Search Results for “santorini” – Page 2 – Purple Travel Official Blog

Most blissful islands worldwide

Jun 15 2015

Madeira, Portugal

Porto Santo by night

Once again windy Madeira was named as one of the best islands in the world! The island is an archipelago of Portuguese islands in the Atlantic Ocean. Funchal is the capital of Madeira settled in the 15th century. The greatest part of the island is an imposing botanical garden full of levadas, perfect for hiking trails. To explore its natural beauty you should surely visit the nearby villages, maintaining its charm. Gaze in wonder through mountain climbing to the summit of Pico Ruivo, you will feel like walking in heaven, as you revel in the eminent panoramic views of solidified lava…

Madeira’s Nothern Wonders: Volcanically natural pools

The Nothern road winds down through an amazing landscape of wild forests and lush valleys where you can find the famed terraced vineyards in Levada do Norte. Last but not least, don’t forget to unwind over a wine tasting at Pereira D’Oliveira. Porto Santo morphs into a party island on summer time, not to mention, the natural lava pools at Porto Moniz!

Santorini, Cyclades, Greece

Endless deep blue…Soaking in the Aegean Sea

Looking for a mythical experience? The island of charm, ‘’immortalized’’ by famous poets, thanks to its coloured houses carved into cliffs and the most mesmerizing sunsets like an artist’s palette! A unique aura that overwhelms all senses with amazing views of the caldera creates wild landscape as you are strolling along Nea Kameni’s volcano. If you are a fearful adventurer, you can try scuba-diving into the thermal waters forming a volcanic spa at Palia Kameni or challenge yourself walking along the Oia’s path where an iridescent landscape await you on the dusk time.

If you are a history lover, take a visit at the ‘’Pompeian City of Aegean’’, the prehistoric Akrotiri and the museum of Prehistoric Thera at Fira. Of course, Santorini’s local specialties are among the most popular, as the greatest chefs blend traditional twist with modern gastronomy making Santorini one of the best culinary destinations! As, for the sunbathers there are unique beaches with a colors of red, black, white and red: Perissa, Perivolos, Kamari, Kokkini and Aspri Paralia (Red & White Beach).

Mauritius, Indian Ocean, Africa

Chillin’ with refreshing coconut drinks on the beach

One of the most favored tropical paradise in the world, Port Louis, the capital of Mauritius, is a bustling port with a modernized waterfront! Its beautiful well-known resorts, such as the Mont Choisy, Trou-aux-Biches and the Flic en Flac, perfect choice for scuba-divers or Rivière Noire for fishing. Mauritius’ crystal blue waters, endless sandy beaches and tropical climate, is an ideal go-to destination for honeymoons and jet setters too! Except for snorkeling and coconut refreshing cocktails there is much more to do on this island with its buzzing nightlife and rich culture. Moreover, there are some things surely not to miss: Mahebourg market – the island’s traditional bazzar, Mauritius is also home to world’s golf lovers, Chamarel Colored Earths & Waterfalls, Sporting enthusiasts: Have a daytrip at Ille aux Cerfs, Admire flora & fauna of Indian Ocean at Mauritius Aquarium or take a visit at Eureka delving into Mauritius’ colonial past.

Bali, Indonesia

Door of Heaven

Bali, the Indonesian paradise, feels like a earthly heaven with its incomparable beauty…. Bali is part of the Coral Triangle, known for its great diversity of marine species. Soak up the sun or dive along the amazing wreck of a WWII war ship! At artistic Ubud, you can see a cultural local dance or if you need some revival moments, invigorate mind & body in a yoga class. The eclectic Balinese tradition will get you hooked during your stay and it is mainly what sets this island apart from other tropical destinations. Most tourists visit also the island for its stunning ancient and nature wonders, active volcanoes and lush wild jungles!

Wild nature comes alive…

Can’t miss – Facilities & Landmarks

What Not to Miss in Bali
Shopping at Seminyak & dining at Nasi Ayam Kedewatan restaurant
Explore Kuta – Amed & Lovina beaches
Dive off Pemuteran & Surfing at Medewi
Visit Puri Lukisan museum & Monkey Sanctuary

