I know what you’re going to say. Why drive when you can inter-rail? Why inter-rail when you can fly? Why fly when you can teleport? Let’s not get ahead of ourselves here.  Of course, jumping on a plane is the height of modern transportation and sure, it is the easiest and most convenient method for the would-be tourist. Yet, consider the undiscovered land below. Miles of open road stretch infinitely through Europe, hungry for tires and the hum of a cruising motor. Instead of confining yourself to the stale air of an aeroplane, why not rent a car and experience Europe by road? After all, driving in an energy-efficient car generates fewer greenhouse-gas emissions than flying and this lowers your carbon footprint.

“Focus on the journey, not the destination.”

- Greg Anderson, American Author

It might sound like more trouble than it’s worth, but it’s surprising how much of the culture and landscape you can soak up when you liberate your options and surrender to the possibilities of a road-trip. And, significantly, with the European Union currently in a state of flux, there has never been a better time to witness a continent during serious economical and historical change. Who said travelling had to be relaxing, after all? It’s all about the life-lessons you can glean from your experiences, not to mention the fact you’ll have stories to tell the family for years to come.

From Amsterdam to Venice, stopping off in Barcelona and coasting back through Paris, Europe offers a very unique opportunity. This is just an example of the circular routes that can be achieved through the continent because, unlike other parts of the world, crossing borders (especially in Western Europe) is relatively problem-free. And, once crossed, each country heralds an extraordinary variety of history and culture.

There are two ways of going on a driving adventure through Europe. Planning a route or just following your senses. Undoubtedly, the latter is not for the faint hearted. However, the exhilaration one feels at being, if only for a while, completely directionless, is incomparable to a carefully organised trip.  A word of advice before setting off all guns blazing: there are some strict European motoring rules to adhere to and failure to comply may result in fines or your car being taken away! Therefore, it is of the utmost importance that you check country-by-country for particular rules and regulations.

Hot Tips

• If you notice that quite a few petrol stations are collecting on your side of a border, petrol is probably more expensive in the next country, therefore, fill up your tank before crossing!
• Until recently, cars trying to drive across a border were required to display a nationality sticker. This, however, is no longer a requirement for driving across borders in Europe.
• The same set of standardised road-signs are used all over Europe. These signs are graphic rather than linguistic and, as such, their meaning tends to be easy to understand.
• When entering a new town, a great way to get your bearings is to follow signs that point to the train station. Many guidebooks use the train station as the origin for their directions to sights and accommodations.
• If you do get a hire car and embark on your driving adventure, you’ll get used to tunnels in mountainous areas. Be sure to turn on your vehicle’s headlights before entering a tunnel; police often lie in wait on the other end.

This blog was written for Diamond Resort Resales, the only authorised reseller for Diamond Resorts European Collection points.

Apart from being known as the home of “Nessie” the Loch Ness monster and the popular immortals from Highlander, Scotland has a rich and fascinating heritage filled with tales of fierce warriors decked in tartans defending their castles and fiefs.

Castles

Due to Scotland’s position in Europe, early fortifications were required to prevent foreign armies and aggressive neighbouring clans from invading. Buildings such as brochs (Iron-Age drystone structures) and hill forts helped protect the inhabitants.

From around 1100 AD onwards castles were built over the sites of these earlier buildings, and today Scotland has some of the most famous, as well as the oldest, castles in the world! There are even rumours that some of these castles are haunted, such as the famous Edinburgh Castle which has had a triad of ghosts spotted over the centuries. Visitors have sighted a ghostly piper and a headless drummer in this castle, and even a ghost dog has been spotted wandering through the pet cemetery.

Borthwick Castle is another well-known haunted site where the ghostly figure of Mary Queen of Scots has been seen, garbed as a page boy. Historically, she came to Borthwick with her third husband, the Earl of Bothwell, after their wedding. When 1000 soldiers turned up to kill the Earl, Mary negotiated with them while her husband snuck away. The following morning she dressed as a page boy and made her escape.

Live like a King (or Queen)

There are many present-day castles which have opened their doors to visitors and guests. Invercauld Castle in Aberdeenshire can accommodate up to 23 persons for £17,000 per week. The price includes on-site staff and all catering.

