TRAVEL TIPS BELGIUM

SAFETY FIRST

In an emergency dial: 112

International dialing code: +32

British Embassy

Rue d'Arlon 85 Aarlenstraat
1040 Brussels
Tel: (+32) (0) 2287 6211

Cultural etiquette in Belgium is very similar to The Netherlands and Germany but the following advice applies particuarly to Belgians.  Check my safety tips page for general travelling advice when abroad.

• If you bring flowers be sure to they are given in an odd number, but not 13.  Also older Belgians prefer flowers to be unwrapped.
• Do not give white chrysanthemums as they signify a death.
• Before sipping your drink at a dinner party, wait for your host to give a toast.
• Never leave any food on your plate, it is considered wasteful and bad manners.
• If you praise your host's cooking abilities, they will see it as a sincere compliment and you will most probably be asked to dinner again.
• Always wait for a woman to be seated first if you are a man.
• Subtlety is preferred by Belgians over directness.  Its shows intelligence and tact.

Tipping is included in the final bill, but if the service was excellent, then a 5-10% gratuity will be appreciated.

BELGIAN CLIMATE

The Belgian climate is moderate, with mild winters and warm summers.  There are spells of rain throughout the year and it can be rather humid and cloudy.

COST OF LIVING IN BELGIUM

The Belgian economy is internationally focussed and is securely established in the EU.  There is a fixed minimum wage.  Belgium's education system is highly cultivated and the people here are multi-lingual. As a result of this the standard of living is high.  The following grocery list is taken from a Belgian Aldi Supermarket which you can find in many countries around Europe.

200g Grated cheese - €1.19
10 x 20cl Fresh orange juice - €1.55
6 Free range eggs - €1.09
200g Brie - €0.99
200g Olives - €1.69
Bottle of wine - €2.99
1kg Frozen fish - €3.99
1kg fresh mussels - €4.99

TRAVEL TIPS THE NETHERLANDS

SAFETY FIRST

Dial 112 for emergency services.

International dialing code +31

British Embassy
Lange Voorhout 10
2514 ED The Hague
Tel: +31 (0) 70 4270 427

Check my safety tips page for general travelling advice when abroad.  Whilst in the Netherlands please bear the following tips in mind.

• The Dutch culture is egalitarian, modern and individualistic.
• They are modest, independent, hard-working and value education.
• The Dutch are multi-lingual, the majority of Dutch people can speak 3 or more languages.
• Living the 'high life' is considered wasteful and frowned upon in the Netherlands.
• Finger-snapping at restaurants is considered extremely rude.
• If you are invited to the home of a Dutch person, please be on time and bring a small gift like chocolates or flowers.
• The Dutch are conservative and formal in nature, avoid brash and loud behaviour in public, for example, shouting to a friend across the street.
• It is deemed rude to talk to others with your hands in your pockets or to chew gum in public.
• When meeting someone, a firm handshake whilst using your host's title and surname are expected.
• Whilst political talk is a popular subject; religion, drugs and legalized prostitution are most certainly not!
• Never criticize the Dutch royal family.

TIPPING

In restaurants, a service charge is included in the final bill, but an extra 5 - 10% for excellent service will always be appreciated.  Taxi costs are very high in the Netherlands, so tipping is at your discretion.

DUTCH CLIMATE

Summertime in the Netherlands can enjoy long periods of sun then become quite clammy due to increases in atmospheric pressure often followed by thunderstorms, then the cycle repeats itself.  May to August offer the most sunshine.  Rainfall is spread evenly throughout the year with the odd the storm presenting itself.  Temperatures in the winter drop to around the freezing mark.

COST OF LIVING IN THE NETHERLANDS

Comparisons on the cost of living in the Netherlands varies, the following are essential for backpackers or travellers on a budget.

6 Free range eggs - €0.99
1.5 ltr Vanilla ice cream - €2.29
475g Pasta sauce - €0.99
4 Fresh beefburgers - €2.99
300g Rump steak - €4.99
250ml Fruit smoothie - €0.99
1kg Quick cook rice - €1.79
Medium chicken - €4.99
1kg Fresh cream Gateau - €3.49
450g Strawberry jam - €0.89
Cooked German sausage - €1.09
150g Streaky bacon - €1.09

TRAVEL TIPS GERMANY

SAFETY FIRST

For emergencies dial 110 (police) 112 (fire and ambulance)

International Dialing Code +49

British Consulate

Yorckstrasse 19

40476 Düsseldorf
(49) (211) 9448-0

Check my safety tips page for general travelling advice when abroad.  Whilst in Germany please bear the following tips in mind.

