Enjoying the Art and Culture of Cornwall

Known to many as a seaside holiday destination, the majority of those renting holiday cottages in Cornwall every year have little idea of the amazing cultural and artistic heritage that surrounds it. Here, we shed some light on the county’s more high-brow cultural movements.

Tate St Ives

St Ives has always been a thriving artistic community, and, according to a documentary presented on BBC4, has produced “some of the most exhilarating art of the 20th century.” They went on to say, “For a few dazzling years this place was as famous as Paris, as exciting as New York and infinitely more progressive than London.”

This prolific period is largely focused in the 1920s, when painters and potters flocked to St Ives to produce their work. However, St Ives still has a vibrant artistic scene, and, in 1993, the famous Tate Gallery opened a museum branch in the seaside town, nestled amongst the many holiday cottages. In Cornwall, art is seen as intrinsic to preserving its unique cultural values and heritage, and St Ives is the best place for a first stop.

Barbara Hepworth Museum & Sculpture Garden

The Tate St. Ives also is home to the Barbara Hepworth Museum & Sculpture Garden, a truly unmissable exhibition detailing the work of the famous abstract sculptors of the 20th century. Hepworth was known for her huge projects and use of geometric shapes. Since her death, in 1973, her studio has remained untouched, and she has become a leading influence in genre of sculpture. However, you don’t need to visit her garden to get a glimpse of Hepworth’s work: her sculptures are dotted around St. Ives.

The Poly

The Royal Cornwall Polytechnic Society aims to promote innovation in the arts and sciences, and is one of the county’s most influential creative hubs. The Poly has an inspiringly inclusive approach to artists, adopting both contemporary and classic styles of photography, painting, theatre, dance and spoken word poetry. Those visiting holiday cottages in Cornwall should be sure to keep up with the Poly’s summer calendar, which is usually full of community events and youth theatre groups.

The Newlyn Art Gallery

Focusing on modern work, the Newlyn Art Gallery celebrates and encourages the development of 20th century painting in Britain. The focus in Newlyn is on painting and drawing, but in 2007 it opened up the contemporary art space The Exchange, to facilitate live performances, film screenings and community events; the venue is often frequented by visitors staying in holiday cottages in Cornwall. Creative kids will love the Newlyn’s youth activities, including the Pen Project – a story-telling exercise inviting children to explore the mind of an artist – and the Saturday Art Club.

Katie Chown is a Property Consultant for Classic Cottages. We have a selection of spectacular holiday cottages in Cornwall as well as cottages in Devon, Somerset and Dorset. Whether you’re looking for a stunning rural retreat or a luxury cottage on the coast, we have the perfect holiday home for you to fall in love with.

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The Secret History of Cornwall

Cornwall is filled with hidden histories and secret treasures, unknown to the average tourist. The often mysterious and casually eccentric county has local customs, enchanting folklore and an ancient language that still lives on in daily life.

Perhaps one of the most unique features of the Cornish countryside is the abundance of lasting medieval remains that adorn the terrain, providing the perfect backdrop to any holiday. Cottages in Cornwall are often closely modelled on this medieval style, meaning any visitor won’t find it hard to feel connected to Cornish history.

Lostwithiel

Known as one of the county’s secret treasures, this medieval town is a huge focus of Cornish history. Founded by Norman lords, the enigmatic name ‘Lostwithiel’ is most likely derived from the Cornish, ‘Lostgwydeyel’, meaning ‘the place at the tail end of the forest’. With such fairytale origins, it’s little wonder that Lostwithiel is such a popular site to visit for those staying in nearby holiday cottages. In Cornwall, Lostwithiel is also known as the ‘Fairest of the Small Cities’ and was known by the 13th century Earl of Cornwall as his ‘Lily of the Valley’. Although famous for its breathtaking scenery, Lostwithiel has its own tragic history, having been victim to many sieges in the 17th century after being caught in the crossfire of the English Civil War.

The Luxulyan Valley

Nestled in the south-east of the county, the Luxuylan Valley began as a hill fort over 2,000 years ago and been in a constant state of change ever since. Luxuylan Valley was designated a World Heritage Site in 2006, due to its major concentration of industrial remains. The Luxulyan Valley was home to one of the largest copper mines in Britain, and, at its peak, was aided by seventeen water wheels and six steam engines. Many historic sites populate the area and its heritage centre is a popular -not to mention free – destination among those staying in holiday cottages in Cornwall.

