Travel Archives - Nine to Three Thirty

Newcastle Essentials: Smooth Journeys from Arrival to Adventure in the City

Why spend a fortune and expend tons of energy on a holiday abroad when the United Kingdom is full of brilliant cities to visit and explore? But where should you go? We know of a city that is wonderful all year round and offers something new to see even if you’ve been there before. As you’ve probably already guessed from the title, we’re talking about Newcastle, or officially Newcastle upon Tyne. We’ve gathered some Newcastle essentials so that you can enjoy the most seamless and fun travel adventure without any worries or concerns.

Newcastle Airport Parking

If you’ve driven here, it’s a great idea to leave your vehicle at Newcastle Airport and explore the city without worrying about its safety and parking. A quick glance at the budget-friendly airport parking options in Newcastle through bookfhr.com will convince you that you have nothing to lose by taking that route. There is such a wide variety of parking services available that you can find the best deal for you, whether you are looking for the cheapest option or a more luxurious alternative. Once you find your ideal service, you should book it online so that you don’t have to worry later on about increases in prices and availability.

Exploring Newcastle

It is super easy to get from Newcastle Airport to Newcastle without having your own car. You can do that by using the available means of transport. There is an underground line that runs directly from Newcastle Airport to Newcastle city centre, with several key stops in between. Equally affordable and quick is the bus alternative, especially if there is no underground station near your final destination. You will even find buses that can take you to cities other than Newcastle. If you want to have total control of your journeys, you can take a taxi.

Newcastle Essentials

Once you reach Newcastle, make sure you don’t miss the following must-see and must-try items!

Landmarks

You can probably guess that Newcastle is a city where culture enthusiasts and history lovers will have the time of their lives. And you’re right since there are many attractions that highlight the city’s rich past. Some landmarks that you shouldn’t miss include the mediaeval Newcastle Castle, the vibrant Quayside, the family-friendly Discovery Museum, and the striking Grey Street.

Food and Drink

If you want to enjoy meals like a local, you should give the bars and restaurants at Quayside a go. Traditional Geordie dishes that must be incorporated into your diet during your stay in Newcastle include pease pudding, stotties, and pan haggerty.

Weather

You should keep in mind that Newcastle can be windy and rainy, so make sure to pack a sturdy umbrella and coat.

How does all that sound? Exciting, right? You can find even more information and Newcastle essentials on the Newcastle Airport website and book flights, accommodation, and parking right away.

Exploring Colorado with Kids: A Family Adventure Guide

Colorado’s soaring peaks, red rock landscapes and wealth of activities make it a premier destination for families. Known as the Centennial State, Colorado is a top destination for families looking for outdoor adventures. From hiking through red rock canyons to skiing down snow-capped peaks, the stunning scenery and limitless activities make Colorado a perfect place to vacation with kids. This family travel guide provides everything you need to plan an unforgettable trip.

When to Visit Colorado with Kids

One of the best parts of Colorado is the variety of seasons and activities they offer. The peak tourist season runs from June through August when families can take advantage of the warm weather to enjoy outdoor activities. For smaller crowds and lower prices, visit in the shoulder seasons of April-May and September-October.

Top Destinations and Activities

Colorado offers endless options for family fun. Here are some top spots for making memories:

Denver

When in Colorado, you must explore Denver. While there, take the kids to Denver Zoo to see exotic animals and ride the carousel. Next, tour the U.S. Mint and see how coins are made. At the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, you can immerse yourself in IMAX movies and interactive exhibits. Finally, the kids will love the rides at Elitch Gardens Theme & Water Park.

Rocky Mountain National Park

Just 90 minutes from Denver, Rocky Mountain National Park offers spectacular mountain scenery and an abundance of family-friendly activities. Drive the scenic Trail Ridge Road, hike through wildflower meadows and take the kids fishing at one of the lakes.

Colorado Springs

In Colorado Springs, ride the Pikes Peak Cog Railway to the 14,115-foot summit for panoramic views. Next, see the Garden of the Gods’ 800 colorful sandstone formations. You can also visit the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo and ride the chairlift. The kids will love cooling off at Glen Eyrie Castle’s swimming pool.

Breckenridge

In Breckenridge, ride the summer gondola to hike the Peaks Trail or go whitewater rafting on the Blue River. Pan for gold, ride the Alpine Slide and explore Main Street.

Great Sand Dunes National Park

At Great Sand Dunes National Park, let the kids run wild climbing and sledding down the ever-changing dunes. Splash in Medano Creek or hike the trails for spectacular views.

Family-Friendly Lodging

After adventure-filled days, families need comfortable accommodations. Here are some top lodging options:

The Sonnenalp – Vail

This family-friendly resort near the slopes offers a peaceful escape with babysitting services, kids’ TV channels and indoor play areas.

Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center – Aurora

This resort near Denver has indoor/outdoor pools with waterslides, a 2-acre adventure park and supervised kids’ activities.

The Arrabelle – Vail

Slopeside in Vail, this property has multi-room apartments with bunk beds ideal for families, along with childcare services.

The Hotel Jerome – Aspen

Near the gondolas in Aspen, this luxury hotel provides strollers, babysitters and family-friendly amenities.

