Big Toho Airboat Rides

If you’re interested in adventure, or if Lake Placid didn’t scare you to death, try this boat ride through the Florida Everglades. Keep an eye out for eagles, wild pigs, and even alligators! At the end of the tour you can have your photo taken while holding a live alligator. An added bonus: the airboat rides take you to the heart of Orlando’s top parks and attractions – perfect if your ideal holiday includes both a gator and Mickey Mouse.

Aquarium of the Bay

But if you’d rather keep some distance between you and the wildlife, try San Francisco’s top waterfront aquarium. Aquarium of the Bay is home to over 20,000 marine animals, including octopi and sharks, housed in a massive aquarium tunnel network for an immersive viewing experience. The aquarium is located in Fisherman’s Wharf, a historical district packed with museums, attractions and top restaurants.

Clipper City Tall Ship Tours

Let’s say your ideal day on the water looks more History Channel than National Geographic. Though boat tours of New York City are a dime a dozen, Clipper City tours stands out by offering great sights aboard a realistic clipper ship, just like the pirates and sailors of old. With a variety of tour options (including a craft beer tasting sail), Clipper City offers a few ways to channel your inner history nerd and explore the city at the same time.

RocketBoat Rides

That’s all well and good, but when the summer heat strikes, maybe you want to get wet. Look no further than RocketBoat, San Francisco’s white knuckle bay tour. This speedy boat takes you beneath the Golden Gate Bridge, around Alcatraz, and around the historic waterfront, all to a rock and roll soundtrack. Be prepared to feel the San Francisco Bay’s spray while on your ride!

Hornblower Cruises

Looking for something a little more fancy? Board a Hornblower Cruise, which combines the sights on the New York Harbor with top-notch dining. Select from a variety of cruise options, from the Skyline Brunch Cruise to the Starlight Dinner Cruise, complete with four-course meal. These luxurious tours are the perfect way to cap off a busy day or weekend of sightseeing around the city.

Get 20% off your food tour.

1, South Beach Walking Food Tour

Don’t even try to make a brunch reservation at this late hour. If you’re in the Miami area for Mother’s Day, treat her to a leisurely stroll on the famous South Beach, complete with a culinary tour. Your walking tour includes visits to an exotic selection of restaurants, featuring Cuban cuisine, French treats, and even a stop at the home of Miami’s best gelato. The tour covers the Art Deco district of the city, awash with unique architecture and dramatic history. Come with an open mind and an empty stomach.

2, Radio City Stage Door Tour

You say your mom is more of the ‘glitz and glamour’ type? If you’re in NYC, then look no further than Radio City Music Hall. Take a tour of the theatre’s stunning art nouveau – both in front of and behind the curtain. You’ll visit the iconic stage up close and personal. And for a photo op that can be used for blackmail for years to come, mom can meet one of the Rockettes and even take part in the kick line.

Dine in luxury and get a unique view of the Manhattan skyline.

3, Magic on the Bay

Sometimes, the greatest gift you can give mom is the chance to feel like a kid again. And if you want to be remembered as her favorite child, snap up tickets to Magic on the Bay, San Francisco’s most popular magic theater show. Enter a spectacle of mind reading and illusion, where you might be called upon to participate in the show! Best of all, you can make it a full day out, as nearby Pier 39 is home to a festive marketplace with myriad shopping and dining options.

4, World Yacht Cruises

For a night that’s a little more fancy, try New York’s World Yacht Dinner Cruise. Mom will love a top-notch dinner service aboard a luxurious cruise. If the dancing and socializing offered aren’t your thing, take in the spectacular views along the Hudson River. You’ll spot the Chrysler and Empire State Buildings, among other landmarks.

Flickr: HerryLawford

Chelsea Flower Show

The crowning jewel of spring in the UK is arguably the Chelsea Flower Show: the annual celebration that covers the 11-acre grounds of the Royal Hospital with a variety of floral displays. This year, from May 21st to May 25th, the show marks its centennial, so expect a retrospective photo exhibit and a gallery of garden retreats designed by well-known artists, in addition to more than 500 horticultural displays.

