unforgettable experiences.

If you plan to spend your October vacation in Sri Lanka, you’ll need to plan it carefully because October and November are the months of the north-east monsoon’s arrival. This particular monsoon season is the trickiest because it’s unpredictable. However, it’s actually a good thing as you might get lucky and it won’t hit any of the best parts of the country at all. And even if it does come, you will be able to enjoy your time in Sri Lanka if you visit the following places in October.

Diwali: Festival of Lights

During the months of October and November, the Tamil Hindus of Sri Lanka celebrate Diwali (Deepavali), better known to Westerners as the Festival of Lights. The bulk of the festivities takes place in Colombo, but, as Geetha Mohan says to India Today, all Hindu communities in the country have celebrations of their own. So, a traveler can enjoy a wide range of experiences from modern city festival to authentic rural celebrations.

The festival happens even in spite of the rain, so you’ll be able to enjoy a show of firecrackers in some form no matter the weather. This is one of the most celebrated festivals in the region and definitely one of the most amazing experiences you can enjoy when traveling to Sri Lanka. This is a celebration filled with happiness and laughter, so be sure to plan your trip so you can arrive to the country in time to witness it.

Yala National Park

There are many national parks in Sri Lanka where you can admire the glory of the country’s nature. All of them are amazing and all of them are worth a visit if you can manage it. However, as says Samadhi, who is an experienced guide and helps design T2 Travels Sri Lanka packages, Yala National Park is the best place to visit for diversity. And she also stresses how October is one of the best times to see it because there won’t be any crowds to spoil your exploration of the fantastic wildlife sanctuary.

During this season, Yala is, probably, the only park you should visit because the weather should be quite good there. The off-season prices will also make accommodation and entertainment more affordable around this tourist “hotspot”.

Arugam Bay

If you are coming to Sri Lanka for the beaches, the best place in October is Arugam Bay, writes a backpacker Job for Enjoy Berlin. Here the risk of rain ruining your beach time is the lowest. Also, you get to enjoy one of the best surfing spots in the country.

This is a fantastic place for relaxation and digital detox. You can spend the whole vacation just lying on beautiful beaches, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and enjoying delicious local foods. The people around you will be just as relaxed, which makes for a great time all around.

Tea Estates of Uva

Uva is a remote part of Sri Lanka, where the majority of local tea comes from. And October just happens to be one of the best times to visit it and enjoy all this beauty and wealth of aromas and tea flavors.

There are many gorgeous tea estates you can visit and even stay at. Come here to learn about the journey one of the world’s most favorite drinks takes. Tea plantations are a sight to behold, and you definitely should try as many versions of the magic drink as you can manage. Each will be special and you’ll go back home with a suitcase full of some of the best teas on the planet.

All in all, Sri Lanka in October is quieter due to having fewer tourists, but all the more charming because of it. You still have the chance to have fun at the beaches, but also get more opportunities to explore the country without crowds.

If you are looking to shed stress, eat clean and chill out then retreat to the secluded, less commercial south side of Mauritius for a rejuvenating wellness break at Anantara Iko Resort. With powder white sandy beaches and lush tropical landscapes, guests seeking the ultimate wellness escape can take their foot of the gas, switch off and relax by taking full advantage of the three- and five-day wellness experiences.
This tranquil resort is located on the authentic, untouched southeast coast of the island which is a million miles away from the west coast where you’ll find back to back resorts and street vendors. Here the vibe is laid-back and serene, surrounded by the ocean and nature it’s the perfect place for weary travellers to unwind.

Inspired by nature, it has been designed to complement its stunning surroundings by using lots of natural, locally sourced materials around the property. Recycled stone, driftwood and water features set the calm tone and as soon as you arrive at Anantara you feel the pace of life slowing down.

