SPAIN, ALICANTE
THE INSIDER… Francisco Perez is a talented trumpeter and instrument maker. At his workshop south of Alicante he makes baroque trumpets using historical methods. www.baroque-trumpets.com
HIS TIPS…
PARAGLIDING IN SANTA POLA: Even beginners can paraglide here by booking a course. While you’re up, take in the breathtaking scenery – that is, if you can keep your eyes open! www.exelement.co.uk
PIZZA PASTA E FANTASIA: This excellent Italian/ Argentinian restaurant has great staff, an intimate setting and delicious food. If you fancy getting away from the noise of the city centre, this is just a short walk away. 17 Calle Alemania; tel: +34 966 200 307.
CALLOSA D’EN SARRIÀ: Take a day trip to this beautiful town 50km from Alicante in the valley of the Guadelest River. See ancient churches, the skeleton of St Nicholas and pick nispero fruit (aka loquat) – the only place in Europe where it can be found!
FROM THE AIRPORT: The airport is 9km south-east of Alicante city centre. Buses to central Alicante depart every 40 mins. Journey about 40 mins; fare €1. There are also regular buses to Murcia and Benidorm. Taxi fare approx €13 to Alicante, €58 to Benidorm.
SPAIN, ALMERIA
THE INSIDER… Chipo Martinez plays acoustic bass and guitar for a number of bands around Almeria. He also works in a popular music shop called Mundo Musica. www.mundomusicalmeria.com
HIS TIPS…
BODEGAS LAMARCA: Spend an evening in this winery where Flamenco fusion, jazz or Cuban music can be heard and wine bottles and hams decorate the quirky interior. 33 Calle Gregorio Marañón; tel: +34 950 086 625, www.grupolamarca.com
CLASIJAZZ: This Saturday night club for locals explores the fusion of jazz and classical music. Nearly all the members are musicians but entrance is open to all and the crowd is welcoming. 275 Pine Harbor Place; www.clasijazz.com
ASUNTXU: About an hour from the city, this bar is popular with all ages and nationalities. The tapas are excellent and its auto-pull system means you can serve your own beer. 187 Paseo del Mediterraneo, Mojacar Playa; tel: +34 950 472 214.
FROM THE AIRPORT: The airport is 11.1km east of the city centre, at the far end of the AL-12 dual carriageway. Airport buses depart every 45 minutes weekdays, every half hour weekends. Journey about 30 mins, fare €1.15.
Taxi fare approx €15. www.spanish-airport-guide.com
NETHERLANDS, AMSTERDAM
THE INSIDER… Reinier Sijpkens cruises Amsterdam’s canals on his boat, from which he holds performances, playing the trumpet, barrel organ and conch. www.musicboat.nl
HIS TIPS…
THE BEIAARD BELLS: Hear the carillon bells of the Westertower midday on Tuesdays and at the Oude Kerk at 14.30 every day. Westertower of Westerchurch, 281 Prinsengracht; Oude Kerk, 23 Oudekerksplein
WALK THE WALK: These are audio tour guides with music, anecdotes and stories by local residents. www.walkthewalk.nl
CAFÉ DE JAREN: A classy interior, reasonably priced menu, friendly service and a great view from the terrace. 20-22 Nieuwe Doelenstraat; www.cafedejaren.nl
FROM THE AIRPORT: The airport is 14km from Amsterdam city centre. A shuttle service runs between the airport and city approx every 10 mins, from 6am to 9pm. Journey approx 20 mins; fare €11 one-way, €17.50 return. Trains run from the airport to the city 24 hours a day. Journey approx 20 mins; fare €3.80. Taxi fare: approx €45.
SPAIN, BARCELONA
THE INSIDER… Anthony Leaton, a bass player and eMarketing Manager for the musicians’ networking site Musolist. www.musolist.com
HIS TIPS…
MNAC: A wonderful museum with a wide range of art collections, from Gothic up to modern. www.mnac.es
BAR BIG BANG: The live music every night is almost always free. 7 Calle Botella; www.bigbangbcn.net
ABISSINIA: Head to the only Ethiopian restaurant in Spain, for authentic food and friendly service. 55 Torrent de les Flors; tel: +34 932 130 785.
