Category: International Travel

Relax, Renew, Revitalize at the Ginger Tree

Relax, Renew, Revitalize at the Ginger Tree

Ginger Tree offers holistic health and beauty
Ginger Tree Clinic

The Ginger Tree sits amidst the most beautiful, serene area in England. The Yorkshire Dales.  Ginger Tree is a short 1.5-mile drive from Richmond. It attracts visitors and locals from across the area. Peaceful, quiet, secluded, it prompts relaxation.

Aske Stables

Ginger Tree is located in an impressive Victorian building. Originally built as the horse stable for a nearby mansion. Walking in the stone paved courtyard, you expect the clatter of hooves.

Aske Stables renovated into a business park with all the amenities and a gorgeous view
Aske Stables now a business park with amazing views

Renovations took place in the late 1990s. They retained the gorgeous stone exterior. Insides were redone to meet modern needs. State of the art, eco-friendly Ascot Stables opened in 2000. Now over two dozen companies call it home.

A place to escape

Ginger Tree owner, Kathy, selected Ascot Stables for the tranquil setting. She loves the relaxing gardens and ample parking.

Aske Entry and Courtyard diverse businesses get to enjoy this amazing architecture every day
Aske Entry and Courtyard stunning and serene and ample parking.  It has great proximity to local towns.  It was a winning decision and her clients love it.

Kathy is an escapee of London’s hectic pace. She brought her extensive training and skills to the peace of the Dales.

Pamper yourself with a massage, facial or body treatment. Stay groomed with natural nail care. Enlist her as your makeup artist for your special event. She even helps with hair. Here you will find what you need.

Kathy is a strong believer in natural and organic. Products must be at least

Ginger Tree Treatment Room for holistic beauty
Ginger Tree Treatment Room

70% natural and organic ingredients.  To treat the unique needs of each client she maintains diversity.

  • Environ  – physician developed therapeutic skin care for dramatic improvement.
  • Pink Boutique –  handcrafted organic aromatherapy.
  • Neal’s Yard -organic skin care.
  • Jane Iredale Mineral Makeup.
  • SpaRitual – eco-friendly vegan nail care.
  • Advanced Nutrition Program – supplements for beauty from the inside out.

Customized therapies encourage you to relax, renew, rejuvenate.

Wellness Center

Ginger Tree reception area with original fireplace now used as decor
Ginger Tree Reception with original fireplace

Her vision has been for a total wellness center. In September 2016 this came to fruition. The Ginger Tree facility expanded.

It now includes:

  • homeopathy
  • Yoga
  • pilates
  • reiki
  • reflexology.

Locals are lucky to have such a well thought out holistic center nearby.  It is the trend of the future, today!

US & UK food terms you need to know

US and UK food terms

Well, we do all speak English, but UK food terms are a little different. My husband has newly emigrated from England. Our conversations have included many of these confusing terms.

Whichever side of the “pond” you live on, here are some food terms you want to know. They will help you get what you were hoping for when you place that food request.

UK Food terms:

Food term order chips in the UK when you want fries
Food term order Chips you’ll get fries

French fries – ask for chips

Potato chips– ask for crisps

Biscuits – are scones or cookies

In the UK crisps are the food term you use to get potato chips
Food term Crisps gets you potato chips

Biscuits and gravy – strictly a US phenomena. However, they do serve gravy with fries or on potatoes.

Mushy peas are not sweet peas.  They are a dried marrowfat pea cooked like a dried bean.

Pudding is not the American blend of milk, sugar and a thickener.  In England, pudding can be sweet or savory. Most commonly, it refers to a desert course, but it can also be part of the main course.

Desert puddings are fatty starch or dairy based. They include rice pudding, steamed cake puddings, or with dry fruits added, Christmas pudding.

Savory dishes include Yorkshire pudding, black pudding, suet pudding,

Food term Yorkshire Puddings are a savory bread prepared in a special way
Food term: Yorkshire Puddings

and steak and kidney pudding.  In northern England, the traditional Sunday dinner includes roast, vegetables, potatoes, and Yorkshire pudding.

If you are truly craving an American pudding for desert, try this. Ask for a custard (egg-based), blancmange (starch based), or jelly (gelatin base). The names come from the type of base.