Truro

An important centre for trade in the Victorian era, Truro is still known as one of the most vibrant Cornish cities, filled with eager tourists staying in the local holiday cottages. In Cornwall, ‘Truro’ refers to the Cornish word for ‘possible’. Local historians take this to mean that Truro was a place where one would seek their fortune. Truro’s most recognisable feature is its cathedral, which is often referred to as “the finest example of Georgian architecture west of Bath.”

Penzance

This beautiful West Cornish town translates to “holy headland” in Cornish, but also has strong ties to a pre-religious world. Ancient stone circles from the Neolithic period are still visible in the countryside, and, of course, the town is famously the inspiration for the Gilbert and Sullivan musical The Pirates of Penzance.

Katie Chown is a Property Consultant for Classic Cottages. We have a selection of spectacular holiday cottages in Cornwall as well as cottages in Devon, Somerset and Dorset. Whether you’re looking for a stunning rural retreat or a luxury cottage on the coast, we have the perfect holiday home for you to fall in love with.

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Self Catering in Westleton

Westleton is a lovely little village in the south of Suffolk, near the picturesque market town of Yoxford and close to the town of Saxmundham. Suffolk is a county in the region know as East Anglia and this region is famous for the bird life that is attracted to the area by the heaths and waterways of the Norfolk Broads and the Suffolk fens.

There is a fine range of accommodation available for visitors to the area and many do use this accommodation when visiting Minsmere but now there is a unique property that offers self catering in Westleton and the advantage of this establishment is that it is so close to the RSPB Minsmere Reserve.

The annex at Moorside Lodge also offers high quality B&B accommodation on a daily basis for those passing through or spending a few days in the area and has gained a very good reputation for quality and cleanliness but now it also offers self catering accommodation for those wishing to spend more time at the RSPB Minsmere reserve or for those spending a holiday exploring this wonderful area of Suffolk.

The Annex at Moorside lodge is available for renting on a weekly basis for those requiring self catering in Westleton. The property at Moorside Lodge can also be hired on a shorter basis if availability permits and also as a self contained B&B unit for those seeking greater privacy of those working in the area and require access at all times. It has been furnished to a very high quality and is a separate annex to the main house. It has its own parking and drive, and is adjacent to the owner’s house. Directly opposite the property is the Westleton Heath National Nature Reserve, the finest example of Suffolk moorland that remains. The Heath is full of rare fauna and flora, including many migrating birds. Red deer can be seen at dawn and dusk.

There has been a very real need for a property that offers high quality self catering in Westleton and Moorside Lodge has created a facility that satisfies this requirement. We have no hesitation in recommending this high quality property for your holiday in Suffolk or for your extended visit to the RSPB Minsmere reserve. As a holiday destination, this part of Suffolk has so much to recommend it and there is so much to see and do, that you will want to come back again and again.

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Auvergne Festivals – 12 Wonderful Festivals In Auvergne

Auvergne is famous for its Romanesque churches and architecture as well as its delectable cuisines, cheeses, fine tasting and sparkling wines. Apart from its interesting historical remains, Auvergne is also popular for its winter sports resorts and mountain spas that have attracted a great volume of tourists from all over the globe.

There are lots of magnificent festivals that suit every fine taste held across the region of Auvergne which are surged by lots of tourists. From short film festivals to art, history and music festivals, Auvergne has definitely lots to offer all year round. Make your holiday in France a worthwhile and remarkable experience by bringing your presence to the colourful and stunning festivals in Auvergne.

1. Clermont-Ferrand International Short Film Festival, 1st to 9th February 2013

This festival is highly regarded in the world of short films., and 2013 is the 35th year it is running. It incorporates a marketplace where collectors can pick up rarities and find short films that straddle all the genre types.

This famous festival attracts over 100,000 visitors every year. It is a perfect venue to watch short films but also enjoy delving into the shorts of previous years, on one of the thirty five video terminals.

It is a big networking scene for those involved in the industry, and it is packed full of stalls, events and a large exhibition.

2. Limoges Carnival, Esplanade Champ-du-Juillet, 3rd March 2013

Carnivals are wonderful and this one in particular has quite a reputation and attracts International performers, so you may see Brazilian dancers and musicians and other fun and talented International acts. The Limoges Carnival has been running since 1989 on the first Sunday of March.

It is organised along a route of 3 kilometres, and the procession is expected to attract around 75,000 people. It culminates in the drowning of the Carnival King.

Around 1200 people are involved in providing the entertainment, with on average 10 top bands who are invited from other areas of France as well as other parts of Europe.