Those who’d prefer a more cost-effective option should look at Kilravock Castle. It was built in 1460 just outside of Inverness, and is only a short drive away from the famous Loch Ness. At Kilravock Castle you have a choice between B&B and self-catering. The B&B option will have you housed in the old Coach House, complete with a full Scottish breakfast. The self-catering rooms are in the old Granary. Unfortunately you cannot stay inside the 500 year old castle but tours are available. The estate also features 40-acres of beautifully lush gardens.

Origins

Aside from the numerous castles, Scotland has an extraordinary number of ruins dotted about its landscape. The earliest known inhabitants of Scotland arrived during the Palaeolithic period, which occurred more than 10,000 years ago.

The next group to follow was the Mesolithic people, who thrived after the end of the last Ice Age as hunter-gatherers. They were followed by the Neolithic people, the first farmers, the Bronze Age men, and then the people of the Iron Age. It is thought that the Picts, meaning painted or tattooed people, appeared sometime between the late Iron Age and early Medieval times.

After this the Romans invaded Scotland, but never truly had more than half of it under their control in the years that they were there. The Picts and the Scots formed an alliance to push the Romans out. During the following years the Picts were absorbed into the Scots clans through marriage and warfare. Vikings also made an appearance in Scotland in 795 AD and again in 839 AD. Scotland re-took the territory the Vikings had claimed, between the 13th and the 15th century.

Remnants, Ruins, and Heritage Sites

• In the ancient village of Skara Brae standing stones and buildings were uncovered by a storm in 1850. The stone village of Skara Brae survived virtually intact because everything was made of stone, from the houses to the beds, to the drains and even shelving was chiselled out of rock. Neolithic Standing Stones were created by early man and the finest example of these can be found in Skara Brae. Other examples of standing stones can be found at Callanish, Croftmoraig, Machrie Moor, and the Ring of Brodgar.

• A form of Neolithic tomb, known as the cairn, consisted of a pile of stones used to mark a grave. You can see examples of cairns at Maes Howe and Galloway, as well as at the Clava Cairns near Inverness.

• Tools from the Mesolithic period give us insight into the hunter-gatherer lifestyle of early man. These items were made from igneous and metamorphic rock, as well as bone, and weapons discovered from this period include spears, harpoons and some arrowheads.

• Pictish stones are a baffling mystery to archaeologists. They are stones with decorated symbols carved into them, though for what purpose no one knows. It is presumed that these stones marked territories, or were perhaps prayers to the gods. Whatever they were used for, it shows us that the Picts were accomplished stone-workers as well as tribal artists. Some famous Pictish stones include the Aberlemno Stones, the Glamis Stone and the Sueno’s Stone.

• The Antonine Wall was built by the Romans across the Central Belt of Scotland. It was completed in 152 AD on the order of Roman Emperor Antoninus Pius. Though it was abandoned 20 years later, it still stands today.

Let us know if you’ve ever visited some of these interesting historical sites, and if you were brave enough to try the traditional dish of Haggis while in Scotland.

About the Author:

Roseanna Elizabeth McBain is the blogger for the Drakensberg accommodation booking website, TravelGround. She enjoys adventure, exploration, and hopes to one-day visit the Kinchyle memorial on the shores of Loch Ness. Check out more of her blogging at the TravelGround Blog.

This blog has been written for Diamond Resorts Resales, the only authorised Diamsond European Collection points seller.

If you’ve been looking for a reason to visit Portugal, and if you’re a trekking adept – this article should interest you. We will show you some lovely highlights of the Peneda-Geres reserve, which is the only National Park in Portugal. Located up North and encompassing three districts (Braga, Viana do Castelo and Vila Real), these awe-inspiring mountain ranges stretch all the way to the Spanish frontier.

Most commonly referred as sim¬ply “the Geres”, this wildlife sanctuary is home to several unique specimens of fauna and flora. It features extensive trekking routes, impressive scenic landscapes and inviting opportunities for rural tourism. While this place is great to just roam about freely in the spirit of adventure, here we point out some of the most interesting touristic highlights available in the region.