US and UK Breakfast terms

Breakfast in the UK is traditionally served between 7 – 9 AM.  You will find this still common in many hotels, inns or guesthouses.  While most British no longer have a “full English breakfast” regularly, you will find it in public lodging.

An English or Full English breakfast includes eggs, bacon, sausage, fried bread or toast, baked beans, tomatoes and sauteed mushrooms.  Some include black pudding, (meat, fat, and oats).  You will also find a selection of cereals and fruit or fruit juices available along with coffee or tea.

Food term Full English Breakfast was designed to last a worker all day
Full English Breakfast is a food term for a meal designed to last all day

While I saw breakfast puddings on almost every menu… most guests omitted them.

The good news is most hosts are happy to let you pick what you’d like on your plate. It’s a good way to keep control of your diet.

Like the traditional American Breakfast, Full English kept a worker fueled up.  If you want to maintain your weight on holiday, control your plate.

US and UK meal terms

In the US, lunch is traditionally the mid-day meal. Supper or dinner is the evening meal. Dinner is usually a little more formal and sometimes later. But both terms are interchanged.

Dinner is generally the largest meal of the day on both sides of the Atlantic.  Agricultural workers, commonly had dinner at noon They needed the bigger meal to last the day.  Sunday dinner is any time in the afternoon.

In the UK the mid-day meal is dinner.  Probably historically, this is based on the same reasons as in the US where the term is used.  If the dinner (noon) meal was light, people got hungry before a 7:30 evening meal.  The habit of having a bite to eat along with tea became common and afternoon tea got its name.  There are several varieties of tea.

Tea terms

If you visit any tea shop or bakery shop in the UK, you can enjoy a cup of tea along with perhaps soup, cakes or other pastries.

Cream tea has nothing to do with cream in the tea. It is afternoon tea

Food term Clotted cream and scone is creamy decadance
Food term: Clotted cream and scone

served with a freshly made scone, fresh fruit preserves, and clotted cream.  Clotted cream is nothing like the name sounds.  No lumps here.  Smooth, velvety richness. A cross between butter and ice cream. It uses whole milk like butter. The milk is cooked at a low proofing temperature until the cream sets. Not low calorie, but divine decadence.

  • High tea can be a more formal affair that offers tea, champagne, finger
Afternoon tea is one food term for tea with something to eat
Food term: Afternoon tea

sandwiches and bite size desserts. Avoid asking for high tea at 2 PM. It labels you as a tourist. Wait until 3 or be safe and check the menu for options.

Tea also refers to a lighter earlier evening meal served between 5 – 6:30 PM.  In the old days when the workers did not get afternoon breaks, they were starving by the time they got home. So they would have cheese, meat pies, scones and more.

They call a later evening meal at home supper. A more formal or dining out evening meal is dinner.

George and Dragon Inn 17th century coaching inn and great place to stay in the Yorkshire Dales

George and Dragon Inn

George and Dragon is a 17th Century coaching inn
George and Dragon Inn & Black Sheep Pub

The George and Dragon Inn is a 17th-century coaching inn located in the picturesque Yorkshire Dales National Park, UK.

After nearly a 24 hour  5000+ mile journey, it welcomed me for a much-needed rest. You never know what to expect when stepping inside a historic pub, but the George and Dragon is a fabulous find.

Visiting here is a visit of history. Narrow country roads make you slow down and enjoy the views. And the views are spectacular.

George and Dragon Inn, Aysgarth

Situated on the edge of quaint Aysgarth village, the George and Dragon

Rich dark woods dominate the pub at the George and Dragon Inn
Pub at George and Dragon Inn

has been greeting travelers for over 300 years.  Called a coaching inn, it was a place the carriages stopped to give weary travelers a break. Friendly, casual, welcoming.  When you step inside you step back in history. Rich dark woods, brass, vintage decor in a classic Dales pub style. Eclectic collections adorn the walls. Fun.  Step back in time and slow down.

Friendly, comfy, delightful

The manager and staff were excellent hosts. Upstairs, the generous queen

Your room at the George and Dragon Inn offers lovely views of the Yorkshire Dales.
View of the Dales from a room at George and Dragon Inn

bed was super comfy. The building may be old, but the amenities are modern. Complete with wi-fi. All rooms are en-suite!

The food in the Black Sheep Pub was delightful. From classics like fish and chips or meat pies to gourmet pub food, choices are diverse.  Don’t forget to try a local brew.