Estes Park Cabins

For a cozy feel, book a cabin in Estes Park outside Rocky Mountain National Park, many with fireplaces and mountain views.

Budget Tips

Here are some ways to save money on a Colorado family vacation:

Rent a house and cook meals yourself
Buy bundled activity passes for discounted admission
Travel in the shoulder seasons for lower rates
Look for kids stay free deals and free shuttles at resorts
Get a national parks pass for entry to four Colorado parks
Book group rates for activities like rafting

With stunning scenery, exciting adventures and family-friendly vibes, Colorado is calling your family’s name. Use this comprehensive guide to start planning your dream Colorado vacation today and create lasting memories exploring this magnificent state together!

Boomerang tourism: how adult children and parents are rediscovering travel together

It has been a difficult few years for young people. Economic hardships that reach back to the 2008 financial crisis and have continued through austerity policies in the UK, Brexit and the Covid-19 pandemic have seen their buying power diminish. The Office for National Statistics found a 13.6% increase in adult children returning to live with their parents between the 2011 and 2021 national censuses – so-called ‘boomerang kids’ as a result of younger people struggling to afford their own homes.

Going hand-in-hand with this trend is the rise of ‘boomerang tourism’ – the pattern of adult children sharing holidays abroad with their parents. Data from Neilson Active Holidays found that over 41% of Brits aged 18-34 would join their parents on holidays if they asked, though for reasons that are only partly financial. For many, it proves a worthwhile experience beyond just making it easier to afford.

The desire for reconnection

The classic family holiday is often a source of treasured, formative memories for parents and children alike, and that appeal doesn’t disappear just because children reach adulthood. Indeed, as the cost-of-living crisis amplifies an already increasing cost of having children, young adults might look to boomerang tourism as an outlet for a family holiday without bringing youngsters of their own.

The potential for bonding experiences through travel isn’t diminished by mutual adulthood – and, in some ways, it can be enhanced. Some families returning to destinations they’d already visited when the children were young, for example, might discover a newfound appreciation for that time spent as they bring more mature perspectives to the experience. Parents and children can reminisce about their shared history while creating new memories together at the same time.

For any families who have naturally found contact time with each other reduced by the responsibilities of adulthood, coming together for a getaway can be an opportunity to renew those bonds and create a healthier long-term relationship.

Shared adventures, different perspectives

A cross-generational holiday can serve as a way for everyone involved to get more out of their destination by experiencing it through each other’s eyes. Parents and children may bring different attitudes and appreciations to family activity holidays that enrich those experiences for all involved. Planning such a trip when everyone is an adult with fully rounded interests can result in an itinerary that’s more fulfilling for everyone, starting from a place where everyone involved in decision-making feels more equal and listened to.

The knowledge that nobody on the trip needs to be supervised by each other also opens up more flexibility for people to split up at times and pursue attractions or activities that appeal more to them personally, reuniting for shared activities or dinner and relaxation in the evenings. While you’re likely to get more out of a family holiday by doing at least some of your planned activities together, the freedom to come and go can ease potential stress and keep things feeling independent.

4 reasons why Nottingham is a great place for families

Located in the centre of England, Nottingham is a vibrant city with excellent rail connections. It ranks highly among those best to raise a family in the UK for many different reasons. If you’re looking to move to a new location with your family, Nottingham may well be on your radar.

However, like with any major life decision, it’s important to do a bit of research first. To help you out, we discuss what makes this city a great place to raise a family and what you can expect from living here.

Excellent Education

Wherever you decide to move to, it’s vital you make sure that your child’s catchment school is up to standard. Fortunately, Nottingham has plenty of Ofsted-rated educational institutions, ranging from primary and secondary schools to higher education facilities.

With more students now choosing to live at home than stay in university accommodation, settling in Nottingham means your children have two world-class universities to choose from when the time comes.

Affordable Living

One of Nottingham’s standout features is how affordable it is, especially when compared to other major UK cities. The cost of housing in Nottingham is relatively low, with a wide range of property types suited to different family sizes and budgets. From spacious flats in the city centre to modern new builds in the surrounding areas, you’re sure to find the perfect home for your family.

One of the best areas in Nottingham is Beeston, a location that is in high demand. Its popularity comes from its close distance to local amenities and schools, as well as plenty of green spaces, which includes Beeston Fields.

Wollaton is also another great residential area for families, providing locals with plenty of shops and eateries. The suburb has top-notch transport links, with buses to the city centre running often.

Green Spaces

While the countryside isn’t something you’d typically picture when thinking of Nottingham, you couldn’t be more wrong. The city is surrounded by an abundance of green spaces, including parks, woodlands, and nature reserves.

Places like Colwick Country Park and Sherwood Forest offer the opportunity to head out on walks and picnics. Additionally, Nottingham’s proximity to the Peak District National Park and Yorkshire Dales provides even more options for day trips and outdoor adventures.

Family-friendly activities

The last thing you want is to live somewhere with nothing to do on the weekends. Fortunately, Nottingham caters to families with a wide range of attractions and activities. You’ve got museums like the Nottingham Natural History Museum to bowling and adventure gold in The Cornerhouse.

For something a little different, there’s also Go Ape Treetop Adventure at Sherwood Pines. It’s a great day out with some challenging obstacles that are designed with all ages in mind.