Photo credit: www-db.in.tum.de

1. Planning

If you are traveling with a group of friends, like I was, take the time before you arrive to meet up and discuss expectations. There will be some who want to spend all day in museums and others who prefer to walk around or sample tapas. Meet with an open mind and be ready to split up for part of the day. For us, it worked best to meet up each evening at a new tapas place or restaurant and hang out discussing what everyone did during the day.

2. Accommodations

Since we were a group, hotels and hostels were not the most budget friendly options. We searched a few apartment rental sites and found a place that met our needs. Added bonus- you get a fully equip kitchen so you don’t have to eat out every meal. This is a great way to save money when traveling.

3. Free Stuff

Most people who travel have a limited budget. Read up on the sites and find what interests you and then take advantage of freebies. Personally, I loved the Prado and think it is one of the most worth-while museums in Madrid but I didn’t pay a cent to see it! It is free for the last 2 hours of each day so if you plan it right, you can end everyday there and get to see almost everything! In any case, I find spending more than 2 hours at a time in a museum is too much for me so this was a great way to see everything and not get tired of it all.

Another great place that is totally free is Plaza Mayor. This is the center of everything in Madrid. There are bars, restaurants, and tons of people watching. If you are on a budget, you won’t want to buy dinner here as it is overpriced, but it is still worth visiting for the atmosphere. Around the corner is a flea market type place where you can buy all of your souvenirs for reasonable prices.

The Naval Museum. Ok, the only reason I really went here is because it was free and close to the Prado but it was actually very interesting! We all know Spain and the navy have a huge connection (think the Armada) and this museum does a great job of giving you the history and adventure of it all. They also have some cool models and I am sure anyone traveling with kids will like this place.

No matter what you do, you are sure to have a great time in Madrid!

Antonio is originally from Italy and currently writes blog articles for a variety of sites. From travelling to gambling articles on http://www.luckynuggetcasino.com/au/online-pokies/, Antonio enjoys the diversity and challenges of writing.

Backpacking is often looked upon as a long tenure, something that should last multiple months or years, and unfortunately this puts some off the idea of backpacking. However career breaks or gap years are not needed to get the most of backpacking! Get the bug for backpacking with a shorter trip, find out what makes you tick and your travelling habits before you make the step to a bigger commitment. One of the best places to start is with a shortly packed group of Islands, step forward the Balearic Islands of Spain…

The Balearic Islands

The Balearic Islands sit leisurely off the east coast of Spain, with a central location in the Mediterranean. The group of three Islands are amongst the most visited in Europe, but don’t let that put you off. Ibiza, Majorca and Menorca combine to create an inviting mix for backpackers. Spend hedonistic nights and relaxing days in the world renowned Ibiza, explore the natural beauty of Majorca and traditional Balearic culture in Menorca.

Land and Play in Majorca

Majorca’s Palma airport can be reached within three hours from every major airport in Europe, so is the perfect point to start a trip around the Balearics. Palma is the cosmopolitan capital of the Island and despite a turbulent past has grown to offer visitors an interesting look at modern Majorcan life. Backpackers should look to move north to get the best of Majorca, with the dominating Tramuntana Mountains a natural playground and showcase of Majorca’s natural beauty. An ideal base for those that want a vibrant location is Alcudia, the north west town has a plethora of bars and clubs and plenty of cheap accommodation.

The Tramuntana Mountains span the complete northern region of Majorca and are of significant cultural and natural significance to the Island of Majorca. The mountains are frequented throughout the year for those that want adventure, including professional cycling teams such as Team Sky. Backpackers can explore the best of the north on two wheels or two feet, with dedicated network and cycle trails making the mountains easy to navigate.  There is a myriad of small rural towns to explore, as well as coastal beaches.

Must Visit - Highly recommended is Sa Colobra beach, the beach is only accessible via a tunnel that has been carved into a boulder near the beach making it a secret to many tourists. With high coastline either sides of the secluded bay every sounds is amplified and there is a lively atmosphere during the summer.

Rave and Misbehave in Ibiza

Hedonistic days and nights are guaranteed in the clubbing capital of Europe. The eternal isle is a selection box of world class night clubs, arenas of dance and beach side bars for backpackers. Join fellow backpackers, dance enthusiasts and of course the world’s best DJ’s for the biggest summer parties. David Guetta, Steve Aoki and Skrillex are summer residents, playing to the masses with their own residencies. Ibiza Rocks is another stand out in Ibiza. The hotel come gig come rave is up there with the most unique hotels in the world, allowing guests to watch gigs from their hotel balconies and live the rock star lifestyle under the Balearic sunshine.