• Germans adhere great importance to punctuality.  If you are visiting friends or business colleagues, you will win their favour by reaching your destination on time!
• If you are visiting friends and want to put a smile on their faces, remove your shoes before you enter, bring a bottle of wine and a bunch of flowers.
• Always shake hands with every German you meet; and every time you meet them again. This is normal and good manners.
• Germans are very conscientious of their environment. Never throw litter on the streets.
• Before you start a meal say 'Guten Apetit', it will be much appreciated.
• Germans do not acknowledge whispering as rude.  They respect your privacy.
• Chewing gum whilst talking to someone (except for peers) is considered rude.
• German beer is strong!  Pace yourself! It is deemed unacceptable to be very drunk in public.

TIPPING

A service charge of 15 percent is included in the menu price at bars and restaurants throughout Germany. However, it is normal to round up the final amount by mentioning it to your waiter/waitress.  Dont leave the tip at the table.

GERMAN CLIMATE

The weather in Germany is seasonal with cold winters and warm summers.  The regional variations are minor between the outstretched northern plane and the mountainous southern areas. Rainfall occurs throughout the year and extended spells of snow are rare.

COST OF LIVING IN GERMANY

Grocery prices in Germany are very reasonable with the likes of Aldi and Lidl stores all over the country.

1 ltr Fresh orange juice - €0.89
Bottle of wine - €2.99
Canned tuna fillets - €1.15
15 Fish fingers - €1.59
300g German sausage - €2.09
1 ltr Vegetable oil - €1.19
500g Boil-in-the-bag rice - €0.59
250g butter €0.85
400g Beef rump steak - €6.29
Medium Chicken - €2.19
750g Breakfast cereal - €1.99

TRAVEL TIPS ITALY

SAFETY FIRST

Dial 113 for emergencies.

International dialing code +39

British Embassy

Via XX Settembre 80a

1-00187 Roma RM

Rome

Tel: (39) 0642 200 001

Check my safety tips page for general travelling advice when abroad.  Whilst in Italy please bear the following tips in mind.

• Italian stores rarely accept returns or exchanges, even if the item is flawed.
• Wheelchair access is almost nonexistent in buildings, restaurant bathrooms and public transport.
• It is considered rude to walk around town in skimpy outfits or beachwear, it may attract unwanted comments, propositions or even groping.
• Pick-pockets and bag snatchers are common in big cities.
• There is no minimum drinking age in Italy.
• Tailgating in Italy is normal. Italians like to drive fast and honk their horns very often. Be aware.
• Learn simple phrases in Italian before you go.

TIPPING

Service charges in Italy are normally included in the bill.  You are not compelled to tip, it is at your discretion.  Tipping a taxi driver is unusual, but if they help you with your luggage 1 or 2 Euros will make them smile.  Tipping hotel porters is appreciated, giving them €1 per case.

ITALIAN CLIMATE

The north is much cooler than the south due to high altitudes and distance from the equator. The mountains in the north see very cold winters bringing heavy snow and gusty winds. Summers in the north are mainly mild to warm. In contrast, the southern tip of Italy lies on the Mediterranean Sea (only a short distance from the equator), which sends the temperatures soaring, so if you want to delight in the summer sun, head to the South.

COST OF LIVING IN ITALY

The cost of living in Italy is very high due to its taxes. Italian taxes rank among the highest in the world.  Eating out can be very expensive, Rome being the most costly. Although I must say a small coffee is surprisingly reasonable at only €1. Shopping at hypermarkets also proves to be a much cheaper option. I found these prices at iPer La grande, Rozzano in Milan.  They have stores all over the country.

1kg Tomatoes - €1

250g Butter - €1

1.5 ltr Fanta €1

Red wine - €2

Deodorant - €2

Toothpaste - €1.50

75 cl Olive oil - €2

200g Cheese - €2

750g Nutella - €3.67

TRAVEL TIPS SPAIN

SAFETY FIRST

All emergencies dial : 112                

Police: 091

Fire Service: 080

Ambulance: 061                       

International dialing code: +34

British Consulate

Torre Espacio

Paseo de la Castellana, 259D

28046 Madrid

Tel (+34) 917 146 400

Look at my safety tips when travelling abroad page, for in-depth advice.

