Travel - House Of Coco Magazine

Adventures October 29, 2020

Wake up here: Crown & Garter, Inkpen, West Berkshire

Staycations are here to stay. The Crown & Garter in idyllic Inkpen near Hungerford, West Berkshire is the perfect spot for a great British getaway, in any season. Crisp country air, long leafy walks and cycle routes with award-winning, wholesome food waiting for you by a fire. This is exactly what we all need after the events of 2020. Come away feeling totally refreshed and rejuvenated without getting on board a plane, or indeed applying any sun cream.

The Crown & Garter has ten stylish rooms, just adjacent to the pub property for a relaxed night sleep, each with plush super king beds. The rooms make for the perfect cosy base to head off on glorious walks nearby. Cobwebs, be gone. Inkpen Common is right next door and contains beautiful and ancient heathland, a myriad of flowers, birds and wildlife. We opted for the ten kilometre walk that begins at Inkpen Common but there are options to go on for even longer. The staff at the Crown & Garter are extremely helpful in recommending routes to help to get the most out of the surrounding countryside and to advise which ramble is best for the specific season. On our arrival back, we enjoyed a well-deserved local ale in the Crown & Garter’s large beer garden in the sun, taking in panoramic views of the Berkshire countryside.

The pub offers fresh, seasonal food and a large selection of drinks from local distilleries, breweries and producers. The wine served is exclusively sourced from small producers in the UK and Europe. Food aficionados will appreciate the Crown & Garter’s commitment to sourcing a large portion of its ingredients locally with the fish served in the restaurant coming from UK coastal waters and rivers. The pub’s menu is small, concise and expertly curated. Mouth-watering starters include the broad bean and pea bruschetta, soused mackerel and mini scotch eggs to have alongside a crisp and cool glass of white wine. The dinner menu includes the hearty British pub classics as well as some superb vegetarian options such as a vegan aubergine and chickpea stew with a homemade flatbread, dukkha and soya yoghurt and lighter bites such as the heritage tomato salad with buffalo mozzarella and a roast carrot and spelt salad. The award-winning pub is part of the Honesty Group, which includes nine coffee shops, a bakery and a cookery school across the Berkshire countryside. As a result of being part of Honesty Group, bread is extremely important to the Crown & Garter. Fresh loaves and rolls are supplied from the pub’s local Honesty Bakery and of course the butter is homemade (and delicious).

The private garden is a tranquil setting where guests can start their day with a newspaper, coffee and a freshly-baked croissant, or a full English of course, before embarking on the day’s activities. Although the Crown & Garter feels like it is tucked away in one of the most glorious and secluded parts of the country, guests are not far away from activities and well-known places to visit. The historic Bombay Sapphire Distillery is in the neighbouring county and nearby lies UNESCO World Heritage Site, Blenheim Palace, making the Crown & Garter well located for visitors wishing to experience some quintessentially British days out.

Bombay Sapphire Distillery

Just thirty minutes away from the Crown & Garter lies Laverstoke Mill and the home of Bombay Sapphire. The extremely knowledgeable staff take visitors on a journey right from the beginning of the brand’s origins to the present day. The history of Laverstoke Mill is recorded as far back as the 1086 Doomsday Book. The Mill has been under the ownership of William the Conqueror, Henry VIII and enjoyed four royal visits, most recently Queen Elizabeth in 1962.

Guests to the Bombay Sapphire Distillery learn about the ten botanicals which make the gin so delicious in the iconic glasshouses designed by Thomas Heatherwick. Guests are then able to configure their own gin flavour profile during a hands on activity that incorporates all the senses. Once the flavour palette is chosen, visitors can match their preferences with a complimentary speciality cocktail that is enjoyed at Mill Bar at the end of the tour.

Blenheim Palace

Great Britain in all its glory. Grand, majestic and seeped full of history. Guests can enjoy the expansive grounds with awe-inspiring views of the property or wander inside and take in centuries of pomp and pageantry. The palace was home to the 12th Duke of Marlborough and his family and was also the birthplace of one of the most famous Britons, Sir Winston Churchill. Grab yourself an audio tour and go back through three hundred years of history or take a ride on the miniature train which runs through the grounds between the palace and the Pleasure Gardens. For the more glamourous ‘staycationer’, sip a glass of Searcys Selected Cuvée Champagne in The Orangery and enjoy Blenheim Palace’s famous Afternoon Tea with delicious cakes, scones, pink rhubarb choux buns and strawberry macarons. What could be a more British ritual.