Matas de Albergaria
Located in the very heart of the Geres, this grove is a great place to commune with nature and get immersed in the spirit of Geres. Comprised mainly of secular oak trees, this ancient ecosystem maintains its original natural balance, thanks to the preservation measures enforced by the local authorities. There are thousands of plants and animal species scattered throughout, and plenty of natural streams and waterfalls. You can roam about for weeks on end and never really see it all; and when you leave, you’ll always want to come back.

Portela do Homem
Located at the outer limits of the national park, right alongside the Portuguese-Spanish border, Portela do Homem is a mountain pass that you can walk through in a few hours. While doing so, you’ll come across remnants of ancient roads from the Roman Empire, natural springs, and exquisite rock formations. It is one of the best trailing routes available in the region.

The Calcedonia Trail
If you’re up for taking long walks across the mountain range, this is another recommendable destination within this natural park. Located close the village of Campo do Geres (a great spot for rural tourism, by the way), this trail leads right to a huge rock the locals call the Calcedonia. The highlight here is a gap inside the rock that forms a natural passage. If you can make it through this narrow and rugged path, you’ll make it to the top and see one of the most glorious sceneries you can imagine.

Vilarinho das Furnas
Also close to the village of Campo Do Geres (roughly translated as ”the fields of Geres”), you will come across a dam that was built over an older village – Vilarinho das Furnas. If you manage to catch a tour to the water banks behind the dam, you can still see the submerged homes that used to be. For some reason, the underwater village is a hypnotizing and eerie sight… so if you get the opportunity to see it up close, don’t hesitate.

São Bento da Porta Aberta
For something a bit different (and especially if you’re a religious person) you may want to visit this Catholic sanctuary located in the foothills leading to the Geres. It was originally a modest chapel built around 1640 that became progressively popular as a pilgrimage site. Currently, the area attracts masses of religious people from all around the world, so it may be worth looking into.

Image credit to ptL2007

About the Author:

This guest article was brought to you by UKHolidayPlaces.co.uk, a travel group with headquarters in Her Majesty’s land, and a passion for adventure and exploration.

This guest blog was written for Diamond Resorts Resales, the only authorised reseller of Diamond Resorts European Collection Points and the best place for you to sell your Diamond Resorts points.

The most popular tourist destination in Europe has to be the wonderfully diverse country of Spain which has seen tourists visiting there since the 1960s. Spain offers not only the budget holiday maker an affordable package deal in the thousands of different beach-side resorts, but it also offers much more with its luxury, rich culture, beautiful countryside and the exceptional flavors of its unique cuisine. The following tips and suggestions will make your holiday experience more enjoyable.

At The Airport

The traveling part of any holiday can be somewhat stressful especially if it’s during a peak season like Christmas or one of the school holidays, so if at all possible try not to drive yourself to the airport. Remember to allow yourself plenty of time to check-in and go through the time consuming security procedures. Carry only the most essential things on your person. If a family group is traveling together then allocate one person to have everyone’s passports and tickets all together and ready to produce upon request. It is also a good idea to have any loose items like change, keys etc. in a clear plastic bag, keeping everything together in your pocket, easy to remove and easy to show the airport security staff.  Mark your luggage clearly and make it distinguishable from the other baggage so it is easier to pick out on the carousel when you arrive at your destination. You want to get through the airport procedures as quickly and easily as possible.

Shopping and Siestas

Spain has an extremely diverse culture depending on which part of the country you intend to holiday. However, one thing that is the same throughout the country is its famous siesta. This usually begins around 2pm and will last until around 5pm.  Traditionally it is a time when the family meets together for a long luxurious lunch followed by a nap afterward. With this in mind should you want to go shopping in the local market or buy suntan lotion at the corner store then you will be out of luck as they will be closed. The best time to do your shopping is in the evening as most places will be open until late.

Tapas and Sangria

Eating out can be a great experience in Spain but it is worth mentioning a couple of things to remember. First, the meal times will differ and a general rule-of-thumb is that they will be couple of hours later then what you may normally be accustomed to at home. Second, be aware of the menu prices and what you are actually ordering. Tourists worldwide are taken advantage of and Spain is no exception. Being overcharged or paying for unknown extras is something commonly experienced by many holidaymakers. Make sure that what you ordered is what you get. This also applies for your drinks, especially if you are drinking beer, which tends to be a little more expensive anyway. Being in Spain, wines are an excellent alternative to beer and you cannot go wrong sampling the local house wine which is relatively cheap and very drinkable. Cheers!

