As a child, a train journey held the promise of something magical. If you got a window seat, the journey was off to a good start. Not only did different landscapes roll past your window, but one also looked forward to the food. It wasn’t just what you brought with you – tiffins full of homemade savoury snacks – but also what was available during your train travel, and what other passengers generously shared with you! As an adult, train journeys are equally attractive. In Ireland, I often take the Dart from Dun Laoghaire to Greystones and Bray – just for the pleasure of getting a window seat and to have the coastal landscape accompany me all the way like it were a dear old friend. If you’re looking for some of the best train journeys from across the world, we’ve got a list ready. I would love to pack a few of my favourite reads, a sketching pad and a camera and just hop on! The Glacier Express, Switzerland I have put the Glacier Express on the top of my wish list because it may as well as be the world’s most well-known train journey. Now, here’s something interesting about this ‘Express’ voyage. It’s one of the world’s slowest express trains, and its gentle pace allows you to take in all the beauty of the Alps. At a leisurely, happy momentum that fills you with joy! Happy holidayers can get ‘all aboard’ on the Glacier Express from St. Moritz. Once they do, they’re in for a singularly magnificent journey – up on the mountains, over viaducts, through tunnels… The route includes, among other things, taking in the ascent of the Oberalp Pass, the marvellous Rhine Gorge through which the train travels alongside the river. You also get to see the Landwasser Viaduct. It’s a vast and curving limestone structure of six arches. Any Harry Potter fans here? Going over the Landwasser Viaduct should be an absolute treat, whether you’re a Potter fan or not. I, for one would feel like I’m on the Hogwarts Express and wheeling down a dreamy landscape! Palace on Wheels, India A cousin who was visiting India with her daughters booked the Palace on Wheels experience and came back very happy and wowed by this decadent train journey. Introduced to promote tourism in the state of Rajasthan, this train contains 14 passenger coaches, each named after a famous place in the state. Everything is absolutely regal and luxurious on this train journey – carpeted floors, intricately patterned walls, comfortable but traditional décor and there’s even a spa and gym! Imagine a train journey with air conditioned cabins, authentic delicious cuisine, breath taking destinations, and two restaurant cars. Called the Maharaja and the Maharani, they come equipped with a bar and you could explore local delicacies of Rajasthan as well as a wide number of items from the larger Indian cuisine. Not to forget the iconic Indian hospitality that escorts every moment of your voyage! The Palace on Wheels is a palatial train journey that takes you to Jaipur (the Pink City), Jaisalmer (the Golden City), Jodhpur (the Blue City), Udaipur (the City of Lakes), as well as the state’s wildlife-rich Ranthambore National Park and its world-famed Bharatpur bird sanctuary. You will also visit Agra, before returning to New Delhi. The Trans Mongolian Express, Mongolia to Beijing China The Trans-Mongolian Railway is an epic train journey. You may almost feel like a time traveller as the voyage takes you through the route of ancient tea caravans. The Express snakes its way from Russia to China via the Mongolian capital Ulaanbaatar. Again, the inspiration and yearning for this particular train journey comes from two things. The beautifully illustrated Russian folk tales that I read as a child, and the stunning photographs a friend shared of Ulaanbaatar. On the Trans Siberian Express you can travel east to west, or vice versa. Whatever route you choose, how gorgeous it would be to take in the landscape of Mongolia, China and Russia? Trusted tales from seasoned travellers speak of friendly passengers who invite you to play card games, share a drink and the joys of getting down at stations where you can buy local produce and handicrafts. The Ghan, Australia It may as well be the best way to explore Australia. The Ghan Expedition takes you on a train journey between Darwin and Adelaide, exploring one coast to another. Promising to be a unique experience, it provides a most vivacious slice of Australia for all of its passengers. This epic four-day train journey covers 2,979 km and takes you to some of the most remote and captivating parts of the country. You will travel in great comfort on this all-inclusive train journey, with a great selection of regionally-inspired menu paired with amazing local wines. Among other things, you will also be treated to a spectacular dinner under the stars at the historic Telegraph Station, Alice Springs! The Toy Train, India Train journeys are also about slow travel, unless of course you’re taking a bullet train! There’s something beautiful about being on a train, and watching the world go by… Life seems simpler as you sit by a window and the train gently meanders through a pretty landscape. There is no rush, no urgent meetings, nothing is as important as the view from your window. If this is your idea of how travel should be, then this 96-km train journey through a narrow-gauge track through the Shivalik foothills of India is certainly your cup of tea. A remnant of the British colonial era, this line goes through 102 tunnels, 864 plus bridges and around 919 curves! The train stops by at 18 stations, and at each stop, you can get down and try some of the local delicacies and produce on offer. Not to forget the chai! For how can you have a train journey in India without giving in to the charms of the tea vendors? Chai-chai, chai-chai they go chiming in their melodious voice, bringing you cups of tea flavoured with ginger, lemongrass or cardamom. Cusco to Machu Picchu, Peru Who hasn’t heard of Machu Picchu and its many charms? Machu Picchu is considered to be Peru’s most important tourist destination and one of the most-visited sites worldwide. Situated at 2,360 meters above sea level, in the Urubamba River Valley, Machu Picchu dazzles all who visit it with its beauty and mystery. And one of the best ways to travel to Machu Picchu is by a train journey. PeruRail offers many options, and most of these are very comfortable and tourist-friendly. The train journey from Cusco to the famed Inca sanctuary is a little over four hours. During your time on the train, you will be treated to some magnificent views making the journey as beautiful and appealing as the destination itself. The Jungfrau, Switzerland We’re back to Switzerland with the Jungfrau Railway. I’ve always heard glowing reviews from friends about taking the Jungfrau Railway; after all this two-hour train journey takes you from Interlaken Ost to Europe’s highest station at 3454 m above sea level, with a spectacular midway stop at Eismeer station. It’s comforting to note that the Jungfrau Railway operates year-round. All the photographs that I’ve seen — taken from summer, springtime to winter trips – have been gorgeous to say the list. If you put this train journey on your bucket list, you will certainly feel that you’re transported to another world once you experience it! The Amtrak, United States Wouldn’t it be wonderful to explore a vast country like the US in a comfortable long-distance train/s? That’s what Amtrak journeys across the US are all about. With more than 21,000 miles of track serving the United States and Canada and more than 500 station stops in 46 states, you can truly get a sense of the scale and diversity of the country. Amtrak’s  USA Rail Passes  lets you explore the USA at your leisure, hopping on and off the train at the cities and destinations of your choice. Now, if you’re to choose a trip for 2023, where would you want to take the Amtrak to? Any favourite destinations in the US that you want to try via an Amtrak train journey? The West Highland Line, Scotland When we lived in the UK, Scotland was one of our favourite destinations. My husband would travel to Scotland a lot for work (we lived in Reading), and sometimes I’d accompany him. I would only stay for the weekend and on my way back, take a train. And during that time, I would be glued to the window, all eyes on the landscape that seemed like it had leapt straight out of a painting! The West Highland line is considered to be one of the most scenic rail journeys in the world. Again, it is a double treat for Harry Potter fans. If you take the West Highland Line to Mallaig – you go across the Glenfinnan Viaduct, and viola, you’re on the Hogwarts Express route! But there’s more. You go along the west coast, through the famed Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park. Further on, the line splits at Crianlarich, carrying you either past Loch Awe to Oban, or high up to Rannoch Moor, through remote wilderness and on to Fort William and Mallaig. If you’re anything like me, you would be so enthralled. Shunning all conversations to simply ooh and aah over the magnificent landscapes that seem to wave at you via the window! The Venice Simplon Orient Express The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is known for its grand interiors and a truly exceptional way to tour Europe and its finest cities. You will certainly recall the movies and Agatha Christie’s novel on which they are based — Murder on the Orient Express. The crime novelist was said to be inspired by her journey aboard this luxurious train in 1928. Maybe a train journey aboard the Orient Express will also inspire the novelist-in-hiding in you. For it has plenty of history. Famed for hosting amazing parties and intriguing guests, among them spies, authors, ambassadors and royalty, journeys with the Orient Express are full of grandeur and magic. Perhaps you may want to look up the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express yourself and book a seat. Do drop in a comment please if any of these journeys make it to your list.

