Fortunate maritime climate you ask? Well I think so; I can remember spending two months in Morocco – day after day of blazing sunshine and every day a carbon copy of the one before. Even I was starting to feel the monotony but the locals were literally crying out for a change in the weather. They couldn’t work in the midday heat, they couldn’t grow stuff, but mostly they mourned to total lack of variety in their weather. They were deadly serious when they looked me in the eye and said they wished they had weather more like ours.

So what do you do during a wet weekend in Newquay? Well if you’ve ran off with the neighbour’s wife/daughter/ or a randy work colleague or even your own other half, the answer should be obvious: book yourself in for a day’s surfing, kiting, or mountain biking. Or coasteering. Or paintballing. Or quad biking. Or just wrap up and go for a stroll on the windswept beaches before ducking into a cosy headland pub for a hot chocolate and something stronger. Really, there is no such thing as bad weather in Cornwall, only the wrong clothes.

With this in mind, two local vagabonds, Andi Milson and Dom Moore, have set up City2Surf with the aim of introducing the best of Cornwall and its activities to stressed out city types on a budget. City2Surf is a super budget travel agency running two and three day trips to Newquay with coach travel from London and back for the impressively low price of £94. The coaches are supplied by Biotravel and use biodiesel and travellers will be able to enjoy surf movies on the journey down to the accommodation in Newquay, The Surf Sanctuary.

The Surf Sanctuary, a small surf lodge set up by a bunch of ne’er do-well co-conspirators offers their guests to try their hand a range of ‘free’ sports such as kitesurfing, powerkiting, surfing, coasteering, mountain biking and general hiking along the trails of Cornwall. The crew are all well versed in getting the most out of the day and there is none of the usual ‘cooler than thou’ bullshit that you can sometimes find at activity bases in tourist towns. The guys at TSS are laid back and friendly and work hard at making the most of your time down there - with seven beaches in walking distance and the better bars and restaurants close by, the lodge’s proximity and local knowledge are definitely an advantage.

Activities can be arranged to suit just about any budget: the lodge has a slew of OS maps and guide books to get you out and about for free (you cannot beat a good ramble along the coastal path – don’t be fooled by the word ‘path’, it’s more of a cliff hugging wild track!), mountain bike rental for a tenner and budget surf and kite lessons right through to bespoke advanced lessons for serious improvers in their chosen sports. All you need to do is let the crew know what activities you might be interested in during your stay and they’ll do their best to hook it up for you.

The best thing about spending a hardcore day out in the elements of stunning Cornwall? Well that’s got to be that first refreshing sip of a well earned pint of the local speciality, Rattler Cyder. Take it steady though; you’ll want a clear head to get up and to it all again the next morning...

Visit http://www.city2surf.co.uk for the latest information and deals.

There are hidden summer dangers that can ruin your fun under the sun. one of which is due to insects.

If you are planning to have a picnic and stay outdoors, watch out and beware of insects that could harm you. Apply Insect repellents. In this manner, insect bites can be minimised and you are assured that you won’t get bitten and itching whilst enjoying the summer heat.

Another one is being attacked by heat stress or heat stroke. This is very dangerous for everybody is prone to it. you can be safe by preventing it to happen. You can do this simply by hydrating and taking frequent breaks from your outdoor activities. You should also watch out for symptoms like thirst, cramps, fatigue, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, headaches and fever. And also don’t stay long inside enclosed areas.

Summer also means sunbathing! But don’t you don’t want to be burned and suffer the itch and torment caused by sunburn. So before you flaunt those sexy bodies, make sure you apply ample amount of sunblock to keep your skin healthy and beautiful.

When swimming, you cannot also escape the dangers of unseen enemies like bacteria and viruses. Watch out for diarrhea can strike any time caused by swallowing water contaminated with parasites; pink eye and other infections that can be caused by adenovirus; Hepatitis A and Naegleria.

If some weird things are starting to be felt, just immediately seek for a doctor’s help to prevent worsening of the problem. In this case, you will have a worry- free and fun- filled summer vacation!

Here in Flambards, everyday is the best day of the week.

Rides, Activities and Entertainment.

Flambards offers a very rare chance to see and get close to exotic creatures in The Really Wild Show which is presented in their large covered dome arena.

It also offers a chance to meet children’s TV celebrities loike Cybermnan from TV’s Doctor Who, Peppa Big, Bart Simpson and many other Special Guests as scheduled through out the main season in 2009 including their very own... Ferdi!