Dancing the Night Away

The night life in Spain is definitely something to be experienced and there is something for everyone. Want to meet some of the locals and have a sing along, then try one of the many tapas bars. You’ll get a warm welcome and have a memorable time. On the other hand, if you feel like having a proper rave-up then check out the wide range of night clubs and party until the morning. No two o’clock closing here mate, nice one.

Speak the Lingo, Gringo

If you are in a beach-side resort then you can easily get by with not needing any Spanish what-so-ever, but venture out to the local night markets and famous tapas bars then knowing a little Spanish will go a long way.  This is more so if you intend to travel around the surrounding areas on day trips or even plan to visit different towns and cities doing some touring of your own. So, it is well worth a small investment to purchase a Spanish phrase book.

Don’t Leave to Chance

The most commonly reported tourist crimes in Spain involve theft so when you are out and about take only what you will need for the day/evening. It goes without saying that all valuables should be in the room/hotel safe. Guys watch your wallets in those loose fitting clothes as pickpockets are rife. Try a money belt or the front pocket of a pair of jeans where you are sure to feel unwanted hands.

Final Words On Spanish Travel

All in all Spain is Europe’s number one destination for a reason, it has it all, and if you have never been then it is well worth a holiday or even a weekend visit. Flights are cheap enough and it only a few hours from pretty much most of Europe. So pack your bags and don’t forget the sunscreen. Adios amigos!

Image credit talliskeeton.

About the Author

This article was written by Ethan Hickey on behalf of Travel Republic who offer huge discounts on holidays to Spain with the lowest prices guaranteed.

This guest blog was written for Diamond Resorts Resales of Travel & Leisure group. If you’re looking for the top quality that Diamond Resorts in Spain can offer then we can help you to start off your Diamond Resorts Points ownership or top up existing points as well as helping you to sell any Diamond points you no longer need.

Image by http://www.flickr.com/photos/goodnight_london/

Devon is the home of the British Riveria, of some of the most glorious beaches in the UK, it also proudly boasts the national parks of Dartmoor and Exmoor, largely untouched areas of outstanding beauty which also have a mystical and tantalising past. Devon is a county which holds much for the holiday maker looking for their own slice of tranquillity and serenity.

Once part of the proud seaside resort heritage, Devon like many other locations in the UK saw a decline in tourism as more and more families packed up their bags in search of hotter climbs. Over the past decade, however, many seaside resorts and towns have reinvented themselves, focusing not on the ice cream and arcades of the 1960s, but rather on outdoor activities and watersports that benefit from the wonderful surroundings.

For those choosing to stay along the coastline you can find some truly wonderful beaches to marvel at while you are there. Devon’s beaches often get overlooked for those of their neighbour, Cornwall, this is, of course folly as you’ll rarely find so many locations as perfect as Ilfracombe, Woolacombe and Westward Ho.

When you have finished taking a dip in the sea of sunning yourself on the beaching, turning inland towards Dartmoor and Exmoor is very, very rewarding. These two national parks are lauded for their relatively untouched feel and vast concoction of sights and experiences to be found whilst there. On one had you can encounter villages almost unrecognisable to modern England as we know it now, and on the other areas of Dartmoor house some of the most advanced military and astronomical facilities in the country.

Peeling things back to the very basics though, what Devon holds is it’s unique ability to make you feel close to it when you are there, to know what is authentic and get the real experience. If you live in London, Manchester or any other large city, the feeling of freedom you can experience in one of the national parks or standing on a cliff-top overlooking the sea at is something you’ll only crave more of in the future.

If you want to experience the wonderful surroundings of Devon, but still be within moments of the shops and bars of one of it’s cities, staying in Exeter would probably be your best choice. Hotels like Buckerell Lodge sit comfortably within the limits of Exeter, whilst also being near enough to the surroundings of the Devonshire countryside.

But really the real Devon experience needs to be had in the peaceful countryside, amongst the rolling meadows, overlooking the mysterious marshlands. Woodford Bridge Country Club, provides such a setting, whilst having you located within easy reach of Devon’s sumptuous beaches and cliff-top views.