3. Videoformes, Clermont-Ferrand, 20th to 23rd March 2013

Celebrate video, International art video and many cultural and digital feasts at the Videoformes Festival in Clermont Ferrand. This has been running in springtime every year since 1986. You can join debates, conferences and discuss projects and ideas. There are also compeitions running for children. For those involved, it is a meeting of minds and brainstorming platform.

The festivals runs as above, however the exhibition runs from 21st March until 7th April.

4. Festival Des Buveurs D’Eau, Vic Sur Cere, 20th to 21st April 2013

This is a water festival which aims to educate people on an eco-lifestyle on one hand, but whilst having lots of fun on the other hand. It dates back to 1896 although it wasn’t active for a long time until 2011 when it was revived.

Families can enjoy water fun, picnics, artisans work, family workshops and animations.

5. Festival International Cinema et Costume Moulins – International Cinema and Costume Festival, June 2013, awaiting dates

A wonderful celebration of the importance of costume in film, covering both period and contemporary films. Costume is so central to film as we assess the characters on screen quickly and costume is an essential medium to communicate messages to us, the viewers.

Held in Allier, Moulins, this stunning festival takes place in June each year and screens around 20 films which were carefully picked for the beauty and exquisiteness of the costumes.

6. Les Europennes du Goucirct, Aurillac, early July (6, 7 & 8th in 2012)

This is perhaps one of the most popular and well attended festivals in this region of France. It is a 3-day cultural and gastronomic festival which is celebrated through a combination of live music, tasting, workshops, round table discussions, demonstrations and entertainment. This festival, which takes in Aurillac (Cantal) in July every year, features around 100 exhibitors.

In 2012 it especially celebrated beef, and in 2011 pork. There are short courses during the festival and bountiful local produces such as cheese, wines, spices, baked goods, as well as local products of other European participants.

7. Festival Country Rendez-Vous, Craponne-sur-Arzon, 26th to 28th July 2013

If you love country music, then this is the place for you this July. It features some top performers from Nashville and Austin United States, and for country music fans, you can enjoy a great diversity of music and performers, which will be played in a natural amphitheatre. Watch out for new talent as well!

8. Festival Musique Sur un Plateau, Brivadois, late July (22nd to 29th July 2012)

This is the festival for art history and music lovers. Every July, the Brivadois region, which is next to la Brioude is highlighted by a series of outstanding classical performances and concerts.

The festival promotes the history of the area, classical music and art, and the connection between them.

9. Festival du Monastier, La Vicairie, early August (3rd to 11th August 2012)

2013 is the 25th edition of this brass music festival. Enjoy an eclectic mix of music that surprisingly enough uses brass instruments! From jazz to baroque, from world music to traditional French songs.

10. Fecirctes Renaissance – Roi de l’Oiseau, 3rd weekend September (12th to 16th September 2012)

This is a colourful Renaissance festival which is held at Le Puy-en-Velay (Haute-Loire) every September, on the third weekend. The event is highlighted by the impressive re-enactment of the archery competition which took place sometime in the 16th century.

Running since 1986, this is cultural event marrying fun, beauty and expression. Join the crowd as the town celebrates the festival through demonstrations, shows and concerts for five days.

11. Francophonies in Limousin, 11 Avenue du Geacuteneral-de-Gaulle, 25th Sept.-5th Oct. 2013

Check out the creme-de-la-creme of International French theatre. The term Francophonie encompasses worldwide French speaking cultures.

Running since 1984, this festival marks its 30th birthday in 2013. The 2012 festival had an attendance of over 15,500, with a wealth of performances, debates, meetings and exhibitions.

12. Fecircte de la Chataigne (Chestnut Festival), Mourjou, October

Mourjou (Cantal) is a village with a huge population of 360 at last count, but every year in October it lets 20,000 or so visitors enjoy the Chestnut Festival. Participate in eating and drinking copious amounts of chestnuts and cider. In fact the norm is that there is 5000 litres of cider and 2 tons of chestnuts.

This fair began in 1990 when some of the younger inhabitants decided that it was time to revive the chestnut, which had experienced quite a decline since the modernisation of agriculture.

Enjoy lots of fun, other local delicacies, story telling, street music, technical demonstrations, games for the children, wine tasting and lots more.

What about other festivals in France? This site is adding on festivals organised by each region. Just click on festivals in France. Caravan Insurance Gurus also has lots of other features which will help your travel ideas and plans.