They also have this fun and thrilling rides, exhibitions and facilities that will truly make you love Cornwall.

With this, any day can be the Best day of the Week!

Admission Prices

Flambards offers you great value for money all year round. They have Family saver deals which ranges from £36.00 to £40.00. However they also have single admission fees of £10.50- £16.50 and still they have lots and lots of other admissions discounts. To check these out, just log on to http://www.flambards.co.uk/prices.html

Going There?

Experiencing the fun is never that hard with Flambards. You can easily locate the park for it is situated at Helston, Cornwall, TR13 0QA.

If you have any questions you can call Flambards on 01326 573 404 or email them at info@flambards.co.uk.

Crealy Adventure Park is a day out full of fun and excitement that everyone of all ages can enjoy! As well as lots of wet and wild outdoor rides there are a number of animals for you to pet, feed or ride on. Then for when the weather isn't at its best there's over 75,000 sq ft of indoor play zones. You can visit the spooky haunted house that's not only for children but also big kids! Do you dare to drop into the blackness on the slide of doom?!

With all the exploring to be done at one of Cornwall's top adventure parks you'll have a day to remember. Infants (under 92 cms tall) go free and prices start at £13.95 or book online for discount!

You can find Crealy's at Wadebridge, Cornwall. To book online, get directions or look at more information go to http://www.crealy.co.uk/cornwall/index.aspx or contact them on 01841 541286

Had the time of your life at Crealy's? Tell us about it! Add your comments below.

If you still like to have the luxuries of home away from home then Hendra's luxury holiday homes are for you. You can choose between a premium or budget range that both have 2 or 3 bedroom caravans. All are fitted to a high standard with showers, cooking facilities and a TV (including CBeebies channel for the kiddies)! For those of you that like to include your pets on the family holiday there are several holiday homes that allow for this for a small charge.

There is a choice of 12 fields full of spacious pitches for touring caravans and motorhomes that are surrounded by well lit-up paths, tarmacked roads and plenty of water and electric points. Hendra take pride in offering top quality toilet and shower facilities that are well-equipped and have even won a 'Loo of the year' award! Pets are also welcome and just have to be added to your booking so you are put in the correct dog-friendly fields.

If you prefer being a bit closer to nature and 'roughing it' tents are welcome with the choice of an electric hook up and terraced pitches. You can choose from quieter, relaxed pitches or go for one closer to the action. Again if you would like a pitch in one of their dog-friendly fields they can be added to your booking. Free hot showers and dishwashing facilities are available and waste and chemical points are easily found.

Hendra Holiday Park can offer a huge variety of entertainment with the Oasis swimming pool that has 3 water flumes, a toddlers area, river rapids and waterfalls! There is also train rides, 3 adventure playgrounds, pirates den, nature trail......the list goes on! Not to mention their awesome entertainment line-up.

To see in detail everything this fantastic holiday park can offer you visit their website where you can also email any enquires and make online bookings http://www.hendra-holidays.com/index.aspx or call 01637 845778

Have you stayed at Hendra Holiday Park? Add your comments below.

If you would like one of Newquay's quieter beaches away from the crowds even at high season Whipsiderry Beach is a beautiful stretch of golden sands and rugged cliffs located on the North coast of Cornwall. It is hidden away down 136 steps in the cliff or at low tide accessible from Porth beach or Watergate Bay. This can make for a very romantic walk starting at either Porth or Watergate Bay and strolling the length of the 3 stunning beaches.

Going to the beach with all your family can make for a fun day out but not cost the earth like some attractions when there are alot of you. All you need is a beach ball, swimming costume and some pre-packed lunch for a cosy family picnic and games on the beach! You need to be aware that there is no lifeguard service on Whipsiderry and unless it is low tide the only way out is up the 136 steps so you may want to pack light!

To get to Whipsiderry Beach you want to go to the outskirts of Newquay past Porth beach. Once your on the Watergate Road (B3276) that takes you from Newquay to Padstow you will find the beach on the left just after Porth and at the top of the hill. Unfortunately Whipsiderry doesn't have a car park but spaces along the main road can be used.

Close by and under 2 miles from the centre of Newquay Whipsiderry Hotel can offer peaceful accommodation where you will be surrounded by rolling cliffs, blue seas and enjoy breathtaking views of some of the most spectacular scenery Cornwall has to offer. The hotel has been run by the same family for 37 years so you can expect a very warm welcome and comfortable stay here.

