21 Reasons to Visit The Norwegian Fjords

1) Its seriously beautiful...calm crystal blue waters, fresh cool air, and stunning landscapes

2) Fantastic mountains to hike up, with lakes to swim in and the most spectacular views

3) More stunning views and more crystal clear lakes to swim in (Warning - COLD!)

4) Stand on top of the world at Pulpit Rock and gaze down the magical Fjord

5) You can tempt death like me.. Yikes! 

6) You can find your inner peace whilst chilling on top of a mountain 

7) They have the prettiest waterfalls 

8) and train rides, taking you to see all the magical mountains covered in snow

9) They have the creepiest yet most intriguing and mysterious houses 

10) Thrilling mountain bike rides down the hills and slopes, taking in all the lovely surroundings of the green mountains, rivers, waterfalls, flower fields and baby animals

11) More stunning waterfalls 

12) They have very pretty church's, rich with history and architecture

13) More stunning landscapes, just like a postcard! 

14) There are plenty of lovely little real ale breweries with stone fires and oak wood furnishes 

15) You could sit in a Jacuzzi hot tub surrounded by the magnificent Fjords and beautiful green trees

16) More stunning Fjords 

17) There's lots of little villages waiting to be seen 

18) Little baby animals and their mothers 

19) Even more stunning church's with fantastic architecture 

20) Fishing villages, harbours, towns and pretty flowers 

21) Last but not least...breathtaking sunsets 

If this hasn't tempted you enough to visit the Norwegian Fjords, why not try a different adventure in Europe? So many hidden gems waiting to be explored and discovered! Just remember its one thing to be rich with money but its another to be rich with memories that will never leave you. 

eShores do fantastic holiday packages if you're looking, they can also provide you with great travel advice and information on any location you have in mind. 

Highlights of Lisbon

Portugal is extremely popular with holiday makers and its no surprise as this beautiful country offers an abundance of attractions, stunning scenery, activities for the kids, historic castles and cities, sandy beaches, great food and best of all its sunny!

What more could anyone possibly ask for? Here I would like to give you my top and most inspiring recommendations for Portugal on what to see, where to go and whats hot. Now you may already have your whole trip to Portugal planned out but if you're still unsure of where to stay, go and what to do here are my top recommendations for Portugal:

Where to go - Lisbon (Capital)

Quite right that Lisbon is Portugal's capital and is home to a wide range of stunning attractions including Gothic Cathedrals, grand monasteries, unique museums and a variety of exquisite restaurants and bars. Once you have seen all the captivating points in Lisbon, put down your map and get wanderlust in its quirky backstreets where you will find hidden boutiques, shops, bakeries, art galleries, ice cream and coffee parlours, jazz, rock and reggae bars and much more. Whether you're sitting outside a restaurant patio with a glass of red wine sampling their dishes and enjoying the beautiful scenery and people passing you by or you're on your own adventure making your way to each attraction and sight in Lisbon, I can guarantee you will feel completely content in this fabulous city. 

Sights and attractions - Convento de Cristo 

In you're a big fan of history or you appreciate it like me you will want to visit this magnificent attraction called Convento de Cristo which is the Knights Templar that was founded in 1160. Over the centuries this enormous stone masterpiece has been added to with chapels, choirs and cloisters by Kings and Grand Masters. The overwhelming Charloa is a 16-sided Templar church which is like no other in all of Portugal and is believed to have been inspired by the Church of Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem. You can take a guided tour which will show you all of the Convento de Cristo including the impressive Charola, Church, Claustro de Cemiterio & Claustro da Lavagem and the Claustro Principle or walk yourself round with a map and take in the incredible sights that are rich with fascinating history. I don't want to spoil too much for you by giving you all the interesting facts but if you would like to know more Lonely Planet have plenty. 

Picture sourced from Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/pin/12807180164844141/

Sights and attractions - Mosterio dos Jeronimos 

Whether your religious or not, one can still appreciate the beauty of magnificent architecture and structure as well as rich and gripping history which the Mosterio dos Jeronimos has. This Unesco-listed monastery is completely breathtaking and spectacular with its spiderwebs of stone and tree-like pillars that tower and climb up into the ceiling. This incredibly detailed church glows in a soft honey coloured light from its great windows and has been used not only for prayer and religion but also a a school and orphanage. However this is not a free attraction but is still very cheap at 12 euros or 16 euros which will include the Museu Nacional de Arqueologia. 

