Feliz Natal e Próspero Ano Novo!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Prettige Kerstdagen en Gelukkig Nieuw Jaar!


Joyeux Noël et Bonne Année!


Feliz Navidad y un próspero Año Nuevo!


Buon Natale e Felice Anno Nuovo!

1º Festival de Fado de Portimão

http://www.cm-portimao.pt/portal_autarquico/portimao/v_pt-PT/pagina_inicial/noticias/NaoPer_20111209_FesFadPor.htm

Festival de Fado de Portimão

2011-12-9 a 2011-12-10Pela mão de quatro grandes artistas – Ana Moura, Carlos do Carmo, Carminho e Cuca Roseta – o fado vai sair de Lisboa e visitar Portimão. Quatro grandes artistas, quatro géneros diferentes de cantar e de sentir o Fado, em duas noites que vão ficar marcadas na memória!

O Portimão Arena vai transformar-se num bairro boémio e fadista, onde as tascas, as típicas casas de Fado e as iguarias vão andar de braço dado com uma mostra de fado vadio.A partir das 18h00 até às 02h00 (Acesso reservado a titular de bilhete para espectáculo)
As tascas de Fado dos carismáticos bairros de Lisboa:
Tasca do Chico - Bairro Alto
Tasca da Madragoa - Madragoa
Mesa de Frades - Alfama
Cervejaria Lúcio - Portimão

9 Dezembro18h00 - Abertura Tasquinhas e Fado Vadio (palco 2)
22h00 - Ana Moura e Cuca Roseta
02h00 – Encerramento das Tasquinhas
10 Dezembro18h00 - Abertura Tasquinhas e Fado Vadio (palco 2)
22h00 - Carlos do Carmo e Carminho
02h00 - Encerramento das Tasquinhas

Planta:

PACOTE Negócio30 (aquisição de 25 Bilhetes individuais – oferta de 5 bilhetes)
Pacote especial criado especialmente para empresas que queiram adquirir um bilhete para oferta a clientes ou funcionários:
Para informações e pedidos contactar: eventos@portimaourbis.pt
Bilhetes | Locais de vendaPortimão Arena – 2ª a 6ª Feira, das 09h00 às 12h30 e das 14h00 às 18h00. Dia 9 das 9h00 às 12h30 e das 14h00 às 22h00 e dia 10 das 10h00 e das 14h00 às 22h00
TEMPO – Teatro Municipal de Portimão - 3ª feira a Sábado das 14h00 às 19h00
www.blueticket.pt, Lojas FNAC, Lojas Worten, El Corte Inglés, C.C. Dolce Vita, Agência ABEP e Alvalade, Lojas Abreu Viagens, Megarede e em www.ticketline.pt
Titulares do Passaporte Sénior, Cartão Jovem Municipal e Cartão de Pessoa Portadora de Deficiência beneficiam de 10% desconto no bilhete individual para zona das Bancadas laterais (exclusivamente nas bilheteiras do Parque de Feiras e Exposições e do TEMPO).
Informações e Reservas: 1820 |             253 418 428      
Serviço de Acompanhamento a Crianças * proporciona momentos divertidos enquanto se canta o fado.O Sítio dos Fresquinhos assegura, nos dias 9 e 10 de Dezembro de 2011, entre as 21h00 e a 1h00, o serviço de entretenimento para crianças entre os 3 e os 10 anos.
Este serviço é assegurado por profissionais com experiência e disponibilizado aos espectadores na aquisição de bilhete (1 bilhete = reserva do serviço), mediante marcação prévia pelo telefone             282 410 440      . O bilhete do espectáculo deve ser apresentado no acto de entrega da criança no espaço infantil.
Local: Portimão Arena (Sala Alcalar)
*Lotação máxima 30 crianças.

Dolphin watching in the Algarve

http://www.mydestination.com/algarve/travel-articles/72554/dolphin-watching-in-the-algarve

The Algarve has long been famed for its beautiful coastline, with endless stretches of sand, red cliffs and a sparkling sea; it is often tipped as one of the best locations for a  beach holiday.

With such a stunning coastline it is no wonder boat trips and tours are a popular pastime in the area, but as an added bonus, the Algarve is home to one of earths most loved and intelligent creatures, the dolphin.

The waters in this region are populated by various whales, dolphins and porpoises at different times throughout the year. The most common species are the common dolphin (Delphinus delphis) and bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) - so these are the ones to watch out for.

