You can enjoy a great time in the city, while also sunning yourself at the beach and enjoying some amazing views. So, here are a few tips that will not only help you get the most out of your trip to Naples but will make you appreciate it so much more.

When to Visit Naples

One of the great things about Naples is that there’s something to offer all year round. The best time to visit Naples comes down to what you want out of the city.

Naples does get very hot in the summer, which is great if you don’t want to leave the beach. But if you do plan on exploring Naples, avoid July and August as it can get hot. The winters in Naples are particularly mild, without being too wet.

Still, most people enjoy visiting Naples in the late spring and fall, simply because it’s nice and warm without being too hot. Be sure to check out the prices for accommodation around the year, as well as any events or festivals that might interest you.

Eating in Naples

One of the most compelling reasons to visit Naples is its incredible food and drink scene. Known as the birthplace of pizza, Naples is home to the famously simple yet delicious Neapolitan pizza, made with a thin, soft crust, San Marzano tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and a drizzle of olive oil. No trip to Naples is complete without trying an authentic Margherita or Marinara straight from a traditional wood-fired oven.

But Naples’ culinary appeal goes far beyond pizza—local trattorias serve up hearty pasta dishes like spaghetti alle vongole (with clams) and ragù Napoletano, a slow-cooked meat sauce bursting with flavor. Given the city’s coastal location, seafood is a must-try, with specialties like fritto misto (fried seafood), polpo alla Luciana (octopus in tomato sauce), and freshly caught anchovies. Wash it all down with a glass of locally produced Falanghina or Lacryma Christi wine, and don’t forget to end your meal with a sfogliatella pastry or a shot of strong Neapolitan espresso. Naples is a paradise for food lovers, offering authentic flavors and rich culinary traditions that make every meal an experience.

Related » Avoiding Travel Sickness: Expert Tips For Travelers

Exploring Naples

When you visit Naples, you will soon realize how interesting and vibrant this city is. Naples enjoys a great night life, which is a great way to spend your evening after a delicious meal. But there are also plenty of museums if you prefer a quieter stay, or you could always hit the streets and explore the shops.

It’s also a good idea to explore some of the sites of interest around Naples itself. It’s very close to the Amalfi Coast and Pompeii, meaning that Naples can be a wonderful place to make a home base while you explore some of Italy. It’s also very close to Rome, meaning that you can hit both cities on the same visit.

Of course, there’s so much to do during your trip to Naples and it’s very easy to run out of time before you run out of things to see. But rather than feeling pressured to rush around, try to slow down and soak in the city.

You can travel via taxi, public transport, or hiring a car. If you prefer to walk the streets, consider a deposito bagagli napoli service so that you can drop your luggage or bags off and take some of the weight off your back. This makes walking through the city much more pleasant.

Also read » 4 Types of Travel That You Absolutely MUST Explore

The post How to Get the Most Out of Your Trip to Naples appeared first on Complete Wellbeing.

Let’s explore why Santorini should be at the top of your travel list and provide practical advice on making your visit unforgettable.

The Allure of Santorini’s Unique Landscape

Santorini’s landscape is breathtaking. The island’s volcanic origins have shaped its geography, resulting in stunning caldera views and unique geological formations. White-washed buildings with blue domes contrast beautifully against the deep blue sea, creating a postcard-perfect scene.

Visitors can enjoy these views from various vantage points, including the picturesque villages of Fira and Oia. The sunsets in Santorini are legendary, attracting people from all over to witness the sky transform into a canvas of vibrant colors. For the best experience, find a spot early in one of the cliffside cafes or viewpoints to enjoy the sunset without the crowds.

Related » Splendid Switzerland: The Garden of the World

Rich Historical and Cultural Heritage

Santorini is rich in history and culture. Ancient ruins, traditional architecture, and fascinating museums offer a glimpse into the island’s past. The Akrotiri archaeological site, often called the Pompeii of the Aegean, provides insight into an ancient civilisation preserved by volcanic ash.

The ancient city of Thera, perched high on a mountain, offers stunning views and a journey through history. Local festivals celebrate traditional music and dance, immersing visitors in the island’s cultural heritage.

Exquisite Culinary Delights

Santorini’s cuisine is a delightful blend of fresh ingredients and traditional recipes. The island’s volcanic soil and coastal location contribute to the unique flavors of its dishes. Fresh seafood is abundant, with dishes like grilled octopus and calamari being local favorites. Vegetarians will enjoy fava beans, a local delicacy, and the famous Santorini tomatoes, which are smaller and sweeter than regular tomatoes.

Wine enthusiasts will appreciate the island’s wineries, which produce the distinct Assyrtiko wine. For an authentic culinary experience, visit a family-run taverna where you can taste homemade dishes and enjoy the warm hospitality of the locals.

Outdoor Activities and Adventure

For those who love outdoor activities, Santorini offers plenty of options. The famous hike from Fira to Oia takes you along scenic trails with breathtaking views of the caldera. This moderate hike takes about three hours and is best enjoyed early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat.