Picture sourced from Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/pin/347199452494658265/

Tours - Lisbon Hop on Hop off 

Depending on how you like to see things and go about you travels there are plenty of different tours in Lisbon to choose from. One I have found which seems to be the cheapest is the hop on hop off tour with 4 different routes and tram included from £11. The four different bus tours included in this super saver are the Tagus tour, the Olisipo tour, the Belem tour and the Hills Tramcar tour which allow you to see Portugal's capital from all different points of the stunning city. You can simply hop on and hop whenever you like (in the same day), you get a free map and a headset to hear your guide as well as a discount book for the restaurants and museums! What a deal!! 

Where to eat - Belcanto 

Belcanto is a two-star Michelin restaurant and is highly regarded for its exquisite dishes and elegant service. If you like enjoy great tasting food you need to give this restaurant a try with mouth watering meal including sea bass with seaweed and bivalves, yum! You will need to make a reservation here though, they are very busy! 

Where to eat - 100 Manerias 

Now even though Belcanto is my first pick, you may not be guaranteed a table if they're really busy so this is my second choice. Its really cool this place, they have a 10 course tasting menu which changes everyday and every course is a surprise! Obviously if you have and food allergies best giving the chef a heads up. Make a reservation here too guys, not always as packed as Belcanto just still very popular. 

Entertainment - Park

If you didn't see enough from your hop on hop off bus tour then Park bar is the best place to go, by now I can also imagine your thirsty. Probably one the strangest yet most unique bars in all of Portugal as you have to climb to the top of a multi-storey car park to reach this spectacular roof top bar which has breathtaking views. Get yourself a delicious cocktail and chill out in this cool quirky bar whilst listen to jazz and house tunes.

Where to stay - The Algarve 

The Algarve is the most popular and visited destination in all of Portugal as it offers warm sun, sandy beaches, beautiful coastal locations, great cliffs and scalloped bays, activities, bars, restaurants and nightlife. Go surfing for the day, climb a cliff, go swimming, play beach volleyball, take a walk along the beach and strip, hire a boat out or try one of the trilling water sport activities on the beach. Whatever you're into The Algarve will exceed your expectations and that's what I love most about this destination, no matter what age you are you will have fun and you will fall in love. 

My Holiday in Portugal - The Algarve 

I happened to jump on my mum and dads holiday about two weeks prior to the date they were going as originally my sister was going with my little niece but she couldn't make it so I unselfishly took her place, quite right. I also managed to get my friend a place on the same flight and as the accommodation was already paid for she jumped at the chance as well. So there we had it, me, my mum, dad, niece and best friend all going to The Algarve in Portugal. 

The two bedroom apartment we stayed in was lovely, recently refurbished but still kept its original Portuguese style and character and it also had a pool, get in! We spent our day swimming in the pool and playing on the beach, we even managed to get my little niece on a pedalo boat with a slide which she absolutely loved. In the evening we would sample all the different restaurants that was on offer, I have to say the fish bars by the beach were my favourite, so delicious! Although every night we found ourselves in the same ice cream parlour, it was seriously yummy and the waiters were very cute. Me and my friend one night went to the strip which was really fun, however the next day wasn't as you can imagine! After a fantastic and lovely week sadly it was our time to come home, but I would most definitely go back again and I would recommend this to any family or couple. Below are some of fun and happy photos, enjoy! 

The Best of Amsterdam | Holidays to Europe

I think for many people who haven't had the pleasure of visiting Amsterdam they misunderstand what this inspiring and cultural city has to offer. There is a certain side to Amsterdam what I and many others call "seedy" but it is only a certain and small part of it. The rest of Amsterdam is truly beautiful, every little street and every corner has something different to offer, from cute vintage and antique shops to pancake and waffle houses.

Rijks Museum 

Amsterdam in fact has more museums than any other European city as well as hundreds of protected historic buildings found along the winding canals. The most famous museum Amsterdam is home to is the Rijks museum which holds 4 floors of over 200,000 masterpieces from artists such as Vincent Van Gogh and Rembrandt Harmensz. I could literally go on forever talking about all the different paintings and collections I seen but I would be here forever, plus it's best going unaware of what to expect like I did, you will find yourself quite overwhelmed. 

Dam Square

After a day of exploring the spectacular Rijks museum we headed to Dam Square which has some wonderful buildings, shops, restaurants and bars. We stopped for a drink at the quite famous Majestic  Bar where you can eat in the restaurant or sit in the bar to sample some of their high class and delicious cocktails, no guess to what I chose! Just off Dam Square is a handful of streets with big shops like River Island and Foot Locker so if you fancy a bit of shopping you wont be stuck for choice.

