Category Archives: Europe Guides
Top Destinations In Cwmbran
There are a few discerning top destinations in Cwmbran that is worth one’s while for choosing this part of United Kingdom as a place to spend one’s vacation. It is interesting to take note that this town, categorized as new town, was established for the sole purpose of providing employment for the people around South Wales.
This fact alone pretty much shapes its modern history and contemporary culture. During the dawn of the 20th Century, this town is one of the biggest manufacturers of coal, like everywhere else in Wales and England. But when the coal industry reached its twilight, Cwmbran sought different means to promote the local industry and opted for commerce.
Now it still retains a huge number of employed citizens. But apart from its development, Cwmbran also has a strong tourism potential and they manifest themselves in some of its few attractions.
1. Greenmeadows Community Farm
One of the most popular of the top destinations in Cwmbran that is out of the ordinary tourism itinerary is the Greenmedows Community Farm. This farm has been operating for over 250 years and until now, it still prides on its practical traditional methods of diverse agricultural activities, particularly animal husbandry. This community farm has a very cozy café where visitors can simply unwind instead of going through the first-hand learning experience of doing the dirty work. Their café serves organic treats and even today, they aim to extend their culinary selection with home-grown fruits and vegetables. This place also serves a variety of treats that children also enjoy. The Greenmeadows Community Farm is definitely a suitable choice of attraction for the entire family.
2. Cwmbran Boating Lake
Although Cwmbran’s natural bodies of water are identified with streams and canals, the Boating Lake proves to be another unique addition in the top destinations in Cwmbran. Nature lovers will definitely enjoy the serenity of this enclosed body of water, surrounded by thick foliage that fosters a rich microcosmic biodiversity. This is the best place for parents to introduce little children to the idea of loving nature. Ducks in this area are used to the presence of humans and they make a quirky addition to the spectacle of magnificent birds hovering around the lake.
3. Llantarnam Grange Arts Centre
People with great fascination for arts could also choose the Llantarnam Grange Arts Centre as a favorite local attraction. This gallery features some of the town’s best works of art. In addition, this gallery also holds educational seminars and workshops. Lastly, one can visit the café to relax or buy some hand-made trinkets at the crafts shop.
4. Cheeky Monkeys
By the mere sound of it, anyone can guess that this is the one place to unlock the exhilaration within young children who has to put up with their parent’s boring rules and conditions. The Cheeky Monkey’s playground encourages kids to have fun at an almost “cheeky” extent. This place could be quite a bit pricey, but it is the best place to hold birthday parties.
Top 5 European Sports Destinations
The diverse range of sporting competitions in Europe mean there are some fantastic destinations to visit all year round. More familiar sports such as rugby and soccer can be found along with a whole range of winter games, obviously less recognizable in the UK and Ireland. For those interested in booking a trip over to the continent for a sporting holiday, here are our top 5 locations to visit.
Soccer
Dortmund, Germany
After experiencing the urban charms of Berlin, head to Dortmund to take in one of the better soccer clubs on the European continent. The higher exposure we have had to German soccer in recent years has also made us more aware of the sheer brilliance of their fans at games. No club typifies this more than Borussia Dortmund who have not just experienced success on the pitch but who have also been commended for their fans’ performance off it. Their Westfalenstadion has become a haven for football fans who wish to taste the imposing atmosphere of a Dortmund home game. Around 80,000 fans, many of them standing and constantly bouncing, make a plethora of noise throughout the 90 minutes of domestic and European games.
Skiing,
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, France
Located at the foot of Mont Blanc in the French Alps, Chamonix is one of the most glamorous and popular winter sports destinations in the world. The town itself is naturally geared towards the skiing and snowboarding industries, whilst there are a wide range of budget and luxury accommodation options also. In terms of skiing itself, the more advanced slopes within the range are recognised as some of the most challenging and adrenalin-fuelled in the world. There are many courses for beginners and amateurs also which give us mere mortals a chance to enjoy the resort as well.
Rugby Union
Cardiff, Wales
Being the national stadium of Wales, the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff holds numerous sporting and cultural events. However, it is most commonly associated with rugby and the tremendous atmosphere generated for Wales home games. Although it is only the 5th largest ground in terms of capacity, the passion of the Welsh rugby fans always provides for a thrilling encounter on the pitch. First opened in 1999, retractable roof is another prominent feature of the stadium.
Golf
Perthshire, Scotland
Within Perthshire lies the luxury hotel of Gleneagles which encompasses world class golf courses within its vicinity. These include the famous King’s Course, Queen’s Course and PGA Centenary Course which attract many prominent players for events every year. Furthermore, in September 2014 Gleneagles will host the Ryder Cup battled out between the U.S.A and Europe; this is perhaps the most well-known golf tournament in the world with the top players competing in the exciting match play format.
Basketball
Moscow, Russia
In a sporting sense, Moscow may be more recognised for its wealth of soccer teams but it also home to one of the most successful basketball teams in Europe also. Being one of the top-ranked sides, PBC CSKA Moscow regularly do well in the Euroleague and have won the competition twice already in its young existence. Being one of the richest basketball teams in Europe, they also attract some of the continent’s best players meaning their games are definitely worth a watch.