Guests are also treated to great breakfast options. Start with the cereal bar then pick your customized hot breakfast from a part or full English and more.

There is a car park on the hotel property.  If you are campers, there is a camping area nearby.  Hikers were stopping past the pub for a brew on their way back home.

It’s a central location for exploring the area.

Wensleydale cheese factory, Cover River

Bolton Castle is an easy drive from the George and Dragon Inn
Bolton Castle viewed from across the Dales

Bolton Castle, Aysgarth Falls.  Lots of spectacular scenery. Great hiking.  Shopping.  If the landscape looks familiar it’s been in the movies. Both Robin Hood Prince of Thieves and All Creatures Great and Small were set here.  Nearby, you can find the building that still bears the Harriott name.

Not sure what to see?  Just ask, they will be happy to make recommendations based on your interests.

Thanks much for a great visit!! We look forward to returning.  For the very best prices, contact the inn directly and ask about specials.  http://www.georgeanddragonaysgarth.co.uk/home

Explore the Yorkshire Dales enchanting in any season

 Yorkshire Dales

Rolling Yorkshire Dales offer a magical wellness escape
View across Yorkshire Dales

The locals call it “God’s country”. The Yorkshire Dales is unique and enchanting. Remove the cars, you’d swear you are transported back 150 years or more.

Life in stone cottages, Manor houses or castles. It’s a countryside as remote and secluded as it comes in England. The landscape is crisscrossed with stone fences that have stood for hundreds of years.

From the Vale of York to the top of the Pennines

The Yorkshire Dales National Park is in the ancient county of Yorkshire. The Dales stretch across the steep glacially rounded Pennines, that form the backbone of England. Sprawling across 680 square miles, the park was created in 1954 to conserve its beauty for the future.

Giant domes loom above green valleys and sparkling rivers. Soft peaks and sharp slopes. Dry stone walls, limestone scars, and lofty craigs. Lush pastures, heather moorlands. Among the mountains are dozens of interconnected valleys (dales). Their individual personalities blossom amidst the harmony of this National Park.

Lodging

Stone-built villages dot the landscape.  No hotel chains here. Building

Yorkshire dales fields are crisscrossed with stone fences and farms
Yorkshire Dales is dotted with stone farms

codes are enforced to maintain the history.Inns, small hotels and bed and breakfasts are the norm. There are also places to camp or park caravans (recreational vehicles).

Inns, small hotels and Bed and Breakfast homes are the norm. There are also places to camp or park caravans (recreational vehicles).

Your inn may be from the 17th, 18th or 19th century,  but you will find all the modern facilities within.  While there are some exceptions, most rooms are en-suite. Do expect steep stairs and sometimes a low ceiling.

Friendliness abounds. A warm greeting and a fabulous stay. Most properties include full breakfast. Inns and hotels also serve meals throughout the day.

Explore the Yorkshire Dales

Roads are narrow, the pace is slower. Whether you chose to drive, walk or

Bolton Castle is an easy drive from the George and Dragon Inn
Bolton Castle viewed from across the Dales

cycle there are paths for you.  Be aware this is farming country. Watch for agricultural vehicles – and animals. This is where they live and work.

For hikers and cyclists, you have lots of choices.  Choose a day trip from your inn. Or elect to follow one of the circular tours.  These tours will take you from one inn to the next. There you will find a comfortable bed and good hot foot to welcome you at the end of the day.

Whether you choose a leisurely meander or something more challenging options abound. Books and maps will help you pick your route. Check the tourist information sites if you want to plan in advance. The Three Peaks tour is popular with the more adventurous.

Stone bridges cross every stream or river.  They were designed for horse-drawn carriages. Approach these with courtesy as they handle one car or truck at a time. In other parts of the world, they might have replaced and modernized to meet the demands of the auto.  The Dales is about protecting and history.  Enjoy, photograph, savor.

So what’s to see beyond the spectacular landscape? Rushing rivers, waterfalls, stone walls crisscross every field, sheep, hay, cattle. Visit castles, gardens, museums and stately homes. Wensleydale Cheese Factory, artisan candle makers, brewery tours, shops of all manner.

Small friendly places where the locals go.  Lots of great tea rooms, pubs, and foods of all sorts.  Don’t miss a farmer’s market where the locals go to visit, buy and sell. How about a ride on one of the railway routes that connect the many towns?  Choices are many, scenic and nostalgic including steam powered trains.

