Amsterdam’s century-old Oosterpark is the city’s foremost tree-hugging mecca, and in a city brimming with green leafy suburbs, parks and forested outskirts, that is saying quite a lot. The park was opened to the public in 1891 and designed in and English-garden style. Located just a tad south-west of Amsterdam’s most historic quarter, Oosterpark and its surrounding quarter are an ideal holiday base for anyone who wants to be close to the city’s attractions, yet still feel as if they’re on a wilderness escape away from the big city bustle.

Not only is Oosterpark an ideal base if travelling to Amsterdam with children, with walking, duck-feeding in ponds and picnicking just a few of the infinite options, the park is also a congregation hub for Amsterdam’s immigrant youth and considered the most multi-cultural corner in the city. Want to have the option of phenomenal Turkish, Moroccan, Surinamese and Chinese eateries whilst vacationing in Amsterdam? Then book your holiday rental apartment in Oosterpark and you’ll have all this, and more, right outside your door.

If you need yet another reason to pick Oosterpark as your ideal Amsterdam accommodation choice, let it be known that some of the best pubs and microbreweries in the whole city are found right here; so if you’d like a delightfully alcoholic refreshment, to end your sightseeing days, pay a visit to one (or all) of our very favourite Oosterpark pubs.

Brouwerij ‘t IJ

This rustic brewery and its iconic windmill are an absolute institution in Amsterdam. Head here on a hot and sunny Sunday afternoon and don’t be surprised if you’ll be joined by half of Amsterdam! Boasting a gorgeous outdoor terrace and delectable brews on tap, ‘t IJ also offers insightful behind-the-tap tours which are so popular with visitors to Amsterdam they tend to sell out in a flash. Don’t miss your chance to discover the secrets behind this pub’s success and make sure you buy your tickets at least a day in advance.

Sit along the banks of the canal, savour a few pints of the mighty strong Columbus, socialise and be merry…this is what Amsterdam is all about! At ’t IJ you’ll always find at least four or five beers on tap, even though the types will change depending on the time of year you visit.

Cafe Dorst

Most people rate the close proximity of attractions in Amsterdam as one of the city’s very best attributes, and when it comes to microbreweries in Oosterpark…we couldn’t agree more. Just across the canal from IJ’s you’ll find this non-descript but rather charming pub which serves a wide range of beers on tap and boasts a large screen TV screening all the big matches on week-ends. Popular with laid-back locals and avid football fans, Cafe Dorst is often considered the ideal ‘local’ by all who chose to rent their holiday apartment in Oosterpark. It may be true that at first glance Cafe Dorst may not seem worthy of a rave, but head to the roof top terrace on a sunny day, mingle with some friendly locals, enjoy the superlative views of that windmill and you my well understand our humble devotion to the place.

Cafe Milo

This gorgeous new cafe-restaurant-pub hybrid is a brand new concept haunt in Oosterpark, one which seems to have hit an absolute niche spot with the trendy locals. Basically, you can visit Milo at any time of day or night, for anything at all you fancy. Whether it’s a three-course meal you’re salivating for, mid-afternoon beer or late night cocktail, Milo’s got you well and truly covered. The interior is modern and elegant and the outdoor terrace, right across from the south-eastern edge of Oosterpark, is an absolute delight on a balmy summer evening.

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De Waterkant is to Cape Town what Paddington is to Sydney, or Greenwich Village to New York: the city’s most vibrant gay-friendly suburb. Infinitely popular with yuppies, fun seeking professionals and an eclectic mix of multi-cultural, multi-sexual and multi-everything fabulous folks; de Waterkant is fast emerging as one of the South African’s capital’s most sought after addresses. Fabulous homes, apartments complexes and super trendy bars and clubs adorn the streets of De Waterkant and help make this by far the most exciting holiday base for anyone who wants to add a little sparkle and pizzazz to their Cape Town vacation. Book your holiday rental apartment in De Waterkant when visiting Cape Town and fill your nights with an infinite amount of play at the following ab fab gay-friendly bars.

Amsterdam Action Bar

This everything-goes men-only bar is at the epicentre of De Waterkant’s gay nightlife scene. Spread out over two floors, this club is certainly home to much action, most of it centred on the dark upper level where private cubicles seem to receive much patronage. Darts, pool and drag makes up most of the action of the lower ground, where an older gay crowd tends to converge most nights.