The new wellness programmes use restorative Ayurveda treatments alongside local ingredients such as Tamarin salt from the village on the western coast and spices including turmeric and ginger. Self-healing, restoration, improved energy flow and calming rituals are the foundation of each wellness package, created with health and wellbeing conscientious travellers in mind.
The five-day wellness programme incorporates the following treatments:

Day 1:

Start the day with a traditional Tai Chi session to connect the body and mind. This moving meditation enhances muscular strength, joint flexibility, calms the senses and soothes the soul.
Supporting the actions and benefits of Tai Chi, a restorative 90-minute Ayurveda massage follows. Benefits of Ayurvedic massages include: improved blood circulation to help blood reach nerve endings, toning of muscles, calming the brain and body, lubricating and strengthening joints, increased mental alertness.

Day 2:

Known for its self-healing benefits, the touch therapy of Abhyanga massage aims to balance dosha types using oils mixed with herbs for maximum benefits which stimulate the nervous system, enhance coordination between sensory organs, while strengthening muscles. This massage supports healing, boosts energy, reduces recovery time after an injury, eases pain, and enhances relaxation, mood, and wellbeing.

Day 3:

The ancient self-healing practice of Qi Gong creates a calmness of the mind while powering the body with movements that improve joint flexibility and muscle strength. Qi Gong also supports balance and harmony within the body, improves digestion, and can be an effective treatment for insomnia and many other sleep disorders.

Day 4:

The Ayurvedic therapy Shirodhara, which is a Sanskrit word coming from shro (head) and dhara (flow), involves gently pouring herbal oils over the forehead. This is ideal for those with a vata-pitta imbalance as it can harmonise the body’s energy, awaken intuition, improve memory, support sleep, focus attention and improve concentration.

Day 5:

Round up the five-day programme with a choice of Tai Chi or Qi Gong to absorb and reinforce the full benefits of the wellness programme. Through moving meditation, you maximise the calming effects on the mind and physical benefits to the body.

Embrace the outstanding views of Le Chaland Beach and nourish your body with fresh, organic, vegan cuisine at Bon Manzer restaurant. This clean-eating restaurant will inject some joy and flavour into your palate. There’s an extensive offer of healthy dishes, all freshly prepared in front of you, using local, sustainable produce. Choose from wheat- and gluten-free options, as well as low-calorie wines, raw foods and nutritious smoothies and juices.

The stylish, contemporary, island-chic resort offers a range of activities outside of the programme so you can continue your wellness journey. Take a bike ride along the stunning, unspoilt coastline, soak up the sapphire hues of the ocean with a beach walk or if you‘d rather take some time out to relax then make the most of the hotel’s 30-metre ozone-based swimming pool, one of the many sustainability initiatives at the property.

Each of the 164 stylish rooms and suites are spacious and sophisticated with clean lines and minimal décor enhanced with a splash of ocean blue and wood making it feel relaxing and calm. Start your day taking in the views of the Indian Ocean or flourishing tropical gardens direct from your day bed on the balcony. Just 100m from the beach and with an array of facilities to help you dial it down a notch, Anantara is the ultimate chill out destination.
A room at Anantara Iko Mauritius starts from £335 per room per night on a half board basis. Wellness packages start at £330.
www.anantara.com/en/iko-mauritius

Here at HOC we love a holiday and, we love a fact. Fact! So if you’re looking to escape the UK during the rest of October – seeing as we’re full blown in the midst of a beautiful but albeit chilly autumn – then we’ve got some interesting stats for you to consider!

Consumer flight search data by trusted holiday price comparison website, dealchecker, reveals the top ten destinations Brits will be heading to this October half-term, with Dubai, Barcelona and New York on the cards for many.

Top 10 holidays destinations, and the average temperature highs in October:

  1. Tenerife 26˚
  2. Dubai 35˚
  3. Alicante 25˚
  4. Istanbul 20˚
  5. Faro 23˚
  6. Barcelona 23˚
  7. New York 18˚
  8. Fuerteventura 24˚
  9. Gran Canaria 21˚
  10. Lanzarote 26˚

Rosie Panter, travel expert at dealchecker commented: “The October half-term is often seen by many to be the last chance for sun before the winter months set in, and it’s clear from the flight search data captured that this is still the case.