Newburyport, the smallest coastal city in Massachusetts, is a 30-minute drive from Logan Airport. Situated at the mouth of the Merrimack River, the area is so uniformly crafted and built, it looks like a stage set. A fire in the town in 1811 meant the space was rebuilt in the style of the time- Federalist Era red brick being the chosen material. The streets are graceful, without a gaudy shopfront insight. Rows of dazzling white mansions, museums, churches and shops culminate in a riverfront promenade and miles of pristine beach. With echoes of the past present in its current charm, Newburyport revels in its white sand, lobster diners, beautiful jewellery shops and mouth-watering bakeries Lunch and Cocktail: Tuscan SeaGrill & Bar overlooks the Merrimack River and boasts sweeping harbour views. It serves locally sourced seafood and Neapolitan-style pizzas. A very impressive raw bar takes centre stage. Al-fresco dining is an option all-year round as indoor fire pits are dotted around the space to create warmth and atmosphere even when the outdoor temperatures have reached that New England winter chill. Breakfast and Coffee: Pastry lovers will quickly notice that Newburyport has an abundance of good bakeries. Walk to Greta’s Great Grains Bakery and Cafe and choose from the enticing Austrian pastries with Bavarian cream, fruit and, of course, chocolate. A Gift: This is a tough choice- the shopping in Newburyport is dreamy. Forget American malls or outlets, this town is full of stunning boutiques with the most divine cashmere, luxury bathroom items and jewellery. M.K Benatti Jewellers is run by 10 professionals and their expertise is in custom design. All budgets are catered for and they house the Cape Cod Collection of elegant and timeless pieces. A Walk: Magically, Plum Island is named for the beach plums that grow wild along its dunes. Located off the coast of Newbury, the island stretches for 11 miles. It’s perfect for a walk and fascinating to see the many different styles of houses built on the sound- many on stilts in marshy terrain. A Pint: With a rotating menu of 32 craft beers, Grogg is a fun spot and a bit more casual than the majority of Newburyport watering holes. Decorated in nautical style, this is a quaint spot with great service. The turkey club sandwich is what it is known for and with good reason. After the Lobster Roll, the Turkey Club surely takes a top spot for dishes that New England serves up best. Food Market: Tendercrop Farms is a family-run business, since 1985. It offers a delectable bounty of apples, asparagus, beets, broccoli, corn, lettuce, melon, nectarines, peaches, tomatoes and strawberries -from its own farm and fields. The produce is harvested at the peak of its flavour and look (and taste) divine. This is the kind of wholesome-looking market that features on the big screen in romantic films.

The mid-term breaks are sneaky. You think you still have time to plan things but before you do, they sneak up on you. Knocking on your door and saying ‘You knew I’d be here. How could you forget?’ If you’ve not booked anything yet, worry not. We’ve you covered. We have some winning ideas for things to do during mid-term break, and especially around theme parks. Theme parks are great for mid-term visits. They make for an outing that you can take together as a family and are a winner with the little ones as well. Keeping them all happy and entertained. So where should you head to, if you’re looking for some wholesome fun and adventure in the UK? We have put together a list of theme and adventure parks that are quite popular. Have a look and let us know what you think. (P.S. The first one on the list isn’t available for this mid-term, it’s Harry Potter world after all. But since it’s always booked out and bookings for 2023 are now open, it’s time to put plans in action.) The Warner Brothers Harry Potter Studio Tour – London The Harry Potter Studio tour is an absolutely magical day out for everyone in the family – for children as well as for young-at-heart adults. Now most Potter fans know that tickets for the studio tour sell like hotcakes. You can’t buy them at the door, these must be booked in advance. Preferably two months or so in advance. So now that the bookings for 2023 are open, we reckon you should give it a shot. All eight films were filmed here, and you can see all the costumes, and recognise the iconic little props and details that make the films and the world of Harry Potter so special. You could also combine a studio tour with an afternoon tea, and a tickets & hotel package. it’s also worth keeping an eye out for the ‘ Dinner in the Great Hall’ experience. It’s currently sold out, but experiences like these and others like Hogwarts in the Snow are so popular and deliver a most unique experience. Of course, if you’ve been eyeing those much-coveted tickets for Harry Potter and the Cursed Child , better start sorting out those dates too. Plan a trip to London where you can do both – the studio tour and take in the play (and a nice dinner) the next day. How to get there by train, car, bus transfers and distance from airports Costing and booking information here Legoland – Windsor, London Legoland doesn’t really need an introduction but with over 55 rides, attractions and live shows, it’s a family favourite. Even if you have been there before, plenty of new experiences are up on offer. Like for example, in 2022, experiences like The Magical Forest, The Brick and Mythica were introduced. In October, there’s also a special offer called Brick or Treat . All through this month, till the 31st of October, the Resort at Legoland stands transformed. It becomes a pumpkin filled wonderland with a Lord Vampyre’s Haunted House Monster Party thrown in as well. There’s still some availability left for the mid-term break but don’t delay if you’ve set your heart on going to Legoland. We suggest you book right away to avoid being disappointed later. How to get there : Luton is a 45-minute journey to LEGOLAND Windsor Resort, while Gatwick Airport takes two hours by road. For the quickest train links, updated and timely information will be found at National Rail Enquiries . London Heathrow airport is only 12 miles from LEGOLAND Windsor Resort via the M4. Costing details for Online Savers, Annual Passes, Short Breaks here All booking details here Alton Towers – Alton I went to Alton Towers as a child, while visiting England, and I still remember the experience and thrill of it all. I didn’t have it in me to take in all the rides, especially the scary ones but boy, did