Bubbles Bar 

The absolute drag show institution in De Waterkant is Bubbles, a bar so fun, sparkly and fashionable it puts most Parisian or London joints to shame. Fun, extravagant and cheeky, the shows here are a must-see for anyone who appreciates their nights colourful and flirtatious. The only understated thing about this bar is the front door! Bubble bubble toil and trouble…

Beaulah Bar 

Here’s one for the ladies! Beaulah is one of the newest clubs in town and has already secured a mighty cult following thanks to its relaxed atmosphere, varied nightly entertainment (from all night DJs to comedy shows) and very friendly staff.

Beefcakes

Beefcakes is an absolute riot and not just because it’s decorated with pink flamingo statues in all sorts of compromising positions. The 50s style diner, complete with cosy leather booths and super-huge burgers on the menu, boasts a fun and raucous crowd and is so unpretentious it’s become one of Cape Town’s most revered dining and dancing destinations. Stuff your face upstairs then head down to the in-house Studio 54 to dance it all off ‘till the wee hours of the morning.

 Cafe Manhattan

After a few late nights in De Waterkant you may be looking for a more chilled joint and a rather relaxing night out in Cape Town. If you do, then head to red-as-hellfire Cafe Manhattan, a nice little place boasting lots of outdoor seating, an informal atmosphere and a wonderful array of food and drinks. Immensely popular as a pre-clubbing haunt, Manhattan is the ideal destination if you’re after at least one laid-back evening in town.

Yearly Gay Events

Like many extraordinarily modern cities, Cape Town also plays host to a vast array of fiestas, festivals and gay parades during the year. The four most famous by far are: the Mother City Queer Project (or MCQP), a fantabulous costumed extravaganza held in December, followed closely by the 10-day-long Cape Town Gay Pride Parade in February, the Mardi Gras held in May and the ultra-popular Out in Africa Film Festival held in September.

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It may seem strange to learn that the most famous area of Paris is also its least populated. Certainly, with gargantuan attractions like the Louvre Museum, Tuileries Gardens and Royal Palace, it would seem only logical that Paris’ 1^st arrondissement, the Louvre area, be somewhat less built up. Yet the most visited area of the French capital is also the one boasting the least amount of overnight stays; hundreds descend here every day, yet choose to stay elsewhere, erroneously believing the hood has not much to offer once museum gates close. Oh how wrong they are!

Aside some of the best beauty spas in the city (read all about them here), Paris’ central district is also home to some of the most divine French brasseries in the city, which fill up with a mostly local clientele every night of the week. Book your gorgeous holiday rental in the Louvre area next time you visit Paris and discover where trendy Parisians head to when all the tourists are busy checking out the Eiffel Tower’s light show.

Juveniles, 47 rue de Richelieu

This small and very intimate eatery is one of Paris’ best kept secrets. The retro decor, dimmed lighting and limited seating makes it a real diamond among the mammoth sized restaurants found in this area. The menu is an enticing mix of typical French dishes with just a hint of Scottish influence (thanks to the ex-pat owner) which makes it a rather unusual place indeed. The menu is an absolute hit with local patrons, so we guess the fusion cuisine is gaining momentum in Paris as well. The extensive boutique wine menu has also made it a pilgrimage site for wine connoisseurs and, whilst the food menu may not be very comprehensive, rest assured that this is to ensure everything you order be of the utmost freshness. One of the most unpretentious brasseries you’ll find in Paris (if they run out of chairs you’ll score a wine carton to sit on!), Juveniles is one of the most relaxed and sociable haunts you’ll ever have the pleasure of visiting. If you’re in Paris on your own and wish to enjoy a superlative cognac in good company, just head here are you’ll be assured of finding a delightful drinking companion.

Le Musset, 5 Rue de l’Echelle

Considering it would be an absolute travesty to visit Paris and not try escargot at least once, we suggest you head to Le Musset and taste these slippery little suckers the way they are meant to be served….still in their shell! Yes, it may be hard work, and not necessarily elegant, but some say snails only taste good once you’ve worked up a sweat trying to pry them out of their former abode. The delectable French onion soup is also another specialty of Le Musset and, we must confess, an infinitely easier affair too. The red-infused decor is splendid, even though its super-central location (right across the road from the museum) makes it a little less hidden secret in Paris.

