#Shelter Cove Marina Restaurants

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Shelter Cove Marina Address, Restaurants, Events, Boat rental, Map

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Shelter Cove Marina Address, Restaurants, Events, Boat rental, Map

Shelter Cove Marina Address

Nestled within the picturesque landscape of [Location], Shelter Cove Marina boasts an address that reads like a maritime dream—a destination sought after by seasoned mariners and coastal enthusiasts alike. This address, situated along the serene waters of [Waterbody], serves as the epicenter of a maritime paradise, inviting all who venture here to embark on a journey where the sea and sky converge in harmonious beauty.

Shelter Cove Marina’s location is nothing short of idyllic. Set against the backdrop of [Location]’s stunning coastline, it is a place where the boundless allure of the sea meets the tranquil embrace of the land. As you navigate your vessel toward this marina, you’ll be greeted by panoramic vistas of azure waters, where sailboats gracefully glide and pelicans skim the surface. It’s a sight that speaks to the heart of every seafarer—a promise of adventures waiting to unfold.

But Shelter Cove Marina is more than just a scenic locale; it’s a dynamic hub for maritime enthusiasts of all kinds. Boasting state-of-the-art facilities and a full spectrum of services, it caters to the needs and desires of boaters, anglers, and coastal explorers. Whether you’re setting sail for a weekend voyage, casting your line in pursuit of the day’s catch, or simply seeking solace by the water’s edge, Shelter Cove Marina stands ready to meet your every need.

The marina’s strategic address also places it at the crossroads of an array of recreational opportunities. Nearby, you’ll discover pristine beaches that invite sunbathers and beachcombers to savor the sands and surf. For those with an adventurous spirit, kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet-skiing are just a stone’s throw away, promising moments of exhilaration on the water.

Shelter Cove Marina isn’t just about the adventures on the surface; it’s also about the vibrant community that calls it home. Boaters from all walks of life gather here, forming connections and friendships that are as enduring as the tides. The marina’s clubhouse serves as a central meeting point, where members and guests can mingle, share stories, and celebrate their shared passion for the sea. It’s a place where conversations ebb and flow like the nearby waves, and where camaraderie is as abundant as the laughter that fills the air.

For those who seek sustenance after a day on the water, Shelter Cove Marina’s address offers a delightful surprise—a collection of waterfront restaurants that tantalize the taste buds with fresh seafood and coastal cuisine. Dining al fresco, you’ll enjoy magnificent sunsets that paint the sky with hues of orange and pink, creating a backdrop that elevates every meal into a memorable experience.

As you chart your course to Shelter Cove Marina, you’ll find not just an address but a promise—a promise of coastal adventures, lifelong memories, and the enduring beauty of the sea. It’s an address that encapsulates the essence of coastal living, where every day is an opportunity to set sail into the horizon, embrace the wonders of the ocean, and create a life enriched by the magic of the maritime world.

In conclusion, Shelter Cove Marina’s address in [Location] is a gateway to coastal adventure, a place where the sea’s allure meets the tranquility of the shore. Here, you’ll discover not just a marina but a world of possibilities—a world where the call of the ocean becomes a reality, and where every moment by the water’s edge is a cherished memory in the making.

Shelter Cove Marina Restaurants

Shelter Cove Marina, nestled along the captivating shores of [Location], is renowned for its pristine waters, vibrant boating community, and stunning coastal vistas. But beyond its nautical charms, it also beckons to those with discerning palates, offering a remarkable dining experience that perfectly complements its maritime ambiance. The marina’s collection of waterfront restaurants is a testament to the harmonious marriage of culinary artistry and the natural beauty that surrounds them.

Each of Shelter Cove Marina’s restaurants is a culinary gem, serving up a delectable array of dishes inspired by the bounty of the sea and the flavors of the coast. Dining here is not just a meal; it’s an immersion into the coastal lifestyle, a celebration of flavors that mirror the ever-changing moods of the ocean, and an opportunity to savor the freshest seafood and locally sourced ingredients.

Whether you’re seeking a casual bite after a day of boating or an elegant dining experience to mark a special occasion, Shelter Cove Marina has a restaurant to suit every palate and preference. Imagine sipping cocktails at sunset on an open-air terrace, the gentle lull of the waves as your background music, or indulging in a multi-course seafood feast prepared by acclaimed chefs. Whatever your culinary desire, the marina’s restaurants deliver with flair and finesse.

The Waterfront Grill, one of Shelter Cove Marina’s culinary treasures, is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. This restaurant offers an extensive menu featuring everything from fresh oysters and shrimp cocktails to mouthwatering steaks and decadent desserts. Whether you choose to dine indoors or on the expansive outdoor deck, the panoramic views of the marina create an enchanting backdrop for every meal. The Waterfront Grill captures the essence of coastal cuisine, blending traditional favorites with innovative dishes that showcase the culinary team’s dedication to excellence.

For those in search of an authentic seafood experience, Dockside Restaurant is a must-visit. Located right on the water, this restaurant embodies the spirit of the sea. Its menu boasts an impressive selection of seafood delights, from succulent crab legs and lobster tails to local catches prepared with a creative twist. The laid-back atmosphere and live music add to the appeal, making it the perfect spot to unwind with friends and family.

At Shelter Cove Marina, you’ll also find fine dining options that elevate the culinary experience to new heights. ELA’s Blu Water Grille, for example, is an award-winning restaurant known for its elegant ambiance and top-notch cuisine. Here, you can savor dishes crafted with precision and artistic flair, all while gazing out at the marina’s tranquil waters. ELA’s is a place where every detail matters, from the exquisite plating of each course to the carefully curated wine list.

For a more casual yet equally delightful experience, Scott’s Fish Market offers a seafood-centric menu with a Caribbean twist. This restaurant’s tropical vibes, live entertainment, and waterfront seating make it a popular choice for those seeking a laid-back evening with a touch of the exotic.

Shelter Cove Marina’s restaurants are not just about the food; they’re about the experience. They are places where laughter fills the air, where moments with loved ones are treasured, and where the beauty of coastal living is fully embraced. Whether you’re sipping cocktails at happy hour, enjoying a seafood feast with friends, or savoring a romantic dinner with a view, these restaurants create memories that linger long after the last bite is savored.

In conclusion, Shelter Cove Marina’s restaurants are a culinary celebration of coastal cuisine and the maritime lifestyle. They invite you to dine with the sea as your backdrop, to savor flavors inspired by the ocean’s bounty, and to immerse yourself in the charm of coastal living. Each restaurant within the marina is a destination in itself, promising an unforgettable dining experience that perfectly complements your day on the water.

Shelter Cove Marina Events

Nestled along the serene shores of [Location], Shelter Cove Marina is not just a place where boats and yachts find safe harbor; it’s a vibrant coastal community where celebrations, events, and gatherings take on a special maritime charm. Throughout the year, this picturesque waterfront destination comes alive with a dynamic calendar of events that invite locals and visitors alike to revel in the joys of coastal living. From festive extravaganzas that fill the air with music, laughter, and the enticing aroma of seafood to intimate gatherings that celebrate the natural beauty of the sea, Shelter Cove Marina’s events are a testament to the magnetic pull of the coastal lifestyle, where every occasion becomes a cherished memory.

One of the marina’s signature events is the annual Shelter Cove HarbourFest, a summer-long celebration that captures the spirit of the Lowcountry. Held every Tuesday night from mid-June through mid-August, HarbourFest is a family-friendly extravaganza that features live music, arts and crafts vendors, delectable food options, and a stunning fireworks display over the harbor. Locals and visitors flock to Shelter Cove Marina’s promenade to dance, dine, and delight in the sights and sounds of this beloved event.

For those with a passion for the arts, Shelter Cove Marina hosts a variety of cultural events throughout the year. From art exhibitions that showcase the work of talented local artists to outdoor concerts that serenade audiences with the melodies of jazz, blues, and classical music, the marina’s cultural calendar offers something to satisfy every artistic palate.

Shelter Cove Marina is also a sought-after venue for private events and celebrations. Its picturesque backdrop of serene waters, swaying palm trees, and breathtaking sunsets provides an enchanting setting for weddings, corporate gatherings, and special occasions. The marina’s event planning team works closely with clients to create personalized experiences, ensuring that every detail, from catering to decor, aligns with the unique vision of each event.

The marina’s commitment to community is further exemplified by its dedication to philanthropic events. Charity regattas, fundraisers, and environmental initiatives are an integral part of Shelter Cove Marina’s calendar, reflecting its belief in giving back to the community and protecting the natural beauty of the coast. These events provide an opportunity for participants to enjoy the thrill of sailing while contributing to meaningful causes.

Shelter Cove Marina also recognizes the importance of engaging the next generation of maritime enthusiasts. Youth sailing programs and educational events are regularly hosted to inspire young minds and foster a love for the sea. These initiatives aim to instill an appreciation for marine conservation and the importance of preserving the coastal ecosystem.

Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor passing through, Shelter Cove Marina’s events offer a chance to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of the Lowcountry. As you stroll along the marina’s boardwalk, you’ll find yourself drawn to the laughter of children playing in the fountain, the melodies of live music floating on the breeze, and the tantalizing aromas wafting from the restaurants. It’s a place where the community comes together, where strangers become friends, and where the beauty of coastal living is celebrated in all its glory.

In conclusion, Shelter Cove Marina’s events are a testament to the allure of coastal living and the sense of community that thrives in this waterfront haven. Whether you’re attending a lively festival, a cultural gathering, a private celebration, or a charitable regatta, each event at Shelter Cove Marina is an opportunity to create cherished memories against the backdrop of the sea. It’s where the heart of the coast beats strongest, and where every gathering becomes a coastal celebration to remember

Shelter Cove Marina Boat rental

Nestled along the scenic shores of [Location], Shelter Cove Marina is more than just a harbor for boats; it’s a vibrant coastal community that invites visitors to experience the joys of maritime exploration. One of the marina’s most enticing offerings is its exceptional boat rental services, which provide an opportunity for adventurers of all levels to set sail on the serene waters of [Waterbody].

The marina’s fleet of rental boats is a testament to its commitment to offering a diverse range of options to suit every preference and adventure. From sleek and nimble powerboats to spacious and comfortable sailboats, Shelter Cove Marina boasts a collection of meticulously maintained vessels that are ready to transport you to a world where the sea becomes your playground.

For those seeking an adrenaline rush, powerboat rentals offer the thrill of speed and the freedom to explore the coastline with ease. These vessels are equipped with all the modern amenities and safety features you need for a day of excitement on the water. Whether you’re looking to engage in water sports, go fishing, or simply cruise along the shore, powerboat rentals provide the means to do so with style and comfort.

Sailboat enthusiasts will find their dreams come true at Shelter Cove Marina. Our sailboat rentals allow you to harness the power of the wind and embark on a timeless maritime adventure. As you navigate the marina’s pristine waters, you’ll experience the art of sailing—a harmonious dance between wind and waves. It’s an experience that connects you to the traditions of seafaring while allowing you to create your own seafaring story.

What sets Shelter Cove Marina’s boat rental services apart is not just the quality of our vessels, but also the convenience and flexibility they offer. Whether you’re a local looking to enjoy a spontaneous day on the water or a vacationer seeking a memorable coastal experience, our rental process is designed to be hassle-free. Our knowledgeable staff is on hand to assist you with everything from choosing the right boat for your adventure to providing essential safety instructions and local navigation tips.

One of the most enticing aspects of renting a boat from Shelter Cove Marina is the boundless opportunity for exploration. [Location]’s coastline is a treasure trove of natural beauty and coastal wonders. With your rental boat as your chariot, you can discover hidden coves, pristine beaches, and secluded islands that are only accessible by water. Drop anchor in a quiet bay and bask in the sun, or explore the diverse marine life that inhabits the waters of [Waterbody].

For fishing enthusiasts, a day on one of our rental boats opens up a world of angling possibilities. [Location] is known for its excellent fishing grounds, teeming with a variety of species. Whether you’re angling for the day’s catch or seeking a tranquil spot for a bit of catch-and-release, our rental boats provide the perfect platform for a memorable fishing expedition.

Safety is of utmost importance at Shelter Cove Marina, and our boat rental services reflect this commitment. Each vessel undergoes rigorous maintenance and safety checks to ensure that it is in optimal condition before it reaches your hands. We also provide essential safety equipment and guidelines to ensure that your time on the water is both enjoyable and secure.

In conclusion, Shelter Cove Marina Boat Rental is your ticket to a coastal adventure like no other. It’s an opportunity to embrace the freedom of the open water, to experience the thrill of maritime exploration, and to create lasting memories with friends and family. Whether you’re seeking the rush of powerboating, the grace of sailing, or the tranquility of coastal fishing, our rental fleet is here to make your maritime dreams come true. With Shelter Cove Marina as your starting point, every horizon becomes an invitation to adventure on the water.

Shelter Cove Marina Map

Nestled along the enchanting shores of [Location], Shelter Cove Marina stands as a beacon for boaters, sailors, and coastal explorers. The marina’s picturesque setting, vibrant community, and abundant amenities make it a sought-after destination for those seeking the beauty and adventure of coastal living. Whether you’re a seasoned mariner or a land lover looking to dip your toes into maritime experiences, the Shelter Cove Marina Map is an invaluable resource for navigating this coastal paradise.

Designed with precision and attention to detail, the Shelter Cove Marina Map offers a comprehensive view of the marina’s layout, ensuring that you can make the most of your visit. Boasting an expansive waterfront along [Waterbody], Shelter Cove Marina is home to a diverse range of vessels, from sleek powerboats to graceful sailboats. The map provides an overview of the docking facilities, making it easy for boaters to locate their designated slips or for visitors to understand the marina’s layout.

Beyond the marina’s docking areas, the map also highlights key points of interest in the surrounding area. Whether you’re in search of nearby beaches, nature trails, shopping districts, or dining establishments, the map serves as a guide to help you explore the wonders of [Location]. It’s not just a tool for boaters but also a valuable resource for travelers looking to make the most of their time in this coastal haven.

For those who wish to embark on maritime adventures beyond Shelter Cove Marina, the map offers insights into local navigational routes, helping captains chart their course with confidence. Whether you’re planning a day of cruising along the coast, a fishing expedition, or a leisurely sail, the map’s navigational information ensures that you’re well-prepared for your journey on the water.

Safety is a top priority at Shelter Cove Marina, and the map includes essential information about safety protocols and emergency contacts. Boaters and visitors can rest assured that they have access to the necessary resources to ensure a secure and enjoyable experience within the marina and its surroundings.

Shelter Cove Marina’s commitment to environmental stewardship is also reflected in the map. It highlights designated eco-sensitive areas and provides guidance on responsible boating practices to help protect the coastal ecosystem. It’s a reminder that every visitor has a role to play in preserving the natural beauty of this coastal paradise.

The Shelter Cove Marina Map is more than just a navigational tool; it’s a gateway to discovery and adventure. It’s an invitation to explore the beauty of [Location]’s coastline, to embrace the allure of coastal living, and to create memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you’re a visitor arriving at Shelter Cove Marina for the first time or a seasoned mariner who calls it home, this map is your companion for navigating the treasures of this coastal paradise.

In conclusion, the Shelter Cove Marina Map is an indispensable resource for those who wish to explore the maritime wonders of [Location]. It provides a comprehensive overview of the marina’s layout, nearby attractions, navigational routes, safety information, and environmental considerations. Whether you’re here to sail, fish, dine, or simply soak in the coastal ambiance, this map ensures that your journey is guided by knowledge and marked by adventure

https://www.sbuyi.com/shelter-cove-marina-address-restaurants-events-boat-rental-map/

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number10

Pre-Event plannings

I had a grand plan, to be lawfully wedded to my bby on our 10th anniversary, 1 year after proposing to her on our 9th, in Jeju, in front of a field of flowers with a fantastical view of the sparkling sea. I even rushed and got the engagement ring ready before our planned trip to Korea in April! But alas, covid-19 had to happen and all was foiled. After the initial plan was foiled in Apr’20, we held out hope that we would still be able to travel by the year end.. but yeah covid gave us a great big middle finger, as yet again, cases skyrocketed and we were all but grounded in sunny Singapore. 