Until the 3rd January 2021, guests to Blenheim Palace can enjoy a major solo collection by acclaimed British female artist, Cecily Brown. Brown’s works display various stylistic influences from Francisco de Goya and Francis Bacon and the exhibition is the first to be comprised solely of new work created in response to the Palace’s history as an English country estate and as the home to successive generations of the Spencer-Churchill family and their impressive collection of paintings, tapestries and decorative arts.

Holidays within the UK are certainly not going anywhere soon with travellers discovering that there is so much to explore, right on the doorstep. Having stood on the same spot since 1640, we predict we will be seeing more of the Crown & Garter as exploring more locally becomes the order of the day. The staycation at the Crown & Garter was everything a luxurious short break should be and a great place to escape from London or any big city. In the words of Sir Winston Churchill who resided just forty-five minutes away at Blenheim Place, ‘my tastes are simple: I am easily satisfied with the best’.

To book and for more information, see: www.crownandgarter.co.uk

Travel October 26, 2020

Why You Should Sell Your House and Travel the World

Being a homeowner comes with its set of pressures, from land rates and taxes to mortgage payments and insurance. Selling your house and travelling around the world alleviates these pressures and allows you to explore the world as you restructure your finances. However, this is not a decision for the faint-hearted, though; by the end of the article, you may realize, anyone can do it as the gains are immense.

Get Out of Your Comfort Zone

You may be deceived by the concept of ‘stability’ when you own your first home and get that sense of achievement. Still, you’d be surprised that travelling the world could be more cost-effective than servicing a mortgage. In Thailand, for example, you can get a decent meal for $1-3, and that’s eating out! That’s about a tenth of the meal-cost in major cities like Seattle. Also, depending on what you do for work, there are careers that you can do on-the-go. Getting out of your comfort zone opens up new horizons.

Opening Your Mind

The exposure you get when travelling boosts your creativity. You begin to see things you once thought were unreal or impossible. Exposure to new cultures opens your mind, leaving you more fulfilled. Learning new cultures, new languages, and sampling new cuisines opens up perspectives, realizing how much we miss out when confined to one place.

Travel Builds Character

Travelling to new places challenges you in that you have to figure out where to sleep and eat and what sites to see and places to visit. This exposure will increase your organizational skills, and you’ll find new ways to handle challenges. You’ll also be more open-minded to opportunities, and you’ll soon realize you can handle anything. Travel can also teach you to be content in frugality instead of the extravagance you may be used to back home.

Self-Investment over Material Investment

More often than not, we all get caught up in the 9-5 rat race with minimal fulfilment. We work so hard to stuff our houses with the latest technological gadgets and furniture designs.

However, the joy derived from this accumulation of material assets is incomparable to the magical joy you’ll experience when you tour Zhangjiajie National Forest Park in China, which has one of the most extraordinary landscapes globally. Or when you bask in the magical aquamarine castle on a cliff at Lake Bled in Slovenia. Self-investment is way more fulfilling than material-investments, but you can only know this by experiencing it.

Suppose you’re finally ready to take that big step and sell your property to facilitate your travels. In that case, you’ll want to sell your house as quickly as possible, and engaging property cash buyers like WeBuyAnyHome would be a safe bet. They offer a stress-free process that sells your property in a timeframe that suits you, offering the highest guaranteed cash offer. What’s even better, they cover all the costs like evaluations and solicitors, so you’ll have no fees to pay.

Develop a New Perspective on Life

Visiting new places and expanding your knowledge gives you new ideas and a different perspective on life. You will begin to question your preconceived ideas and appreciate life anew as you reboot your mind, body, and soul.

Break the Rules

The norm is to go to work, take a mortgage, and raise your family, right? Well, according to society, it is. But what if you want to enjoy your independence and freedom powerfully? Gain access to the whole world by breaking the rules, selling everything, and travelling the world. Okay, so you may be hesitant and fearful. Why not give it a 3-month trial? Sell a few things and take a trip and see how rejuvenating it is. You may then want to travel long-term.