I have fun! It will be the 15th year of Scarefest, and from the 14th to the 31st of October, Alton Towers Resorts gets its spookiest acts, scares, thrills and shocks out there for its guests. There is also going to be a brand-new scare attraction! How to get there: The nearest train station to Alton Towers is Uttoxeter Station, which is around 10 miles away from the park. From Uttoxeter station, it takes around 30 minutes to reach Alton Towers by bus, or around 20 minutes in a taxi. Costing details for Day Passes, Short Breaks, Annual Passes All booking details here Paultons Park – Romsey Paultons Park was voted as UK’s best rated theme park on Google and voting or not, children do love it to their cores. Because…because, apart from other things (read rides, attractions and the ‘Tornado Springs’), there’s the Peppa Pig World! Paultons Park has the world’s largest and first Peppa Pig World with nine rides that are just right for young children and toddlers. One visit there, and young Peppa Pig fans would get their fill of meeting their most favourite characters, apart from getting dozens of photographs. Besides, Mummy Pig, Daddy Pig, Zoe Zebra and Suzy Sheep also make seasonal appearances. Again, there is availability, but tickets are selling out very fast , so please start making your plans now. How to get there: Paultons is easy to reach being just off exit 2 of the M27, close to the edge of the New Forest National Park. Follow the brown tourist signs on the motorway. You can also travel from London on the Peppa Pig World Express. All transport details here . Costing details for Short Breaks , and for Day Passes . Adventure Island – Southend on Sea Southend on Sea scores a lot of points with families, especially because the entry to the amusement/theme park is free. So, you could spend a weekend at Southend and make a nice little family vacation out of a small break. Adventure Island has been voted as the top-rated theme park in Essex, and it’s easy to see why. The park, spread over seven acres, has value deals, a good selection of food and drinks, and of course an array of rides, amusements and attractions. All bookings are open ended, there are annual passes, and a flexible wristband system which allows you to plan your day the way you want to. How to get there: Find train, bus, and driving instructions here . Booking as well as costing details here Thorpe Park – Surrey Thorpe Park is no stranger to those who love fun, thrills and adventure. It plays home to popular roller coasters and amusement park rides. It also boasts of having the UK’s fastest roller coaster launching riders to 205ft at 80mph in just 2.5 seconds. There’s also the winged roller coaster and the ‘Tidal Wave’ – which provides the thrill of a spiralling descent. There’s a Halloween special Fright Nights and Rides in the Dark, but we think it would be more suitable for adults and teenagers. How to get to there: Once your flight lands at London, Thorpe Park is just a short train ride from Waterloo to Staines, followed by a Thorpe Park managed bus straight to the park.  Booking as well as costing details here Hope you get a head start on your mid-term holiday bookings, and from every one of us here – have a really good break!

A new festival coming to Seattle this autumn, Cloudbreak is a true celebration of the city’s vibrant music venues. Taking place from 3-23 November, the once-in-a-lifetime festival is a joint venture between Visit Seattle and King County, inviting travellers and locals to immerse themselves in Seattle’s much-loved live music scene.  In honour of Seattle’s music scene returning in full force once again, we look at the vast music offering in the city famed for icons including Jimi Hendrix and Nirvana’s very own Kurt Cobain. Things to See Museum of Pop Culture  As the birthplace of Nirvana, Pearl Jam and Jimi Hendrix to name a few, Seattle’s music heritage is world-renowned. The eclectic music scene is no better appreciated than at the  Museum of Pop Culture (MOPOP) . Designed by Frank Gehry, the eccentric, colourful building is said to represent the energy and fluidity of music, and is best appreciated from the top of the Space Needle. Inside, there are permanent exhibitions on the aforementioned musicians, a guitar gallery displaying instruments by artists such as Slash and Dave Grohl, and a sound lab where visitors can make their own music.  The Crocodile  In the 90’s,  The Crocodile  was the hot spot for every grunge band and fan up and down the country. Supporting aspiring artists such as Green Day, The Strokes, and Nirvana, these walls have seen some of the most iconic shows in music history. The 1,150 capacity venue is still an unparalleled, independent music sanctuary for artists and fans alike against the backdrop of Seattle’s music legacy. Nestled in Belltown,  it’s a must visit for every music fan.  Jimi Hendrix statue Attracting a wide range of fans and travellers from around the world, the Jimi Hendrix statue can be found in the Capitol Hill neighbourhood. Playing homage to the late rock guitarist, music lovers can’t leave the city without taking a selfie with the bronze statue. A body of work by local artist Daryl Smith, the real name of the statue is Electric Lady Studio Guitar. A memorial where the musician’s remains are buried can also be found at Greenwood Memorial Park in Renton.  Sound Garden Sound Garden, which the classic rock band of the same name was influenced by, is a large outdoor art installation made from steel pipe structures. Located on the shore of Lake Washington and offering beautiful surrounding views, the sculptures create musical sounds when wind passes through them. Visitors must show ID before entering. Where to Stay Cloudbreak Accommodation  As part of its once-in-a-lifetime music-driven festival, hotel guests at 70 participating Downtown Seattle hotels will gain free access to over 60 concerts across the city throughout the course of the festival. Guests can show their hotel key card along with a special Cloudbreak card on arrival at participating music venues in order to enter until full capacity is reached. The Edgewater Hotel During The Beatles’ first world tour in 1964, no hotel in Seattle would host them except for The Edgewater. Since hosting The Beatles, The Edgewater Hotel has seen numerous rock ‘n’ roll royalty come through its doors, including Led Zeppelin and The Rolling Stones. Guests can stay in one of the rock star-themed suites – The Pearl Jam Suite is a popular request featuring grunge décor, a guitar, amplifier and record player.

