Cardiff bay Wetlands, a hidden gem in the Welsh Capital

05/11/2024

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Cardiff Bay Wetlands


One of our favourite places to visit during the summer, but also the colder months, is Cardiff Bay Wetlands, a short walk from the vibrant bay area of the Welsh capital. 

It's easy to miss and many people who live in the city don't even know it's there but it's well worth seeking out as it's a lovely quiet and tranquil place to explore and soak in beautiful views across the bay and people off all ages can enjoy it. 

The wetlands are completely free to explore and cover 8 hectares of former salt marsh and are now a biodiversity hotspot within the capital and is now home to a variety of birds, fish, animals and supports a rich diversity of plants and other wildlife. We regularly spot swans, moorhens, coots and ducks on our visits along with fish and damselflies.


Cardiff Bay


The great thing is birds and wildlife can be seen here all year round including common Reed Buntings, Reed Warblers and Sedge Warblers which use the habitat to build their nests during the spring and summer while autumn and winter sees visitors like Teal and European Stonechat. 

The easiest way to access the reserve is through the carpark next to St Davids Hotel, which brings you out on to a wide gravel walkway which is suitable for buggies and wheelchairs. There is also an impressive boardwalk which extends out over the water, offering amazing views across the Barrage and the perfect spot for some bird watching. 

Kids can also enjoy doing the Wetlands Wildlife Explorer trail, you can download the map here and just remember to bring some crayons with you to create some lovely rubbings. 

The Bay can be a very busy place but you feel like a world away at the Wetlands and it's a great spot to spend a relaxed hour taking a stroll or letting the kids run out some of their energy while enjoying the natural surroundings and I recommend a visit if you are in the area. 


Cardiff Bay Wetlands Reserve
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Hidden Gems in LA: Off-the-Beaten-Path Destinations You Need to Visit

01/11/2024

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Los Angeles



Los Angeles has a reputation for its big-name attractions—Hollywood, Santa Monica, and Venice Beach, to name a few. But if you scratch the surface, you'll find some of LA's best-kept secrets waiting to be explored. Whether you're a local or visiting, these unique spots will show you a different side of the city. Let's dive in!

1. The Old LA Zoo at Griffith Park

Did you know LA has an abandoned zoo hidden in Griffith Park? The Old LA Zoo, which closed in the 1960s, still has its old animal enclosures, cages, and structures scattered around. Walking through the graffiti-covered ruins feels like you're exploring an old movie set, but it's a relic of LA's past. It's a great place for an adventurous day out.

Travel Tip: Bring supplies for a picnic, find a quiet spot nearby, and enjoy the park's peaceful vibe. It's also a fantastic spot for photos and urban exploration.


2. Sunken City, San Pedro

Sunken City in San Pedro is a real hidden treasure. It was once a neighbourhood that slid into the ocean after a landslide in the 1920s. The broken streets tilted foundations, and vibrant graffiti give it an almost surreal, artistic vibe. Technically, it's off-limits, but people still come to check it out and enjoy the views of the Pacific.

Travel Tip: While hopping the fence and exploring is tempting, be cautious as the area is unstable. If you prefer to stay safe, nearby Point Fermin Park offers similar stunning ocean views without the risks.


Sunken City
Sunken City



3. The Last Bookstore

The Last Bookstore is more than just a place to buy books—it's a quirky, artistic wonderland. You'll find a labyrinth of books, book tunnels, and cozy reading corners. Plus, there's an art gallery upstairs filled with oddities and unique pieces. It's an excellent spot for bookworms and anyone who loves a creative, offbeat atmosphere.

Travel Tip: Spend some time wandering through the entire space. There are hidden gems around every corner, and the whimsical vibe makes it perfect for some Instagram-worthy shots.


The last bookstore
The Last Bookstore is an Instagram worth stop



4. Escape Rooms in Los Angeles


There are a lot of escape rooms in Los Angeles that offer more than just puzzles—they're immersive adventures with detailed sets and compelling stories. Whether you're into thrilling mysteries or magical worlds, LA has plenty to offer. Here are a few standout options:

60out Escape Rooms: Offers themed experiences like "Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle," "Godzilla vs. Kong," and the upcoming room "Titanic," with intricate designs and a real sense of adventure.

Maze Rooms: Known for their puzzle-heavy challenges, like "The Pharaoh's Curse," these rooms are perfect for those who love cracking codes.