Enjoy Yorkshire Dales History

This is James Herriot Country. Herriot is the world’s most famous vet.  He brought the beauty of the Yorkshire Dales and the lives of the locals to life for readers all over the world. Although he created a fictitious setting, the places where he lived and worked are strongly featured. For a feel of his home visit Hawes, Richmond, Leyburn, Middleham, Swaledale, and Wensleydale. This is the area the BBC used for the filming of the popular TV series “All Creatures Great and Small.”

If you are a classical novels buff the place may feel familiar. Charlotte Bronte lived and worked here. Charlotte’s childhood and experiences as a governess were her inspiration. Moors, manors, highlands. Jane Eyre and many other works live in the Yorkshire Dales.

Regardless of the season, the place is pure magic.  Choose to see it during peak summer season or visit in the winter when you feel you have it to yourself.  Want a cozy getaway spot? Try Middleham.  A castle in your backyard, pubs across the square. Choose an inn or a private “to let.” Every morning the race horses clop their way up the cobblestone market square and up onto the hills for their workout.

Plan ahead for the summer as the locals flock to the area for holiday. Some of the attractions don’t run year around so it’s good to investigate. Regardless of when you go, you will be greeted warmly and served great hot food often near a cozy fireplace.  Locals think it is the best place for great beer.

Travel Packing Secrets make your life easier and your suitcase lighter

planning your wardrobe is a great packing secret
Secret 1 plan your wardrobe for maximum mix and match

Travel Packing Secrets

There are definitely some ways to make packing for your next trip less stressful. These travel packing secrets will make your life easier and your suitcase lighter. Not to worry, you will have everything you need.

Casual touring

  • Define the activities you will be doing on your trip that take different clothes:
    • in transit clothes
    • casual touring
    • dinner out
    • swimwear
    • lingerie
    • undies
    • sleepwear
    • footwear
  • Plan for mix and match.  I love color, but for travel, it’s easier if you plan around a basic neutral, like black. Toss in a colored shirt or two for fun.
  • Pick fabrics that travel well and are comfortable to travel in.  Like denim? You might want to consider some with a dash of spandex, way more comfy to sit long hours on a plane.
  • Rule of thumb.  Every top must go with at least 3 bottoms and vice versa. It will save you trips to a laundromat and waste time sitting there instead of vacationing.

Business Travel

Have a business event to attend?  Use the same rules. Select outfits that make use of core pieces but can be put together for different looks.

  • Select shoes for comfort and that are multi-purpose.  Some people like to travel in work-out shoes so they don’t take up space in their suitcase.  Other people prefer slip-on shoes that are easier to get on and off in security.    Some people need 6 pairs of shoes for 4 days, others can get bywith 2 pairs for 2 weeks – dressy casual and walking.

    Packing smart

    A sturdy wheeled suitcase is a great packing secret
    Travel packing secret 2 Make sure your suitcase has wheels
  • Think about fitting it all into a 24″ expandable suitcase.  Make sure it has wheels.
  • Think about using packing tools.  Something like ebags packing cubes.  After living out of a messy suitcase for 19 days, I was ready for less mess. Then I stumbled across this website: www.ebags.com.  They had mesh topped zippered packing cubes. Have only used them once but wow, what a difference in packing and how your clothes arrive

When you get there, you can just put the cubes in your drawers. Bam!

Packing tools is my favorite travel packing secret
Travel packing secret 3 packing bags keep clothes tidy and organized.

You’re unpacked.

Or if you are living out of the suitcase, consider packing outfits in a bag. Grab one and you’re ready to go. Everything from the top and bottom to what goes underneath.

  • Traveling with toiletries can get cumbersome.  Take the smallest sizes you can find.  (Giant hairspray cans take up a lot of room.) Ask your stylist for a suggestion of one that works for your hair and meets the 2 oz travel requirements.  If checking a bag, you can avoid the lines at the Security Check Point by putting toiletries in the checked bag.

    gusseted quart carryons give you more space for your travel packing
    Travel packing secret 4 Clear Quart Carry-on
  • Concerned about missing a flight and an overnight without them? Then you want your minimal needs with you.  To give yourself more room, look for an approved gusseted plastic zip bag to put toiletries in. You can get more in the same size quart container with this type of bag.  With its approved emblems right on the outside, there are no questions.