FROM THE AIRPORT: The airport is 19km south-east of Barcelona city centre. All bmibaby flights depart from Terminal A. Buses to central Barcelona leave every seven to 15 mins from 6am to 1am. Journey approx 40 mins; fare €4.05. Trains to the city centre run every 30 mins, from 6am to 11.30pm. Journey approx 30 mins; fare €2.50. Taxi fare approx €20.
NORTHERN IRELAND, BELFAST
THE INSIDER… Gavin Reid is lead singer and guitarist in Belfast band Panda Kopanda, whose album, This Hope Will Kill Us, is out now. www.pandakopanda.co.uk
HIS TIPS…
VISIT THE MENAGERIE: The legendary bar has reopened under new ownership in the shape of famed Belfast DJ David Holmes and features live music and a cool crowd. 130 University Street; tel: +44 (0)28 9023 5678.
ORMEAU PARK: The oldest, and one of the largest, parks in Belfast, it’s packed with flowers and wildlife and in summer there’s concerts, performances and sporting events. Ormeau Road; www.belfastcity.gov.uk/parksandopenspaces
THE SPANIARD: This intimate, hip bar in the artsy Cathedral Quarter of Belfast is very small, so get there early if you want a table to sample the tasty tapas. It’s great for a lively drink and a friendly crowd. 3 Skipper Street, Cathedral Quarter; tel: +44 (0)28 9023 2448, www.thespaniardbar.com
FROM THE AIRPORT: The airport is 29km north-west of Belfast city centre. The Airport Express 300 service to central Belfast departs every 10 mins, Monday to Friday; every 20 mins on Saturdays and every half hour on Sundays. Journey approx 40 mins; fare £6. Taxi fare approx £25.
ENGLAND, BIRMINGHAM
THE INSIDER… Karen Fleming, caller and singer in Birmingham’s The New Corona Band, a ceilidh and barn dance band. www.newcoronaband.co.uk
HER TIPS…
NICOLE’S: A bar and restaurant with a wholesome menu and lively atmosphere. 18 Hall Street; www.nicolesbar.co.uk
THE CUSTARD FACTORY: A converted Bird’s Custard factory now offers shops, art galleries and music. Gibb Street; www.custardfactory.co.uk
BACCHUS BAR: The décor is eccentric and the menu promises not to break the bank. Burlington Arcade, New Street; tel: +44 (0)121 632 5445.
FROM THE AIRPORT: The airport is 13km south-east of the city centre. Airport Link buses to central Birmingham leave every 20 to 30 mins. Journey approx 15 mins; fare £1.50. Take the free Air-Rail monorail (90 seconds away) for trains to the city centre. Taxi fare approx £17.
FRANCE, BORDEAUX
THE INSIDER… Gael Vergier is a drummer and works for an instrument sales company in Bordeaux. www.milongamusic.com
HIS TIPS…
PARC FLORAL: Replace the buzz of the city with the lazy buzz of a bumblebee by visiting this peaceful haven. Filled with colourful flowerbeds and some of the most beautiful flowers from Bordeaux’s 10 sister cities, it’s Bordeaux’s very own little Eden! Avenue Pernon; www.bordeaux.fr
NOIR KENNEDY: Venture in to this alternative boutique to stock up on classic threads and the latest edgy designs. Browse through independent designers, retro rock tees and kick-ass shoes. If skinny jeans are your legwear of choice, you won’t be disappointed. 62 rue du Pas St Georges; www.noirkennedy.fr
BT59: One of Bordeaux’s finest alternative music venues, BT59 welcomes both touring bands and local talent. Typically full of musicians of rock, indie and electro persuasions, but you might hear a bit of rap or metal on occasion. Not the spot for a quiet night out! Site de Terres Neuves, Rue Marc Sagnier; www.bt59.fr
FROM THE AIRPORT: The airport is 11km west of the city centre. Buses depart for central Bordeaux every 45 mins from 7.45am to 10.45pm. Journey approx 40 mins; fare €7. Taxi fare approx €30.