About the Author

Olga Leleka is a content writer for http://www.booked.net/, a hotels booking website which specialises in world-wide bookings including holidays in the UK and Devon.

This guest blog was written for Diamond Resorts Resales, for those looking to buy or sell their Diamond Resorts European Collection points.

Stay on the island of Skiathos, Greece. It is truly one island destination where you get to experience so many attractions and activities. Here are some of the reasons why Skiathos is simply the best island, not forgetting that key reason – it is virtual untouched by the common western tourist trail, you will be among the first to discover its beauty and unspoilt grandeur.

Image taken from http://www.flickr.com/photos/sonofgroucho/

Why Choose Skiathos?

Getting there is hassle-free. The island is not only picturesque but it is easily accessible by travellers who want to spend a vacation in this paradise heaven.  It has an airport – the Skiathos Island National Airport. There are boats that are generally operated by Hellenic Seaways and major roads which mean the place is fully accessible. Travel around the island is cheap and easy and the locals speak reasonable English considering how remote you feel at times.  No need to worry while you travel and relax on your dream vacation!

Discover many attractions and leisure activities. Spending time in Skiathos in Greece is surely fun from sun rise to sun set. With the long strip of crystalline beaches, clearly transparent waters, green vegetation, sumptuous food, Skiathos is nevertheless the perfect choice to relax in a short period of time. The island is also an excellent haven for night-outs. With bars, restaurants and other activity centers operating at night, your time will surely not be wasted during your stay at Skiathos. The nightlife is so alive with lots of parties and bands in some clubs and bars to welcome guests and enjoy the local’s taste for music and fun.

Relax in any of the comfortable hotels and apartments. Accommodation is also readily available in the island. There are number of hotels and apartments to choose from with excellent service provided. Whether you opt for high-end hotel or budget friendly rooms, you are catered for. All you need to do is check them online and book your reservations. Don’t forget promo deals and cheap vacation packages if you wish to save, it may be remote but Greek commerce is alive and well here. There are number of websites who continually come up with great vacation packages. Staying in Skiathos has never been so good, simple and definitely saves a lot of cash.

If you just love to be surrounded with people, Skiathos is the place to be during its peak season where it is filled with locals from neighbouring islands. The sounds, sights and the people are worth taking a vacation for alone.

Always consider arranging a day tour upon your arrival. Visit the beaches, take a dip on their blue waters, choose a water sport to enjoy, enjoy the green scenery, give way to your gastronomic pleasures and discover the rich culture the whole day, but do not miss out the night scene after those activities. Your Greece experience in Skiathos would surely be a lifetime memory you wanted to cherish. Why not make your inquiries as early as possible. Do not miss out that rare opporutnity to spend holidays in a beautiful Greek island.

About the Author:

Supplied by Explore-Earth, now accepting travel Guest Posts

This post has been written for Diamond Resorts Resales, the only authorised broker for European Collection Points. If you’re looking for a flexible way to holiday in style around Europe, then you can buy your points from us at a fraction of the price.

1. BCM Planet Dance, Magaluf
BCM Planet Dance, Magaluf, is number seven of the top one hundred clubs worldwide. It attracts the best artistes, club brands and DJs in the world. The cavernous Main Room has state of the art laser and light shows and the best sound system available anywhere. During the summer they fill the room with foam for their famous foam party. It is the only club in Majorca that rivals the nightclubs in Ibiza. It has three bars and resident as well as guest DJs. The top floor is reserved for hardcore clubbers and has a new sound system and laser show.

2. Disco Karussell, Cala Millor

Disco Karussell in Cala Millor has Caribbean and Brazilian dancers and plays German and international dance music. There are three bars, a VIP lounge in the newly renovated building. The stage has great shows of dancers as well as illusionists and hypnotists. Situated near the best beaches on the island, it’s a fantastic place to keep the party going.

3. Tito’s, Palma City
Tito’s in Palma City is one of the most popular clubs in Palma. Guests take a glass elevator from Paseo Maritimo to the very classy club. It has six bars, a fantastic laser show and spectacular views from the chill-out terrace that overlooks Palma Bay. Tito’s has been a top club in Majorca since the 1950s and 1960s when it hosted Marlene Dietrich and Ray Charles. Today, the music is the latest Garage and Rhythm and Blues. It offers a world class clubbing experience in the middle of Palma City.

