In case you were wondering, the biggest reason tourists flock to the immensely picturesque Icelandic town of Reykjavík in winter is not because the city’s an absolute hoot when basking in 22 hours of darkness every day (which it is), but it’s because this town is one of the best places on earth to watch the mystical Aurora Borealis, or Northern Lights as they are most commonly referred to.

There’s something incredibly magical about seeing the Northern Lights in full action, the Japanese going as far as believing that any child conceived under the bewitching vision will enjoy a long, healthy and blessed life. Only problem will be convincing your loved one to get indoors for some sexy-times during the impressive yet sometime elusive light show; the Northern Lights are far too mesmerizing to walk away from!

Travelling to Reykjavik in the heart of winter is an immensely rewarding experience, not only will you have the best of the city’s winter sport action at your beck and call (dog sledding anyone?) but you’ll also have the chance to experience one of our planet’s most beautiful phenomena. Want to do something really spectacular next winter? Then book your holiday rental apartment in Reykjavik, pack your thermals and experience something which will really blow you way.

The facts behind the Aurora Borealis

If you’re one of the many people who have always heard of the Northern Lights, but have always been a little embarrassed to admit you don’t actually know what they are, don’t fret. We didn’t either until we looked it up! (It’s ok, no one saw us do it).

To make it short and sweet: the Northern Lights occur when super-charged electron particles, emitted by the sun, collide with the upper most layer of our planet’s atmosphere. The resulting energy created by this ‘collision’ is what emits light…the chemical composition of the atoms which are struck by the electrons particles determine the colour: green/red flares result from oxygen particles, and purple/blue from nitrogen.

(Ha! How simple was that?? Now feel free to impress the crowds at your next dinner party)

Of course, the facts are so much more complex than the above paragraph, but considering you are planning to go there on holiday, not to become a world leading astronomer, we trust the condensed version will suffice!

Best time to see them?

Hmm…at night. Just kidding!

Solar emissions are obviously continuous, yet of course come this far north in summer and the constant daylight makes it impossible for you to see any dancing lights in the sky. The months between October and March are the ‘Northern Lights season’ In Reykjavík but of course nothing can be guaranteed. Things like cloud cover and lack of strong solar flares can also subdue the effects so book your holiday in Reykjavik in winter and use this nifty daily forecast website to see what kind of activity is likely on any given day.

Best way to see them

Rugging up and going for a walk around town may seem like a good idea at first, until you realize that the city’s light pollution greatly diminishes viewing. Instead, head out of town with a rental car or taxi and try to reach the darker hills of nearby parks. You could also join a brilliant Northern Lights Viewing Cruise which leaves from Reykjavik’s port, or join one of the many 4WD tours on offer in town.

It may be worth mentioning that solar activity is unusually high at the moment, (solar emissions seem to peak once a decade or so), so book your getaway pronto!

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There’s usually just one main reason people who visit Zermatt and the sublime Matterhorn chose to stay in Winkelmatten: it’s cheaper. Yet there’s is so much more to this gorgeous hilltop village, then its superlative convenience, that it deserves an extra plug. Yes, everything about Winkelmatten is cheaper than Zermatt, from the little supermarket to the holiday rental chalets and the restaurants, yet it is also a 10 minute walk-away from Zermatt’s attractions, which is a fine time when going downhill, but hard work when coming back uphill. So…is it really just the prices which bring people back here? We don’t think so!

Switzerland is one of the most expensive countries in Europe so we figure if people head to Zermatt they won’t mind spending a little extra to stay in the town centre if that’s what they want…but not all do. As picturesque and delightful as Zermatt is, it can get overcrowded in high season; it boasts a very healthy nightlife (which just spells late, loud nights for the hotels on the main street) and it can be hard to find a nice relaxing spot for a dinner out, away from the myriad of other tourists. Those who choose to stay in Winkelmatten don’t mind the walk after a full day’s skiing (not only can you leave all your gear at the station overnight for a small fee, but the walk does a great job in stretching your muscles), enjoy the utterly peaceful and quiet ambience and have discovered some of the best places for a little R&R in the evenings. Convinced much? Book your delightful holiday chalet or apartment in Winkelmatten when next visiting Zermatt and come check out the following wonderful places.

