10 places every girl should have on their holiday bucket list
A holiday in the sun is something that many of us look forward to, with many making it an annual occurrence to go on with their girlfriends. Instead of choosing the same old locations every year though, why not explore a new city or a beach destination for your next getaway? QUIZ, fashion retailers of such holiday essentials as going out dresses when heading on a night out overseas, looks to inspire you with these top ten places that really should be on your girls holiday bucket list:
The Amalfi Coast
The Amalfi coast is a 50-kilometre stretch of land found on the west coast of Italy, which is best known for its rugged coastline and pretty fishing villages. It’s not so much a party destination but it’s still a nice place to soak up some sunshine with your good friends.
Must-dos:
There’s something different to do at every village along the Amalfi coast. From the cathedral in Sorrento to the picturesque town of Positano — each place is unique. Try and visit a few of them, if you can, to make the most of a coastal trip.
Be sure to visit the main town of Amalfi too. It’s the busiest town if you’re looking for hustle and bustle and the restaurants here offer amazing Italian dishes that you’d struggle to enjoy anywhere else.
Bali
A paradise-like landscape awaits you when you arrive at the Indonesian island of Bali. It’s also a great place to get away with the girls and relax on beaches like no other.
Must-dos:
There really is something to suit everybody in Bali. Why not try a yoga retreat? Head for the Yoga Barn which is one of the most famous retreats on the island, located in Ubud. Here, there is a range of programmes for all abilities and lengths — find one that you can all enjoy together.
Seminyak is the ideal place to visit when you’re after something a little livelier. There is a strip of bars, cafes and restaurants — even some with bean bags on the beach so you can enjoy a drink while the sun goes down.
Barcelona
As well as being a fascinating city, Barcelona also boasts coastal vibes. You can take a 30-minute walk from the shopping centre, the perfect places to buy a vestidos fiesta. There is also El Corte Ingles, to the paella restaurants on the beachfront. Catch up with the girls over a glass of sangria and soak up the culture.
Must-dos:
Away from the main attractions like the Sagrada Familia and Parc Guell, you may be wondering what else there is to see and do within the Catalan capital city. Well, there are a few rooftop bars, for one, but one with a great view is the 1881 per SAGARDI bar which is situated at the top of the History Museum of Catalonia and overlooks the marina. It’s a place for fine dining before the in-house DJ begins early evening.
Away from the main attractions like the Sagrada Familia and Parc Guell, you may be wondering what else there is to see and do within the Catalan capital city. Well, there are a few rooftop bars, for one, but one with a great view is the 1881 per SAGARDI bar which is situated at the top of the History Museum of Catalonia and overlooks the marina. It’s a place for fine dining before the in-house DJ begins early evening.
Carmel del Bunkers is a must-see when you’re after that ideal picnic spot. This used to be bunkers during the Spanish Civil War and now overlooks the entire city. Take a blanket up here, some food and drink and enjoy the sunset with your friends. Read the tips to plan a budget friendly holiday to Barcelona in my previous post, here.
Budapest
Budapest is a city that has increased so much in popularity over the past few years. A Hungarian city of quirky bars and restaurants, as well as beautiful architecture, it’s also somewhere that’s full of life with plenty to do.
Must-dos:
Head to Szechenyi Spa and Baths, Budapest’s most popular thermal bath, and you’ll be able to experience a spa party, or ‘sparty’. You can visit during the day too but on a Saturday, during the summer, it turns into a giant pool party.
The majority of Budapest’s pubs are known as ‘ruin pubs’. This means that they’re old, run-down buildings that have been turned into pubs. A lot of them are based in the Jewish Quarter and it’s worth doing a mini pub crawl around these for drinking spots like no other.
Dubai
Luxury shopping sites, towering skyscrapers and rich residents—just a few things that you may think when you hear Dubai. But, it’s also home to a lot more than that, including a very lively nightlife scene — perfect for letting your hair down on a ‘girls getaway’.
Must-dos:
Take a trip to the Burj Khalifa and you’ll be able to see what it’s like to stand or sit in the world’s tallest building. At the observation deck, you can see astounding panoramic views of the city unlike anything you’ve seen before. You can have a drink at the atmosphere bar too — located on the 122nd floor.
There’s also the Aquaventure Water Park. It’s ideal for a girly day out with its thrilling rides and slides. You also have the option to swim with dolphins, sea lions and go scuba diving — a great experience away from the city.
Ibiza
There’s no doubting that Ibiza is still the Balearic Islands’ party capital. However, there’s also places close by where you can relax in the sun and gossip with your besties.
Must-dos:
At sunset, be sure to pay Café Mambo a visit. You’ve probably seen the videos and heard all about it, but visitors say it’s an unforgettable experience. Once a smaller venue situated on Ibiza’s sunset strip, it’s now one of the most famous venues on the island — host to the biggest DJs in the world.