Ancient temples leaves you speechless

Top 30 Restaurants in Greece

May 04 2015

Images via @athinorama

Wondering what’s the best place to eat during your holidays in Greece? We are more than excited to present you the highlights of the most stunning Greek gastronomy ceremony, ”Golden Chef’s Hat”, held in Athens on Monday April 20th in the Ballroom of the hotel “Grande Bretagne”. Foreign journalists and ministers, as well as Greek tourism professionals shared their excitement for culinary experiences celebrating the best restaurants in Greece. As gastronomy is amongst the most authentic cultural elements of Greece, the ”Golden Chef’s Hat” awards, for the first time in 22 years, brought not one but two restaurants to the top of the Greek culinary scene. Read More

Purple 10: Infinity Pools in Europe

Oct 09 2014

1. Take a look at this stunning infinity edge pool at Hotel Caruso Ravello on the Amalfi Coast in Italy

Jan 29 2014

Treat him or her to a fantastic Valentine’s holiday with Purple Travel. We’ve got 10 of Europe’s most romantic cities for all types of couples. If It’s history that you’re mad about, incredible hotel rooms that you won’t leave for days on end or a sunshine getaway where you can relax hand in hand on a secluded beach, you’ll love our list of Europe’s most romantic cities. We threw the question out on Google + and Facebook and got some great responses. As always, anything we’ve missed, let us know in comment and already decided where you want to go on your next city break? Call Purple Travel on 02079939228 for low cost flights and hotels Europe’s Most Romantic Cities…

#1 Dazzlingly beautiful Italy’s Liguria Coast is filled with cost tucked-away romantic guesthouses and hotels. Sometimes known as the Bay of fairy tales the ancient ruins and old castles provide a stunning backdrop to sunset dinners on a terrace and balmy evenings walking hand in hand. Choose from ocean view hotels with high ceilings and don’t forget to visit the cocktail bars.

#2 Paris is perfect for traditional romantics. An obvious choice but that’s because it’s so good! We’re talking freshly baked croissants for breakfast in bread, the views from the top of the Eiffel Tower and long meals accompanied by the best red wine. Paris is filled with amazing hotels so you can treat him or her to a Valentine’s they’ll never forget.

#3 Just a couple of hours away, Rome is a hot choice for history and art lovers for couples who want to discover the Sistine Chapel or the Coliseum together. Stay in the The wide streets and incredible selection of restaurants make this one of Europe’s most romantic cities.

#4 It might not be the first city that pops into your head, but Copenhagen in Denmark makes a gorgeous romantic weekend away. The city renowned for its links to fairy tale writer Hans Chrsitan Andersen is a jusst 90 minutes from the UK. Stop for hot chocolates and a heart shaped cake in one of the city’s famous cafes after a visit to the Winter Garden, the Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek. In the evening cinema is one of the most popular things to do in Copenhagen and it’s easy to see why. Cinemas like the Empire and Falkoner have specially made seats just for two. Copenhagen image via @ Visit Denmark

#5 One of the most popular cities in Europe right now the Portuguese capital has it all. Lively Lisbon is all cobblestone streets, cosy cafes and bars and incredible hotels. All of those overlooked by an ancient castle. It’s hard to top Lisbon for most romantic cities. Lisbon image via @ Luca Sartoni

#6 The magical kingdoms in Game of Thrones might be familiar when you set foot in Dubrovnik. The hazy sun soaked pottery tiled roofs and shiny flagstoned streets are not only beautiful, but world-famous now too thanks to the filming of the George RR Martin books. The city’s old walls doubles as Kings Landing and the view from the top shows off Blackwater Bay. Dubrovnik is top of the romance charts as far as we are concerned. Dubrovnik via @ Branimal!

#7 Venice. A long established romantic hot spot, Barbara Hopley on our Google + page shared her thoughts about her favourite romantic city in Europe: “Venice definitely, a nice dinner then a Gondola ride – perfect! Highly recommend, I love Venice.”

#8 A stunningly well-preserved city, Prague is made for walking around hand in hand with the one you love. A sea of spires and statues awaits you by day, while at night, the famous Prague nightlife is sure to impress any party-loving couple. Sunset dinner in Prague via @ MadebyMark

#9 Holidays in Marrakech are made up of a couple of essentials: discovering the sights and sounds of the Medina, testing out your shisha smoking skills, eating incredible local food and maybe a bit of sunbathing thrown in. Marrakech couples city breaks are all about adventure and who better to share that with than your other half.

#10 Santorini has all the elements for the perfect couple’s holiday. Those incredible sunsets, the winding white washed streets where it feels like it’s just the two of you alone in the world. Book a room with a sea view and your own private swimming pool, just don’t blame us if you never want to leave.