Travel wraps and incidentals

  • What do you need for a wrap?  Remember airplanes can be cool so layering can keep you comfy. Going where it’s cold? Carry the jacket with you, or put it in an outside pocket of your checked bag. This will assure it is easily accessible when you get your luggage.
  • Don’t forget incidentals. What will the weather be?  Chance of showers or bad weather? Make sure your outerwear and shoes will hold up to what you may encounter.

Pack light, pack well, travel light, save your back and go have fun.

7 Tips to enhance your visit to a spa

tip 1 Use those resort amenities to enhance your spa visit
Take advantage of resort amenities is a key tip to spa visiting

7 Tips for Your Spa Visit

There are different ways to visit spas. Here are some tips to help you enjoy it to the maximum.

You can go in for a service. You can spend the day. Many hotels have spa’s on-site. This may mean you can spend the day at the spa, then wearing the lovely robe they provide, wander back to your room to freshen up.

Tip #1: Check out what facilities the spa or day spa has that you will be

Tip for your spa visit, know what amenities are available to you
Relaxation room with cedar spa in background

able to use. While we think of water and showers associated with spas, not all facilities have them. Some are only available to the person who is spending the day as opposed to a single service. You need to know this.

Tip #2: What are you going to be doing after your spa appointment? Plan your visit around this. You will most likely have no makeup and messy hair when you finish. Some treatments include a scalp massage and you may have residual oil in your hair. It’s well worth the disarray. But, if you have social plans either make sure they have a place you can restore yourself, or take a hat. I strongly recommend a hat! It’s a great travel accessory.

Tip #3: All spas should be collecting at least basic medical and skin history information about you. They need to know about any sensitivities that you have. If you tend to have sensitive skin, select non-aggressive treatments. Go for soothing and calming. They need to know what medications you are on, any implants you may have, or if you’ve had Botox or line fillers.

Tip #4: Speak up. Your therapist wants you to have the best possible

Another tip is locating where you can freshen up after the treatment.
Finding a facial room with en-suite shower is a great spa tip

experience. Let them know if you are uncomfortable, hot, cold, the pressure is too much or if a product is uncomfortable. Don’t just endure. They want you to be happy, but they can’t read your mind.

Tip #5: Wet floors can be slippery. Use the slippers they have provided you.

Tip #6: Some shower systems can be a mystery. If you can’t figure out how to turn their’s off and on, don’t hesitate to ask. Every time I travel, I run into one I’ve never seen before.

Tip #7: Be a good spa guest. All spas want this to be a relaxing experience. Turn OFF your PHONE. No phones are allowed in a spa. Guests who don’t follow the rules may be asked to leave. Relax, enjoy your visit, disconnect from the world outside.

Restore Yourself on Amorgos a Magical Greek Island

Restore Yourself on Amorgos – a Magical Greek Island

Experience stillness and harmony amid the mind-blowing scenery of the

Restore yourself at the Gem of the Aegean, on the island of Amorogos
Restore yourself at Aegialis hotel and spa Amorgos

Aegean.  Welcome to the Greek Islands.  On Amorgos, you’ll find a welcoming Five-Star Resort. Aegialis Hotel and Spa encompasses all of the hospitality Greece is known for. Here they focuses on wellness, nature and personal restoration.

The islands are connected to mainland Greece by a ferry system.  A leisurely cruise allows you to enjoy views of the islands, dinner and a glorious sunset. Only a few minutes ride from the ferry dock you will be warmly welcomed by Aegialis staff.  

You will awaken to a stunning view of the Aegean sea and islands beyond. Honeymooners, couples, and families all rank Aegialis a place to enjoy and come again.

Time to relax and restore…

Aegialis on Amorgos is an exquisite place to restor
Enjoy sunset at Aegialis a place to restore

Relax on your balcony or by the pool. Pause and take inspiration from the hypnotic blue waters. Let them lull you to tranquility.

Hike, enjoy the vistas, the quaint towns. Make the climb to the monastery. Take a donkey ride, enjoy yoga classes. You may find one of the owners teaching cooking classes. Go for a swim, sail,  snorkel, or scuba.

Learn about the unique ecosystem and the plants that survive on dew. Take the botanical tour to learn about Amorgian herbs known for their quality and medicinal properties.