Hidden beaches and coves are perfect for exploration, offering a sense of adventure and discovery. A Santorini private tour on a boat provides an exclusive way to explore the island, allowing you to visit secluded spots and enjoy personalized service. You can even watch the gorgeous sunset from your boat. Watching it from the water, with the gentle rocking of the boat and the open sea around you, is a truly magical experience.

Vibrant Local Markets and Shopping

Shopping in Santorini is a delightful experience, with vibrant markets and charming boutiques offering unique treasures. Fira and Oia are the main shopping areas, where you can find everything from local crafts and jewellery to designer clothes and accessories.

Local markets also offer a variety of fresh produce, spices, and traditional products like olive oil and honey. When shopping, take your time to explore and chat with the shop owners, who are often happy to share stories about their products and provide recommendations.

Final Words

Santorini is a must-visit destination with its beauty, history, and vibrant culture. Make your next getaway extraordinary by discovering the charm of this enchanting Greek island.

The post Visit Breathtaking Santorini for Its Heritage, Food, Shopping, and More appeared first on Complete Wellbeing.

Consider this article as your travel health survival guide. Whether you’re a seasoned backpacker or a luxury resort enthusiast, these tips will help you stay healthy and happy, no matter where your adventures take you.

Understanding Travel Sickness

While the term “travel sickness” often conjures up images of queasy stomachs on winding roads, the reality is far broader. Getting sick while traveling can mean anything from catching a cold on a plane to battling a stomach bug in a foreign country. It’s a frustrating reality that can turn a dream vacation into a nightmare.

So, what are the culprits behind these travel-related illnesses? It’s a rogue’s gallery of germs, including:

Viruses

These are responsible for everything from the common cold to the dreaded norovirus, which can cause vomiting and diarrhea. They spread easily through the air, on surfaces, and in contaminated food or water.

Bacteria

While not all bacteria are bad, some can cause serious illnesses like traveler’s diarrhea, food poisoning, and respiratory infections. These microscopic menaces can lurk in undercooked food, untreated water, and even on everyday objects.

Parasites

These freeloaders can hitch a ride in contaminated food or water, causing a range of unpleasant symptoms, including stomach cramps, diarrhea, and fatigue.

Related » How to Maintain Your Diet While Traveling

Other Sickness Risks of Travel

Travel itself can make people more susceptible to sickness because of the following:

Crowded spaces

Airplanes, trains, and buses are breeding grounds for germs. It’s like a microbial mosh pit, and you’re the unsuspecting headliner.

Stress and fatigue

Travel can take a toll on your immune system, making you more vulnerable to infections.

Unfamiliar environments

Changes in climate, diet, and even the local bacteria can throw your body off balance.

Hygiene challenges

Let’s face it, not every bathroom on the planet meets our cleanliness standards.

Understanding these factors is the first step in safeguarding yourself from unwanted illnesses. Additionally, it’s important to consider travel vaccinations, which can offer essential protection against specific diseases prevalent in your destination. By knowing what you’re up against, you can take proactive measures to stay healthy and enjoy your travels to the fullest.

Pre-Travel Preparations

By prepping your body and packing strategically, you can give yourself a fighting chance against those pesky travel bugs. Here are a few suggestions:

Boost your defenses

Schedule a visit with your doctor. They can assess your health and recommend any necessary vaccinations or boosters based on your destination. This is especially crucial if you’re traveling to regions where certain diseases are more prevalent. Consider it an investment in your health and peace of mind.

Pack a travel first-aid kit

Imagine this: You’re in a remote village with a raging headache, and the nearest pharmacy is a donkey ride away. That’s where your trusty first-aid kit comes in. Here’s what to pack:

• Pain relievers: Over-the-counter options like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can be lifesavers for headaches, fever, or muscle aches.
• Antihistamines: These can help with allergies, which can flare up in new environments.
• Decongestants: Pack a nasal spray or oral decongestant to clear those airways.
• Diarrhea medication: Traveler’s diarrhea is a real thing. Be prepared with over-the-counter medication like loperamide or bismuth subsalicylate.
• Bandages and antiseptic: For minor cuts, scrapes, and blisters – because accidents happen, even on vacation.
• Prescription medications: If you take any regular medications, be sure to pack enough for your entire trip, plus a little extra just in case.

Remember, this is just a starting point. You can customize your kit based on your personal needs and destination.

Fuel up for the journey

A healthy diet is key to a strong immune system. In the days leading up to your trip, focus on nutrient-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Avoid processed junk and sugary treats, which can weaken your body’s defenses.

By taking these proactive steps before you embark on your adventure, you’ll be better equipped to handle any health curveballs that come your way.

Related » Expert Advice on How to Sleep Well During Travel 

On-The-Go Strategies

Here are some in-the-moment strategies to keep those travel bugs at bay:

Wash, wash, wash

Lather up with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially before meals and after using the restroom. If soap and water aren’t available, hand sanitizer is your trusty backup.