If you are a thrill-seeker, and seeking thrills that have an element of the ‘other world’, Spain’s got something in store for you. Sure, it’s known for its plentiful sun, bountiful beaches, and paella, but there’s a supernatural side to Spain that is worth exploring. Spain-Holiday.com , the portal for holiday rentals in Spain, has gathered 10 of the most interesting paranormal locations in the country that you are able to visit during your travels. From intriguing to terrifying, these destinations bring out a little bit of everything – ghosts, ghouls, witches, curses and more. We recommend that you keep an open mind, and travel safely with a cross, rosaries and pics of your most trusted gods! The abandoned village of Belchite, Zaragoza While there are many abandoned towns in Spain, none of them has a history as tragic and chilling as Belchite. A brutal battle took place in this town during the Spanish Civil War, with more than 5000 casualties, including most of Belchite’s 3000 inhabitants. The brutal aftermath caused the town to be abandoned, and its buildings slowly became ruins. But this was not the only effect of the slaughter that took place. Strange shadows in pictures, human-like apparitions and sudden screams: are only some of the unexplained phenomena that occur frequently in the town. Some visitors even have reported hearing the church bells ringing… from the empty and destroyed bell tower. If you would like to visit the eerie Belchite, take one of the guided, nocturnal tours and get close to its ghosts of the past. The witch caves of Zugarramurdi, Navarra Witch hunts were very common during Medieval times, and more so in Spain, where the Inquisition squashed any and every indication of witchcraft. The most famous case of witchcraft they investigated took place in Zugarramurdi, with deadly consequences for most of those involved. Thousands of people were accused of witchcraft, and while most of them repented, 40 people were tortured for months and in the end sentenced to death by burning. The witches of Zugarramurdi went into hiding after this tragedy. While today, you may not be able to find where they disappeared to, in the caves where they held their rites, you can get a feel of both – the tragedy that came upon the women and men who were accused of witchcraft and also the dark weight of what false accusations and persecution can bring upon people. The mysterious faces of Belmez, Jaen In a remote corner of Andalusia, you can find the town of Belmez de la Moraleda, a sleepy mountain village with less than 2000 inhabitants. The town was not on anyone’s map until 1971 when a peculiar paranormal phenomenon took place inside one of the whitewashed houses. It began with a stain in the shape of a man’s face on the kitchen floor. Although the stain was scraped off and covered, the face reappeared a couple of days later, and more faces began appearing throughout the house. While several analyses were performed to try and determine how the faces came into existence, they all contradicted each other, and until today, the exact cause of these strange faces is unknown. The house was built on top of an ancient cemetery, so the rumour went that they were manifested by the ghosts of people buried under the structure. Today, you can visit the house and get up close and personal with the faces of Belmez. Perhaps you will even be able to solve the mystery of this curious phenomenon… The haunted Cortijo Jurado in Malaga, Andalusia On the outskirts of Malaga, you can find a mansion that has to lay in ruins for decades. It belonged to the most powerful families of Malaga and is touted as the most active paranormal hotspot of the city. The mansion’s haunted history starts with the disappearance of five girls whose bodies were found near the mansion, covered in strange wounds. Rumours of satanic rituals by the owners of the mansion soon spread among the locals. The Cortijo Jurado was later used as a prison and execution spot during the civil war. Years later, urban explorers found a vast network of hidden tunnels that departed from the mansion, with one of those tunnels leading to a torture chamber. With this sad and deadly history of the Cortijo Jurado, one may be tempted to think that there are many spirits still haunting the building, unable to move on. Numerous apparitions have been reported to appear in the building, mainly in the courtyard and on the first floor. Visitors have also heard disembodied voices indicating that bodies are buried deep under the central courtyard. Whether they are victims of the satanic rites or executed prisoners remains a mystery. Discover the mysteries of the Cortijo Jurado yourself during one of the nocturnal visits! The mysterious disappearances in La Mussara, Tarragona La Mussara is a small ghost town in Tarragona, abandoned by its inhabitants decades ago. The town itself may look unassuming, but locals know better than to wander around La Mussara and its surroundings. If you decide to pay the ruins a visit, locals may warn you that it’s likely that you may never return. That is because, over the past years, several people have disappeared from La Mussara without a trace. What happened to them is unknown, but the local legend says that when the fog covers the countryside around La Mussara, it causes gateways to another world to open, which will swallow any unsuspecting hikers, for them to become trapped in this other reality. The fog seems to cause other strange and paranormal phenomena in La Mussara too. People have reported hearing disembodied voices, seeing strange figures and even hearing the church bells ring, even though the bell tower has been completely empty for years. If you are visiting Tarragona, the hiking routes near La Mussara are absolutely amazing and highly recommended. You can explore the ruins of the village and discover the amazing landscape of Northern Spain. But if you see fog appearing itmaybe a good idea to turn back… The Ghosts of the Reina Sofía Museum, Madrid Anyone who has visited Madrid knows that for the best collection of 20th-century art, you should visit the Museo Reina Sofía. There you can admire world-famous works of art by Picasso, Dalí and other artists. But the museum is not only home to art: many visitors have witnessed ghosts and other apparitions wandering around the hallways. These spirits are very likely the unfortunate souls of people that were buried on the museum’s plot when the building was still used as a hospital. This story was confirmed in the 90s when construction workers discovered mummified remains and human bones during renovations of the building. The ghosts of the museum like to mess with the workers, by making strange noises, slamming doors and turning on elevators that are not connected to the electric grid. When you visit the Museo Reina Sofia you might also be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of some of the ghosts, because they are known to wander about the exposition rooms to appreciate the artworks. The glowing people of Barranco de Badajoz, Tenerife The Barranco de Badajoz is a ravine located on the island of Tenerife. Years ago it was famous for the extensive mining operations running through the ravine walls, but nowadays it is a popular hiking area. This ravine has many strange, paranormal legends connected to it. There have been many reported incidents of strange lights and luminous or glowing beings in the ravine, and when the mine was still active, two miners allegedly made contact with these beings and even spoke to them. The most mysterious story is that of a girl who disappeared while she was in the ravine and came back 30 years later, looking the same as the day she went missing. She said that people made of light took her to a cave and talked to her for a few minutes, after which she left the cave and went home immediately. These legends or tales have caused many locals to believe that the Badajoz ravine is connected to a parallel dimension, the home of these peculiar creatures. The ravine is still very active with many reports of paranormal activity until today, so if you decide to hike your way through, keep your eyes out for any strange phenomena! The Monastery of the Devil in Carmona, Seville A monastery cursed by the devil himself, that’s what you will find when you visit Carmona, a sleepy village near Seville. The building was only in use for about two decades before a terrible tragedy occurred. One night, all monks except one were brutally murdered. The surviving monk discovered the bodies in the basement and supposedly came face to face with the devil who decided to spare him for the simple reason that the monk had to announce his arrival to everyone. Immediately afterwards, a fire started spontaneously and burned the entire