The sundowner with a view

First of all, forgive us, but you’re going to share this place with quite a few people. The sun-drenched terrace of the Buffet Bar Sunnegga is a magnet for many who visit Zermatt! But luckily for you, they’ll have to hike all the way back into town, whilst you and your loved one can sit back, enjoy the glorious views along with a sundowner or two. The splendid hut was built in the 40s but recently renovated in keeping with the rustic style of the area. The restaurant boasts a huge outdoor veranda and several indoor lounges, ideal for a cognac in front of the fireplace in a cold winter’s night.The food served is the usual Swiss fare, including goulash and fondue; however since it has gone self-service we must say the quality has dropped just a tad. Regardless, head here for a spot of thirst-quenching after skiing and you won’t be disappointed. If travelling with kids, the spagh-bog is a good way to satisfy their appetite.

The Best Fish Soup in the World!

In Cervinia, on the Italian side of the slopes is where you’ll find what even the Telegraph described as ‘one of the best mountain restaurants in the world’. What we will attest, is that Chalet Etoile serves the best mussels and scampi soup in the world, no exceptions! The restaurant’s bar grub is to die for and replenishes the soul as well as your body, ideal when you’re spending full days on the slopes from Winkelmatten. Plus, you can simply ski to this divine joint for lunch! Did we mention the fish soup? Yes, it’s that good; it is the one dish which has literally propelled this small family-run restaurant into mountain-superstardom…so don’t miss trying it.

Dinner with a View

For a magical dining and Matterhorn viewing experience, head to the Restaurant-Suite Sonnmatten, right next to the bus stop in Winkelmatten. Here, you can enjoy superlative sweeping views of the majestic peak, along with delectable Swiss food and hospitality from the friendly owners. Decorated in the beautifully cosy way this area is renowned for, the restaurant is as charming as can be. The menu is extensive and most of the produce is local so you’ll get super-fresh ingredients and heart-warming meals. On a clear sunny day, head here as the sun is setting and enjoy a sundowner out the front veranda before moving indoors for your meal. Simply superb!

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The Adriatic jewel of Dubrovnik, the most famous of all Croatian coastal towns, has been the playground of Italian and German holiday makers for well over three decades. It is only in the last few years that tourists the world over have caught on to the magical spell this most picturesque old town possesses. Not only is Dubrovnik insanely beautiful, but it boasts a colourful past and showcases its history with zealous flair. When it comes to mixing natural and architectural beauty, this Croatian gem gives the more venerated Italian city of Venice some seriously stiff competition. Book your holiday rental accommodation in Dubrovnik for your next vacation and not only will you enjoy splendid sunshine and delectable seafood, but you’ll also be privy to one of the most interesting cities in Europe.

Dubrovnik’s historic centre is set on a high cliff above the sea and is surrounded by wonderfully preserved old city walls. The most popular activity here is to walk all the way around the walls. Not only will you gain a much greater understanding of just how big this walled town once was, but the walk offers the most amazing views of the city’s skyline and the pristine waters of the Adriatic. There are some steep steps to climb, and the 2km walk can be unbearably hot on a summer’s day, but if you bring along plenty of water and take your time we promise you it will be infinitely rewarding.  There are three access points to the walls, one is at the Pile gate, another at the Custom’s House gate and the last can be found by St John’s Fort. At the port end of the walk you’ll find the most idyllic little cafe from where iconic snaps of the photogenic city can be taken.

Once you’re ready to descend into the maze of the old town, be prepared to get completely lost! The centre itself may be a pedestrian dream, but navigating it is always fraught with comical nightmares. Finding your way around, and out, is an almost impossible mission! Alleyways are numerous and miniscule, signs are out of date and keeping your bearings is a totally futile exercise. But this adds to the fun! So join the crowds in discovering the hidden corners and get hopelessly lost. When you do find your way, don’t forget to visit the many towers, palaces and museums the town is home to. The Cathedral of the Virgin Mary is an impossible-to-miss landmark and should be explored at length. The gorgeously baroque-style plaza just outside is always a hub of activity, and especially on Saturdays when market stalls fill all of its nearby alleyways.

If you’d like to admire this protruding city from the sea, and are a little game, why not have a go at sea kayaking? In summertime, the port fills with kayak rental companies vying for your patronage and offering an array of different trips. Learn, rent and paddle on your own, or join a sunset tour group for greater security. If you’ve never kayaked before, don’t worry, you’ll have a chance to practice at length before being allowed out unaccompanied. Once you get the hang of it, you may well discover that the biggest challenge will be giving the kayak back. Fill your vessel with a bottle of wine and some cheese, head out to sea and watch the crimson sun descend over Dubrovnik.