Dolphins are widely recognised as social animals and their behaviour is a constant source of fascination with both biologists and dolphin fans alike. Holidaymakers will be delighted by the level of interaction from the animals as the dolphins are perfectly content swimming and diving around the boat, unfazed by people and flashing cameras.

Dolphins generally don’t get too close to the shore, so Dream Wave offer visitors to this region trips in customized RIBs, which venture out to deeper waters and get closer to the much loved species. The trips are run by an experienced crew who know all the best spots for meeting dolphins.

 Each boat has its own marine biologist on board, on hand to answer any questions you might have and to give an insight into the behaviour and key characteristics of the dolphins. This provides the ultimate experience for dolphin lovers and a great chance to learn something new.

Dolphin watching excursions depart from Albufeira marina all year round, and last from two to three hours. These outings always prove to be very popular so it is worth booking in advance to avoid being left on the shore.

As well as dolphin watching, the Algarve is able to provide the chance to get even closer to the animals, at Zoomarine. A park with a difference, Zoomarine’s biggest appeal is the presentations showing off the abilities of their dolphins, birds and sea lions, and an opportunity to swim with dolphins.

Dolphins are one of the world's most-loved animals and the chance to swim with dolphins rates highly on pretty much everyone’s wish list....  and this is exactly what Dolphin Emotions delivers. Visitors are treated to a talk about dolphins from an expert, followed by a lesson in dolphin training and communicating, a swimming session, and probably a very treasured collection of pictures and memories.

After becoming properly acquainted with the Algarve’s dolphin population be sure to keep an eye out for the rest of the region’s wildlife. Whales have been spotted on occasion and there are countless tropical birds to be seen, making the Algarve much, much more than your average beach holiday.

To find out more on the beaches, wildlife and dolphin watching on the Algarve check out MyDestination.com/Algarve

Tiago Duarte Almeida Moura e Sá

Marine Biologist,  Universidade dos Açores.
October 2011

Benefits of Walking on the Beach

http://www.discoverwalking.com/blog/benefits-of-walking-on-the-beach.php

Aside from the beautiful view of the ocean and the great people watching there are many benefits of walking on the beach. Walking in sand requires a greater effort than walking on a hard surface. Your muscles and tendons will work harder as your foot moves around.

Walking at a slower pace requires more effort than walking fast or even jogging. Walking in sand requires 2.1 to 2.7 times more energy than walking on hard surfaces. Jogging in sand uses1.6 times more energy than jogging on hard surfaces.

For most of us burning calories is one of the benefits of any exercise. One the primary benefits of walking on a beach is that you will use 20 to 50 percent more calories than you would walking at the same pace on a hard surface.

For a short stroll down the beach bare feet are fine, but if you are going to walk a longer distance then make sure you walk in shoes. Put on your favorite walking shoes or better yet your Teva sandals so you do not have to worry about getting your shoes wet. Walking too far in sand in bare feet can result in shin splints or a sore tendon in your heel.

As always, if you are walking in the heat take the normal precautions: wear a hat, take a bottle of water and don’t forget to put on your sun screen. Of course, if you get too hot you can always jump in the water to cool off.

Since we all want to protect our walking areas for future generations don’t wander into environmentally sensitive areas such as dunes.

Of course you gain the same benefits by walking in sand in any form. So you could trek across a desert but given a choice most of us would choose to walk on a beach. In fact many of us would choose to spend our time walking on beaches even if there were no health benefits.

Don’t forget that one of the many benefits of walking is that walking is relaxing so don’t forget to stop and pick up a pretty shell, look for porpoises playing in the surf, and notice the always changing colors of the water and the sky.

Tourism satisfaction survey returns top results

http://www.theportugalnews.com/cgi-bin/article.pl?id=1134-7
15th October 2011
A survey, commissioned by Turismo de Portugal from market survey company GfK Metris, has returned very positive levels of tourist satisfaction.

A total of 95 percent of the 800, tourists interviewed from Spain, the United Kingdom, Germany, France, the Netherlands, Ireland and Brazil, reported that their holiday experience had corresponded to or exceeded their expectations.

Over half of respondents reported that they were extremely satisfied, while the percentage reporting high satisfaction reached 87 percent of all tourists with a similar figure (86 percent) stating that they planned to return.

The Turismo de Portugal survey was carried out during the peak of the 2011 season and also found that 54 percent of international visitors were young couples while 47 percent were travelling in a group with friends.