WALES, CARDIFF
THE INSIDER… Rachel Taylor-Beales, who plays guitar and piano and has performed all over the world. www.racheltaylor-beales.com
HER TIPS…
A SHOT IN THE DARK CAFÉ: An arty café with a chilled atmosphere hosting music events and writers’ forums. Staff never rush you so it’s a great place to relax with a good book, a cappuccino and a slice of cake. 12 City Road, Roath; www.ashotinthedark.eu
MILGI LOUNGE RESTAURANT: This beautiful restaurant combines cocktails, tapas and art. Outside, a bohemian yurt with massive comfy cushions is the setting for music and events. 213 City Road; www.milgilounge.com
CHAPTER ARTS CENTRE: An alternative cinema showing independent and world films, theatre and dance events, with a gorgeous bar and a great menu. Everything under one roof! Market Road, Canton; www.chapter.org
FROM THE AIRPORT: The airport is 19km west of Cardiff city centre. Airbus Xpress buses to central Cardiff run regularly Mon-Sat, hourly on Sun. Journey approx 40 mins; fare £3.40. Taxi fare approx £24.
IRELAND, CORK
THE INSIDER… Brendan Coffey is an acoustic guitarist who is currently studying in Cork.
HIS TIPS…
CHILL OUT IN THE PEACE PARK: Also known as Bishop Lucey Park, this pretty bit of greenery right in the middle of the city becomes a hive of multicultural music and arts in the summer. It’s a great place to have a picnic and soak up an atmosphere filled with music and laughter.
Grand Parade, Cork.
AN BROG: This pub could easily be described as Cork’s music hot spot. It has several rooms – one of which regularly stages live music – and is usually packed at the weekends with a diverse crowd, from old regulars to punky students. It has an atmosphere like no other! 74 Oliver Plunkett Street.
TRIBES COFFEE SHOP: An intimate coffee house with an amazing drinks menu and food served in large portions, this is one of the only coffee houses in Cork that opens late, so it’s a great nighttime alternative to a noisy club. 8 Tuckey Street, tel: +353 (0)21 427 4446.
FROM THE AIRPORT: The airport is 8km south-west of Cork city centre. Buses to central Cork leave regularly. Journey approx 30 mins; fare €4.10. RoadRunners, an airport-to-city shuttle, departs every 30 mins; fare €5. Taxi fare approx €18.
SCOTLAND, EDINBURGH
THE INSIDER… Katie Targett-Adams is a singer and songwriter who plays the Celtic harp. She aims to broaden traditional views of the instrument by playing all styles of music on it. www.kt-a.com
HER TIPS…
ONE O’CLOCK GUN: Climb Calton Hill at the end of Princes Street at 12.50pm to get to the top in time to hear the One O’Clock Gun being fired from Edinburgh Castle; a ball also drops from the top of Nelson’s Monument. Originally, both were time signals for sailors. Calton Hill.
SCOTTISH STORYTELLING CENTRE: Billed as “the home of Scotland’s stories”, it includes the historic John Knox House, with exhibitions, festivals and weekly events for the whole family. 43-45 High Street; www.scottishstorytellingcentre.co.uk
PRESTONFIELD HOUSE: Rest and recuperate by taking afternoon tea in the opulent setting of Prestonfield House, a hotel in an idyllic countryside surrounding even though it’s a mere five minutes from the city centre. Priestfield Road; www.prestonfield.com
FROM THE AIRPORT: The airport is 13km west of the city centre. Express buses to central Edinburgh depart every 10 mins from the early morning until after midnight. Journey approx 25 mins; fare £3. Taxi fare approx £15.