Athelhampton House and Gardens

Hidden just outside Dorchester, the Athelhampton Estate has changed hands multiple times over 500 years among a series of owners who have refined the house and gardens into a beautiful retreat. The grounds of the house are still kept in pristine condition, from the pyramid-sculpted yew trees to the Octagonal pond decorated with its own seasonal flora. Or head inside the house, where the gallery houses a collection of Cubist works, as well as a series of classic films.

Flickr: mmmavocado

Chelsea Physic Garden

Somehow within the heart of London is hidden a floral escape straight out of The Secret Garden. A free audio tour introduces you to the garden’s historical exhibits, including the Garden of Edible and Useful Plants, as well as a series of plants uses as medicine by cultures around the world. Or simply take in the sun and see if you can spot Britain’s largest fruiting olive tree, or what might be the world’s most northern outdoor grapefruit tree.

Portmeirion Village and Gardens

The secret to Portmeirion’s year-round temperate climate is the Atlantic jet stream that keeps its colourful and diverse range of fauna in bloom at all times. This Welsh village is designed with Italian architectural elements and 70 acres of feature gardens and woodlands. After your stop at one of Portmeirion’s many cafés and attractions, stroll around the stylized Roman baths and among the over 5,000 species of plants, from California redwoods to New Zealand dancing trees.

Muncaster Castle and Gardens

This medieval castle in the Lake District offers a bed and breakfast with café and children’s play area, but the crowning jewel of the estate is the sweeping garden dating back to the 18^th century. The Estate takes pride in its conservation efforts of endangered plants and trees, and additionally is home to one of Europe’s largest collections of rhododendrons. And for animal lovers, Muncaster hosts the World Owl Centre, a conservation charity that offers a chance to interact with the birds, or even adopt an owl!

Flickr: Whitelance

Grab some goodies at the Flea Markets

Early mornings are the perfect time to visit the flea markets so that you can avoid the afternoon rush and grab the early morning treats.

Albert Cuypmarkt

This is the largest and busiest market in Amsterdam filled with an array of Dutch delights and many food specialities including exotic herbs and spices. Beyond the exquisite foods you can shop for almost anything from clothing and cosmetics to bedding and ornaments. This market is all-consuming so beware not to lose track of time.

Bloemenmarkt – Flower Market

Amsterdam is home to the one and only floating flower market in the world. This spectacular flower market floats along the canal making for a great sightseeing spot and is a must for any visitor. You can also buy some of the nation’s famous tulip bulbs to take back home with you. If you are still more interested in discovering facts about the national flower then head on down to the Tulip Museum and prepare to be amazed.

Indulge aboard the Pancake Ship

Dutch pancakes are to die for! This pancake ship experience is unlike any other where you can discover the city from an entirely different angle whilst pigging out on an unlimited number of pancakes. Whether you like sweet or savoury pancakes, traditional ones or new designs with random toppings, you’ll find a pancake to suit your taste on this ship; so don’t miss out.

Meander your way through the canals

Amsterdam is known as the Venice of the North. Canals meander around almost each and every corner throughout the city. You can enjoy a peaceful boat ride and admire the incredible architecture and landscapes that Amsterdam proudly boasts. Or you can take a stroll around the city discovering the hidden gems of Amsterdam along the way.

Explore the city by  bike

Transport in the crazy streets of Dam is a fun, scary and exhilarating experience all in one. By day, you can attempt to blend in with the locals who will literally zoom past you in a flash from every direction. It’s a fast, easy (if you’re daring) and exciting way of getting around the city, and whether you’re part of a tour or cycling individually this is a must do activity in this city. Get 20% discount off Green Budget Bikes with our smartsave discount voucher.

Go back in time and share the diary of Anne Frank

Go back in time to the Second World War and understand the tragic story of the young diarist Anne Frank. This canal front house portrays the Franks’ lives during this detrimental period and tells their story through the exhibits, architecture and unfurnished rooms. If you’ve read the book, watched the plays and seen the films, then this visit will be the cherry on top, bringing all the other experiences to life.