Finally, in Dec’20, I decided to propose before July’21! Since the ring and the JannPaul box has been hiding at the back of the closet for the past year, and i didnt want to put it off any longer.

i began to scout for and collate decor items bit by bit on carousell, shopee and other shopping sites. It was a painful process because my initial plan was to recreate “Venezia”, which was an ice cream cafe we went to at Sixth Avenue, back in our JC days before it bowed out of Singapore a few years ago. There was next to no mention of Venezia on google and I was also unable to find any useful logos of the establishment either! So that idea was scrapped. Next, there was the plan to create big cut-outs of either Monsta X or VIXX members who would seem ‘genuinely happy for the proposal’.. but once again, let down by google, as the images I managed to find were either too pixelated or not relevant enough. Sadly, that idea flopped too. In the end, I decided to go for a more normal but personal decor to surprise bby :)

Truthfully, there were many chances to surprise-propose bby, especially our most recent staycation at Park Royal Marina Bay, but I didn’t feel that I was ready to do it.. so I delayed it till our big dinner on July 10th. Why July 10th? SAF had the brilliant idea to schedule my ICT during our actual 10th anniversary date, so we decided that we would have our anniversary dinner earlier. Furthermore, after Gyu Bar, we decided that we could and wanted to try more fine dining. After much research and deliberation (between Whitegrass and Buona Terra), we finally went for Whitegrass, which had decidedly nicer deco and ambiance. 

The weekend before the 10th, bby suddenly suggested that after our big dinner, maybe we should go for a drive. This gave me a great idea - if i drove, this meant that she would have to come stay over, and then I would definitely be able to surprise-propose to her! I very easily agreed with her suggestion and went for a slightly higher-end car, an Audi. Thankfully, this rental was not far from my place and the rental wasn’t that much higher than the Honda Fit before. So far, all was going to plan. Then, we also decided that since we would be getting a car, we could travel slightly further out, eg. the East. We decided to go to Playground Ragdolls, which would be our first interactions with our dream pet for our new house! 

I ordered a huge preserved flower bouquet beforehand as well as a tiny flower-box, to be delivered on the July 9th, which was also my mum’s birthday. She requested to have chilli crabs for dinner, which my bro bought from Jumbo seafood. We had a scrumptious dinner that night, but extremely regrefully, I couldn’t invite bby to come over, because it would mean that she would see all the flowers and thus ruin the entire event. 

On the day itself

On the 10th, coincidentally, I had to take up a mover role, to help my bro move some of his guo-da-li stuff to his fiancee’s place in Pasir Ris in the morning. It was a very simple job that took up the bulk of my Saturday morning. After lunch, he sent me back and I quickly completed the deco and freshened up before leaving at 4pm to collect the car. 

Leaving at 4pm was an overestimation of the travelling time, but also to prevent any lateness. I reached the rental car location at about 445pm but could not find the car at all. Confused, i called the host and she was quite pekcek to inform me that I was 15 mins early.. i went ‘oops’ and apologised for my kiasu-ness. At least she wasn’t overly judgey about it. I took over the car and quickly got on my way to Lakeside. Along the way, the aircon vent handphone holder kept dropping everytime I made my way over a particularly high bump as the Audi aircon vent was different from the normal aircon vents i was used to, with horizontal panes. Other than the handphone holder dropping from time to time, the drive to Jurong was pretty smooth. 

I picked bby up at about 5pm and she surprised me with another street branded shirt, endorsed by Hyungwon of Monsta X. She even gifted me with a picture of him wearing the exact same shirt! I gifted her with the small flower-box and inwardly laughed as she whined about receiving another flower.. inside i was like ‘lol, wait till you get the one at night’. We drove off from Jurong to City Hall, which was supposed to get us to Chijmes in 25 mins? 

Oops, we will be so early! But in the end we spent more than 35 mins on the road, because google maps was being a bitch and not giving the correct directions and we had to circle round Chijmes twice because we couldn’t enter the place! Finally, we decided to follow the signs strictly and we managed to enter the Chijmes carpark at last. We wandered around Chijmes for awhile and took some pictures. I helped her take some pictures that she was actually satisfied with!!!! SDNJIADBNAIKFAUFAKLFDNA!!! 

After inwardly celebrating alone, we entered Whitegrass. Overall, the food was nothing to brag about, though the service was very good. Like what bby has said, the best things about the meal were the breads and the specially made financier by the Japanese Chef. The Chef came out to greet us and even wished us a happy anniversary followed by a picture of us hehe. 

Full af, we decided to drive to Sentosa cove to sneak a peek at the rich people but nope, not allowed to ba long long go in, so we rerouted to Palawan beach instead. well well well, no entry into the beach. hur. oh well, time to head home. Inside my mind was running in all directions, almost 1.5y in the making, it’s finally gona be time!!

We reached and parked in less than 30 mins and quickly made our way back home.. only upon reaching my doorstep that i realised i left my keys in the flower-box inside the car.. luckily my dad was still awake to open the door for us.

Once in, we discovered my room door was closed and i let her enter first. Once she sweeped her eyes around the room, i panicked a little and just grabbed the ring and knelt down. I was entirely FLUSTERED and my mind was blanked out. haha, i lost all sequence of events. i knelt at an awkward angle and i wanted to switch knees, at which point, bby looked down and saw me kneeling on both knees (facepalm ttm). but okay, eventually it got sorted out and we took some pictures, with creative advice from my fiancee (^^). i also told her the entire journey from the ring all the way to present time, honestly, without hiding anything. Tbh, i wanted to make it hella grand but I missed out on some deco and by the time i discovered, it was too late to order again. UGHHH. When we went off to bathe, it was already about 1am and we had an early morning ahead. We both went to sleep happy hehe. (i got myself a ring catto)

Ragdolls all day, err’ day

I woke up next to bby catto who suddenly wrapped me up in the blankets and took a picture of me -.-

anyways, after a quick breakfast, i wore bby’s present and went out. We went some place first, before heading to La Fez in the East. It was a Morrocan restaurant which had a very pink and cutesy exterior. The food was not bad as well, the bby ordered Shakshuka while I ordered the Lamb Shwarma. Not entirely filling but good enough for me!

 Next we set off for Playground Ragdolls.. but i think i missed a turn somewhere so we just parked at a nearby carpark instead. We wanted to walk to Tigerlily Pattiserie but changed our minds to head to Birds of Paradise nearby instead, since bby has been wanting to eat it. and hohoho, dark skies ahead started to thunder and shortly after rain poured down. We didn’t bring umbrella and neither were there any umbrella in the rental car.. so we decided to brave the rain. The initial rain was pretty manageable, a slightly heavy drizzle but manageable. The moment we were halfway to the next shelter however, it poured. and poured. and poured. Needless to say, we were both drenched.. and bby was wearing her Tory Burch too... nevertheless, we persevered and reached Birds of Paradise and got our ice cream too! (along the way we passed a mama shop and bought a $6 umbrella) We got roasted sesame and sea salt hojicha. Tbh, both were good but as we were practically wolfing the ice cream down and the quantity was really alot, the ice cream became pretty jelat after awhile. For the first time in a long long while, we threw away ice cream. Yes, bby was pretty horrible for throwing away ice cream, especially when she was the one who proclaimed she loved it. 

With our new umbrella, we eventually made our way back the way we came, dry this time, towards Playground Ragdolls! Since we were pretty early, we waited outside for a short while, before the host let us in. and wow, once in, we were greeted by 2 curious little Singapuras. At first glance, they looked like regular strays but on a closer look, they had a kind of refined quality that really separated them from typical strays. And then as the host continued her briefing, our eyes strayed to the ragdolls. OMGGGG all so floof and cute!! Bby and I settled down near the couch and started playing with an 8 month old female kitto. and omg she was so playful!! Immediate want! While playing, we didn’t forget to enquire more about the purchase process and also listened in on the other customers’ queries as well. 1 hour passed all too quickly, and it came time to bid farewell to the cattoes. 

On the way back to the car, bby remarked that she was a little peckish, so we decided to head to a drive-thru at marine parade.. but once there, no drive-thru to be seen!!! We stopped at the passenger waiting area for awhile to research but to no avail. Eventually we gave up and I drove her back to her house.

At her block, I helped to carry all the barang barang back up and I remarked to her that I was going to call her parents ‘Mother’ and ‘Father’ to hint them that I proposed. And I did, but apparently, only her mum caught it. Her dad didn’t, sadly. Unfortunately, I needed to rush back to return the car, so i couldn’t stay to explain further (Sorry Father, i will explain the next time i’m there!)

Anyways, I drove back to return the car and swiftly parked. The owner ‘received’ back the car without much incident also. Aaaaand that concludes mine and bby’s eventful weekend, in which we both had our relationship statuses changed from boyfriend-girlfriend to fiance-fiancee ^^. 

Honestly, I do regret not getting actual flowers for you back in 2011.. but lol, the virtual flowers confession did make our relationship more interesting though haha. Yet another interesting tale that we can tell our kids next time also. I feel so happy as I recount the entire experience and am so glad that it succeeded. This sat, we will be going to re-size the engagement ring so that bby will wear the ring for events soon!! can’t wait!!

[roundtheworldrambles]

Sydney, Australia

Day 103 – Melbourne to Sydney

Hannah and I went to visit the Melbourne Zoo in the morning before my flight to Sydney that afternoon. As Hannah was working in marketing in their head office, she was able to get us in for free, and acted as my complimentary tour guide! Although I had already see a number of Australian animals in the wild, the zoo was a terrific place to see the rarer specifies - including a platypus!

Melbourne Zoo Reunions with Hannah

Catching an Uber up to the Airport, I boarded my afternoon flight to Sydney – getting in just on time to celebrate New Years Eve! I arrived at my friend Emma’s home in Double Bay around 7pm – with just enough time to get ready before people began to arrive for their New Years party. I had a great time meeting all of Emma’s Australian friends, playing games, and celebrating the final hours of 2017. As the suburb of Double Bay is located on the south side of Sydney’s impressive harbour, we all left the party shortly before midnight to walk down the water, finding the perfect spot to catch Sydney’s world-famous NYE fireworks display.  The streets were packed with other people, the entire city coming together to celebrate! This will always be a memorable New Years Eve for me – the fireworks were more impressive than I could have possibly imagined, and the festive spirit in the city was absolutely contagious! We returned to the party after the ball dropped, continuing our party – in true Aussie style – into the wee hours of the morning!

NYE in Sydney!

Day 104 - Sydney

After much revelry the night before, we were slow to get moving in the morning! After cleaning up from the party, we headed out to Bondi Beach with Emma, her boyfriend Ryan, and their friends Allie, Sarah, Rhys, Andrea and Damien. We tucked into a delicious brunch on the leafy courtyard of Bondi Hardware, before heading down to the beach to enjoy the sunshine. Walking along the boardwalk, it seemed as though all of Sydney had the same idea. Thousands of people were gathered along the sweeping white-sand beach, splashing in the waves and surfing offshore. It was a perfect, picturesque new years day!

Bondi Beach

In the evening, we grabbed Thai food back in Double Bay and watched multiple episodes of Bondi Surf Rescue – the reality show featuring the famous lifeguards from Bondi Beach!

Day 105 - Sydney

Emma and I hopped on a small harbor ferry in the morning in Double Bay, heading into the CBD of Sydney. Nearing Circular Quay, the Sydney Harbour bridge and the white sails of the iconic Opera House were just as striking as I remembered. We spent the day enjoying the sunshine, walking around the Botanical Gardens and the Opera House, before sharing a pitcher of Aperol Spritz at the famous Opera Bar. Catching the ferry back to Double Bay, we joined Ryan and a group of friends for drinks and dinner at The Golden Sheaf, a picturesque music pub and garden bar near Emma’s apartment.

Sydney Opera House

Day 106 – Sydney

As Emma returned to work, her friend Andrea – a fellow Canadian and UWO grad – met up with me to complete the Spit Bridge to Manly walk. A spectacular 10 km coastal walk weaving through the bays of Northern Sydney, we spent a terrific day walking along inner harbor beaches and through native bushland, taking in the panoramic ocean views, complete with countless white sailboats bobbing in the sheltered turquoise waters.

Spit to Manly Hike

Arriving at Manly in the late afternoon, we wandered along the Manly Corso before grabbing a bite to eat and drink to share on the beach.  Manly had a terrific number of galleries with Aboriginal Art, where I was lucky to find a piece of art I loved! The complex symbology and icons depicted in the dot work of Aboriginal Art is truly fascinating, with the styles varying dramatically from region to region. The black and white piece of art I selected was representative of birthing circles, and the support that women provide to each other.

Double Bay

In the early evening, we boarded the Manly Ferry to return to Sydney. This famous green and yellow ferry has been operating for over 100 years between Manly and Circular Quay, sailing for 30 minutes with spectacular harbor and ocean views.  We sat above deck, taking in the breathtaking scenery – a perfect, relaxing end to the day.

Day 107 – Sydney

Emma had to return to work this morning, so I headed out to complete another urban coastal hike, the famous Bondi to Coogee surfside walk. Winding around the clifftops south of Bondi Beach, I walked past the iconic Icebergs pool, and the surf breaks around Tamarama and Bronte. The cliffs along the walk were chiseled into intricate patterns by the powerful surf below. Rounding the bends along the trail into more sheltered coves, I came across several sandy beaches, packed with sun-seekers, beach towels and umbrellas. The natural beauty of the coastline was stunning, and I could easily see the appeal of living in this incredible city.

Icebergs Pool

I reached the end of the trail at Coogee mid day, and enjoyed a patio drink at Coogee Pavillion before heading back into the city. My wonderful friend Emma had booked me in for a haircut that afternoon in Paddington – knowing that I was long overdue after months of backpacking! With my fresh chop – I headed out to meet her and Ryan at Charlie Parker’s, a speakeasy bar in Merivale, before tucking into dinner at a nearby Italian restaurant.

Bondi to Coogee Hike

Day 108 – Sydney

I spent this day relaxing and working on trip planning for the next legs of my trip - in Byron Bay and New Zealand! I returned to Bondi Beach and holed up in a coffee shop for most of the day, taking a break to wander along the boardwalk and pop into seaside galleries and shops. Not a bad place to get some life-admin done!

After Emma was off work, I met up with her near Circular Quay for a drink in the Rocks before we hopped on another harbor ferry over to Balmain, to meet my friend Nat, who had moved back to Sydney from Vancouver. We enjoyed a drink (or several…) at the Balmain Hotel, a quirky neighbourhood pub, and spent the evening catching up.

Day 109 – Sydney

My final day in Sydney did not disappoint! Emma and I shook off our mini hangovers with a morning yoga class in Bondi Beach, before gathering our bathing suits and beverages to head down to the Double Bay Marina. It was the birthday of Emma’s friend Nikki, and she had rented out a catamaran sailboat for the day. We spent the rest of the afternoon cruising along the shoreline of Sydney Harbour, swimming in the brilliant blue water, and enjoying drinks, music and good company in the sunshine. It was the perfect way to end my final day in Sydney.

Sailing the Sydney Harbour

[indear]

A Complete Guide to San Diego.

☕️ Best coffee shop

• Lofty Coffee Little Italy - try Mocha, they use house made chocolate instead of syrup

• Moniker Coffee Company - try Cortado (steam milk and espresso 1:1), Sparkling Americano (espresso+soda+lime)

• Better Buzz Coffee - The best mocha mint ever

🍣 Best sushi

• Azuki sushi - try “are you kidding me”

• Taka restaurant - try “yellowtail”

🇮🇹 Best Italian

• Civico 1845 - try “Linguine Alla Pescatora” aka spaghetti seafood 😋

• Barbusa - Sicilian style culinary

🇨🇳 Best Chinese

• Dumpling Inn คิวยาวมากกกก ถ้าไป 2 คนแนะนำให้ตรงไปนั่งที่บาร์เลย

🇹🇭 Best Thai

• Bahn Thai ข้าวเหนียวดำเปียก ดีมากกกกก

🥪 Best breakfast/sandwich

• Con pane rustic breads & coffee - homemade bread & bakery, best sandwich I’ve ever had, try rosemary and olive oil as your bread of choice 🍞

• Breakfast Republic - best known for egg benedict 🍳

• La Parfait - French styled breakfast crepes and pastries 🇫🇷

🍦 Best gelato

• Salt and straw - best known for any ice-scream with salt ingredient 🧂; salted caramel cupcake, smoked sea salt and chocolate crack

• Sundae’s at the del -strawberry sherbet

• Nado gelato -pineapple sherbet

🏨 Stay

• Sheraton Hotels & Resorts - marina (find good deal in Priceline, superb location, walking distance to the airport, bayfront, downtown, little italy, liberty station)

🚲 Bike rental

• Stay Classy Bike Rental - 75$/week/bike, book it online, they will deliver the bikes to your hotel

✅ Don’t miss

- San Diego Zoo

- Liberty station (San Diego food market)

- Hike at Torrey Pines and walk along the coast to La Jolla

- Rooftop at George’s at the cove (La Jolla)

- Ride a ferry to Coronado island and visit Hotel de Coronado (second largest wooden structure in the US)

- Bike from Coronado Island to Mexico boarder (Tijuana) along the beach 🏖

- Little Italy Farmer’s Market on Saturday (8am-2pm)

- Asian Food heaven at Convoy street *มีร้านบิงซู ชื่อ Sul & Beans พอแก้ขัดได้ แต่สู้ After You ไม่ได้ 😂

- Sunset at Mission beach

- Bike/Scooter along the Bayfront

- Bike to Shelter island

- Balboa park

- Beers flights at Stone Brewing world bistro & gardens

- Folk music at Piazza della Famiglia on Wednesday’s night

[architectnews]

Brilliant Prospect, Shijiazhuang

Brilliant Prospect, Shijiazhuang Commercial Building, China, Architecture Images

Brilliant Prospect in Shijiazhuang

12 Jan 2021

Brilliant Prospect

Design: Guangzhou GBD Design

Location: Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, North China

Brilliant Prospect Developed by China Overseas Land & Investment

People bring warmth to a particular space, while the space provides people with shelter and memories. Essentially, architecture supplies people with a “foothold of existence”.

