5 Destination Places to Visit Near CHENNAI For Family Holidays

5 destination places for Luxury family holidays :

1. V.G.P. Golden Beach
2. Covelong Beach (Near Mahabalipuram)
3. Arignar Anna Zoological Park
4. Sadras Beach Resort (Near Mahabalipuram)
5. Nagalapuram (Near Tirupati)

1. V.G.P. Golden Beach

At a distance of 21 Kms from Chennai Central Railway Station and 40 Kms from Mahabalipuram (situated on East Coast Road between Chennai and Mahabalipuram), VGP Golden Beach is the only resort in Chennai city limits. This is one of the popular tourist places to visit near Chennai.

This Beach cum Amusement Park is developed by The Tourism and Entertainment Corridor of Tamil Nadu, and offers wide range of entertainment options like Gokarting, Dashing Cars, Water Chute, Giant Wheel, Break-dance, Dragons belly, Super trooper and many more. Kids can enjoy the special sight seeing of Jurassic Park and Aquarium. There is an Art Centre which sells handicrafts and articles made out of sea shells.

The sea facing Swimming pool is an extra attraction. The beach is clean and ideal for sun-bathing. The Resort has a Multi-cuisine restaurant and a separate Bar

2. Covelong Beach (Near Mahabalipuram)

At a distance of 23 Kms from Mahabalipuram and 35 Kms from Chennai (on Chennai - Mahabalipuram Road) Covelong/Kovalam is a famous beach resort and one of the popular tourist places to visit near Chennai.

It was originally just a small fishing village, but now also expanded to become one of the most famous beach resorts in South India. You can still explore the old sea port that used to exist there. Numerous quality beach resorts can be found at Kovalam. The beaches at that location are absolutely exquisite, and are greatly enjoyed by all that visit there. It is also to these beaches that the well-known Olive Ridley Turtles travel to every year to hatch their eggs.

Swimmimg and wind surfing are popular activities at this beach.

3. Arignar Anna Zoological Park - 38 Kms

At a distance of 38 Kms from Chennai Central Railway Station (located in Vandalur, Kanchipuram district), Arignar Anna Zoological Park is one of the finest zoos in India. This is also one of the popular tourist places near Chennai and said to be one of the biggest in South East Asia.

Established in 1855 and shifted to the current location of Vandalur reserved forests in the year 1979. This park is officially opened to public in 1985, the park covers 510 hectares of land. The park shelters more than 170 species of animals. The dry forests surrounding the Vandalur region is the ideal breeding ground for these animals. It is home for Tigers, Jaguars, Lions, Panther, Elephants, Sambar, Giraffes and many more.

The Park has a library with good collection of wildlife related books and information. Elephant safari is also available in the park.

Timings 9 AM to 8 PM. Tuesday Holiday. But all the animals are back in their cages after 5 PM.

4. Sadras Beach Resort (Near Mahabalipuram) - 68 Kms

 

At a distance of 13 kms from Mahabalipuram (towards South) and 68 Kms from Chennai, Sadras is an outstanding beach resort that takes advantage of the beautiful landscape. This is one of the popular tourist places to visit around Chennai.

The beaches that surround Mahabalipuram are encompassed by beautiful, green casuarinas groves. The contrast of the vibrant green with the sparkling white beaches is breathtaking, and a sight that numerous tourists want to experience.

There is an old ruined Dutch Fort and a Dutch cemetery with finely carved headstones at Sadras as well.

5. Nagalapuram (Near Tirupati) - 87 Kms

At a distance of 16 km from Nagalapuram town, 44 km from Puttur, 87 km from Chennai, 78 km from Tirupati, 107 km from Chittoor, 130 km from Vellore, 120 km from Kanipakam & 288 km from Bangalore, Nagalapuram is a small historical town located in the Chittoor District of Andhra Pradesh. Nagalapuram is famous for two things, one is Sri Vedanarayana Swamy Temple and the other one is Nagalapuram falls trekking (also known as Saddhi Koodu Madugu). This is one of the popular sites for trekking near Chennai and also among ideal weekend getaways around Chenani for a two day trip.

Sri Vedanarayana temple is grand shrine dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is said to have been built by Krishna Devaraya of Vijayanagar Empire in remembrance of his mother Nagala Devi, after whom the town is named. The temple reflects the Vijayanagara architectural and the main deity idol is facing west. The sanctum sanctorum has Vedanarayana Swamy with his consort's Sridevi

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Top 5 Alternative Holiday destinations and must-see's abroad!

With holidays abroad more meaningful than ever, of course each one needs to be unique. With many amazing places to choose from, it can be hard to figure out those that are thriving in popularity at the moment.

Below we have favourited some of our most alternative, unique and up and coming holiday destinations and sight to be seen of 2013, that are sure to give you both a cultural, exciting and memorable experience time away.