The 5 Most Underrated European Cities
Europe might be the most popular continent for tourism with amazing beaches, cultures, cuisines, languages and of course cities. The most common cities visited by tourists, including: Rome, Athens, Paris, Barcelona, and other popular places, hold true beauty and a music in the air that no one can resist. But, behind these well-known wonders, there are cities that do not shine as brightly. It’s a shame, because these urban centers hold mysteries and a magic of their own that are dying to be revealed. The list below will enlighten individuals to the 5 most underrated European cities that truly need to have their voices heard!
1. Edinburgh, Scotland
The capital of Scotland, Edinburgh, is dotted with astounding castles, with crumbling stones, that announce their age and endurance throughout time. Inside the walls, history replays the stories of the royals and their scandalous affairs. The air of this historical city rings with the clash of swords from the feuds between the clans. The stories of Edinburgh date back to the Celtic rituals and Christian fathers. The city is now bustling with thick-accented locals; yet, needs tourists who are interested in understanding one of the most mystical and romantic cultures known to man.
2. Bucharest, Romania
Who could resist visiting a city that the real life Dracula, Vlad the Impaler, called home? Capital of Romania, Bucharest came into existence in 1459 and since then has grown into a beautiful city with elegant architecture. The wide tree lined boulevards of this city earned its name as the “Little Paris” for its grandeur. You can’t visit this city without going to see the towering Arch of Triumph and the stunning Cantacuzino Palace that were both built in the early 1900s. Bucharest is definitely a fun place for a city break with its unique food, culture and awesome nightlife.
3. Oslo, Norway
Oslo was founded by King Harald Hardrade and became the capital of Norway in 1300 AD. Tourists can enjoy a tour through the Royal Palace or take stroll through the medieval castle, Akershus. The numerous parks and museums tell stories of Oslo’s interesting past. The devastating fire of 1624 left ruins for tourists to visit and lands that were turned into farms. Unfortunately, the fire ruined most of medieval Oslo; however, you can research the history and see it displayed in their museums and enjoy the beautiful modern city that emerged from the ashes.
4. Tallinn, Estonia
This beautiful capital of Estonia lies on the southern coast of the Gulf of Finland. The first fortress ever built was in 1050; however, it is believed that this city dates much farther back. The city has many wounded memories from World War 2 when the Soviets bombed it extensively in order to regain it from the Nazi Germans. Today, with its towering glassy buildings, its 400,000 residents have made it a charming and rustic town. Tallinn has some of the most beautiful cathedrals found in Europe. Visiting inside them will take you back to a simpler time that was uprooted by devastating war.
5. Dubrovnik, Croatia
Dubrovnik is a prominent tourist town with its glistening clear blue beaches. The beauty of its essence has had it nicknamed as the “Pearl of the Adriatic.” When visitors come to this stunning place, they must visit the most beautiful church possibly ever built, the Church of St. Ignatius. The artwork can take anyone’s breath away, instantly. With its beaches and a multitude of synagogues, this tourist town is incredibly humble and the perfect place for a comforting vacation.
Top 4 Resorts for snowboarders~
Snowboarders and skiers don’t always mix well on the slopes but there are winter sports resorts that welcome boarders with open arms. We look at four resorts in Europe and North America where boarding is a way of life, and where fans can freestyle, freeride and improve their carving technique knowing there are great facilities.
Before you go, make sure your travel insurance covers you for winter sports. Some policies include it as standard. Others, such as those from Barclays, feature it as an optional extra.
USA: Park City, Utah
With many facilities dating from the 2002 Winter Olympics, there are challenges for all abilities in Park City. The celebrated Eagle Superpipe, for example, has walls up to 22ft while the King’s Crown Superpark offers awesome jumps and more for the sport’s very best. Jonesy’s is a better park option for intermediate boarders looking to build confidence. Keen freeriders head for McConkie’s Bowl, where moguls or powder are the order of the day depending on the conditions. Lessons are available for all levels at the Ski and Snowboard School.
Austria: Mayrhofen
Long popular with a youthful crowd and with a reputation for great après ski, Mayrhofen was quick to embrace the boarding culture. A key attraction is Van Penken Park, which has kickers, rails and jumps, a half-pipe and facilities for beginners through to pros. There’s also a section set aside for children. Daredevil boarders (and skiers) continue to be drawn to the area’s hair-raising Harakiri Piste, which is Austria’s steepest groomed slope. Artificial snow-making facilities help when the white stuff is thin on the ground but beware of lift queues, especially in high season.
Switzerland: Laax and Flims
Boarders like their après ski but pretty Laax and its neighbour Flims in Switzerland are a quieter option for much of the season. However, it offers some excellent freeriding with about 220km of marked pistes and plenty of off-piste and powder options, including in the Vorab Glacier area. Freestylers of all abilities are catered for, with the Ils Plauns snow park a particular favourite with experienced boarders and freeskiers. NoName boasts Europe’s largest half-pipe but newbies should head for the Beginners Snow Park.
USA: Breckenridge, Colorado
The facilities at Breckenridge are rated by many, including the British Olympic team, who’ve spent many a winter’s day in training on the resort’s half-pipe. Experts are catered for at the Freeway Terrain Park at Peak 8, which has impressive jumps and rails as well as a superpipe. The same peak is home to the Trygves Terrain Park, which is better suited to beginners. Take 5 Chair to Park Lane, which boasts a collection of rails, boxes and jibs.
And one resort to avoid… Deer Valley in the USA is a skiers-only resort.
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