monastery to the ground. It is said that the spirits of the murdered monks are still trapped inside the ruins, and have manifested themselves through spheres of light, whispers and apparitions. There are several guided nocturnal tours you can join if you want to discover the monastery and its dark legend, but if you are feeling particularly brave, you can also visit the abandoned ruins on your own… The most famous cursed village in Spain: Ochate, Burgos The small town of Ochate is famous in Spain for being cursed, due to the many tragedies and mysteries surrounding this location. It was a bustling town until 1860 when the first of three epidemics in only one decade struck the city. The epidemic only affected the town and did not spread to the neighbouring villages, which started the rumour of the curse of Ochate. Most of the town’s inhabitants abandoned the place, and years later the final villagers moved away because of a gruesome murder committed by one of the residents. Ever since, Ochate is said to have been home to countless supernatural incidents, such as ghosts wandering the bell tower, unusual lights appearing in the sky, and the disembodied voices of women and children reaching out to visitors. If you feel brave enough to face the curse of Ochate, visit the town and discover its mysteries! Porta does Alén, the gateway to the underworld in Pontevedra. On the highest peak of the Serra do Cando in North Spain, hikers will come across a strange Dolmen construction that looks a lot like a door. Locals call it the Porta do Alén, the gate to the underworld. No one knows exactly who raised the structure or when, but it is known that the region’s inhabitants have used it as a sort of altar for centuries. According to legend, the Porta do Alen connects to the world of spirits. Through this gate, the Santa Compaña (Spain’s version of the Wild Hunt) enters our world looking for victims to take to the underworld. Locals and other visitors will also leave offerings such as food, small objects, plants and notes around the gate to ask for good luck. More obscure legends tell of a ritual that was used in ancient times to banish malevolent spirits through the gate back to the underworld, and that they are still waiting at the other side of the door to return to our world. That’s why local superstition says to never walk through the gate yourself because maybe you will invite some of them to cross over. Visit the Porta do Alén and experience the bone-chilling atmosphere of this otherworldly gate yourself. That is if you’re brave enough to do so. Just a note though. These ghostly tales, spooky folklores and urban legends are interesting and thrilling, but one must take them with a pinch or two of salt perhaps? Yes, yes, we know. We did ask you to keep an open mind and carry a cross for good measure but make that an open mind and a pinch of salt, please! Happy travels to all thrill seekers, and if you find a ghost or ghostly being, do give us a shout.

Trying different cuisines and dishes is a large part of our holidays. Sometimes it may as well be the highlight of our travels. Would you ever forget the taste of Pici Pasta – a delicious hand-rolled Tuscany delight that you had on your travels to Italy? Or how you relished Hainanese Chicken Rice from a humble hawker centre in Singapore? Trying different foods helps us discover a country and its people. It also helps stock our pantries with diverse ingredients and our recipe books are richer with a multitude of new and exciting recipes to try out. But how can you get the best out of your eating adventures? How do you know where to go and what to avoid? If you are driven by the desire to eat like a local and steer clear of overtly touristy eateries, we’ve some tips on hand. These will certainly help in getting you more authentic experiences. Save the links, and pin the posts! A little research goes a long way in ensuring that you get to eat like a local. It helps you get the inside scoop on where the locals go when they want a sweet treat or a good roast. So where do you start? If you have the time, indulge in some quick Internet research. Many food bloggers or even bloggers who live locally have great posts and suggestions on their favourite places to eat and drink in the region. They will not only have a handy list of restaurants, cafes, street foods and food trucks but there may also be more. A bit about the local cuisine, festivals and feasts. So if you see something you like, save it for your journey. A lot of bloggers also reply to emails, so if you have a query, do send mail to them or leave a comment on their post! And if you’re more into reading non-fiction books, they are a good resource as well, including city/destination guides that provide listings of restaurants and cafes. Ask your host and the hotel staff It always helps to ask. Most people are more than happy to recommend their favourite restaurant or bakery – be it your Airbnb host or the hotel staff. The way I’d frame my questions is: ‘If you had to take your family out for a good meal, where’d you go?’ Or ‘I feel like a good snack, something that I can carry with me. Is there a bakery nearby that you recommend?/ What dish would you have at this time of the year and where?’ It has always led me to interesting and authentic places. Once on an all-girls trip, our driver took us to a really quaint (and sans any frills) place in Coorg, Karnataka . It served one of the softest and most delicious steamed rice balls (called Kadumbuttu in the local parlance). This eatery, located in the basement of a nondescript-looking building was a great find. The steamed rice balls came paired with a fiery curry, and I have never forgotten how flavoursome they were. I know for a fact that we’d have never found the place on our own. However, asking our driver, and being open to eating where he suggested really led us to an culinary experience we’d never forget. On that trip to Coorg, we certainly ate as locals do! Follow the crowds and the queues This tip is tried and tested and has been put to good use on several of our trips. Let me give you an example. In Malta , we were resting our tired feet on a bench in Rabat when we came upon a serpentine queue. Made up of people on their lunch break, men and women with wizened, kindly face, schoolchildren and young people, it snaked its way to a modest-looking bakery. This was our clue. We joined the line. It led us to our best Pastizzi in Malta. Piping hot from a multi-tiered oven, and filled with ricotta, peas and chicken, it was an absolute treat! We would have certainly missed this modest little bakery known as Crystal Palace if we hadn’t joined the queue of people out on their lunch break! So do join the queue or make a beeline for a place that is crowded with locals. If the locals trust a place and its fare, you certainly won’t be disappointed. Take a food tour or a cooking class Food tours are a really fun and interesting way to spend an afternoon or a few hours in a new city. You get to sample a variety of food and drink, meet the people behind these dishes, and maybe even a renowned chef! Food tours can also offer a pub crawl or a discovery of the best coffee haunts. You just need to find something that ignites your curiosity. You can also take a cooking class, eat homemade food and get access to an heirloom recipe if that’s something you rather fancy. Visit farmers’ markets, bazaars, food fairs Sometimes you may get lucky and be in a city when its Friday food market is being held, or its annual food feast is on. A lot of hotels and resorts also celebrate food festivals that are centered around a local custom or ingredient. For example, if you were in Antalya in September, you could’ve made some time for the ‘International Food Fest Antalya’. If you’re planning to go to Portugal in January , you could make time for the Pork Sausage Festival. Known locally as Festa das Chouriças, it’s one of the most popular Portuguese food festivals. Located in the Algarve region in Querença, this festival honors St. Luís, patron of the animals and includes homemade sausage, musical performances, religious celebrations and a procession. Then there are the local markets. No matter what time of the year, you visit a country, there’s always a market that you could explore. When you go to a local market, it’s a win-win. Not only do you get to eat a variety of foods and treats that are authentic, but you can also shop for goodies to bring back with you! A little taste of Italy, Majorca, India or Portugal to spice up your pantry or sweeten your evening tea! There’s always something going on – you just need to find it, and chase your culinary travel dreams. Did you enjoy our tips on how to eat like a local? If you’ve some of your own, we are all ears.