North Africa After suffering with political unrest for many years, North Africa's most loved holiday resorts are more than safe, and a welcoming, friendly place to spend a holiday. Morocco is now proving to be more and more popular with intrigued travellers, hosting Marrakech as one of the most cultural and bustling holiday destinations there is. Agadir in Morocco is especially spectacular, holding beaches and historical sites. The country is full of flavour and fast paced activities, offering a perfect mix of both Arabia and Africa. Red sea holidays such as Egypt are also as hot as ever, being a great all rounder and a paradise for divers and snorkelling beginners. North Africa is also lucky enough to host the stunning country of Tunisia, home to many filming locations and celebrity hotspots. Without spending a fortune here, you'll get to taste theTunisian cuisine, as well as visit its world renowned ancient ruins such as Amphitheatres, cathedrals and religious sites.

Dominican Republic 

With the Dominican increasing its tourism visitors in 2012 by over 8%, we have seen more airlines jump on the bandwagon, offering flights here at lower prices than ever before. Not only is this a dream like and affordable destination to relax on, the Dominican Republic's coastlines are some of the most beautiful in the world. Usually destined as a place to get married or to spend a honeymoon, resorts such as Punta Cana and Puerto Plata can now be enjoyed by everybody. Here you will find extremely tranquil beaches, lagoons and private coves to swim in and take boat rides out of, as well as its secluded walking routes. Aside form its coastal culture, open valleys and fields are also wide open for you to enjoy, being home to lots of natural production. With a mix of the Maldives and France's countryside, there no better place to unwind. The Dominican Republic will always be a splurge and a treat, but a well deserved and memorable one.

Malta. Even though Malta is one of the smallest EU nations in population and in size, it holds stable and loveable Mediterranean climates. The country hosts a full hub of all things arty, great food and harbours which have slowly helped Malta on its way up the holiday ladder for educational yet stunning places to visit. With its Maltese culture surrounding newcomers everywhere they look, architecture and exhibitions reflect the early renaissance. With young students and couples after an informative break away, The Traditional Museum of Fine Arts located here should go down a treat, with spectacular seas and sands to go with it.

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Aspros Potamos, Crete

Aspros Potamos, situated in a stunning valley in Crete, Greece is a secret destination offering peace and tranquility. A place without traffic, mobile phones, or lights, it’s the perfect place to spend some quality time in a faraway place. Aspros Potamos is designed to create simplicity, and here will lead you to the historical village of Pefki, a place used in the Vietnam War times. The village was originally used to prepare wheat and barley and keep animals. The village is surrounded by stacked cottages, perfect for a romantic break alone. They are made of local stone, and each consisted of only two rooms. The miniature houses are drenched in an authentic atmosphere, and although you have no chance of drying your hair or having a shave, you’re bound to have an extraordinary break exploring the depth of a well-kept historical landmark together.

Lake Vinuela
We all know Costa Del Sol is famous for it's sandy beaches, but little do people know, it also offers a beautiful romantic attraction, Lake Vinuela. It has enticed holiday makers for many years, with a capacity of 170,000,000 cubic meters of water, the lake was created when the rivers Velez, Guaro, and Seco were dammed together. The lake thrives in a sense of hush as the public are left to discover what the lake has to offer. Scattered around the lake are paths that lead to dainty and delightful little villages, such as Canillas de Aceituno, Alcaucin, Periana, and. Riogordo. It is located fifteen minutes from the local town of Torre del Mar. Visit Lake Vinuala where the tiny romantic villages are perfect for couples to explore, and feel a real sense of adventure in an unexpected location.

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How to Make Your Favourite Holiday Cocktails!

How to make your favourite holiday cocktails!

We all know that what makes an all inclusive holiday that bit more special is the unlimited drinks we are able to take advantage of.

This is why we have shortlisted a few of your favourite drinks to show you exactly how to make them so you can re-live that dream holiday drinking experience in your garden whenever you like!

Crucial Cocktail Tackle

Cocktail Shaker

Cocktail Strainer

Cocktail Muddler

Mixing Spoon

1 x 25ml Measure

1 x 50ml Measure
1 x Sleek Cocktail Glass

You may also want to get a hold of a cocktail strainer to ensure that your drink will pour out perfectly into your favourite cocktail glass.

Cosmopolitan

What you'll need:

1 oz Vodka

1/2 oz Cointreau or Grand Marnier

1/2 oz Lime juice

1/2 oz Cranberry juice

How to do it:

Pour all of your ingredients into your cocktail shaker, and skae like crazy! Once your wrists start to hurt you can then pour the delicious mixture into your cocktail glass glass. Adding Crushed Ice and an umbrella to your drink will transfer this red happy juice into a real surprise to serve to your friends.

To serve: 

Add crushed iced to make this into a tasty long drink!

 

Pina Colada Recipe

What you'll need:

3 oz Rum/ Malibu

3 tbsp of Coconut milk

3 tbsp crushed pineapples

How to do it:

First pour in your crushed pineapple into the shaker, and make sure they're as small as you can get them. Then add in your Malibu and coconut milk to make sure all is creamy and consistent. Once you've done so, take your strainer to ensure no bits fall into your glass, and HEY PRESTO!