PORTUGAL, FARO
THE INSIDER… Johnny Hooper is a saxophonist who, with his wife, Sue, runs a music venue in the Algarve: Johnny Hooper’s Saxophone Bistro. www.johnnyhooper.com
HIS TIPS…
MOIRAS ENCANTADAS: At this intimate restaurant specialising in Algarvean home cooking, chef and owner Rogelio Jorge can often be seen dashing out to pick fresh herbs and vegetables from his garden. 2 rua Miguel Bombarda, Paderne; www.moirasencantadas.com
GOLFERS COMPETE: Join the weekly Wednesday golf competitions at Balaia Golf Village (35 mins from Faro).
It’s fun, friendly and open to all. Quinta da Balaia, off the road to Olho de Água from Albufeira; www.balaiagolfvillage.pt
CORK MUSEUM: Converted from an old cork factory, this museum is surrounded by a large courtyard with restaurants that have live music and water or light shows in the evening. Fábrica do Inglês, rua Gregorio Mascarenhas, Silves.
FROM THE AIRPORT: The airport is 8km from Faro city centre: buses depart regularly, journey approx 20 mins; fare €1.65. Taxi fare approx €10.
SCOTLAND, GLASGOW
THE INSIDER… Jill Rodger organises the annual Glasgow International Jazz Festival, this year on 19-28 June. www.jazzfest.co.uk
HER TIPS…
SOUTHERN FRIED: A hip club night takes place on the last Saturday of the month, with northern soul and 60’s R&B in an “old man’s” social club. 101 Titwood Road; www.myspace.com/southernfriedclub
THE 78: A friendly bar and restaurant with a vegan menu and organic beers and drinks. 10-14 Kelvinhaugh Street; tel: +44 (0)141 576 5018.
THE RIO CAFÉ: Get the kids a milkshake or stick around for poker events and cabaret nights. 27 Hyndland Street; tel: +44 (0)141 334 9909.
FROM THE AIRPORT: The airport is 13km west of Glasgow city centre. Buses to central Glasgow depart regularly from early morning until after midnight. Journey approx 25 mins; fare £4.20. Taxi fare approx £20.
CHANNEL ISLANDS, JERSEY
THE INSIDER… Nick Baxter is lead vocalist and bass player in electro rock band Marvel, an exciting Jersey-based band. www.myspace.com/marveljersey
HIS TIPS…
BEAN AROUND THE WORLD: Drink coffees from around the world while sitting right in the heart of Jersey. This place also serves up a selection of smoothies, ice-cream shakes and an inventive menu that goes well with the wacky décor. 73 Halkett Place, St Helier; tel: +44 (0)1534 619977
VISIT THE DEVIL!: The parish of St Mary on Jersey has a coastal path which leads down to a blowhole in the cliffs known as the Devil’s Hole. With an imposing statue of His Satanic Majesty nearby, this sight is not one for the faint hearted! The Coastal Path, Saint Mary.
CHAMBERS: Near the law courts and so themed, with a beamed ceiling covered in law quotations. During the day you can stop in for a hearty pub lunch and in the evening there’s often live music and a lively crowd looking for fun. 5 Mulcaster Street, St Helier; tel: +44 (0)1534 735405
FROM THE AIRPORT: The airport is 6km west of St Helier. Bus number 15 to St Helier departs every 20-30 mins, from 7am to 10pm. Journey approx 15 mins; fare £1.50. Taxi fare approx £12.
REPUBLIC OF IRELAND, KNOCK
THE INSIDER… David Burke is an Irish traditional accordion player and music student from County Mayo.
HIS TIPS…
KILKENNY’S BAR: The place to go if you want the real local’s local, this is the venue for a decent chat and a relaxed drink. Knock; tel: +353 (0) 94 938 8292.