Gain New Experiences, Unfettered

When you fail to travel, you limit your thinking. If all you’ve been exposed to is fake friendships and failed romances, you begin to think that there’s nothing beautiful about life. Yet, perhaps, across the borders, lies the beginning of the rest of your wonderful life! And with selling all your material possessions, your mind is free to explore, unfettered. There are numerous magnificently scenic places around the world that would make your heart stop.

In Summary

Fill your life with adventures, not things. Have stories to tell, not stuff to show, a perfect slogan that sums it all up.

Dog-friendly October 23, 2020

TeamCocopup: Getting cosy and hunkering down at Higher Wiscombe

TeamCocopup Charlie and doting dog mum Hannah Tan-Gillies are getting cosy and hunkering down at the Higher Wiscombecottages in East Devon for a luxury doggy staycation that won’t get damped by bad weather.

We arrived in Higher Wiscombe late on Friday evening and right on the cusp of Storm Freya’s arrival. After almost four hours of driving through rain and harsh winds — with large chunks spent on the M25 no less — our arrival at the warm and undoubtedly charming Thatched Barn could not have been more perfectly timed.

Higher Wiscombe is a cluster of three, generously-sized, luxury self-catering cottages in the heart of East Devon. It is part of Premier Cottages collection, which features 1,000 four and five-star self-catering cottages all over the UK, from intimate boltholes, to large family-friendly estates, including a wide selection of pet-friendly properties.

Surrounded by rolling hills and just short drive away from the Jurassic Coast, Higher Wiscombe is the perfect spot to hunker down, get cosy, and wait out a storm.

We stayed in the Thatched Barn, which is a sprawling barn conversion for six with three ensuite bathrooms, heated floors, a fully stocked kitchen, outdoor terrace and oodles of charm. The Thatched Barn offers a wealth of contemporary amenities, but unlike other luxury properties, does not sacrifice character in pursuit of modernity. Each room follows a distinctive colour palette with the master suite also equipped with a handsome four poster bed and roll top bath.

On the kitchen counter, we were greeted with a welcome basket filled with a selection of locally-sourced products. TeamCocopup Charlie was greeted with a welcome package of his own, which included a Dicky bag, bio poo bags, and also some treats.

Alistair and Lorna, owners and custodians of Higher Wiscombe, live right next door and will go out of their way to make you feel right at home. They offered us plenty of recommendations on nearby restaurants and dog-friendly things to do – of which there are an abundance. The property is near many supermarkets, and you can even have your groceries delivered straight to your door before arrival.

As storm Freya raged on throughout our stay, we were unable to take a dip in the property’s heated outdoor pool. We did, however, get a private tour of The Winery. The spectacular cottage can sleep up to twenty and is the perfect spot to bring family and friends together for a relaxed weekend getaway or a big celebration. As with many other businesses ravaged by the COVID-19 pandemic, Higher Wiscombe has had to adapt, temporarily halving the Winery to abide by the all-encompassing Rule of Six.

Outside of your cottage, Higher Wiscombe offers 52 acres of private rolling Devon countryside, perfect for long walkies, even in the rain. You can also drive to the nearby coastal towns of Sidmouth and walk along the Jurassic Coast, the quaint mining town of Beer, or take a short drive to Lyme Regis.

Walkie enthusiasts can even access the East Devon Way directly from the property, which leads to a number of picturesque National Trust properties too. And finally, after you and your pooch have spent the day discovering everything that East Devon has to offer and more – there is simply nothing better than returning to the Thatched Barn, putting a log on the burner, and enjoying a nice cuppa. Because as we discovered, a stay at the Higher Wiscombe is truly a wonder, even in the middle of a storm.

A week’s stay in Higher Wiscombe’s Thatched Barn for up to six starts from £895. To book go to www.premiercottages.co.uk or call the owner on 01404 871360. Premier Cottages offers the widest range of accessible properties in the UK with many offering on-site facilities like swimming pools, gyms, spas, indoor games rooms and children’s play areas.

Canada October 22, 2020

An insider’s guide to Toronto: why I fell in love with the city

House of Coco chatted to former Leeds resident Steven Guthrie about upping sticks and moving across the pond to Canada. He tells us why he fell in love with the city he now calls home, plus the inside scoop on the best places in town to see, drink and dine.