Destinations such as Dubai remain popular with those looking for slightly shorter breaks of between four and five nights, while holiday hot spots in Spain, Portugal and Turkey offer great week-long all-inclusive holidays. Meanwhile New York makes for a great city to visit in the run up to Halloween and Thanksgiving, with lots of festivities for families to get involved in, along with a little pre-Christmas shopping and sightseeing.”

Do you have plans to visit any of the list above? If so, we’d love to hear about it!

Image credit: Pinterest: Hand Luggage Only, Pinterest: Hand Luggage Only, Pinterest: TheFab20s

It’s a long way off yet, but the rumble of the World Cup is never too far away, and the convoy of FIFA fans expected to descend on the buzzing desert metropolises of Doha is enough to accelerate booking plans far in advance. Where to say then, to enjoy the buzz of the games and easily explore this rich desert city? Split between the old Arabia and the new, the several hotels owned by Tivoli across Doha offer ample accommodation for all tastes and budgets.

Souq Al Wakra Hotel Qatar

For those hoping to blend FIFA excitement with a slice of holiday relaxation in the city’s 30-degree winter heat, Souq Al Wakra Hotel by Tivoli is located in the up-an-coming seaside district of Al Wakra.

Located 10 minutes from Hamad International Airport and 20 minutes from central Doha, the hotel is far enough to escape the hordes of football fans but close enough to easily jump into the action. A slick renovation of 17th century heritage buildings, the 101 room complex maintains the original architectural features built by local fishermen and pearl divers from way back when.

Terracotta walls, ambient fountains and minimalist interiors ooze a simple beachy vibe. Though rooms are small due to the structure of the old fishing huts that once stood here, the space is used effectively, with larger suites formed from interconnecting rooms. The surrounding area boasts a beachfront promenade peppered with restaurants, leading to the labyrinth of market stalls within the local Souq – perfect for glimpsing the essence of Qatari life outside of the city.

Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels

For guests yearning to be right in the thick of it, Souq Waqif – Doha’s most famous marketplace gives way to a warren of Tivoli’s boutique hotels that in many ways feel more like an opulent Arabic home than a hotel. Personal touches and rich interiors blend with the ever-present aroma of the Arabic coffee and sweet dates presented to every guest to roll off the street, and into any one of the nine hotel lobby’s peppered through the cobbled streets of the Souq.

Facilities are peppered throughout the hotels; the luxurious spa at Al Jasra boasts Doha’s only Moroccan hammam experience, while Al Mirqab is home to the Souq’s only outdoor swimming pool – available to all guests, whichever hotel you’re staying in. Guests can choose from six restaurants, offering a mixture of Indian, Moroccan and Lebanese cuisines amidst rooftop views and opulent dining spaces.

La Piazza at Al Bidda houses the breakfast buffet for all Tivoli hotel guests, where classic continentals and authentic local specialties sit side-by-side, below an azure glass ceiling which glints in the morning sun. Al Shurfa restaurant at Al Jomrok Hotel is the perfect place in old town for a rooftop dining experience. Overlooking Doha’s imposing skyline, the terrace is most beautiful at sunset over platters of hot mezze and Arabic coffee, while its indoor rooftop lounge is a popular shisha haunt for locals and guests alike.

Al Najada

Located in the heart of central Souq Al Najada, the 151 roomed hotel stands as a vast Arabian sanctuary. The lobby boasts high ceilings and immediate indulgence, blending traditional architecture with a contemporary colour palate.

With 3 restaurants, a swimming pool area (and pool bar), fitness centre and an elegant ballroom to boot, Al Najada is particularly popular with European guests for high quality amenities and easy access to the city’s attractions.

Al Baraha Restaurant offers a sprawling daily breakfast buffet, where guests can drink coffee al fresco on the Italian style piazza. Missan is the hotel’s newest addition – a mesmerizing dessert-only restaurant featuring the sweetest gastronomic experiences in the city.

I know it seems shocking to say this, but this is a very serious topic. Traveling has many benefits, whether they’re psychological or physical, it doesn’t matter. There’s generally a shit load of reasons why traveling is essential for a happy head and a happy life. And today we’re going to go through some of them, so if you’re interested in that, you should probably read this article all the way to the end. Let us begin.