JOIN THE PILGRIMS: The Knock shrine is a rite of passage for every visitor and a great chance to see some of Ireland’s beautiful countryside. www.knock-shrine.ie
MONSOON: In Ballyhaunis, one town over from Knock, Monsoon has regular theme nights and, with its thumping beats, is the place to dance after the pubs close. Clare Street, Ballyhaunis; www.bebo.com/monsoonballyhaunis
FROM THE AIRPORT: The airport is 6km from Charlestown in County Mayo. Buses to Charlestown depart eight times a day; fare €5.50. Taxi fare approx €25 to Knock.
PORTUGAL, LISBON
THE INSIDER… Paulo Miranda is the lead singer in up and coming Lisbon metal band PhaZer. www.gophazer.com
HIS TIPS…
MUSIC BOX LISBOA: Discover emerging Portuguese musical talent at this eclectic music venue. The Music Box likes to mix it up with different genres of music every night to keep the crowd guessing. With an attractive arched entrance, the décor here is as cool as the regulars. www.musicboxlisboa.com
HOT CLUB DE PORTUGAL: Established in 1948, this is the oldest and most esteemed jazz club in Portugal. The club thrives on a passion for jazz – it even has a jazz school attached which is dedicated to nurturing new talent. It’s a great place to witness both blossoming skills and international stars. 39 Praça da Alegria; www.hcp.pt
CREW HASSAN: This place always has a frenetic pace of activities including art exhibitions, film and video screenings, along with workshops in DJ-ing, astrology and sewing, and holds debates in literature and theatre among other subjects. 159 rua Portas de Santo Antao.
FROM THE AIRPORT: The airport is 6km from Lisbon city centre. Aerobus number 91 to central Lisbon departs every 20 mins from 7.45am to 8.15pm; fare €3.35, valid all day. Taxi fare approx €15.
MENORCA, MAHON
THE INSIDER… DJ Nico Riviera works for popular Ciutadella music venue Limoo Bar, which aims to bring new music and amazing social events to the area. www.myspace.com/limoobar
HIS TIPS…
LITHICA: Menorca’s best kept secret, Lithica is a series of abandoned quarries that are believed to date back to the Roman times. Now home to a beautiful botanical garden and occasionally a concert venue, you can wander through the wonderous sites. It’s about a 40-minute drive from Mahon. Cami Vell, Ciutadella; www.lithica.es
SES FORQUILLES: This little restaurant in the heart of Mahon has a gorgeous menu for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The staff are friendly, efficient and accommodating and the wine list is good. 20 Rovellada de Dalt; tel: +34 971 352711.
THE FORTRESS OF ISABEL II: Built in the late 19th century, this fortress became outdated before it was ever finished. Now it simply decorates the beautiful shores of Mahon. Wander through history while enjoying the view. www.fortalesalamola.com
FROM THE AIRPORT: The airport is 4.5km from the city centre. Buses depart every 30 mins,
5.55am to 10pm. Journey approx 15 mins; fare €1.60. Taxi fare approx €10.
www.menorca-airport.com/en/index.php
SPAIN, MALAGA
THE INSIDER… Clive Cutter is a guitarist and writer who runs a website with his wife, Sally, which specialises in holiday accomodation in Andalucia. www.beautifulyoo.com
HIS TIPS…
VINO MIO: Run by a Dutch lady and her Spanish husband, this restaurant successfully combines the two heritages and has flamenco and brazilian music evenings. www.restaurantevinomio.com
O’NEILL’S IRISH PUB: An Irish pub in Malaga is bound to result in an authentic international experience.
Come on a Friday evening for the live music. 12 calle Principe; tel: +34 (0)915 212 030.
CHIRINGUITO BEACH BARS: When you’re walking along Malaga’s shoreline, don’t overlook the beach bars offering a wide range of cuisine.