Years ago, I’d have laughed if you told me I’d be a Toronto resident. Leeds was my home. I was nicely settled in at my first house; a bricks and mortar manifestation of years of working hard in my role within the NHS. Leeds was my city and I was there to stay, until a trip to Toronto changed everything. In a crowded Toronto bar, the night before I was due to fly back to the UK, I met Kevin. And my fate was sealed; not only would I fall in love with Kevin, but also with the city of Toronto. I liked Toronto. It has a friendly, open vibe and is so diverse. Torontonians love their sports, their coffee and Drake is basically royalty. Leeds was home; it’s where I lived for 13 years, and where I made lifelong friends. But Toronto is where the next chapter of my life has begun.

From Friday night in the city

Toronto has some amazing restaurants. With such a diverse population comes the opportunity to take a trip around the world every time you go out to eat. My top recommendations include Gusto 101 (a stylish Italian in the heart of downtown Toronto), Planta on Queen (a vegan restaurant in the Financial District), and Grand Electric (arguably the best tacos in town). Happy Hour is big here. Try Oretta on King Street for great deals on drinks and appetisers. Belfast Love, just down the road, has an extensive list of beers which makes propping up the bar for hours a breeze. Innovative bar snacks are also a thing here, going far beyond the usual olives and nuts.

The good spots are more underground, a bit like London, so it took me a little time to find my (dancing) feet. If you’re into DJs, I’d recommend CODA on Bathurst Street. Purple Disco Machine did an epic set there recently and it’s such a good space – plus it always stays open late! Most places in Toronto close at 2am, when bars are legally obligated to stop serving alcohol. The Gay Village in Church & Wellsley is always a good night out. Nestled in downtown Toronto’s core, there’s no shortage of busy cafes, bars and clubs. Gatsby Speakeasy is a fun choice, with two pianos playing requests throughout the night; expect to hear anything from Elton John to the Spice Girls. I also have a guilty pleasure for Crews & Tangos – a fun drag bar where you can dance off a busy week of work.

To the perfect relaxing Sunday

First, we observe the religion of Brunch. Toronto is bigon Brunch – you’ll often find people will actively queue to get in front of their eggs benedict or tower of pancakes and maple syrup. Then it’s time to walk-off the gluttony. There are plenty of parks and public spaces in Toronto, such as Trinity Bellwoods, Brickworks, which has a great market on Sundays, or our very own Corktown Common. We usually finish up on the sofa watching British TV; it stops me feeling homesick.

If you’re going on a first date

Head to the Distillery District, located in the east of downtown Toronto. Here, cafés, bars and restaurants are housed within heritage buildings of the former Gooderham and Worts Distillery. It’s the largest collection of Victorian-era industrial architecture in North America. Start with some top-notch-quality Mexican food at El Catrin and then grab a pint (or two) at the Mill Street Brewery. Plus, you’ll need to get a photograph underneath the famous Distillery District heart sculpture, if that’s not too keen for a first date!

And if you want to escape

Niagara Falls is about a two hour drive from Toronto – and worth the trip. There are plenty of reasonably priced tours from downtown, which also stop off at Niagara-on-the-lake, a picturesque, chocolate box town that once served as Canada’s first capital. There are a number of wineries around Ontario, such as Muskoka and Prince Edward County. Toronto is also well connected with two airports: Pearson International and Billy Bishop. Within an hour’s flight you can be in the nearby cities of Montréal and Ottawa.

It’s also worth taking a trip to Toronto’s islands. They’re just a 10-minute boat ride from the city but feel a world away. There are so many things to do on the islands for young and old; relax on the beach, cycle, visit the mini funfair, or check out festivals that take place over the summer. The view of Toronto’s skyline from here is unreal – definitely one for Instagram!

Getting around Toronto: a newbie’s guide

Downtown is pretty well served by the Toronto Transit Commission, more commonly referred to as the TTC, which comprises a subway system, buses and streetcars. The Oyster card equivalent is called Presto – and it is cheap compared to UK cities. It costs around £1.80 to travel anywhere within Toronto and, as long as you’re within 2 hours from your first Presto card tap, you won’t be charged another fare for additional journeys. I also like to walk as much as possible – that way you get to see more of the city.

Dog-friendly October 20, 2020

TeamCocopup: A dog-friendly weekend getaway at The Noel Arms Hotel

Sometimes, all you need to beat the COVID-19 blues, is simply a weekend getaway to the Cotswolds. Whisked away to the idyllic market town of Chipping Campden, we checked into The Noel Arms Hotel, a traditional inn that’s brimming with both charm and history.