The Existence of a City Depends on Memory

By naming the project in Chinese after the “Nanjing Brocade” –a traditional article famous for its cloud-like colors and intricate patterns, China Overseas Land & Investment pays homage to the heritage of a city, the place where the best fabrics in the country are produced: the “Fifth Cotton Mill”.

The mill has been a part of Chinese culture for generations, it is the prime example of how space can become a symbolic memory. Such is the connection between the mill, the city and society, a dialogue between architecture, space and people.

The space feels as if the designer had arranged a carrier inside a glass box to generate fluid forms and dynamic sculptures resembling the sinuous shapes of the Nanjing brocade or extensive sand dunes that transform time into organic musical patterns.

In Art, Past and Present Overlap while the Old and the New Establish a Unique Dialogue.

The designer takes elements from nature and memory and twists them into threads that weave an architectural brocade, using flexible curves to provide artistic tension to the surrounding environment, combining memories with physical space.

Memories materialize before our eyes as if weaved with fine silk threads. Countless flying yarns condense day and night into a winged sculpture, a threader moving swiftly between giant ribbons in space.

A fifty-two-meter-long and nine-meter-wide sculpture rises toward the sky and extends through the whole interior space of the property. Inspiration for the piece comes from Chinese brocade, revolving and dancing around, both intertwined and scattered at the same time, outlining the shape of an infinite loop, aiming toward the future.

“We highlight the cultural features of the cotton industry in China, using space as the carrier that connects the past with the future, through a dynamic momentum that outlines the beauty of life in bloom with unique elements from the past and formidable sights of the future”. – said the designer.

“Time” is the Essence behind Brilliant Prospect

The designer adopted a unique artistic language to define Brilliant Prospect –the project’s name in English. Such creative approach defines a distinctive landmark, composed of artistic and cultural elements.

And thus, sinuous curves grow around the space, weaving segments of time into particular groups, orchestrating multiple ideas into one. Like an epic opera, its magnificent forms fascinate people with a distinctive charm.

Unlock your Imagination, Open your Mind to a Brilliant Prospect

Complementing the main sculpture, an artistic staircase becomes the symbolic entrance to a time tunnel that distributes imaginative elements above and below ground. At the center of two sculptural curved stairs lies an installation called the “Time Shuttle”.

The designer sets the main functional zone of the property in a sunken courtyard where mirrored areas vast as the skies and lakes provide a deep depth of field, separating everything inside the property from the complexities of the external world. The salon area opposite to the book bar interprets the convergence of time with geometric shapes.

The whole space is bestowed with church-like sacredness and tranquility. It cultivates a life of elegance with poetry, wine, flowers and tea; gathering the essence of life through elements such as rhythm, softness and comfortable surroundings to enjoy the company of old and new friends.

The clubhouse is an extension of the household, a unique kind of companionship that further refines and integrates social circles. Once again, the “spindle” becomes the main artistic symbol of the space. This time, the shape hangs down from the ceiling, concentrating the light coming from a surrounding “ocean of knowledge”.

Thus, the designer transforms space into a petri dish of curiosity and creativity, awaking memories and shaping them. The space feels like a “dance frozen in time” about to begin again, prompting a breathtaking melody that transforms objects into lively and meaningful beings.

The designer hopes to create an artistic “choreography” between real and imaginary times, providing guests with endless possibilities from the future, in a banquet, meeting or party in modern times.

Brilliant Prospect in Shijiazhuang, China – Building Information

Project status: Completed Location: Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, China Developer: China Overseas Land and Investment Contractor: Beijing Mingyang Hanhai Decoration LLC. Design team: GBD Lead designer: Du Wenbiao (Bill Do) Interior design: Guangzhou GBD Design

Completion: September, 2020 Project area: approximately 2000m2

Main Materials: Terrazzo, Faux paint, Metal paint

Photographer: BenMo Studio

Brilliant Prospect in Shijiazhuang images / information received 120121

Location: Shijiazhuang, China

Architecture in China

Chinese Architecture Designs – chronological list

Chinese Architects Offices – Design Practice Listings

Beijing Architecture Tours

Han Shang Lou Restaurant, Phoenix island, Xiangqiao District, Chaozhou, Guangdong Province Architects: Jingu Phoenix Space Planning Organization photograph : MConcept New Restaurant in Guangdong

Xiamen HAIGAN Xiaoyouyu Seafood Restaurant, Huli District, Xiamen City, Fujian Province Architects: Xiamen Fancy Design & Decoration photograph : Jin Weiqi Seafood Restaurant in Xiamen City

Aedas Architects

Xixi National Wetland Park in China

Keppel Cove Marina & Clubhouse, Zhongshan, Guangdong Design: UNStudio, Architects photo : Tom Roe Marina at Keppel Cove Zhongshan

Chinese Buildings

Comments / photos for the Brilliant Prospect in Shijiazhuang Development page welcome

Shijiazhuang, China

The post Brilliant Prospect, Shijiazhuang appeared first on e-architect.

[m1kemedeiros]

STRAYA EAST COAST'N - Feb 1st 2018 (Australia ) After travelling to 10 different countries and living in Australia for 2 whole years I've finally set off today on an east coast adventure. I will be travelling almost 2000 kilometres from Cairns to Byron Bay with my gal pal Lauren. Island hopping, boat accommodations, beach exploring, cities and the surf are just a few things we'll be getting into. We took a bus 4 hours from Cairns to Townsville to meet the Sea Link Ferry in order to make it to Magnetic Island. With only half an hour to spare we ran around Townsville trying to get a few things before jumping on the Ferry. Finally "Maggie" Island, outlined in golden sandy beaches and national park. Magnetic Island is home to a small residential neighbourhood of locals, wild koalas and many more critters. It's a great tourist destination and if you're looking for a good time X-Base is where we set up camp amongst many other backpackers looking for a cheap/ fun accommodation. After a relaxed night at Base meeting new people and sipping goon(cheap nasty wine) at a sunset cliff, the next day we explored the island. We hired a convertible 4 wheeler to do some off-roading. We drove across the island to the Fort Walk, I'd say it's more of a hike than a walk but nonetheless it was stunning. Once used for military to store ammunition and camouflage themselves from enemy invaders the Fort is now a popular trek to spot wild koalas and capturing some epic shots of Radical Bay, Arthur Bay and Florence Bay. Including a 360 degree panoramic view of the coast when reached to the tip-top of the Fort. Later we did some SERIOUS off-roading. Lauren drove up and down an extremely steep road with potholes that were 2 feet deep and 1-6 feet wide. There were moments that I thought the vehicle would tip over but we had a cry-laugh about it and explored the 3 bays and national park. If you don't understand "cry-laugh" go slap your funny bone against something hard. After a swim in the ocean we drove to West Point the opposite side of the island, had some ice cream before heading back to base. That evening was well spent with a great couple of American girls, hostel games and loads of dancing. The staff lads at base were such great fellas to party with I felt like I had also worked there for ages. Fun times! The following day after pulling our lives together we headed back to Townsville from the island but had a bit of an expensive hiccup cause Lauren forgot her purse, but it could happen to anyone...all good👌🏼. We now are back on route, down the coast headed straight for the oh so majestic Whitsunday islands. Finally we made it to the small town of Airlie Beach, home to the Great Barrier Reef and gateway to the famous Whitsunday islands. After checking into our accommodation at Nomads hostel we took a stroll around this quiet beach town. I came here to visit exactly two years ago so it was nice to see what changes had been made to this small sleepy oasis. After stocking up on goon we met our new tour group at the marina. We spent 2 days on the Tongarra catamaran soaking up the sun and the sea. Unfortunately for the weather being slightly bipolar, causing major swells, it took ages to get anywhere. We took shelter in Nara Bay an enclosed bay hidden from the rough choppy water. The following day we made it over to the second nicest beach in the world- Whitehaven Beach. Pure beaming white silica sandy beaches, fringed in palm trees and surrounded by swirling blue water, just a few traits Whitehaven is famous for. A $10,000.00 fine goes to anyone caught taking sand from this national park but I couldn't help that a pound of it got caught up in my underwear and swim shorts. Felt lucky to have travelled to this heaven on earth twice ❤️. Riding the catamaran back to Nara Bay we met a hawk that flew down to the boat and we threw raw kangaroo meat in the air to feed it. That night was filled with lots of games, drinks and dancing as loud as we can in this secluded bay somewhere in the Whitsunday Islands. Before heading back to Airlie Beach we all took turns struggling to stay on a banana boat that was dragged around the bay of Nara. After the Tongarra after party, a night filled of dancing with new friends, we spent the following day laying by the gorgeous lagoon before heading to our next destination. After a 14 hour overnight bus we eventually made it to Rainbow Beach. Known for its beautiful multi-coloured sandy beaches and being the gateway to Fraser Island, Rainbow Beach is a small tiny town. We spent only one day here hanging out on the beach and bodysurfing before our next adventure to Fraser Island. The following day we met our new group of roughly 30 people that we would be driving up and down the 120 km long Island with. We were split into groups of 8 and in 4 separate vehicles that we had to drive on the beach along the coast of Fraser. Being very tropical, untouched and the largest sandy island in the world made it difficult to drive around but we all managed. Our first stop on the island was the stunning Lake McKenzie, this fresh water lake was so pure and clean with bright blue water and silica sands too... Like Whitehaven. After some group bonding on the beach we went to our camp off of Cathedral beach to set up where we will be spending a total of 3 days, 2 nights. Before dinner that evening we climbed these amazingly picturesque and extremely steep sand dunes through dingo territory. We climbed to the top of a hill overlooking a part of Fraser Island. The next morning we drove along the shore line to a cove that's called the Champagne Pools. This was a highlight for myself. The Champagne Pools are a series of natural lagoons enclosed by rocks and clusters of shell fish. As the massive swell from the ocean smash up against the cliffside, water rushes in causing bubbles to form all around us like a "champagne bubbly" sensation. Some jelly fish came through too but none were harmful, I picked a few of them up to show the others just how harmless these little jellyfish were. After lunch 7 of us arranged a cheap 15 minute scenic flight over Fraser Island. This was a very small aircraft that would dip and take sharp turns like a rollercoaster over top of Butterfly Lake and other sand dunes. The flight allowed us to see both ends of the island. Later we met with the rest of that gang at Eli Creek- a natural fresh water lazy river that we tubed down in the afternoon to cool off after all the excitement. To end our day of excursions we checked out a beached shipwreck from the 1900s that was one of the quickest boats in its time. Circling the world 5 times in use of medicine and shipping patients this ship was eventually beached and used in the war, later on in life weddings and other events were also held on it until it became what it is today due to corrosion from the sea. That evening myself and a fellow French-Canadian, named Simon teamed up as the "Canadian Connection" and made a big pasta dinner for all 30 of us. The evening was filled with great food and drinking games. Following day we headed over to TeaTree Lake for a dip before heading back. Tea trees outline this freshwater lake and the natural oils from the trees make the lake water an orange colour. The smell of the air and water was so fresh I swam for ages out to the middle of the lake. It was great, quiet and calm and my hair and skin felt great after too. I was randomly greeted by a duck out there. Later we made it back to rainbow beach where some people went their own way but some of us that got along stayed up played a couple rounds of cards against humanity (UK version). Off to the next place! A 2 hour bus ride later, we made it to the gorgeous Noosa. This wasn't very planned so we kinda spent the first day hopping from accommodation to accommodation until we found something available in this tropical surfers paradise. It was kind of love at first sight between Noosa and myself. Noosa is a small separated suburban area surrounded by dense national park full of wildlife. It has incredibly beautiful coastal views, upscale shops, restaurants, stunning beaches and three separate islands. It has a laid back hippie feel but is still clean and upscale.. Like a much larger Port Douglas. Lauren and I spent Valentine's Day together down by main beach. We treated ourselves to a fancy mimosa filled brunch, went on a 3 hour coastal hike through national park and later had an Italian dinner and movie with a few gals we re-met from Fraser Island. We spent our last day hanging out on sunshine beach. She went bodyboarding and I surfed, well attempted to surf. The swell was very large so I got kind thrown around but I'm glad I gave it my all and tried it out. Later we took a long walk into town for dinner and walked back to say our final goodbyes to our short stay in Noosa. I'll be back! *terminator voice*. I'm currently on route from Noosa, through Brisbane to the Gold Coast, the city on the beach. This "Miami" of Australia has tons of attractions to choose from so we decided to stay in the heart of it all, in Surfers Paradise. We lucked out with Happy Travels sorting us out with a free private accommodation at Bunks hostel, best hostel I've ever stayed at in Australia. Our first night out we met a group of travellers who brought us out to a karaoke bar. The night ended with a fat lip I got from swinging the microphone around during a Grease Lightening duet with Lauren. Slapping myself in the mouth with the mic I essentially gave myself a natural self inflicted lip filler (haha). The following day we just laid by the pool, took a long evening stroll along the oceanside and had a fancy dinner at the Hard Rock, well not so fancy and over priced. Sunday we walked one hour to Pacific Fair mall to do some shopping and it was a fantastic shopping centre that felt like it never ended. We later caught the tram, headed back to surfers and shopped around some more before having a late night burger by the beach at bar Cavil. That night we also pre-purchased tickets for the following day for....DREAM WOLRD!!! Dream World is the largest amusement park in all of Australia and Lauren and I had the chance to experience all of it. We went on a Monday, a working day and I'd suggest going on a week day because we had the amusement park and water park to ourselves practically. We even managed on going on the most popular coaster, the tower of terror a total of 3 times. Almost lost my voice by the end of the day. Our tickets included an entry to the observation deck at the Sky View tower back in Surfers Paradise too. We polished off our day at this observation deck, towering 77 stories over the Gold Coast at dusk made for some really spectacular views and great photos. It was a beautiful day and a phenomenal way to end our visit to Goldie, can't wait to revisit one day. FINALLY Byron Bay, the original reason why I left Canada to visit Australia was for this small hippie oasis. This true surfers paradise tucked away in the hills along the most easterly point of Australia. We took a 3 hour bus ride to the famous Byron Bay, a very popular Aussie vacation destination, home to celebrities and very wealthy locals. Shortly after arriving we did a two hour hike to the Cape Byron Lighthouse, the last of the great 19th-century Victorian era lighthouses. This walk has truly spectacular coastal views that wrap around the most easterly part of Byron bay. This was a must-do I'd recommend it to everyone, we even saw a pod of dolphins playing in the waves. Two of my great friends set me up with a two day progressive surf lesson with a company called Stoked, which was how I spent my Wednesday. I've been surfing in 5 different countries and I'm still not very good. This Stoked surf school taught me a few things I've been doing wrong and I eventually managed to ride a number of waves right to the shore. That night we met up with an old pal named Cheeseburger Charles and he took us on a wild night out to a small club called Woodys. Thursday was a hangover day. We spent the day being lazy but later in the evening we met with Charles and went to a really fancy Italian restaurant called Trattoria Basiloco. We ordered almost everything off the menu, calamari, pizza, lasagna, calzone, bruschetta and gnocchi. Unfortunately most of the time spent in Byron was rainy but the next day big, naughty Charles picked up Lauren and I and took us on a road trip for the day. He drove us up to Lennox head, Ballina, through Tweed and into the Gold Coast where we had a late afternoon at an enormous shopping centre. Saturday...our last day was still a wet and rainy one. I did my last class of surfing at Lennox Beach and it was much easier the second time around. The class and I got to relax in the fresh red waters of TeaTree Lake just opposite Lennox Beach after our 4 hour surf lesson, a great way to wind down after battling waves. We spent our last night out at a nice dinner in town. Miraculously on our last day the sun came through the dark cloud barrier that hung over Byron for days. I woke up the KRAKEN(Lauren) at 7am with good news about the weather. We ran down to the main beach of Byron and soaked up 4 hours of sun, I body surfed waves until it was time to pack our things and head home. We now both sit at the Gold Coast airport waiting to head back to Cairns. The east coast of Australia was an absolute blast, naturally stunning and I just had the best time with my gal pal venturing through the many different parts of Straya(Australia). Happy to call this country my home for the foreseeable future.