Le Petite Flore, 6 Rue Croix des Petits Champs

This very unassuming little place has not yet been discovered by tourists, which seems very odd considering its outdoor terrace faces one of the most walked-about streets. Oh well…better keep it quiet then! Le Petite Flore may seem nothing to rave about at first glance, yet whatever efforts the owners don’t make on the look of the place is certainly been focused on the food instead; which is really what most want out of a local brasserie dining experience. The duck confit is simply mouth-watering, so if you can look past the in-house tobacco and lottery stand then you may be in for the best value dinner in Paris!

Louise Cafe, 8 Rue Croix des Petits Champs

Right next door to Le Petite Flore is yet another local gastronomic gem, this one being infinitely more adorable and run by a gorgeous local family who take their friendliness and hospitality to amazing heights…this being Paris and all! We’d highly recommend starting with Louise’s chestnut soup (soupe aux châtaignes),made with braised ham off the bone, caramelized onions and lots of fresh herbs, continuing with the lip-smacking lobster salad and finishing off in style with one of Lilie’s (Louise’s daughter) home-made desserts. Gracious hosts, top quality home-made food and all extremely well priced. A real Parisian trifecta!

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The pretty-as-a-postcard town of Lund, in Southern Sweden (just a hop away from Copenhagen), is considered the historic pulse of the country and indeed stands on the ruins of its very oldest settlement. Whilst up until the late 90s it was thought the town’s origins dated back only a few centuries, latest archaeological digs discovered treasures dating back to the first millenia. But wait…there’s more! Lund is also a hub of effervescent modernity, being home to the largest university in the country and the home-base of some of Sweden’s most famous high-tech companies, including Sony Ericsson. So while Lind is a spectacular holiday destination for history buffs, it also offers an unparalleled and eclectic mix of old and new, classic and avant-garde. Book your Swedish holiday rental apartment in Lund and discover how this central city can offer you a Pandora’s Box of attractions: from medieval museums to super-trendy cafes’, natural city oasis along with the grandest cathedral in Sweden.

History of Lund

The oldest recorded traces of Lund as an important hub bate back to 1100, when the city became the seat for the Scandinavian Archbishop. The stupendous Lund Cathedral, the most visited in Sweden, was built as a consequence of the posting, which also have birth to the Cathedral School, thought to be the oldest and most prestigious in northern Europe.

Right up until the mid 1600s, Lund was actually part of Denmark, and was only relinquished to Sweden as a parting ‘gift’ at the end of the Second Northern War in 1658. The world-famous university was inaugurated here a few years later and continues to be one of the country’s highest ranking educational institutions.

Lund was once again at the centre of a particularly bloody battle in 1676 (when Danish troops attempted a coupe during the one-day-long Battle of Lund) yet was spectacularly defended by its new homeland. Considering the Swedes were outnumbered and led by a 21yo king, we’d say it was probably determination which saw them triumphant.

Modern-day Lund

While the city’s historic importance obviously dates back quite a while, its transition into an exciting, young town has only occurred in the last 50 years. With the slow and steady relocation here of some of the country’s best high-tech and medical companies, and the continuing popularity of the Lund University, the city has breathed a new air and is now one of the most lively towns in Sweden.

Everything here is geared towards entertaining the young crowds, which makes it an ideal destination for foreign visitors. You can wonder through thousand-year-old ruins in the city centre and pop into one of the many trendy cafes and mingle with the young, hip crowd. There are kilometres of cycleways which take you from the heart of the city to the neighbouring botanical gardens and a plethora of exotic eateries and funky bars. Days are always buzzy and nights never dull…Lund really is perfect for anyone who wants the best from Sweden!

The city’s main square boasts a brilliant Tourist Information Office where you can get free maps of the city’s best landmarks and most popular attractions. They can also help you organize day trips to the surrounding countryside or Copenhagen, which is only a half-hour train-ride away.

