May 3, 2013

Top 5 London museums

Go down any street in London and you will inevitably find something historic. There are scratches on marble doorways from German bombs that fell during the blitz of the Second World War, churchyards holding graves of victims of the Black Death, and more palaces, cathedrals and former workhouses than your eyes can take in. But it is London’s world famous museums that truly give the city a link to the past – and best of all most of them are free (although they do like the odd donation). Here are five that aren’t to be missed.

1. Imperial War Museum (IWM)

The IWM London is housed in an ornate building in South London that used to be an asylum. The insanity of war is displayed over four levels and the museum has one of the largest collections of military vehicles, weapons, uniforms and other paraphernalia that I’ve ever seen. It’s very interactive, with simulations of a World War One trench and London streets during the blitz that will make you feel like you’re actually there. If military history is your thing there is a reading room where the staff will help you dig through the extensive archives.

Imperial war museum

2. The British Museum

This is the most popular of London’s museums and it constantly puts on blockbuster exhibitions to pull in the crowds. The highlights of the British Museum’s regular collection are the Eglin Marbles which were taken from the Acropolis in Athens and the mummies – scores of ancient Egyptian sarcophagi and bandage wrapped bodies in glass cases.

British Museum

3. The National Portrait Gallery

Art as history has never been more interesting than in this gallery at Trafalgar Square. There are floors and floors of classic, quirky and spookily realistic portraits of Britain and the world’s most iconic people. The royal gallery is a must see, if only to trace the family traits passed down the years from generation to generation. Kate Middleton’s portrait is on display now too. The best part is the restaurant on the top floor that serves a high tea in the afternoon where you can munch on scones and cucumber sandwiches while toasting a magnificent view of London with a glass of champagne. Be sure to book early to avoid disappointment.

High tea at the National Portrait Gallery

View from the National Portrait Gallery

4. The Natural History Museum

Right next door to the Victoria & Albert in South Kensington, the Natural History Museum does what it says on the tin. Inside its gloriously decorated sandstone wings you’ll find dinosaur bones, stuffed mammals and one of the world’s largest collections of insects housed in a purpose built multi-storey pod. The Natural History Museum is a very inspiring place that tells the story of the British pushing the boundaries of botany – giving special emphasis to the efforts of Charles Darwin. The collections are impressive but the building itself is stunning and rivals the displays.

Natural History Museum

5. The Science Museum

This museum is definitely the most fun . In the summer the Science Museum keeps its doors open late on the last Wednesday of the month and fills its galleries with DJs and bars so you can have a tipple and learn something at the same time. In normal hours it’s teeming with people shocking themselves on static electricity generators and watching demonstrations of how helium works. Just about everything is interactive and you will come away feeling like a kid again.

The Science Museum Space Capsule

Staying in accommodation from Loving Apartments provides an excellent base to explore London’s museums, and with over 500 apartments to choose from, you are spoilt for choice.

About Dave

David writes the travel blog Double-Barrelled Travel with his wife Carmen. Dave and Carmen hail from Perth but have been living in London for the past four years, travelling around Europe during this time. David is a journalist in his day job but it’s travelling that truly lights his [camp]fire. You can Tweet him @2barrelltravel or find him on Facebook.

April 30, 2013

Top 5 things to do outside in London

London is famous for its weather, and mainly for all the wrong reasons. Fog, rain, snow, sleet and rain again. The city can have four seasons in one day and it’s always advisable to have an umbrella. Don’t let the forecast put you off going outside. London is a maze of amazing things to see and do and a little rain shouldn’t prevent you discovering them. Here are five things to keep you busy outside:

1. Take a walking tour

There are many walking tours on offer, from night time jaunts around central London in the footsteps of Charles Dickens and Jack the Ripper, to more sedate strolls in the wake of royals and poets. One of our favourites is a tour of Soho’s infamous drinking dens with Westminster guide Joanna Moncrieff. You’ll see where the Rolling Stones first met and where bawdy Victorian men used to bet on how many rats a dog could kill for sport.