Does life get any better than that?

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If planning to stay in Camden on your next London break, it’s safe to say you like things a little different. Trendy, definitely; eclectic, perhaps…maybe even edgy? Great to hear! This most interesting and enticing London hood has seen quite a few facelifts over the years and seems to have settled on fashionably shabby chic. Between the markets, oddball boutiques and kick-ass live-music scene, Camden attracts crowds from every one of the city’s extremities now that its popularity is on a very steep incline. Choose Camden holiday rental apartments for your next break in London and you can experience its funky soul for breakfast, lunch and dinner.  Head to the following fantastic pubs when you’re out and about and come see what the Camden fuss is all about.

Dublin Castle, 94 Parkway

This Camden institution boasts a bit of a split-personality syndrome: head there for a relaxing mid-afternoon pint in peace and enjoy the historic ambience (or a spot of people watching from the outdoor tables) or head here after the sun sets for live music and a rowdy, jovial crowd. Whatever mood you’re in there’s bound to be the right time to visit the Dublin Castle Pub.  The live music room is tiiiiny and can get a bit claustrophobic, but you could always just hop into the bar area for a breather between acts. The selection of beer on tap is sufficiently broad and the bar unfortunately offers no nibblies which may be the only bummer. Cover bands are mostly unknown, yet of stellar quality and DJs rock on after the bands on week-ends.

Crown & Goose, 100 Arlington Road

This corner pub’s interior is wickedly outdated, which makes it utterly authentic and really very charming. No matter what anyone else says! Way off the beaten path, this wooden emporium offers a fantastic Sunday roast, which acts as a magnet for all the young local hipsters who obviously miss mum’s cooking. The prefect local (ideal if it actually is your local) the C&G offers good old-fashioned pub grub and a nice selection of ales, as well as some rather delicious Bloody Marys to be honest. Very retro and casual, somewhat rough around the edges: the perfect diamond in the rough. If you want to wine and dine with company head here on a Friday night, it’s super buzzy!

The Hawley Arms, 2 Castlehaven Road

Somewhere between the C&G and the Dublin Castle lies the Hawley Arms. Metaphorically speaking. Geographically speaking, you’ll find this pub just around the corner from the Camden markets, which is ideal if you need a refreshing (or warming) drink during your shopping expedition. The decor is cool yet fresh, the staff young and friendly and both the kitchen and the flowing taps excellent. The Hawley Arms is welcoming, without trying too hard. The comfy seating just begs to be occupied for a whole afternoon; the newspapers scattered around the table hint at the fact that the host does not mind one bit if you do. Another splendid Sunday roast option, this pub also serves some delectable pies. This used to be Amy Winehouse’ local, and still boasts her jukebox, and while it attracts something of a tourist-crowd for that reason alone, they tend to be in and out quick after a photo op, leaving the real pub goers to it. Let’s hope all the attention won’t go to its head…best get here quick just in case.

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Irish playwright George Bernard Shaw once said that if it were paradise you were looking for, you should visit Dubrovnik. This Croatian coastal haven is arguably the prettiest destination in the entire Mediterranean region, and has been seducing visitors for hundreds of years. An impossibly picturesque city centre, standing precariously on a precipitous cliff, is just one of the many reasons why tourists flock here on a yearly basis. Add to that a deliciously temperate climate, crystal clear beaches, superlative restaurants and a plethora of gorgeous islands nearby and you’ve got yourself a mighty impressive holiday destination.

Book your holiday rental apartment or villa in Dubrovnik this year and come discover it all!

It may be hard to tear yourself away from the town, but do make sure you venture onto the following nearby islands for a day-trip with a difference. All the islands can be reached by a short ferry-ride from Dubrovnik port and while they are all insanely beautiful, each has its own charm and character to discover.

Lokrum

The island of Lokrum would be best described as the picture-perfect Mediterranean island, and is ideal for anyone who wants to enjoy the natural side of this coastline in complete and utter serenity. There may not seem to be much on the island, but that is precisely its appeal. Inhabited by peacocks and endemic birdlife, the entire island is one, huge, tropical forest complete with luminous swimming holes, long  and leisurely walking tracks and secretive hidden nooks ideal for fishing or siesta-ing. The island is home to a nudist beach, a beachside cafe’ and a gorgeous old fort and monastery which are well worth exploring. Pack a picnic basket full of delicious goodies and head here for a day of sun-loving away from the crowds.