Drink lots of water

Aim to drink plenty of water throughout your trip, especially when flying, as airplane cabins are notoriously dry.

Wear a mask

Masks can be a powerful tool for protecting yourself from airborne illnesses. If you’re feeling under the weather, or if you’re in a crowded space like a plane or train, don’t hesitate to mask up.

Avoid germ hot spots

Airplane tray tables, hotel remote controls, and public transportation handrails are all potential germ magnets. After touching them, wipe them down with disinfecting wipes or use hand sanitizer.

Listen to your body

If you start feeling unwell, don’t ignore it. Rest, hydrate, and adjust your plans as needed. Pushing through exhaustion or discomfort can worsen your symptoms and prolong your recovery time.

By taking these simple steps, you’re giving yourself the best possible chance of staying healthy and enjoying your travels to the fullest.

Related » How to Maintain Your Morning Routine When Traveling

Final Thoughts

Your dream vacation shouldn’t be a breeding ground for unwanted illnesses. By arming yourself with knowledge, planning, and a few smart strategies, you can keep those travel bugs at bay. So go ahead, pack your bags with confidence, explore the world, and remember — a healthy traveler is a happy traveler.

The post Avoiding Travel Sickness: Expert Tips For Travelers appeared first on Complete Wellbeing.

From the moment I set foot in Morocco’s ancient city of Volubilis, I was captivated by its rich history and archaeological wonders. Led by the head of the excavation team, I embarked on a journey through the remnants of a mini city, learning about the ingenious structures and fascinating concepts from over 2000 years ago. One such revelation was the hammam, a personal and social sanctuary with rooms of varying temperatures. The ingenuity of our ancestors never ceases to amaze me.

The Therapeutic Ritual Called Hammam

Eager to experience the magic of the hammam myself, I indulged in not just one, but two hammam visits. The ritual began with hot water and black soap gently applied to my skin, followed by lying on a warm surface that embraced and enveloped me in its comforting heat.

As the scrubbing exfoliation commenced, I could not help but notice that the steam itself didn’t provide the massage I had anticipated. However, during my second hammam experience, something shifted. As I reclined on the warm surface, a sense of profound relaxation washed over me. It was as if my body and mind had found a serene harmony. For 45 minutes, I basked in the blissful combination of natural ingredients and the therapeutic power of the hammam.

A Lesson in Contrast

The pinnacle of the hammam experience arrived with the invigorating plunge into a cold-water tub. The sensation of immersing myself in icy water after the warm treatment was nothing short of rejuvenating. It awakened my senses and left me feeling refreshed, revitalized, and ready to embrace all that lay ahead.

This age-old practice taught me the importance of balancing extremes, of embracing contrasts to deeply appreciate the beauty of each moment. It was an experience that I can confidently say was the best I have ever felt.

Health and Happiness at an Amazigh Village

In the High Atlas Mountains of Morocco I had the privilege to visit an Amazigh village near the town of Ouirgane. The villagers welcomed us with open arms, treating us as the most cherished company they could hope for. Their genuine hospitality and infectious joy reminded me that having everything at our disposal is not always a blessing. Living in the moment and making the most of what we have can bring us true happiness.

At this village, a herbalist showed me all the leaves, roots, seeds, and flowers that he uses to treat the people of the village for a variety of minor (and sometimes major) ailments. Almost all the medicinal ingredients are farmed or foraged nearby, and they are consumed in a variety of ways — brewed into tea, mixed with a little water or oil, or simply cooked into various dishes. By incorporating these ingredients into their daily meals mindfully, the residents ensure they lead a healthy life.

Later in the day, at an afternoon tea laid out by an Amazigh family, I savored this taste of authenticity. Bread, olives, and homemade honey comprised the spread, with every element sourced from their natural surroundings. Not a single item came out of a packet. The family even had their own brick oven to bake the fresh bread that accompanied our tea.

Tasting Centuries of Wisdom

My visit to Morocco reinforced the importance of eating whole, seasonal, organic food with lots of herbs and spices. This can go a long way to giving our body what it needs to stay healthy.

The Moroccan knowledge of local flora and its various uses for food, oils, and medicine left me in awe. Centuries of wisdom have been passed down through generations, highlighting the effectiveness of natural herbs and spices. In one village, a farm-to-table operation is run by Chef Tarik, one of the country’s top culinary minds. Chef Tarik not only empowers the community but also fosters a deeper connection with the origin of food and the healing potential of locally sourced ingredients.

In Conclusion: A Reminder of What Matters

The cultural immersions of Morocco have left an indelible mark on my perception of the power of nature and its natural healing properties. From the ancient hammam to the wisdom of herbalists and the simplicity of Amazigh life, this journey has reminded me that as we continue to navigate modern life, let us not forget to seek solace and healing in nature, for it holds the key to our wellbeing and harmonious existence.

The post Hammam, Herbs, and More — Wellbeing Wisdom from Morocco appeared first on Complete Wellbeing.