[debbiehross]

Cephalonia, Paxoa and Anti-Paxos - on our way to Corfu.

July 23rd

It was late on the night of the 23rd when I taxied from Argostoli town on Cephalonia to the airport, which is about a 15-minute drive inland.  The weary Travelers (Mark and Vanessa) finally emerged through the throngs of tourists, and we were soon on our way back to Awanui, where the Binnings and Chris waited.

The one thing that was becoming apparent with being on the Ionian side of Greece, is that our poor guests have to get from Athens airport across to the other side, either by another flight or a very long drive.  Whereas being in the Cyclades Islands it was only a ferry ride, or a very short flight.

Gaybrielle and Chris at dinner,  before I headed  to the airport to meet Mark and Vanessa.

I was thrilled when, the next morning, after fueling up the boat and a short walk around Argastoli, we were motoring up the western side of Cephalonia towards a fabulous spot that is regarded as one of the best beaches in Cephalonia, Fteri Beach, which lies just south of Myrtos Beach. A great start to their holiday.

Argastoli - the main port of Cephalonia.

Vanessa, Mark and I at Fteri beach - happy to be here at last!

It didn’t disappoint.  What a magical place.  Turquoise water, that is so clear the shadow of our hull could be seen sitting on the white sand beneath us.  The Limestone cliffs that fall to the sea, give a clue as to why the water is such an amazing turquoise. They are a pearly white, and a stark contrast against the bluest of skies.

Gaybrielle and I paddling around in the turquoise blue .

The white limestone cliffs dropping into the sea. 

We spent the day here, as our new guests started to unwind and slot into the laid back groove of Awanui life.  After paddle boarding and swimming the day away, and of course a delicious lunch  – we motored just a little bit further north and found ourselves pulling into the most divine little harbour town of Assos. An Incredibly charming and picturesque hamlet sitting on an isthmus and snuggled into the hillside.

A view of Assos with Awanui in the bay. The sky turning hazy with the heat. 

View from the stern.

View from the bow - nice spot!

This anchorage is so small that we were probably at the top-end of boat size that can fit in here.  There appeared to be absolutely no room for us, however Captain Kosta was not in the slightest bit deterred and confidently backed us in to the dock – right in front of two yachts.

One of the yachties was rather rude we thought.  So much so that I had to go inside the cabin, and not watch.  He even verbally abused Captain Kosta. Really!!  And Captain Kosta was equally indignant that no one helped with our docking lines. “Very rude people” he said, “it is not a private marina!”

Gaybrielle and John were highly amused and thought the whole maneuver, and subsequent sideshow, was brilliant.  We ended up in front of the two yachts with a line between them tying us to the dock. We had to get to and from the wharf using the tender, which was fine. It didn’t take too long before the dust settled, and everyone went back to enjoying the beautiful afternoon. However, I must say that neighbourly relations were a little tense.  Never mind. No one stays cross for too long in this amazingly beautiful place.

Looking across the bay of Assos, with Awanui in the distance.

Gaybrielle and I - enjoying a wee stroll around Assos.

Loved the blue door - anyone home?

A group shot minus John (the photographer).

We wandered the town, dined at a beautiful taverna, and all thought it was a little gem of a place.  The next morning at 7.30am we walked up to the top of the hill where an ancient Venetian walled fort wraps around the peninsula looking down on the town. A Greek fort existed here originally, and later in 1595 the Venetians extended it.  One thing we have realised since being here is how much the Greeks, throughout history, were invaded - either by pirates or by neighbouring countries.  And the safest place to be was up high and behind huge stone walls.  Many ancient fortresses can be seen around the coastline.

There is a wide paved road that takes you up to the top of this fort. It’s a fabulous walk and the views are breathtakingly beautiful. The fortified walls once enclosed an entire town, and it is massive. By 8.30 it was getting pretty hot, and the perspiration was running in rivers and dripping off the elbows. My personal thermometer would suggest it is now in the late 30’s.

Standing at the entrance to the fort - notice the paved path! Thanks to the EU.

Inside the fort are the sprawling ruins of the town it once protected.

A view from the top. With Awanui below, re-anchoring to let the yachties out.

On the  homeward stretch .  No one else around this morning?

Little did we know at this stage, but a heat wave was brewing and the mercury was to rise even more.  We were in for a very hot few weeks.

We were heading north now to reach Paxos by early evening. We decided to pull into Fiskadho on the way to show Mark and Vanessa the beautiful little town and get some provisions.  We free anchored in the bay and took the tender in.  After a late breakfast ashore, and a little bit of shopping - this time for a bit more that just provisions, we headed north towards Paxos.

 Heading back into Fiskardho.

About three hours later we reached Anti Paxos, which lies about a mile south of the bigger Paxos Island.  There is no township on this smaller island and it gives the impression of being uninhabited, however there are a few houses dotted over the island. We pulled into a beautiful bay, which once more had that divine mix of turquoise blues and a white pebble shoreline.

One of the many beautiful little coves on Anti-Paxos.

A typical lunch on board - fried sardines and salad, always with bread and feta.

The island is extremely popular with boaties and day tripper boats from Paxos, and Corfu.  It’s much better for swimming than Paxos but it is not advised to anchor here over night, so all the boats head into Paxos to secure a berth after 5 pm (when the ferries and tour boats leave for Corfu).

So around 5 pm, we pulled into the tiny harbour of Gaios town, which wraps around a small island at the entrance, making a curved canal leading to the hamlet beyond. 

The entrance to Paxos - this inlet wraps around to the left  leading to Gaios.

Gaios is chaos at this time of year.  Yachts are trying to berth, dropping anchors and backing into tiny spaces, fending off other encroaching boats, and generally making for more great entertainment while we enjoyed a cool GnT in the cockpit.

Wandering into the town of Gaios on Paxos on our first evening. 

The town is a bustling vibrant spot, with the tavernas and shops wrapping around the quay.  The yachts that are tied up here go about their evening ablute right opposite diners at the tavernas.  It made me wander how many salads ended up with shampoo suds floating in their salad dressing. That’s how close it is. We were thankful again to Captain Kosta for placing us more to the mouth of the harbour, away from the craziness of the town.  

All the boats backed into the quay where all the tavernas are.

It was fabulous though to walk in and explore Gaois as it is a very pretty little place.  We dined at a beautiful restaurant, where I had prawn saganaki (which I love). However, later that night, and all night long, I was awake with a very upset digestive system – to be polite. No more prawn saganaki for me!

Anti-Paxos - taken from Google maps showing the turquoise bays.

Back to Anti Paxos the next day to swim, paddle board and enjoy this unbelievable place that is hard to compare.  That evening, as the wind was threatening, we headed over to the mainland to a very sheltered bay called Mourtos in the harbour inlet of Sivota. This is a favourite spot of Captain Kosta’s as it is extremely sheltered in just about any wind. It is surrounded by a lush green hilly coastline, with a busy little port area, and many bays suitable for holing up. Once anchored, we took the tender for a blat around the various inlets, and then into the town for a reckey and a cocktail. It was a home cooked meal aboard that evening, filet of beef and roasted vegies - delicious - and it made for a nice change.

We mostly have breakfast and lunch on board, but have found that with the abundance of tavernas along every coast and in every town, it seems silly to be sweating away in the galley at night. So we tend to eat fresh fruit and melon, with yoghurt and honey for breakfast; a light salad with either octopus or freshly caught local fish for lunch, and then venture ashore for dinner. We have opted not to have a full time Cook, as it would be one more person on the boat, and we would miss out on trying the various cuisine options.  Also, we would probably eat far too much!  

View of the old fortress at the harbourr entrance to Corfu town. 

After a lazy old morning we upped anchor and headed to Corfu, which lies about 18 nautical miles north of Sivota.  We were heading into Corfu port by early afternoon, and had to secure ourselves to the outer dock of the NOAK yacht club wharf.  This made for a fairly rough night as the wakes of large ferries and super yachts caused surges that hit the concrete dock and tossed the boats about.  Luckily we held well, as Captain Kosta always puts out miles of chain, so our bowline was secure.  Other boats were not so lucky and our neighbour hit the pier with a large crack.  The following day we were able to secure a place inside the wharf and this is where we stayed for the next couple of days.

View of the NOAK Marina from the yacht club bar, early evening. 

The NOAK marina is the best place to be as the old town is just above it, and we were off exploring as soon as we docked.  The heat was becoming quite amazing, and the boys found a little bar to have a cooling ale while we gals had a look around the shops.  Corfu old town is incredibly busy, es;pecially in these summer months, but it has a charm all of its own.  It seemed to us to be quite Italianesque which must be because of the Venetian influence during the ……. Centuries. 

A very old town house in Corfu town, heading a bit of TLC.

John, Mark and Chris enjoying a cooling ale.....while we investigated the shops.

Later we joined them - too hot to shop!...Gaybrielle, Vanessa and me! 

I’ll start the next blog from here in Corfu as we stayed here a couple of days while our port anchor winch was repaired and managed to see quite a bit of the island.  Also Tumblr gets a bit miffed if I try to cram too much in …..so…

....to be continued...

[muellerewald-blog]

Portugal is one of Europe’s most popular travel destinations. Nestled between Spain and the Atlantic Ocean, it’s no surprise that Portugal has abundant seafood and beautiful beaches. In addition to this, the country has been producing wines for over 3, 500 years. Famous for its Port and Madeira wine along with a rich treasure trove of over 200 indigenous and exciting grape varieties, it remains one of the lesser visited countries in Europe for wine travel.

We’ve taken a look at five popular wine regions of Portugal and why it should be on your list of must visit holiday destinations. Read all of our Wine and Travel blogs in the series including Spain, Italy and California.

Douro Valley

The Douro Valley is a designated UNESCO World Heritage region and is one of the top wine regions of the world. It is home to the River Douro, the third largest river in the Iberian Peninsula, which runs for eight hundred and 97 km from the Spanish town of Duruelo de la Sierra to Porto, Portugal’s second city.

The Douro River and the Douro Valley are known primarily for Port, a sweet wine that has been produced here for two thousand years, along with less well-known red and white table wines. The ‘capital’ of the Douro Valley is a town called Peso da Régua, which is dominated by a huge Sandeman’s logo perched on top of a hill. It was here that wines were collected before being transported downriver to Porto. Régua, which straddles the river and has a lively selection of waterside cafes and bars, is home to the headquarters of the Port Wine Institute.

Top Tour: Discover the splendor of the Douro Valley on a full day trip to Régua from Porto, including a return boat ride. During a scenic train ride to Régua, you’ll see vineyards and valleys before you board a cruise ship set to sail down the Douro River.

Madeira

The beautiful island of Madeira is out on the Atlantic, south of Portugal and enjoys mild temperatures all year around. Funchal is Madeira’s main city, and one of its most beautiful. Whether you want to surf the waves, paraglide along the coast or spend a day at sea whale watching, there’s plenty of adventures to be had. The nightlife takes place in the old part of the city, where bars and clubs dot the winding streets between the crumbling houses, while the casino and marina provide a modern contrast to some of the more traditional parts of the city. Funchal is blessed with some of the island’s lushest scenery, from its public gardens to the colourful fruit plantations.

The vines here grow in deep valleys and steep slopes on volcanic soils that are rich in organic matter. Madeira is a fortified wine and is produced in a variety of styles ranging from dry wines which can be consumed on their own as an aperitif to sweet wines usually consumed with dessert. Cheaper cooking versions are often flavoured with salt and pepper for use in cooking, but these are not fit for consumption as a beverage. The grapes are high in acidity, which is a distinguishing feature of Madeira wines. Approximately 85% of Madeira is produced with the red grape, Negra Mole. The four major white grape varieties used for Madeira production are (from sweetest to driest) Malvasia, Bual, Verdelho and Sercial.

Top Tour: Madeira Exquisite Food on Foot Tours – the tour takes 3.5 hours accompanied by a qualified guide. At each stop, you will sample one or more elements of the Madeiran cuisine, usually accompanied with regional drinks or Portuguese wines. You will also learn about the history behind each of the restaurants, as well as Funchal’s heritage, often considered one of the best towns in Europe to live. You are taken through the old streets of Funchal to places that only the locals know.

Algarve 

A combination of perfect beaches, lively coastal towns and a fascinating Moorish history, the Algarve is a truly beautiful holiday destination. With secluded coves hidden along its rocky coast and plenty of cosy restaurants, it is a great choice for couples. However, groups will have just as much fun with the incredible nightlife on offer. For families, the Algarve offers many happy hours exploring the scenic Albufeira, Vilamoura and Sagres. It is Portugal’s best region to mix golf, motorsports or sunbathing with wine tours and wine tasting. The Algarve also has some of the best restaurants in the whole of Portugal.

The Algarve wine region is the southernmost wine region of Portugal in the far south western corner of the Iberian Peninsula. Although a small quantity of fresh styled white wines are made here, the wines of the Algarve are predominantly reds. The main white grapes used in the production of Algarve wine are Arinto, Malvasia Fina, Manteúdo and Síria, and for the reds Castelão and Negra Mole.

Top Tour: Algarve Tour with Wine Tasting & Lunch – on this private tour from Portimao you will visit several Algarve area wineries with a guide, learn about wine production in the region and taste some of the finest samples. Lunch is in the mountaintop town Monchique, where you will have a traditional Portuguese lunch accompanied by epic views.

Lisbon

Lisbon is the capital of Portugal and the country’s biggest city, located on the estuary of the Tagus river, on the European Atlantic Coast. It is continental Europe’s westernmost capital. Lisbon is also called Lisboa in Portuguese, so don’t get confused.

The Lisbon wine region is long and thin running north from Lisbon beside the Atlantic Ocean. Although the vineyards along the coast are affected by the wind and therefore the grapes do not ripen easily, just a little way inland hills and mountains shelter the region. Many top wine estates are in and around Alenquer, 40km from the coast. The area is a little warmer and less windy, allowing for the grapes to ripen well and potential for top class reds. Classic Portuguese varieties like Aragonez, Touriga Nacional and Touriga Franca, are found here.

Top Tour: Experience Lisbon: Walking Tour with Food and Wine Tastings. Combine Lisbon’s culture with its cuisine on a walking tour that includes tastings of Portuguese food and wine. A great way for food lovers to experience sights and local specialties, this tour provides an overview of Lisbon’s culture and history.

Alentejo

The wine region of Alentejo occupies 1/3 of Portugal, though it is one of the least visited areas. Covered with vast open countryside with undulating plains and rich fertile soil, most towns here rely on agriculture, livestock, and forestry. Visitors can enjoy an abundance of traditional wines, cheeses, smoke hams and sausages made in the region. Located 90 minutes from Lisbon by car, Evora is a picturesque town with interesting historical monuments, great restaurants, and a relaxed nightlife. The compact city has the second largest number of national monuments in Portugal, being second only to Lisbon. Highlights include an impressive Roman Temple, a majestic cathedral, intriguing prehistoric standing stones and the macabre Chapel of Bones. Evora is perfect for those who want to explore the wine region of Alentejo.

Alentejo has the most Atlantic climate in Portugal, with cool summers and mild winters that result in wine that is not overly ripe or jammy. The region is renowned for red blends, which feature Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon in addition to the non-local native varieties Touriga Nacional and Touriga Franca.

Top Tour: The Route of Bacchus – venture out on a fantastic journey to a traditional and genuine Alentejo farm 20 minutes from Évora. Experience the delights of Alentejo, meet the family owners, visit the vineyards, the winery and taste the wines accompanied by bread, sausages and cheeses.

The post Wine and Travel: Portugal appeared first on TravelRepublic Blog.

[toldnews-blog]

New Post has been published on https://toldnews.com/sports/worlds-best-yachting-destinations-from-antigua-to-the-whitsundays/

World's best yachting destinations: From Antigua to the Whitsundays

(CNN) — Anchoring in idyllic bays. Slipping into azure waters for a refreshing dip. Warm breeze filling the sails en route to the next enchanted spot. Drinks and dinner on board under the stars. Gentle lapping to loll you to sleep.

And repeat. Day after blissful day.

A sailing holiday is a passport to another — watery — world where land-based worries are blown away on the breeze.

Those with the right qualifications can charter their own boat. Some prefer the help of a skipper and crew, others like to take charge while sailing into a flotilla for shared travel experiences.

However one chooses do it, the life aquatic is not to be missed.

First, however, comes the decision on which tip of the planet to drift towards. Here are some of the best destinations around the world for sailing holidays:

Greece

A sailing odyssey in the Greek islands offers everything from quiet coves to charming harbors.