The factors identified for such high levels of satisfaction were natural and cultural features such as beaches, landscapes, gastronomy and monuments with destination safety, restaurants and accommodation meeting or exceeding the expectations of over 90 percent of tourists.

Interviewed in Lisbon airports prior to their departure, tourists chose “climate, hospitality and beaches” as the words best defining the Portuguese tourism industry.

Furthermore, at a debate entitled ‘Lisbon - a competitive and innovative city,’ City Council President António Costa identified the mournful musical genre, Fado, the city’s patron saint, Santo António, and the poet, Fernando Pessoa, as the best symbols for boosting its profile.

Costa highlighted Moda Lisboa fashion week and Experimenta Design as key events on the city’s calendar, while the writer and Casa Fernando Pessoa director Inês Pedrosa suggested inviting the director Woody Allen to make a film about Lisbon.

Antes da Primeira Guerra Mundial já se jogava golfe no Algarve!

in http://blog.turismodoalgarve.pt/2011/10/golfe.html, 7/10/11

É comum referir-se o surgimento do golfe no Algarve a partir da década de sessenta. O campo de golfe da Penina, desenhado por Henry Cotton e inaugurado em 1966 é tido como o primeiro do Algarve.

No entanto, muito antes disso, antes da primeira Guerra Mundial já se jogava golfe na Praia da Rocha, onde existiu um campo de 9 buracos inserido nas margens do Arade.
Encontram-se referências a esse campo de golfe em vários textos de divulgação turística publicados em pequenos guias da primeira metade do século XX. Por outro lado, já em 1918, Tomás Cabreira, escrevia na sua obra “O Algarve económico” que “Na praia da Rocha, principal estação algarvia para o turismo, deve haver mais um campo para o jogo do golf …” fazendo pressupor a existência do primeiro.

O golfe tornou-se, como sabemos, num dos principais produtos turísticos do Algarve que regularmente vê reconhecida a qualidade dos seus campos. Na mais recente edição da revista britânica “Golf World”, o Algarve conta com cinco dos seus campos no top 100 europeu.

Portugal - The beauty of simplicity

No Dia Mundial do Turismo, celebramos o muito que Portugal tem para oferecer!

Today is the World Tourism Day! Get to know Portugal!

Vandaag is de Wereld Toerisme Dag! Wat weet u over Portugal?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m34Wv-2yjQo&feature=channel_video_title

MozART Group no Algarve

Aproveite o feriado de 5 de Outubro e venha relaxar no Algarve!
Com reserva na Cabana do Sobral de, no mínimo, 4 noites para 2 pessoas, receba 1 bilhete grátis para o espectáculo do MozART Group no dia 7 de Outubro, no Auditório Municipal de Lagoa. A apenas 10 minutos da Cabana do Sobral e sem problemas de estacionamento!


Filip, Michał, Paweł e Bolek são quatro instrumentistas formados em Academias de Música prestigiadas de Varsóvia e Łódz, na Polónia, que decidiram tocar música clássica com humor. Criaram um musical de cabaret único no mundo, onde a música (e não as palavras) é a fonte do riso e da alegria.
 Os MozART Group tocam juntos desde 1995. Começaram por apresentar pequenas piadas musicais na televisão, no Canal Plus, e em 1997 entraram na competição de novos cabarets PAKA, em Cracóvia. O primeiro programa de cabaret do grupo – o «MozARTt’s still alive» – foi também apresentado em 1997 e, desde então, o quarteto tem dado concertos por toda a Europa, pelo Canadá, EUA e pela Ásia.
Já receberam várias distinções, como o Grande Prémio do XVIII Festival de Sátira e Comédia de Lidzbark, o «Pingwin z brazu» (O Pinguim de Bronze), atribuído pela comunidade de cabaret de Zielona Gora, e, mais recentemente (2010), um prémio especial entregue pelo Ministério da Cultura da República da Polónia.
http://www.mozartgroup.org/

Why Cork Is the Most Amazing Material in the World to Keep Your Wine Tasty?

http://gizmodo.com/5837079/why-cork-is-the-most-amazing-material-in-the-world-to-keep-your-wine-tasty

There's a reason the screw cap hasn't dominated the wine stopper industry: Cork still kicks the ass of stamped aluminum for the good stuff-and not just for nostalgia's sake. This is what keeps our evening libations from turning sour.