Spain is a stable and highly developed country with a modern economy. Crime rates in Spain are generally low, apart from Madrid and Barcelona where there have been high incidents of muggings and violent attacks against tourists especially around museums and monuments.   

SPANISH CLIMATE

There is a considerable difference between north and south Spain. Mediterranean Spain has high levels of sunshine, from 12 hours per day in the summer to 6 hours per day in the winter. Winters are very mild here.

Central Spain's summers are generally hot and rainfall is mainly low, however winter snow can be heavy on the Sierras.  North and Northwest Spain are the wettest and cloudiest parts of Spain especially in autumn and winter.  Sunshine levels are 8 hours per day in summer to 3 hours per day in the winter. 

TIPPING

Tips are usually included in the service charge, but if you have had excellent service 5 percent is more than reasonable.  Spanish people rarely tip if with friends.  Business lunches  €1 - 5 tip if service is good. Never tip for beverages.

COST OF LIVING IN SPAIN

The cost of living in Spain is varies greatly.  Comparisons can be made with larger cities like Madrid and Barcelona as they are expensive, especially the housing market, however, rural areas are much cheaper.  Grocery prices in Spain are very reasonable, here's an example.

1 ltr of fresh milk - €0.80

Medium chicken - €4.50

1 kg Pork chops - €5.50

1 kg Potatoes - €0.70

1 kg Tomatoes - €0.80

12 Eggs - €1.50

Butter - €1.10

1 ltr mineral water - €0.45

Good bottle of wine - €3

Deodorant - €2

200 ml Shampoo - €3

English Newspaper - €1

SAFETY TIPS WHEN TRAVELLING ABROAD

Millions of people travel abroad every year without any problems whatsoever, if we are well prepared for every eventuality our travelling experiences become wonderful memories.  Before you go, here are a few very wise tips to make note of.

• Don't reveal your travel plans on social networking sites, most of us have added friends we don't know.
• Scan all your important documents eg. Passport, Birth Certificate, Flight Details, Itinerary and Emergency credit card phone numbers and e-mail to yourself and a trusted family member.
• Find out the emergency telephone numbers of the country you are visiting.  We are compling a list on this blog.
• Do you have overseas medical insurance? Check your policy.
• Travelling in the EU? Get a free European Health Insurance Card for free or reduced emergency care.
• All first time adult passport applicants must now attend an interview to prove their identity, it can take up to 6 weeks to process.
• Remember you are subject to the laws and customs of the country you are visiting, so do some research.
• Some countries require a visa when entering as well as a passport, for example India. When in doubt, check it out.
• You may need a course of anti-malaria tablets or vaccination against certain illnesses in specific countries, these may need to be taken well in advance of leaving, so make this a high priority.
• Be aware of restrictions on items that may be taken overseas.
• If you have a pre-existing medical condition, you may need a doctor's letter as proof, including the generic names of the precribed medication.

Now that you have taken all of these tips into consideration, the next list of tips are how to stay safe whilst you are at your chosen destination. 

• Do not wear conspicuous clothing or jewellery.
• Tourists are common targets for pick-pockets, so don't flash your cash or credit cards.
• Do not leave unattended baggage in public places.
• Only carry small amounts of cash with you, most countries have ATM machines. 
• Only use ATM machines in the daytime where there is a large volume of pedestrian traffic.
• Do not accept packages from strangers.
• Try not to be out alone at night (this can happen, especially after an argument), stay in well lit areas and walk close to groups of people (use your common sense) until you get back to your accommodation.
• Avoid binge drinking, this applies to both men and women.
• Drink only bottled water and only eat in cafes and restaurants that are busy, they are busy for good reason. Always use your eyes and nose, if the food doesn't look or smell good it is not worth the risk.
• Avoid high risk activities. If you do decide to participate please ensure you have adequate insurance to cover this and experienced support.
• Drug use abroad can result in severe consequences.
• Drink spiking is on the increase, there are lots of gadgets out there that you can use to protect your drinks.  Don't accept drinks of any kind from strangers.

Travel Tips Ireland

SAFETY FIRST

Telephone 999 or 112 for Police (Gardai), Ambulance Service, Fire Service or Coast Guard.