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The Czech Republic has flourished in the past decades, and has emerged as one of Europe’s most sought-after holiday destination. Prague, the gorgeous capital city, has always been favoured among architectural buffs and it’s not hard to resolve why that would be. The sheer number of splendid buildings found in the centre and neighbouring areas are enough to induce a head-spinning euphoria in even the most seasoned of tourists; the maze of cobblestone alleyways, picturesque gardens and grand palaces going a long way to ensuring Prague still remains Central Europe’s most celebrated treasure.

While Prague is an exciting and rewarding holiday destination any time of year, visiting in winter gifts a truly unforgettable experience. The city comes alive with a multitude of gorgeous outdoor Christmas markets, and Prague’s stunning streets are further enhanced by the multitude of colourful lights and festive decorations. The most celebrated market, the one held in the Old Town Square, is preceded by a stellar reputation as central Europe’s most authentic and enchanting of all, so book your holiday rental apartment in Smichov, the trendy quarter on the west bank of the Vltava river, and explore a Christmas market worthy of its legendary praise.

When to go, what to buy & what to do:

Although market stalls abound all over the town, the most visited market is that set up in the Old Town Square, where tourists can mingle with locals and fill their stockings with everything from hand-carved wooden decorations, splendid Bohemia crystal wares, decorated candles, unique clothing to a myriad of hand-made arts and crafts. Not to be outdone, the food stalls do a great job in vying for your attention. Replenish your energy with generous servings of mulled warm wine and steaming hot pastries and you’ll be well on your way to celebrating the season in grand Czech-style.

The square is perfectly decorated for the impending festivities, and is home to the city’s most stunning nativity set, all hand-carved in wood. If you’re travelling with young tots in tow make a beeline for the hut next to Bethlehem, and let your kids have a ball making masks and watching themed puppet-shows.

The most beautiful part of the celebrations in the Old Town Square is the daily folkloric show. Theatrical, dancing and singing troupes converge here from all over the country to entertain the crowds, something which visitors find particularly enchanting. Travel here at the beginning of December and you can experience the city’s Mikulas celebration (feast of St Nicholas) which is held on the town square on the 5^th December. Hordes of dressed-up Santas, accompanied by angels and devils, pick on the youngest visitors to determine whether they are deserving of candy or charcoal. The fun and festive event is an absolute hoot for everyone who visits.

If you’re planning to extend your winter holiday to include Christmas in Prague, then enhance your experience by joining the midnight mass held on the Old Town Square on the 24^th December. Bring some candles and a solid voice, and join in the carol singing along with thousands who converge here every year.

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Crete has long been known as the most beautiful of all the Greek islands and while some of the other islanders may not agree, all who visit for the first time are left in splendid awe at its exquisitely contrasting nature. In Crete you won’t just find sparkling beaches and a perfect year-round climate, you’ll also discover the true nature of Greek hospitality, an endearing culture, illustrious history and even more awe-inspiring wilderness. From bustling towns to quaint and quiet villages, from relaxing seaside resorts to rugged mountains and gorges, Crete is like an entire cosmos into itself, and it’s perfect for those who wish to have it all while holidaying in Greece.

Book your holiday rental villa or apartment in Crete and discover the natural attractions which make this, a once in a lifetime holiday destination

The Samaria Gorge National Park is home to one of Europe’s longest canyons, and rated one of the most gorgeous national parks in the whole continent. The 16km gorge is simply spectacular and offers innumerable hiking trails for adventurous visitors. Buses will lead you to the entrance of the park from every corner of the island; from there you’ll need to buy an entrance ticket which is valid for the whole day. The gorge walk is renowned for being tough; sensible shoes and a certain level of fitness are required to complete the hike, even though many visitors choose to do only a section of the walk just to get a glimpse of the striking environment. The ascent towards the beach is very steep at times, so take care and avoid the hike if it has rained or is threatening to rain. The walk can take upwards of five hours, so make sure you come prepared with plenty of refreshments and water to get you through. As you walk through the canyon you’ll be amazed at the natural rock formations, vertiginous walls (some as high as 500m) and intensely rich flora which seems almost hidden from the rest of the world.

At the risk of sounding repetitive, please be aware that this is no ordinary stroll in the park and should not be attempted by people who don’t habitually hike. For greater peace of mind, know that park rangers and their faithful donkeys will come and rescue you should you get horribly stuck with no possibility to continue. Neither the rangers, nor the donkeys, seem too happy with this special arrangement so make sure you come well prepared.