4. Menta, Alcudia
Menta in Alcudia is the best and biggest club in Alcudia. The building looks like a Roman temple and it has seven bars, an open air swimming pool and the mixture of disco and Spanish music attracts tourists and locals. Wherever they are from, guests dress up for this club, and it is a little pricier than some other clubs, but it is well worth it.
5. Virtual, Illetas

Virtual, Illetas, is an unusual club located in a cave just outside of Palma City. Its restaurant, bar and club are all inside the natural caves on the Illetas sea front. They offer the latest house music for the dance floors, but in the chill-out area, where there are hammocks, the music is more relaxed. This club offers something unique in the clubbing scene and should not be missed.

This guest post was written for Diamond Resorts Resales, the only authorised reseller for Diamond Resorts European Collection Points. If you’re looking to buy more points or looking to sell your Diamond Resorts Points, you’ve come to the right place.

French Bread

The French are proud of their Artisan bakeries and local produce and have rarely let the supermarkets and chain stores take over from their local food suppliers. The bread in France is sublime; the dough is soft and the crust is crispy, the flavour is rich and slightly nutty – the perfect combination for home-made soup and deep filled baguettes.  It’s rare that you’ll see a meal served in France without fresh bread at the table.  The French even have a common saying “c’était long comme un jour sans pain” which means “it was as long as a day without bread” which is used to describe something boring.

Pâtisseries

Pâtisseries are spread throughout the towns and villages of France and make up some of the most spectacular shops to visit in Paris, even with the abundance of designer clothes stores.  Most shops are proudly headed by chefs, such as Pierre Hermé.

Such a huge range of pastries and desserts are available in France that it would be impossible to try them all, and some are so dainty and intricately decorated that they almost look too good to eat. A particularly fashionable treat across Europe at the moment is the coloured macaroon; small round soft and chewy cakes with a cream filling – pink, green, brown, purple all with subtle flavourings.

Vanilla, cream and custard feature heavily too, eclairs, choux buns and flans can be found in nearly every pastry shop.

French Cheese

Many a French cheese has been given as a Christmas gift. The long life and ripening with maturity makes French cheese the perfect gift. French cheese can be bought at farmers markets and delicatessens.  The majority of French cheeses tend to be soft, which makes them the perfect accompaniment to crispy French bread, with a glass of local wine to wash it all down. Camembert and Brie are firm favourites.

In fact some French food lovers enjoy authentic, organic French cheese and wine so much that they will make a special trip to France just to stock up. Sites like www.lovehomeswap.com are popular with French food lovers, as they can find accommodation off the beaten track through a home exchange France scheme, allowing them to stay close to local vineyards and farms.

We’ve only scratched the surface of a few of the flavours of France, and there are many more to be experienced. Flavours and types of food available will vary by region too, with some areas specialising in wine such as Bordeaux and Champagne. To truly sample all of the best foods that France has to offer, it’s worth a tour of the country to soak it all in.

This guest blog was written for www.diamondresortsresales.co.uk the only authorised resellers of Diamond Resorts European Collection points. If you are looking to buy some more points or sell some you already own, then you have come to the right place.

Notorious Lively Spots

In the south of the island you will find the most popular tourist hot spots, where infamous bars such as Linekars and Brannigans warm up the crowds with drinking games, and venues such as Shakespeare’s Bar are waiting for you to grab the microphone and kill a classic tune with some karaoke, which often falls victim to the product of cheap drinks more and more by the second. Both resorts are, however, home to some slightly lesser known venues that will give holidaymakers a slightly different night time experience. In Playa de las Americas, the Full Monty is a terrific bar that plays host to cabaret performances, and the Sax Bar is perfect for unleashing your inner rock god or goddess. Los Cristianos is where you will find The Merry Monk, a stylish and chilled bar that serves some tasty cocktails and hosts live performances throughout the week.