Sounds of the Universe where the Rolling Stones auditioned on the walking tour

2. Go to a park

The British use the word ‘bracing’ to describe that menthol cool feeling you get taking exercise outside. So even if it’s snowing you can be assured there will be people in the parks walking the dog, running, or even going for a swim in an outdoor pool. It’s great rugging up, slipping on some wellies and going for a ramble in one of London’s many beautiful parks. When the sun is out there is nowhere better to be – expect shirtless everyone, ball games and melted ice-cream everywhere.

Hyde Park London

3. Go on the River Thames

The River Thames cuts through London west to east and is the city’s heart and soul. Thousands of boats ply up and down its fast flowing currents every day and the fastest are the RIBs, Rigid Inflatable Boats. There are a few companies that offer high speed jaunts on these super manoeuvrable craft. I had the opportunity of going on one earlier this year on a freezing cold day. By the end of the 30 knot run my face was numb and my eyes were streaming tears but it was exhilarating. If you don’t fancy going fast there are plenty of cruise operators to choose from too, including one where you can ride on a truck that turns into a boat.

Boat in canal leading to Regents Park – River Thames

4. Ride a bike

The Mayor of London, Boris Johnson, is determined to make the city a cycle friendly place. He pushed through a scheme to provide cheap bikes that are now set up in racks all over the city. They have a corporate sponsor that has the naming rights but people just call them ‘Boris bikes’ instead. They are free for the first half an hour, then cost a pound for an hour and slide up in price the longer you use them. They are a brilliant way of getting around and having a bit of fun at the same time. If you’re more adventurous you can go on biking tours of landmarks further afield such as Windsor Castle or the Surrey Hills.

Get on your Bike

5. Go to the zoo

London Zoo has one of the world’s best collections of wildlife. A big highlight is the Africa section where giraffes frolic in a specially built enclosure. There’s also a reptile house full of killer pythons and other slithering snakes. Some scenes from the first Harry Potter movie were filmed there. The Zoo hosts Zoo Lates in the evenings in summer, where adults can come and have a drink and a dance while they tour the grounds.

Okapi at London zoo

Staying in accommodation from Loving Apartments provides an excellent base to explore London’s outdoor areas, and with over 500 apartments to choose from, you are spoilt for choice.

About Dave

Dave writes the travel blog Double-Barrelled Travel with his wife Carmen. Dave and Carmen hail from Perth but have been living in London for the past four years, travelling around Europe during this time. Dave is a journalist in his day job but it’s travelling that truly lights his [camp]fire. You can Tweet him @2barrelltravel or find him on Facebook.

April 29, 2013

Eating like a local in Menorca

Menorca’s food is a complex blend of historical influences – English, French, Spanish – all melded into delicious and delectable gastronomic treats.

Menorca by Paul Stephenson @ Flickr

Seafood is a highlight. Best known is ‘calderata de llagosta’ or lobster stew, especially renowned in the Fornells area.

Calderata de llagosta (Lobster stew) by Craigemorsels @ Flickr

Escopinys (clams), baked with parsley and garlic; peus de cabrit (sea dates) and arca pelosa (goose barnacles) are also typical dishes. Seabream, sardines, prawns and mullet are delicious local catches.

Escopinys (Clams) by Angela Leese @ Flickr

18^th century English governor, Sir Richard Kane introduced Friesland cattle. The result? A superlative supply of dairy and meat produce. Cheese has been made on the island since 3000 BC. Distinctively flavoured curado now has its own DOP mark. Speciality sausages -‘sobrasada’ (pork and red pepper); carn i xu (lean meat, bacon cubes and seasoning) and camot (black sausage) – are winter favourites and island traditions.

Sobrasada. Spanish Meat Market by Topyti @ Flickr

Menorcans are sweet toothed. Ensaimadas, icing sugar dusted pastries, and coca bamba, the fiesta treats, are particular local favourites. The island’s own ice-cream, Le Menorquina, is sensational. And of course, mayonnaise was invented here. Add local wines and aromatic Xoriguer gin, and a holiday of temptations and delights lies before you.