The Noel Arms is one of the oldest Cotswold inns and rumour has it that Charles II found refuge in these very walls during the English civil war. We too found some welcome refuge within the stone façade of the Noel Arms, which was filled with plenty of warm touches and antique details as old as the hotel itself.

We stayed in one of the Double En Suite rooms, which was cosy but not lacking in any creature comforts. A Bespoke hotel property, each room at the Noel Arms is different, combining modern amenities with antique furnishings. The pièce de resistance has to be the hotel’s 1657 Four Poster room, which features a stunning wood-carved 17th-century bed.

The Dovers Bar restaurant serves traditional locally-sourced pub food with an Indian flair. Head Chef Indunil Upatissa was awarded the Great British Pub Awards for best Curry Chef three years running, and it’s easy to see why. It would be a crime to dine at The Dovers Bar without sampling Chef Indunil’s curries — and we tried both the Sri Lankan Black Lamb and the Ceylon Style Seafood Yellow curry which certainly did not disappoint. On a bright sunny day, the hotel’s sun terrace is a prime spot to spend an afternoon enjoying a cocktail or two.

Outside the hotel, there’s plenty of dog-friendly activities in Chipping Campden. The famous Cotswolds Way is just at the end of town and offers some pretty breath-taking walks. The Broadway Tower — which was once the Cotswolds highest tower — is not too far off too.

The Little Oak Vineyard is a brief jaunt away from town and offers dog-friendly wine-tasting that offers some of the best locally-grown wines. Most of the quaint and utterly charming restaurants, cafés and shops in Chipping Campden are dog-friendly too, so there’s never a shortage of things to see and do.

For those looking for a quieter escape, guests at the Noel Arms’ can pop into sister hotel, The Cotswold House Hotel Spa just next door to enjoy a relaxing afternoon at the spa. Otherwise, there is nothing better than getting cosy in front of the hotel’s roaring log fire, dog at your feet, and getting lost in a good book on a chilly early autumn evening.

Nightly rates at The Noel Arms start from £99 B&B for a double room

City breaks October 19, 2020

#RediscoverLeeds : Shopping in Leeds

Here at House of Coco we have a soft spot for the city of Leeds, not just because it’s where our Founder Laura Bartlett was born and bred, but because it has a pretty eclectic shopping scene that we just can’t get enough of.

Whether you have a penchant for designer buys and fancy a trip to Victoria Gate, Victoria Quarter and Harvey Nichols or your thing is independent fashion, then Leeds has something for everyone.

Check out this video and get your credit cards at the ready so that you can #RediscoverLeeds.

www.visitleeds.co.uk

Italy October 16, 2020

A Holiday To Remember At The Chedi Lustica Bay Hotel At Montenegro

The Chedi Lustica Bay

Chedi Lustica Bay is a place where the modern history of Montenegro begins, as it is a part of the tale of Lustica Construction. Thanks to it, we are all witnessing the formation of a new town, Lustica Bay, in the middle of the wonderful and world-famous Boka Bay.

Location

The Chedi Lustica Bay Hotel is situated in the bay named Traste, which has a great location with lots of sunny days and is one of the few locations in the Boka Bay facing the open sea. This brings an added appeal to this new city, which is having its contours step by step. The Marina Village, one of the hoods of the new town of Lustica Bay, is the exact location of this jewel hotel and is a beautiful place with stores, cafes, bars, galleries and, of course, a large, modern marina right in front of the hotel building with a classic promenade around it.

What does it offer?

This new luxury hotel offers sleek, light-filled rooms that reflect the Adriatic Sea and the shades of the Mediterranean Sea. It includes 111 rooms and suites, 2 pubs, 2 bars and a high-tech meeting and business centre, a wellness facility with an indoor pool, a private beach and a heated swimming pool. Deluxe rooms and suites reflect Mediterranean luxury, overlooking the dreamy sea of Traste Bay and the mountain views of Montenegro from floor-to-ceiling glass. With luxury furnishings, innovative technologies and lavish facilities, the rooms are built to make your stay as stress-free as possible.

The Restaurant

The Chedi Lustica Bay Hotel delivers a true 5-star experience with a service that is always one step ahead! Enjoy a new twist on the traditional classics of The Restaurant or the innovative cuisine of The Spot. The chic Lobby Bar offers refreshments and afternoon tea, while the Rok Beach Bar offers snacks and drinks.

