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When you think of English food, what comes to mind? Fish and chips? Roast beef and Yorkshire puddings? Or a good, old-fashioned afternoon tea? Actually, afternoon tea is not as old-fashioned as you might think. It dates back to the 1800s, when Anna, the seventh Duchess of Bedford, finding that she became hungry in the afternoons (dinner being served in the late evening), requested tea, bread and butter, and cake to be served in her rooms. Gradually the idea became popular amongst fashionable ladies, and developed into the delectable afternoon teas served in many hotels and tearooms across England today. Historic UK and About.com have more information on the history of England’s beloved snack. read more

While driving is a pleasant activity for most people, during the holidays, when journeys can take more than an hour or so time can start to drag and the drive can become a bit tiresome for everybody. Here we´ll offer you some tips to amuse yourself while staying alert and safe on the road.

If you are driving alone, it is a good idea to listen to some music to keep you alert and proficient on the road. Chill out music might be just too relaxing for an activity that requires your full attention. Try to keep awake with lively music. Although, at the other end of the spectrum, songs with a very fast tempo or abusive sound, could make you feel tired or cause unsafe driving. At this website you can check out a list of the safest songs to drive to and also those that the most unsafe. A mix of your favourite rock and roll ballads would be perfect, the closer the beat of the song is to your resting heart beat the better! read more

The Mediterranean archipelago of Malta is a glorious place characterised through a rugged coastline. It is an island with an eclectic history that sprang to life in the prehistoric era. Architecture to beaches, the country is beautiful despite coming in a small package. There’s so much to do and enjoy, take a look at these five fun things to do on Malta holidays:

• Explore Valletta – “One of the most concentrated historic areas in the world” is how UNESCO describes Malta’s capital and between the splendid architecture and tasty cafes there is something for everyone. Built in the mid-1500s, the country is linked to military history and has a very proud population. St John’s Co-Cathedral is generally believed to be the real must-see destination in Valletta with amazing artistry and marble mosaics to enjoy. The harbour is evocative, Republic Street is a beautiful walk while the 300 year old Manoel Theatre is one of the oldest in Europe.
• Discover Gozo – With a population of less than 30,000, what is known as Malta’s sister island is somewhat of a hidden gem. The capital is walled, ancient citadel is a short ferry ride away and is widely known for a slower life pace leaving it being like a place where time has stood still. It is like Malta but a few decades behind with open countryside, traditional crafts and rugged coastline with plenty of attractions to enjoy.
• Meander in Mdina – A great medieval jewel characterised by picturesque winding streets, the city is perfect for a stroll as you can take in all the noble houses and enjoy lamp-lit evenings. Some of the best views in Malta come from this spot and the wall city is beautiful to enjoy both during the day and in the evenings.
• Sun, sea and sand – It isn’t all historical cities and beautiful walks, there’s also plenty of spots to relax. Idyllic beaches are part of what defines Malta and you can get anything from popular hotspots to hidden coves. The country is generally believed to be one of the best places for scuba diving so that’s worth a look while Comino’s Blue Lagoon is incredible.
• Enjoy a Village Festa – Patron saints are celebrated across Malta and each village has a celebration every year. In the culture of the Maltese people this is an important event and they’re more than happy to integrate tourists to these evening parties that include plenty of food, drinks and fireworks! A marvelous experience.

These are five of the best, fun things to do in Malta but they’re just the tip of the iceberg. Other options worth a mention are the 5400 year old paintings are the Temples Hypogeum and the Azure Window which you can peer through during a boat trip. Happy holidays! read more