Cork is an unbeatable bottle stopper. It's compressed by machines, jabbed by wine keys, and assaulted by liquids, only to bounce back, close up the gaps, and continue to keep leftover wine at bay.

Cork's been doing the same job well for thousands of years. Ceramics with cork tops were tucked into Egyptian tombs, and the Greeks shoved the spongy wood in containers filled with wine and olive oil. But it wasn't until Dom Pérignon-perhaps you've heard of him-developed the process for Champagne production in the 18th century that the cork stopper got its big boozy break. At the time, French sparkling wines were plugged by plain ol' wooden pegs wrapped with olive oil-soaked hemp. This setup blew. No, really. The gas in wine kept popping the slick stoppers out. Without a proper stopper, wine was losing its sparkle and the appeal of Champagne was falling flat. So as a way to seal his beverage-and ultimately his legacy—Pérignon started a series of experiments to find a better way. When he landed upon cork, it wasn't just the bubbly producers that appreciated a more perfect fitting: The entire wine industry ended up adopting it up as the stopple standard.

Cork performs extremely well under pressure. With some nudging, cork can compress to half its size, without bulging out the other side or increasing its length. Ok, so there are a lot of things that can do that if you push them hard enough, but the key here is cork's resilience. Cork's insides look like a honeycomb filled with gas-89.7 percent gas, in fact-which makes it both light and buoyant. And the cells that make up the honeycomb are insanely stretchy. So the cells can stand to be squeezed tight—like by, say, the skinny neck of a wine bottle.

But cork doesn't collapse under the abuse. Although the gas in the cells is compressed and loses volume, it is always pushing back, which allows it to seal cabernets and champagnes.

While stuck, liquid's constant lapping doesn't cause the cork to flinch. This wine stopping power is due to a coating made of a complex mixture of fatty acids and heavy organic alcohols called suberin inside the cork's cell walls. The suberin, plus tannins and a scarcity of albumenoids, leave it decay resistant and unfazed by moisture. In fact, the United Nations' Food and Agricultural Organization says that pieces of cork can stay submerged in liquid for centuries without rotting. Taken all together, these things make cork maybe the best seal in existence.

Here's another way cork gives other caps the finger: If you're keeping wine in a cellar for a long time, a little bit of air does a body good. The reason is that wine contains a little bit of sulfur dioxide. But "without oxygen, that sulfur disintegrates and creates a smell like a struck match," says Vance Rose of cork producer Amorim Cork America. You do not want to swirl that around in your cup and sniff it. Cork adds air naturally by releasing a wee bit of its stored gas, maybe 3-4 milligrams. Screw caps are either hermetically sealed, leaving bottles with a potential sulfur problem, or they've been engineered to allow a little outside air in. While that little bit of air is good for the sulfur, but not good if it's sucked from a wet cardboard or musty cellar. Cork's gas release doesn't come from the outside, so it doesn't smell.

This means that when it is time to pop the top, both wine and cork come out unscathed-the wine appropriately aged and the cork looking almost like it always did. Even after years of abuse, "the cork doesn't lose any integrity in its cell structure," explains Rose. "It goes right back to its original form." The cork has always maintained this fine form so your Malbec can, too.

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Rachel Swaby is a freelance writer living in San Francisco. Check her out on Twitter.

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Trilhos do Algarve / Trails in the Algarve

Trilhos do Algarve - um excelente site!
http://www.trilhosdoalgarve.com/index.html

A great site with suggestions for trails, hiking, trekking, birdwatching and maps in the Algarve.
http://www.trilhosdoalgarve.com/index_uk.html

Medieval Merriment in the Algarve

http://www.mydestination.com/algarve/travel-articles/72433/medieval-merriment-in-the-algarve

Nestled in the Algarve’s sunny tip of Southern Portugal, Silves has become renowned as a place of great historical significance. Beginning its life as a dwelling for a small riverside colony, this is a town that has endured many transformations over the years. Once the strong Roman city of Sibilis and then the Moorish town of Xelb, before the Christians finally took control in 1242, this culturally diverse district has a wealth of past wisdom to draw upon. And despite seismic damages during an earthquake in 1755, many of the city’s monuments have remained surprisingly intact. Everywhere from the compact cobbled streets to the craggy Silves Castle, this stunning town surveys scenery of rolling hills and the River Arade, recalling the splendors of times gone by.