The Island is not all raving though. There is the chance to kick back and relax in Ibiza, and the chance to work off that hangover in of the world’s most beautiful locations. Café del mar plays melodic house music, whilst visitors sip on cocktails and watch the sunset or sunrise.

Top Tip – The opening and closing parties are some of the biggest in Ibiza but tend to cost less. Visit in these months and soak up the party atmosphere with minimum fuss.

Finish it Off and Soak Up the Balearic Life in Menorca

Probably the most tranquil of the Balearic Islands and happy to take that role of quiet little brother is Menorca. Secluded coves and tranquil seas surround the coast, whilst inland you can sample the appealing rural Balearic life for less than it would cost in the more tourist concentrated Majorca and Ibiza. For a taste of the rural life head inland to Biniancolla, here you will find a selection of small cafes and bars for excellent food and a chilled time.

However if you do want a little more excitement head to one of the bigger coastal towns or resorts on the western coast.  Cala Blanca and Cala’n Bosch retain their Menorcan charm but have grown to offer a mix of modern attractions. Skim the turquoise waters on a jet ski or paraglide for amazing views of the Balearics. A great way to end a trip around these endearing and exciting Islands.

More Information – To discover more about the Balearics, see holidays to Majorca with lowcostholidays.com.

The Canary Islands are a great summer holiday destination, with Tenerife and Lanzarote holidays both being popular choices. But where on the islands should you head to, if you want to experience a laid back vibe?

Tenerife

When it comes to package holidays Tenerife is a very popular choice. As the largest of the Canary Islands it offers a fantastic variety of attractions, landscapes and atmosphere.

If it’s RnR rather than RnB that you’re after, you should give the lively resorts of Playa de las Americas and Los Cristianos a miss. Instead, take a look at Puerto Santiago, which is flanked by the spectacular Los Gigantes cliffs, or the beautifully tranquil beach resort of Playa Paraiso.

Lanzarote

Lanzarote is thought to have the best climate of all of the Canary Islands, and is another great choice boasting fantastic weather, amazing beaches and stunning natural scenery.

Puerto del Carmen is a popular resort with over 12km of golden sands. However, as one of the busiest resorts on the island, it’s unlikely to offer you a relaxing, quiet time. The nearby smaller resorts of Puerto Calero and Playa de los Pocillos are far quieter, and the benefit of having Puerto del Carmen on the doorstep is that you can enjoy the attractions of your choosing before retreating to your peaceful base.

Many people believe summer holiday destinations to be all about bustling town centres, busy beaches and lively nightlife, but that’s not the case. There are always quieter resorts to be found, so that you can enjoy some true relaxation on holiday, and return home feeling rested and refreshed.

]]> http://offtrackbackpacking.net/2012/04/17/canary-islands-resorts-to-relax/feed/ 0 http://offtrackbackpacking.net/2012/04/09/spotlight-on-clubbing-holidays-in-magaluf/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=spotlight-on-clubbing-holidays-in-magaluf http://offtrackbackpacking.net/2012/04/09/spotlight-on-clubbing-holidays-in-magaluf/#comments Mon, 09 Apr 2012 05:50:27 +0000 Guest Post http://offtrackbackpacking.net/?p=7318 Magaluf is one of those resorts that everyone has heard of and everyone want to go to. So what’s so special about clubbing holidays in Magaluf?

For a start, there’s an abundance of good value, basic accommodation in the resort, so you won’t have to empty your bank account to afford to stay somewhere decent during your amazing clubbing holidays. The Coconut Studios is a great example of a simple hotel (with the obligatory pool, of course) that’s right in the heart of the action, above a bar on Magaluf’s main strip.

If you want to raise the bar a teensy bit higher (and have a little extra cash to spend), the three star TRH Palma Nova is a good alternative, with a large pool as well as an onsite gym for those who want to keep looking hot in their swimwear while away.

Once you’ve chosen the right hotel for you, you’ll then be spoilt for choice when it comes to beaches. Both Magaluf beach and nearby Palma Nova beach will vie for your attention, so why not share the love and enjoy a bit of both?

After a day soaking up the sun or enjoying the watersports on offer, you’ll be ready to hit the bars and the clubs. As well as the big clubs like Boomerangs and Bananas, you also have great warm up spots like the cheeky Eastenders Bar and the Daiquiri Palace. You also have to take in the Pirates Uncut Show which, with its adults only rating, is no Pirates of the Caribbean-esque kids show!

If you’ve decided that Magaluf is for you this Summer then booking a Club 18-30 holiday will ensure that you’re at the heart of the action. The hottest parties like the iconic School Disco and the amazing Pirates Uncut after party are arranged by Club 18-30, so make sure you’re part of the ‘in crowd’ during your clubbing holiday in Magaluf.

