Claire Townend

New York New York so good they named it twice. The city that never sleeps, full of energy with endless things to do, famous landmarks and familiar sights from TV & film to see. I’m told it’s also good for shopping. (I don’t do shopping). 
Sin City that is Las Vegas where anything goes, with its bright lights, shows, themed hotels, casino’s, pool parties, nightclubs & DJ’s, there might even be shops too. All this on the doorstep of the Grand Canyon which is absolutely breath-taking when viewed from the air.  
Chicago, The Windy City on the shores of the magnificent Lake Michigan. Follow in the footsteps of infamous gangsters on one of the crime & mob tours. It’s also where the deep-dish pizza was invented, I can highly recommended Giordano’s.  Ride the Chicago L (short for elevated) transit system and visit the iconic “bean”, shopping is also available on the magnificent mile.
Key West, Americas southernmost point, only 90 miles from Cuba. Just a 4-hour drive from Miami on the scenic coastal Overseas Highway with plenty of interesting things to do during the 110-mile trip, including crossing 42 different bridges. Although the island is only 4 x 2 miles it sure has a lot of eating & drinking places with fresh seafood  in abundance. Duval Street, one of the most energetic strips of shops, bars and cafes anywhere, offers Sloppy Joe’s bar, a favourite Key West hangout of novelist Ernest Hemingway.
These are just a few of the places I’ve had the good fortune to visit, other places include San Francisco, Los Angeles, Miami, Orlando, Washington, Boston & Denver. Although it may seem like I’ve been to lots of places, in reality, I have barely touched the surface. There are still so many states left to see that’s why it’s one of my favourite places. A country full of contrast that offers every conceivable holiday type imaginable from Skiing in the mountains, thrilling theme park rides, glorious beaches, road trips, hectic cities, ranch holidays with real life cowboys, the list is endless.

A myriad of islands, essential the same but with stunning sandy beaches, crystal clear blue waters, a tropical climate and amazingly friendly people full of character.   Each island having a unique charm making it impossible to pick one above the other. Although most of the accommodation is based on All Inclusive, it would be a crime not to leave your complex and explore the island. 
Some of the highlights of my Caribbean holidays are below but I have also visited, Cozumel & Riviera Maya in Mexico, Dominican Republic & Cuba.
Jamaica - Climbing the famous Dunns River Falls at Ochios Rios, sampling the local speciality, jerk chicken washed down with an ice cold red stripe.
Barbados – Fish Fry Friday at Oistins. A gathering of locals and visitors alike come together to enjoy some of the freshly cooked fish, sample the local rum and enjoy the party vibes and music. If you go early (say 5:45pm) you can walk on the pier collect your fish scraps from the vendors in the fish market and feed the turtles. Not forgetting the Reggae buses that transport you around the island, sometimes it’s all about the journey and not the destination.
St Lucia – Gros Islet street party, here you get to immerse yourself in the culture and party like a local. Eat authentic local street food, drink potent rum brews whilst giant loudspeakers belt out Caribbean beats, and crowds gather to watch local exhibitionists strut their stuff. 

It’s like marmite, you either love it or hate it. I love it, it’s cheap and cheerful and has something for everyone. Two wide beaches backed by a tree lined promenade full of shops, bars, restaurants and the skyscrapers. It’s great for families with its beaches, water & theme parks just on the outskirts of the resort. The oldies love it because of the flat promenade with plenty of seating available for them to sit & watch the world go by. Ample places offering them roast dinners and bingo with “turns” on regularly throughout the day. Stag & hen parties are attracted to the resort for the lively nightlife on the strip. It also hosts one of the biggest fancy-dress parties in Europe in November for the Fiesta when Benidorm really does get late, loud, lively and messy! Expect no sleep. My favourite time of year to visit the place!
In complete contrast, in the old town you will find traditional white-washed houses, wonderful churches and the famous El Mirador de la Punta del Canfali, (The castle look out point). No visit would be complete without a visit to Tapas Alley found among the maze of cobbled streets. I had some of the best tapas ever here. The Spanish hold their own traditional Fiesta on the days running up to the fancy-dress party with processions, parades, dancing in the streets with the climax being a fantastic firework display.