Lay back, relax and soak up the sun on the buzzing beaches

When you think Amsterdam, you’d think a city destination, shopping and sightseeing as opposed to sun, sand and sea. This is a surprising little city which has literally a bit of everything, which means you can head down to the beach without leaving the city. The Dam boasts three main beaches: the Strand West, Strand Zuid and Strand Ijburg. If you’re a student and young you’ll enjoy Strand Zuid, if you’re looking for a little luxury Strand West is more your scene and if you’re style is more alternative or you’re a young family then Strand Ijburg is right up your street, these beaches are perfect for a summery afternoon.

Escape the city and enter the secret gardens

Flickr – nsanch

Beyond beaches, a city life and canal mazes, Amsterdam has yet another hidden secret. The Begijnhof Courtyard is Amsterdam’s secret gardens and a place of tranquillity right in the middle of the city. It’s a real hidden gem which boasts a 15^th Century Church and picturesque gardens. You’ll forget you were in the city once you enter this little bubble of peace.

Get Inspired by art

Get swept away by inspiring art work at Van Gogh’s Museum where you can appreciate the masterpieces and get to know the fascinating history of Van Gogh that inspired his work. Stedelijk, the modern art museum is hard to miss; this bath tub shaped museum displays impressive modern and contemporary art.

Experiment with foods

There are lots of Dutch delights which have to be tried. For those of you with a sweet tooth try the Poffertjes – fluffy small pancakes and stroopwafels – which can be taken home with you if you really like them. For those of you with a passion for new foods, try a raw herring – it’s like marmite, you’ll either love it or hate it.

Flickr – dun_deagh

 1.      Edinburgh Castle

A visit to Edinburgh without visiting the notorious Edinburgh Castle just wouldn’t be complete. This majestic masterpiece stands tall upon an extinct volcano and declares the city’s skyline.  Be dazzled by the crown jewels, enlightened by the history and be surprised by the 1pm firing of a thunderous field gun.

2.      A View from the Hill Tops

Although the castle sits at the highest point and dominates the skyline, Edinburgh boasts seven hills from which the city can be seen from different angles. Arthur’s Seat, the tallest of them all is a must climb hill for both breathtaking views and so you can go home saying you climbed a volcano! Calton Hill offers equally exceptional views of Edinburgh and overlooks the Old Town, Princess St and the Parthenon and Nelsons Monument.

3.      National Gallery of Modern Art

Not everyone is interested in history. Some of you may prefer attractions with a modern vibe. The Scottish Capital definitely has this on offer. This art gallery comprises a collection of both contemporary and modern art from major artists including Matisse and Picasso. You can also enjoy coffee on the terrace and ice-cream to calm the kids.

4.      Spooks and Thrills

The best way to see the city is on foot, and despite the city’s marvels during the day it definitely has a dark side. The dark tours of Real Mary King’s Close revealing the 17^th plague will spook you right the way back to your hotel.

If the ghosts aren’t enough and you’re still in need of a thrill then head on down to the Edinburgh Dungeon where you’ll be screaming down the rides and jumping around every corner as you take a walk down Scotland’s Gruesome past.

Flickr: Arkadiusz Benedykt

5.      Scottish Whisky Museum

For all the whisky lovers, this is your paradise. Experience a barrel ride as you tour through the various stages of the whisky making process. Of course, one of the real highlights is being able to taste the whiskies too. And as for those of you who haven’t tried whisky beyond the standard Jack Daniels, you’re in for a real treat and will go home a whisky expert.

Flickr: apes_abroad

6.      Enjoy a Natural Botanic Beauty

Sometimes just enjoying natural, expense-free attractions can be surprisingly enjoyable. This versatile city not only boasts an extinct volcano, a vibrant city life and an array of historical monuments, but it’s also is home to the Royal Botanic Gardens right in the heart of the city centre. From the inside, it’s hard to imagine that you’re located in a bustling city, so it’s the perfect get away for some peace and quiet.