Well, the first benefit and the most important one is better health, obviously. I mean, it has been proven that traveling reduces stress and also prevents you from getting heart diseases. This is the first thing that you need to be careful about. When you travel around the world, or even within your state, you’ll see numerous new ideas that’ll relax you and give you back that childhood excitement. Another thing that is also important is that when you travel, you basically get a whole new level of appreciation for your own home as well. When you educate yourself about new things, and when you change the scenery, you tend to disconnect from your regular life, which is pretty amazing and beneficial. There’s no work, and there are no dishes, no chores, no anything when you travel. You can just relax and live in the present moment, which is a great thing.

And to think that all of that comes with getting to know different places and cultures. When you travel, you tend to meet new people. Which not only expands your general social circle, it also lets you learn some valuable lessons about how other people live. That’s how you become more educated and how you also become a more interesting person as well. So, traveling basically has every single benefit that is the most important in human history ever.And it’s funny as well. Sometimes you’ll learn valuable information, like how to survive in different conditions, or some fun facts! And sometimes you can stumble upon the stupidest things ever made. You can even see explicit content specially made in that country! Like Amanda Cerny nude photos that are currently poppin’, and from then on, you can evolve to different sites. Like MrPornGeek, for example. He provides the best porn sites, games, and articles ever. Basically, you can see whatever you want to see.

That’s why it’s essential to move around and visit various places. And it’s best to try and do it while you’re young and still have a lot of energy. If you want to climb those mountains, and you want to see those jungles, streets, cafes, and whatever else you can think of, you’ll need the energy. So, if you can, try to gather the money right away and save for a nice trip, because it’s better to spend it on a good trip than on literally anything else. Enjoy your flights and rides as well.

Walking along the busy thoroughfare of the Imperial Kasbah quarter — right by the main tourist attraction of Saadien’s Tombs — you wouldn’t guess that you’d be walking past one of the city’s most luxurious hotels, the La Sultana Marrakech.

Marrakech is an aesthetic dream but there is so much more to this magical city than meets the eye. Once you enter the arched Bab Agnaou gates of the old city, you are immediately bombarded with a visceral plethora of sights, sounds, and smells. It is as exhilarating as it is exotic, and once you get to the heart of the Medina, it becomes clear that this city functions on a set of rules that is unique to anywhere else in the world.
From the outside looking in, you’d wrongly assume that the La Sultana Marrakech would be just another Riad, once inside however, and you’d immediately see that you were mistaken. One step into the hotel’s lamp-lit gilded alleyway and you are instantly transported to a time of sultans and princesses. Instantly enveloped in an air of opulence and luxury that will embrace you until check-out.

Inside, you are led through an arched hallway that opens up to the hotel’s grand courtyard. The awe-inspiring space is home to the hotel’s heated outdoor pool and also serves as the breakfast area and as one of the hotel’s dinner venues. It is filled with a myriad of tropical flora and opens up to a large seemingly open-space skylight which draws just the right amount of sunshine in.
The hotel is divided into five riads, the brick-covered Riad Almohad which is housed in the main courtyard, the pink byzantine-style Riad Scheherazade, the Riad Saadia, Riad Sabaa, and the Riad Bahia where we stayed. The hotel has 28 bedrooms and suites, and each one is a reflection of various historical motifs that work to stunning effect. The golden bathrooms are a thing of glory, and it is almost impossible to resist spending an evening enjoying a relaxing bath in this beautiful space.

We had dinner poolside at La Table La Sultana, as a ‘sintir’ player serenaded us in the background. Diners at La Sultana are spoiled for choice and have the option to choose from its French or Moroccan menus. The hotel has a philosophy of ‘Terroir Cuisine’ which showcases 100% locally sourced organic ingredients, and you can certainly taste the difference.
The staff at La Sultana are absolutely faultless. From the moment you check-in, when you are greeted with Moroccan mint tea and dates on the roof, to check-out when you are given a little gift to send you on your way, the staff make you feel like royalty. If you ever get the chance to visit La Sultana, we can assure you, it’ll be an experience unlike anything else in the world.