Revisiting a significant time in this triumphant historical past, every August this vibrant town turns back the clocks to stage a fully-fledged festival of Medieval merriment. Aptly known as the Silves Medieval Festival, and particularly popular among locals, this is a time-travelling event where everyone plays a part. Electric lights are turned off; local merchants dress in full medieval garb and wandering minstrels pervade the streets serenading passers-by.

Remaining true to the era, visitors experience Silves as it once was, and are greeted with daily street scenes. Straw is strewn everywhere; horses, mules and camels transport valuable goods, and Templar Knights parade through the town with chivalrous prospects. Adding to the busy street bustle, beggars plead for alms while local merchants barter and trade. Even the local eateries enter into the contagious merriment, serving traditional wine and food in fired-earthenware to be enjoyed in the medieval manner-less way, without a knife and fork. The daily currency is converted from the Euro to the Xelb to complete the full effect of this time-travelling façade. 

Taking its rightful historical place, this year’s festivities are being held from the 9^th to the 15^th of August with the frivolity in full-flow from 6pm until 1am. Allowing for all ages traditional costumes are available for hire in all sizes, (adults you simply can’t escape!) And, with a warm and welcoming atmosphere, this fictitious journey back through time couldn’t be more enjoyable.

So, as they say, the proof is in the pudding, come and experience the merriment all for yourself. Just be careful not to overload on too much black pudding as it makes medieval dancing all that more difficult…..

Emily Waller, My Destination Algarve
August 2011

Património natural do Barrocal Algarvio

http://algarvecom.blogspot.com/2011/07/patrimonio-natural-do-barrocal-algarvio.html

Longe das extensas praias e das arribas abruptas, o verde garrido mistura-se com os variados tons acastanhados da terra na vasta extensão do Barrocal Algarvio, que nos dá a conhecer um outro Algarve, coberto de laranjais e de pomares de figo, alfarroba e amêndoa, sendo por isso conhecida por Beira-Serra e principal fornecedora de produtos agrícolas do Algarve.

Barrocal é uma zona de transição entre o Litoral e a Serra, constituindo léguas de paisagens de características geológicas especiais, rochas calcárias e xistosas que poderão ser apreciadas na acalmia da serra, com trilhos que poderão se desbravados na companhia de amigos e familiares.

10 good reasons to visit the Algarve

http://www.mydestination.com/algarve/travel-articles/72373/why-the-algarve

Come winter or summer the Algarve brims with activity, making it one of our favourite all-year-round holiday destinations. From the beautiful beaches to the buzzing bars and the cultural cities to the curving coastline, here’s a run-down of just the top ten reasons why we all love the Algarve so much:

1. Easy Access - As loads of low-cost airlines flying into Faro airport from a range of European cities, the Algarve is one of the most accessible destinations around. Just a short flight and you can be sunning yourself under clear blue skies….

2. Seamless Sunshine - With over 300 days of seamless sunshine per year, the Algarve’s climate is one of its biggest attractions. Rarely reaching extreme temperatures, this balmy Mediterranean clime is wonderful for sun-bathing, water-sports or simply wandering around and basking in the sunshine.

3. Beautiful Beaches - A total of 74 blue flag beaches recorded last year, the Algarve has some of the best beaches in Europe. Head to the western coast to discover the most beautiful beaches where the golden sand is soft and fine and the water is sparklingly clear.

4. Curving Coastline - With over 140 km of scenic coastline, the Algarve is a great place for exploration. Amble along a coastal trail to admire the local flora and fauna and you will see what all the fuss is about.

5. Glorious Golf - A golfer’s dream and one of the world’s premier golfing destinations, the Algarve has around 30 top-class courses, academies and clubs, all with first-rate facilities.

6. Delicious Food - The Algarve has a range of delicious gastronomy, with most international cuisines represented. Our favourite however, has to be the traditional local dishes and the fresh catch of the day. From simple tapas to sumptuous lobster, the Algarve has it all.

7. Mouth-Watering Wine - With tantalising tastings and winery tours, the Algarve grape is starting to feel the fervour, gaining international acclaim and winning awards. From hearty reds to delicate whites and rosés, the wonders of the Algarve wines await your discovery…

8. Colourful Countryside - From the white-washed villages and and luscious green rolling hills of Monchique to the rugged coastline of Costa Vicentina, the Algarve is full of colourful countryside making it the beautiful beach-side location that it is today.