FROM THE AIRPORT: The airport is 8km south-west of Malaga city centre. Buses to central Malaga depart every 30 mins, 7am to midnight. Journey approx 45 mins; fare €1. Buses to Marbella vary depending on season. Journey approx 45 mins; fare €3.65. Trains to Malaga depart opposite Terminal 2, from 7am to 11.45pm; fare €1. Taxi fare approx €15 to Malaga; €50 to Marbella.
ENGLAND, MANCHESTER
THE INSIDER… Matt Whitlam is a competition piper with the Oldham Scottish Pipe Band. He regularly plays pipes at weddings, parties and Burns Night events. www.ospb.co.uk
HIS TIPS…
LIVE THE HIGH LIFE: Cloud 23 (above) is a bar on the 23rd floor of the Hilton Hotel. With full-length windows and classic cocktails, view the beautiful city in a glamorous setting. If James Bond lived in Manchester, he’d drink here. Beetham Tower, 303 Deansgate; www.cloud23bar.com
GO TO THE DOGS: Belle Vue Greyhound Stadium has a 400-seat restaurant, six bars, the thrill of the race and the buzz of the atmosphere for a great day or night out. Kirkmanshulme Lane, Gorton; www.lovethedogs.co.uk
O’SHEA’S LIVE IRISH MUSIC BAR: For a night of Irish music, drink and a lively, friendly atmosphere, head here for a perfect pint of Guinness. 80 Princess Street; www.osheasirishbar.co.uk
FROM THE AIRPORT: The airport is 16km south-west of Manchester. All bmibaby flights operate from Terminal 3. Five to six trains an hour go to the city. Journey approx 15-20 mins; fare £3.60. The No 43 bus departs every 10-30 mins from 5am to 11pm. Journey approx 50 mins; fare £2.50. Taxi fare approx £20.
SPAIN, MURCIA
THE INSIDER… Mercedes Escobar is a pianist and actor from Murcia.
HER TIPS…
COVES OF BOLNUEVO: A completely untouched area of Murcia, Bolnuevo has amazing carved sandstone and intimate corners where you can swim undisturbed. Bay Of Mazarron; www.mazarron.es
UTOPIA THEATRE BAR: A combination bar and theatre. Acts include music, readings and DJs playing rock and Britpop. 7 calle Velázquez; www.teatrobarutopia.com
BADULAKE BAR: The best place to go to dance with legendary Spanish party-goers until it’s time to watch the Spanish sunrise. 4 St Ignatius Loyola; tel: +34 622 228 284.
FROM THE AIRPORT: The airport is 48km south-east of Murcia city centre. Bus No 73 to central Murcia departs at
5.45pm, 7.15pm and 10.45pm. Journey approx 45 mins; fare €7. Taxi fare approx €42.
ENGLAND, NEWQUAY
THE INSIDER… Peter Chisholm is the singer in Newquay band The Sea, who recently released Get It Back on Lusty Records. www.myspace.com/theseasounds
HIS TIPS…
COASTAL WALK: The coastlines in Newquay are beautiful and Pentire Headland’s panoramic views are not to be missed. The Newquay Discovery Trail helps explain Newquay’s history. www.newquaysfinest.co.uk/coastal-walks-c48.html
KOOLA BAR: There are lots of good nightspots here, but this is one of the best for live bands and DJs. On four floors, with a capacity of 400, the vibe is like a local party. 12 Beach Road; www.thekoola.com
WHEN THE BOAT COMES IN!: One of the most relaxing things to do in Newquay is sit on the harbour (above) and watch the fishermen bringing in their catch.
FROM THE AIRPORT: The airport is 8km north of Newquay. Bio Travel (tel: +44 [0]1637 880006) provides a taxi and minibus service running on biodiesel. Minibus approx £4 (€4.35); taxi approx £14 (€15.28), pre-booking advised.