We arrived at San Jose airport at dusk and spent the two-hour drive to Lazy Z Resort in winding darkness. When the sun peaked through our cabin’s curtains the following morning, I was up and out, breathing in the forest and marvelling at a herd of startled, galloping deer. It was as though I’d stepped into Narnia’s wardrobe; London felt very far away.

Where to Stay: Lazy Z Resort

Lazy Z, nestled in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, is as much loved by Californians escaping to the national forests and parks for their annual family vacation, as it is for jet-setters seeking an off-the-beaten-track experience. The hideaway offers 13 cabins and cottages, a pool edged with waterfalls (that send you into a meditative state), and a model American clubhouse. Staying here situates you nicely between Tuolumne County’s stunning Stanislaus National Forest and historic Gold Rush towns, Alicia’s Sugar Shack and Cover’s Apple Ranch (drool below), and leads you quietly into Yosemite National Park, free from crowds driving straight from San Francisco.

  • Overnight stay at Lazy Z Resort($140-$285 per night depending on cabin size)

Where to Eat: Alicia’s Sugar Shack

“It’s Just A Coffee House Made Out of Wood, Espresso Coffee Tastes’ Mighty Good!”

A 10-minute cruise down Highway 108 into Sugarpine will land you at Alicia’s Sugar Shack. Alicia, one of the friendliest people on the mountain, lures in hungry nature-lovers about to embark on a day of outdoor activity, as well as a troop of loyal locals. The smell of freshly baked handmade pastries and brewed Italian coffee fills the shack and makes you feel at home.

The menu is a hearty balance of sweet and savoury. I opted for the Açai Bowl with all the toppings, and others dove into the Eggs and Bacon, the Breakfast Burrito (winner), and as a table, we shared the Biscuits and Gravy, a hearty Southern American stick-to-your-ribs kind of dish. Delicious. Alicia candidly toured us around her Italian-equipped kitchen, where she bakes fresh for her cafe as well as for private clients. I had to ask as she bid us farewell with a complimentary bag full of cookies (snickerdoodle, oatmeal, chocolate chip), “Alicia, where do you put it!”, to which she chuckled, “Oh my, I don’t eat it!”. Words of warning for the loyal locals.

What to Do: Kayaking on Pinecrest Lake

A 25-minute drive out of Sugarpine towards Pinecrest Lake allowed our food to digest and kept our claws from grabbing at the cookie bag. Reluctantly, we locked our cameras in the car and made our way to the recreation centre, passing, what I’d like to imagine was a Boy Scout meeting. We wobbled into our kayaks and worked our paddles onto the 300-acre lake, wonderfully fringed with pine trees parted by the occasional vacation cabin. If you own more than one kayak you should consider the best kayak carrier.

The summer sees an influx of locals enjoying the cooler climate of the mountains, 5,600 feet in elevation, but while we were there the lake was calm, warm, and beautifully untouched by other paddles. We swam, chatted, and like snakes, lay on large flat stones soaking up the autumnal sun. If you’re not into kayaking, I’d recommend the 6.5-mile hike to Cleo’s Bath, a gorgeous and secluded swimming hole.

Where to Eat: Cover’s Apple Ranch

We arrived at the perfect moment: apple-picking season. The ranch, family-run for generations, serves breakfast, lunch, afternoon cakes and coffee-on-tap (which our kayaked-out bodies were in the market for). We went for the infamous Mile High Apple Pie and pancakes (we’re on holiday), accompanied by Cover’s homemade apple sauce. The ranch, with its fascinating history of economic boom – Tuolumne County once sold itself as “The land of promise for apple growers” – as well fire-destroying tragedy, continue to:

“perpetuate the long-standing reputation of quality homemade pies, turnover and breads”

They’re certainly doing a great job. When your energy levels are back up, visit the Ranch’s farm, tour the apple cider factory, and take a ride on the mini model steam train that tours visitors around the orchards.