Have something special in mind for Valentine’s Day? Call the expert travel team at Purple Travel on 02079939228 and surprise the one you love this year.

Holidays: The Most Amazing Swimming Pools In The World

Jul 09 2013

Imagine time spent in one of these amazing swimming pools, from scary experiences with crocs, luxurious infinity pools in Italy to natural lagoons in Iceland:

Cage of Death, Crocosaurus Cove, Australia

Blue Lagoon, Iceland via @ Daveness_98

Devil’s Pool, Victoria Falls

El Ganzo, Mexico
Elounda Gulf Villas Crete
Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti, Tanzania
Hotel Caruso, Italy

Jade Mountain, St Lucia

Mardan Palace, Antalya, TurkeyMarina Bay Sands, Singapore

Perivolos, Santorini, Greece

San Alfonso del Mar, Chile (The Biggest Swimming Pool in the World!)

The Joule Hotel, Dallas, Texas

Ubud Hanging Gardens, Bali

Holidays in Greece: Amazing Sunrises

Jul 02 2013

Holidays in Greece are often about the sunsets over the caldera of Santorini, although it doesn’t really get a look in, we’re rooting for the underdog and think that sunrise is just as good a time to be out in the world as sunset, in fact it’s even more magical. And there is no better place to escape the crowds, soak up the dusky glow of the sun as it faces the day and take an early morning dip than in one of the beautiful Greek islands. Discover the majesty of sunrise in Greece this year.

Sunrise over Elounda Bay in Crete

Image via @ PICrerar

Purple Tips: best beach bars in Greece

May 29 2013

Along with the perfect, well kept, golden sandy beaches, sparkling, crystal clear warm waters and buckets of sunshine, Greece is famous for its beach bars. Make it a mega summer with our top 5 best beach bars in Greece. Sit back, relax, grab a cocktail and enjoy!

Image via @ anjči

THEROS WAVE BAR, Santorini
On the exclusive Eros beach in Santorini, you’ll find the exotic Theros Wave Bar. Made entirely of wood and right on the beach, there are plenty of loungers, transparent warm waters, and excellent service, it’s a relaxed choice for day or night to enjoy a refreshing mojito.

Image via @ Diego Cosenza

SUPER PARADISE, Mykonos
Just outside Mykonos Town, Super Paradise is where to see and be seen. It’s one of the most alternative beach bars on the island. It’s found in a beautiful bay, is nude friendly, and has excellent fresh cocktails. They say it best: “Super Paradise is for almost everyone who wants to have fun in the sun amidst an eclectic crowd, with or without your clothes.”

Image via @ banana beach bar

BANANA BEACH BAR, Skiathos
Loud music, great cocktails, a stunning beach; you’d be hard pushed to find a better beach bar on Skiathos than Banana. Go with your mates to get your night out started, or with your other half to soak up a dreamy sunset.

UPDATE: It is believed that Banana Beach Bar might be closed now but there are other bars on Banana Beach so don’t worry if you go we are sure you will find an excellent place!

Image via @ sundayfundays

ALOHA BAR, Corfu
One of Corfu’s trendiest venues, the Aloha Bar packs them in all day and all night. The sun, sea and sand is the perfect combination for really letting loose on holiday and the cocktails are to die for.

Image via @ Nick Papakyriazis

BEACH BAR MANASSU, Sithonia-Halkidiki
The beaches in Halkidiki are like a secret that only Greeks know about. They are practically perfect, and just because it’s not an island does not mean you should stay away. The Beach Bar Manassu is a great choice. It is renovated every year to give customers a new experience every time. Its unique architecture, great service and delicious cocktails make it a must-see on any holiday.

Greece Holidays

Mar 19 2013

There’s never been a better time to go on holidays to the beautiful, historic and cultural delight that is Greece. Whether it’s a trip to the ancient acropolis in Athens, the sun drenched romance of Santorini or the epic water sports fun you can find in Paros, Greece should be your top choice for a summer holiday. And here’s why…

Beach: You’re looking for one of those utterly relaxing holidays, with long stretches of perfect sandy beaches, sparkling blue water that’s the perfect temperature and secluded coves to relax in? Then head for Zakynthos, or Zante as its known. Home to some of the best beaches in the whole country, even the locals will suggest it. Keep an eye out for the famous Shipwreck beach, which covers postcards sent all over the world.

Party: Paradise Beach in Mykonos is where the beautiful people mingle, where you’ll dance your sandals off and where you’ll watch the sun come up and go down as music fills the air. Grab your glad rags and make sure you spend a few days topping up that tan, before you hit the party capital of the island.