With two guest lounges, a patio, swimming pool, american pool room and plenty more you wont want for anything! For tariff information and bookings go to http://www.whipsiderry.co.uk/

Visited Whipsiderry Beach before? What did you think?! Add your comments below.

The Beach House is just 30 yards away from Porth Beach, you can literally have the sand under your feet in less than a minute! The apartment sits on the second floor of a brand new building with stunning views over the river mouth towards the Porth Island.

Porth is just out of Newquay and is renowned for its safe family beach due to how the rocks and island shelter it from the Atlantic Waves. Not too far from this apartment is the Adventure Centre where you can take part in a number of water and land activities. Porth has everything that you need for a fun and relaxing beach side holiday in Newquay.

The lounge has been furnished with classy leather sofas and features a Freeview TV and DVD player. They have a very modern kitchen that has been fitted with everything that you will need and the open plan lounge and dining area boasts amazing views of the Atlantic beneath you. Both of the bedrooms have been comfortably furnished and the master bedroom comes with an en-suite power shower. The penthouse Apartment looks straight out over Porth’s sandy beach.

Prices start from £450 a week and The Beach House can sleep upto 5 people.

If you have any inquiries or would like to book visit http://www.apartmentsnewquay.co.uk/the-beachouse-porth.htm or call 07812 993081. Alternatively you can email james@quick-hits.co.uk

What particular key points do you look for in your hunt for accommodation? Add your comments below.

Read on for our top five suggestions of how to spend your rainy day in Newquay.

Enjoy a swim at Waterworld or The Oasis Fun Pools

If you’ve brought your costume but don’t fancy swimming in the rain why not try one of Newquay’s two pool venues?

Waterworld, near Trenance Boating Lake, boasts a 25 metre pool with six lanes for the serious swimmer. Families will enjoy the tropical fun pool with its water cannon, tipper, slides, erupting volcano, flumes, spitting snakes and crocodile.

Entry to the two pools is priced separately. The 25m pool is £3.40 for adults, £2.20 for three to 16-year-olds and free for under twos. To access the fun pool adults will pay £5.40, five to 16-year-olds pay £4.10, under fives £2.20 and under twos get in free.

The Oasis Fun Pools complex at Hendra Holiday Park offers an indoor leisure pool for splashing around and a heated outdoor pool for swimming and sunbathing. Inside you’ll find flumes, slides, river rapids, a geyser, giant tap, fountains and waterfall for a great family day out.

Prices vary depending on the session and time so check the website before you visit. Under threes get in free at all times.

Contact:
www.oasis-hendra.co.uk
enquiries@ oasis-hendra.co.uk
01637 875778

Get active at Newquay Sports Centre

Newquay Sports Centre offers one of the biggest selections of sports in Cornwall.

Whether you’re into badminton, squash, weight training, table tennis, climbing, trampolining, cricket, football, volleyball, netball or basketball what better way to spend a rainy day than competing in your favourite sport?

The centre boasts a packed timetable of activities, or you can book a hall and set up your own private game.

There’s something for every budget with a non-member’s strength gym session costing just £1.90.

Showers and changing facilities are available and lockers are operated by a £1 coin which is returned after use.

Contact:
www.newquaysportscentre.com
tim.webb@newquaysports.plus.com
01637 875533

Go for a pint or two on the Rail Ale Trail

The Atlantic Coast line takes you on a scenic tour of the Cornish countryside, pausing at seven stations from Newquay to Par.

At each stop you’ll find one or more traditional Cornish pubs serving the best local beer as you pass through the heart of Cornwall, witnessing the Duchy’s heritage and history.

Enamel pin badges, t-shirts and stickers are available to those who collect stamps from pubs along the way. Make sure you download your leaflet from the website before board the train.

Beginning in Newquay, you’re advised to visit The Red Lion which offers Betty Stogs, Cornish Knocker and Doom Bar or Eden Ale; The Griffin Inn with its selection of Skinner’s ales; or The Lanherne which serves Betty Stogs or Doom Bar.

A short hop down the line is the village of Quintrell Downs. At The Quintrell Inn you’ll find the ever-popular Doom Bar and occasional guest ales, while a trip to The Two Clomes offers a selection of Betty Stogs, Doom Bar, London Pride, Reverend James and other guest ales.

At St Columb Road visit The Queen and Railway, a local pub which rotates its choice of real ale between different Westcountry brewers.

The Victoria Inn in Roche, The Bugle Inn in Bugle and The Kings Arms in Luxulyan all sell a selection from St Austell Brewery, giving you the perfect opportunity to taste the company’s full roster.