Ask your hosts about special adventures, extended off-season stays or personal wellness options. Join the locals for their weekly musical gathering in the classical Greek style. Learn a dance, enjoy the music.

For centuries Amorgos has been known for its healing and transformative energy.  Visit the monastery be sure for a glimpse into the life of the past. While there, ask to see the place of the ancient waters.

Dining

Ambrosia restaurant offers choices.  Comfortable inside dining or an outside terrace with vistas of the sea be a backdrop for your dining experience. They will delight your palate with delicious traditional Amorgian dishes as well as International ones.

Fresh and locally sourced ingredients abound. The chef specializes in traditional Greek foods. He incorporates recipes from owner’s grandparents. In 2016 Alpha Guide listed them as one of the best restaurants in Greece.

Spa

Lalon Idor Spa takes its’ name from the story of the ancient water oracle dedicated to god Apollo. Here visitors came seeking clarity and answers in prophetic water readings.  

Today you will find peace of mind in a nurturing and peaceful atmosphere. Tranquility and well-being are easy to attain.

Let their therapists work their magic.  Their nurturing hands will guide you to a state of stillness and rest. Let the voice of the sea soothe your mind away from your daily routine.

The treatment menu offers a generous selection of Spa Journies. They combine Eastern and Western healing arts with classical spa treatments. They will invigorate you and help you unwind. You’ll leave feeling refreshed and restored.

Go, play, restore

Choose active or quiet, adventure or pampered. The sheer beauty and magic of this place is balm to your soul.  Go, play, restore.

Aegialis Hotel and Spa is waiting for you.  Contact them directly for the very best rates. Want to save?  Ask about off-season specials.  http://amorgos-aegialis.com/

Useful Tidbits you may not know about Scotland

Tidbits About Scotland…..

Want to visit the land of your heritage? Just love Scotland? Here are some

Eileen Donan Castle is one of the most photographed in Scotland
Eileen Donan Castle

tidbits you might enjoy.

Scottish History

The Neolithic settlement of Skara Brae is the oldest in Britain. It’s the oldest building, located on Orkney Island dates to 3100 BC. Orkney is one of about 790 islands in Scotland located to the far north of the country.

Roman invasions marked the beginning of modern history. Unable to defeat the locals, they finally withdrew and settled for building the Antoine wall to keep them in out of England.

The Gaelic kingdom of Dál Riata was founded in the 6th Century. In the next century, an Irish missionary founded a monastery and introduced Celtic Christianity to the pagan Scoti and Picts.

Places to visit in Scotland

Like tall places? Visit Ben Nevis, the highest point at 4406 feet. The ancient Scottish mountains have been glacially sculpted. You’ll feel like you are in an alien landscape, majestic and stark.

Narrow road leading to ferry landing to take you from Skye to the mainland
Narrow Scottish road on the Isle of Skye looking to the mainland

Prefer fishing? You’ll find more than 600 square miles of freshwater lakes. The deepest is Loch Morar at 1077 feet. Legends still exist of giant sea monsters lurking in the deep lochs.

Don’t miss the distilleries making Scottish whisky. Whisky is synonymous with Scotland. It’s who they are. Currently, there are 98 active distilleries. They employ over 10,000 people and account for 85% of the Scottish food and beverage exports.
Did you know? Scotland didn’t invent whisky. It was invented in China. The Irish monks started distilling it in the 1400s and it reached Scotland about 100 years later.

Scotland is home to the oldest tree in Europe. You can discover the twisted yew in Fortingall where it has grown for 3000 years.

Over 2000 castles were built in Scotland. Many now are only historical documents or ruins. Others remain in private ownership. Historic Scotland cares for over 300 properties including 65 castles. These are open to the public.  Be sure to take a raincoat or umbrella as it rains frequently in Scotland.

Be sure to take a raincoat or umbrella when touring here as it rains frequently.

Where to live

Most of Scotland’s 5.2 million people live in the lower 30% of the country. They account for 8.5% of the total UK population.

What’s in the upper 70%? Glacially sculpted mountains and valleys, hardy farmers, lots of heather and sheep.

Did you know?

Keep meeting Americans with Scottish ancestry? Not surprising. There are as many Scottish people in America as in Scotland with about 5 million claiming Scottish ancestry.