Korčula

Korčula may be more developed than Lokrum, but it is no less divinely appealing. It is quite populated, more so than any other island on the Adriatic in fact, but boasts so many different attractions that it is often rated as the most interesting island to visit in Croatia. If it’s more than just beaches you’re after on a day-trip from Dubrovnik, certainly make this a priority.

Korčula was the holiday spot of choice for the Greeks for over two millennia, and is home to ancient ruins and even Neolithic-era archaeological sites. The main town, named after the island, is like a miniature fortress and is an enticing maze to get lost in. This is, apparently, where Marco Polo was born and the town is littered with references to the great explorer. Korčula boasts a long and illustrious history and is home to many interesting museums and cultural centres. You can certainly spend an entire day here and of course there are still plenty of pristine beaches to rest your weary legs after a full morning’s exploration.

Mljet

Mljet Island is home to a superb National Park and is one of the best islands to pedal around in, so head here if you’re in the mood for a little active fun on your holiday. The incredibly green isle is home to stunning salt water lakes, vineyards, quaint villages and (yet again) a myriad of simply marvellous beaches. Almost two thirds of Mljet has been left in its natural state, and the lack of development here gifts it a most wild and unspoilt ambience. Bicycles can be hired at the ferry wharf when you first arrive, but be aware that the NP attracts an entrance fee of 70 Kuna.

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If you’ve never visited the Portuguese city of Porto, we have just one question for you. What on earth are you waiting for?? Have you not heard that the 2001 European Capital of Culture is one of the most exciting and rewarding holiday destinations in Europe? No? Well…lucky we’re here then.

Porto may be renowned as simply the birthplace of port wine, yet the city is fast emerging as a titillating holiday destination. And why not? The wine may take centre stage (as it always should), yet the town itself offers an impressively long list of fun activities to do, and brilliant attractions to admire. Plus, it’s oh so pretty! Set amidst luxuriant hills and flanking both sides of the River Douro, Porto is an enticing destination indeed. Here, you can lose yourself in the cobbled alleyways of a 1500 year old historic city centre, savour the very best of Portuguese gastronomy, shop till you drop in chic boutiques and enjoy an effervescent nightlife scene most European cities can only dream of. Have we got your attention now?

Stay nice and close to the action when visiting Porto and book your holiday rental apartment in Boavista, just a skip away from the most central area. While the city may not boast an infinite list of must-see landmarks, it does offer some rather unique must-do experiences. Our favourite? Well, that would be devouring a Francesinha sandwich!

It’s not often we rave about a sandwich, but when the snack in question happens to be rated ‘one of the 10 best sandwiches in the world’ we admit it probably deserves an honourable mention. The Francesinha is one of the most authentic dishes ever to come out of Porto and we urge anyone to try it at least once during a visit to the port town.

Not for the faint-hearted (or anyone suffering from high-blood pressure, high-cholesterol, diabetes, sanity etc) this most humongous weight-watchers-unapproved meal consists of two slices of bread (this is where the sandwich connection ends) filled with spicy sausages, roast beef and cured ham, all topped with melted cheese and surrounded by a generous mound of piping hot French fries. To top it all off, the concoction is served floating in a special sauce made with tomatoes, spices and beer. Yep…beer. How’s that for convenience? You can eat and drink your meal in one swift move!

Although this most unique epicurean delight has been somewhat exported to other Portuguese cities, its origins are intrinsically tied to its birthplace, and it is here in Porto where you can indulge in the best Francesinhas in the whole country.

The infamous sauce is a well-guarded secret, usually passed down through the generations, and the sandwich itself a target of much-beloved discussions among locals. The best place to try it? Well that’ll depend on who you ask! Considering there is no ‘original’ recipe to go on, the variations found around town are near endless. Visit a riverside cafe’ and they may well replace the meat with codfish and prawns, head to a hilly suburb and you may find the Francesinha filled with mushrooms instead. Some restaurants will fry the sandwich in butter while others have taken to baking it in a wood-fire oven; perhaps trying to attract the more modern health-conscious clientele.