Spiros Vathis/Flickr

A land lapped by sparkling seas and seemingly more islands than stars in the sky.

With sun-baked beaches, turquoise waters, olive groves, deserted bays, rustic harbors with white-washed houses and spilling bougainvillea, Greece provides the perfect canvas for a sailing odyssey.

The Ionian, with Captain Corelli’s Kefalonia in the south and Gerald Durrell’s Corfu in the north, offers gentle breezes and easy line-of-sight sailing on Greece’s west coast. Charming villages such as Kioni on Ithaca or Fiskardo on Kefalonia are some of the highlights.

The stronger summer meltemi winds of the Cyclades chain to the east of the mainland, with islands such as Mykonos, Ios and the flooded crater of Santorini, offer a challenge to more experienced sailors.

Further east, the Dodecanese islands off the Turkish coast offer a compromise — not quite as windy but still untamed and authentic. From Rhodes north via Kos, Kalimnos, Lipsi and Patmos, the islands provide a snapshot of traditional Greece and as much life or solitude as you can handle.

Another popular area is the Sporades north of Athens, with islands such as Skiathos and the picturesque, tumbling town of Skopelos, the film set for “Mamma Mia.”

Or there is the Saronic Gulf south of Athens, an area of easy sailing and short hops, with highlights such as historic Aegina, romantic Hydra and cosmopolitan Poros.

Getting there: Flights to Preveza for the Ionian; Athens for the Saronic Gulf; Volos for the Sporades; Kos and Rhodes for the Dodecanese; Santorini, Mykonos and a host of local airports for the Cyclades.

Turkey

Buzzing Bodrum on the Gulf of Gokova is at the heart of Turkey’s sailing scene.

Dennis_Patty/Flickr

From isolated, pine-fringed coves to glitzy marinas and jet-set nightlife, the coast of Turkey offers something for every type of sailor. For those who want to truly relax, a traditional wooden gullet crewed by professionals could be the answer.

The epicenter of Turkish sailing is Bodrum, an international resort on the north coast of the Gulf of Gokova. From there easy hops take you to quaint harbors such as Gumusluk, small bays with wooden jetties fronting local restaurants such as Cokertme, or remote inlets such as Amazon Creek with an idyllic, away-from-it-all feel.

The Hisaronu Gulf has charming waterfront towns such as Datca, Selimiye and Bozburun as well as plentiful quiet anchorages. Sailing east past lively Marmaris takes you to the calm waters and gentle sailing in Fethiye Bay, with its scattering of secluded coves, some with a lone, rustic taverna.

At the head of the bay are the bustling towns of Gocek and Fethiye for more restaurants and markets in which to haggle for rugs and local produce.

Getting there: International flights to Bodrum or Dalaman.

Croatia

The Kornati National Park in Croatia is an unspoiled gem away from the crowds.

Dymtrok/Flickr

This Adriatic gem features historic towns, picturesque harbors and smart marinas, isolated anchorages and deserted islands in one neat package in the northern Mediterranean.

Stretching from Pula down to medieval Dubrovnik, Croatia’s coastline offers a wealth of sailing opportunities with reliable afternoon winds and more than 1,100 islands to explore.

The remote Kornati National Park is an unspoiled oasis — so stunning, in fact, it moved author George Bernard Shaw to write that God created the islands “out of tears, stars and breath.”

The Dalmatian coast south of Split contains the islands of Brac, Hvar, Vis and Korcula, the birthplace of explorer Marco Polo. There’s everything from quiet coves and gentle towns to buzzy cosmopolitan Hvar and Dubrovnik-light Korcula.

Beyond the forested island of Mljet lies the jewel in Croatia’s crown: Romantic Dubrovnik, a UNESCO heritage site, with its charming Old Town. It’s also must visit for sailing fans of “Game of Thrones,” much of which was filmed here.

Getting there: International flights to Dubrovnik, Split, Pula, Zadar.

Italy’s Aeolian Islands off Sicily offer a varied voyage among seven distinct islands.

Kuhnmi/Flickr

Sicily, Italy

Lying off Sicily’s northeast coast like a bejeweled pendant are the awe-inspiring Aeolian IsIands.

This rugged volcanic chain, named after Greek wind god Aeolus, features seven spectacular islands.

Jutting out of emerald seas, each has its own personality, from the active cone and black sands of Stromboli and the hot springs of Vulcano, to vibrant Lipari and chic Panarea, to verdant Salina and car-free Alicudi and Stromboli. Lastly, Filicudi was nicknamed “Bone Island” because of the pirates who died there after long sieges.

From historic Tropea on the Italian mainland, sailors can access the beautiful beaches and swimming spots, quiet anchorages and sleepy waterfront towns in which to savor authentic Sicilian cooking.

For those with more time, or flying into the capital Palermo, the enchanting Egadi Islands off Sicily’s northwest tip offer an equally isolated escape. Pretty Favignana is known as the tuna capital of the Mediterranean, while remote Marettimo provides solitude in a stunning setting.

How to get there: Flights to Lamezia Terme Airport or Palermo.

The British Virgin Islands (BVIs), Caribbean

Richard Branson’s Necker Island is one of the British Virgin Islands, a mecca for sailors.

KansasPhoto/Flickr

A sailor’s paradise of warm winds, deep blue seas, blissful beaches and waterside shacks for eating, drinking and soaking up the island vibe. Hurricane Irma caused widespread damage in the region, but yachting and tourism is already bouncing back and the sailing is as good as ever.

Tortola is the main island and the starting point for exploring the host of outlying islands and cays, with spectacular scenery, sheltered anchorages and superb snorkeling.

There’s Virgin Gorda, with its dramatic rock formations at The Baths; Jost van Dyke, the smallest of the four main islands, with famous joints such as Foxy’s and the Soggy Dollar Bar; the coral atoll of Anegada with sunken shipwrecks and spectacular sea life; and Norman Island, said to be the inspiration for the novel “Treasure Island.”

Soggy Dollar Bar, White Bay, Jost van Dyke, British Virgin Islands; +1 284 495 9888

Foxy’s, Great Harbour, Jost van Dyke, BVI; +1 284 442 3074

How to get there: Flights to Beef Island Airport, Tortola or to St Thomas in the US Virgin Islands and take a ferry to Road Town.

Antigua, Caribbean

Antigua is reputed to have 365 beaches, one for every day of the year, so what better way to explore them all than by boat? The warm, gentle trade winds, turquoise waters and oh-so picturesque anchorages make it a sailor’s idyll at the heart of the Leeward Islands.

Ashore, historic Nelson’s Dockyard in English Harbour is the throbbing heart, but further afield you’ll find waterside dining for all budgets and lively rum bars, perfect for a famous “jump up” — a dance session to the rhythm of steel drums.

Sister island Barbuda — 40 miles to the north — has more birds than people and offers a gentler pace with pink sands and coral reefs perfect for snorkeling.

The famous Antigua Sailing Week regatta is a melting pot for sailors looking for competitive racing and punishing partying.

How to get there: Flights to VC Bird International Airport, Antigua.

Steady trade winds, beautiful beaches and good harbors make Antigua synonymous with sailing.

Paul Wyeth/pwpictures.com

Windward Islands, Caribbean

Take a deep breath and inhale the exotic scent of spices drifting on the breeze. With reliable winds and blue-water passages, white-sand beaches and dazzling reefs, colorful towns and verdant hillsides, the Windward Islands will reward sailors looking for a true Caribbean adventure.

From pretty St George’s on lush Grenada, known as the “Spice Isle,” at the southern end of chain, you can easily hop to Carriacou, Petite Martinique and Petit St. Vincent.

The prevailing winds during the sailing season blow from the north east so many opt for a one-way passage south from St Lucia, starting at lively Rodney Bay before sampling the beaches and pointy Pitons of the verdant island.

Cruising further south, there’s Saint Vincent, the popular Admiralty Bay on the S-shaped Bequia (pronounced bekway), upmarket Canouan, tiny Mayreau lapped by aquamarine waters, and the spectacular reefs of the Tobago Cays Marine Park.

How to get there: Flights to St Lucia or Grenada.

Tobago Cays is an idyllic destination in the Windward Islands.

_dChris/Flickr

Bahamas

More than 700 coral cays stretch like a necklace into azure seas from the southeast coast of Florida. Gentle trade winds, sheltered waters and myriad marine life make the Bahamas an ideal destination for families and the less experienced.

The Abacos are the epicenter of Bahamian sailing with the lively Marsh Harbour as the base from which to explore the 120-mile chain of islands.

One day you can anchor off a pristine beach with crystal clear water such as Treasure Cay, the next moor up in one of the small colonial-era towns such Hope Town on Elbow Cay and New Plymouth on Green Turtle Cay.

Further afield the pink sand beaches on Eleuthera or the 365 cays of the Exuma group offer endless opportunities for exploring and relaxation.

The big-game fishing, and diving at sites such as Dean’s Blue Hole, the Abacos Train Wreck and the USS Adirondack is also spectacular.

How to get there: Flights to Marsh Harbour, Treasure Cay or Nassau.

The Bahamas offers gentle sailing, spectacular beaches and pretty towns among its myriad cays and islands.

Chip Gallent/Flickr

Thailand

White-sand beaches backed by swaying palms and jungle, sheer limestone towers jutting out of jade-colored seas and exotic flora and fauna are just some of the treats on offer on a sailing trip to Thailand.

From thumping Phuket, yachts push east into Phang Nga Bay and the Andaman Sea to explore this mostly undeveloped region dotted by technicolor coral reefs, remote fishing villages and world-famous beaches and honey pots such as Maya Bay, the location for the film “The Beach,” James Bond Island and the world-renowned Phi Phi islands.

Add in friendly locals — Thailand is the “Land of Smiles” after all — and fragrant cuisine and you have the ingredients for zesty Asian adventure.

How to get there: International flights to Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport or Phuket.

Thailand’s Phang Nga Bay and the Andaman Sea offers exotic sailing amid spectacular scenery.

The Moorings

Seychelles

The ultimate Instagram boast, Seychelles is a sailor’s paradise in the Indian Ocean.

Lying 1,000 miles off the East African coast, the archipelago offers the full castaway experience among 115 isolated islands dotted across aquamarine seas. The main yacht charter area is focused on the inner islands around the forested Mahe, Praslin and La Digue.

Decent winds, warm water, snow-white beaches, kaleidoscopic coral and exotic wildlife, such as giant tortoises, coconut crabs and whale sharks, make the Seychelles a Shangri-la for sailors.

From the main island of Mahe, yachties can island hop from one idyllic bay to another, mooring off brochure-worthy beaches such as Anse Source d’Argent, Anse Lazio and Anse Georgette before a peaceful night at anchor under the stars.

How to get there: Flights to Seychelles International Airport on Mahe.

The Seychelles is a Shangri-La for sailors.

Jerome Kelagopian/The Moorings

Tahiti, French Polynesia

Just the words French Polynesia are enough to conjure images of swaying palms, crystal-clear lagoons, blissful beaches and fringing reefs teeming with marine life.

The islands of Tahiti, Moorea, Raiatea, Huahine, Tahaa and swooned-over Bora Bora and are just the highlights of this exotic 118-island chain in the South Pacific.

With balmy trade winds, a consistent climate and a combination of sheltered waters behind the reefs and more exciting open-water passages between islands, French Polynesia is a watery world like no other.

Everyone from the artist Paul Gauguin to sailors, divers, snorkelers, sun-bathers and canoodlers are enchanted by the contrasts of turquoise seas, emerald mountains and cobalt skies of the Tahiti region.

How to get there: International flights to Papeete-Tahiti, hop to Raiatea.

Tahiti offers the quintessential South Pacifc vision of aquamarine water, powder-white beaches and palms trees.

Audrey Svoboda/Tahiti Tourism

Tonga, South Pacific

This Polynesian kingdom of more than 170 palm-covered islands is a sailing gem in the South Pacific.

Fewer than half of the islands are inhabited, meaning a voyage into the blue offers a true get-away-from-it-all experience.

Picturesque Vava’u, with myriad islets, lagoons and coral reefs, is the starting point, either for quick hops or longer open-water passages to deserted tropical beaches and idyllic anchorages.

Itineraries might take in beautiful Hunga Lagoon, a sunken volcanic crater, or unspoiled Port Maurelle Bay on Kapa, or friendly Lape where the locals are inclined to lavish you with a traditional Tongan feast.

It’s the stuff of quintessential South Pacific dreams, with world-class diving and snorkeling, sport fishing and humpback whale watching thrown in as standard.

How to get there: International flights to Fua’amotu Airport on Tongatapu followed by domestic shuttle 150 miles north to Lupepau’u Airport on Vava’u. Or via Nadi on Fiji.

Whitehaven Beach in Australia’s Whitsunday Islands is world famous.

Tourism and Events Queensland

Whitsundays, Australia:

Between the coast of Queensland and the Great Barrier Reef snuggles Australia’s very own chain of 74 tropical islands.

There’s the famous Whitehaven Beach, a jaw-dropping curve of powder-white sand, world-class resorts on Hamilton and Hayman Islands and reefs teeming with life.

From Shute Harbour near bouncing Airlie Beach, you can disappear into a blissful bubble of exhilarating sailing, remote beaches, sublime snorkeling and snug anchorages in jungle-backed bays perfect for evening sundowners on deck.

For those just after a quick taste of paradise, plenty of ex-America’s Cup and former racing yachts take tourists and backpackers on short overnight cruises to sample the silica sands of Whitehaven, the sublime views from Hill Inlet and possibly spot some whales migrating along the east coast of Australia.

How to get there: International flights to Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, domestic flights to Proserpine or Hamilton Island.

[noisykate]

Majorca

13 May 2017 (Posted 24 May)

The trip over from Ibiza was mostly brilliant; an average speed of 6 knots over 9 hours.  The “fair wind and following seas” of dreams and good wishes, accompanied by several lots of porpoises. The last 3 hours were a bit rolly, as the sustained 20+ knot wind built the waves up over the afternoon, and we reefed down a couple of times, to a half genoa and mizzen only, still doing 6 knots. Arriving in a little bay west of Palma at 11.30pm by moonlight, we found ‘Albatross’ and ‘Arctic Fern’ already anchored. We dropped our anchor between them, and settled in for a slightly rolly night, although the movement was much less than it had been at sea.

In the morning, we realised that of the nine boats anchored, we knew 4 of them, including ‘Gwendolyne’, the concrete-hulled gaff-rigged boat we met in the Rias.

The serenity was soon broken, with a constant stream of motor boats of all sizes arriving from nearby Palma, with varying degrees of competence. One motored over our trip line, cutting off the float. Fortunately, Howard and Caroline were watching and recovered it for us. The offending boat reluctantly donated 20 euros for a new line.  Another one spent 20 mins drifting through the anchorage trying to get his anchor down, with the spike of it wedged very firmly into his gel coat where he had obviously pulled it up last time without checking it, and docked it into the ‘keep’ upside down - ouch. Another one arrived, dropped their anchor and skipped off to the restaurant, leaving their boat gently dragging its anchor through the other anchored boats, causing one £££arge one some major problems recovering their anchor around it to move out of its way. The offending crew rocked up later, unperturbed, well fed; reset their anchor and sunbathed the afternoon away.

Ashore, there are some huge caves, allegedly carved out first by the Phoenicians. Or maybe by miners in the 14th century. There is, in typical Spanish fashion, no information anywhere on the why, the when or the how.  There is a huge complex clearly visible (and freely visitable) from the bay side, with some elaborate carvings inside, and some more portal-shapes (after which the bay Cala Portals takes its name) in the cliffs facing the sea – one providing shelter to some feral goats.

We have spent the last few weeks touring Ibiza; with David for a few days, then with Rachel and Nathan. We met up with Cousin Nigel, who lives - predictably - near the hippy market, in his aged airstream camper van.  

Rachel’s trip was supposed to include a trip to trendy Formentera, but the winds were wrong for it, so we went the other way, and anchored in beautiful Portinax. Unfortunately, the wind swung around overnight, leaving us rolling badly, so we upped-sticks at 2.30 am and motorsailed in the dark to Santa Eulalia, arriving there at about 6am. We returned to San Antonio via Es Palmador and Vedra, accompanied by dolphins for some of the way. Not enough to compensate Rachel for the nocturnal move from Portinax, though - so much for showing Rachel the glamorous up-side of sailing after her “near-death” experience in Scotland.  

The highlights of Ibiza; taking David to San Miguel, and watching him tear around the bay fighting for control of the oppy, and later a couple of days at Benirras, a beautiful little cove in the north of the Island, which we ‘shared’ with Albatross, Arctic Fern, and Spindrift. On Sundays, the local hippies congregate and ‘drum in the sunset’, with various drums and other percussion jazzing away for hours. In summer, they apparently continue until close to dawn, but for us, when the cool of the evening fell at about 11pm, they drifted away and it fell silent. In the morning, we walked to the neighbouring bay, San Miguel, and looked down on the anchorage we had taken David to.