Escape Hotel Hollywood: Offers theatrical, horror-inspired rooms such as "Zombie" and "Witchcraft," delivering an atmospheric and spooky experience.

Travel Tip: Escape rooms get booked quickly, especially on weekends, so make sure to reserve in advance. Also, team up with friends or family—working together makes the experience even more enjoyable.


Escape rooms




5. Greystone Mansion & Park

Located in Beverly Hills, Greystone Mansion is a historic estate with lush gardens and stunning views of the city. Even better, it's free to explore! Stroll through the grounds, admire the architecture, or relax in this quiet spot away from LA's hustle and bustle. Fun fact: Greystone Mansion has been the backdrop for many movies and TV shows so that you might recognize it!

Travel Tip: Check if there are any special events or performances happening when you visit. The estate often hosts fun cultural events that add an extra layer to your visit.


6. Heritage Square Museum


Step back in time at the Heritage Square Museum, a collection of beautifully restored Victorian homes from the 19th century. Each house tells a different story, giving you a glimpse into LA's past. It's like walking through a mini-history lesson but way more interesting than you'd expect.

Travel Tip: The guided tours are full of interesting tidbits, and the volunteers are great storytellers. If you're into history, try to visit during one of their themed events, like the "Mourning Tour," where they explore Victorian funeral customs.


Hertiage Square Museum
Heritage Square Museum, image from Wikipedia



7. Museum of Jurassic Technology

For something truly unique, check out the Museum of Jurassic Technology. It's hard to describe exactly what it is—part museum, part art installation, part curiosity cabinet. The exhibits blend fact and fiction, giving you a strange, fascinating experience that leaves you wondering what's real and what's not.

Personal Insight: The museum feels like stepping into another dimension. It's thought-provoking, weird, and wonderful. Unlike any other museum you'll visit in LA, I could easily spend hours there.

Travel Tip: Take your time with it. Some of the exhibits are so bizarre that you need time to fully soak them in. Bring a friend for lively discussions about what you've just seen!


Museum of Jurassic Technology
Museum of Jurassic Technology, image from Wikipedia 



8. Eaton Canyon Falls

Looking for a peaceful escape from the city? Eaton Canyon offers an easy, scenic hike that ends at a beautiful waterfall. Located in the San Gabriel Mountains, it's not too far from downtown LA but feels like a world away. The trail is surrounded by nature, and the waterfall at the end makes it well worth the trek.

Travel Tip: Arrive early to avoid the crowds, especially on weekends. Don't forget your water and sturdy shoes—while the hike is fairly easy, parts of the trail can get rocky.


Eaton Canyon Falls
Eaton Canyon Falls, image from wikipedia




Uncover the Unexpected: LA’s Hidden Treasures Await

Los Angeles is full of surprises. Beyond the famous tourist spots, these hidden gems give you a fun and different way to explore the city. Whether you're solving puzzles in an escape room, wandering through an abandoned zoo, or checking out unusual exhibits in a quirky museum, these lesser-known spots offer unique experiences that go beyond the typical LA visit.

So next time you're in LA, skip the stars on Hollywood Boulevard and try something a little different—you won't regret it!
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Gardening with garlic

28/10/2024

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gardening



I love gardening, it's a natural mood booster and a hugely rewarding activity. I only have a small garden but every year I plant veggies and herbs to eat and make the most of the small space, I love being out in the fresh air and connecting with nature. Gardening has been a learning process of what does and doesn't work, of trial and error. Last year I had a bounty of onions and garlic so thought I would share five fascinating facts about garlic in the garden.


Plant Garlic for a Spring/Summer Harvest

In terms of timing, autumn planting garlic for the spring/summertime is best. It is important to plant your garlic before the ground freezes so that cloves can establish roots and then go dormant over the winter months, resulting in bigger, more flavourful bulbs in the spring/summer. Garlic is also an easy crop that requires minimal maintenance over the cold period.


Extend Your Growing Season

Winter gardening allows you to extend your growing season with cold-hardy plants. Along with garlic, you can grow spinach, kale, and winter lettuce in cold frames or greenhouses, which can give you fresh produce even when it is cold outside. It is worth learning about companion planning, which involves pairing plants close together for mutual benefit - this could involve flowers near crops to attract pollinating insects. There are various combinations that can work well together during the colder months.