Whether it’s for work or pleasure, though, you may find your enthusiasm is dimmed substantially if you have a fear of flying or feel anxious onboard a plane. It helps to know some steps you can follow to make your time in the air go more smoothly.

Top tips for nervous flyers

1. Familiarise yourself

For starters, you should feel less stressed about being up in the air if you take the time to get familiar with the plane you’re going to be in and its safety record, layout, and more. If you learn about all the routines involved in flying, such as the check-in and boarding procedures, safety information, the reality of turbulence, and so on, this should help quell your fears on the day.

As with anything, the more you do something, the more you understand it and can feel comfortable. As such, don’t keep yourself in a state of denial about having to fly. Instead, do your research and arm yourself with the knowledge to feel calmer.

2. Give yourself plenty of time

Another tip is to avoid rushing to the airport. Give yourself plenty of time to finish packing, travel to the airport, check-in, and find your gate on the day of departure, so you don’t have to stress even more. If you’re running late, your body will spike with adrenaline and cortisol, making you so much more on edge and making flying more challenging.

Allow much more time to get to the airport and get settled than you think you will need, so if any issues crop up along the way, you won’t have to panic about missing your flight. Also read » 18 travel mistakes that can ruin your foreign holiday.

3. Book or request an aisle seat

Depending on the airline you’re travelling with and the type of ticket you purchased, you may be able to pick or at least request a seat type of your choosing. If so, it’s wise to go for an aisle seat if you’re a nervous flyer. The reason for this is that if you find yourself struggling during the flight and need to have some quiet time to yourself in the bathroom or take a walk to get out some nerves, it’s much easier to do so when you’re already sitting on the aisle and don’t need to disturb anyone to get up.

4. Bring helpful distractions on board with you

Next, since one of the best ways to get through something difficult is to distract your mind, be sure to plan ahead and bring handy supplies onboard the plane. For instance, try to travel with a good friend or family member whom you can chat to during the flight, or bring a good book or magazine with you that you can immerse yourself in. You could spend time listening to relaxing music on your phone, listen to a favoured podcast, do some puzzles or colouring in, or even get some work done while the plane is in the air.

5. Get as much rest as possible

Another great way to make the time pass and have fewer issues with flying is to get as much rest as possible during the trip. If you can fall asleep, you’ll have less time to countdown for the plane’s arrival back on the ground. You can spray or dab some lavender on your neck pillow or body to help you relax as much as possible. Also, don’t forget to pack an eye mask so you can block out the light and distractions of other people when you’re trying to fall asleep on the plane. You may like to bring your own earbuds for noise-blocking purposes, too.

Other techniques to sooth nervous flyers

Looking for some other techniques to make flying less of an ordeal? Why not try some deep breathing and meditation out while waiting for the plane to take off and land and during the flight? You might also like to bring a comfort item that will make you feel more secure, and pay close attention to the flight attendants to remind yourself of how calm and unworried they are about being in the sky.

Also, avoid stimulants such as caffeine and having too much alcohol, as these substances can amp you up when you need to calm down instead. Lastly, it pays to invest in some counselling sessions with a paid professional so you can discuss where your fear of flying stems from and come up with some mental strategies for coping more effectively each time you need to get on a plane.

Flying may not be something you love to do anytime soon, but if you implement some of these tips, you should find that the experience becomes easier over time.

The post Top tips for nervous flyers appeared first on Complete Wellbeing.

Spring Water That Heals

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I am unable to drink the water that has been offered. One sip is enough to tell me the brackish, acid taste of iron it carries is not for me. But my photographer is already reaching out to refill his glass, and so is our guide.  Our guide bustles with health. She talks casually of skiing down the snow mountains that stand shadowing St Moritz; she walks with a stride that makes me wonder if she has spring on her feet. She often guides media and celebrities around, and a visit to the Forum Paracelsus  is almost mandatory. Perhaps the water is the reason, I muse, for her glowing health.

The water we are holding is from a small fountain inside the rather imposing building that now houses the springs. The  therapeutic values of these springs were first discovered and put to use around 1400 years BC. By the Middle Ages, word of the healing springs, reached beyond St Moritz, and Pope Leo X as well as the naturopath Paracelsus, after whom the bath is currently named, helped bolster its reputation further. Paracelsus combined chemical medicine and empirical, psychological healing to treat a number of maladies without resorting to surgery. The waters of St Moritz were perfect for putting his theory, of letting Nature heal, to effective use.

St Mauritius fountain

The taste of the water lingers as I wander through the large rooms and take in the St Mauritius Fountain, a large but decrepit fountain that dates back to the Bronze Age, embalmed behind a glass window. Touch screens and audio panels tell me of the curative properties of the waters, as well as share insights about the history. A large plaque reads out the composition of the water I have drunk. In brief, drinking it should help my stomach and intestines, make my blood redder, open blocked ducts and glands. It also prevents migraines, alleviates ear problems and clears mucus slime.