7.      See Yourself Like Never Before at Camera Obscura

If you didn’t fancy trekking up any of the seven hills but wish you could’ve seen the views, this is a must-visit attraction for you. The rooftop views offer 360 degrees panorama of the city and binoculars to extend your view into the city and beyond. Ever wondered what it would be if you were taller or shorter? Or have you ever wondered yourself as an ape? It’s probably best you keep that second thought to yourself and visit the Puzzling Zone to fulfil both curiosities.

1. Spend the day getting lost in Harrods

Sure, Harrods is quite the spectacle at Christmas, and yes, the clothes are breathtaking, but this is no time for a cosy day in! Instead, pop in for a quick treat at the ice cream bar on the mall’s second floor and then take your walk outdoors to nearby Hyde Park. Wander around until you find the rose garden, which should be in full bloom.

2. Take the Underground

When the winter’s chill is in the air, the inside of a tube car seems warm and inviting. Come spring, however, it becomes a crowded, sweaty mess. Take your journey outside – you would never know how close Leicester Square and Covent Garden are if you’re stuck to the Underground.

3. Indulge in classic fish and chips

Let’s be honest here. The December to January bulge can be bundled up with winter coats, but now we’re all showing a little more skin. Shorts and sundresses are among the least forgiving outfits for one too many pints down at the pub or that extra order of chips. For a lunch that fits your spring style (and the ever-present spectre of swimsuit season) make your way to one of London’s myriad farmers’ markets. Brixton’s offering boats sunny reggae music, colourful product and a casual vibe.

4. Spend ANOTHER night in a dark pub

We know what you’re thinking. ‘Pubs are part of the London Experience,’ you say. ‘You can’t deprive me a pint with the boys!’ True. All we’re saying is there’s something bleak about foresaking the (however brief) appearance of the spring sun to spend the evening in the same Taylor Walker joint. Sip your drinks in one of London’s stylish rooftop bars. The Dalston Roof Park, for one, lives up to its name with plent of flora and fauna to spare – not to mention a frozen margarita machine.

5. Take the kids to a museum

We can practically hear you putting your foot down on this one. Before you start in on how educational the Natural History Museum is, think of how your kids will be whining to get outside after the winter’s quarantine. That’s enough to put you off a family outing. If you’re determined to get some learning in, pack up the family and let them loose in the London Zoo, just north of Regent’s Park. The worst you’ll get is one of the little ones begging to bring home a new pet.

Flickr – K_Dafalias

Jardin du Luxembourg (Luxembourg Gardens)

The Luxembourg Gardens are perfect for a morning or afternoon stroll. Enjoy a picnic breakfast/lunch with your family and friends. Not only is it an inner-city oasis with lush lawns and apple orchards, it has numerous organized activities including puppet shows, tennis and pony rides.

Arc de Triomphe

Standing tall at the end of the Champs-Elysées is a mark of history, a national symbol and an arch that links the old and new Paris. Take pictures of and with this historical monument, and even take the opportunity to climb to the top and enjoy a view of the breathtaking Parisian landscape, including the Champs-Elysées and the Eiffel Tower.

Shopping!

Champs-Elysées

Like Oxford Street in London, Fifth Avenue in New York and Orchard Road in Singapore the Champs-Elysées in Paris is a shopper’s paradise. From Louis Vuitton level luxury to your familiar high street retailers you’ll find everything here. As for those of you who aren’t quite the shopping fanatics and are simply being dragged along by the girls, there’s more to this parade than just shopping. With plenty of cafes and restaurants you can enjoy people watching and eating French food. Also, if you have a chance, take a look at the impressive Mercedes Benz and Renault showrooms filled with amazing exhibits.

Galeries Lafayette’s

Paris is one of the top cities to shop in, and the Galeries Lafayette’s is the perfect place to enjoy an indoor luxurious retail experience. Famous brands include Dom Perignon, Michael Kors, Vivienne Westwood and Swarovski; and if you get tired of shopping, head on over to the terrace and find yourself an incredible view of Paris.