Improve Soil Health

In addition to being a delicious ingredient, garlic can be an excellent crop for soil health. This is because it has a deep root system that breaks up compacted soil, allowing for better drainage. Additionally, it has natural pest-repellent properties, which can deter soil pests and benefit the garden eco-system. Here are a few other natural pest repellents for your garden.



gardening




Combat Winter Blues

Many people struggle with their mental health during the winter months, which is understandable. Gardening can be an excellent way to combat your winter blues as it encourages time in nature, which is proven to be beneficial for physical and mental health. Additionally, it is an active hobby and one that can be highly rewarding. Getting outside and tending to garlic and other winter-hardy plants provides a sense of accomplishment and a connection to nature, even in colder weather.


People often spend a lot more time inside during the winter months, which can lead to cabin fever. Gardening allows you to spend more time outdoors (even just in the garden), which can make a huge difference to your well-being.


As you can see, garlic is a great plant to grow in your garden at this time of the year. Not only is this one of the tastiest and most commonly used ingredients in many dishes, but it is also a plant that can be rewarding to grow and could even improve the health of your garden as well as give you a mental health boost during the colder months of the year.


Garlic




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5 family friendly ski resorts for all budgets

27/10/2024

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child snowboarding


I love to snowboard & have been lucky to snowboard at some fantastic resorts such as Val d'Isère and Kitzbühel, but besides a few dry slope sessions here and there, I haven't gone since having kids. While hitting the slopes is great for any age, even when they are toddlers, I felt they would benefit from being a little older to get the most out of it as it's not something I would be able to budget for regularly. 

But now that both boys are older I am looking more seriously into a snowboarding trip at some point and thought I would share 5 resorts perfect for families in different budgets that are great ski and snowboard destinations for families in mind. 


1. Poiana-Brasov, Romania

While Romania may not be well known for its slopes it may come as a welcome surprise to find out that they offer fantastic mountain resorts at one of the most budget-friendly prices in Europe. Poiana Brasov is the largest resort with more than 24km of ski runs with blue, red and black, meaning all abilities can enjoy, all in stunning fairytale location. 

If you fancy a day away from the slopes you can go to the medieval city of Brasov and Dracula's castle for a unique family travel experience. 

A week ski lift pass will come in at around £120 per adult, with cheaper rates for children. 


Poiana-Brasov
Beautiful Poiana-Brasov


2.  Bardonecchia, Italy

Despite this resort being in Italy, it comes up as a very budget-friendly option for families and it's easy to get to from the UK. Bardonecchia is one of the lesser-known resorts but that makes this somewhat of a gem as it's a great place to avoid crowds and there is lots to do in and around the resort. 

There are lots of runs for all different abilities as well as an alpine coaster which kids love and why not give snowshoe walking a go? 

A 7 day ski pass is roughly £176 for an adult and £70 for a child. 


Bardonecchia, Italy
Bardonecchia, Italy


3. Bansko, Bulgaria

Bulgaria has slowly grown in popularity as a budget-friendly destination with excellent slopes. Bansko is the largest ski area in the country and has a great mix of runs as well as a dedicated kids ski area. There are also plenty of cheap food options and lots to do on the resort and off to keep families entertained. 

A 6 day ski lift pass costs around £234 for adults and £91 for kids


Bansko, Bulgaria
The slopes of Bansko



4. Vogel, Slovenia

This modern ski resort is great for families and in a really beautiful area overlooking Lake Bohinj in the Triglav National Park. This resort is suitable for both beginners and experienced skiers and with 22km of slopes, Vogel is one of the largest in Slovenia. 

A 5 day ski lift pass is £163 for adults and £81


5. Verbier, Switzerland

While Verbier may be on the pricier side it's well worth it when you have access to one of Europes largest and most sought-after ski destinations which truly offers something for everyone. It boasts more than 80 lifts and over 400km of world class runs and best of all is beginners and intermediate skiers can access 80% of those runs and the added bonus of truly picturesque views and snow-capped mountains. You can also easily transfer from Geneva to Verbier,  making an easy city to fly into or explore for the day. 

6 day ski lift passes for adults start at £356


Verbier, Switzerland


I've shared more tips on what you need to pack for a family skiing in this post.  If you or your kids haven't skied or snowboarded before then I would strongly encourage that you do a few lessons in the UK before you go, that way. you can get the most out of your time on the real slopes. The UK has lots of dry slope options, while not the same as real snow, you can get a grasp of the basics. We also have 4 indoor slopes in the UK with man-made snow and is the closest you can get to real skiing. It's always better to spend a weekend at one of the indoor or dry slopes getting to grips with the basics and heading to Europe feeling a little more prepared. 

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