The hike trail ends down on the southern beach (Agia Roumeli), where a ferry will sail you back up to the top of the island. Schedule some time to have a rest and a delicious meal at one of the tavernas along the beach.

If we’ve totally scared you off the Samaria hike then take heart, there is another equally splendid, yet shorter and easier, canyon walk you can do when visiting Crete. The Imbros Gorge may play second fiddle to the more popular Samaria, but we think it deserves much more credit than it gets. Starting from the tiny village of Imbros, the 8km hike is much easier on the knees than its big sister, yet gifts an equally superb wilderness experience. Immerse yourself in a cypress and fig-filled haven and try to spot a kri-kri (wild goat), the most endangered animal on the island. This hike emerges at Komitades, from where you can easily catch a taxi back to Hora Sfakion.

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While most people would agree that a holiday on the French Riviera is about as good as life can get, some would also agree that there are only so many crunchy-bread-smeared-with-creamy cheese-and-washed-down-with-red-wine lunches one can handle. We’d never dare criticise one of the world’s most beloved cuisine, yet it’s nice to know that, sometimes, you do have the option of taking your taste buds on a different tasting trip.

Should you start to have lactose intolerance problems during your next visit to the Cote d’Azur (not exactly unheard of) do take heart. Fréjus, one of the French Riviera’s most picturesque gems is home to a variety of different eateries. Book your holiday rental apartment in Fréjus when next on the Cote d’Azur and, alongside the many cultural and historical sites, you’ll be able to enjoy some fantastic Asian, Spanish and Italian fare.

Restaurant Asia, 813 Boulevard Alger

This may not be the most up-market restaurant in town, but if it’s ridiculously good Chinese food you’re after, then head here pronto! Run by a delightful couple, who fuss over each and every customer like gracious hosts, the restaurant is renowned for whipping up some of the freshest and most delicious spring rolls and noodle dishes in the whole Riviera. Cheap, cheerful and consistently great food makes this a local favourite choice too. The restaurant’s ocean views don’t hurt one bit!

El Patio, 719 Boulevard Mer

The fare offered at El Patio is not excessively Spanish but, certainly, the unmistakable influence of the neighbouring cuisine still makes this a great foreign alternative in Fréjus. The tapas are cooked on the spot and crispy fresh, and the daily catch is offered at reasonable prices and cooked to perfection. The light and uncomplicated concoctions are just perfect on a hot summer’s day, and complemented beautifully by a carafe of sangria.

As people watching must be one of the city’s most beloved attractions, the outdoor seating of El Patio is a lovely bonus to be enjoyed.

Sushi Klub, 19 Rue du General de Gaulle

We don’t know about you, but whenever we go away on vacation the one ‘fast food’ we crave most is always sushi. Luckily for us, Frejus is home to a fantastic restaurant offering a mouth watering selection of super-fresh sushi and sashimi. Sushi Klub is open for lunch and dinner and is popular with trendy youngsters, both local and visiting. The choice of platters (both big and small) is extensive and we love the fact that all their specialties are offered in take-away boxes as well.

Oh…and you know it’s trendy because you can ‘check-in’ on Facebook!

Ristorante Francesco, 400 Avenue Victor Hugo

Sometimes, even on holidays, there’s only so much one can fight one’s Italian heritage. When staying in Frejus, and salivating at the indecent amount of fresh seafood being paraded in the town’s many fresh produce stores, there was really only one culinary thought on our minds: spaghetti marinara!

Oh and how pleased were we when we stumbled upon a little Italian restaurant even mamma would have approved of. At Ristorante Francesco, the pasta was al dente, the marinara sauce piquant, there was nay a flake of parmesan cheese to be seen (it is against the law to put in on seafood pasta you know) and the friendly and boisterous owner made for a great meal out. Keep this restaurant in mind if you crave some authentic thin-crust pizzas too.

If you humour Giuseppe and bop along to his favourite Italian tunes he’ll even share some Limoncello with you at the end of your meal. Buonissimo!