Ensaimadas by Michael Malecki @ Flickr

Eating habits are typically Mediterranean with a late lunch and siesta, and an even later dinner. Breakfast is sometimes enjoyed twice with an early light continental followed by a later midmorning brunch-style snack.

The Loving Apartments team offer the following suggestions:

For ‘tapas’:

Aroma Sensations ‘Tapas’, Moll de Llevants 314, Puerto de Mahon – stylish harbour-front restaurant offering well-priced ‘new generation’ tapas.

Acuario, Placa di Macaret – informal dining with excellent tapas, and a typically Menorcan rice menu.

Port Mahon (Maó) by Kjunstorm @ Flickr

For the ‘prettiest’ restaurant:

Ca N’olga, Pont na Macarrana, c/ d’es Sol, Es Mercadal – a tardis of a restaurant. Fresh seasonal ingredients are as attractive as the 200 year old restored town house.

Fresh Spanish Produce

For unpretentious family dining:

Ca Na Marga, Ses Salines Fornells, Es Mercadal – Menorcan BBQ cooking of steaks. Fresh fish, pizzas and imaginative deserts are additional attractions in this homely and lively restaurant. Take away service available.

For sea views:

Restaurant Cala Blanca, Av Llevant, 2 Cala Blanca Beach, Ciutadella – moments for the beach, with one of Menorca’s best outdoor dining terraces, and an international menu with Menorcan specials.

For imaginative menus:

Tast, Plaza Pare Camps 21, Es Mercadal – traditional food with inventive twists, and great value lunch set menus.

Orange Salmon by Katherine Lynch @ Flickr

Biosphera, Placa de Na Macaret, Es Mercadal – high quality, value-for-money casual dining. Popular with the young who enjoy a creative fusion of Italian, Mediterranean and Menorcan dishes. Perfect for sunset dining.

For fish and seafood:

El Pescador, c/Rosario 5, Port of Fornells – this bright and airy harbourside location is famous for tasty lobster. Menu del dia is outstanding value.

Café del Nord, Playas Fornells – for a mean ‘calderata’ and sea views.

Paella by Pincasphotos @ Flickr

The Cobblers, Calle San Macario 6, Alaior – nestled in a cobbled side street, quintessential Menorcan 19^th century farmhouse serving imaginative modern seafood with seasonal set menus.

Can Bernat des Grau, Ctra Mahon-Fornells km 3, Mahon – characterful family restaurant. Booking advised as it is popular with locals.

Always check opening hours, as these change seasonally.

Don’t stop at eating like a local, why not live like a local? Loving Apartments provides accommodation throughout Menorca, giving you the perfect opportunity to experience the Real Menorca, as the locals do.

April 26, 2013

Menorca’s Top 10 Attractions

Furthest from the Spanish mainland, and just a fifth of Majorca’s size, this diminutive Balearic island has been truly blessed by nature. Justifiably famous for its dramatic unspoilt coastline, the island is a delight for all who enjoy ‘the great outdoors’, and for those seeking relaxation and simple pleasures. Nomination in 1993 as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve ensured the preservation of this natural paradise for the delight of future generations.

Menorcan Beach

Enjoy the island’s year-round outdoor activities – cycling, mountain biking and horse riding. Water sports offer blissful kayaking, canoeing and sailing, exploring sheltered coves and hidden beaches. Or visit S’Albufera des Grau Nature Reserve with its bewildering range of flora and fauna. The island’s ancient bridle path, El Cami de Cavalls, or ‘path of the horses’ is perfect for bikers, walkers and horse-riders to explore the island’s scenic highlights. Once used by smugglers, this path combines gentle southern stretches with northern challenges.

S’Albufera des Grau by Fran Sima @ Flick

For acclimatisation, enjoy spectacular views from Monte Toro, the island’s highest point at 358m above sea level. A steep, winding road snakes up to the café, gift shop, and Franciscan sanctuary, from where you will be rewarded with 360ᵒ views, with neighbouring Majorca visible on clear days.