The waters have helped many chronic sufferers who come to stay at the town’s posh hotels to take therapeutic baths, and to drink the water. But I feel quite well, and I am glad I need not sip any more of it.

More healing waters in the Frankfurt Rhine region

Like St Moritz in Switzerland, other places in Europe are blessed with healing waters. None more blessed than Germany, perhaps. In fact, the Frankfurt Rhine-Main Region boasts of nine such towns with waters that cure a variety of illnesses. I visit two. The quaint and quiet town of Wiesbaden is one of them. Centuries ago, Wiesbaden was blessed with 26 hot springs, each of which was loaded with the fount of wellness. The legend goes that when the Romans first set up forts in Mainz, and crossed the Rhine on horses, they realised the horses loved to bathe in the warm floodplains of the river. Successful investigation into this phenomenon resulted in the discovery of the hidden hot springs, some hot enough to roast meat, others just warm enough to offer comfort on cold nights. Wies [ the fields ] and baden [bath] where the Romans enjoyed bathing 2000 years ago, was thus christened. Wiesbaden also contributed to fashion. The pink deposits were used by Roman women to add colour to their hair!

The 26 hot springs continued to garner attention, and soon Europe was paying homage to its healing powers. By 1370, 16 bath houses were counted. In 1800, the city boasted 23 bath houses. By 1900, Wiesbaden, a population of 86,100, would welcome 126,000 visitors every year. Among them were names like Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, Fyodor Dostoevsky, Richard Wagner, Johannes Brahms, and Henrik Pontoppidan.

Today, only 17 springs still flow. And at the start of the reconstructed old town that also hosts the hottest shopping centre with shops lining the streets and small eateries dotting the periphery, the old hot spring fountain stands, a perpetual fount of healing water. Famed for its ability to cure orthopaedic and rheumatic ailments, it welcomes any one who cannot afford the more expensive treatments in the clinics and hotel spas to collect the water and help alleviate their aches. For the rest, a variety of specialists and clinics offer treatment options using the spring waters, and spas like the Kaiser-Friedrich and the Aukammtal thermal baths offer visitors the chance to relax and recuperate.

Bad Homburg, a taste of luxury

On to the picturesque town of Bad Homburg, a 20-minute train ride from Frankfurt. Here‘s where the rich live, and the town breathes an air of luxury, right from the newly done windows at the railway station, to the flowering avenues and the glistening dome of the Russian church in the distance.

This is the town where the first casino was built. The first spa building followed, and the industry grew with the discovery of the Elisabethenbrunnen [Brunnen is German for “well”] in 1834. Two brothers built the casino, and were so successful in their enterprise that they later took over the Monte Carlo casino. When in 1860, the railway was born in its first avatar, connecting Bad Homburg to Frankfurt, the casino and the spas started drawing clients from all over, including rich Russians.

We seek a moment’s rest from the long hours of exploratory walking, and enter a beautiful church, restored to glory after it was ruined in the war. Inside between an old gracious statue of the Virgin Mary, and a modern sweeping version of Our Lady, the pews glisten emptily in the candle light. At the far end, two musicians are rehearsing. Brisk, happy music. It is heartwarming, especially in the evening cold. There are many therapies Bad Homburg has to offer, I think as we leave. Music too, among them.

The post Spring water that heals appeared first on Complete Wellbeing.

Belfast - the vibrant capital of Northern Ireland

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Europe, they say, was made for summer. Glorious June afternoons spent picnicking at the park, sunny August mornings foraging for wild strawberries along the lavender-strewn meadow paths—all montages of a sun-worshipper’s dream come true. But I have amassed more than enough evidence from my recent winter trip to Ireland to debunk the claim that summer is the only season [and reason!] to see this continent shine at its brightest. And Belfast, the tiny and compact capital city of Northern Ireland seems to have provided me with plenty of examples…

Now, almost every big city the world over lays claim to having at least one Irish pub. Places where the levels of bonhomie and raucous revelry reach a frenzied pitch as the night progresses on with plenty of music and dancing thrown in for good measure. Places where the empty pint glasses of beer lined up in front of a patron begin to outnumber the hours in a day. But nothing prepares you for an Irish pub experience in Ireland. A ritual that is a great orientation to a land that typifies the clichéd truism—‘live for the day!’

And so, like most other travellers to the Emerald Isle of Northern Ireland, where exaggerated drunken tales of leprechauns and other mysterious creatures of lore are exchanged over a pint of Guinness Beer, I began my tryst with all things Irish at one of Belfast’s most popular pubs one crisp Friday evening in late November. The Duke of York Pub, nestled along a narrow cobbled alleyway in the historic Half Bap area, is one veritable institution. Here, locals roll up their sleeves after a hard week’s work and settle down on a bar stool as they nurse their drinks, often catching glimpses of themselves in the many weather-beaten mirrors that line the walls of this historic pub while basking in the warmth of the fireplace. Settling for a shot of Jameson whiskey-laced Irish Coffee, I started to understand why Ireland truly is one of the world’s friendliest of places, where strangers turn friends the minute they clink glasses with you saying “Sláinte”—the Irish word for cheers, as they urge you to join them on the dance floor, while the local folk band belts out one lilting Celtic ditty after another.