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Holiday Packing Tips for Family Vacations

The holidays are the time of the year when families travel to bond, share quality time, and build beautiful memories together. All year long, parents are busy at work and kids are busy with school. Some families go out of town or sometimes even out of the country. Before leaving, everyone has to be sure that they pack all the right things.

There are a lot of worries that come to people when they go on a trip. Perhaps the most common constraint that families experience is carrying huge suitcases that weigh a ton. The obvious solution is to pack light. This however seems like an impossible task, considering the number of outfits and gear that is needed to do all those activities. So, the question is: how can one pack lightly for a holiday vacation?

Here are some sensible tips for holiday packing that are worth considering.

Know where you’re going

Most of the time, families who live in the warm climates want to spend the holidays in winter countries where they can enjoy many kinds of winter sports and activities. If your family is about to go on a winter trip, this means that you need to bring thick jackets to keep you warm, additional clothing that you can layer, and some gear to enjoy winter sports. This will likely take the bulk of the luggage. However, one good way to lessen the load is by renting the gear instead of bringing it with.

Make sure that the place you are going to has the gear you need to do all the activities you want. In most cases, they will.

Plan your everyday outfits

Put together your outfits for each day while packing. If you are planning to stay there for a long period of time, then perhaps you can wash some of the clothes and reuse. This is going to help you lessen the amount of clothing you need to bring. Stick to a color scheme that you can mix and match along with your footwear and accessories. It is always good to plan ahead the activities too so that you can bring the right clothes for each activity. Make sure that you have something casual, sporty and a semi-formal outfit.

Prioritize

Everyone wants to look their best, but that doesn’t mean that you need to wear a lot of accessories. Prioritize the things that are going to be needed the most and think twice about everything else. Bring versatile clothing that can worn on a variety of occasions.

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Top Ideas for Summer Days Out in Devon

Every year, families staying in holiday cottages in Devon find themselves spoilt for choice with fun activities to satisfy children, teenagers and grown-ups. With England’s temperamental weather conditions and crowded summer beaches, it can be difficult to co-ordinate a British holiday for everyone to enjoy – but in this beautiful county, you’re in luck. Here we highlight some of the best family days out for Devon holidaymakers.

Watermouth Castle

As one of the oldest theme parks in England, Watermouth Castle has a fascinating history. Founded in 1925 by Arthur Davie Bassett, the castle was eventually inherited by Walter Basset, an engineer who constructed giant Ferris wheels all over Europe. This may have been the inspiration for the amusement centre it is today, as Watermouth boasts a range of attractions from merry-go-rounds to giant mazes. You can also enjoy a live water show, dungeon labyrinths and the mysterious ‘Gnome Land’. Watermouth Castle is in Barnstaple, which has access to a large number of self-catering holiday cottages in Devon.

Paignton Zoo

Paignton Zoo houses more animals than you’re legally allowed to shake a stick at – including lions, lemurs and llamas. The Paignton is cleverly divided into six sections, according to which animal you fancy seeing. Whether you’re hunting down terrapins in the Tropics or a capybara in the Savannah, consider yourself on safari while you’re at the Paignton Zoo.

If you’re thinking about summer holiday cottages in Devon, 2013 will be a particularly wild one for Paignton Zoo, as they partake in the Great Gorillas Project. For 10 weeks, the streets will be littered with beautifully painted, one-of-a-kind gorilla statues showcasing the local art of the area.

East Axnoller Farm

Nestled in the Dorset Hills, the East Axnoller Farm is one of England’s best donkey sanctuaries, and is the headquarters for the official Donkey Sanctuary organisation. The Donkey Sanctuary organisation works to alleviate the abuse and neglect of donkeys worldwide, but also hosts a number of brilliant days out for families staying in holiday cottages in Devon. This includes opportunities for children to ride and take care of the donkeys, and a chance to sponsor a donkey of their very own.

Quaywest Waterpark

Located in Paignton, the Quaywest Waterpark features eight different flumes – from the serene Surf Lagoon to the exhilarating Kamikaze. Equipped with restaurants, cafes and pubs, the Quaywest Waterpark is an ideal adventure to satisfy both parents and children on holiday. Cottages in Devon dot the Paignton area, many within easy access of this international standard waterpark.

Katie Chown is a Property Consultant for Classic Cottages. We have a selection of spectacular holiday cottages in Devon as well as cottages in Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset. Whether you’re looking for a stunning rural retreat or a luxury cottage on the coast, we have the perfect holiday home for you to fall in love with.