To Serve:

Try adding a few ice cubes into this swirl of yumminess. You could even top it off with squirty cream to make sure it looks and tasted just like the ones you've had on holiday.

Tequila Sunrise Cocktail Recipe

What you'll need:

2 oz Tequila

3/4 oz Grenadine

4 oz Orange Juice

How to do it:

Depending on how much alcohol and alcohol you' require, pur in the above mesurments to taste. (More Grenadine for stronger, More orange for weaker.) And mix it all up. Pour straight into your glass.

How to serve: 

Take a cocktail stick and on a glacier cherry and a slice of orange. Best tasted with a little something savoury!

Sex on the Beach Cocktail Recipe 

What you'll need:

1 oz Vodka

3/4 oz Peach Schnapps

2 oz Cranberry juice

2 oz Grape Fruit juice

How to do it:

Mix all of the above ingredients in your cocktail maker and again, stir. Simply as that.

How to serve:

Use lemon juice t created a frosted look on the sides of your glass, and no-one will ever know you've only just started to make your professional looking summer cocktail drinks.

Bloody Mary Cocktail Recipe 

What you'll need:

90ml of Tomato Juice or V8 juice

45ml of Vodka

2 drops of Tabasco Sauce

½ teaspoon of Worcestershire Sauce

A dash of lemon juices

A wedge of lime

A celery Stick

Freshly ground Black pepper

Ice cubes

How to do it:

Make sure that your glass is chilled before serving and start to place your tomato juice, vodka, worcestershire sauce, black pepper, lemon juice and ice cubs into your cocktail shaker. The strain these ingredients into your chilled cocktail glass. Add in your tabasco sauce to taste and give it one final stir with your plastic cocktail stick.

To serve:

Use a stick of celery or slice of lime to rest above the mixture, serving right away will make it extra yummy also.

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Family holidays in the Caribbean - Our top 3

We have all imagined the Caribbean, clear blue skies, warm sunshine and calm seas. It's the kind of holiday experience most don't think they will ever achieve however the good news is the Caribbean is becoming more affordable and also a  great option for families. In case you need a little more convincing here are 3 destination ideas, so whether you are looking for a romantic boutique style hotel or a fun for all the family resort, the Caribbean will have the holiday for you! Family holidays in the caribbean

Atlantis, Bahamas 

In Paradise Island in Atlantis their is an array of majestic and inspirational things to do that the whole family can enjoy. Its on site facilities and all inclusive hotels are becoming more and more famous, and is now well known for being a fantastic family all rounder. The main thing that stands out in Paradise Island is its water facilities, with endless chances to swim and take full advantage of its admirable beaches. Once you're here you will understand its popularity. 
Dolphin shows here are also spectacular, with many sanctuaries and performances constantly open and on the go for children to watch, as well as swim with them. Its home to one of the world's largest aquamarine centers too, especially 'Marine Habitat' that holds over 50,000 sea animals. Predator Lagoon is also said to be a great day out which is very similar where you'll even find black nosed sharks. You could even visit the amazing water park of 'Aquaventure' that is world famous, wild and great fun. In fact, you've probably seen a picture of it at some point in your life it looks that great!  To eat out here you're not expected to spend extortionate amounts as throughout the day you'll find many American influenced cafes selling doughnuts and burgers. On an evening you'll be able to find some yummy places to eat out too. 

Antigua 

Wherever you choose to stay in the Caribbean you'll be able to do things at your own pace and you'll get to relax. You'll find that Antigua's unspoilt grounds are spectacular and beaches out of this world. An Eastern Caribbean holiday here offers tours of the sea to eco adventures. More popular with older children rather than small babies and toddlers, animal lovers will be in their element here. In its wildlife areas you'll get to catch sight of some unique species especially if you choose to go snorkelling or visit a turtle beach. The National Parks of 'Nelson's Dockyard' and 'Shirley Heights' look right over the East of Antigua and look over its unbelievable beaches such as Moon Bay and Valley Church. There's even a donkey sanctuary here and many geological formations such as the 'Pillars of Hercules' and Hell's Gate that make it an educational place to visit too. You could try sailing, diving or visiting one of its many cultural food markets. 

Punta Cana, Dominican Republic 

Once only popular with honeymooners (or baby mooners if you like) it soon made its way into the books of versatility with travellers. On an evening you'll find that the resort comes alive with on-site entertainment, animation shows and dazzling fun in bars. You will even get to enjoy its restaurant cinemas and experience a flash way of life. Aside from this, Punta Cana's beauty will leave you in awe, without a shadow of a doubt. Its award winning beaches such as 'Bavaro Beach' are clear, well- maintained and there's always something happening on them. The Marinarium is a place in itself that's been loved for many years now and will allow you to take out boat tours and water activities which counts for a brilliant day out. There's opportunity to take out excursions to visit bodies of water and swim in them, as well as to pet baby seals. The Marati Park Bavaro is a brilliant zoo where you'll get to see animals such as flamingos, dolphins and parrots. 

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