FRANCE, NICE
THE INSIDER… Nico Timmermans, of the French Riviera band Spyglass. www.myspace.com/spyglasshotband
HIS TIPS…
MA NOLAN’S NICE PORT: A great Irish pub with fantastic views from the terrace. www.ma-nolans.com
MATISSE MUSEUM: Some of the artist’s most beautiful works in his former home. www.musee-matisse-nice.org
SHAPKO BAR: The best jazz venue in Nice, run by Russian musician Dimitri Shapkov, who often joins his friends onstage. www.shapko.com
FROM THE AIRPORT: The airport is 6km west of Nice city centre. Buses to Nice take 15 mins; fare approx €4. Buses to Cannes (€12.40) and Monaco (€14) take 50 mins. Trains to Nice leave from the Gare Nice St Augustin (500m from Terminal 1). Journey approx 15 mins; fare €4. Taxi fare approx €25; €70 to Cannes; €75 to Monaco.
ENGLAND, NOTTINGHAM
THE INSIDER… Nicola Pennill is a saxophonist and saxophone teacher from Nottingham. www.nicolapennill.co.uk
HER TIPS…
THE LAKESIDE ARTS CENTRE: Set beside a park and a lake, this award-winning arts centre has two concert halls and an art gallery with frequently changing exhibits. www.lakesidearts.org.uk
JAZZ STEPS: Fancy hearing some jazz? Look up Jazz Steps and you’re bound to find something original and inventive from this non-profit organisation run by volunteers. Think jam sessions, touring professionals and special screenings. www.jazzsteps.co.uk
ART HOUSE CINEMA: Don’t fancy the summer blockbusters? Get down to the Broadway cinema in Hockley and treat yourself to a movie that’s a little bit different. As well as interesting films, they have theme evenings and art exhibitions. This is one of Nottingham’s most vibrant and exciting places. www.broadway.org.uk
FROM THE AIRPORT: The airport is 21km south-west of Nottingham city centre. Skylink buses to the city centre depart every 30 mins. Journey approx 45 mins; fare £5. Airline shuttles to Derby run hourly; fare £2.60. Taxi fare approx £26 to Nottingham, £24 to Derby and £33 to Leicester.
SPAIN, PALMA DE MAJORCA
THE INSIDER… Iain Duncan is an Elvis Impersonator who was voted Europe’s Best Elvis in 2005. He regularly performs in Palma Nova. www.iain-elvis.com
HIS TIPS…
SON AMAR: One of Majorca’s most popular dinner shows, which has a range of exciting acts. Be dazzled with flamenco dancing, singers, horses and laser shows, all combined with dinner and dancing. Son Amar is definitely Europe’s answer to Las Vegas! www.sonamar.com
WESTERN WATER PARK: A great family day out that’s guaranteed to get your adrenaline pumping. The park is western-themed and has plenty of rides to keep all ages entertained. Just remember to bring sunscreen. www.westernpark.com
FIND A HIDDEN TREASURE: Rummage around the antique and car-boot sales in Magaluf on Saturdays to mingle with the locals, practise your bartering skills and get the satisfaction of bagging a strange and wonderful bargain. Plaza de Magaluf, Magaluf.
FROM THE AIRPORT: The airport is located 11km south-east of Palma. Buses to the city centre depart every 15 mins, from 6.10am to 2.15am. Journey approx 15 mins; fare €1.85. Taxi fare approx €17.
FRANCE, PARIS
THE INSIDER… Medi is lead singer in up and coming Paris-based band Medi and The Medicine Show. www.myspace.com/mediandthemedicineshow
HIS TIPS…
MON ONCLE LE VIGNERON: This cosy restaurant serves a single menu du jour and is deservedly popular, so reservations are a must! 2 rue Pradier; tel: +33 (0)1 4202 6860.
MK2 QUAI DE SEINE/QUAI DE LOIRE: These two art house cinemas (above) on opposite sides of the river have lovely little cafés and cinema-themed bookshops. www.mk2.com
LE FUMOIR: One of the most trendy cafés in Paris and positioned a few steps from the Louvre, this place won’t disappoint. An excellent menu and laid-back atmosphere brings a mixed crowd of Parisian locals and trendy tourists. www.lefumoir.com
FROM THE AIRPORT: The airport is 23km north-east of Paris. Buses to Paris depart every 15 mins, from 6am to 10.30pm. Journey approx 45 mins; fare €8.40. Trains to Paris depart every 15 mins, from 5.24am to 11.58pm. Journey approx 35 mins; fare €8. Taxi fare €45.