Relaxing into the Evening

Travelling away from the tourist crowds, San Eugenio is known for its slightly less hectic atmosphere, and is the perfect place to spend some relaxed evenings with a cocktail in hand. If you want a drink made with some stylish flaring moves, Harley’s American Restaurant and Bar is where you will be faced with a 130 strong cocktail menu and service from award winning bartenders. If you wish to take a step back in time and be entertained by the likes of Freddie Mercury and Elvis, The Irish Rover plays host to some intriguing tribute acts, which are sometimes not too far removed from the real thing, especially once you’ve let a few drinks settle your inner critique!

For a nightlife peppered with a higher brow culture, the island’s capital, Santa Cruz is the place to head to. Boasting a calendar rich with festivals, as well as a number of theatres and concert auditoriums, you’ll find some performances from some well known names, as well as some Latino and Spanish favourites.

Local Nights

If you’re looking for a more authentic feeling nightlife, then Puerto de la Cruz is the perfect place to see the locals come out in their masses. You can wander along the Avda Familia Bethencourt y Molina and hear the warming sounds of Latino music and watch the Canarians that live for the weekend.

Along the north of the island, La Laguna, Tenerife’s University City, is home to some of the more interesting live acts, as well as a collection of local bars and clubs, where you can enjoy some lively nights that extend well into the early hours of the morning.

One of the best aspects of Tenerife nightlife is that it cannot be summed up in a neat package. It offers diversity and a cosmopolitan variety, and can be delved into with an open mind, or slowly approached as and when it is needed. Whether you wish to enjoy some laid back nights with some local wine and cuisine, or want to dance until the sun comes up, Tenerife holidays have got it covered.

About the author:

L.Feasey is part of the travel writers team behind the easyJet holidays website, where you can find out more details on Spain holidays and other destinations across Europe.

This guest blog was written for Diamond Resorts Resales, the only authorised reseller of European collection diamond resorts points, so whether you are looking to sell your points or purchase some more, you’ve come to the right place.

The Guinness Storehouse
One of the things Dublin is known for is its Irish beer, so a visit to the Guinness Storehouse is a must on any trip to this city. This world famous beer is Ireland’s biggest export and greatest attraction. The St. James Brewery was founded by Arthur Guinness in 1759 and is open daily to the public and offers guided tours instructing visitors on how Guinness beer is made. Visitors are given demonstrations on brewing techniques that have been used for centuries as well as more modern techniques that have only served to improve this national commodity. Naturally, free samples are also provided for all who visit this incredible landmark.

Old Library
Built in the early 1700′s, the Old Library, whose official name is the Trinity College Library, is home to thousands of books and collectibles. In compliance with the Library Act of 1801, all Irish colleges and libraries are entitled to a free copy of any book published in the United Kingdom. As a result, the shelves of these history buildings are filled with copies of some of the world’s most treasured volumes. Open daily for tours, the Old Library is of value for what it houses as well as its impressive architecture. This location is definitely worth a visit.

St. Stephen’s Green
Escape the musty museums and spend a few hours outside at St. Stephen’s Green. This beautiful park was designed in the mid 18th century and has a distinctive old-world feel to it. Visitors and locals alike will find this beautiful expanse of property a great place to have a picnic, spend the afternoon with friends and family, or just escape the stresses of the day by taking a walk around this well-manicured location. Complete with a playground for children and beautifully crafted buildings surrounding the green, a visit to St. Stephen’s is a great way to spend a quiet day in Dublin. The famous north side of the green should not be missed. It is home to Dublin’s first hotel approved by society as well as a 16th century Huguenot cemetery as well as a few hidden surprises.

National Museum of Ireland
No trip to Dublin would be complete without a visit to the National Museum of Ireland. Known locally as the Collins Barracks, this facility was built by Queen Anne in 1704 to use as a military barracks. Later re-purposed for use as a museum, this beautifully crafted building houses the military and economic history of Ireland. Open daily for touring and even the occasional school group tour, one cannot visit Dublin without taking a moment to enjoy Irish history.

Filled with many things to see and do, Dublin is a city that calls visitors from around the world. Experiencing Dublin is unlike any other trip. Filled with history, beauty, and fun, a Dublin holiday is what dreams are made of.
This guest post was written for Diamond Resorts Resales, the only authorised broker of Europe collection Diamond Resorts Points. If you want to top up your points or sell those you already have, you’ve come to the right place.