Relax: Paros and its little neighbor Antiparos are perfect for long lazy days in the sunshine. Grab a water taxi and head for one of the breathtaking sandy beaches, where you’ll find a little taverna, a couple of other lazy bones, loungers and the perfect spot under the hot Greek sunshine.

With the kids: Head for Crete. The largest Greek island is a perfect kid’s paradise. There are miles of beaches, loads of restaurants and eateries, bucket loads of water parks, excellent child friendly hotels and amazing facilities across the whole island.

Couples Greece holidays: Without a doubt, the best choice for couples looking for Greece holidays is Santorini. The romance is palpable in the air, from the moment you set foot on this splendid island. There are sugar cubed houses, secluded vineyards, sparkling blue waters and incredible views. Kamari and Perissa are beautiful Greece holiday resorts and ideal for couples.

Have you got any other suggestions for Greek beach getaways? If you want to go on Greece holidays this year, talk to Purple Travel now and save.

Digital detox holidays

Feb 13 2013

Do you check Facebook before you even get dressed in the morning? Dn’t worry, you can tell us. Do you need to kick your Twitter habit? Or simply relax from Reddit? Are you naked without your smartphone? You need a digital detox!

We’re guessing the thought of going offline for a few days is a little scary, but hear us out. With attention spans dropping and internet addiction on the rise, a tech free holiday is meant to inspire, re-energize and improve your mood. If nothing else, it will at least make you feel popular when you return to a bunch of emails and status updates.

Unplug your computer and head for a little tech free treat, with our top 7 digital detox holidays.

Off the grid weekends in the USA
These Digital Detox guys are spearheading the trend, they think of everything. No watches, computers, phones; devices of any kind are checked from the arrival. This retreat is about recharging your batteries, but not the online kind. Digital Detox offers yoga, meditation, writing workshops (using a pen and paper!) a completely tranquil environment along with healthy simply food. It makes an ideal place to unwind and get inspired.

Distance to wi-fi: it’s not that far, but it’s under lock and key until the retreat ends.

Elephant watching in Kenya
You’re in the middle of the desert, silently watching out for an elephant, a once in a lifetime opportunity, when suddenly a phone interrupts everything and scares Nelly and everything in a 3 mile radius away. If there was a place on earth where phones should be banned, it must be at the Elephant Watch Safari Camp. You don’t want to be *that* person, do you?

Distance to wi-fi: at least a couple of miles. Don’t bother lugging that laptop.

Digital Detox in the Caribbean
The paradise like islands of St Vincent and the Grenadines in the Caribbean are serious about the digital detox, asking guests to completely surrender all their tech gadgets on arrival. Hotels around the islands have no TVs, while you’ll be frowned on if you whip out your phone on the beach. It even provides pre-holiday advice on how to survive without technology.
Nearest wi-fi: you will find some access, but your neighbours won’t be impressed.

Enjoy the high life in Morocco
High up in the exquisite Atlas Mountains of Morocco, along with simply stunning scenery, you’ll find a haven of computer free activities at the Kasbah Bab Ourika like expert yoga classes, morning hikes through wild lavender fields, and clear mountain air that makes up for being offline. Don’t worry, it’ll all be waiting for you when you get back.

Distance from wi-fi: How often have you gotten good wi-fi signal up the side of a mountain?

Family tech free in Jamaica
Try Jakes Hotel, it has it all, or rather we should say it hasn’t it all. All of the cottages are without wi-fi, TVs or telephones. This place is about getting completely relaxed at the perfect beaches nearby, finding the ideal masseuse at the spa, or simply taking some time to enjoy life at the ‘chicest shacks in the Caribbean.’

Distance to wifi: Ok, if you really need it, you might find signal in the hotel lobby.

Get beached in Phi Phi
If you’ve seen that movie The Beach, you’ll remember the picture perfect cove, where a bunch of travellers decided to live in idyllic surroundings. Completely removed from society, it was the perfect balm for escaping the rat race (until things turned a little sour, but the less said about that the better!) The beaches in Phi Phi may not be as deserted as they once were, but they are definitely about as tech free as you’ll find in Thailand.

Distance to wi-fi: You’ll be lucky to find patchy reception in some of the bars, but this isn’t one of the big all-encompassing resorts, so you might even forget you once owned a phone!