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Details Of The NYC Marathon

The New York City Marathon is an annual marathon that courses by way of the 5 boroughs of New York City. It is without doubt one of the largest marathons within the world. Together with the Boston Marathon and Chicago Marathon, it is among the pre-eminent long-distance annual operating events in the United States and is likely one of the World Marathon Majors.

The race is organized by New York Street Runners and has been run yearly since 1970. In recent times, it has been sponsored by the financial group ING. It’s held on the primary Sunday of November and attracts skilled competitors and amateurs from everywhere in the world.

Due to the recognition of the race, participation is chosen largely by a lottery system. Runners who’re members of NYRR can achieve entry by meeting the qualifications for assured entry or via nomination from an official working club.

It begins on Staten Island near the method to the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge. The bridge, which usually carries only vehicular traffic, is closed for the event. Runners use either side of the higher stage of the bridge and the westbound facet of the decrease level. Within the opening minutes of the race, the bridge is filled with runners, making a dramatic spectacle that is carefully associated with the event.

After descending the bridge, the course winds through Brooklyn for approximately the next eleven miles. Runners cross through a variety of neighborhoods, including: Bay Ridge, Sundown Park, Park Slope, Bedford-Stuyvesant, Williamsburg, and Greenpoint. Runners cross the Pulaski Bridge, marking the midway level of the race and the doorway into Long Island City, Queens.

After about and a half miles in Queens, runners cross the East River on the Queensboro Bridge into Manhattan. It is at this point in the race when many runners start to tire, because the climb up the bridge is considered one of the crucial troublesome points within the marathon.

Reaching Manhattan, the race proceeds north on First Avenue, then crosses briefly into The Bronx by way of the Willis Avenue Bridge for a mile earlier than returning to Manhattan through the Madison Avenue Bridge. It then proceeds south by means of Harlem down Fifth Avenue and into Central Park.

At the southern end of the park, the race proceeds throughout Central Park South, the place 1000′s of spectators cheer runners on over the past mile. At Columbus Circle, the race re-enters the park and finishes outside Tavern on the Green.

The official instances are these recorded by a pc chip worn on the shoe, which calculates when a runner crosses the beginning and when she crosses the finish, often known as “web”, as opposed to “gun”, time. Runners also cross timing mats at 5 km intervals alongside the course and e-mail notifications could be acquired by people following runners during the race to see how the runners are doing.

As well as, while the space is the same, there are completely different programs taken via Bay Ridge and up Fourth Avenue in Brooklyn until the course reaches Lafayette Avenue in Brooklyn at Mile 8.

Although the marathon publicity material makes use of miles, the timing mats are at 5 km intervals to accommodate the publishing of splits and in addition enabling potential world data for 20 km, 30 km and other sub-marathon distances to be recorded.

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Everything Disney

Whether you have recently took a vacation to one of the Disney resorts or planning to take your family to this wonderful and exciting place you should be prepared with everything Disney. You may even consider purchasing these items for an upcoming birthday party or other fun activity in which the participants are children.

You can buy a wide variety of items to complete any Disney outfit such as the Minnie Mouse red sequin shoes that any little girl would love to have. If she prefers pink you can choose the Minnie Mouse pink slippers or adorable sandals. To match the lovely Disney shoes you may choose to buy her a Minnie Mouse costume which can also be purchased in red or pink. This also makes a great choice for a Halloween costume or costume party.

For those little girls who like hair accessories will love the bows and headbands that will help to complete any outfit. The headbands have ears and a cute pink and white polka dot bow that will help to pull the entire costume together.

All of these Disney items are very affordable and can help to make your child’s birthday perfect. For those that have recently visited one of the resorts will love being reminded of all of the special memories that they had. You can find Disney hair bows to fit girls of all ages so whether you have a toddler or a teenager you can find something cute for them all.

Aside from the Disney costumes you can also find various dresses to choose from. There are many different styles which will be the perfect addition for your little girl’s closet. You can buy tiny dresses and a lovely one piece for your infant or dresses which offer many different styles to choose from. Dress sizes offered range from infant to preteen giving you the variety that you need.

You can also find a wide range of Disney toys online to choose from including the various Minnie Mouse dolls, Minnie Mouse dress up magnetic activity set, Mickey Mouse sets, cars, pillows, Mickey Mouse dolls and much more. For those little boys in your life there are various outfits such as pajamas and short outfits that will be great for those warm spring days.