Travelling in Ireland is relatively safe, millions of tourists visit each year without coming to any harm at all.  It is a case of using common sense and quick wit.

Opportunist thieves pose the greatest threat by using crowded places to pick pockets or snatch bags.  It is important not to carry large amounts of money in your bag, along with credit cards and important documentation.  Don't leave valuables on display in your car.  If you are confronted with a robbery, the best thing to do is simply comply with their demands as fighting back may well result in violent crime.

Travel Tips France

SAFETY FIRST

Dial 15 for ambulance, 17 for Police and 18 for Fire Service

International Dialing Code is +33

British Embassy

35 rue du Faubourg-St-Honoré

75008 Paris

Telephone 01 4266 9142

Consulate

9 ave Hoche

75008 Paris

Telephone 01 4266 3810

• The following areas are off limits for lone travellers travelling late at night around metro Chatelet, Gare du Nord, Les Halles and Stalingrad.  
• Cars are targets, do not leave valuables on display in your car.
• The legal age to drive in France is 18.  You must have a full driver's license and fully comprehensive insurance certificate with you.  Also, you must carry a high visibility jacket with you and hazard triangle at ALL times otherwise you WILL be fined.

Travel Tips UK

SAFETY FIRST

In the event of an emergency, dial 999 for Police, Ambulance, Fire Service and Coast Guard.    

Although the UK has a low crime rate, it is best to take the following advice when visiting Britain.

• Stay in well lit areas when out at night.
• Do not carry large amounts of cash around. Credit Cards are widely accepted.
• Only use cash machines when there are other people around or traffic and cover the type pad when entering your pin.  Do not attempt to draw out money if there is a group standing nearby acting suspiciously. 
• Make sure your travel insurance covers loss and theft.
• Don't exhibit expensive jewellery or items (mobile phone, laptop, camera).
• Avoid being alone at bus stops or train platforms in the evening.  
• If hiring a car, don't leave valuables on display.

Winter Driving Tips

BEFORE YOU LEAVE

If you are about to embark on a long journey by car this winter, take all the necessary precautions before you leave.  Make sure your car is serviced and tyres are checked by a qualified mechanic, as you already know, a well maintained car is a reliable one, especially when road-side breakdowns in treacherous conditions are at their highest.  Carry your mobile phone and make sure the battery is full, also bring your in-car charger along with you.  Let someone know your departure time, route and arrival time.  Have a full tank of fuel and dress according to weather conditions.

You don't want to end up having problems with your car insurance company if the worst should happen, due to faulty tyres or mechanical problems.  If you are driving in a foreign country make sure your insurance covers this. Keep this in mind.

JET-LAG TIPS

Jet-lag affects most of us, symptoms include dehydration, irritability, swollen limbs and eyes, dry nose and throat, headaches, fatigue and gastro-intestinal upset. So the week before you set off, make sure you treat yourself kindly.  Have plenty of rest, exercise, take vitamins, eat healthy foods and most of all, stay hydrated!! Do NOT travel on a long-haul flight with a hangover.  Try and exercise before you go to the airport and get plenty of fresh air, you will sleep better on the plane.  Floor exercises are beneficial if you can do leg raises (especially good for those prone to DVT).  

At the airport, (if you can), do your best to avoid escalators and moving platforms. Walk and take the stairs.  If you are a wheelchair user, wheel yourself around the airport.  It will help you sleep on the flight.

Family Travel Tips

There is nothing more frustrating than forgetting something really useful when travelling with babies and children.  Here is a list of MUST BRING NECESSITIES for an enjoyable travelling experience for you and your precious family.  After all, you have worked hard to pay for this vacation, and with a simple checklist like this could make a vast difference to your level of enjoyment, so bookmark this page and share it with your friends!

• SUN SCREEN
• PRESCRIBED MEDICATION
• BABY WIPES AND PACK OF TISSUES
• PLAYING CARDS
• ANTISEPTIC HAND GEL- use a travel size of 100 ml maximum for your hand luggage

Packing Tips

The savvy traveller hits the nail cleanly on the head when it comes to packing, usually learning from their own personal mistakes and then picking up tips like the following to create stress free travel.

Pack clothing and minimal accessories around the same colour scheme.

Distribute the weight evenly throughout the suitcase. 