When love is in the air and the bells are ringing, some are willing to pay a hefty price for a perfect honeymoon destination. Whether they can afford it or not, some will spend up to a few thousand dollars per night on their honeymoon. But not everyone is willing to pay that much. There are affordable options out there that can offer a romantic getaway without breaking the bank account!

While some Europeans go on Canaries Holidays regularly because of its close proximity to Europe, others, such as North Americans, consider it a honeymoon destination, and with reason. This Spanish archipel holds a population of around 2 million and offers an array of accommodation that meets everyone’s needs. You can find hotels that range from $50 to $500 per night. Both food and accommodation is generally lower than most holiday vacations in Europe.

The archipel holds various islands. Gran Canaria, Tenerife, Fuerteventura are some of the most popular. Beaches are crowded during the peak season. If you’re looking for a more quiet place, you should consider La Palma, Lanzarote or La Gomera islands.

Here is some info on some of the islands:

• Gran Canaria: They call Gran Canaria the “little Venice” because of the small streets and pedestrian feel of the town. The island offers various landscapes, beaches and some hiking options.
• Tenerife is one of the most touristic islands so if you don’t mind sharing the beach, it can be an option.
• La Palma is less touristy than some of the popular islands, such as Gran Canaria. There are also apartments and houses to rent in the area so it’s a perfect option if you can a peaceful honeymoon and some privacy. It has beautiful sunsets although it’s not the best island for sunbathing because it doesn’t have sandy beaches.
• Fuertaventure is an island full of adventure! It offers nice beaches and nice walks along the coastlines. However, it can get windy at the times so you may get sand blasted.. warning! But, it’s great for surfing!
• La Gomera is a quiet island because there aren’t as many tourists. The sandy beaches are smaller and you can also find some nudist ones if it interests you!

Would you consider traveling to the Canary Islands for your honeymoon?

Benidorm is located between Barcelona and Alicante in Marina Baixa. In the last few decades, the town of approx 70,000 residents transformed itself into a tourist bustling resort town with hotels and skyscrapers along the 6km long coastal beaches. Similarly to other coastal towns in Spain, most tourists come from the UK, Germany, Belgium and the Netherlands since hotels began offering “all-inclusive” packages, packages North Americans are all too familiar with. I would compare a town like this to one in Mexico because they’re both in developed countries but do have specific town designated to tourism only.

Nerja, Spain

It’s the perfect place if you’re looking for sun, beach, party and lots of tourists. There are multiple bars and cabaret acts in Benidorm so you can easily be entertained. But if you’re looking for some quiet time, I’d suggest you reconsider Benidorm because you may be disappointed. If you don’t enjoy a beach surrounded by hotels or tourists, consider a smaller town in Spain such as Nerja. Of course, you will find tourists there but it’s a quaint little beach in Costa del Sol.

Explore the architecture designs of Antoni Gaudi. His architecture is famous and unique all across the world. It’s completely different from any structural design than any architecture has ever built before. His design is described as expressive, part modernisme, part Gothic, and original. It has defined the city of Barcelona and has created an image of nature and religion in each Catalan soul.

photo credit: thedelightsofseeing.blogspot.com

One of the most, worth well day trips to do in Spain is to visit the village of Segovia. It’s only a quick trip from Madrid. Segovia has two main historical sites to explore, first being the aqueduct, which is a thousand years old and still in pristine condition. The second is the Disney’ Sleeping Beauty, usually known as the fairytale castle of Alcazar. It has the feeling of a fairytale castle look.

photo credit: artgazer.blogspot.com

A must see is the traditional folk music dance, the Flamenco. It’s one of the only still unique types of music that still exists today, which is very popular among the locals and tourists. It’s usually found around gypsy weddings, spontaneous bars, or even to the extreme in Spain’s prisons. But to really experience this traditional dance, visit a local bar and you will be sure to catch a glimpse of it.

photo credit: dublin.wordpress.com

A dish that you need to try is called Paella. It’s a famous Valencian dish, that consists of rice, vegetables, meat (chicken, duck or rabbit), or seafood, snails, and beans. It’s very popular among the locals, and frankly not trying this dish is missing a big part of the Spanish culture.

photo credit: whatscookingamerica.net

A new movie that recently came out called “The Way” is about the Camino de Santiago. A wonderful story about a father who completes the journey of the Camino de Santiago, in memory of his son. (Must see movie) The Camino de Santiago is an ancient pilgrimage to the tomb of St. James in the Santiago Cathedral. Many people walk this road across northern Spain every year. It’s a lifetime honor to achieve the certificate of this journey.

photo credit: tessahurlbert.blogspot.com

Experiencing a real Bullfight! Not as popular has it once was, due to animal activists but it is a part of the Spanish culture today. It’s a part of the history of Spain and maybe evening see a bullring is a better choice too. But stepping into history and seeing a bullfight or ring is a must when visiting Spain.