Sacre Cœur & Montmartre

Flickr – Serrotoicram

Montmartre, an incredibly cultured village within the city well known for its artists and old French cultural aura sits above the city on a hill. And situated on the hill is the Sacre Coeur, an architectual marvel. Climb up to the top of the hill and enjoy a perfect view of the sun setting in the city’s panorama. There are also plenty of small and cosy cafes at the top where you can enjoy mouth-wateringly fresh and warm crepes.

Moulin Rouge

For the final touch to your stay in Paris, take a visit to the world famous Moulin Rouge. Either enjoy an evening of dining and a cabaret show experience or simply take a walk down the street where the Moulin Rouge is located and take pictures before going for dinner on your final night.

Good Morning Paris!

With temperatures increasing, more sunshine, blooming daffodiles and warmer days, Paris is a delight in Spring, but with such stunning architecture and beautiful people, it’s a genuine delight at any time of the year.

After an amazing sleep in fresh hotel sheets wake up feeling ready for a weekend of excitement and adventure. With only two days to pack everything in we know you’ll want to get straight into the sightseeing, but don’t skip on the traditional French breakfast, as you’ll be needing fuel to power the amazing day out ahead!

Paris is filled with cafes and bakeries, so for the full experience, indulge in fresh croissants before you start your day.

Enjoy a French breakfast before you head out on your adventure. Flickr – FacaffA

Say ‘Bonjour’ to the Eiffel Tower

The second you reach Paris you’re looking for the Eiffel Tower; so why wait a second to get up close and personal with it. Head down to the Champ de Mars where the towering icon stands at 1,050 ft tall. Take pictures beside it, in front of it or head on up it and let Paris speak for itself.

The Much-Loved Museums of Paris

After that awe-inspiring view of the Eiffel tower, head on down to the museums.

Musée d’Orsay

If you’re willing to walk a little and enjoy Paris by foot then promenade along the River Seine to the Musée d’Orsay. But, if walking is a bit too much, then the metro is a quick and easy alternative. This museum built in the early 1900s stands in a grand railway station. It displays various forms of 19^th and 20^th century art from paintings and sculptures to engravings and architecture; and also proudly exhibits timeless pieces from the famous Monet, Cezanne and Van Gogh.

Flickr – Zoetnet

Musée du Louvre

Musée du Louvre is an aesthetic masterpiece, a Parisian landmark and a part of history. There are tours and activities on offer giving in depth insight to the museum and the masterpieces for both regular museum-goers and first-timers. It also boasts the three great ladies masterpieces: the Venus de Milo, the Victory of Samothrace, and the Mona Lisa. A Paris trip without a visit to the Louvre would be bland like a cupcake without icing.

Notre Dame de Paris

This Roman Catholic Church is simply a breathtaking work of art. A majestic vision of architecture on the exterior and on the inside more impressive than you could ever imagine. With its grandeur stained glass windows and intricate gothic architecture, whether you’re religious or not this is worth a visit. You can also climb up to the top and enjoy a splendid view of Paris’ Southbank.

Ride Along the River Seine

After all that walking you’re probably starting to get a little tired and hungry. To wind down, take a relaxing boat ride along the River Seine. As the sun begins to set, discover Paris in a different light as you glide past some of the most beautiful monuments in the world.

Paris by Night

If you were amazed by the Eiffel tower during the day, you’ll be speechless at night. Hop on the metro and head down to the Trocadéro metro station and see how Paris comes alive when the sun goes down. Both enchanting and magical, Paris really lives up to its title as the ‘City of Lights’. The view from the illuminated Eiffel Tower is literally picture perfect and timeless. Regardless of how many times you’ve seen it, this icon will never cease to amaze.

So we’ve listed these fun and creative activities that you can all do together as a family at home.

Get crafting with the kids this Easter.

Card-Making and Egg Painting

Kids are easily entertained with colour, cards, paints and crayons and a crafting session is the perfect way to start off the holidays. It’s simple, easy and it’s entirely up to you the amount of effort you put into each creation.

You will need:

• A pack of coloured card or paper
• Emptied eggs
• Colouring pens/pencils
• Coloured felt
• Glue
• Scissors
• Stick-on eyes.