Swap an outfit with a co-traveller and vice versa in case of a luggage delay.

Pack as many crease resistant clothes as possible and hang the remaining creased articles in a steam-filled bathroom after you arrive.

Rolling clothes works really well with pants, skirts and stretchy tops. (backpackers especially swear by this method).  You can also take two or more garments laid flat and fold them all at the same time, they are less likely to crease this way.

BED AND BREAKFAST TIPS

Bed and breakfasts are mainly owner-operated some are run by innkeepers.  As you are predominantly staying in someone's home, their valuables are usually heirlooms and antiques that cannnot be replaced.  This is why B&B's are so special.

Each B&B has its own set of rules on arrivals/departure times, children, pets (even horses) etc.  Also some B&B's close their doors to the public in low season so it is important to check these things out before you set off.

Lots of B&B's have sitting rooms for guests or a TV in your bedroom.  You usually have tea and coffee making facilities in your room.  It is not uncommon to be asked by your host to join them for the evening!

Always ask prior to booking what amenities are available, for example, WIFI, baby items, bicycles, beach chairs, towels etc. 

Travel Tips for Backpackers

Backpacking will change your life and thats a fact. You will not only make life long friends, you will lose that haunting, repressed, unconnected feeling that bugged you for all those years.  These tips will aid your backpacking experience, so it is the most exciting and stress free adventure of your life.

Always carry lighter items at the bottom of your backpack, heavier items on top provide better support for your spine and muscles.

Use your mobile phone as a journal instead of carrying a book (added weight).  Save as draft if you're on a tight budget; but for extra safety send them to your e mail along with photo's for your own personal travel blog; a great way to share your journey with loved ones.

LIVERPOOL CLUBS (FREE ENTRY)

The Cavern Club

The Beatles made their first lunchtime appearance at the famous Cavern Club on Tuesday 21 February 1961. From 1961 to 1963 The Beatles made 292 appearances at the club, with their last occurring on 3 August 1963, a month after the band recorded "She Loves You". 

The Cavern Club is still open as one of the UK's most famous venues. It has around 40 live bands performing every week; both tribute and original bands, although the majority perform their own material. The front room of the Cavern is the main tourist attraction, where people come to have their photograph taken on the famous Cavern stage, with the names of the bands who played there written on the back wall.

LIVERPOOL MUSIC SCENE!

Liverpool's dynamic and energetic, live, music scene, can not be equalled by any other city. Local bands and artists enthusiastically showcase their musical talents to as many people as they can, and due to public demand, there are progressively more venues implementing their needs.

If you want to drench yourself in pure, unadulterated, raw, live music, then get yourself to Liverpool as quickly as humanly possible. There is a storm brewing here. Sadly, people often associate number one bands and artists with quality, but anyone with half a brain can look at the number ones in Britain throughout the years to see this is usually a myth.  

THINGS TO DO FOR FREE IN LIVERPOOL

There are so many places of interest, trendy clubs and events in Liverpool that are free entry that you can plan your visit here in advance and get the most out of your vacation.

PLACES OF INTEREST

Ever heard the saying 'Every great city has a cathedral'? Well Liverpool has two of them, both dating from the 20th Century.  Here's a little known fact: the Anglican Cathedral was designed by a Roman Catholic and The Roman  Catholic Metropolitan Cathedral (affectionately known as 'Paddy's Wigwam') was built by a protestant. 

Liverpool Anglican Cathedral 

This is one of the great buildings of the twentieth century. It has one of the longest knaves, largest organs and heaviest and highest peals of bells in the world. The massive tower stands over the city as a symbol of faith in God. Sir Giles Gilbert Scott won an architectural competition to build the Anglican Cathedral, justifying his reputation as one of the world's great architects. Photograph by http://www.colour-splash.com/ 

The Roman Catholic Metropolitan Cathedral of Christ the King

The cathedral is the seat of the Archbishop of Liverpool. This stunning piece of architecture incorporates the largest panel of stained glass in the world.  Due to two abandoned commissions, a worldwide competition was held to design the cathedral, Frederick Gibberd came up with the winning design.

FAMOUS LIVERPOOL PEOPLE

Jean Alexander:   Played Hilda Ogden on the long-running soap opera Coronation Street.

Charles Anderson:   Victoria Cross recipient.

Michael Angelis:   Actor.

Arthur Askey:   Comedian.