The Streets and Red Light District

I found the more you wonder the better it gets. Every time we went out of our hotel we got lost, we didn't mind as every time we did get lost we found something new and beautiful to see. I think it's probably the best way to see Amsterdam, obviously once you have seen all the famous museums and hotspots like Anne Franks House. Forget your map and get completely wanderlust in this magical, quirky, pretty city. 

Although it's not everybody's cup of tea it is still worth a short visit, the Red Light District at night is, well I don't really know how to describe it. I wasn't sure whether to punch my boyfriend in the face for looking or look with him! 

Our Hotel 

Seen as we were visiting for my 24th birthday I asked my boyfriend if we could stay in a nice hotel and he happened to pick the best hotel I have ever seen in my life! When we walked in through the reception doors of Hotel Estherea we were amazed, chandelier after chandelier followed by the most beautiful decor, big old grand father clocks, a florescent blue bar lit by pink candles and lanterns. Every little detail in this hotel is truly stunning. I fell in love with the hotel so much I had to find out it's history, the family owned hotel dates back to the early 17th century and has been passed down from generation to generation. The hotel has maintained it's elegant, charming and vibrant decor and every room in the hotel is completely different and unique. Every room has a Jacuzzi bath, walk in shower, TV and huge queen sized bed. 

The sad thing about my trip to Amsterdam is it wasn't long enough, I would have loved to have seen more in my time I was here like Anne Franks House, Van Gogh Museum and more, nevertheless our trip to Amsterdam was magical. One of the bets birthdays ever! 

Visit eShores who specialise in tailor made holidays and multi centre holidays to Europe. We have used them a number of times and found them so accommodating and helpful and their prices are fantastic! 

The Magic of Prague | European City Breaks

It has never been top of my list of most places I want to visit, probably because I was unaware of what the city holds beneath its borders. My view was quickly changed, this city is a magical treasure that is completely breathtaking, packed with magnificent architecture, culture, history and art.

The great thing about Prague is many of it's most famous attractions are all within walking distance of one another and even though the city is cheap you wont have to pay for taxi's back and to from spot to spot. I much prefer walking and getting lost in a new city anyway, you can get a real feel for what it has to offer so forget your map and get wanderlust. Here are the top things to see and do in Prague:

Charles Bridge 

  

Charles Bridge is spectacular, it is the most famous bridge in the whole of Prague which towers over the river Vltava, boasting 6 impressive arches and is lined with 30 Baroque statues of religious figures, angels, bishops, Jesus, the cross and more. The bridge is a total of 1,700 ft and was built in 1357 under the commission of King Charles IV. Across the bridge you will find a variety of buskers, painters, and people selling handcrafts and jewelry. It is a must see if you are ever in this wonderful city. 

St Vitus Cathedral and Prague Castle

I don't think even the castle in fairy tales can compare to St Vitus Cathedral! As you enter through the portal of the western facade, opposite the passage way between the second and third courtyards of Prague Castle you find yourself gazing up at the most beautifully detailed architecture of the cathedral. The Gothic cathedral is the largest and most appreciated temple in Prague which is a interment of remains of provincial patron saints and archbishops. The walls are covered in the most impeccable detail in stone carvings while inside the high walls beam over you to form a spectacular scene. The stain glass windows cast a magical site upon the walls when the light shines though, magnifying their beauty of colour and religious stories upon the walls. I was lucky enough to catch a beautiful bride having her photos taken outside, so very pretty! 

John Lennon Wall

The John Lennon wall is a fantastic to see, even if you don't appreciate graffiti or the iconic signer and writer (although I don't think I have ever met anyone who doesn't like John Lennon). The wall is covered in famous quotes from his lyrics like "all you need is love" and "war is over" as well as images and messages from the walls visitors. Literally anyone can go and write on the wall, though we was not informed of this when we went to see it so we missed out on that part. Hidden down a back alley on the other side of Charles Bridge the John Lennon Wall is a symbol of our very own familiar culture, music, art and message of peace. 

The Astronomical Clock and Square 

Probably the most beautiful construction I have ever had the pleasure of seeing! The Astronomical clock is built on one side of the Old Town Hall Tower and dates back to the 15th century. It's best to see the clock on the hour as every hour a small trap door opens and Christ marches out ahead of his disciples, while the skeleton tolls the bell to a defiant statue of a Turk. Below the spectacular astronomical clock are 12 medallions with signs of the zodiac. The old town hall is a striking building situated in the square which holds some great cafes, restaurants, shops and bars. The square offers a variety of entertainment from buskers, people dressed as jesters and knights, painters, musicians and more. 

