Monday 17 December 2012

Walking in a Winter Wonderland

Christmas, as wonderful a time of the year it is, can be incredibly stressful. Financial and social commitments put a strain on everyone and although it’s always worth it in the end, there can be no denying that Christmas can be a trying time. We’re willing to wager that even old Saint Nick himself gets a little flustered as the 25th gets closer.

So with the stress of Christmas in mind we thought we’d use this blog to share some of The National Trust and Britain Magazine’s ‘Favourite Winter Walks’. Crisp morning air and a chance to escape from the hustle and bustle are an excellent reason to travel in the winter.

Spanning the length and breadth of Great Britain, the list of Favourite Winter Walks takes the reader along some of the most awe-inspiring scenery that the UK has to offer, including the Lake District and the Brecon Beacons. With the possibility of the snow covered panoramas any of the five walks listed have the potential to offer some of the most Christmasy views available in the UK, perfect to lift your Christmas Spirit!

The walks vary in difficulty and, of course, locations, so there is something to be found for everybody, even the most timid of walkers. Get away from ‘it all’ this Christmas with a winter walk!

Monday 10 December 2012

Winter Holiday Preparation

The weeks are really beginning to fly past in the run up to Christmas. If you’ve booked your winter holiday, there’s little time left to plan and prepare for it... and if you weren’t planning on having a winter break, but are partial to a last minute break, there’s even less time!

Preparing for a holiday can be stressful at the best of times, but throw in Christmas and terribly unpredictable weather and you’re left with quite a challenge. We would hate for your winter holiday to be hindered by easily avoidable problems, so we thought we’d lay out a basic guide to help your holiday run as smoothly as possible.

Travel
If you’re planning on travelling by car we advise that you ensure each and every part is in healthy and working order. If possible the car should be serviced in advanced. Always ensure that your car contains the following items just in case. Driving in winter can bring a multitude of challenges and so always be aware of correct driving procedures for the variety of weather you may face.

Weather

Before heading off always check travel and weather reports, the last thing you want is to be stuck in traffic as the snow falls around you! Ensure that you have a fully charged mobile phone and if possible an in-car charger, so that should the worst happen you can contact help.

Packing

Away for Christmas Day itself? Remember to leave room for the many presents you’ll be taking with you (we’re assuming you're a generous soul). Don’t wrap your presents before hand as you’ll run the risk of having to unwrap them at the airport then re-wrap upon arrival...if you’re flying of course!  

Empty Home
Remember that a house cannot look after itself! Burst pipes can be devastating to a house and can ruin your holidays. Remember to set your heating so that this cannot happen.

We hope you have a great holiday this winter. If you would like more advice on ensuring your holiday goes as smoothly as possible, or if you would like to book a holiday after reading this blog then please visit our website: http://www.travellingsuitcase.co.uk/

Monday 3 December 2012

Tis the season for Christmas Markets

There’s only 22 shopping days left until Christmas! To help you out, we thought we’d use this blog to list the best Christmas Markets up and down the UK.

Christmas markets are a great place to pick up something a little different from that found in the high streets. We’d argue that it is impossible not to feel even a slightest bit festive after a visit to a Christmas market, especially some of the ones listed below.

Bath
Over 120 stalls nestled in between Bath Abbey and the Roman Baths. A true contender for the prettiest Christmas market in the UK.

Edinburgh
Edinburgh really knows how to do Christmas Markets. The city hosts three different markets this winter: The German-Style Market, The Traditional Highland Village Market and the Ethical Christmas Fair. With such a great choice of markets there is sure to be something for everyone.

Caerphilly
A Christmas market with a medieval twist. 100 stalls will take to the streets in and around the ancient Caerphilly Castle. But it will not only be stalls taking to the street walkabout entertainers such as a Medieval Magician, Dragon Puppeteers, Jack the Jester and a Dragon Stiltwalker

Manchester
Set in eight locations across the city and covering a wide variety of themes including French, German, gift and craft. A very multicultural affair.

Lincoln
The first Christmas market in the UK and one of the largest in Europe, attracting over 250,000 visitors over its four days. The market is spread around the historic centre of Lincoln and is flanked by both Lincoln Castle and Cathedral.