9. A Carefree Ambiance - People in Europe are renowned for having a laid-back attitude but nowhere is this more true than the Algarve. With a carefree ambience and friendly people, the Algarve is one of our favourite places to soak up the chilled-out atmosphere.

10. A Continental Culture - Being in Europe, you don’t have to experience that bamboozled feeling of culture-shock so familiar to us all. With locals speaking Potuguese, English, Spanish, French and German, the Algarve warmly welcomes its international visitors.

by Fiona Butler, MyDestinationAlgarve
July 2011

8 Great Places to Travel with Kids - Guess what... The Algarve is one of them!

http://www.mydestination.com/en/travel-articles/8-great-places-to-travel-with-kids

If it weren’t for holiday’s we’d all be a pretty stressed out bunch. With a chance to get-away from it all, see something new and most of all, have some much needed ‘time-out’, we look forward to these days of open-ended freedom like Indiana-Jones to the Holy Grail. Nevertheless, if you are travelling with little ones ‘time-out’ is possibly not going to consist of endless days reclining on a beach towel… Indeed, little minds like to be kept busy so we’ve come up with 8 destinations that we think offer up enough interest to keep even the most animated of young adventurers occupied… Good luck!

Tenerife, Spain

If family fun is what you’re after, Tenerife certainly has it covered. With sunshine bathing the island in a sea of infectious happiness you don’t need to spend a fortune here to entertain your little-ones. Indeed, a bucket and spade on one of the island’s sandy beaches should keep children happy for a good few minutes while you can look on from the comfort of your lounger. Pack a picnic and make a day of it, take a beach ball, slap on the sun cream and get stuck into saving your carefully crafted masterpiece from the incoming tide… (you, at least, have an excuse for behaving like a big kid on the sand!)

If your family like watery pursuits (and you are also partial to a waterslide or two…) Siam Park, Europe’s most impressive water adventure land, is well worth a visit. Home to one of the world’s biggest wave machines and some pretty impressive (and steep!) slides, older children will love it here. Alternatively, if you are holidaying with younger children, Aqualand, has tamer slides and a dolphin show which is bound to get them smiling. Both of these attractions are in the Costa Adeje area.

If you are in Puerto de la Cruz, Loro Parque is well worth seeking out with its parrots, gorillas, tigers, penguins, flamingos, jaguars, chimpanzees and tortoises (phew!) There are also shows put on by the parrots, sea lions, orcas and dolphins to amuse and entertain included in your entrance fee. Family Tickets can be purchased that allow discounted admission to both Loro Parque and Siam Parque –well worth hunting out if you’re thinking of visiting both.

Last, but by no means least, you could always hop on a boat excursion (available in Los Cristianos and Playa de las Americas). With a range of vessels to choose from (including pirate ships!) you can be as chilled or as adventurous as you and your family dare. There’s also the option of a submarine safari, dolphin watching excursions and for the older ones - speed boat rides…

Cyprus

Another sun-kissed location where families are in their element is the Mediterranean Island of Cyprus. Again, you can’t go wrong with a beach or two and Cyprus has enough to choose from with soft sands and turquoise waters crying out for you and your family to while away the hours. If your brood are more adventurous (and slightly older!) than the average bucket-and-spade-brigade, there is also the option of water sports and diving.

Cyprus is also home to its own impressive animal attraction: Pafos Bird and Animal Park. Here you can explore the 100,000 square metres of natural landscape where over 170 bird species, rabbits, tortoises, kangaroos, deer and crocodiles call home. There are of course many more creatures that you can find here – including the baby albino wallaby born in June 2009. As well as being one of only four albino wallaby’s born in captivity he is even more amazing since his mum and dad are both brown!

As well as the animals, you can also check out the talks held in the onsite amphitheatre as well as traditional craft demonstrations in the shop. As the fourth biggest animal and bird collection in Europe it’s certainly well worth checking out if you’re in Pafos.