Retreat back to Lazy Z

On the verge of a pie-coma, head back to Lazy Z, chill by the pool and read your book. Your time in Tuolumne County is about to go from kayaking to haunted saloons. Stay tuned for my next post on California’s incredible (and heavily overlooked) Gold Rush towns: Sonora, Jamestown and Groveland.

Plan your trip

Tourist Board

Head to visittuolumne.com

Flights

Nearest airports include San Francisco and San Jose – Tuolumne County is a 2.5-hour drive from there.

British Airways flies from London Heathrow to San Jose from £387 return including taxes/fees/carrier charges.

To book, please visit ba.com or call 0344 493 0122.

Car Hire

Car hire from San Jose with Hertz (starts from £25 a day)

For an epic road trip behind the wheel of an iconic American vehicle, check out Hertz new American Collection

With over a thousand sapphire-shored islands to choose from, Croatia’s coastline is the riviera of central Europe. Fringed by the crystal waters of the Adriatic, its rugged coast is made up of pebble beaches and sandy coves, its islands rich in romantic dalmatian architecture with their pretty walled towns and ancient stone villages with their green shuttered windows. Add fantastic local wine and a bounty of fresh-caught seafood, and it’s little wonder these islands are so popular with visitors. Yet despite numbers growing year on year, this expanse of coastline still boasts some islands that remain relatively under-the-radar – here are #teamcoco’s favourites.

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1. Vis

The furthest island from the mainland, Vis has its remote location to thank for preserving its authentic dalmatian charm. A key outpost in the Adriatic, a strategic location meant that it was off-limits to all foreigners until 1991, as it was used as a Yugoslavian naval base. While the tourism industry has admittedly blossomed since then, this pretty island still has a sense of being caught in time, escaping the over-development that has consumed other destinations. It was this old-world feel that made Vis the ideal setting for Mamma Mia 2, filmed here in 2017. The historic tumbledown old town of Kut, with its creamy stone, cobbled streets and bursts of bougainvillaea and the fishing boat filled harbour making a picture-perfect backdrop.

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2. Brač

Brač (pronounced brach) boasts a more rugged beauty than other islands. With its soaring rocky outcrops and carpets of green olive groves clinging to the slopes, it is home to the highest peak on the Adriatic islands – Vidova Gora. Despite its proximity to Split, the island tends to be often overlooked in favour of the glitz of Hvar. Yet this less well-trodden island offers an insight into authentic Croatia – from the sleepy capital of Supetar, to the villages and vineyards that dot its interior and the traditional white stone towns and rocky beaches that scatter the coast. The most visited site on the island is Zlatni Rat or Golden Beach, a spit of sand that sticks out into the Adriatic, considered by many to be one of Croatia’s best beaches – it is very crowded in the summer months.

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3. Dugi Otok

Translated as ‘Long Island’ this stretch of land is located off the Dalmatian coast, to the West of Zadar. Arguably one of Croatia’s best-kept secrets, the island makes for a more mellow alternative to its more famous sister islands to the south. One side of the island is green with small hamlets scattered along the coast, while the seaward side is made up of rugged cliffs that descend into the ocean below. But the island’s main draw, besides its tranquil nature, is the Telascica Park on its southern tip, with its saltwater swimming lake, pretty wildflowers and walking trails.

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4. Šolta

While the island of Šolta might be one of the closest to Split, tourism on the island has been slower to develop than elsewhere. Although it is developing, the island still revolves predominantly around the historic production of olive oil and its famous honey. With pretty little villages, charming beaches, family-run agriturismo’s where visitors can sample the local olive oil, honey and grappa. With a host of bays accessible only by boat, it’s a paradise for yachties and both its beauty and proximity to the mainland have attracted many second-home owners from Split.

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5. Kolocep Island

At just 20 minutes by boat, Kolocep Island makes for an easy day trip from the city of Dubrovnik. Covered in a forest of dense pine, citrus and olive trees, with only two historic settlements and no cars allowed on the island – an island getaway to this smallest of the Elafiti Islands is like taking a step back in time.

For more information on Croatia visit: https://croatia.hr/en-GB/trip-ideas/Full-life