A River Cruise 

There are many different cruises to choose from in Prague, I was lucky enough to get a Valentines Day river cruise with a 3 course meal as a lovely surprise from my boyfriend. The cruise set sail from the Czech Bridge and sails up and down the river Vltava passing Charles Bridge. At night it is truly beautiful to see as the lights mirror from the river waters creating a magical scene. The food was great too, we had tomato and mozzarella cheese for starters followed by salmon and potatoes for our main and tiramisu for dessert with a free bottle of white wine. The tables were decorated to celebrate the romantic theme with balloons, flowers, candles and heart shaped sweets. A fabulous way to spend our last night in Prague, I am a very lucky girl! 

Prague's Pretty Streets 

Once you've seen the famous hotspots in Prague, it's time to get wanderlust and leave the map behind. Losing yourself in the pretty streets of Prague will inspire you, you will find the most beautiful buildings hidden away in the back streets alongside some freaky buskers, quirky shops, and fabulous restaurants, even adorable little micro pigs! 

The only problem I can find with my visit to Prague is it wasn't long enough! If you're looking for somewhere extraordinary packed with history, culture, art, architecture and beauty then go to Prague! Put it on your list of top places to visit and just go. 

I was lucky enough to visit Amsterdam in January as well, not at all bad two countries in just two months! I am now thinking of visiting a city in Europe every month or two, especially when I found prices in Prague to be so cheap although Amsterdam is on the more pricey side, however many cities in Europe are also cheap it just depends where you go. You can visit up to 7 different European cities in one trip with a multi centre holiday offered by eShores travel agency or something more personal to you with a tailor made European holiday. Whatever you choose, explore Europe and its wondrous cities and hidden jewels. 

Valentines Escapes

Wouldn't it be great if we could escape to a romantic destination for Valentines Day? If you'are lucky enough to get away this Valentines Day but you haven't quite yet decided where you want to take your loved one, here are few of the most sexiest and romantic places on Earth.

Jukkasjaarvi in Sweden

I had never heard of this place until recently. This fantastic piece of art is re-constructed every winter and makes an incredible ice hotel. Not only is the hotel made of ice, which is completely spectacular to see it is also situated in Sweden Lapland, North of the Artic Circle where you can see the famous natural phenomena, the Northern Lights. Imagine you and your loved one all cuddled up in huge fur coats gazing up at a once in a life time scenery, unless of course you back to see the Northern Lights. A very unusual place to stay but breathtaking.

Venice in Italy

One of the more well-known and popular destinations, Venice oozes with  romance, culture and magnificent surroundings. An urban city surrounded by beautiful canals and busy little streets where you and your partner will get completely wanderlust. Take a Gondola down a canal while sharing a bottle of wine with your loved one, eat a world class Italian dish, fill your faces with ice creams and cakes and get lost in their heartwarming streets. There are many beautiful hotels to choose from in Venice that still holds the historic architecture and overlook the canals and streets.

picture sourced from: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/454793262343600281/

Paris in France

You probably knew this city would pop up somewhere in this article, regarded as THE most romantic city on earth, Paris holds some of the most incredible architect, history, art and restaurants in the world. Imagine you and your loved up at the top of the Eiffel Tower sipping on champagne whilst gazing over the entire city. It is best to see everything in Paris on foot, that way you can get lost on your own little adventure and  discover the true heart of Paris. You will understand after your unforgettable experience why its known as the most romantic city in the world.

New York in America

You and you're partner can reenact the famous scenes from When Harry Met Sally at Katz Delicatessen and fall in love all over again, with each other and the city. The timeless appeal lies in its urban streets and neighbourhoods which offer something new yet familiar. Another fantastically romantic place in New York is Central Park, you and your loved one can be taken round this famous park by horse and carriage and then enjoy the huge ice skating rink, whether you take part of sit back and watch the skaters it is truly romantic scene.

Ladera in St Lucia

More on the expensive side but certainly worth it! This incredibly romantic resort looks over the stunning landscapes on the Caribbean, the crystal waters and the sky high green mountains. Each room in the resort has only three walls with open balcony's. It is probably one of the most beautiful places I have ever seen!

Visit www.eshores.co.uk who offer multi centre holidays and tailor made holidays. Their multi centre holidays allow you to choose up to seven different destination to see in one trip, while their tailor made holidays are designed around your exact requirements. It's a great way for you and your loved one to see everything you want to see and do in the same trip, making it that extra bit special.