The next day, thanks to a slight drizzle that had cast its gloomy web all over the city, my first morning in Belfast was spent indoors—at the wonderfully futuristic-looking glass-n-steel Titanic Belfast museum in the city’s historic Titanic Quarter. Housed in the erstwhile Harland & Wolff shipyard, where the ill-fated RMS Titanic was constructed, the year-and-a-half old Titanic Belfast contains more than 130,000 sq ft of floor space, with a very interesting rollercoaster-like ride taking guests throughout the building stages of the aquatic leviathan. Also in the museum complex is the fully restored SS Nomadic—the tender ship not just to Titanic, but also its sister ship, the RMS Olympic—that today sits in a dry dock; inviting visitors like me to come and be a part of history.

Another place that gives you a blast from the past is the Ulster Folk & Transport Museum located in Cultra, just 15 minutes out of Belfast’s city centre by car. The folk museum is a collection of old restored cottages, farms, schools and shops manned by guides dressed in period costumes who give you lessons in the way of life from 100 years ago as you step back in time. But being an avid transportation fan, I couldn’t get enough of the Transport Museum where visitors are encouraged to climb on and off majestic steam locomotives or ogle at the electric trams, motorbikes, fire-engines and vintage cars, including the DeLorean sports car that was made in Belfast and then went on to ‘star’ in the Back To The Future films franchise.

Back in the now-sunny city centre, a pre-lunch walk around the Cathedral Quarter helped build up an appetite for the cocktail-lubricated lunch my local Belfastian friends had promised to treat me to, at the trendy Berts Jazz Bar. But more on that later… Surrounding Belfast’s magnificent St. Anne’s Cathedral, the Cathedral Quarter has experienced two decades of regeneration and growth to emerge as a dynamic cultural hub in the city centre. This quarter is home to the Custom House Square [Belfast’s largest outdoor venue] Cotton Court, Writer’s Square, Cathedral Gardens and the recently launched Saint Anne’s Square that is home to the brand new MAC [Metropolitan Arts Centre] that opened its doors in the Cathedral Quarter in 2012.

Being a Saturday, the weekend Victorian St. George’s Market on May Street was next on my agenda to partake in all its foodie glory. With over 150 stalls, selling everything from traditional Northern Irish fare like Soda Bread, Belfast Bap and Ulster Fries to Indian curries and cheese from local dairies, this market is THE place to get a bit of culinary culture into your trip. It also has a section selling jewellery, paintings and other touristy tat at quite affordable prices.

With hunger pangs kicking in with the might of a Manchester United striker on a rampage, I trotted off to the Merchant Hotel whose Berts Jazz Bar is known for its awesome nosh and tipples. To the strains of a one-man band I indulged on a perfectly medium rare Sirloin Steak served with Potato Bread and Irish Blood Sausage [that wasn’t as bad at all as it sounds!] along with endless rounds of Bloody Marys and Moscow Mules and an Irish Cream Crème Brûlée to top it all off with. Ah pure, undiluted bliss that!

By the time we were done with lunch, a light powder coating of snow had begun to embellish everything in sight, turning them into almost edible seeming confections. One such snow-blanketed wonder was the glass dome of the Palm House at the Botanic Gardens in the south end of the city. Spread over 28 acres, the gardens were designed by Sir Charles Lanyon and completed in 1840. Serving as a quiet sanctuary and an apt place to commune with nature, the Botanical Gardens channels ‘winter wonderland’ to the hilt with its orchids and other flowers covered in sparkly frost!

Equally worthy of the sobriquet of ‘winter wonderland’ is Belfast’s stunning City Hall on Donegall Square that is decked out in all its ‘Christmasy’ finery all through winter with fairy lights, buntings and other glittering baubles. The Christmas market that it hosts every year spread over its grounds is a true treat for all the senses with its stalls dispensing a diverse range of festive goodies like spicy mulled wine, fudge, roasted chestnuts and even reindeer sausages and elk burgers for the more adventurous eaters like yours truly.

And that’s just where and how I ended my winter weekend in Belfast—a city where the party never ends. Come rain or sunshine… err, I mean snowfall!

The post A perfect winter break in Belfast appeared first on Complete Wellbeing.

The right day

Long weekends spell family holidays, but for a road trip you probably want to avoid long weekends. Reason being, traffic snarls. Being stranded in serpentine traffic takes away all the fun of a road trip and will be a major turn off for the person driving. If you still choose a public holiday or long weekend then begin your drive early in the morning. You’ll have to forfeit some sleep but if you’re lucky, you may catch the rising sun.