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The oldest district of Lisbon, Alfama, is also considered by many to be its most picturesque. Being the only area of the city not greatly affected by the infamous 1755 earthquake, it still boasts architectural gems dating back a thousand years; and offers the discerning visitor a truly authentic Portuguese experience. Sitting proudly atop a hill above the Tagus River, Alfama also offers some of the most magnificent port-side views in the whole city and, moreover, is renowned as the best suburb in town to watch fado performers at their best. Book your holiday rental apartment in Alfama when you next visit Lisbon, and discover the true source of history and culture in Portugal.

The São Jorge Castle, Alfama’s most prized possession, is the single oldest building in Lisbon. Recent excavation date back its settlement to a few centuries BC, and revealed a whole host of wonderful artefacts dating back to Medieval, Islamic, Roman and Moorish occupation. While some sections of the castle were damaged during the major earthquake, its formidable walls were left standing and its dominion over Lisbon left unscathed. Current archaeological diggings are still revealing priceless treasures, and the castle is as much of a walk-through museum than a mere Lisbon-viewpoint stop. The in-house museum shows an interesting video of the city’s history, and the room it is shown in is the same where King Manuel welcomed back famous explorer Vasco da Gama.

Not surprisingly, Alfama is also home to Lisbon’s oldest church: the Lisbon Cathedral. The church’s initial construction, which dates back to the early 1100’s, replaced an earlier Islamic mosque yet as many additions and restorations were made following various damaging earthquakes, the cathedral showcases an eclectic mix of architectural styles. Gothic vaults, Roman arches, Baroque chapels and excavated Arab mosaics give the church a thoroughly unique and distinctive appearance.

If there’s one cultural attraction no-one should miss seeing in Alfama, it would have to be the Fado Museum. Fado is to Portugal what tango is to Argentina: an intricately woven fibre of the local culture, and learning more about its origins, meaning and intentions is as rewarding as visiting some of the city’s best attractions. Recently added to the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage listing, the Portuguese fado is regarded as the real soul of the country, and this museum showcases its transformations through the decades, as well as giving in-depth info on the history, the instruments and the most famous singers in the country. If you’ve ever listened to fado and thought it was simply a melancholic whinge about love gone wrong, you may just change your opinion and adopt a new found respect for it here.

We must admit, however, that it is not the places in Alfama which make it a superb place to stay when visiting Lisbon, but rather the general atmosphere. If you’ve ever been melancholic about the Europe of days gone by, then simply take a walking tour of Alfama’s windy alleyways and be reminded of the history and culture of our wonderful continent. No modern or futuristic looking buildings here, and almost no trace of the 21^st century…just old rusty trams, characteristic shops and restaurants, folkloric music wafting through apartment windows and a feel that one has just retreated in a much more authentic, and less sterile, world.

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If you’ve been living under a rock, you may not have heard that East London, and in particular Shoreditch, enjoys one of the best coffee cultures in the whole city. And we don’t mean there’s a Starbucks every couple of blocks. While trendy cafés are springing up like wildflowers in this trendy corner of London, there are some that are considerably better than others, and some that serve up some of the finest brew in the whole country. So why not ditch the Twinings on your next London vacation, and come taste some delicious liquid black gold around? Book your holiday rental apartment in Shoreditch, and you’ll not only be in the midst of the most fashionable area in London, but you’ll also have the chance to visit some of the city’s most celebrated espresso-heavens. Following are just some of our faves!

Allpress Espresso Roastery, 58 Redchurch Street

We just love this place! It may be small and yes, the Sunday queues can get a tad annoying, but when you find a café offering the perfect blend of great brunch fare, sublime coffee and a buzzy atmosphere, you should expect to fight for a table on a sunny day out in Shoreditch. A popular local joint, and the perfect starting point to explore the nearby markets, Allpress has a bit of a cult following (well, their Redchurch coffee blend does anyway!) and it’s not hard to see why. With their optimal food and beverage options this is one addictive joint indeed. Pick your holiday apartment within walking distance and you’ve got yourself an enviable holiday morning ritual.