The four boats then had a wonderful barbecue together on the beach the following night, making use of a rough timber balcony on a fisherman’s hut, watching the sun set over the sea, behind the rock guarding the bay.

The swimming on the first day was marred by ‘Medusa!!’ (jellyfish), which stung my arms and legs in several places before I was rescued by Mike in the dinghy. The next day, they had all gone, and it was lovely; the visibility fantastic, the bottom clear as a bell 5m away - underwater photo of a cuttlefish below! The jellyfish in question are clearly ‘poisonous’, but not drastically so, the sting about as painful as a stinging nettle, the sting-pain fading more quickly, although the weals have now come up again, and are itchy. Annoying, though relatively trivial.

Mallorca, so far (two days!) has been beautiful, but manically busy with other boatws, and therefore not particularly restful. I hope that as things settle down, we can find smaller anchorages that are out of day-range of the motor-boat crowd.  The ‘personal space’ around a sailing boat is quite significant – at least one clear boat length in every direction. The motorboaters take a different view, as they are generally stopping for a few hours at most, and anything less than actual physical contact is apparently fine with them. They are, individually, quite cheerful; stereotyping only very slightly: happy-go-lucky, fun types, with tattoos and boob jobs. Collectively, it is difficult to consider them less than a scourge, bringing with them noise, the smell of burning hydrocarbons, and constant jostling and movement.

A second day in the same place has been, if anything, worse – motorboats squeezing into ridiculous spaces, one or other of them constantly racing their tenders around the anchorage dodging swimmers.

At the end of today, it fell quiet as the last motorboat, towing the last ‘personal watercraft’ (jetski to you and me) hustled away accompanied by their loud stereo system and appalling choice of music, leaving us all bouncing in its huge wake. It was into the newfound tranquillity that Mike announced ‘we need to run the generator’. Let’s just say that I was very deeply unimpressed by this - that the peace of the evening, with the setting sun glowing on the portals of the Phoenician cave, the water sparkling - is being ruined by the din of our bloody buggering generator.  Karma, perhaps. I must be nicer to those poor motorboaters.

Now nearer Palma, to make contact with The Man Who Fixes Watermakers. Looks like we might be able to get a working watermaker for about 1000 euro. Ouch, but less than the 4500 for a new one…

Struggling to get usable internet – means taking the laptop ashore and buying coffee…

Now in Cala Pi, a tiny little rocky inlet, with a beach at the end, blue-green water – a lovely sail over here from Cala Islettas, where we spent the last few days with Arctic Fern and Albatross. Bus trip to Palma yesterday – nice enough town, usual tourist stuff, plus lots of higher-end clothing shops for the motorboat crowd. One of the marinas here is allegedly the ‘most expensive in the med’. Full of huge motorboats; a better visual symbol for the banking crisis ‘winners and losers’ would be hard to find.

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Moved on again; went back to Cala Isletas to meet up with Restless Spirits (Trina and Phil) the couple we first met in Den Helder, then again in Brighton.  They are having a short sprint round the med, courtesy of the Schengen agreement, which limits them to 90 days in the whole Schengen area, in any 180 day period. For the rest of the year, they are forced out of the area to spend their money somewhere else. This restriction apparently does not apply to New Zealanders; there is some special arrangement for them as recompense for the Rainbow Warrior episode, when people were murdered by the French secret service on the Greenpeace boat, then located in NZ waters.

We have now moved to Santa Ponsa, a large and pretty bay at the southern end of the island; shopping, washing, change the bed, a swim, catching up with all the others moored here that we know – two boats at the moment, but another 6 expected, meeting up for Lisa’s birthday on Thursday.

[immoservicespain]

Ref : 16724 - Villa For Sale in Altea

Newly built modern design luxury villa for sale with spectacular sea views in the Altea Hills urbanization on the Costa Blanca in Alicante. The house is built in 2018 on a plot of 800 m2 in the Altea Hills urbanization, 353 m2 built, the villa is distributed in 2 heights and is connected with interior staircase and elevator, has 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, living - dining room with fireplace, open kitchen fully equipped with Siemens appliances, infinity pool, garden, garage, underfloor heating heat pump, air conditioning hot / cold, aerotermia, storage room, irrigation system, automatic shutters, security windows. Altea Hills urbanization is located in Altea on the Costa Blanca of Alicante with the Mediterranean Sea opposite and the Sierra Bernia behind it, in what can be considered a privileged environment to the most authentic Mediterranean style. With enviable views of the bay of Altea and protected by the Sierra de Bernia, Altea Hills can be one of the most exclusive urbanizations of the entire Mediterranean arc, where the resident can fully enjoy the Mediterranean lifestyle at its highest conception, sheltered for the goodness of the climate of the area and for the level of excellence in the care of its facilities. The urbanization has at the entrance of a security booth with guards 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. A closed circuit TV that monitors the entire area and several patrol cars ensure the entire perimeter of the urbanization. It also has a license plate control system for all vehicles entering and leaving the complex. In Altea Hills the visitor can enjoy their privacy and tranquility with total security. The strategic location of Altea Hills, between the sea and the mountain, makes this residential environment a unique place. Very close to the urbanization are the Don Cayo Golf Club and the prestigious Greenwich Marina Nautical Club, one of the best on the Mediterranean coast. Apart from this, Altea Hills has among its facilities the luxurious Altea Hills Hotel, an excellent Tennis Club and an exclusive Health and Beauty Spa Center, where famous artists and sportsmen of world class come to rest. Altea Hills also has two restaurants, a cafeteria, three bars, an Irish pub, three outdoor swimming pools, in addition to those of each urbanization, heated indoor pool and two children's play areas. Altea Hills enjoys a special microclimate, with mild winters and mild summers, which invites you to enjoy a healthy life outdoors in any season of the year and to practice any kind of activity and sport, such as dinghy sailing, windsurfing, cruising, swimming, golf, tennis, hiking, scuba diving, fishing, etc. Altea is located 50km from Alicante, 10km from Benidorm and 130km from Valencia, in the province of Alicante, Costa Blanca. To the north it borders on Benidorm and to the south with Calpe. Its municipal term limits with municipalities like Alfaz del Pi, Benissa, Calpe, Callosa de Ensarriá, Jalón and La Nucia. Located in the bay that close Punta del Albir and Morro de Toix. In its municipal area there is a hamlet of the municipality called Altea la Vieja, in Valencian, Altea la Vella, at the foot of the Sierra de Bernia. Altea holds the title of "Cultural Capital" of the Valencian Community, endorsed by the numerous Art Galleries, Foundations of Prestigious Painters, "Casal Fester" that houses the 25-year history of Moors and Christians, Faculty of Fine Arts of the University Miguel Hernández and the Palau Altea. The Church Monastery of the Discalced Carmelites, La Torre de la Galera, declared of Cultural Interest, The Bellaguarda Tower, The Church of Our Lady of Consuelo where we can see the domes of the Mediterranean, the image and emblem of Altea, the old part very well preserved with its white houses, cobbled streets and viewpoints, the Palau de Altea and the promenade, will provide you with images that will remain forever in your memory. Along its 8 kilometers of coast Altea offers a wonderful diversification of beaches, coves and cliffs and the impressive Morro de Toix that closes the bay in the north. A wide inlet in which small coves and beaches follow each other until reaching the breakwater of the port that puts its limit with L'Alfas del Pi, whose beach closes the inlet at the foot of Punta Bombarda and the lighthouse of Altea. Along with a wide nautical offer, Altea has a golf club, located in the Sierra de Bernia. Among its wide range of beaches and coves we highlight, L'Olla, Solsida, Cap Negret, Albir, Cala del Mascarat, La Roda and of course the Nautical Club of Altea. Beaches of Altea Read the full article

[everyonethinksmynameiskayla]

Eggs & potatoes in a tropical paradise

Last week Brittany and I took a “ladies vacation” as my mom called it to Cabo Verde (until recently “Cape Verde” in English although it’s “Cap Vert” in French which is how I think of it since all the planning was done here). You could be forgiven for not knowing anything at all about Cabo Verde - it’s a tiny country made up of 9 also tiny islands off the coast of Senegal, just south of the Canary Islands. We visited three of the islands throughout the week, so I’ll divide this post up by island. I made a video compilation of all the little clips I took of the landscapes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hVfdJw9M1Pw (set it to high resolution so you can see the images better). 

1. Santiago - Praia side

Santiago is the biggest island (it takes two hours to drive from top to bottom and about an hour to do the width) and we flew from Dakar to the capital, Praia, which is on the south side of the island. We took the Cabo Verde national airline, TACV, which I was expecting, given that the flight was about $100 round trip and was going to be an hour and TACV mostly does island hopping within Cabo Verde, a puddle jumper plane with a bring-your-own-folding-chair to sit on type deal but boy was I wrong. The plane was the size of a regional jet in the US and pretty new and they even served us all sandwiches, which blew me away. Granted, the sandwich was a hotdog bun with some cheese slices, but still, I was so impressed.

We arrived in Praia in the evening and quickly made friends with a French guy who was in our hostel and he explained that apparently Praia is dangerous at night because of gangs so we went the three of us to get some food at a restaurant near the hostel. I was blown away by how dead everything was. It was only 8 PM and there was almost no one outside and practically every shop was closed. It was the quietest city, even during the day, that I’ve ever been in. The next day as we were exploring the city, I was struck by how small it felt, especially coming from Dakar, and how orderly and calm it was. It almost felt European at times, and occassionaly even kind of reminded me of Goa in India (Portuguese colonization being what the two places have in common). We went and explored the ruins in the old city where the Portuguese had first arrived and walked up to the fort. We came across an old abandoned bar/restaurant, which was wild - it's state wasn’t so dissimilar from the ruins of the old cathedral which were several hundred years old, but it was probably only a couple of decades abandoned (I would imagine that has something to do with weather wear). You could see all the old spots where there used to be a bar and bar stools and the bathroom, but it was totally gutted.

^The abandoned bar/restaurant

We ate dinner at a jazz club/restaurant downtown which was great because Cabo Verdian music is lovely and we got to try homemade “punch” which was everywhere and was basically rum with honey and coconut and tamarind (there are other kinds too, every sort of flavor you could imagine) and it’s so good. However I was massively annoyed because we both ordered the “vegetarian” dish which I was expecting to be like a vegetable curry of some kind which sounded good and I asked if it came with rice (the waiter told us he spoke French and seemed to be telling the truth) and the waiter said yes but then it came out and it was a plate with like 10 slices of raw vegetables on it and nothing else and I was absolutely furious because it was like 8 dollars which is completely insane given that most dishes in restaurants were in the $3-5 range.

2. Sao Vicente

The next day we went back to the airport at 5 AM, which, armed with the unfortunate knowledge that Praia is not a good place to be hanging out in the dark, was not fun because we had to stand around on the empty street waiting for a cab with our phones and passports in our underwear like idiots because the hostel owner never showed up the previous evening so we couldn’t ask him to call us a cab for the next morning (not that this was a surprise, he had messaged me before we left Dakar asking if we wanted to be picked up at the airport, to which I said sure, and no one showed up to pick us up). We found another woman standing waiting for something and waited with her, luckily only for about ten minutes before a cab drove by. We felt bad leaving her on the street but with the language barrier (Cabo Verdians speak Creole and Portuguese) we couldn’t get across that she could come in our cab to wherever she was going also.

Just as in Praia, when we arrived in Mindelo, the cultural capital and the only big city on Sao Vicente, the cab that the hostel was allegedly sending us didn’t come. I was still stoked about the hostel because it’s also a cat shelter so there were cats everywhere.

^ Some of the cats at the hostel; they had their own special area and every time I came in they would go nuts and start chatting away and meowing like crazy and trying to climb up me

Mindelo is much bigger and more alive than Praia and also absolutely gorgeous. The city is nestled in a half-moon cove with a lovely marina on the most perfectly blue water that looked more like the light blue Gatorade than the ocean. We spent most of the day sitting in the floating cafe we found in the marina enjoying the view and the perfect weather and tranquility and then Brittany went to nap in the hostel and I walked up to the old fort that looked like it would have a good 360 view. When I got to the top I discovered that it was private property but that sign was accompanied by only about 5 feet of fence so I just walked right by it to do a quick round and take some pictures, since there was absolutely no one around. Those pictures are on the photo blog. Then we went to the store and bought a bunch of chips and snacks and went and sat on the beach. We swam but neither of us had bathing suits so we wore our PJs, which was bizarre because that meant wearing shorts in public which I would never dream of doing in Senegal, but in Cabo Verde most of the women were wearing mini skirts and short shorts most of the time.

^ From the floating café. We stole the label off our Cabo Verdian beer 

We had been trying to taste the national dish, catchupa, which appeared to be some sort of beans and rice deal, but every time we ordered it they came back and said “no catchupa” (we were mostly getting by with Brittany mumbling in Spanish and hoping for the best, but sometimes when that didn’t work I would try French and then we would speak to each other in English and people would just stare at us in utter confusion and back away slowly). So for dinner we went into this little local looking restaurant and ordered some catchupa and Brittany was trying to explain that she was a vegetarian, but apparently the Spanish mumbling didn’t work because we thought we were getting catchupa with egg and potato instead of with meat - we were sitting there waiting and laughing about how funny it would be if we ended up with just eggs and potatoes when she came out with two plates of french fries and a fried egg. She looked really confused when we both broke down laughing. Every time we ordered in a restaurant after that we were half expecting to be served a plate of eggs and fries.

3. Santo Antão

The next morning we took the ferry from Sao Vicente (the island Mindelo is on) to Santo Antão, which was easily one of my favorite parts of the trip - I already love boats, plus the islands are so close together and both so mountainous that at any point throughout the hour long ride you can see both (those views are in the video I mentioned at the top of this post). Plus the early morning light on the water and the cool breeze, and there was a cafe/bar thing on the boat so Brittany and I were even able to get some coffee. 

^ Coffee on the ferry 

When we arrived we grabbed an aluguer, amid some confusion. The aluguers aren’t taxis but they aren’t buses either, they’re generally big Toyota 15-seater vans (in fabulous condition, we couldn’t believe it - and the taxis in Praia were late model Toyota Corollas which for some reason was hilarious to us…not quite as much character as my beloved dilapidated Renaults with weird furry seat covers) and you pay your spot like in a bus but unlike a bus they don’t all have a set route. Some do, some have names of towns and/or cities painted on the side and they just go back and forth between those places but others just go where they decide they’re going to go that day and pick up people along the way. Anyway, we were jostled around a bit by the competing aluguer drivers but eventually got one to Paul, the city on the coast at the foot of the valley that we were planning to hike. It was a striking drive, the edges of the mountains of Santo Antão are baren and dotted with dramatic cliffs and drops into the ocean below, which was raging and wavy like I’ve never seen. But in Paul, it starts to get really green, palm trees start to pop up and I’ll get to it in a minute but once on the interior of the island its lush and green everywhere you look. Paul, or Vila das Pombas, I never figured out why some people called it one thing and some the other, is a tiny but nice little town on the water that stretches the coast before shooting up into the hills directly behind it. 

^ Vila das Pombas 

Our hotel was a few minutes up the hill and owned by a really friendly Italian guy who spoke no English or French but enough Spanish to sort of communicate with Brittany. Despite the language barrier he tried really hard to be helpful and answer our questions about the hiking etc. and his little hotel, with just two rooms, was absolutely adorable. Plus I was excited because he had a cat, one of the cutest most beautiful cats I’ve ever seen, who was super duper pregnant - it looked like she had swallowed a football. She would come sit outside our room and purr so loudly the floorboards would shake until I opened the door and then she would dart into the room, much to Brittany’s dismay.

We got a different kind of aluguer, kind of like a bush taxi here in Senegal, just a pickup with some benches in the back, up the mountain(s) about an 45 minutes (it probably would have taken twenty if we didn’t keep having to stop and reverse for 100 meters down the tiny narrow mountain road to accommodate the occasional car coming the other way, once we had to do it three times before we rounded a single bend).

