Preparation

Make a list of places you want to visit. This might sound obvious, but a road trip needs planning in regards to the time you have available, how long it will take you to get from A to B and what`s possible to include. When looking on a road map, it`s easy to plan too many places of interest because it doesn`t look that far on the map. Reality is that roads can be narrow and windy, there might be traffic or there are strict speed limits etc that will slow you down.

As for accommodation, it`s been my experience that you should at least have two nights at your stop along the way. In Florida we only had one night, meaning we arrived, unpacked, slept and had to move on, giving us very little time to explore the place you`re staying at. Whereas on our Ireland trip, we made sure we had two nights at each destination, making it possible to explore the area around, which offers a more relaxed way of traveling and so much more enjoyable.

If you are taking your own car, make sure it gets serviced before you leave on a road trip. Alternatively, when you hire a car (like we did) make sure you have the right insurance, check your car for any marks or previous damages when you pick it up.

What to bring?

A knife (maybe even a spoon and fork), but definitely a knife. Why? Being on the road most of the day means you`ll either be eating a lot of junk food or spending a lot of money eating at restaurants. To avoid both, stop at a local grocery shop or supermarket along the way and buy your own picnic. It`s healthier and better for your budget!

Wet wipes, that`s an easy one. Always convenient to have them around.

Bring a paper road map. Yes, it`s old fashioned with a GPS and internet these days, but when your GPS hasn`t got the latest update or you don`t have reception and your internet is not working, you`ll be grateful for your paper road map as a backup. I would also recommend investing in buying data to have internet on your phone instead of a GPS (especially when renting a car, as rental companies ask a lot of money for a GPS). Google maps shows you where you are and has the latest information.

Bring your own music. Even though there`s the option of the radio, experience has taught me that when you`re driving all day it`s nice to have good music and having your own playlist with you.

Good to know

Do a bit of research on the driving rules in the country you`re visiting. This will help you with speed limits and other practical tips that might be different. Here are some driving tips for Ireland, UK and USA.

Make sure you check if your vehicle is allowed on all the roads you`ll be driving. For example when renting a motorhome/RV, this is considered a larger vehicle and is sometimes not permitted because of the narrow roads or the elevation of the road.

Like I mentioned in the preparation, roads take a lot longer in reality than in theory. We`ve learned that while we were in Ireland. Even though the speed limit might be 100km/h on most roads, it`s not what you`ll be driving as the roads are narrow and windy.

When renting a car, make sure you ask them how tolls are billed. Is it better to pay in advance for a pass, can you pay at toll boots or will you be billed afterwards? This way you won`t have any unpleasant surprises at the end of your trip.

Bathroom breaks are important, most supermarkets have a toilet available for their customers.

These are a few of the things I learned during my road trips and I hope they`ll help you on your next adventure! Feel free to share where you`re off to next in the comments below.

What`s your top road trip tip?

Our recent road trip through Ireland was with the help of Argus Car Hire.

These were the highlights of my trip and I would recommend them if you`re planning a trip to Ireland.

1. Rosses Point, County Sligo

Rosses Point is a village in County Sligo and is also the name of the surrounding peninsula. It`s a lovely spot to have a  picnic or to go for a walk.

TIP: If you`re looking for a cozy place for lunch or have a piece of cake, make sure to stop at Shells in Strandhill, which is located on the other side of Sligo. Both sea-side villages are located about 5 miles from Sligo center. If you want more tips, then check out “things to do in Sligo“.

2. Scenic drive between Westport and Leenane

If you look on a road map of Ireland it`s hard to choose between all the scenic routes that are marked. There were a few of those scenic routes that definitely stood out for me. One of them was the drive between Westport and Leenane. Driving through the open space, surrounded by all the green, it`s the perfect route to take in Ireland`s stunning scenery.

3. Driving from Ballyvaughan to Doolin

Another scenic route that I truly enjoyed was the drive from Ballyvaughan to Doolin. About a kilometer before arriving to the village of Doolin, you`ll pass by Doonagore Castle, a 16th-centry tower house castle on a hill overlooking Doolin Point.

