Author: Shared Suitcase
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Should You Stay in an Airport Hotel the Night Before an Early Flight?
When you’re facing an early morning flight, the last thing you want is to deal with the stress of catching a cab or navigating public transport in the dark hours. That’s when staying at an airport hotel can seem like a no-brainer. We recently had a 6am flight to Prague, and decided to stay at a hotel near Manchester Airport the night before. The experience got us thinking about the true pros and cons of booking a night’s stay at…
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Review: Nyx Hotel Prague
If you’re looking for a hotel with a prime location, the Nyx Hotel Prague is hard to beat. A mere 10-minute stroll will have you at the Old Town Square with the famous Astronomical Clock, and a quick 15-minute walk will get you to the iconic Charles Bridge. Perfect for those who want to explore Prague’s landmarks without feeling like they’re in the middle of the tourist chaos. Breakfast is solid, though not exactly a showstopper. You’ll find a good…
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A Winter Escape at School Farm Holidays: A Cozy Stay in the Owl Pod & Hottub
Nestled in the heart of the Shropshire countryside, School Farm Holidays offers a delightful retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. We visited in late December – between Christmas and New Year. Pictures and video below. For our two-night stay, we opted for the charming Owl Pod, a perfect little sanctuary for two. Though other pods are available, each with its own unique design, the Owl Pod has a double bed and outdoor hot tub and was the…
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Ultimate 10-Night Italy Train Tour: Unforgettable Adventure
Italy, with its rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and delicious cuisine, has always been on our travel bucket list. Our 10-night adventure took us from Pisa to Florence, Bologna, Verona, and Venice, with each city offering a unique blend of culture, architecture, and food. While the weather didn’t always cooperate (we got rained on quite a bit in Venice!), it didn’t stop us from enjoying every moment. Here’s a brief recap of our unforgettable Italian trip, including travel tips, city highlights,…
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Belfast: Exploring the Heart of Northern Ireland’s Capital
Belfast, with its vibrant history, striking murals, and contemporary art, surprised us in all the best ways. We spent a few days immersing ourselves in this fascinating city, discovering its mix of history, culture, and nightlife. From the Titanic Museum to hidden gems like the Crown Bar, and even a few unexpected adventures (like getting swept up in an Orangemen march), Belfast definitely didn’t disappoint. Here’s a look at the highlights of our time in this lively and often overlooked…
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7 Tips to Keep Your Luggage Organised When Travelling
Keeping your luggage organised while travelling can often feel like a never-ending battle. No matter how carefully you pack at the start, by day two, it seems like everything is in a chaotic jumble. But over the years, we’ve picked up a few strategies that really help us stay organised and save time when we’re on the road(/in the air/on the decks). Here are some of our go-to tips: Use Packing Cubes These are a lifesaver. Packing cubes let you…
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The Best Websites and Apps for Booking Flights
Finding the best flight deals can be one of the most time-consuming parts of planning a trip, but with the right tools, it doesn’t have to be. Whether you’re hunting for a budget-friendly option or a last-minute deal, there are plenty of websites and apps out there that make booking flights easy and, most importantly, affordable. In this post, we’ll share some of the best websites and apps we use to book flights—and why they’re worth checking out. Skyscanner: Best…
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How to Reduce Jet Lag: Tips from Long-Haul Flights
If you’ve ever traveled on a long-haul flight, you know that jet lag can be one of the most challenging parts of the journey. The feeling of disorientation, fatigue, and just being out of sync with local time can make the first few days of your trip feel like a blur. We’ve had our fair share of long flights—Manchester to Mauritius, Manchester to Montego Bay, London to Tanzania and Manchester to Malaysia —and over the years, we’ve picked up a…
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A Comprehensive Review of Lagoon Attitude Hotel, Mauritius
Located on the edge of the Anse la Raie lagoon on Mauritius’ north coast, Lagoon Attitude is an eco-conscious resort offering a tranquil escape with a good amount of luxury and a great staff team. It’s about an hour from the airport. From its sustainability efforts to its idyllic beachfront location, this hotel, for us, did a great job of bridging the gap between luxury and environmental responsibility. We stayed in a room that opened directly onto the soft sands,…
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Exploring Mauritius: Nature, Culture, and Adventure
Mauritius is a place that lingers in your memory long after you’ve left. The island’s charm lies in its incredible diversity—from lush landscapes and turquoise lagoons to its vibrant history and rich culture. Staying at Lagoon Attitude Hotel in Anse la Raie, we found the perfect base to explore this Indian Ocean gem. The hotel’s eco-friendly ethos and serene lagoon views offered a peaceful retreat after our adventures. Here’s a glimpse into our unforgettable journey. A Glimpse into Mauritius’ History…