The once working-man meal has also received a facelift in recent years, and more sophisticated versions of the Francesinha, some including lobster and champagne, can now be found on the menus of some of the city’s premier 5* restaurants.

Whichever version you chose, we’re pretty sure this is one local meal you won’t forget in a hurry.

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The very first thing which strikes tourist, upon arrival on Greece’s largest island, is its incredible diversity. Not just an epitome beach, mountain hiking, cultural hub OR historic destination…but all of those things combined. Whether it’s a relaxing seaside break you’re after, or to dive deep into the history of this ancient culture or its natural wonders, Crete offers activities and attractions to satisfy even the most discriminating traveller.

It’s true that the northern coast has been somewhat overtaken by tourist resorts, yet it’s the superlative choice of holiday rental apartments in Crete which make it an ideal destination for those who wish to get off the beaten path just a little.

Due to the divine landscape and relative small size of the island, bicycle riding is still the preferred mode of transport. The isle’s innumerable riding paths make it ever so easy to explore it at length and for days on end. Get lost in the multitude of olive groves, discover hidden village sand alcoves and stop often to savour the tastes and smells of this rich and fertile gem.

The island of Crete is divided into four prefectures, and each one has its own special attractions. There are bike rental offices all over the isle, and some of the largest car rental companies also offer bikes for hire. While these companies run organised bike tours, there’s really no reason why you shouldn’t go it alone. Packing a picnic basket with some of Crete’s most delicious produce (like Graviera cheese, smoked ham, pickled olives and ripe juicy tomatoes), and setting off into the impossibly picturesque horizon will make for unforgettable holiday tales.

While most people will be more than happy to simply hop on a saddle and ride into the wind, following are just a few of our favourite cycling routes in Crete.

The Bay of Elounda on the eastern coast is absolutely splendid, and gifts spectacular views for those willing to climb up the mountainous side for a while. The 33knm southern route from Elounda to Kavousi is a bikers dream, and we particularly love riding in this direction because Kavousi is possibly the smallest village in Crete and perfect for that after-ride romantic picnic.

Whichever way you wish to reach the historic town of Knossos (and its incredible archaeological sites) will certainly be more than simply breathtaking.  The northern coastline is awe inspiring but you will have to have your wits about you as you may encounter heavier traffic up this way.

There’s also a gorgeous stretch of northern road ideal for those who don’t want to break any Olympic cycling records whilst on holiday, yet still see something during the ride. The 20km long ride from Rethymno to Arkadi will see you cross a mesmerising forest of enormous oak trees, and see you end your trip (or at least the half way point) at the gorgeous Arkadi Monastery.

For a really fun ride out with friends, take your bikes from the town of Chania in north-western Crete and take the half an hour ride to the inland town of Vatolakkos. Here is where you’ll find Manousakis Winery, one of the best boutique wine houses in Crete. Book a private tour of the premises and a delicious wine tasting too! Just do make sure you have plenty of solid lunch supplies to absorb the alcohol and make sure you won’t be riding back on the wrong side of the road!

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Overwhelming, awe-inspiring and at times utterly confusing: these are possibly the best ways to describe Moscow. Yet many first time visitors soon notice an uncanny resemblance to London; both cities spread out far and wide, are not necessarily picturesque but both are brimming with effervescent vitality and a fast-paced personality. Modern skyscrapers blend in seamlessly with ancient and historic buildings, yet it’s the abundance of green spaces, and luminous Orthodox domed-churches, which makes Moscow an utterly unique European capital to visit.

Red Square is the most historic centre of Moscow, and has been so for hundreds of years. The site of revolutions, executions, demonstrations and celebrations is the most central part of Russia, from where all of the country’s roads commence. Flanked by the colossal walls of the Kremlin, St. Basil’s Cathedral and GUM (Russia’s largest department store), Red Square is the beating heart of Moscow and an excellent base from where to explore the city centre and its surrounds. Book your holiday rental apartment near Red Square when next in Moscow and don’t miss visiting the three most historic attractions in Russia.