The Beach

Only a few steps away from the Marina Village promenade, you’re at the hotel’s beach, completely fitted with everything you may need during the long summer days! When you’re absorbing the Mediterranean sun, the workers of Chedi Lustica Bay are at your service, taking care of you as you please. And while you are relaxing at the beach you can have a go at your favourite casino games on Bluefox Casino.

The Spa

And if you plan to return during the cool and dry winters, you do not have to worry about it. The Spa, influenced by nature and influenced by ancient Eastern traditions, is just the right choice to restore peace and freshness! Alongside the spectacular indoor wellness pool, sauna, steam room, restrooms and relaxing rooms, the hotel provides a wide variety of luxurious facilities like treatments.

Other activities

There is plenty to do in the resort from water sports, fishing, cycling, running, shopping to the ancient town of Kotor (about half an hour drive away), but much of the hotel life revolves around the sea and boats.

Conclusion

The best location of the Chedi Lustica Bay Hotel, only a few miles from Tivat airport as well as the world-famous town of Kotor and many stunning beaches along the coast, is well nestled in the natural surroundings of the town of Lustica Bay. Though it is near to all, it is still secluded and with a beautiful environment.

A spot for itself and with authenticity as the cornerstone to any guest experience, from the polished grandeur of architecture to the respectful warmth of the hotel people addressing you by your name, the Chedi Luštica Bay Hotel is truly a style to note.

Travel October 15, 2020

The Best things to do in New Zealand

Here at House of Coco, we love New Zealand. Not just because of its stunning beauty but because of the endless list of things that you can do. If you’re planning a trip over the pond anytime soon, then you will want to know about our top three must do activities which also include how to start texas llc.

We have put together a mini guide to help you kick start your time in New Zealand with a bang.

Go wild in the casinos

There are a lot of online casinos in New Zealand so you can be sure to while away a lot of hours, and money, getting carried away with the options. Now, the interesting thing is that Kiwi law says that it is illegal to gamble at any online casino based in NZ but players that are of the legal age can play online at any casino based outside of the country.

Get lost in nature

Kayaking, water sports and hiking are up there with the must do activities when in town due to the stunning beauty that you will see everywhere. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can hire a car and go on a road trip in New Zealand and you will see some incredible animals along the journey too if you are brave enough to venture off of the beaten track.

Prepare for luxury

New Zealand and luxury go hand in hand, you will have to make sure you set aside the budget to take full advantage of the luxury things to do. From fine dining in the top restaurants to staying in some of the most extravagant hotels and villas, you will be spoilt for choice when it comes to luxury.

Travel October 14, 2020

STAYCATION IDEAS: BEST WAYS TO TAKE A VACATION AT HOME

Though it is indispensable for many to go for a weekend getaway and spend a holiday away from home, not all people can afford or take a vacation somewhere, therefore, staycations are the best alternative. A home is a powerhouse and a paradise with thrills that can surpass the offers of top destinations. Who told you that vacation home plans are boring enough? Let us dispel all your doubts!

Think of a great plan like a themed barbecue event in a backyard with kids and friends. It will be a moment to remember.

We know great-recipe holidays at home that have made people change their views on weekend getaways. In this post, we share the best three vacation plans to help make every weekend or holiday at home an experience.

Why Plan for a Staycation?

One question that people ask is: “Why plan for a staycation?” The point is to provide an enthralling alternative to going for expensive holidays. Here are other benefits:

The plans help to revitalize people’s residences and make them springs of joy for families
They are top remedies to issues like stay at home wife depression
One can take more time with friends and family
It is a good way to learn new things such as cooking by following new recipes

The following are the top three vacation plans that people should consider:

Camping in the Backyard

Camping is one of the top activities that no one wants to miss during holiday and weekend getaways. Now, it is possible to replicate the same thrill in the backyard. This will be very easy for those who already have camping equipment. However, even those without can cheaply rent the equipment and set things up in the backyard.