If underwater adventure is likely to get your family dashing for their swimsuits, Undersea Adventures in Protaras and Ayia Napa offers up an unusual way to get up-close-and-personal with the underwater world from Cyprus’s shore. Their innovative B.O.B (Breathing Observation Bubble) allows you to explore the seabed without the need for diving lessons as you ride this underwater scooter through the sea – it has to be seen to be believed! If you prefer something a little more conventional, The Yellow Submarine, (also in Ayia Napa) is a great way to see the colourful marine life from the air-conditioned comfort of their vessel. With an upper and lower deck available for visitors you can relax in the sunshine or check out the sealife… with snorkelling equipment available for those who want it…

Sydney, Australia

If you are heading to Sydney, Australia (whether you’ve got little ones in tow or not…) you’re going to want to hit the beach at some point right? Indeed, travelling to Australia and not getting some sand between your toes is akin to a trip to Paris without catching sight of the Eiffel Tower... So, with that in mind our local experts have tracked down two of their favourite beaches if you’re travelling with children, starting off with Shelley Beach. This sheltered spot of sand is located right round the corner to Manly Beach and is an ideal place for families with its sheltered beach and barbeque area. Bronte Beach is also a good choice as it has its own ocean pool with a section of gentle water for younger swimmers as well as a park next-door with a playground… and of course that all important barbeque area.

If you’re in the car, an hour’s drive from Sydney’s Central Business District you’ll get to Palm Beach where you can take a 10 minute ferry across to the Basin. This beautiful part of the world is great for families with a large lake for swimming and an array of wildlife to check out including goanna’s and a kangaroo camp. It’s also great for little ones as no cars are allowed (getting about is by foot or boat).

If wildlife is a winner for your children, Sydney Wildlife World or Featherdale Wildlife Park are top places to spend the day while the Sydney Aquarium and Manly Oceanworld should keep underwater enthusiasts satisfied for a while…

Alternatively, if it’s just the water that gets your family enthused Aqua Fun Park offers up water, fun and a plethora of activities to keep everyone amused.

You can try and ware your brood out with a trip to Sydney Olympic Park where you can hire bikes and follow 'The Amazing Chase' trail, hang out in one of the many playgrounds, take a Stadium Tour, play a round of mini-golf, visit the Monster Skate Park or swim in the wake of Ian Thorpe at the Aquatic Centre. There are also bike, self-guided, Segway and Olympic Games-themed tours, outdoor films in the summer and plenty of places to picnic or grab a meal.

Finally, if you feel you want to have fun and see the sights, a trip on the Ferris Wheel at Luna Park is recommended – the views of the Harbour, The Harbour Bridge and The Opera House are just amazing…

Mallorca, Spain

With beaches featuring highly on any youngsters list of holiday-essentials, Mallorca's beaches have a lot to shout about. While Magaluf might be the place to head if you are looking for a foam party, Alcúdia is the place to go for long, sandy, gently shelving beaches. Coupled with the clear waters of the Mediterranean, lifeguards and plethora of beachfront activities to hand, this is child heaven in a bucket.

As well as a gorgeous, palm lined beach, children can also make the most of the island's theme parks - including the extraordinary upside down House of Katmandu, the world class Palma Aquarium and the ever-popular Marineland. For a bit more excitement older children can explore the many caves on the island or if mum and dad are feeling flash, there’s always a hot air balloon ride to consider…

Spanish culture is extremely family friendly with restaurants and hotels in Mallorca both very welcoming to children and their needs. Hotels also offer up special children’s menus, activities and even in some cases kids clubs. And if you happen to be around during a local fiesta you’ll notice that they open their doors to locals and holiday makers of all ages…

Croatia

Croatia is another sun-kissed haven of holiday heaven where children can make the most of the temperate climate and sunbathed summers along its sparkling coastline. Mild wind, warm sun and low rain level are just some of the main arguments why children would adore this country. Known for its rugged shores, children are best supervised at all times where snorkelling, rock pooling, swimming and searching for fish are top past-times. Korcula or Vis islands are ideal for this kind of thing – keeping children amused for hours.

Sandy beaches are however, available if you know where to look. There is a beautiful sandy beach on island Rab called Paradise Beach that is popular with little ones. You will need to take a ferry to get there – but this adds to the adventure!

Croatia also offers up numerous other family friendly activities including entertainment programs, trampolines, slides, playgrounds, ice cream bars, water activities and a zoo. Zagreb Zoo, located in the pretty Maksimir Park is home to a range of exotic animals, birds, reptiles, fish and mammals. Visitors can also take in the various educational programmes on offer - a chance to learn more about many of these magnificent creatures.

Another option for the family is a boat tour around some of the many picturesque islands along Croatia’s coastline. There’s nothing quite like sailing on the sparkling sea as you get the best view in the house of Croatia’s spectacular coastline – and when it comes to lunch time nothing works up an appetite like a quick dip from the boat. And if you and your family really take to life on the sea you can even hire out a yacht for a few days to learn how to sail – a great holiday adventure for your little ones.