St Basil’s Cathedral

No building in Moscow is more prominent, or eye catching, than the nine-domed Cathedral of St. Basil’s on Red Square. The colossal multi-coloured structure is the most iconic of all Russian symbols, although even to this day no expert can ascertain what architectural style it reflects, or what the creation of nine chapels is meant to represent. Indeed to some, St. Basil’s Cathedral may seem like a pure and unabashed attempt at showing off opulence and power. Built by order of Ivan the Terrible in 1552, to commemorate his defeat of the Mongols in Kazan, St. Basil’s Cathedral remains an enigma to both the layman and the trained historian. Legend has it that Ivan had the eyes of the builders gouged out upon completion of the church, to ensure they could never again build something as grand as this.

In all fairness, however, the cathedral we admire today is not exactly original. Various additions and restructures were made over the next two hundred years, and the rainbow hued paintwork did not appear until the 1860s. Restoration works of the past few decades have revealed hidden vaults, staircases and even entire concealed floors. Once doomed to be demolished by order of Stalin, who wanted more space on Red Square for his immense parades, St. Basil’s was saved thanks to the gallant effort of the contracted demolisher, who simply refused to follow orders in the name of culture and history. This little deed of defiance may have cost Pyotr Baranovsky five years’ imprisonment, yet saved the cathedral from becoming part of Moscow’s past.

St. Basil’s Cathedral is also home to a fantastic museum; plan to spend a few hours navigating the complex labyrinth of intricately adorned chapels, and consider joining an English speaking guided tour to get the most out of your visit.

The tomb of Lenin

While it may be safe to assume not everyone wants to get a glimpse of an off-coloured deceased man on vacation, we do urge you to make this one visit to the embalmed remains of Lenin when exploring Red Square. The marble mausoleum on the foot of the Kremlin wall has been here since the leader’s death in 1924 and has caused more than a few near-revolutions since its inception, making it an historic attraction par excellence.

Even though Lenin had expressly requested to be buried next to his mother in St Petersburg, Stalin refused to relinquish his body to his widow upon his death, and instead commissioned scientists to invent an embalming technique which would prevent excessive decomposition.  His wish, to showcase the father of the revolution in a glass coffin, was eventually granted; however odd the preservation technique may have seemed. Although the process remained a state secret for decades, it was later revealed than embalmers washed Lenin’s body every few days, and submerge it in a cocktail of acid and paraffin wax every year, to maintain him looking as yellowy and waxy as ever.

This blatant disrespect of Lenin’s wishes has caused outrage and quite a few demonstrations in the last century, and the topic of contention has recently resurfaced. If you do wish to visit this most historic ‘attraction’, make a beeline for the mausoleum on your next Moscow vacation, as there’s a good chance it may not be here for much longer.

The Kremlin Wall

Never has a cemetery been more bizarre than the north-eastern wall of the Kremlin, bordering on Red Square. Initially meant to contain the burial grounds of prominent members of the military and government, the wall itself became one massive burial site soon after the Bolshevik Revolution. Once it became apparent that there would not be enough room to bury all the leaders and members of the revolution within the wall boundaries, bodies were interred in the wall itself for all eternity. Nowadays, the wall is the final resting place of over 100 famous people, both Russian and foreign, including astronaut Yuri Gagarin, American Communist Party founder Charles Rutenberg and American journalist John Reed.

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As far as history is concerned, there’s no city in the world quite like Paris. Boasting a colourful past and equally flamboyant present, there’s no corner of the city which is not an embodiment of ancient tales. Montmartre, the epicentre of the 18^th arrondissement, is possibly the most historic area of Paris, and one of the most visited.

If you’re looking for a holiday apartment rental in Paris for your next holiday, we urge you to look closely at Montmartre. Thanks to the exceptional Parisienne Metro it is ever so easy to get around town, but your evening walks will be much more authentic and enjoyable, considering you’ll be far from the touristy crowds and the bright lights of the city centre.

Montmartre is best known as the home of the Sacre-Coeur Basilica, a spectacular white-domed church sitting atop the most infamous hill in Paris. Climbing endless stairs to reach it is well rewarding as the church grounds gift fantastic views of greater Paris. But the church is considered a recent addition to the city’s skyline as it was built merely a century ago. The hill on which it is built however, boasts a much more impressive history than that!

The Romans thought this just the perfect place to build Temples in honour of Mercury and Mars and did not appreciate coming face to face with the world’s first Christian missionaries (at the beginning of the first millennia), who tried to condemn, and destroy, these pagan symbols. Off with their heads it was, right on this very hill! Legend has it that St Denis, considered by Christians to be Paris’ first ever martyr, picked up his own head, washed it off and walked with it for 8kms until he collapsed, right on the spot where the Basilica of St Denis now stands.