View from Monte Toro by Martin Robso @ Flickr

The island is virtually an open-air museum with hundreds of bronze-age sites. Ancient stone remains – taulas, talaiots, and navetas – are scattered everywhere as reminders that life has existed here since 2000 BC. Explore the famous Talati del Dalt near Mahon, and the Navata d’es Tudos, west of Ciutadella.

Navata d’es Tudos

History also created the exquisite sea-front town of Ciutadella. Decimated in 1558 by Barbarossa’s Turks, the Plaça des Born, one of Spain’s most impressive squares, was rebuilt in Renaissance style, complete with Italianate aristocratic mansions. Menorca’s former capital is a labyrinthine maze of cobbled, arcaded streets, and white washed buildings.

Ciutadella by Shelley & Dave @ Flickr

The capital Mahon (Maó) stands proudly over one of the world’s greatest natural harbours. Made capital by the British in 1721, their occupation has left its mark in elegant Georgian architecture. A harbour boat tour is a must to soak up the atmosphere of this vibrant port. A visit to Mahon’s 18th-century Xoriguer Gin Distillery and its bubbling copper stills, is a unique treat. Tastings are available in the distillery shop.

Mahon (Maó) Port by Kjunstorm @ Flickr

Celebrations come naturally to Menorcans, and fiestas are in their blood. Horses are central to these spectacularly colourful events, with the Jaleo, a horseback parade with tail-coated riders being the highlight. Best known are Ciutadella’s June Festa de Sant Joan and Mahon’s Fiesta de Gràcia in September. In summer, streets come alive with craft markets. In the cool of the evening, enjoy a pre-dinner stroll and browse these artisan markets. Ciutadella, Fornells , Ferreries and Mahon all have well-known markets, but there are so many more to be discovered.

Mahon (Maó) Festival by Jazzlog @ Flickr

Each day must end with a ‘sundowner’ as you watch the day dissolve. Seafront cafés, harbour edge bars and restaurants are the places to chill, watch the world go by and see the sun set. This is what memorable holidays are made of. This is Menorca at its very best.

Staying in accommodation from Loving Apartments gives a great opportunity to discover the full potential that stunning Menorca has to offer, and with over 70 options to choose from, you are spoiled for choice.

April 25, 2013

Top 5 London parks

London can be a bit of a concrete jungle with endless rows of buildings, bitumen and barricades. Over the centuries however, the city’s architects have always made sure to include green space, even if it’s just a tree sticking out from the footpath! Here’s our pick of the best open spaces to be found in London:

1. Richmond Park

A short commute south-west, a visit to Richmond Park is almost like going to the countryside. The park itself is huge, covering nearly four square miles, and is listed as a National Nature Reserve. Its sprawling fields and woods are home to more than 600 deer and it’s criss-crossed with bike and running trails that are always teeming with dogs and tweed jacketed ramblers. It’s a magical place. World renowned wildlife presenter, Sir David Attenborough lives close by and even films there occasionally!

Richmond park deer

2. Kew Gardens

Most parks in London are free to visit, but you do have to pay a fee to get inside Kew Gardens. Don’t let this put you off – Kew Gardens is sublime. It’s officially known as the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew and has the world’s largest collection of living plants dotted throughout its grounds and classically styled greenhouses. A highlight is The Palm House, a very ornate iron and glass structure that was built in the Victorian era to house tropical plants. Climb the spiral stairs to get a feel for the humid jungle canopy – quite a treat on a cold English day.

Victorian Staircase at Kew Gardens

3. Regents Park

Situated in North London, Regents Park is one of the best places to be in London on a sunny day. Imagine perfectly manicured flower gardens and lush lawns flowing around a lake, like it’s straight out of Wind in the Willows. You can hire a paddle boat and muck about on the water, or if you’re feeling classical you can hop in a row boat. I recommend the latter; it’s romantic and requires a degree of skill that you can show off to the crowds sunning themselves.