Photo credit: danheller.com

photo credit: in2menorca.com

Just off the coast of Spain a small island called Menorca is known for one of the best summer vacation spots within Europe. Many Europeans flock to this island because of its sandy golden beaches, clear turquoise waters, and it’s spectacular scenery across the countryside. But to find the best, quiet little corners of the island, where most tourists miss out on is by hiring a car. For car hire in Menorca, it’s all pretty easy. All you need is a driver’s license. With a small map of the local roads you can uncover the island’s beautiful hidden coves, local villages, 18-century churches, and green rolling hills.

Menorca is the second largest island out of the Balearic Islands of Spain. Every year the island continues to grow in population, but as of now there are about 68,000 people living there fulltime. It’s an island perfect for families to enjoy not only a beach day, but also by exploring historical sites and learning its history. The oldest town and once capital of Menorca called Citadella is a township filled with historical tourist attractions and thousands of paths to walk around and discover. Not only does centuries of history run along these beautiful coastlines, but also does small fishing villages. On the northern shorelines of the island many quiet fishing villages exist. Where lobster and delicious seafood is high in quantity and its the local’s favourite feast to eat after a busy workday. Just a few villages over, there lays a perfect place for those who are nightlife lovers. A very popular nightclub called Cova D’en Xoroi is located inside of a cave and is now among the top hot spots on the island to enjoy some Spanish music. With so much to see and do, no wonder the Europeans love this summer vacation destination.

Primavera Sound did not disappoint, it was sensational, the line-up was delectable and the weather was invigorating. I lost my credit card in an albeit sketchy looking bank machine before the inaugural trip to the festival grounds. Our mobile phones meant their demise one after the other, some lost amongst a sea of people, others in the fountain at Placa Reial and most often dead due to an expired battery life. Despite all this, we managed to stay together (or at least meet up at pivotal places) and to keep each other fed, with adequate drink for the next four days. Our meeting point was first at the silent disco and next at a giant slide just uphill from the main stage so that as a temporary nomad, you would be adequately amused whilst waiting for the others to find you. Life was good. I ran hand in hand with my festival boyfriend from stage to stage, to the slide and back again, dancing and laughing like a child at the playground after a long cold winter of playing indoors.

I had a 6:00 am flight booked on Monday morning which meant I had to leave the hostel at 2:00 am to make it to the airport on time. I set an alarm, packed my bag, armed myself with my pre printed boarding pass and a 50 EUR note (graciously given to me to hold me over until I could get cash after my lost card fiasco) and set off on foot up La Rambla. Following an extremely broken conversation with a few police officers and a couple taxi drivers, I was on my way to a bus station rumoured to provide a bus to Reus, the next town over where a certain budget airline operates. The rumours were true and where the possibility of cheap flights exist, people come. I was exhausted and anxious but certainly not alone waiting on the platform at 3:00 am.

The flight went off without a hitch, I even unwittingly pre paid to check my backpack. Therefore while other young travelers argued with staff at the boarding gate over the size, shape or weight of their packs, I ate my orange, sipped my smoothie and sat back until I could slide on the plane, sleep and wake up in Sevilla. My honeymoon ended there. Whenever I arrive in a city by myself I go through the same process a) eat a sandwich (I do not wish to be hungry for b, c and d), b) get to the city center, c) find an internet cafe and d) book and find a hostel. Unfortunately this time things went sour after b). I am thankful that I booked my flight early because I did not find an internet cafe until 11:30 am. Speaking another language becomes infinitely more difficult when you are tired, I was so tired at this stage and the extreme heat was not helping my cause but I managed to get directions from a patient man at a fancy hotel. I got on a computer and noticed they had a Skype headset … all the sudden all I wanted was to speak to my mother! I called home (5:30 am EST) and my mom answered but the Skype headset must have been for show because I could hear her but she couldn’t hear me. “Hello, hello, hello … hello, Kate?” That was apparently all my exhaustion and emotion-filled boat needed to capsize. There I was, sitting in an internet cafe wearing a faulty headset crying.

I pulled myself together, emailed Mom to confirm it was me and to reassure her that I was okay, booked a hostel and got directions from the woman at the cafe, who was likely relieved to be rid of the emotionally unstable Canadian who looked as if she was going to destroy all the headsets. I found my hostel at long last, took a shower, bought some groceries, explored the area and slept for a good 12 hours that night. I traveled from Sevilla to Granada without too much trouble and before I knew it, I found myself safe, sound and among good company in Playa den Bossa, Ibiza rested and ready for techno adventures to come!

Written by: Katie Chesher