^ In the aluguer 

The hills just kept getting more and more massive - I suppose in some circles a “massive hill” is known as a “mountain” - and steep and green and there were little villages here and there but mostly just lots of banana and sugar cane and what I think was maybe corn and of course palm trees. We hiked the rest of the way up (about 2 hours of basically walking straight up on this absurd winding path) to Cova Crater, which is nothing special but the view from up next to it is extraordinary, especially since you can look down over the hills you just crossed through and see the ocean where you started and all while you’re above the clouds. Saying that walking back down was harder than going up would probably be overstating it, but it was not easy. In most places it was so steep that you couldn’t help but run down it failing your arms around like an idiot, and as we got closer to the bottom the dirt got looser and looser and there weren’t rocks and roots anymore and we were sliding around almost breaking our ankles every five seconds. But we made it down, exhausted and sunburnt (I put on so much sunscreen, religiously reapplied, and still got burnt to a crisp). We found a pizza place in town and basically dragged ourselves inside but it was totally empty and smelled like weed and then the Italian guy who owned it (I’m not sure why there are so many Italians living in Cabo Verde) came out from the back and told us that they didn’t start making pizza for another two hours because island time so we went back to the hotel and laid prostate on our beds half conscious until it was time and then we sprinted back to the restaurant and seriously contemplated getting two pizzas each. The pizza was great (Italians) and the owner, who spoke only Italian and Portuguese (it’s amazing how far one romance language gets you with the other, I understood almost everything that was said in Spanish and Italian throughout the week but since Portuguese has a totally different sound to it the same did not really apply) was so nice and served us some homemade “punch” and also gave us free shots of some sort of Italian lemon-y liquor.

The next day was quite relaxed because we were both basically zombies. We went to the edge of the island and did a short hike along the coast to a small village built into the cliffs called Fontainhas and then drank some coffee by the water before getting the aluguer back to the port city to get the ferry back to Sao Vicente. This time I stood all the way on top the whole time and it was so windy that I couldn’t wear my hat and I was half convinced that my face itself was going to be blown off. It was so windy I was terrified to take pictures and videos because I was worried about the genuine possibility of the wind blowing my phone out of my hands, so I white-knuckled it whenever I took any pictures.

4. Santiago again - Tarrafal side

We flew back to Santiago and stayed in Praia just for the night since we arrived late and couldn’t keep traveling until the next day. So early the next morning we got an aluguer to Tarrafal, the biggest city (which is not saying much at all) on the far north of the island. When I say we got an aluguer, I really mean we found one going to Tarrafal and sat in it falling asleep for two hours while we waited for other passengers and these two guys used some weird blue filmy material to tint the windows of the van. The drive was about two hours through rolling baren hills and dramatic peaks and then about halfway there the hills grew into mountains and we reached a certain point where you could see Tarrafal on the coast below but unfortunately it was quite overcast so none of my photos from the drive came out. We had been planning to hike in the nearby national park but we were so beat that we ended up just wandering around the tiny deserted city, or town really, sitting on the beach and going to bed at like 8:30 PM. We finally got to try catchupa, after a great deal of confusion and negotiations regarding Brittany’s vegetarianism, and while eating it it was good but it was perhaps the heaviest thing I have ever eaten in my life, I can’t understand how Cabo Verdians eat it for breakfast every day. It literally felt like someone had opened my stomach, placed all of the catchupa into it and then closed it again, and then it sat there like that for 24 hours. For dinner we had a plate of plain rice and some mild cheese cubes because we were incapable of eating real food with the catchupa still in us and I think our waitress thought we were insane.

The next day when we felt like real humans again we finally went to the national park, and even though it was a bit overcast (which did not prevent me from getting sunburnt again) the hike was beautiful - I love green mountains but I almost like bare ones more, because the closest ones look sort of brown but then they fade to purple and then to blue and the clouds cast crazy shadows over them that you can clearly see since there are so few trees. We were just congratulating ourselves on how easy the hike had been, since we started already high up and basically just walked straight along the top of the mountain ridge, when we got to a sharp turn downhill and a sign introducing the new trial which included the qualifiers « Difficulty: Hard » and « Path quality: bad ». Both of those things turned out to be true. Mostly because the path was in many places about as wide as one of my feet and it was basically three hours straight downhill. When we finally reached the town at the bottom where we could allegedly get an aluguer back to Tarrafal, we were disappointed to discover that our excessively vocalized fantasies about going to a little boutique in the town and getting some chips or a Kit Kat bar (which were strangely ubiquitous even in small stores) and some cold water were not going to be realized as the tiny town/village that we ended up waiting an hour in had no stores and also for some indistinguishable reason smelled so bad I thought I was going to pass out while we waited. But eventually and aluguer passed and we hopped on - when we got back to Tarrafal we bought chips and Kit Kat bars and then got another aluguer back to Praia and got cheeseburgers (and a veggie burger) and ate way too many french fries before packing up our stuff in preparation to fly back to Dakar the next day.

[yourboatholiday]

Interested in Corsica? Let us show you our 7 days boat itinerary from Cape Corse to Porto Vecchio.

After years spent discovering the beauties of Sardinia, have you decided to change your destination? So why not just change the island? A few nautical miles away from Sardinia is another wonder to be discovered while sailing with your rental boat: Corsica. 

CONTACT US NOW TO PERSONALIZE YOUR CORSICA BOAT ITINERARY

This french island-region has a lot to offer, both in terms of beaches and pristine sea, and because it is rich in history and traditions. Corsica is a fantastic island for a yacht charter, with unlimited combinations of itineraries for both sailing and motorboat holidays.

How to get to Corsica to start your sailing itinerary?

Obviously, if you are an adventure lover, you can sail to this island from the main tourist ports overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea such as Saint Tropez, Cannes, or the Principality of Monaco. If, on the other hand, you are looking for something less demanding, there are 4 international airports operating throughout the year in Corsica departing from the main French and European airports: Ajaccio, Calvi, Porto Vecchio, and Bastia. About twenty scheduled and charter airlines connect Corsica all year round.

Where to start your 7 days boat itinerary in Corsica?

Assuming that we have arrived there by air, our trip starts near the island’s northern tip and precisely from the tourist port of Bastia.

This city is not only an excellent starting point but also a respectable tourist destination. Walking through its narrow streets, Bastia reveals itself to be an authentic city. Its cantilevered plan, colorful facades, and architecture make it a fascinating city with the look of Genoese cities. From the historic center to the Citadel, passing through the Jardin Romieu and its Old Port, don’t miss the opportunity to visit it.

We set sail from Bastia and headed first towards the north and then along the west coast of Corsica up to its extreme south:

Day 1 – Circumnavigating Cap Corse

The Cap Corse is one of the wildest places in Corsica, it will allow you to discover numerous splendid panoramic points, typical villages such as Erbalunga or Nonza, or, if you love trekking, to take beautiful walks along the famous path named Doganieri.

Along the Cap Corse, you will find several Genoese towers and the archipelago of Finocchiarola, 3 islands classified as a Nature Reserve.

Day 2 – Saint Florent

For capacity, the island’s second tourist port after Ajaccio with its almost 1,000 berths, Saint Florent is often compared to Saint-Tropez as many tourists and some French and international stars spend their summer holidays here!

During your visit, in addition to taking a walk at the harbor, visit the narrow streets of the city and walk up to the citadel to enjoy a splendid view.

Saint Florent is also the main departure point for cruises to the Agriates desert.

The Agriates desert beaches are often ranked among the most beautiful in Corsica.

The Agriates desert is a natural site of 16,000 hectares located between the village of Saint-Florent and the Ostriconi valley, north of Ile-Rousse. This is absolutely not the classic desert with sand dunes, in fact here you will find exceptional wildlife and over 35 km of coastline.

Day 3 – Ile-Rousse and Calvi

Located in Upper Corsica at the north-west end of the island, in the Balagna region, the municipality of Ile-Rousse was known until 1848 with the Italian name of “Isola Rossa”. The origin of its name derives from the purple-red color of the porphyry rocks that formed the islets that make up the town.

The town of Isola Rossa has a marina with 450 moorings.

A little further south we find Calvi, a town known for its beaches and the crescent-shaped bay which hosts a 4.5 km long beach, bordered by a pine forest, which begins at the port entrance and extends along the entire bay.

Reaching Calvi, the first thing you will see is its large citadel perched on a rocky promontory. This imposing stronghold, consisting of 2 towers and 5 bastions, was built by the Genoese and was conquered by the French at the end of the 18th century.

Day 4 – From Porto bay to Ajaccio

Recognized as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, the Gulf of Porto is an unmissable destination during a boat tour in these areas. Characterized by its red granite cliffs overlooking the sea, among the sites not to be missed are the Piana Calanques, the Girolata peninsula, and the Scandola nature reserve.

Founded by the Genoese in 1492, Ajaccio has around 65,000 inhabitants and is renowned for its historic center, golden beaches, crystal clear sea, and the characteristic promontories that surround it.

The historic center has the characteristics of the past Genoese cities with narrow and colorful streets, squares, white terraces, and typical markets.

Named Imperial City, Ajaccio is world-famous for being the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte.

In fact, there are many streets dedicated to him and to his businesses such as Cours Napoléon, rue du Roi de Rome, Viale del Primo Consul, Place Austerlitz.

During a visit to the city, you cannot miss a visit to his birthplace as well as the Giuseppina gardens (Napoleon’s wife).

Day 5 – Valinco bay

The Gulf of Valinco is certainly one of the most fascinating Corsican regions.

It is nestled between the Ajaccio bay, located further north on the west coast of the island, and the far south. It represents the perfect combination of magnificent fine sand beaches and coves and perfectly preserved natural heritage.

Among the most characteristic localities, we find Propriano, an ancient city but renovated in the 90s which now offers a thriving marina and excellent beaches. Olmeto, a typical Corse small village characterized by numerous stone-built houses and a magnificent beach of fine sand: Olmeto Plage.

Another source of attraction is the famous Caldane baths. It is a natural source of sulfurous waters that spring at a temperature of 38 degrees hidden in the small village of Chialza.

Day 6 – Bonifacio

A small village of just 2,600 inhabitants, Bonifacio is perched on a limestone fjord of incredible beauty and overlooks the famous “Bocche di Bonifacio”, the sea that separates Corsica from Sardinia.

Bonifacio has an important past told by churches, monuments, ancient buildings, and numerous historical testimonies dating back to 6,500 years ago.

Today Bonifacio lives mainly on tourism. Very lively in summer, it is full of typical bars and restaurants such as the famous “Fishermen’s Port” excavated in an internal cave. The most beautiful part of the town is its historic center, divided into the Upper Town and the Old Town and characterized by winding streets, squares, and churches overlooking the sea.

The coves scattered among its cliffs are countless. Among the many sandy beaches, we recommend those of Cala Longa and Palombaggia.

Rondinara beach deserves a separate note. With its shell shape, it is composed of fine sand and overlooks a turquoise and shallow sea. For many people, it is the most beautiful beach in Corsica.

Day 7 – Porto-Vecchio

From Bonifacio, briefly going up the Corse east coast, you finally come to Porto Vecchio, a very popular tourist town that has managed to build a refined destination image thanks to a well-kept historic center with elegant shops found especially along with with the beautiful Rue Borgo. Today this locality hosts an artistic and cultural heritage of great interest. Nevertheless in its surroundings is possible to find some of the most beautiful beaches of Corsica such as Santa Giulia, a beach surrounded by mountains and well sheltered characterized by fine sand and very transparent water, or the Saint Cyprien one, located about 11 km from Porto Vecchio and characterized by a golden sand long beach that stretches for a few kilometers.

Depending on your available time, you may now decide to head to another marine wonder, the La Maddalena National Park, a beautiful set of protected islands between Corsica and Sardinia. However, this is a matter for a future article!

If in the meantime you are feeling inspired, do not waste time and contact Your Boat Holiday for any kind of information on a sailing holiday in Corsica!

Contact  now YBH Charter Brokers:

You can contact us by sending an email at ask@yourboatholiday.com or by phone, calling +39 33436 00997, available also on WhatsApp for both calls and texting.

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[architectnews]

Dorset Architecture: Buildings, Architects

Dorset Architecture, Architects, Houses, South West English Property, Projects News

Dorset Buildings : Architecture

Contemporary Architectural Developments in Dorset: Built Environment in southwest England, UK

post updated 22 Oct 2020

Dorset Building News

Dorset Architecture News – latest additions to this page, arranged chronologically:

Fisherman’s Dock, Poole

Plans submitted for landmark regeneration project in Poole

London: 22nd October 2020 – MHA has today announced that a planning application has been submitted for the development of Fisherman’s Dock, located adjacent to the Marina in the heart of Poole. A key vantage point along Poole’s historic Quay, the application looks to further enhance the iconic setting through a comprehensive regeneration project, which will see the construction of 228 apartments, a 118 bed boutique hotel, complete with rooftop restaurant and bar and commercial space.

With unprecedented views overlooking the harbour towards Brownsea Island, the new private and affordable apartments will be spread across four separate and distinctive residential buildings designed to reflect Poole’s quayside heritage.

The proposed hotel and 8,600 sq.ft of commercial space available for a range of uses, including leisure and retail, will cater to Poole’s growing tourism business, attracting visitors and creating much-needed employment opportunities in the process, whilst providing an enhanced and active frontage to the Quay. 

As a result of Covid-19, MHA was required to conduct a virtual public consultation for this project. With the help of its dedicated project team, a consultation website and animated sketch video were created, with a specific platform enabling local residents and businesses to comment and interact with the development proposals.

Hossein Abedinzadeh, Founder of MHA commented: ‘This project is inspired by the rich history of the site and its local surroundings; not only will Fisherman’s Dock regenerate this part of Poole, it will also give back to the local community with the provision of valuable homes and employment opportunities. This fantastic project will embrace the heritage of the site and create a prime cultural, commercial and residential destination in the heart of Poole.”

About MHA:   MHA is a diverse property company headquartered in central London with regional offices in both Birmingham and Brighton. For MHA it is about integrity, discipline and building trusted relationships that should stand the test of time. The company’s warm and sensitive approach and empathy with the vision of planners, enables MHA to unlock the potential of bricks and mortar, old and new, with the experience, passion and dedication of its team, and tailored strategies to suit the unique characteristics of each project. MHA is passionate and committed to finding solutions for challenging property projects throughout the UK.

10 Apr 2019 AUB Student Housing, Wallisdown, Poole Architect: Design Engine image from architects office AUB Student Housing £24m student halls of residence scheme for AUB Student Housing starts on site.

18 Sep 2017 Castle Cove Houses, Portland Harbour Architects: AR Design Studio image courtesy of architects office Castle Cove Properties in Dorset Situated on the Jurrasic Coast, the three house development sits above the public beach Castle Cove, overlooking the Portland Harbour.

17 Sep 2017 Woodsman’s Treehouse in Dorset Architects: Brownlie Ernst and Marks Limited photo courtesy of Wood Awards Woodsman’s Treehouse Dorset Building – shortlisted for Wood Awards Woodsman’s Treehouse is a two-person residential retreat at Crafty Camping & Woodland Workshop, a rural campus offering green woodworking courses and accommodation in a woodland. It was self-built by a team of skilled furniture makers and green wood craftsmen.

15 Aug 2017 Sawmill Shelter at AA Hooke Park , Beaminster, Dorset, Southern England, UK Design: Architectural Association Design and Make students wirth Aurp Engineers image courtesy of Wood Awards Sawmill Shelter Hooke Park Building The Saw-mill Shelter, located in the Architectural Association estate, was designed and built by students with the help of the school faculty and Arup engineers.

3 May 2016 RIBA South West Awards Winners in 2016 Regional Award-winning buildings in Dorset:

Bridport Household Recycling Centre, Bridport: photograph : Peter Cook

Drawing Studio, Poole: photograph : Richard Bryant

Student Services Building, Arts University Bournemouth, Poole: photograph : Nick Kane

RIBA South West Awards 2016

Bournemouth Landmark Design Competition Zaha Hadid Architects shortlisted in the Bournemouth seafront competition to design a £25m landmark project, reports the Architect’s Journal. This design competition was launched to design a cultural-led mixed-use development overlooking Bournemouth’s world renowned seafront. The Bournemouth Development Company, a joint venture between Bournemouth Borough Council and Morgan Sindall Investments, sought expressions of interest for the design of a landmark development yards from the town’s multi-award-winning seven-mile-long beach. Bournemouth Design Competition – 22 Mar 2016

State of the art drawing studio opened by Dame Zaha Hadid at Arts University Bournemouth Design: Sir Peter Cook, CRAB Studio photo from architect Higher Education Building in Dorset – 3 Mar 2016 AUB announce the opening of its new drawing studio, the first of its kind to be built in the UK for 100 years.

AA Architecture Competition Design Competition for the new central academic facility at Hooke Park: AA Architecture Competition in Dorset The AA community is invited to take part in an ideas competition for the new central academic facility at Hooke Park. A design and learning strategy is sought that will inform the design development and construction of Wakeford Hall.

Staithe End – 31 Jul 2013 Design: Henry Goss Architects photo from architect This four bed private house on the banks of Christchurch Harbour represents a real coup and a major precedent for high quality contemporary architecture in the most sensitive of historic environments.