As is normally the case following Christian martyrdom, the hill quickly became a site for faithful pilgrims to visit. Illustrious personalities such as St Joan of Arc, St Vincent de Paul and St Germain founded the Society Of Jesus, or the Jesuits Order as it is now known, right on this very hill.

As the centuries passed, the hill of Montmartre not only retained, and strengthened, its religious importance, but adopted a military importance second to none. The exquisite location proved to be an excellent vantage point from which to bomb and attack conquering foreigners. During the 1590 Siege of Paris, Henry IV made this his headquarters of artillery operations, as did the invading Russians who took over the area during the Battle of Paris in 1814. A peculiar bit of trivia here…apparently, Montmartre’s new hosts were not particularly fond of the customer service in the area’s bars, shouting for faster service incessantly. The word for this in Russian was ‘bistro’ and that’s where the modern term was born!

The French were yet again occupied by a foreign army in the late 1800’s, this time the German one. The Basilica Sacre-Coeur was then built to commemorate the fallen and to serve as a reminder of the city’s struggle for independence.

It was not long before local nuns began producing wine and the area soon became a magnet for dubious and risqué behaviour. Of course, Montmartre is still very much the ‘red light’ district of Paris, being home to the famous Moulin rouge and an infinite amount of sex shops and galleries.

Visit Paris on your next holiday and come see for yourself why a step in Montmartre is a step back in time.

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Haight-Ashbury is renowned as one of San Francisco’s most fashionable suburbs. The hippie, chic and anything-goes attitude translates to all the attractions on offer; be it entertainment, food or shopping. Some of the city’s trendiest boutiques are found here and Haight St, the suburb’s main hub, has enough to keep even the most discerning tourist spellbound for days (if not weeks) on end. Book your holiday rental apartment in Haight-Ashbury and you can be guaranteed a titillating and colourful stay. To help give your holi-days a jump start, we’ve compiled a guide to the very best brunch spots around; so dig in, fill up and explore!

The Little Chihuahua, 292 Divisadero St

This Mexican institution in Haight is not your run of the mill greasy burrito joint, but rather a modern, fresh establishment offering amazing favourites with unique and tasty spins. For a bumper start to your day, gorge on the Mexican French Toast, a delectable mix of bacon and plantain tortilla smothered in orgasmic (sorry, we meant organic) maple and agave syrup or, the ever popular huevos motulenos which is a corn-chip version of the well known huevos rancheros.
If you’re suffering the evil effects of a wicked night out, then go for the breakfast of champions and order the super burrito instead.

The Grind Café, 783 Haight St

A crowd pleaser for over 15 years, the Grind offers organic and locally grown produce and fantastic premium roasted coffee for that perfect morning pick me up.

The Grind offers a yummy choice of scramblies (served a dozen different ways), and just as many types of omelettes.

Dive into a delicious stack of buttermilk pancakes, filled with juicy blueberries or anything else your little taste buds desire; or splurge on delectable French toast soaked in a vanilla, cinnamon and egg batter. The Grind Café is the kind of place you need to visit if a carb-fest is what you crave.

There are three reasons why the Grind has survived this long on such a competitive street: the food is superb, the portions very generous and the prices more than reasonable. Triple tick.

Enjoy the outdoor eating area and combine your brunch with the people-watching Haight St is so famous for.  If you want to secure an outdoor table, get here before 10am.

Squat and Gobble, 237 Fillmore & 1428 Haight St

This café may boast a bit for a weird name, perhaps more apt to the Kamasutra than to a café, but all is forgiven when considering that the brunch specials are so good, the owners had to open TWO cafés in Haight!

S&G specializes in brunch and offers weekly specials including the house jewels: crêpes. Soft, fluffy and utterly delectable, these pockets of deliciousness are enough to make you weep for more. Luckily you can get more, a lot more, at Squat and Gobble! So many savoury and sweet varieties adorn the menu that we have the sneaking suspicion one could easily spend a San Francisco holiday surviving on crêpes alone. Mix and match your crêpe adding one of the myriad of ingredients on offer and you can make your own lip-smacking concoction come to life. Fresh, strong coffee tops the cake and the open air seating makes this, one of our faves indeed.

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