A lot of us are busy dreaming of and planning the holidays that we will take in 2023. And why not? There’s so much of the world that needs to be seen and explored, and now that Covid is behind us, we want to travel more. And that is why, we are suggesting that Argentina make your travel bucket list. A destination of endless adventure, Argentina is home to some of the most diverse natural landscapes in the world. From the snow-capped mountains of Patagonia to the lush jungles and waterfalls of Misiones, visitors can enjoy a wealth of life-changing experiences in one trip alone. With the removal of all COVID-19 entry restrictions to the country, the reinstatement of the direct flight from London Heathrow to Buenos Aires with British Airways from 26 March 2023, and the launch of the digital nomad visa, there has never been a better time to discover some of the incredible adventures awaiting travellers in Argentina.  There are multiple reasons why you should visit this beautiful country, and tons of things to do once you are there. For now, we will list the top 5 ones here: Stargaze surrounded by spectacular landscapes With its clear, dark skies, Argentina is one of the best destinations in the world for a year-round stargazing experience. Argentina’s national Astro tourism capital, El Leoncito National Park in San Juan, is located at 2,552 metres above sea level and is home to Argentina’s biggest diameter telescope. El Leoncito National Park is also perfect for hiking, with beautiful waterfalls and trails to explore. Other stargazing spots include Salto Encantado Provincial Park in Misiones with spectacular natural surroundings and Ampimpa Observatory in Tucumán which is one of the country’s most educational observatories. Discover the vineyards of Mendoza Producing 78% of Argentina’s wine, and home to over 1,200 wineries, Mendoza Province is renowned for its rolling vineyards, winery tours and cosmopolitan downtown area. But drinking wine is not the only activity to enjoy in this world-class wine region. Cycle around the vineyards and soak up the fascinating panoramic views, try harvesting your own Malbec with the help of a local wine expert, relax in a yoga class among the vineyards, or stay in one of the many cabins or hotels at the foot of the Andes Mountain range.  Explore the capital, Buenos Aires With the return of the British Airways direct flight from London Heathrow to Buenos Aires from 26 March 2023, now is the perfect time to discover Argentina’s vibrant capital. The city’s historic centre plays an important role and visitors can tour the famous Casa Rosada, Argentina’s Government House, and explore San Telmo, the oldest neighbourhood in the city and the tango mecca, with colonial buildings, antique shops and small cafes. Wander the streets of the trendy Palermo neighbourhood, home to independent boutiques and murals, and enjoy beautiful landscapes and local gastronomy in Tigre.  Embark on one of 17 nature routes with La Ruta Natural Experience the natural beauty and scenic attractions of Argentina with  La Ruta Natural  (The Natural Route), a new tourism website offering detailed tips to help travellers plan their trips in a responsible, sustainable way. With 17 routes across the whole country, visitors can enjoy experiences including scuba diving in the Patagonian Sea, meeting the indigenous Qom community in Chaco, witnessing awe-inspiring landscapes such as Ischigualasto and seeing a host of wildlife, from emperor penguins near Ushuaia to capuchin monkeys in Iguazú National Park. Visit the 11 UNESCO World Heritage Sites  Argentina is home to 11 UNESCO World Heritage Sites – including five natural and six cultural sites – each offering a completely unique experience. Travellers can join a guided hiking tour in Los Glaciares National Park to Perito Moreno, the most famous glacier in the country, or discover the exceptional cave paintings over 9300 years old in Cueva de los Manos (the Cave of Hands) in Santa Cruz. Sites also include the Natural Parks of Ischigualasto and Talampaya with impressive red geological formations, and the Jesuit Missions of the Guaranis – the remains of five Jesuit missions built during the 17th and 18th centuries.  Are you inspired to explore Argentina? Let us know. Or if you have been there once but are aching to go there again, do leave us a comment as well.

We all love good deals and offers, and most of us want to start booking our holidays much in advance. This way, we’ve set our holiday goals and made some savings as well. The more we save, the more we can spend it on discovering newer places and destinations! But impromptu, last-minute holidays are good too; they bring spontaneity and a bit of spice into our lives. That’s why, we have two new offers for you, and both choices are amazing. You can choose to go to Egypt or explore Vietnam. While the Egypt deal is available from May 2023, you can do Vietnam this month itself. In fact, the official site of Vietnam’s tourism industry has recorded a big jump in the global ranking of most visited websites over the past year (according to traffic analysis firm SimilarWeb). It is now fourth in the region, coming after Singapore, Indonesia and Thailand. Cruise The Nile with Travel Department Sail with Travel Department down the Nile River and through Egypt on this unique holiday that combines the exotic beauty of Cairo and the vibrant resort of Hurghada with an unforgettable 7-night cruise. Your holiday begins in the magnificent city of Cairo, where you’ll get to absorb the ancient sites including a full day city tour, a visit to the Egyptian Museum and a trip to the Khan El Khalili bazaar. You’ll also pay a visit to Egypt’s most iconic sites: the Pyramids of Giza and the Great Sphinx. Then you’ll embark on a relaxing river cruise down the Nile with a range of excursions along the way including the Temple of Horus, the Valley of Kings, the High Dam and the Temples of Karnak and Luxor. Finally, you’ll enjoy a 3-night stay in Hurghada, the beautiful beach resort town stretching 40km along Egypt’s Red Sea coast. Explore Egypt on this 12-night guided group holiday stepping back in time, without missing out on comfort and luxury on your travels. Departs on the 6th of May 2023 from €2259pps and includes flights, transfers, full board basis on the Cruise and B&B/half board in hotel as well as expert guides and tours. If you need more information, you can find it here. Explore Vietnam with TD active Holidays Join TD active Holidays on an adventure to Southeast Asia on this 13-night guided group holiday to Vietnam. This beautiful country has so much to offer, from stunning white sandy beaches and buzzing cities to spectacular countryside filled with rice fields and sleepy villages. On this holiday of a lifetime, you’ll embark on a cultural discovery tour of Vietnam from North to South. You’ll get to experience Hanoi’s Old Quarter by cyclo ride, cycle through the Vietnamese countryside in search of pagodas, explore the underground network system of the Cu Chi Tunnels, cruise through the emerald waters of Halong Bay and soak up the local culture in the Mekong Delta. This small group tour allows you to truly immerse yourself in the Vietnamese way of life. Departs on 11th Nov 2022 from €2,199 pp and includes return flights, transfers, 13 nights’ accommodation, expert guides and tours. Find more details here.