You’ll hear not one but three official languages spoken. English, Scottish and Scottish Gaelic.

Kilts, tartans, and bagpipes are an integral part of Scottish culture. But history notes evidence of them in Central Europe dating to the Bronze Age. Bagpipes may have come from ancient central Asia.

 

Is Britain on Your Bucket List?

A view of Bolton Castle, Yorkshire Dales Park, Britain
Yorkshire Dales Park in northern Britain

Your Britain Adventure

Is traveling internationally on your bucket list?  Don’t let the dream slip away. International travel is life-changing. It’s an adventure. Faraway places, new cultures, different accents, not to mention the food. You’ll experience broadened horizons, great memories. Britain is a great place to start.

The first wagon train crossed the US heading west in 1841.  That’s 175 years ago. No original wood structures are still standing.  In Britain 175 years of age is nothing for a building. You can stay in a castle built in the 11th century, or an inn built in the 1700s. Look and you will find evidence of people living there for over 2000 years.

Stonehenge is the most famous of the standing stones. Other standing stones are much older. Some date back to the Neolithic age and you can walk freely among them with no fences or restriction. Hidden gems you can seek out. They will inspire you.

Travel now!

Right now, it’s a great time to visit Britain.  The rate of exchange from dollars to pounds is the best ever. British pounds have always been worth more against any other currency. Right now instead of being near $2.00 to 1£, it has been hovering around the $1.33 range.  That means your dollar goes a lot farther.

Two other benefits?  They speak English.  And more Americans have British ancestry than any other group. You can trace your roots; walk the soil of your ancestors. Or, just enjoy the people and places.

How to get around Britain…

A little planning will help your trip be a success and memory maker.  Do you want to stay in the big cities?  It’s easy to take the train to get between them. In 4-1/2 hours, you can get from London to Edinburgh. Or maybe you want to focus just on one city.  Public transit can get you around like a local.

Maybe you want to get out into the countryside. Meet the locals. Experience the charm of the villages. Just like in the US, get out of the big cities and you will find the people more friendly and relaxed. Visit castles, standing stones, manor houses, quaint inns.  Stop into a pub for a cup of coffee, tea or brew. They are happy to share their stories, their history.

You could take tour buses, many people do. You and a group of 40 are loaded up and shuttled off to see the sites. Going with a crowd not your idea of fun, you could rent a car.  Renting a car in the UK is a bit of an adventure.  You will be driving on the opposite side of the road.  It’s easiest done with a driver and a navigator. The driver can focus on the road and the navigator can guide the turns.

Country maps are handy but often they don’t give you road detail.  A good sat-nav is helpful.  Rent a car with a sat-nav, or take a device like a Garmin with you.  Smartphones have navigation ability but it is going to be using your data feed.  Prices for data in foreign countries can be steep.  Investigate before you go.  You may only want to use your device where there is free Wi-Fi.

What to do?

Do you want to get the flavor of Britain?  Maybe this is a family heritage trip. Maybe you want to try hiking. Traveling Hadrian’s wall, in the beautiful Lake District or the Yorkshire Dales are popular with the locals and visitors alike. Do it for a day, or take one of the routes that include overnights along the way.

Horse lovers can do day rides between bed and breakfasts and see the country in a unique way.  Identify your goals and you are a giant step closer to getting the experience you want.

Plot out where you want to visit and pick destinations.  For the best prices, check Trip Advisor or other online booking agency. Other traveler’s reviews can help you select the place that meets your needs and budget.  Once you have your list, contact the property directly.  Ask about their specials.  Hotels and inns have to pay those booking companies a commission, up to 15% of the room cost. Typically, if you call direct, you will save.

Peak season in the UK is August.  Loads of locals take their vacations then.  If you can avoid it, you will save money and find your destinations less crowded.  You won’t typically find that much difference in weather from spring to summer.  Many people claim that like Oregon, autumn can be the best.  If you are interested in winter sports like skiing, winter is the season for you.

How much to see?

England, Scotland, and Wales are bigger than they seem.  Yes, you can take the total square miles and put it in the state of Oregon.  But the island is longer and narrower. The route from the traditional extreme end points of Land’s End to John o’ Groats is 814-838 miles depending on route. Driving time without traffic just under 16 hours.  There will be traffic, count on it. Also, lots of interesting places in between.  Don’t miss them.