Use blow up mattresses together with sleeping bags to make the camp comfier. Because you are in the backyard, do not hesitate to use power extensions to light the camp. Here are other things that can help to make camping in the backyard irresistible:

Set the fireplace and sit around sharing great stories
Use the tent to watch movies at night
Involve everybody to prepare meals using great recipes such as grilled hamburgers, hot dogs or barbecued chicken
To add some pomp, consider using special lighting and décor ribbons

Watch Holiday Movies

There is nothing that tunes the mind into a holiday mood like movies. Because of tight work schedules, many people end up missing great thriller, horror, documentaries and action movies. Well, it is time to catch up!

To make the house holiday vacations more enjoyable by watching movies, it is prudent to prepare well. Start by picking an appropriate theme, clearing distractions, and controlling the lighting in the room. If you have a fireplace, this is a perfect opportunity to use it. Here are other things that will make this plan successful:

Sign up for movie streaming services to access different movie categories
Invite friends to watch movies together
Fry a turkey and enjoy the meal

Host Folks at Your Court

When on holidays abroad, you can only meet with people. However, a home holiday is better because it allows you to connect with folks. Because of the busy schedule, meeting with close friends might have been relegated to Facebook and Instagram. By inviting friends, it is possible to catch up and achieve the following:

Learn how they are progressing
Meet their families if they have married and moved on
Possibilities of creating new partnerships and even business deals

Well, a great folks meeting could usher a new beginning or ideas that might become the next big thing. For example, friends who have computing skills can join those with economics insights and hatch an idea to develop a financial app. Do not underrate it; the idea could become the next big thing.

To make the plan of hosting folks more successful, here are some crucial components of this plan:Set a small tent outdoors depending on the number of guests

Prepare roast chicken and snacks or order some from outside catering

Invite a local band to perform during the event

Involve close friends to prepare the event

Conclusion

Every vacation is excellent. The reasons that make people opt for home holidays can become thrillers worth remembering. The secret is preparing well and bringing out the holiday mood.

Mary Hampton is one of the most adorable journalists ever. After getting a Master degree in journalism, she has dealt with diverse article types, covered thousands of topics, and investigated lots of the fields being rather complicated for the standard or upcoming writer. She usually illustrates her works in her blog, shares skills and knowledge with other journalists, and every time she is moving ahead with her studies and articles. Nowadays, her professions are published all over the world in predominantly international newspapers and journals.

Travel October 13, 2020

The 5 Strangest Things You Can Face While Traveling Europe

Travelers from around the world are often mystified by several different things when they visit the US, but this does go both ways. If you are planning to visit Europe from the US then expect to encounter some things in European countries that are fairly strange and unusual. Here are some of the strangest things that you might encounter in Europe if you’re not a local.

Everything Closes on Sundays:

For many Americans who are used to everything being open all of the time, one of the most confusing things about visiting Europe is that many European countries take their free time very seriously and most things are closed on a Sunday. With the exception of some restaurants and bars, it’s unlikely to find everything open on a Sunday in most European destinations with the exception of the UK, where stores will open on a Sunday but with reduced trading times. In fact, they even have strict Sunday trading laws that require large stores to be closed by a certain time.

Trains to Different Countries:

When you’re coming from the US where you could drive days just to be in another state, the idea of getting on a train for a few hours and getting off in a completely different country can take quite some getting used to. But this is one of the beauties of Europe – with many of the countries quite small in size and connected by rail, you really can visit tons of different places in a very short space of time. Check out this Prague to Vienna train that’ll get you between two stunning European destinations quickly.

Cheap Beer:

While it’s not the same for all European countries, there are many areas where the beer is cheaper than the water. If you ask for a pint of beer in Prague, it’ll actually cost you less than a pint of water.

Ancient Ruins:

Another common sight in Europe that most Americans simply aren’t used to is the ancient ruins. From huge sites like the Acropolis in Athens to the Colosseum in Rome, Europe is the continent to be if you want to see the ruins of buildings that have been around for thousands of years. Check out this guide on how to plan a trip to Europe if you want to make sure that you get to see as many interesting ancient ruins as possible during your vacation – after all, they are a really unique part of history.

Driving:

While some countries in Europe have strict road rules and fairly organized roads, other countries like Italy and Greece can feel like driving is a free-for-all. If you’re planning to hire a car in either of these countries then prepare yourself for a different experience to what you are used to, with Greece in particular home to several roads with no speed limits at all. And if you plan to visit the UK or Malta, you’ll find that they drive on the opposite side of the road.

Have you encountered anything that you found strange while traveling in Europe?