Identify pit stops

When calculating travel hours, allot for sufficient break time. If there are elderly or children travelling with you then you may need to take more frequent breaks. You need not always halt for a washroom or restaurant break. Just halt to soak in the scenery and stretch yourself for a few minutes. Decide in advance if you will be making any stop overs for the night. If yes, make advance bookings for the same. Everyone in the group may have different thresholds for how long they can endure a car drive. Check with each passenger in advance so that there are no surprises en route.

Clothing

Roads trips, on occasion, take you through different climatic conditions. Starting from the plains you may be headed out to the hills or you may hit rain on the way. Therefore knowing your route is important. Wear comfortable clothes that can be layered. Pack in a manner that makes weather appropriate protection easily accessible.

Food and first aid

If you are leaving in the wee hours of dawn then breakfast at restaurants may not be available yet. Also, since you want to navigate out of the city before the peak hour traffic starts, you have no time to waste. Therefore keep snacks and water handy. When packing the snacks, divide and pack so that passengers in the front seats don’t have to reach back for food. The last thing you need is food spilling in your vehicle. A first aid kit in the vehicle has to include salves and bandages for injuries, medicines for heat stroke, upset stomach, motion sickness and headaches. Keep a garbage bag in the car for any waste that needs to be disposed. Chocolate wrappers and toll receipts do amount to a lot of trash.

Packing 

A few must have are spare money, a notebook, pen, flashlight, toilet roll, medicine kit, sunglasses, power bank or USB cord, reading glasses, travel pillow, travel mug, hand sanitizer or wet wipes and a swiss army knife. These items should be easily accessible.

Vehicle check

Atleast a week before your trip get your vehicle serviced. Check the engine oil, coolants, windshield wiper liquid, lights and indicator. While on the trip, check the tyre pressure every morning before heading out. Do carry spares like headlight and indicator bulbs.

Music

What’s a road trip without good music? Don’t forget to take along a collection of everyone’s favourite music copied on a pen drive. You don’t want to be only listening to your favourite music at the cost of boring the other passengers.

Maps

Check your route before your start and share the same with your co-driver. This helps to avoid any confusion later and you can avoid high traffic zones. Google maps are a boon but not 100% reliable. Rather than going around in circles just ask people for directions. That will not just ensure you are on the right path but is also an opening gambit to a conversation with a stranger.

Children

Road trips with children require some extra planning. If you do not want to hear ‘are we there yet’ for the nth time it is important to keep the children engaged. You could submerge them in electronic games, however a road trip is also an opportunity to engage their curiosity and knowledge. Inform them in advance about the amount of time they will be spending in the car and encourage them to plan games and other activities.

Groups 

A group road trip with multiple vehicles has a few more challenges. Driving at the same pace and looking out for each other is tiring and a distraction too. So it would be best to decide on way-points along the route where everyone can catch-up. Also, a communications person should be nominated to ensure everyone gets the required message and sends the necessary response.

Share responsibility

At the outset, decide who else will be sharing the driving responsibility and when your next change will be. One passenger [whoever is best at it] can be responsible for reading maps and giving directions. Before and during the trip, the car will need cleaning. You could take turns to clean the car to make sure the job is done and no one person gets all the load.

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Holidaying with your family [spouse and children] and parents provides a break from the stage on which you all relate to each other.

The varying ages in the group is a challenge as needs differ and have to be catered to. Not to mention the dynamics of relationships between your spouse and parents, children and your parents and so on. Given the challenges one would do well to carry an open mind and a plan.

Take along books, games/toys

Sightseeing is one way of spending time together on holidays. Spending time with the family could also involve indolently reading a book or solving puzzles or playing cards or a board games. Board games are a good way for everyone to be together. Another reason for getting these along is keeping your child engaged during the journey.

Try independence for a change

Get your children to participate in the holiday planning and then get them to pack their clothes and be responsible for their luggage. In fact if they are old enough they could also lend a hand to the grandparents with their packing. Such tasks provide children with opportunities for various kinds of decision making and planning which will benefit them in the long run. Get your children to read up about the place before the holiday. They could then serve as your informal tour guides for which you could give them some additional pocket money.

Record memories

Delegate the task of recording holidays to your children. Ensure it is not restricted to selfies and photos only. Get your children to write about what they experience through prose and poetry. If they are good at sketching, take along sketching material and let the kids loose. To ensure this happens, children have to be told of their responsibilities in advance and a time needs to be allocated for this during the holiday.

Avoid the normal

Memories are created when you do something new. Don’t let yourself or the rest of your entourage get sucked into the narrow confines of what the cellphone and other electronic gadgets provide. Question the impulse to use social media to update the world of your activities and the need to be briefed on what the world is up to. Even if the idea is to spend time by the pool or at the beach, avoid playing your favourite video game and instead initiate a conversation, people watch, read or just do nothing.

Let the grand kids and grandparents bond

If your children are old enough and the grandparents game, find activities that they can do together. This would give you and your spouse ‘alone time’ while the grandparents and grand kids enjoy each others company.