4. Cliffs of Moher

Probably one of the most famous attractions of Ireland are the Cliffs of Moher. The cliffs stretch over 8 kilometers (5 miles) along the Atlantic coast in County Clare. For a visit to the cliffs, you`ll pay a 6 euros* entrance (per adult). There`s a car park about 5 minutes from the Visitor Center. (An extra fee will be charged if you want to go up O`Brien`s Tower)

TIP: About 50 minutes from the Cliffs of Moher, there`s the beautiful Dunguaire Castle, which you can admire from the road or visit for a fee. Coming from Galway it`s on the way to the cliffs.

5. Ladies View

Ladies View is a scenic point about 20 km (12 miles) from Killarney along the N71 and part of the Ring of Kerry in Killarney National Park. You`ll find a small car park where you can stop for photos. A bit further down the road, make a stop at Moll`s Gap where you`ll have a view of the Macgillycuddy’s Reeks mountains.

6. Torc Waterfall

Torc Waterfall is a waterfall at the base of Torc Mountain, about 5 miles (8.0 km) from Killarney town in County Kerry. Even in the rain, this waterfall was impressive. It`s a 5 minute walk from the car park to see the waterfall.

TIP: No parking or admission fee.

7. Dingle Peninsula

Definitely one of my favorites on this trip! Dingle Peninsula is the northernmost of the major peninsulae in County Kerry. The scenery is stunning, especially on a sunny day. As you can see in the photo above, the road almost hugs the ocean giving you spectacular views over Blasket Islands.

8. Blarney House

When visiting Blarney Castle and the gardens, it was not the castle that caught my eye but Blarney House. It`s an astonishing mansion built in 1874 and is located in the middle of the gardens. There`s plenty to see besides the castle and the mansion, so make sure to take some time when stopping for a visit.

TIP: In the summer time the Blarney House is also open to visitors.

9. Healy Pass, Beara Peninsula

Beara Peninsula might not be as famous as Iveragh Peninsula with the Ring of Kerry or Dingle Peninsula, but is worth a trip if you can fit it in. The Healy Pass is a bendy mountain road between Adrigole and Lauragh and offers stunning views at the top.

TIP: Kenmare is an ideal base for either exploring the Ring of Beara and/or the Ring of Kerry. If you have the time, visit Gougane Barra where you will find a picturesque church by the lake.

10. Ring of Kerry

Another well-known attraction in Ireland is the Ring of Kerry. This 180 km circular tourist route covers most of the Iveragh Peninsula revealing its beauty. If you want to drive the whole Ring of Kerry, you`ll have to count for a full day of driving, as the roads get windy and narrow at some places. And if there`s one thing I`ve learned on this road trip, it is that even though it might not look so far on a map, it will take you some time to get from point A to point B because of the roads.

Of course there`s plenty more to see in Ireland, such as Dublin, Belfast and Giant`s Causeway. I`ll be sharing more about these destinations in the coming weeks. But for now I hope you`ve found some inspiration for your Ireland trip.

Where would you like to go?

Have you been to Ireland yet?

]]> http://www.isabellestravelguide.com/dingle-peninsula.html/feed 5 http://www.isabellestravelguide.com/how-to-get-around-in-belgium.html http://www.isabellestravelguide.com/how-to-get-around-in-belgium.html#comments Wed, 04 Sep 2013 07:00:05 +0000 Isabelle http://www.isabellestravelguide.com/?p=18599 Growing up in Belgium I`ve learnt that our public transportation is a great way to get around. There are trains, buses and trams to get you to where you need to be. Because Belgium is centrally located in Europe, it`s a great base to travel to other countries as well.

Belgium is divided in three parts: Flanders (Flemish part), Wallonia (French part) and Brussels. This makes for different companies to be in charge in these three parts. The train network has one main operator though, which I covered in a separate article: trains in Belgium.

FLANDERS

TRAMS

• Coast Tram, or Kusttram in Dutch, covers almost the entire Belgian Coast from France to the Netherlands making it the longest single tram line in the world.
• Other tram networks exist in the cities of Brussels, Antwerp and Ghent.

BUSES

De Lijn is the public bus transportation company throughout Flanders as well as towards and from Brussels.

Tickets

• You can buy a single ticket in advance or from the driver. It`s always more expensive if you have to buy it on the bus!
• When planning on taking the bus a lot during your travels, consider buying a Lijnkaart in advance. Your journey will be 25 % cheaper this way. (more info)
• You can also opt for a Day Pass, 3-Day Pass or 5-Day Pass. This way you can travel unlimited for one or several days. Check for details.