Whether you are buying for a little girl or boy there are also many practical but fun Disney gifts available like the book bags, totes and even umbrellas. You can choose from many different styles and colors to choose from making this the perfect gift for a child of any age. The prices vary from one item to another which allows you to easily find the perfect gift while keeping your budget intact.

Giving your child the best Disney party has never been easier. In addition to gifts you can find various party accessories including balloons, Disney party games, party supplies and more. You child will be thrilled with the outcome of their party and the best thing for you is the smile that it will leave on all of the faces of those who are attending. Being able to buy everything that you need ranging from gifts to party supplies all from the same place saves you time and money which can be better spent on more important things. If you are ready to find everything Disney start shopping today!

All of these products give you the perfect choice for any holiday Disney gift or just because gift and fits in a budget that almost anyone can afford.

Childhood comes and goes very fast, before we know it, our kids are grown up and the magic has gone, hold onto these magical years, and enjoy every minute of it, you can build memories that will last for years to come.

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Plan a Longer Stay Vacation on Oahu, Hawaii

So you’ve been to Hawaii before but wish you could have stayed a little longer before heading back to winter. You’re not alone in thinking how great another extra few weeks in paradise would be. In this article we’re going to tell you how to make that dream a reality and what to do while you’re there if you’re on a budget. Find out where to stay, how to save money and the best places to visit and explore.

The best way to save money on your next vacation is by going for a 30 day stay. You need to look online for a safe and clean hotel alternative. We’re talking about a furnished apartment that offers short term monthly rates. You can also try Craigslist but just be sure that whomever you decide to go with is reputable before sending them any money. Concentrate your search around the Ala Wai Canal area and you should be able to find a furnished monthly apartment rental for a lot less than half of what it would cost to stay at a modest hotel and you will still be within walking distance of Waikiki.

Your furnished apartment will not supply everything you need for your thirty day stay so be sure to ask what’s not included and make sure it has air conditioning. You will probably need to bring some bed sheets, pillows, cups, dishes, cutlery, pots and pans, etc. Whatever you forget to bring can easily be purchased from the local Walmart or other stores that are conveniently located nearby. Instead of dining out everyday you can save money by stocking up your fridge and using your apartment’s kitchenette. Lower prices for fruits and vegetables can be found in the Chinatown area of downtown Honolulu. After you set up your new apartment get an inexpensive monthly bus pass and you’re ready to explore the island.

Grab a map of the island and create a 30 day activity plan for your vacation. Here’s a short list of the must-see things to see and do if you haven’t done these before: Go to Hanauma Bay to swim with the fish in crystal clear water. Visit the under-rated Honolulu Zoo as well as the always entertaining Sea Life Park and the ever popular Polynesian Cultural Center. Climb Diamond Head with its amazing views, visit the USS Arizona memorial at Pearl Harbor and attend a traditional Hawaiian Luau. Sunset dinner cruises are popular as is deep sea fishing, whale watching, snorkeling and water sports of all kinds. You will definitely be spending days soaking up the sights and sun on Waikiki beach but be sure to go to the Ala Moana Beach Park across from the Ala Moana Shopping Center. It’s less crowded and has some nice beach areas that are great for a picnic. It’s hard not to enjoy every day in Hawaii.

There are many beautiful beach stops on the way to the North Shore and interesting points of interest around the island so jump off the bus and explore the ones you like. Visit Makapuu Beach which is located across the street from Sea Life Park. Travel 20 minutes past Makapuu Beach and you’ll arrive at Waimanalo Beach with its 4-mile stretch of sugary white sand, calm waters and lack of tourists. Waimanalo Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches and possibly the best beach on Oahu. You’ll want to spend the day here and grab a bite to eat at Keneke’s Plate Lunch & BBQ where the food is great and the prices are ridiculously affordable. Other recommended beaches include Kailua Beach and Lanikai Beach in Kailua. You’ll want to try the always super fresh shrimp at Fumi’s Kahuku Shrimp Farm on the North Shore. No vacation to Hawaii is complete without visiting Sunset Beach and Waimea Bay which are two of the best North Shore beaches.

There are many reasons for choosing Oahu for your next vacation. Great weather and a seemingly endless number of beaches set in a tropical paradise make it the ideal choice for anyone looking to get away from the cold. You’ll want to return every year to soak up the sun and enjoy everything Oahu has to offer. Make sure you include visiting the other Hawaiian Islands on future vacations. Hawaii has a lot to offer so find your place in the sun and start packing.

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