Gary Ablett:   Footballer.

Beryl Bainbridge:   An acclaimed writer, nominated several times for the Booker Prize.

Tom Baker:   Actor and eccentric, famous for his portrayal of the lead role in Doctor Who in the 1970s and 80s.

Gary Bannon:   Actor, poet, songwriter. and filmmaker

Clive Barker:   Author, director and visual artist.

Tom Bell:   Actor: Prime Suspect, The Krays and Wish You Were Here.

Mitch Benn:   Comedian and songwriter, known for his work on BBC Radio 2 and 4.

Pete Best:   Former Beatle (drummer).

THE ALBERT DOCK

The prestigious Albert Dock is Liverpool's main tourist attraction for a host of reasons.  It offers a unique blend of culture, cuisine, shopping and entertainment.  Engineer and architect Jesse Hartley designed the 1.25 million square feet complex which is the largest group of Grade I listed buildings in the UK.  Prince Albert officially opened the dock on 30th July 1846.

The Albert Dock accommodated the most advanced sailing vessels of that era, but unfortunately only thrived for around 50 years as it simply couldn't handle the quantity of larger iron and steel steamships.  As a result of this, only 7% of ships docking in Liverpool were sailing ships; and by 1920 there was practically no commercial shipping activity.  The Albert Dock finally closed in 1972 after decades of disuse.

A newly formed Albert Dock Company and the Merseyside Development Corporation signed an agreement in September 1983, enabling the regeneration of the Dock to begin.  The first phase was completed just in time for the arrival of the Tall Ships Race in 1984.  HRH Prince Charles officially re-opened the Albert Dock on 24th May 1988.

Photography by: http://www.colour-splash.com/

On average, about 4 million people visit the Albert Dock each year, visiting the Tate gallery, the Beatles Story, Merseyside Maritime Museum, the International Slavery Museum, Bugworld Experience, Shiverpool Ghost Tours and the Yellow Duckmarine.

LIVERPOOL CLUB SCENE

Cream

This is the ultimate Liverpool superclub, from humble beginnings is now world famous. Cream’s reputation lives on and celebrates its 15th anniversary this year, proving that the original is still the best. Expect big names and allnighters.

Wolstenholme Square, Liverpool, 0208 969 4477

Circus

The Circus concept is simple but very effective, playing the latest house music in this Big Top themed funhouse, down at the docks.

Seel Street, Liverpool, 0151 708 5051

Nation

Best known as the original home to Cream, Nation has now gone on to become a legend in its own right. Nation’s advantage is its sheer scale, the main room, annex and courtyard ensure big crowds and the quality names to match.

Wolstenholme Square, Liverpool, 0151 709 1693

LIVERPOOL HOTEL GUIDE

The Adelphi Hotel Hotels

Tel: 0871 781 7642

Ranelagh, Liverpool, Merseyside

The famous Adelphi Hotel in Liverpool offers quality accommodation and excellent facilities in a prime location, at value for money. Recently fully refurbished.

Beech Mount Hotel Hotels

Tel: 0151 264 9189 

1 Beech Mount, Liverpool, L7 0HL

Hotel & Luxury Accommodation, Comfortable En-Suite Rooms, Ample Free Secure Parking, Good Transport Links To Centre, Breakfast Included In Price, FREE Wifi

Hard Days Night Hotel

Tel: 0151 236 1964 

41, North John Street, Liverpool, Merseyside L2 6RR

Luxurious 4* Boutique Hotel, Stunning Beatles Theme Artwork, 110 Luxury Guest Bedrooms, Lennon & McCartney Suites, State Of The Art Facilities, Blakes Contemporary Restaurant

LIVERPOOL RESTAURANT GUIDE N -Z

Nando's - Liverpool One

With quality food, friendly staff, quick service and excellent value for money, Nando's is a great place to eat. Don't expect identikit, pre-fab restaurant interiors which are usually a staple of the larger chains; each restaurant is tailored to its local surroundings and customers, offering up a unique restaurant experience to go with the equally unique taste of legendary, Portuguese, Peri-Peri chicken.

Address: 14 Paradise Street, Liverpool One, Liverpool, L1 8JF

Cuisine(s): Portuguese, Casual

Avg. Cost Per Head Lunch: £11.00, Dinner: £16.00

North Garden

Address: 28 Nelson Street, Liverpool, L1 5DN

Cuisine(s): Chinese

Avg. Cost Per Head Lunch: N/A, Dinner: £25.00

Notsushi

Not resting on its laurels, appears to be one of those all too rare places that take what they are doing seriously.

