England Travel and Tourism

Posts Tagged ‘activities’

London is one of the priciest cities in the world so it is crucial that the frugal tourist take advantages of bargains. And there are bargains.
The Oyster Card
In my opinion, one of the best deals for the frugal London tourist is the Oyster Card. This transit card (can be obtained at underground stops including the one at Heathrow) comes with a 3 £ deposit (this deposit is refunded when you return the card) and can be charged with the amount of money needed (any excess will also be refunded).
The beauty of this card is that it calculates the best transit deal for you. It caps out at the day pass rate. That means that you can spend the day on one of those very London red double decker bus, exploring neighborhoods, hopping on and off at stops like the Marble Arch, or Harrods (to window shop) or Portobello Market (for antiques).
Changing Of The Guards
Of course, while in London, a tourist should go see the Queen and the rest of the Royal Family. The closest the average tourist can get is peaking in at the gates of Buckingham Palace and when better to do that than during the changing of the guard.
Every day at 11:30 am, the guards are changed at Buckingham Palace in a rich and colorful ceremony. This free event is usually packed so get there early (activities start at 10:45) or you’ll only be seeing the changing of the Bearskins (those distinctive hats the guards wear).
Charity Shops
British suits are known world wide for style and quality. However, brand new, they are a bit pricey for the frugal traveler. An option is the numerous charity (consignment) shops sprinkled throughout the city.
The quality of the charity shops depend on the quality of the neighborhood. Some shops are filled with designer, haute couture fashion, even outfits worn by Hollywood stars.
The National Gallery And Trafalgar Square
The National Gallery in the famous Trafalgar Square hosts over 2,300 paintings, one of the greatest collections of Western European painting in the world, and its free. Absolutely free (donations are welcomed). Perfect for one of the rainy days London is known for.
London, England has some bargains for the frugal traveler. The Oyster Card provides frugal transportation. The Changing Of The Guard and The National Gallery supplies free entertainment. Frugal shopping can be done at Charity Shops.

Torquay is a beach lover’s paradise. Touted to be the birthplace and unofficial capital of the global surf industry, the waves of this sun and sand town beckon all. Here are some places worth visiting in Torquay.
1. The Surf World Museum, the largest surfing museum in the world is a haven for surfing memorabilia seekers. Pay a visit to the art gallery, to enjoy interactive video clips and photographs of landmark surfing events.
2. If you fancy the thrills of taking an open cockpit flight, the Tiger Moth World Moth Adventure Park has a lot to offer. Visitors will enjoy the flight along the expansive beaches and cliff tops. The 12 Apostles Air Adventure tour is worth taking and it departs daily from their office at Apollo Bay.
3. Take advantage of the opportunity to get surfing lessons at the Torquay Surfing Academy. Book a family kayaking lesson or a paddle boating session for everyone to enjoy. Equipment is available both for hire and sale.
4. The Woodlands is an action packed destination for the entire family. With 60 acres of water coasters, gliders and bumper boats, this amuseument park has 15 play zones and five storeys of play equipment.
5. Saunter along the Cockington Gardens, a tiny yet appealing community village with cottages, a pub and a beautiful mansion. You can also participate in the numerous events that are hosted here throughout the year.
6. Take the Surf Coast Walk, to enjoy a breathtaking coast trail that starts from Jan Juc and passes Aireys Inlet Split Point Lighthouse and Moggs Creek. Visitors will have several options for customizing your trail.
7. The Babbacombe Model Village, nestled in the Babbacombe Bay area has a brilliant display of miniature buildings, vehicles and dioramas amidst lush green and beautifully landscaped gardens.
8. Go on a Foreshore Trail commencing from the Deep Creek Reserve and passing through several good tourist sites like the Sundial, Fisherman’s Beach, Torquay Play Park and Front Beach. Follow the trail to Point Danger to visit the War Memorial and see the wood carvings along the Torquay Back Beach.
9. Take the Australian Skydive at the Torquay Airport and get a magnificent view of the Great Ocean Road and Bells Beach from a high altitude. Visitors can also enjoy freefall and parachute floating activities.
10. Visit the Cowrie Community Market located at the Esplanade for excellent bargains on handmade crafts. You can also listen to local bands play some great music while you shop for souvenirs and artefacts.

A holiday with a family is something one always looks forward to. But there is one big question looming about children enjoying them equally. Many times a holiday gets affected because of this one small, yet a large issue. The tourism department, by and large, have always tried to address all issues that pose a problem.
England is considered to be a tourist’s destination traditionally. It not only has those historic sites, but all those activities to attract children and entertain the whole family. To begin with, The Tower of London is one spot that ranks high on a tourist’s list. Families who have visited the castles watch the crowns that are bejeweled and those chopping blocks wide eyed. Children can be taken to visit Convent Garden where Museum of Transport is located, and they can learn a lot about heavy and light vehicles.
London also awakens the upcoming artists in children who can exhibit their talents by reciting and recording them at the “New” Globe Theater. Yet another delightful treat is in the form of Princess Diana Memorial Playground dominated by a pirate ship replica. Salisbury Cathedral is a place that children would remember for days to come. They are provided with drawing materials to come out with their myth on creatures on its glass windows. Equally interesting would be Wiltshire that falls in Southern side of England.
There are many such places in England that are well equipped to entertain children. Those who are adventurous would love Longleat that has a castle miniature of wood. You will have a great time exploring this castle.