Selecting one or several areas to focus on.  Stay several days. Explore from your base camp. It’s more relaxing than living out of a suitcase. Castles, manor houses, Inns and Bed and Breakfasts all across the UK offer accommodations. Chain hotels with names you will recognize are also available. They may not look like the ones back home.  Camping, yurts, glamping and recreational vehicles called Caravans are popular with the locals. Pick your experience.

If driving, allow for the roads. Going a distance of 135 miles in a day sounds easy. It is on a freeway. But if is on two-lane roads there are lots of curves more as they cross the undulating lands. A two-hour freeway trip can easily take four on secondary roads.  Take time for photo opportunities.  They will be around every bend.

 

Be Treated Like Royalty at Dromoland Castle

Irish Castle - Dromoland in western Ireland
Dromoland Castle in Ireland

Be Treated Like Royalty at Dromoland Castle

More shimmering shades of green than a box of paints. Gently rolling land with hundreds of acres to wander. A place to restore your spirits.  A place that slips you into a different world. Creature comforts embrace you. You can be as busy or as quiet as you like. Welcome to the Dromoland Castle Hotel in County Clare Ireland, a mere eight miles from the Shannon Airport.

Make your way up the narrow winding drive amidst hues of emerald trees. Camera ready?  Go carefully; local geese frequent the road. Past the Golf and Country Club, the lane rises, crests. Before you looms the 16th century, blue limestone, Castle with its Gothic towers. Perfectly groomed Victorian lawns and gardens extend to the forest and lakes.

Climb the 16 stone steps and be welcomed by liveried bellmen.  The friendly staff at Dromoland enjoy sharing the magic of a bygone era. They treat you like the nobility that Dromoland has hosted since rebuilt in the 1500s. This 450-acre estate was the home of the O’Brians of Dromoland who trace their lineage to Brian Boru, High King of Ireland over 1000 years ago.

History and luxury at Dromoland Castle

Throughout this richly appointed five star hotel, restoration focused on reviving the elegance and luxury of the Victorian era, complete with modern amenities.  Ancestral paintings adorn wood paneled walls. Stately stairways curve to the upper floors. Cozy chairs beckon. Sit, relax, and chat.

Your total comfort is behind the design and decoration of each unique guest room. Signature slippers and robes, custom linens and wall coverings, invite you to relax and let go of your hectic pace.  Gaze out of your windows on the serene gardens and ponds as you record today’s memories in your journal.

Nature, activities, and the spa

Surrounded by nature, stroll through the gardens. Take a tour of the extensive grounds. Ireland’s natural light makes for delightful photos – even when it rains. Golf, fishing, horseback rides, cycling and more await.

Need to unwind? Head for the spa!  Nestled on the lower level of the castle, immerse yourself in tranquility. The delicate fragrance of fresh cut flowers teases your nose. Candles and soft lighting soothe and calm.  Time stops as you soak in the gazebo covered outdoor hydro pool. Skilled therapists coax the stress out of every muscle, leaving you delightfully limp.  Whether you choose a stand-alone treatment or opt for a 2 to 5-hour package, you will emerge relaxed, refreshed and revitalized. Hungry?

Fabulous food

Visit the drawing room for Afternoon Tea.  Fresh petite sandwiches, pastries, scones with clotted cream, fruit tarts and more. Enjoy with your favorite tea or a glass of champagne.  Smoked salmon, Irish steak and succulent roast rack of lamb compete as dinner choices. Every meal delights your pallet.

Dromoland Castle is a great home base for exploring.

Head north to the craggy Cliffs of Moher and Galway. Let Bunratty Castle Folk Park take you back through time, to life over 400 years ago. If lucky, you might hear tales of Irish life from the storytelling lady who plays accordion there.

Unsure where to go? The concierge is happy to assist with tour ideas. Over 30,000 castles dot Ireland’s landscape. Leprechauns and four-leaf clover hide in the mists. Discoveries await in every direction.

Visit Dromoland Castle as the focus, the start, or to end your trip, it’s an experience of a lifetime. You will leave with new friends and lots of memories. Traveling on a budget? Go in the offseason or check out one of their specials. To learn more or schedule your stay, visit http://www.dromoland.ie/. 

Dromoland Castle Hotel
Visit Dromoland Castle soon enjoy feeling like royalty
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