Don`t know which ticket is right for you, then have a look at this overview.

BRUSSELS

The STIB offers a complete transport network in Brussels, including the metro (which is currently only available in Brussels). For more information on timetables and prices, go to STIB.be.

Tickets

• MOBIB basic card: a plastic chip-card where you can load journey or day fares to. The card has to be validated at metro stations or on buses/trams. (This card is similar to the Oyster card in London) The MOBIB journey fares are 10% cheaper than normal tickets. You can recharge the card at several places. Check here for more details.
• JUMP: paper ticket that you have to stamp at the orange machines. It`s cheaper to buy your ticket in advance, you`ll pay more when buying from the driver. There are single fares, 5-trip cards, 10-trip cards, 1 day cards etc. For more information on different tickets, check here.

WALLONIA

Unfortunately I`m not very familiar with public transport in Wallonia.

TEC offers a bus service throughout Wallonia as well as towards and from Brussels. You can check www.infotec.be for more information.

AIRPORTS

Our main international airport is Brussels Airport, Zaventem. Charleroi, also known as Brussels South is used mainly by Ryanair. There`s are two smaller airports: Antwerp Airport and Liège Airport.

Public transport from and to Brussels Airport is either bus or train. Check here for bus schedules and here for train travel.

To and from Brussels South, Charleroi, there`s a Brussels City Shuttle that leaves from the main train station, Brussels Midi. Or you can travel to Charleroi by train and then a direct bus line A. For more info.

Have you used public transportation in Belgium? What did you think about it?

Photo Credit

DOMESTIC TRAIN TRAVEL

SNCB, or NMBS in Dutch, is Belgium’s main rail operator and it is the country’s largest operator. On the SNCB website you can find information on timetables, domestic connections and international rail links. You can also buy your train tickets online at this website. Seat reservations are not available on Belgian trains (except for groups). The first train leaves at approximately 5 AM and the last one departs at approximately 11 PM, but check the website for accurate timetables.

Some help with the tickets:

Travel is valid only for the dates shown on the ticket. There are one-way and return tickets in First and Second class, but there are also specials and passes to look at.

• If you`re traveling in a weekend, there`s the Weekend Ticket which offers a 50% discount on the return ticket. It`s valid from Friday after 7.01 pm until Sunday midnight (Sometimes it`s extended when there`s a long weekend with a public holiday). Check the conditions here.
• If you`re planning on traveling a lot by train, you should look into investing in a Rail Pass. This pass allows you to travel alone or with others for ten single journeys for 76 euros* in 2^nd class to any destination in Belgium. It`s valid for a year. If you want more comfort, you can buy a rail pass for 117 euros* in First class. It`s easy to use, every journey you make, per passenger you fill out a line stating the date, departure and end station. (More info)
• Still under 26 years old? Then there`s the Go Pass for you. Same conditions as the rail pass but then for those under 26 and for a cheaper price of 50 euros* for ten single journeys. (More info)
• Children under 12 can travel for half price if they are traveling alone or if over 4 children are traveling with an adult. Otherwise children can travel for free in certain conditions.
• Senior Ticket: for people aged 65 and over, you can travel at a reduced rate. 6 euros* in 2^nd class for a return journey to anywhere in Belgium. Subject to conditions.
• B-Excursions: All-in-one excursion tickets to sightseeing destinations at reduced rates.  A return journey in 2^nd class, admission to the attraction and a connection by bus, tram and metro if necessary. Check out the options.

As you can see there are plenty of options, so make sure to have a look at all ticket options before traveling.

Tip: You can either buy your tickets online, at the train station or on the train itself. Be aware though if you have to buy your ticket on the train because you had to run for your train or you were at a smaller train station that didn`t sell tickets, be sure to alert the train guard as otherwise you might be charged with a fee for not having a valid ticket.

INTERNATIONAL TRAIN TRAVEL

International trains into the Netherlands, Germany, UK and France:

• Thalys: this European high-speed network connects Belgium, France, Germany and the Netherlands. You can find more info at Thalys.com
• Eurostar: this high-speed train connects London to over 100 destinations in Europe, including Brussels. Info at Eurostar.com
• TGV-Europe: high-speed trains that depart from Brussels every day to cross France. More info on destinations can be found at TGV-Europe.com
• ICE International: every day, the InterCity Express connects Frankfurt or Köln with Brussels and Liège. Check www.bahn.de for more information routes and prices.