Twin Sails Bridge, Poole Design: Architect: Wilkinson Eyre ; Lighting Design: Speirs + Major photograph © Dave Morris / Speirs + Major Twin Sails Bridge Poole – 18 Jun 2012 A project that had been 30 years in the making, Poole’s civic leaders believe their new Twin Sails Bridge is the key to the regeneration of the town. The challenge for lighting designers Speirs + Major was to use light to encourage people to engage with the structure after dark, creating a beautiful civic feature both when the bridge is open and when it is closed.

Dorset Building – Recent Designs

Poole Harbour 2011- Design: ADAM Architecture – Alternative Proposal picture from ADAM Architecture Poole Harbour – 4 Oct 2011 ADAM Urbanism has stepped in with an alternative proposal to try and overturn a new development in the south-coast town of Poole. The Council is due to decide on a controversial re-development on the quay next to the old town, submitted by developer Neptune Consultants with HKR Architects.

Canford School Chapel 2011- Design: Bennetts Associates image © Stale Eriksens Canford School Chapel Award-winning architect Bennetts Associates has won the competition to design a new Chapel and music school in the grounds of Charles Barry’s Grade 1 Listed Canford School in Dorset.

Located in 250 acres of mature parkland, the school has chosen to position the chapel at the edge of an area of formal gardens which provide the setting for the main school buildings.

Dorset Architecture

Major Dorset Building Projects, alphabetical:

Baden-Powell Outdoor Centre, Brownsea Island, Poole 2008 Wilkinson King Architects

Boscombe Library & housing, Boscombe, east Dorset 2007 Hawkins Brown £2.4m Open design competition winner 2004 For Bournemouth Council & East Dorset Housing Association : 24 flats

Bournemouth Library 2003 BDP Bournemouth building : PM’s Award Winner 2003

Faith House, Holton Lee 2002 Tony Fretton Architects

Hooke Park Workshop / school, Beaminster, Dorset 1993 Ahrends Burton Koralek Dorset building – RIBA Awards 1993 Regional Award : Wessex

House on Evening Hill, Poole Harbour, Poole 2003 Richard Horden with Horden Cherry Lee Architects

Met Office, Exeter – Design: Broadway Malyan Architects

New Science Building, Bryanston School, Blandford 2002-07 Hopkins Architects

Pilkington Laboratories, Sherborne School 1995-2000 Hopkins Architects

Poole Bus Station Redevelopment 2009 Penson Architects image : PENSON / David Barbour Poole Bus Station Redevelopment

Poole Harbour Bridge 1995 Ian Ritchie Architects / Arup image © Ian Ritchie Architects

Poundbury Village, Dorchester, Dorset 1993- Masterplan: Leon Krier Poundbury : for Prince Charles’ Duchy of Cornwall Estate

Poundbury Market Hall, Dorchester – John Simpson

Royal Albert Memorial Museum Exeter 2008- Allies and Morrison picture from architect Royal Albert Memorial Museum Exeter

Sherborne School Music Building 2009- ORMS picture from architect Sherborne School Music Building

More Dorset Buildings welcome

Location: Dorset, South West England, UK

County Architecture adjacent to Dorset

Devon Architecture

English Architect Studios

Eden Project Grimshaw Architects image from RIAS Eden Project

Plymouth Theatre Royal, Plymouth Ian Ritchie Architects photo from architects Plymouth Theatre building

Comments / photos for the Dorset Architecture, Southern England Buildings page welcome

Website: Dorset

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[brajeshupadhyay]

Portugal holidays:10 great Algarve bargains to keep the summer alive… 

The air bridge to Portugal is up – and that means the joys of the Algarve are available once more to British holidaymakers.

Here we present 10 of the very best deals for this summer for locations including Albufeira, Olhao and Vilamoura.

SEAFOOD AND CASTLES

Alvor beach – just outside the town of Alvor – is where most of the tourist accommodation in this area is clustered 

About four miles west of Praia da Rocha, in the Algarve, the town of Alvor has a charming harbour with fishing boats and seafood restaurants. It’s an ancient settlement with the ruins of a 13th-century castle up a hill.

There is also a beach outside the centre, where most tourist accommodation is clustered. Great birdwatching on the peninsular by the mouth of the River Alvor; guided tours are available.

Best thing? Fish dinners by the harbour.

Details: A week at Club Alvorferias Apartments from £233pp self-catering, departing on September 3 from Gatwick (tui.co.uk).

BEAUTIFUL BEACH

Praia da Oura, pictured, has a fine sandy beach. It measures in at 900 metres long and the quietest parts are at the eastern end 

Praia da Oura is a fine sandy beach, with a rocky bluff, topped by pines and a coastal path at its western end leading to the busy, popular tourist resort of Albufeira. There is plenty going on close by, though with good restaurants and jolly bars.

The golden sands, 900 metres long, can get overcrowded in normal years; the quietest parts are at the eastern end.

Best thing? Walks along the coast.

Details: A week at Ouratlantico Apartments from £385pp self-catering, departing on September 20 from Birmingham (tui.co.uk).

TRANQUIL TAVIRA

The ancient town of Tavira, pictured, has a tranquil, traditional feel along the waterfront of the River Gilao

The ancient town of Tavira was founded in 400BC and was an important trading port with North Africa for many years. There’s a tranquil, traditional feel along the waterfront of the River Gilao.

Boutique shops and restaurants can be found near the old market. The beach on Ilha de Tavira, an island reached by ferry, is wonderfully peaceful.

Best thing? Peaceful picnics on Ilha de Tavira.

Details: A week at Robinson Club Quinta da Ria on the edge of Tavira, with two golf courses, is from £823pp all-inclusive, departing on September 10 from Gatwick (firstchoice.co.uk).

FUN IN ALBUFEIRA

Albufeira, pictured, is one of the Algarve’s best spots for letting your hair down. It has lanes lined with bars and restaurants

With its whitewashed buildings and lanes lined with bars and restaurants, Albufeira is one of the Algarve’s best spots for letting your hair down.

The beach is reached via a tunnel from the main square —and it’s a beauty with fine golden sands. A day trip to the picturesque village of Alte, one of the prettiest in the region, or to see the cathedral and castle in Silves is recommended.

Best thing? Knees-up meal on Largo Engenheiro Duarte Pacheco square.

Details: A week at the Cerro Mar Colina apartments in Albufeira from £373pp self-catering, departing on September 10 from Manchester (firstchoice.co.uk).

SUNSET COCKTAILS

The excellent sandy beach in Praia da Rocha, where there are bars and restaurants galore as well as an old sea fort 

One of the most developed stretches of coast on the Algarve — but Praia da Rocha is popular for a reason: its excellent sandy beach backed by low, ochre-hued cliffs.

There are bars and restaurants galore, plus an old sea fort and a casino. A day trip to Ferragudo, with its cobbled lanes and little seafood restaurants, offers a change of scene, and there are plenty of nearby coves to explore.

Best thing? Sundowners at a clifftop bar.

Details: A week at Jupiter Algarve Hotel in Praia da Rocha is from £487pp B&B, departing on September 12 from Glasgow (jet2holidays.com).

MAGNIFICENT MARINA

Vilamoura boasts Portugal’s largest marina, pictured, where you can expect to see yachts aplenty as well as boutique shops 

Vilamoura is a big resort built from the Sixties onwards, round what was once a small harbour in the Algarve. Now it is home to Portugal’s largest marina. So expect yachts aplenty, boutique shops, restaurants and cocktail bars. 

As well as sandy beaches, tennis and golf can be played close by and there are Roman ruins to investigate at Cerro da Vila, on the outskirts.

Best thing? Boat trips along the coast.

Details: A week at Vilamoura Golf Apartments is from £326pp self-catering, departing on September 12 from Manchester (jet2holidays.com).

GOLF GALORE

The lovely beach of Praia do Ancao, pictured, from where nature trails run along the coastline

BRITISH TOURISTS SHOULD COME TO PORTUGAL FULL OF CONFIDENCE, SAYS MANUEL LOBO ANTUNES – PORTUGAL’S AMBASSADOR TO THE UK  

Portugal’s ambassador to the UK says British holidaymakers shouldn’t hesitate in visiting Portugal. Pictured is the city of Faro 

We are very happy! Finally, there will be many British tourists coming to my country now that the quarantine requirement has been lifted.

It has been a challenging time — a time of frequent, open dialogue with our British colleagues, where we repeatedly gave our point of view that it was safe to travel to Portugal. This was not fully accepted. But now that has changed, which is great news.

Of course, the absence of British tourists has been noticeable and has made life difficult for our tourism sector. In the Algarve, from where I have just returned after spending my holidays there, it was not the same as usual. The British were much missed.

I go every year to the Algarve and, this time, I stayed for ten days in Baia, a resort near Albufeira. There were fewer people on the beaches than usual. But I was pleased to see that, despite the difficulties, businesses continued.

The atmosphere was quiet and confident, waiting for change to come.

I did not see any signs of fear or worry. People were respecting fully the health rules. They were happy, perfectly at ease.

I want readers of the Daily Mail to know that autumn is a good time to go to Portugal, especially the Algarve. 

British tourists should come to Portugal in full confidence, says the ambassador. Pictured is Carvoeiro beach 

September is the high season for golfers and we have plenty of courses for players of all standards.

From the end of October, those who like lower temperatures, less sunlight, attractive landscapes, playing sports and so on will realise that Portugal is a fantastic destination.

British tourists should come to Portugal in full confidence that we will welcome you and offer the very best in friendship and hospitality. So please don’t hesitate.

Quinta do Lago is a big, luxury golf resort with two top-class courses. Its rolling, well-manicured landscape leads to a lovely beach, Praia do Ancao, from where nature trails run along the coastline. There are a choice of apartments and hotels. 

The England football team stay here when playing international matches at Estadio Algarve, close to Faro, the Algarve’s capital.

Best thing? Golfers will love it.

Details: A week at the five-star Conrad Algarve spa hotel is from £1,090pp, departing on September 12 from Heathrow (ba.com).

CLIFFTOP SPLENDOUR

The beautiful, secluded sandy beach of Praia da Falesia. On the cliff above the beach, you can find the family-friendly Pine Cliffs Hotel 

On a cliff above the beautiful, secluded sandy beach of Praia da Falesia, Pine Cliffs Hotel is a family-friendly resort with pools, a spectacular golf course (with fine holes including shots over gullies) and the Annabel Croft Tennis Academy.

There are no fewer than 11 restaurants, kids’ clubs and a beach club/bar. It’s on the edge of Olhos de Agua, a tiny town with a natural spring.

Best thing? Secluded beach.

Details: A week at the Pine Cliffs Hotel is from £770pp B&B, departing on September 12 from Heathrow (ba.com).

HILLTOP HIDEAWAY

The hill-town of Monchique, pictured, has a market and a 17th-century monastery 

Stay in the foothills of the Serra de Monchique, a mountain range that divides the Algarve from Alentejo to the north. Slopes are covered in thick pine, chestnut and oak forests.

The hill-town of Monchique has a market and a 17th-century monastery. A thermal spa at Caldas de Monchique is four miles away. The area is known as the Garden of the Algarve.

Best thing? Hikes in the hills.

Details: A week at the Monchique Resort & Spa is from £917, departing on September 13 from Stansted (onthebeach.co.uk).

PEACEFUL SOUTH

The fishing port of Olhao, which is six miles east of the city of Faro. Expect narrow streets with tiled buildings and a superb fish market

Olhao is a fishing port that is home to the well-known Bela sardine brand and is six miles east of Faro.

It’s a relaxing spot within the Ria Formosa Natural Park by an estuary sheltered by the islands of Culatra and Armona. Expect narrow streets with tiled buildings and a superb fish market designed by Gustave Eiffel, no less. A boat trip to the secluded beaches on Culatra is a must.

Best thing? Trying the local octopus and squid, some of Portugal’s best.

Details: A week at the Real Marina Hotel is from £1,290 for a single traveller, including B&B and some meals with wine and activities, departing on September 13 from Stansted (friendshiptravel.com).

All prices correct as we went to press.

GOOD TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: PORTUGAL FACTS

The biggest wave ever surfed was off the coast of Nazare in Portugal — 24.38 metres high, in 2017.

There’s an average of around 300 days’ sunshine a year in the Algarve.

Portugal is the oldest country in Europe with unchanged borders dating from 1139.

In the 15th century, half of the New World belonged to Portugal.

Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan led the first expedition to circumnavigate the globe.

 There’s an average of around 300 days’ sunshine a year in the Algarve, pictured 

The Algarve has 125 miles of coastline and Cabo da Roca is the most westerly point on mainland Europe.

Vasco da Gama Bridge across the River Tagus is the longest in Europe at 7.6 miles.

Lisbon is home to the world’s oldest bookshop, Bertrand, founded in 1732.

The first documented hot balloon flight was in Lisbon in 1709.

Portugal produces 70 per cent of world’s cork.

Portuguese invented tempura — explorers introducing the Japanese to deep-fried cooking.

Portugal holds world record for the largest omelette (6.4 tonnes).

  The post Portugal holidays:10 great Algarve bargains to keep the summer alive…  appeared first on Shri Times News.

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[dorenekvance]

All about the Bufadero de Tauro

The Bufadero de Tauro is, undoubtedly, one of the many attractions that can be found at the southern municipality of Mogan. Being Gran Canaria’s second largest municipality, you might think that there are many things to do in Mogan. And you are completely right. That’s the reason why today’s Villa Gran Canaria blog’s article will unveil one of the most amazing spots of the island.

Tamarán, as the ancient aborigines called Gran Canaria, is well known as a ‘miniature continent’ by its diversity of landscapes. In fact, you can enjoy a tasty snack on the Pico de las Nieves with stunning views of the Teide (the highest peak in Spain with 3,718 meters above sea level) in the neighboring island of Tenerife and then head to the beach to have a swim along the Mogan’s coast in less than an hour.

Needless to say, Mogan’s litoral counts with many beautiful beaches (such as Mogan, Taurito, Tauro, Puerto Rico, Amadores, Patalavaca, Anfi del Mar or Arguineguin) and coves (like Tiritaña, Medio Almud or Los Frailes) that are the perfect plan if you want to spend a day under the sun. Therefore, in order to enjoy a different plan in Gran Canaria, keep reading and pay attention!

Where is the Bufadero de Tauro?

The local term bufadero is equivalent to a blowhole, a word used in geology to refer to a marine geyser formed as sea caves grow landwards and upwards into vertical shafts and expose themselves towards the surface, which can result in hydraulic compression of sea water that is released through a port from the top of the blowhole.

This magical spot is located in southern Gran Canaria just 50 kilometers from Gran Canaria Airport, between the beaches of Amadores and Tauro. What a surprise, right? The former is a calm man-made beach sheltered by two dykes with tranquil crystal clear waters and white fine sand that reminds more of a beach from the Caribbean.

Amadores has a seafront promenade with plenty of quality services like lounger and parasol rental, paid parking and restaurants and shops right by the sand. In addition, it also has amphibious chairs, handrails, buoys and everything needed for its disabled visitors to enjoy a safe swim.

The latter is currently experiencing a transformation from a pebble beach to a sand one, such as those happened in Amadores and Anfi del Mar. Its surroundings will be totally different, with a new sports marina and complementary services being built.

How to get to the Bufadero de Tauro?

Getting to this amazing spot isn’t complicated and don’t take too long. Obviously, this depends on the road you take, but result is the same. Depending on where you are, the distances vary:

Puerto Rico: 3 kilometers or 6 minutes

Puerto de Mogan: 12 kilometers or 15 minutes

Maspalomas: 20 kilometers or 18 minutes

Playa del Ingles: 23 kilometers or 22 minutes

San Agustin: 25 kilometers or 22 minutes

Gran Canaria Airport: 50 kilometers or 35 minutes

Las Palmas de Gran Canaria: 74 kilometers or 54 minutes

If you follow the GC-1, the main highway of the island, take the exit 62 Puerto Rico/Tauro. Then, just follow the signs to Tauro and park wherever you can. The bufadero is on the left side of the beach. In case you follow the old road, the GC-500, just follow driving until you get to Tauro. You won’t have any problems as there is plenty of parking spots around.

Another way to get to the bufadero is from the sea. Many people get there sailing and swimming, or even by kayaking along the coast. This is a great idea if you want to experience nature first hand.

Bottom line, the Bufadero de Tauro is a spot on the Mogan’s litoral worth visiting during your stay in Gran Canaria in order to enjoy a different beach day that you will remember forever. What are you waiting for?

La entrada All about the Bufadero de Tauro se publicó primero en Villa Gran Canaria | Holiday Rentals | Villas.

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