Shoreditch Grind, 213 Old Street London

Shoreditch Grind has a lot more to offer than just its great location. Smack bang in the middle of the Old Street roundabout, the grind is indeed a brilliant place for people watching, but the joint itself pulls in a crowd thanks to its eccentric look and, most importantly, formidable coffee. Owned by an ex-Aussie rock singer, Grind serves one of the best cappuccinos we’ve ever had the pleasure of tasting first thing in the morning, or at any other time of the day for that matter. Grind’s interior decor is superb too: high wooden stools and large bay windows are just ideal for long, lazy brunches and the advantage of Wi-Fi means you can head here every day for your coffee and email fix whilst on vacation in Shoreditch.

Caffe Nero, 40-56 City Road

Caffe Nero seems to be opening up branches all over London, and we couldn’t be happier about that! The coffee is consistently good, and their brekkie selection is just divine. A steaming bowl of their hot porridge topped with delicious berry coulis is the perfect remedy for a chilly London morning. A comfy and inviting place to start or end your days in Shoreditch, Caffe Nero has snug seating, great atmosphere and mouth-watering food. Oh, and some of the trendiest young things in town to ogle at. What more could one ask for?

Climpson & Sons, Broadway Market

An institution in its own right, Climpson is renowned for their fervent allegiance to serving up the best coffee in London. What you’ll enjoy here is freshly roasted coffee blends (thanks to the in-house roaster), home-made sweet and savoury treats and a bright and cosy chilling out space. Spend an hour here, enjoy a macchiato or two and come see why Climpson is one of the busiest joints on this busy café-laden avenue.

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While most tourists to India tend to converge on the beach areas in northern or southern Goa, the central region, and in particular the area around Dona Paula beach, are an absolute treat not to be missed. Conveniently located just a few kilometres south-west of Goa’s capital Panjim, Dona Paula is as authentic as India is. The town boasts a rich history and its natural wonders are second to none; the town was built on the convergence of Goa’s two main rivers and the Arabian Sea, is flanked by enormous palm trees and often called the Lovers’ Paradise for very good reasons.

Dona Paula’s popularity is fast rising, thanks to it being the set of a few Bollywood flicks in recent years; so do yourself a favour and come experience some authentic Indian bliss on your next holiday, before it all disappears. Book your holiday rental apartment or villa in Dona Paula and, if you really can’t just lay on the beach and soak up the rays like a normal person, take advantage of Dona Paula’s more active side. Following are the best places to head to if you need to burn some energy!

Dona Paula Sports Club

The sports club is the place to look for if you want to hire jet-skis, windsurfers, snorkelling gear as well as organize boat, kayak or fishing trips. There are also plenty of fun rides to be had and the sports club rents out bicycles too if you want to explore more of Dona Paula’s surroundings. Just don’t let the name of the club fool you; it’s really just a shack on the beach! Serviced by extremely friendly locals who will go out of their way to organize any kind of activity you want, the sports club is nonetheless the hub of the action on the beach.

Chorao Island & bird sanctuary

If you want to spend a few hours, or a whole day, exploring Dona Paula’s neighbouring areas, then head to Chorao Island just north of town. Take a bus back to Panjim and head for the Ribandar wharf where a ferry departs every few minutes.

Chorao Island may not have an infinite amount of attractions to boast about, but visiting the thriving fishing villages dotted along its coast is infinitely rewarding. While on the island, don’t miss visiting the Dr Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary. Home to a vast array of endemic and migratory birds, the sanctuary is a haven of mangroves, colourful and extremely vocal birds and is ideal for anyone who wants to get a closer look at Goa’s very unique terrain. To organize a guided tour, head back to the ferry wharf on the island and barter with the local canoe owners for a one hour ride along the canals. If you’re a bird expert you’ll know what to look for and if you’re not, no amount of guiding will help so simply enjoy the ride!

Sightseeing

If the pristine waters and inviting sand of the beach are still not claiming your attention, then pack some water, go for a nice afternoon walk and visit Dona Paula’s cultural and historical attractions.

The Goa Governor’s residence (Cabo Raj Rhavan), a 16^th century fortress built on the meeting point of the Mandovi and Zuari Rivers, is the largest estate in the region and is full of valuable artefacts dating back from colonial times. The estate is sometimes open to the public for sneak-peeks.

The nearby British Cemetery is one of the last few mementos of colonial presence here, and its car park actually gifts splendid coastal views so it’s definitely worth the walk from town. Miramar Beach can be spotted from here and the walk there is really lovely.

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