Carmen in Regents Park

4. Greenwich Park

The best way to get to Greenwich is by ferry. Try to grab a seat near the front and you will be treated to a river tour of some of London’s most famous landmarks including Tower Bridge and the Tower of London. The park is a former hunting ground that was used as the equestrian venue at the 2012 London Olympics. Its lawns flow up a hill which hosts the Royal Observatory and the prime meridian, the line from which longitude and Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) is calculated. The sprawling view of London from the hill is truly spectacular.

View fromGreenwich Park

5. Green Park, Hyde Park and St James Park

These three parks are all within walking distance of each other in central London and can be considered the city’s lungs. Green Park is a rather plain reserve close to Buckingham Palace dotted with lots of trees and memorials. St James Park is close to the Houses of Parliament so is a popular spot for government workers to have lunch. Then there’s Hyde Park which hosts Speakers’ Corner where anyone can get up and rant on about something they’re passionate about. There are also statues, gardens, fields and the Serpentine recreational lake where you can take a swim amongst the swans and ducks. All three of these parks are great spots for a stroll or picnic and without them London would be a poorer place.

Deckchairs in Hyde Park

Staying in accommodation from Loving Apartments provides an excellent base to explore London’s parks and green spaces, and with over 500 apartments to choose from, you are spoilt for choice.

About Dave

April 24, 2013

Menorca’s Top 10 Bars

Whilst the bar scene in Menorca is more understated than in its neighbour, Majorca, it doesn’t mean it’s dull. Quite the contrary, as the island has numerous bars where you can chill with friends, enjoy a romantic evening watching the sun go down, or listen to music and dance into the early hours.

Sunset in Menorca

The most famous is Cova d’en Xorai at Cala N’Porter. This is THE place for a sundowner. Spectacularly perched 25 metres above sea level, and set within natural caves you can relax on an outside terrace and feel life’s cares drop away. A bar by day, the mood changes at night to become the island’s music hotspot.

Cova d’en Xorai by MontanNito @ Flickr

Menorca’s capital, Mahon, offers bars for every taste. Akelarre (Moll Ponent 41) is one of the island’s most sought after contemporary bars. An intriguing setting, nestled into the base of old city fortifications, it is famous for cocktails which can be enjoyed in their delightful garden. Appealing to all, the bar is open daily, but only at weekends in the winter. The best mojito can be found at Mambo (209 Moll de Llevant). Known as ‘café del Mar’ with its panoramic verandah views, this harbourside retreat offers daytime snacks, ices and drinks. At night the music flows, as do the cocktails.

Sunset at Mambo (Cafe del Mar) by JCarlitos @ Flickr

La Margarete (c/ Sant Joan Baptiste 6) is a delightful café and bar. Tucked into Ciutedalla’s old quarter, soak up the atmosphere while enjoying an evening drink. After the sun goes down, the music comes up with a resident DJ. Open Mon – Sat; closed Sunday except in August. Central Ciutedalla is also the spot for cosy tapas bar, Sa Placeta (Plaça Artrutx). Perfect for people watching, nibble on the well-priced tapas and Menorcan specialties. Jazzbah (Pla de Sant Joan 3, Ciutedalla) is billed as one of the island’s hippest nightspots. Cool jazz music, a live DJ and a chill-out lounge are all part of this buzzing bar.

Ciutadella bar by Tim Rob @ Flickr

A waterfront location is the magic venue for La Cantina (Addaya Port), a modern open plan café. Favoured by the boating community, the large shady terrace is perfect for drinks. This is also the ideal starting point for a coastal walk to nearby Punta de la Torre.

Mojito

A friendly family atmosphere can be found at Backgammon (Coves Noves). A combined pub and snack bar, this small but bustling location is ideal for family entertainment. A children’s play area, a big screen TV, well priced snacks and a children’s menu, make this the place for all the family. Okapi Bar’s (Centro Comercial 7) elevated position overlooking Playa de Fornells offers panoramic sunset views over the surrounding countryside. This friendly bar has freshly prepared snacks and light meals, a ‘Happy Hour’ for keenly priced cocktails (and children’s non-alcoholic drinks). Both young and old will be warmly welcomed. Open evenings, May to October.