The Algarve, Portugal

When it comes to child-friendly holiday locations, the Algarve is a destination that couldn’t be better suited to parents and their little ones. With a wide array of family-friendly attractions, long, sandy beaches and a warm welcome from the locals, those travelling with youngsters shouldn’t find it hard to have a good time.

First up, the beaches here in the Algarve have a lot to offer those with children as the soft sands and gently sloping coastlines make it easier for parents to keep tabs on their offspring. It also means that having a paddle and making sandcastles is top of the menu – don’t forget those towels…

Waterparks are another firm favourite for families and Slide and Splash comes highly recommended. With a range of slides and a good reputation for cleanliness and supervision it’s a good spot to soak up the sun, slides and fun of Portugal’s Algarve with the family.

Alternatively, there’s always Zoomarine, where you can watch dolphin and sealion shows - as well as swim with dolphins at Dolphin Emotions. This once-in-a-lifetime opportunity gives you an educational talk followed by around 30 minutes of swimming time with these amazing creatures – where you can also learn a couple of tricks. Definitely, one to think about if you want to treat someone (or yourself!) to something special.

Finally, for the chance to have some swashbuckling fun, children will love the chance to ride a pirate ship (and dress up!) as costumes are provided for those who want to get into the spirit of things. Dream Wave offer up the option of a 6 hour barbeque cruise or a 3 hour coastal cruise where you can see the coastline, have a swim and on the former, eat lunch on a secluded beach. Children and adults alike will enjoy the chance to sit back and soak up the atmosphere - and if you’re lucky you may even spot a dolphin…

Garden Route, South Africa

Port Elizabeth in South Africa’s Eastern Cape comes recommended by our local expert who believes the relaxed vibe and friendly atmosphere are ideal for those travelling with children. The great beaches – three of which have been awarded blue flag status – are ideal for hanging out and you can opt between long and sandy or rugged and dotted with rock pools. You can also look out for the watersports if you have older children. Alternatively, stay at the Willows Holiday Resort and as well as the gorgeous sandy beaches and range of accommodation options you can also get involved in their water sports or, during the summer months, let the children join in with the organised activities (tennis, paintballing, putt putt) while you chill out and relax for a bit.

Animals are a hit with all ages and in South Africa you’ve got some amazing wildlife on your doorstep begging to be spotted. Kragga Kamma Game Park has a fantastic array of African game and birds for you to see, with the option to drive through the park in your own car, join a guided tour in a 4X4 or stay the night in one of the chalets, log cabins or thatched cottages. With the chance to share your breakfast spot with the neighbouring giraffes, this is truly an experience not to be missed – whether you’re young, or just young at heart… Addo Elephant National Park is another treat, where you’ll be able to spot, amongst others, the African elephant. Home to over 450 elephants, a safari here will definitely warrant taking your camera…

Finally, if you fancy venturing away from Port Elizabeth but still want to soak up some wildlife and adventure, the Garden Route Port Elizabeth to Crags Tour is perfect. After breakfast you’ll go to Monkeyland then onto the Birds of Eden Tour before heading over to the elephant sanctuary. You’ll then end the tour in Plettenburg Bay. With so much included you and your family will get a good overview of the area as well as some of the amazing creatures that call this part of the world home…

Malta

Last, but certainly not least, if you are holidaying in the Mediterranean and are looking for a family-friendly island paradise, Malta is a good option. As well as being ideal for couples, it’s also great for those with children as many accommodation options and good restaurants like The Avenue cater well for younger visitors. Again, beaches are a top choice for anyone on holiday, and anyone holidaying with those possessing a curious mind – and with so many rugged inlets and coves to explore little explorers will be in their element. Again, you will have to keep your eyes out as long, sandy beaches aren’t aplenty in Malta, however, rocky outcrops offer so much more for young adventurers that you’ll soon be brandishing that fishing net and bucket…

Aside from the many gardens to play in there are also activities like the Popeye Village Fun Park to offer up interest and excitement. As the original set of the 1980 musical ‘Popeye’ this area has now been turned into a family fun park where you can enjoy the rides, take in the animation, get stuck into the water trampolines and beach lido in the summer or soak up the festive atmosphere come Christmas. Malta’s Playmobile Factory is another treat for the little ones while Jokers Family Fun and LWS Animal Park should leave you with enough options to ensure you have a holiday to remember.

Kirsty Brown, MyDestination
June 2011