Have you ever taken the train in Belgium?

*Prices accurate at time of publishing

Follow along my road trip and the stops en route at Florida’s Gulf Coast:

Pensacola

Pensacola offers the best of both worlds, powder-white beaches alongside a town rich of history as Pensacola was founded in 1559. Visit the National Naval Aviation Museum, one of the World’s largest Air & Space museums, for free. Or climb up 177 steps for a view from above at the top of Pensacola Lighthouse.

Panama City Beach

PCB is a famous Spring Break destination, but it also has a lot to offer for the beach lover as it has 27 miles of white sandy beaches. Take a boat out to Shell Island, a natural and undeveloped island or fly over it by helicopter. Had enough of the beaches, go shopping at Pier Park with 124 shops and a movie theatre you won`t be bored soon.

Apalachicola

A cozy and quaint city with a relaxed atmosphere that has it all: cute boutiques, restaurants and beautiful houses. This was definitely a favorite of mine along my trip. Make sure to take a drive to Little St George Island where you can go to the beaches, explore St George Island State Park or visit Cape St George Light, a historic lighthouse.

Cedar Key

Cedar Key has an abundance of seafood and beautiful nature. This is the place to come if you`re interested in bird life and fishing. Cedar Key also made history as it was part of the first Cross-Florida Railroad. It`s a nice place to rent a house, invite your family and have a relaxing vacation.

St Petersburg and Clearwater

It doesn`t come as a surprise that Clearwater was named ‘Best Beach Town in Florida’ by USA Today. Clearwater Beach, a white sandy beach, is the perfect spot to sit back and relax or if you prefer play a game of beach volleyball. As for St Petersburg, make sure to stop by the Salvador Dali Museum as this museum houses the largest collection outside Europe of the works of the artist Salvador Dali.

Bradenton

Just outside of Bradenton you`ll find Anna Maria Island, a personal favorite of mine. Here you`ll find hidden beaches, cute beach shops and a laid back atmosphere. This is for the beach lover who wants to enjoy a relaxing vacation and get away from it all.

Sarasota

Don`t miss the Ringling Museum of Art and make sure you allow yourself enough time to visit the whole property as there`s a Circus Museum, the Museum of Art, a rose garden and Ca’ d’Zan. The Ca’ d’Zan meaning House of John is one of the largest historical mansions on the west coast of Florida. Had enough culture, then head to Siesta Beach named #1 Best Beaches by Dr Beach.

Fort Myers and Sanibel

Strolling through the streets Fort Myers Downtown makes for a nice afternoon, as the city has a cozy feel to it with palm trees decorating the streets and shops along the way. Fort Myers is known as the ‘City of Palms’ because of the streets lined with palms. A must see in Fort Myers are the Winter Estates of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford. These estates are one of the nation`s top ten most visited sites. Want to hit the beach, go shelling at neighboring Captiva Island.

Have you been to any of these places? Which one was your favorite?

This post was brought to you in partnership with Monarch Airlines.

I used to always pick the window seat for the view, but lately when I have long flights I prefer the aisle seat. Why? This way I don`t have to ask others to move when I want to walk around or use the bathroom. Downside is that you`re the one getting up for someone else if they need to get up. Best scenario is being upgraded to Business or First, then you have aisle and window in one! The next best thing when you`re traveling as a couple, is having a seat free in between, this way you have more room and it`s just the two of you in a row.

And then the next question: do you choose a seat at the front of the plane or in the back? Or maybe you don`t really care?

I`ve noticed I prefer to sit at the front of the plane for a few reasons. I don`t like seeing the whole plane when flying, blame it on a previous bumpy ride but seeing the whole plane shake isn`t fun. You have more chance of having your meal choice, because at the back of the plane you hear this line a lot: “We`re very sorry, but we don`t have any choices left, we only have…”. Or even worse they don`t have any food left… yes, that really happened on a flight (the staff was very apologetic though and went looking for food in Business class). Anyone else had such an experience?

On a recent BA flight I came across these statistics in their magazine:

Do you use websites to help you pick the best seat?

When it`s a long flight, I do have a quick look at Seatguru. It`s easy to find your flight and the seat map of the plane you`ll be flying. If you know of other good websites, I would love to hear them in the comments.

What are your pet peeves on a flight?