Travel and culinary experiences are like the sea and seashells – can you ever think of one, without the other? After all, who doesn’t want to see more of the world, and experience different food cultures whilst doing so. And for that reason, we are here to help if you’re heading to Turkey and want to explore more of its delicious food and cuisine. Turkey has been very popular with tourists this year, and it’s expected that this surge will continue. Not only does Turkey offer great beaches, beautiful architecture and landscapes, it tops it up with a rich and varied cuisine, one that differs from region to region. So what it is that you must try? And how? I will start from my favourites, and I hope you enjoy these experiences as much as I did. This feature is about Istanbul, and we’ll do a part two for Cappadocia for these are the two places and regions where I chased my culinary delights. And came with memories of a lifetime, a double chin, and recipe books! Start your day early and happy with a Simit Chances are that you will find a food cart vendor right outside your hotel (we did!), and get your first real taste of Turkey right away. So what’s a Simit? It’s a circular bread layered and encrusted with sesame seeds. Just like a bagel, if you please. These are usually eaten in the morning and most bakeries would display them in a tempting way. On our first morning in Istanbul, we decided to skip a buffet breakfast and take our cue from the locals. We promptly spotted a cart with an alluring spread of Simit, and they were so fresh. I felt like a local as I dug into my still-warm Simit, and took a tram that was full of office-goers. You can pair a Simit with Turkish tea, cheese, clotted cream or even honey but they are equally delicious on their own. T ake a delightful break for fresh juices and roasted chestnuts If you’re hopping from one place or palace to another, and want something to snack on, or something refreshing, go for roasted chestnuts and a glass of freshly squeezed juice (it could be anything from orange, apple, grapes, melon, pomegranate and more!) Known as Kestane Kebab, the chestnuts make for delightfully simple snacks. If you talk to a local, they will tell you that many households in Istanbul often roast them on wood-fired ovens. In the streets, they are grilled with their skin on and are such a good treat for the chilly winds of winter (though they’re available all year round). Both – the fresh juices and chestnuts – are so pocket-friendly, but we’ve to say that most eating adventures in Turkey are reasonably priced. Just perfect, isn’t it? Especially so if you’re on a budget. A kofte trail – find the original, and also the ‘imposter’! Kofte is meatballs, and you can’t do Istanbul without doing koftes. Now here’s the thing. There is a very old (1920) kofte restaurant in the Sultanahmet area called the Sultanahmet Koftecisi. It has a minimal, bare décor, and a simple menu. We tried the beef Izgara kofte, and they turned out to be the most delicious ones of our trip. There’s also a second restaurant by the same name, and we ended up going there too. While it’s not the original, its succulent chicken kebabs didn’t disappoint either. We gave our business to the original, and the imposter and were rewarded with happy bellies and hearts. It’s also a good idea to order the lentil soup (chorba) along with your koftes, and you will end up having a most comforting and wholesome meal. Go for light lunches and big dinners When we travel, lunch is usually kept light, and dinner can be a more leisurely experience. That way, during the daytime we get to see more of the place we are at. That’s what we did in Istanbul as well. We tried small lunches and at different places – at a marketplace, opting to go with what the shopkeepers had for themselves. It turned out to be chicken pilav – rice with shreds of chicken and chickpeas that was served with pickled Istanbul green chillies. Near Istanbul University, we ate like students. Thrifty meals of chickpea stew with rice teamed with a salty yoghurt drink called Ayran. We also took our clue from families out on a picnic in Uskudar and had uskumru sandwiches (freshly grilled mackerel tucked in a loaf of bread along with slices of tomatoes and onions). There was just one lone stall, and all the families made a beeline for it, and so did we. (Uskudar is a neighbourhood of Istanbul, Turkey, located on the Asian side of the Bosphorus, just across from Besiktas. There are many tea and coffee joints there, and also cafes that offer shisha or hookah with different flavours.) For dinner, it’s a good option to try to tack Iskander. These are chicken donor kebabs served over soft slices of roasted pide bread, and accompanied with gravy, yoghurt, salad and French fries. You could also have a hookah, and end your meal with some dessert. Most restaurants would offer an assortment of Turkish desserts, and my tip is to opt for kunefe (a cheese-based dessert served with ice cream and pistachio nuts) and firing sultan (a baked rice pudding served in a clay dish). If you are hungry between meals, try these In between breakfast on the go, a light lunch, a street-side snack, and a leisurely dinner, you may feel like indulging yourself a bit more. If you do, Istanbul offers you plenty of opportunities. Whilst shopping and bargaining, many shopkeepers extend a cup of Turkish tea and coffee (most times, for free). It’s part of the shopping experience and their hospitality. There are also sherbet sellers in traditional gear with their cooling, fragrant drinks. We had what they called a rose-hip sherbet and it was just the thing for a hot day. And how can we forget the mischievous ice cream sellers? Eating ice cream in Turkey is an experience in itself. You may have seen a video on social media, but it’s fun to experience it for yourself. Of course, these are just some of my personal favourites, and there is plenty more in Istanbul to discover, devour and enjoy. If you want some Michelin-recommended or Michelin-starred restaurants to try out, here’s a link for that too. Plus, if you’ve always been interested in food adventures, and the prospect of eating like a local excites you, we have something on that too! You will find it here .

Peru is getting closer to achieving its ambition of having its food recognised as being the best in the world. The country has just won the enviable accolade of ‘World’s Leading Culinary Destination’ at the global edition of the World Travel Awards. Already a tourist hotspot, Peru’s travel reputation was cemented at this year’s WTAs, viewed as the Oscars of world tourism, with it landing the top gongs for best cultural destination in the world, leading culinary destination in the world, and best tourist attraction in the form of Machu Picchu. “This is the fourth time that Peru has been recognised as a leading cultural destination in the world and the fifth time that our world wonder, Machu Picchu, has been imposed in the category of tourist attraction,” the Commission for the Promotion of Peru for Exports and Tourism (Promperú) said .Also, this is the 10th time that Peru has won the award as ‘leading culinary destination’ in the global edition of the WTA, “which brings us closer to the goal of positioning Peruvian cuisine as the best in the world.” “It drives us to continue. These awards are an important recognition for the work of all Peruvians,” said the executive president of Promperú, Amora Carbajal. “Knowing that our country is a destination that stands out in the world, with a rich culture and gastronomy that are increasingly valued by international travellers,  fills us with satisfaction and drives us to continue working to promote the attractive and diverse tourist offer. from Peru,” he said . If you’re looking for more food related travel stories, or how you can make the best of your culinary adventures – take a look here , and there’s also more here .