Tequila Sunrise by DrunkenMonkey @ Flickr

If you’re missing English beer, Can Guixó (Coves Noves) offers over 60 brands, together with locally produced gin and tonic. The friendly family atmosphere is always conducive for a drink. Music, an outside terrace and free wi-fi complete the package.

With so much variety, Menorca is a great destination to enjoy the sun with a few drinks. Loving Apartments has various accommodation options that allow you to make the most of this Balearic Gem.

April 23, 2013

Top five fancy restaurants in London

The dining scene in London can be overwhelming, as there’s so much to choose from it can be hard to pick the gourmet from the not-so-great. Plus if you’re paying top dollar, you want to get it right the first time around. To help you, I’ve outlined my top five fancy restaurants to dine in when in London.

1. Chez Bruce

Chez Bruce is a French restaurant a little outside of central London in Wandsworth Common. It’s worth the train ride to this Michelin starred restaurant, however, as the food is delicious. When we went, the service was impeccable and we were served by charming French waiters. I had the pork belly for my main and salted caramel and hazelnut tart for dessert. I was pleasantly surprised to discover it was only £45 for three courses – not too expensive for a Michelin starred restaurant.

Pork Belly At Chez Bruce

2. Dinner by Heston

Celebrity chef Heston Blumenthal is well known for his restaurant The Fat Duck, out in West Berkshire. But the set menu costs £195 per person, and that’s before adding the service charge or any drinks to the bill. If you don’t have that kind of budget, but still want to try Heston’s fascinating recipes, try the restaurant Dinner by Heston at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel. Main courses are much more reasonably priced at around £30 per person. Make sure you taste Blumenthal’s ‘meat fruit’ which is chicken liver and foie gras parfait wrapped in a soft orange casing to make it look like a mandarin. Delightful.

Mandarin At Dinner By Heston

3. Dans le Noir

If you’re looking for a unique experience in London, Dans le Noir is the place to come. You eat completely in the dark – which is why there aren’t any photos for this restaurant – and are served by waiters who are blind. If that’s not unique enough, you choose from four types of menus – vegetarian, meat, fish or ‘surprise’ menu – and are kept in the dark (excuse the pun!) about what they are. I found out I’d eaten zebra at the end of my meal, which was a first for me. Be careful though… you end up eating with your hands because you can’t poke your food with fork because you can’t see it. And don’t drink your cocktail with a straw, as it might end up poking you in the eye.

4. Locanda Locatelli

The Italian chef behind the restaurant, Giorgio Locatelli, has won many Michelin stars and it’s easy to see why. Unlike other fancy restaurants, Locanda Locatelli has an extensive menu so there’s something for everyone. Also unlike other fancy restaurants, certainly for the main dishes, the focus is more on creating homely Italian dishes, rather than creating a visual masterpiece on a plate. That’s not to say the restaurant’s without style. Stepping into the space you’ll know at once you’re in one of London’s top notch restaurants.

Trio of Gelati at Locanda Locatelli

5. OXO Tower

We went to the OXO Tower for our wedding anniversary recently and would recommend it for any special occasion. The view from the restaurant’s floor-to-ceiling windows is spectacular, as it overlooks the Thames River and St Paul’s Cathedral. We found the sharing dishes were the best because they were served with flair. If you order some of the meat plates that are eaten between two, they will carve it at your table. And if you pick the cheese platter they will bring out the cheese trolley and give you an overview of each cheese to help you make your choice. It’s a great place for foodies.

Dave At OXO Tower

London truly offers a spectacular culinary experience and is one of the top destinations for ‘Fine Dining’. Loving Apartments has a wide variety of accommodation available throughout the city, providing a perfect base to discover London’s best restaurants.

About Carmen

Carmen writes the travel blog Double-Barrelled Travel with her husband Dave. Carmen and Dave hail from Perth but have been living in London for the past four years, travelling around Europe during this time. Carmen is a communications executive in her day job but it’s travelling that truly lights her [camp]fire. You can Tweet her @2barrelltravel or find her on Facebook.

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