Let them be creative and decorate their own cards and eggs. You can nudge them in the right direction with your own paintings of eggs, bunnies and chicks.

To make it easier for young ones you can also go on the internet and print some pictures to colour in or cut out and stick on the cards.

We’re going on an Egg Hunt

Easter without chocolate eggs and a good old egg hunt is like Christmas without presents or tree; they are a must. Most shops are now fully stocked with Easter eggs ready for the end of the month.

You will need:

• A few small sheets of paper
• A pen
• A packet of chocolate mini eggs (the ones in coloured foil, as they’re easier to find)
• One medium-large Easter egg as the final prize.

Rather than just hiding them and having the kids tear the house apart in search of them, think of 10 different hiding places and at each hiding place leave a clue leading to the next egg.

The clues should be exciting but also educational by including age appropriate quizzes and conundrums. The final hunt for the big egg can be made a little different by drawing up a treasure map for the children to follow.

Be creative! It may take some time to draw up a map and think of some clues, but it’s an activity that will be great fun for you and the kids.

Enjoy Easter’s hot cross buns that come a little earlier this year. Flickr – Nick Saltmarsh

Baking buddies

What better way to bond with the kids than with some good old fashioned baking and cooking. Kids love making things and getting messy, and cooking is the perfect recipe for this. As Easter is a holiday full of traditions, the foods made are also traditional. These are a few suggestions that are easy to make and yummy to eat:

Hot Cross Buns

Hot Cross Buns are a timeless Easter tradition and favourite. Requiring just a few ingredients they are great fun to make and are a must (whether making or simply eating) during Easter.

With your little helpers and all the right ingredients you and the kids will have a fun afternoon baking these yummy treats.

Chocolate Nests

The chocolate nest recipe is healthy, easy to follow and deliciously rewarding.  You can make plenty of these little chocolate nests to treat all their friends and even your own friends to show that you’re in the festive mood.

Have a creative and crafty Easter

There are plenty of arts and crafts activities that you can do with the kids from making collages and paper maches to decorating egg cups and making fluffy Easter chicks. It’s a great holiday, and with these activities in mind you’ll be sure to have your kids entertained throughout the holidays.

Explore the boutiques of New York!

Department Stores

There’s nothing like retail therapy when it’s all under one roof. The Big Apple offers a wide selection of merchandise in the world famous department stores scattered across the city. From house-ware and accessories to cosmetics and latest fashion trends you’ve got everything. If it’s the chic and trendy clothing that you’re after at Barney’s and Bloomingdales or the super sales at Macey’s, this dynamic city has a department store for every fashonista’s style and budget. But be sure to have your walking shoes on because these department stores are monstrous!

West Village’s Meatpacking District

This neighbourhood fulfils the New York image as the ‘city that never sleeps’. Luxury retailers, cutting-edge fashion, designers, food and culture by day and exceptionally lively nightlife by night; the district is constantly buzzing. This neighbourhood has transformed into an elegant boutique-filled district allowing you to free your retail rampage with sophisticated designs, world-renowned brands and quirky little shops.

Downtown Soho

Vibe, excitement, passion for fashion and so much more, there really is nothing to compare to the energetic atmosphere of the NYC Soho shopping district. With elegant architecture, loft-like spaces and cobblestoned streets all influenced by the strong artistic vibe, shopping in Soho is an experience like no other. This versatile shopping arena boasts vintage with art on the streets and chic in trendy boutiques. Just be ready to have your expectations exceeded.

Vintage!

The East Village – Boho vibes, street markets and tattoo parlours. Every part of New York has its own persona and the hipster East Village is definitely one worth having a peek at. The permanent street markets with vintage shirts and jewellery are full of funky and affordable things. It’s a village with an edge and excitement.

Nolita – Style, glamour and elegance with a hippie- chic style; yet another shopping neighbourhood. Although Nolita and Soho are part of the vintage family, its cobbled streets of endless boutiques may be cute but they aren’t cheap; it’s vintage with a price.

New York really is a shopping haven whether you’re window shopping, therapeutically shopping or you’re just a full on shopaholic, it’s full of life and pure shopping paradise.