Surf the Aegean not the web
The cruising season in the Greek Islands lasts from May to October. It’s a place to switch off – because you don’t have any choice. Helping out on a boat is hard work, even if it’s simply sunbathing on deck, (that’s helping isn’t it?) Typically, you’ll travel around the likes of Rhodes, Mykonos, and Santorini. Wi-fi is at a minimum on board, so why not go to the whole hog and leave your phone back in Britain.

Distance from wi-fi: Of course when you land on the islands you’ll find plenty of places to plug in, but a tech free holiday is just what you make it, so switch off and check your mail when you get home.

Image via here.

Purple Tips: Best Honeymoon Destinations

Feb 07 2013

Buzzing nightlife Pick Cyprus. The birthplace of the Goddess of Love Aphrodite is pretty much bubbling with romance. There are idyllic sandy beaches, trails where the goddess herself is said to have walked, charming wine-making villages and a relaxed atmosphere that’s made for hand in hand walks in the sunshine. By evening, Paphos is a lively town with a mix of traditional tavernas, lively bars and clubs where you can dance all night if you feel like it. The luxury 5* Elysium Cyprus has every aspect of your honeymoon covered, from stunning views, massages to its great location right on the beach. Cyprus sunset image via @ Mrs Logic

Wildlife just a few short hours from the UK, Gambia is the obvious choice for enjoying a lively first few days of honeymoon packages. You can top up your tan in tropical sunshine, relax in sumptuous facilities, explore safari and try to catch the big 5 or meet some of the friendliest people in the world at the Smiling Coast. The 5* Kairaba Beach Hotel is a comfortable choice. Right on the famous Kololi beach and standing in beautiful flower filled gardens, it’s a real home away from home. The only way you’ll notice the difference is by catching sight of the vervet monkeys and wild birds that live in the trees. Monkeys in Gambia image via @ kevinzim

On a budget if you’re going for budget, why not take a long weekend in a beautiful European city. Purple Travel can get great deals on flights to several capitals but Rome has to be one of our favourites. The modern 4* Hotel American Palace is right in the heart of the action, with a nearby metro that will take you to sights like the Trevi Fountain or Colosseum. There’s even a beach about 30 minutes away by convenient public transport. As beautiful as it is by day, it’s even more spectacular by night, as the cosy corners are lit by candlelit, vino is opened and couples take evening strolls under moonlight. Rome is a great choice for a budget conscious honeymoon this year. Image of Rome by @ Moyen_Brenn

Absolute luxury The Sandals Royal Hicaco 5* in Varadero, Cuba, is on 23 acres, in lush greenery and offers lots of choice for couples on their first days of married life. There are three types of suites to choose from and the properties are decorated in a cute 1920s style. Although home to some of the finest beaches on earth, the Caribbean Island is practically made for honeymooners looking to discover its rich culture and heritage. Nights should be spent learning tango, knocking back rum cocktails and learning how to roll your own cigars, in between sunbathing sessions in one of the best honeymoon destinations ever. Image of Cuba by @ darkroomillusions

The ultimate in romance Island hopping in Greece is obviously the top choice for island hopping. With a big boost on drawing visitors, it’s never been better value to head to head to the beautiful Greek islands. We think the Cyclades is a good idea, with Santorini offering azure sparkling waters, and dramatic evenings watching the sunset from the caldera. The Astro Palace 5* Hotel is an elegant and traditional accommodation, with a peaceful atmosphere, but just a few minutes from the island’s main city Fira. The nearby island of Naxos is an absolute gem and not that well known outside of Greece, so you can lay out on unspoilt, empty beaches before tottering to a nearby taverna for lunch. Finish up in Mykonos for a few days of the high life before jetting back home. The Mykonos Grand should be enough luxury for you and your new other half. Image of Santorini by @ Navin75

On the beach Portugal is a big hit with bride and grooms both as a wedding destination and has kick ass honeymoon packages. There are tonnes of flights and the Algarve and Faro in particular are easy to get to. Plus it’s got something for everyone, from golf course, (but c’mon guys!) romantic secluded villages, lively towns and spectacular hotels. The 4* Riu Palace Algarve is right on the beach, one of the most beautiful in the Algarve and has pools, Jacuzzi, hammam and spa on site to make you feel totally relaxed. The on site restaurants or local eateries are great for sampling the absolutely delicious Portuguese cuisine, while its access to picture perfect beaches is hard to beat. Image of Algarve Beach by @ D an Taylor

Call Purple Travel now for the best honeymoon destinations this year on 0207 993 9228.

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