• Kicking against the seat
• Seat reclining – have the courtesy to have a quick look if the person behind you is eating or drinking.
• No decent entertainment system (Yes Delta I`m looking at you for a 9 hour flight I prefer my own entertainment system and not a prehistoric system where we all have a choice of two movies)

I would love to hear your flight preferences and experiences!

Wandering the streets in these parts of Italy is one of my favorite things to do.

A famous sight in Lecce is the Roman Amphitheater. Here you can see Roman arches at the Amphitheater.

Church of St Chiari

 Piazza del Duomo

Detail of the Basilica di S. Croce

One of the things you definitely have to do while walking around is look up. The balconies you see are beautiful!

TIP: You`re in the country of gelato, so make sure to have one! I tried Gelateria Natale (Via Trinchese 7, Lecce) and thought it was worth the visit.

Practical

• 30 min train ride from Brindisi
• 2,60 euro*/one way (these tickets can be easily bought at a Fast Ticket machine with a credit card)

Have you been to Lecce?

 *Price accurate at time of publishing

Points of interest:

Harbor

This was probably my favorite place to be. There are a few restaurants here, but more importantly gelaterias! Not to mention the beautiful sight of the harbor with its many sailing boats.

Sailors Monument

The Monument to Italian Sailors was built in the memory of the fallen soldiers during World War I. You can either climb up the stairs or take an elevator to get you to the top which gives you a spectacular view over Brindisi`s waterfront.

Practical: It`s free to enter. Opening Hours: October – March: open from 9 am – 1 pm and 2 – 4.30 pm on Tuesdays till Sunday (closed on Monday). April – September: open from 9 am – 1 pm and 3 – 8 pm on Tuesdays till Sunday (closed on Monday).*

Brindisi Cathedral

Duomo of Brindisi is not only impressive during the day, it also has something special at night when the lights emphasize its magnificence.

Market

Visit the local farmer`s market where you can find fresh food. It`s not only a treat to the eyes with all the colors of the fresh fruit and vegetables but also the perfect place to by fresh ingredients. It takes place every day (except Sunday) from early to about noon.

Streets

Brindisi is one of those cities where you just have to wander the streets and you`ll find a surprise behind every corner. I loved just walking around and finding treasures along the way.

Besides being a gem on its own, Brindisi is also the perfect hub to visit other destinations, like Ostuni also referred to as the White City.

Ostuni is located about 40 km (25 miles) from Brindisi. Another daytrip could be a visit to Lecce which is only a 30 minutes train ride away.

If you rent a car, which is a good idea to visit the surroundings, you won`t be disappointed by the scenery. How about these gorgeous olive trees are dotted along the way?

Don`t miss out on the opportunity to visit a Masseria, which is a farm converted into lodging. We had the pleasure of visiting Masseria Il Frantoio - unfortunately not stayed there overnight, but would love to go back just to have that experience. At this old converted farmhouse, I felt like I found a little piece of heaven right there. The owner, Armando, welcomed us with open arms and showed us around. He and his staff organized a delicious lunch with fresh organic ingredients. Their strawberries were amazing!

When we were there, a couple was getting married. They would have their ceremony in nearby Ostuni, but family and friends were staying at this gorgeous location. If you ask me, it was the perfect location for it!

Thanks to Brindisi is MY destination for hosting me and giving me the opportunity to discover this lesser known part of Italy. All opinions and photos are my own.

*Accurate at time of publishing

During 2,5 hours the spectators were in for a treat with all sorts of acrobatics in the air. From the Trig Acrobatic team with close formation flying to the fast jet that is the Strikemaster to a demonstration from the Irish Coast Guard`s helicopter and much more. The show finished with The Blades, a civilian acrobatic team that currently holds the world record for most consecutive formation loops, that shows all sort of stunts.

It definitely had something special seeing an air show at the seafront. Here`s a small selection of the many photos I took:

Practical

• The air show is free
• Bray is located about 20 km (12 mi) south of Dublin
• Taking public transportation is recommended due to the popularity and crowds visiting the show. You can either take the train or bus from Dublin. I took the bus, number 145 towards Kilmacanogue for 2.80 euros*/one way.

Have you ever been to an air show?

Want to read more about airplanes, then check out my visit to the National Naval Aviation Museum in Pensacola, Florida or when I skydived in Spain.

*Prices were accurate at time of publishing