At sunset, be sure to pay Café Mambo a visit. You’ve probably seen the videos and heard all about it, but visitors say it’s an unforgettable experience. Once a smaller venue situated on Ibiza’s sunset strip, it’s now one of the most famous venues on the island — host to the biggest DJs in the world.
Ibiza also has an old town that’s well worth exploring. Partying for five nights can get tiring, but San Antonio isn’t that far from a place of serenity. You can wander the cobbled streets and be rewarded with some memorable panoramic views of the island before chilling out in one of the well-loved restaurants.
Marbella
Looking for a balance between a place with a party vibe and a destination with a little bit of glam? Marbella is a good place to go. It’s similar to Ibiza in that you’re never far from a DJ set, but it’s often thought of as more refined. The locals enjoy going out in Marbella too and there’s an air of luxe surrounding the city.
Must-dos:
You shouldn’t think the organised boat parties will be the only way to hit the waves around Marbella. There are plenty of private boats available to hire from the port for the full day — play music, take your own food and soak up the sun.
Just like in Ibiza, Marbella has its own historic old town too. Head there and you can soak up the culture and stretch your legs. Be sure to visit Plaza de los Naranjos in particular, which is lined with open-air restaurants and is often host to street singers playing local tunes.
Marrakech
Next up on our list is the Moroccan city of Marrakech. Well-known for its rich culture and stunning palaces, there’s so much to do and explore when you’re here.
Must-dos:
Be sure not to pack your suitcase too much on the way out to Marrakech, as you’ll certainly want space for some souvenirs. You could spend hours in the souks of Marrakech, exploring the crafted men’s shirts, bags, going out tops, accessories and spices. It’s unlike any shopping trip you would’ve had with the girls before.
Le Jardin is a fantastic eatery with a relaxing vibe when you want a break from the bustling atmosphere of Jemaa el-Fnaa. This restaurant is complete with indoor greenery, live music and serves Moroccan classics like tagines and authentic lamb dishes.
You’re also just a bus ride away from Essaouira, a seaside city which will allow you to chill by the coast instead of near the pool. Scour the local shops and enjoy lunch in one of the quaint side streets.
You’re also just a bus ride away from Essaouira, a seaside city which will allow you to chill by the coast instead of near the pool. Scour the local shops and enjoy lunch in one of the quaint side streets.
Miami
Get ready to brush shoulders with A-listers and feel oh-so glamorous if you visit Miami. Aside from endless beaches and art-deco inspired buildings, what else is there for you and your gal pals to do on the coast of south Florida?
Must-dos:
There’s so many pool parties hosted throughout Miami. Check if there are any events on at the National Hotel which is host to Miami’s longest infinity pool.
There’s so many pool parties hosted throughout Miami. Check if there are any events on at the National Hotel which is host to Miami’s longest infinity pool.
Hoping to avoid shopping in indoor centres that will surely be stuffy? Then head to Bayside Marketplace to make some purchases with your girlfriends instead. Situated around the marinas at Biscayne Bay, this open-air mall is a great way to keep cool while trying on clothes and there’s often live music played from the main stage, too.
As this is the city of the rich and famous, you should be sure to play spot-the-celebrity too. Board the 90-minute boat trip that takes you through Biscayne Bay, narrated by someone who will point out the homes of the stars (cocktails available too).
Days at the beach are easy across Miami as well. Head to Sunny Isles beach for a coastal stretch that’s less touristy than the popular South Beach. Or, head to Haulover Beach — the only nudist beach in Miami — to catch some rays without the tan lines.
Santorini
Whitewashed buildings and a hilly landscape are both associated with Santorini. It’s become more of a tourist destination in recent years and it’s clear to see why. The island is an ideal destination to go with your girlfriends, especially if you’re looking to chill out and soak up the Greek heat.
Must-dos:
If you love a glass of wine, you’ll want to take up the 18-wine tasting flight that’s available at the Santo Winery. The winery is one of the top spots to watch the famous Santorini sunset too, an extra bonus.
Don’t miss out on experiencing a sunset over Santorini too. After all, it was named the most stunning in the world by many visitors. There are certain spots where it looks its best, so sit back and enjoy the views.
So that concludes the ten destinations to add to your girls holiday bucket list. Of course, it all depends on what sort of thing you’re after but choosing a place that has a mixture of vibes and things to do is always a good idea.
So that concludes the ten destinations to add to your girls holiday bucket list. Of course, it all depends on what sort of thing you’re after but choosing a place that has a mixture of vibes and things to do is always a good idea.
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ReplyDeleteLove these! I want to see Marbella, Budapest and Marrakech the most! And Bali of course :)
ReplyDeleteNora | www.noradileo.com
Great post! Budapest is my next visit! X
ReplyDeleteI like Miami.
ReplyDelete