Carry snacks and basic first aid

Travelling does make one hungry and if you don’t want your outings to be interrupted by frequent breaks for stopovers to eat then carry enough snacks for everyone. And make sure to take everyone’s choices into consideration. Travel also gives ample scope for minor injuries. Young children and teenagers are prone to mini accidents so it is best to be prepared for such occasions. Also do ensure that they have had their tetanus shots.

Patience is key

Being a parent makes one used to plans being constantly changed and holidays are no exception. Mood swings and injuries don’t take a break either. Therefore keep your plans open ended and carry a large dose of patience with you. The key is for all to remember that this moment has been carved out specially for everyone. This can only be communicated successfully if you are patient and respond instead of reacting to situations.

Seneca said ‘Travel and change of place impart new vigour to the mind.’ It not only does that, but gives ample scope to build on relationships taken for granted as you deal with the everyday. Taking care of the basic essentials gives you the freedom to spend quality time with those you love and care for.

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Why bother to holiday with the parents-in-law

Having said that, it does not mean that your parents and you, living in separate universes, do not meet. It is a given that you and your spouse will create opportunities to meet the parents. If you are staying in the same city as the parents then celebrations, weekends, dining-out, movies are all occasions to strengthen bonds and show that out-of-sight is not out of mind. However, if you all are staying in different cities then the occasions are a few and the time spent short and precious.

Holidaying with your spouse and the folks is an opportunity to bring the two universes together and revel in the occasion. However, to ensure that the universes do not cataclysmically disintegrate [yes I am being dramatic] during this moment in time you need to keep a few things in mind.

Your spouse and you are a team

This needs to be stated at the outset to ensure that you do not spend too much time with your folks at the cost of your spouse and your spouse does not ignore your folks to your chagrin and their discomfort. As a unit you not only have each others backs but work together to make this outing for the parents an enjoyable and memorable one. As a team, work not only reduces but there is appreciation for what the other brings to the moment.

Discuss and find common interests

Discussing holiday plans with your spouse and parents provides more things to do as interests, not known till then, may align. Thus the holiday entourage can split into smaller groups ensuring others are not forced to do things they are not interested in. Common interests could become a corner stone to improve interpersonal relationships.

Spousal spats should not be public

Spousal infractions are a given and there is no right time for one. However, when holidaying with your parents it would be best to let go in order to avoid these tiffs. Such fights tend to weaken the holiday mood and unnecessarily give your parents a reason to worry.

Spend time with the folks

You and your spouse should independently spend some time with the parents. This is a chance for them to bring you upto speed on how they are enjoying the holiday.

Include your spouse during reminiscing sessions

Unwinding during holidays can bring back a flood of family memories. These discussions unfortunately may keep out the spouse. These are occasions to bring your spouse upto date on family history and share your memories. It is also an occasion for your spouse to see your parents in a different light – as young people far removed from who they are now.

Do something special with your spouse

Just because your parents are along does not mean that you cannot plan something with your spouse. Remember the holiday is as much about bonding with the parents as it is about the spouse. Plan your holiday to include time just for the two of you. Your spouse will love it, you will enjoy it and your parents may just get the time they wanted but were unwilling to ask for.

When holidaying with both set of parents

Holidaying with both set of parents can be like juggling with knives. However, it need not be so if you are mindful of the above and the following points:

Do not spend time on your parents only

It is not surprising if you wish to show more concern and make more effort for your parents. After all being their child you want to make their holiday special. It may also be that you do not get along with your in-laws. On the other hand you may want to do more for the in-laws because it makes your spouse happy or just because you like them. Whatever may be the case it may lead to some heartburn for the other party. Therefore it is important that your spouse and you communicate as a team to ensure both sets of parents are given equal attention.

Stop any attempts at family competitions

Attempts to stand out are natural. Parents would like to believe that they and their children are special, they would like to crow about success, sacrifices and unique experiences. Sometimes this is done unconsciously. However, any form of one-upmanship must be nipped in the bud. What matters now is that your spouse thinks you are special and that the two of you together live through the successes and sacrifices that knock on your door.

Do not interfere in a spat between your spouse and his/her parent

Adults will always be seen as children by their parents. The conundrum is that parents love to give advice and also seek counsel from their grownup children. So even on such vacations there will be occasions for child-parent tiffs. Though you may want to douse this flareup and or support your spouse, do not. Unless called to intervene, it is best to let the spat die a natural death and then talk to your spouse and parents separately.

Find occasions for the two sets of in-laws to do things together

In other words find time for yourself and your spouse to do things together. Such vacations are also about your fledgling family memories that you two create. In the planning stage you could suggest things that the two sets of parents can do together whilst clearly indicating that you would like to spend some alone time with your spouse.

Parent child interaction differ from family to family. These differences are in your face when you and your spouse together vacation with your parents. The expectations of your parents and those of your in-laws need to be balanced against those of your relationship with your spouse. In conclusion one must remember what Henry Miller said, ‘One’s destination is never a place, but always a new way of seeing things.’ which can extend to holidays with your spouse and parents.

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