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Four Days in Iceland: A Winter Adventure from Reykjavik to the Golden Circle
Iceland is one of those destinations that feels like stepping into a world apart from anywhere else. From the dramatic landscapes and steaming hot springs to the ethereal glow of the Northern Lights, it’s a place that leaves a lasting impression. We spent four days exploring the land of fire and ice, and though we’re usually independent travelers who like to do our own thing, we opted for a few organized tours with TUI to make the most of our…
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Review: The Lime Tree, Bollington
We recently visited The Lime Tree in Bollington, a small village on the Cheshire side of the Peak District, having been for a walk around White Nancy, a local hill! They offered a £35 three-course menu which provided excellent value for the standard of food on offer. The restaurant has a warm, welcoming atmosphere, with the conservatory at the back of the dining area offering a lovely, relaxed setting. To start, Elliot had the cream of celeriac soup, truffle mushrooms,…
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Zadar: A Perfect Blend of History, Wine and Culture
Zadar, located on Croatia’s stunning Adriatic coast, is a city that punches well above its weight. It’s where ancient ruins, Roman architecture, and contemporary art converge, and the lively local scene blends seamlessly with its historical charm. Our three-night stay in this captivating city (though effectively just two full days, thanks to our late-night arrival) left us with a lasting impression and a strong desire to return. Arrival in Zadar: A Late-Night Introduction We flew from Manchester and arrived in…
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Córdoba, Andalusia: Train Trip From Seville Full of History, Culture, and Beautiful Sights
Córdoba is one of those cities where history is everywhere you look. We took a day trip from Seville, arriving by train around 10 AM, giving us a solid eight hours to explore. Even with an unexpected two-hour delay at the station on the way back, we managed to see a lot—without feeling rushed. The Mezquita: An Architectural Wonder The highlight of our visit was, without a doubt, the Mezquita (Great Mosque of Córdoba). It’s one of the most fascinating…
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Wizard’s Wander – The Edge, Alderley Edge, Cheshire
Alderley Edge in Cheshire is one of those places that’s as rich in history as it is in fiction and legend. We recently walked the trails here, and whether you’re a fan of local folklore, Alan Garner’s novel set in the area, or just looking for a good outdoor spot, it’s definitely worth a visit. There’s a National Trust car park that is affordable to park at and which uses a payment app – so you don’t need to remember…
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Review: Guggenheim Bilbao
Hardly groundbreaking stuff, but The Guggenheim Bilbao is a highlight of any visit to the city, offering an exceptional combination of striking architecture, world-class contemporary art, and thought-provoking installations. Designed by Frank Gehry, the museum is as much a work of art as the exhibits it houses. The curving, titanium exterior gleams and shifts with the light, making the building feel almost alive as you approach. It’s a true visual masterpiece, blending seamlessly with the riverside location and making it…
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Restaurant Review: Maison Bagarre, Nantes
Located at 6 Rue Jean Jacques Rousseau in the heart of Nantes, Maison Bagarre offers an enjoyable mix of relaxed sophistication and modern design. We stayed just round the corner at Maisons du Monde Hôtel & Suites. We were seated upstairs in a mezzanine area, which had a bright and airy atmosphere, with sleek, contemporary decor that perfectly complemented the lively energy of the restaurant. It’s a place where you can enjoy high-quality dining without the formality that often comes…
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Review: Les Machines de l’Île in Nantes
If you find yourself in Nantes, Les Machines de l’Île is definitely worth a visit. We spent about two and a half hours exploring the site, and it’s a unique experience that blends art, engineering, and a bit of whimsy in a way you won’t find elsewhere. The highlight for many (and for us!) is the Grand Elephant—a giant, mechanical elephant that you can actually ride. Yes, there’s an extra charge for the ride, but it’s a fun experience. As…
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Review: NaturaLeza Encendida at Real Alcázar de Sevilla
If you’re visiting Seville and looking for a truly magical experience, NATURALEZA ENCENDIDA at the Real Alcázar is an absolute must. As the sun sets and the evening sky turns to twilight, history comes alive in a spectacular fusion of light, sound, and nature, transforming this UNESCO World Heritage site into a vibrant canvas of colors and emotions. The light show, designed to evoke the essence of the Alcázar’s rich heritage and lush gardens, takes you on a journey through…
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Bar Postiguillo Tapas, Seville: A Hidden Gem for Tapas Lovers
If you’re in Seville and looking for a laid-back, authentic tapas experience, Bar Postiguillo Tapas is a must-visit. Nestled in the Arenal district, this unassuming gem has everything you want in a local eatery—rustic charm, mouthwatering dishes, and a great selection of drinks, all served up with a side of Andalusian warmth. We stumbled upon Postiguillo during our trip to Seville and ended up coming back twice—it’s that good. The menu features an impressive array of tapas, each one a…