Address: Imperial Court, Exchange Street East, Liverpool, L2 3PH

Cuisine(s): Japanese

Avg. Cost Per Head Lunch: N/A, Dinner: N/A

LIVERPOOL RESTAURANT GUIDE A - M

As there so many restaurants to choose from, I only want to give you a list of the best places in Liverpool to dine.  I have high standards, and as a person that regularly dines out, I want to give you the best there is.  Average price is based on a 2 course meal, coffee, a half bottle of house wine and tip.

Alma de Cuba Restaurant and Bar

Address: St Peter's Church, Liverpool, L1 4BH
Cuisine(s): Cuban, South American
Avg. Cost Per Head Lunch: N/A, Dinner: £42.00

Ark Restaurant

If proof was ever required that Liverpool has more to offer in the culinary field these days, then Ark Restaurant provides it, as this trendy, beautifully designed restaurant really breaks the traditional mould.
Address: 12 Smithdown Place, Penny Lane, Liverpool, L15 9EH
Cuisine(s): English, Modern British, Modern European
Avg. Cost Per Head Lunch: N/A, Dinner: £23.00

ASK - Liverpool

For some time I made the mistake of thinking that no group of restaurants in the region of 200 locations could hope to maintain the quality for which I was looking. Then one day I decided to put my prejudices to the test, walked into Oxford Ask! and discovered that I could not have been more mistaken.
Address: Unit 5, Queen Arcade, Liverpool, L1 1RH
Cuisine(s): Pizza & Pasta
Avg. Cost Per Head Lunch: N/A, Dinner: £22.00

LARK LANE & SEFTON PARK

Picture this... you are walking along Lark Lane with your friends and you have never been here before.  You never knew it existed.  You walk past a healing centre, a crystal shop, many bars and restaurants until you sit down and start to relax and soak the environment in.  Then something strange happens... you look at your watch and hours have gone by!  

This is the area of the Beatnik.  It is still the main meeting place for creatives of all fields, there is a general acceptance and tolerance of all walks of life here, from the eccentric, scruffy millionaire sitting alone having a beer in Keith's only to be joined by a local hoody,  musician and off-duty probation officer catching up on old times then meandering into profound, philosophical discussion.

Staring out of the window at Keith's Wine Bar, there will be children unlike any other children in Liverpool.  They are not spoilt nor tarnished by the materialistic culture that has engulfed so many.  You will see the majority of people are relaxed in their own skins, without judgement, well read, well travelled and above all, from every corner of the globe on this idyllic lane.  It is such a shame there isn't a song written about.. hang on.. hmmm! Maybe I'll write one myself.

A BRIEF HISTORY OF LIVERPOOL

Liverpool's history can be traced back as far as 1190, known as Llifpwll a Welsh word Llif meaning 'flood' and pwll 'pool'.  There are several other interpretations including 'Liferpol' meaning muddy pool etc.  It was then a small Hamlet.

In 1207 King John founded Liverpool (Livpul) as a borough and port.  He invited settlers to come and live here, slowly building its numbers up to become a small farming and fishing community.  Troops were also based here and then dispatched to Ireland.  The population remained at about 1000 until the early 15th century; this is when the period of economic decline set in, enabling power to the county gentry.  Speke Hall was built in 1530 see picture (right).  Photography by http://colour-splash.com/  By the mid 16th century, the population had fallen to about 600.

Passport Tips

Your photographs MUST be taken in a booth, or by a recognised passport photographer.   Don't be tempted to have them taken at home as they will only get sent back to you.


If you are flying from England to Ireland with Ryanair, make sure you have an up-to-date passport.  All other airline companies accept expired passports flying from UK to Ireland EXCEPT Ryanair.  

INTRODUCTION TO LIVERPOOL

I'm a musician/teacher from Liverpool about to embark on an exciting adventure. I've spent a long time planning which places I want to visit and in what order. On my travels I'll be taking lots of photographs, getting involved socially, checking out the music scenes, finding the best restaurants, hotels and bars, places of interest and travel deals.  Travel tips will gradually build into a library over the coming years and I hope to make lots of friends along the way.