FRANCE, PERPIGNAN
THE INSIDER… Jessica Sarlabous is an amateur soprano and store manager from Perpignan.
HER TIPS…
LES JEUDIS DE PERPIGNAN: This festival takes place in the summer months every Thursday through the streets of Perpignan (above). Every corner you turn is filled with street artists, jugglers and mimes, plus you’ll find concerts to listen to all over town. www.perpignantourisme.com
CASA SANSA: Specialising in modern and traditional Catalan cuisine, the quirky interior is set off by the beautifully decorated ceiling and hundreds of wine bottles decorating the walls. The food is delicious so it’s best to reserve a table if you’re eating at the weekend. www.casa-sansa.fr
CAFÉ VIENNE: A classy brasserie with excellent service and a wonderful selection of seafood, among other types of cuisine. 3 Place Arago; tel: +33 (0)4 6834 8000
FROM THE AIRPORT: The airport is 5km north-west of Perpignan. A shuttle bus runs to the city railway station. Journey approx 15 mins; fare €5.Taxi fare approx €15.
www.aeroport.fr/les-aeroports-de-l-uaf/perpignanrivesaltes.php
CZECH REPUBLIC, PRAGUE
THE INSIDER… Geoff Tyson is a music and television producer who plays guitar, bass, sitar, mandolin and keyboards. A man of many talents, he sings as well! www.geofftyson.com
HIS TIPS…
BAR1ONE: Bump elbows with the beautiful people of Prague in one of the city’s upscale watering holes. Expect to be impressed with gourmet food and groovy music while sipping one of the eye-catching cocktails. www.bar1one.cz
LETENSKE SADY: At the top of a hill, this place has a full, unobstructed view of the river and beautiful city. Sit in the Letna outdoor beer garden, play in the Frisbee field or walking along one of the many paths. Letenské sady.
CAFÉ NA PUL CESTY: In a single story building in a park and run by Greendoors, which tries to integrate people with mild psychiatric disorders back into ordinary life by employing them as servers in this café. Enjoy drinks on the terrace and listen to the musicans who play for free here. Centraini Park, Pankrac; tel: +420 777 913 053.
FROM THE AIRPORT: The airport is 19km north of Prague city centre. Catch the No119 bus to Dejvicka metro station or the No 100 to Zlicín, and continue underground to the city centre. Journey approx 45-60 mins; fare CZK20. Taxi fare approx CZK600.
FRANCE, TOULOUSE
THE INSIDER… Electrosexual is a musician and music producer living in Toulouse. www.myspace.com/electrosexual
HIS TIPS…
LE GRENIER D’ANAÏS: This is the premier vintage clothing shop in Toulouse, stocking everything from medieval attire to 80s couture. A treasure trove full of strange and wacky garments, there’s always a surprise in store as you never know what you might find. www.legrenierdanais.com
AUDIOTROK: Take it back to the 80s with this music shop specialising in synthesisers. Whether you’re interested in browsing the rare and vintage synths or just want to meet passionate musicians and join in on an impromptu jamming session, this is the place. www.audiotrok.com
LE CRI DE LA MOUETTE: Ever been to a party on a barge? Now’s your chance! Hailed as the last alternative place in Toulouse, this eclectic venue can host touring bands, be an avante garde club venue or just one of those places where anything can happen. www.lecridelamouette.com
FROM THE AIRPORT: The airport is located 6.7km north-west of Toulouse. Buses to the city leave every 20 mins daily, from 7.35am to 12.45am. Journey time approx 20 mins. Fare €4 single.Taxi €22 (day), €25 (night).