Par is a real ale lover’s heaven with six participating pubs to choose from. The Royal Inn offers Sharp’s beers, as well as a national bitter on rotation. The Par Inn serves Tribute and Tinner’s while The Ship Inn keeps Doom Bar, Betty Stogs, London Pride and Timothy Taylor Landlord on tap. St Austell Ales are available from The Welcome Home Inn, while The New Inn stocks Bass, Tinner’s and Tribute and The Cornish Arms offers Tribute and Dartmoor.

Travel after the morning rush on a return ticket for the cheapest fares.

Contact:
www.railaletrail.com
railpart@plymouth.ac.uk
01752 233094

Take the kids to DairyLand

DairyLand Farm World, located just outside Newquay, offers all-weather entertainment ideal for young children.

The Bull Pen indoor play area provides kids with over 12,000 square feet of ball pools, climbing nets, slides, tumble towers and pools.

If they’re willing to brave the rain, youngsters are sure to enjoy pony rides in the farm park. Cows are milked each day in the parlour, pets can be patted and for the more adventurous there’s the raging bull ride and wildlife trails.

Throughout the summer the attraction is open daily from 10am to 5pm. Adult tickets are £7.95 and children get in free.

Contact:
www.dairylandfarmworld.com
info@dairylandfarmworld.com
01872 510246

Watch the fish at the Blue Reef Aquarium

Newquay’s Blue Reef Aquarium is situated on Towan Beach and operates entirely indoors.

The attraction is home to marine life from the Cornish coastline and some species from further afield in over 40 displays which take you closer to life under the sea.

The tropical shark lagoon holds stingrays, sharks and exotic fish in a shallow mangrove swamp, giving great views to visitors.

Newly hatched fish can be seen in the nursery where clownfish, seahorses, sharks and cuttlefish are bred.

The highlight has to be the underwater tunnel, allowing you to walk beneath sharks, puffer fish and dozens of other water-dwellers.

Every day you can take part in feeds and learn more in themed talks. Be sure to check the website for timings and special events.

Tickets are £8.95 for adults, £7.95 for seniors and students and £6.95 for three to 14-year-olds.

Contact:
www.bluereefaquarium.co.uk/newquay
newquay@bluereefaquarium.co.uk
01637 878134

The Esplanade Hotel is one of the best Newquay can offer. It's a family-oriented hotel that not only gives you great satisfaction with your accommodation but of course, will endeavour to make your Newquay experience the best possible. It has all the action you want in Newquay being only a short walk from the town but comes without the crowds!

Located at the Southern end of the world-famous surfing capital - Fistral beach, the hotel benefits from beautiful Atlantic views which can be seen from the restaurant, lounge areas, and many of the rooms and suites. The beach is directly opposite the hotel so you don't have far to go for some relaxation and fun in the sun!

This modern hotel combines up-to-date facilities with an air of understated sophistication and a relaxed atmosphere. It has a year-round appeal that's complimented by the warm Atlantic Gulf-Stream which makes this a venue for all seasons, be it an extended summer holiday in Cornwall or an escape from busy city life.

The Esplanade Hotel offers plenty of facilities and activities for people of all ages, you can relax in the sauna or jacuzzi, take a dip in the indoor or outdoor swimming pool, enjoy some golf situated on a course only a couple kms away plus plenty more.

For  bookings or inquiries and information on any discounts available, please call 01637 873333

Stayed at The Esplanade Hotel? Add your comments below.

One of the most common reasons why Cornwall is so famous is because of  the breath-taking views surrounding it.

If you want to witness the amazing views, we are lucky enough to have the Hotel Victoria which overlooks Newquay Bay in the centre of town. It doesn’t matter if you are on a business trip or just simply here to relax, this AA 3 Star hotel has one of the best locations in the resort. It has the town's shops, bars, restaurants and attractions right on its doorstep! With this, Newquay is the best place for a short break, a family get away or even an action-packed activity on a holiday, Newquay’s got it all for you!

Hotel Victoria has individually styled rooms, many with sea views and all have en-suites. Aside from that, it has an indoor pool, a spa bath, sauna, steam room and a small gym. There are also a range of restaurants on site offering a wide variety of food in which you can feast your appetites on. Need Wi-Fi? The hotel has it all!

For inquiries and bookings please call +44 (0)845 166 4280, or just drop by at Hotel Victoria, East Street, Newquay, Cornwall, TR7 1DB.

Has anyone stayed at this beautiful hotel? Add your comments below.