Chile has been officially ranked as the world’s greenest tourist destination. For the third time in history, Chile was awarded as the Best Green Destination in the World in the 29th version of the World Travel Awards, also known as the “Oscars of Tourism”. The award, which had previously been awarded to Chile in 2019 and 2020, recognises the existence and promotion of nature destinations, and the planning, development and promotion of responsible and sustainable tourism experiences. Chile surpassed Peru, Ecuador, Madagascar and Norway in the category.  With the rise of experience tourism, added to the greater awareness of the damage caused to the planet by human intervention and unfriendly practices with the environment, this award highlights the value of initiatives to discover, enjoy and appreciate the ecological, aesthetic and ethical aspects of “green” forms of tourism. “As a Government we are very happy with this recognition. This reaffirms our commitment to continue developing a green and sustainable tourism industry, promoting rural tourism and experiences that support local communities, that respect the diversity of flora and fauna and that work to preserve the natural heritage of our country,” said Verónica Kunze, Chile’s Undersecretary of Tourism. For the Chilean Government, tourism development must be sustainable and must be based on the protection of natural resources. For this reason, one of the lines of work of the Executive is the support for the certification and recertification of companies with the “Sello S” of Sernatur, a distinction in sustainable tourism that guarantees the visitor that tourist accommodation, tour operators and travel agencies comply with global criteria of tourism sustainability, in the socio-cultural, environmental and economic fields. “Sustainability, today, is a real and concrete commitment in the country’s tourism strategy, so having been crowned the Best Green Destination in the World at the World Travel Awards is the result of this joint effort that we have carried out associatively in the sector. Chile not only stands out for its natural attributes, but also for the experience provided by a sustainable offer that has been consolidating for being inclusive, innovative and sustainable,” highlighted the national director of Sernatur, Beatriz Román. The Best Green Destination in the World joins three other awards given to Chile in 2022, including the Best Destination, Best Romantic Destination and Best Adventure Tourism Destination, all in South America. In total, there have been 27 awards given to Chile by the World Travel Awards since 2015.

If you’ve always wondered about what the festive season looks like in New Jersey, maybe this is the clue for you to find out. And by that we mean, not just via our words and this feature, or by romcoms and what’s on telly. Sure those are good ways to let your imagination fly, and there are joys of being an armchair traveller as well. But you can find out for yourself. Be there in person. And even if you have been to New Jersey before, it’s always good to be there for Christmas. This is because New Jersey comes alive with the Christmas spirit during the holiday season, with events, tours and displays taking place across the state throughout November and December. It helps that there are multiple daily direct flights from London Heathrow , Edinburgh and Dublin into Newark. Add to it a great choice of accommodation to suit all budgets and some great bargains to be found as well if you want to do a little tax-free Christmas shopping. That is why, now is a great time to take a trip to the Garden State. Here’s all the travel inspiration to get you in the mood for a New Jersey Christmas. Light Displays Dasher’s Newark Drive-Through Christmas Light Show This spectacular Christmas drive-through celebration features the syncing of over one million lights choreographed to holiday music played through your car radio on 97.5 FM. Running at Newark Moonlight Cinema from 25 th  November 25th until 31st December. Read more  here . Orchard of Lights – Drive-Through From 23 rd  November until 1 st  January 2023 Demarest Farms in Hillsdale will be running their annual festival drive-through, with 32 acres of brilliant holiday light displays. In addition, there is a fire pit to sit around and enjoy hot cocoa and treats from the farm market, make your own S’mores, take pictures with Santa and listen to the singing Reindeer. Intrigued? Skylands Stadium’s Light Show and Christmas Village Sussex County’s Skyland Stadium transforms into a dazzling winter wonderland from 23 rd  November to 31 st  December, showcasing a mile-long drive-through Christmas light display and a Christmas Village full of fun-filled activities, delicious treats and memory-making photo opportunities. Christmas Markets The German Christmas Market of New Jersey Enjoy the sights, sounds and smells of a German Christmas Market at Sussex County Fairground. The largest Christmas market in New Jersey, where you can visit over 100 vendors located in the authentic wooden huts, enjoy Christmas entertainment, food, Christmas lights and displays, Santa visits, wagon rides and a fairground. Taking place on 2 nd  to 4 th  of December. Christmas Train & Trolley Rides Cape May’s Trolley Rides The charming Victorian town of Cape May is the perfect destination for immersing yourself in the Christmas Spirit. A number of festival trolley tours are put on over the festive season, these include  Santa’s Trolley Ride where Mrs. Claus takes to the wheel as she shares Christmas stories and songs and The Holiday Lights Trolley Ride which tours the historic streets of Cape May teaching guests about the history of many of the Christmas traditions of today. Phillipsburg’s Polar Express Christmas Train This one hour, 45-minute vintage train excursion along the Delaware River is inspired by the hit movie and the award-winning book by Chris Van Allsburg. A hugely popular family Christmas event that includes storytelling, Christmas sing-alongs, performances and a meeting with Santa himself. Parades Christmas Parade, Ocean City Ocean City’s 2022 Christmas Parade will take place on Friday, 2nds December 2nd, going down Asbury Avenue beginning at 6th street and ending at 12th street. This wonderful family friendly parade includes floats, musical acts, dance and cheers teams. Greater Wildwood Jaycees Christmas Parade The popular Jaycee Christmas Parade takes place on 2 nd  December, starting at 6pm, the parade is followed by a Tree Lighting Ceremony & Parade Awards. Walking Tours Cape May Candlelit House Tours This tour has been a beloved annual tradition in America’s only National Historic Landmark City since 1974. Celebrating the best of Cape May at Christmas, the tour travels through Cape May’s gas-lit streets, giving guests the chance to hear musicians and carollers, and visit more than a dozen homes, inns, B&Bs, churches and hotels and see both Victorian and more modern interiors beautifully decorated for the Christmas season. Christmas Shows Cirque Dreams Holidaze, Atlantic City A specially themed holiday show, Holidaze sees various Christmas ornaments magicked to life as the seasoned troupe of acrobats and singers perform a Broadway-style musical infused with contemporary circus. The show takes place at the Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino Resort on 11 th  December. Christmas Shopping A shopper’s paradise, New Jersey is home to more malls per square mile than any other U.S. state. With the exchange rate not being in our favour at the moment, bargain shopping is all the more important so it is great to know that there are a number of discount outlets throughout New Jersey so you can make your pound stratch a little further. The Mills at Jersey Gardens is New Jersey’s largest outlet mall with more than 200 stores located just five minutes from Newark Liberty International Airport is makes a great stop off on your way home. Jersey Shore Premium Outlets, Tinton Falls has 120 outlet stores and  Tanger Outlets in Atlantic City  has more than 90 brand name outlets offering 20 to 40 percent below retail prices. For more information on Christmas shopping in New Jersey  click here .