BY ELEANOR MURPHY
SPAIN, ALICANTE
THE INSIDER… Jur Claudius, of Fotografia Sonrisa, a small photography business focusing on location portraits and weddings. www.fotografiasonrisa.com
HIS TIPS…
EL CISNE DE ORO: Explore the winding streets and historic buildings of the El Barrio district, the oldest part of Alicante. Soak up the atmosphere by stopping in one of the many cervecerías (bars). El Cisne de Oro is famed for offering the best tapas (above) in Alicante. Pull up a stool here after walking up an appetite. 23 calle del Camarada César Elguezábal; tel: +34 969 141 427.
EL CAMPELLO: Escape the bustle of Alicante and take a tram to the small fishing town of El Campello, with its sandy beach, quaint shops and little bars. www.alicante-spain.com/alicate-streetcar-underground.html
PLAZA DE SANTA MARÍA: This beautiful square is home to two of the oldest buildings in Alicante. Visit the gothic church of Santa María to view its spectacular golden altar before heading to the modern art gallery Museu Colecci Art del Segle XX, housing works from Picasso and Dali. Admission free. Tel: +33 96 514 0959.
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. www.aena.es
SPAIN, ALMERIA
THE INSIDER… Steve Brockett combines paragliding with photography to produce compelling pictures. www.stevebrockett.com
HIS TIPS…
SALIENTE MONASTERY: El Santuario de la Virgen del Saliente is perched 1,000m high on an outcrop of the Sierra Estancias mountain range. Built 300 years ago, the former monks’ living quarters now serve as accommodation and the bar, complete with terrace, allows you to drink in the views of the surrounding sierras all the way down to the coast. www.hospederiavirgendelsaliente.es
CALAR ALTO (ABOVE): Set high in the Sierra de Los Filabres, at 2,168m, this Spanish/German observatory was built to take advantage of the clearest skies in Europe. Time your visit for when the moon is up and you’ll feel as if you can reach out and touch it. www.caha.es
CHIRINGUITOS, MOJACAR: The chiringuitos, or beach bars, at Mojacar are fast becoming unique in Spain, as local laws prohibit building more. There’s something for every mood, taste or budget here, from cool beach shacks to million-euro nightclubs. Chill out with good food, beer and music only seconds from the sea.
FROM THE AIRPORT: The airport is 11.1km east of the city, 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… Ellen Sassen, of Sassen en Verstraaten Fotografie, creating unique, fun, colourful and edgy wedding photography (above). www.dutchwedding.nl
HER TIPS…
HOTEL WINDKETEL: Possibly the smallest, but definitely the most intimate luxury hotel in Amsterdam, this free-standing octagonal building was once an outhouse of the Municipal Water Company. Built in 1900, and now fully refurbished, it serves as a three-storey single suite for two. www.windketel.nl
AU BONHEUR DES DAMES: Visit this shop in the chic Beethovenstraat district and fall in love with the beautiful and unique jewellery. Nearly a century old, this intimate store is a favourite among Dutch celebrities and stylists alike and is perfect for gifts and treats. www.aubonheurdesdames.nl
ABRAHAM KEF: One of the oldest in Amsterdam, this specialist cheese shop offers a variety of high-quality cheeses produced in farms across Europe. Don’t just grab your cheese and go – pull up a chair to one of the barrel tables and enjoy a glass of wine with your slice of Gouda. www.abrahamkef.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. www.schiphol.nl
SPAIN, BARCELONA
THE INSIDER… James Wardell is an established international photographer/photojournalist/ adventurer, currently based in Barcelona. www.jameswardell.com
HIS TIPS…
PARQUE DEL LABERINTO DE HORTA (ABOVE): Overlooking the city, this park was originally created during the 18th century on the Desvalls family estate. Now open to the public, the park and gardens are perfect for spending a lazy afternoon in. Be sure to get lost in the labyrinth. www.bcn.cat/parcsijardins
PLAZA SAN FELIPE NERI: This peaceful oasis in the bustling Gothic quarter is one of the few places in the city where the only sounds are the trickling fountain and the wind in the trees.
CASTILLO DE MONTJUÏC: Built around 1694, Montjuïc Castle has tremendous historical importance and its panoramic views from the rooftop make a striking visual impact. www.castillomontjuic.com
FROM THE AIRPORT: The airport is 19km south-east of the 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. www.aena.es
NORTHERN IRELAND, BELFAST
THE INSIDER… Jessica Weber is a freelance fashion photographer. www.jessicaweberphotography.com
HER TIPS…
CARGOES CAFÉ: In among the Lisburn Road boutiques, the atmosphere of this eaterie is friendly and the food is excellent value for money. www.cargoescafe.com
LAGAN MEADOWS (ABOVE): This stretch of green is an oasis in the heart of the city. Take a stroll along the river to unwind. www.belfastcity.gov.uk/parksandopenspaces
LAVERYS: The city’s oldest family-owned pub has four bars, outside seating and an alternative music venue. www.laverysbelfast.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. www.belfastairport.com
ENGLAND, BIRMINGHAM
THE INSIDER… Simon Winnall shoots conceptual, lifestyle and portrait photography. www.simonwinnall.com
HIS TIPS…
THE VAULTS (ABOVE): A subterranean restaurant serving both classic and contemporary dishes. Head to the bar to sample the cocktails and the option to attend cocktail school! www.vaultsbirmingham.com
THE CUSTARD FACTORY: Over a century old, the infamous Custard Factory is now the hub of an artistic and creative community. Just 600 paces from the bustling Bullring, with shops, creative workshops, a weekly flea market, green spaces, fountains and sculpture. www.custardfactory.co.uk
THE IKON GALLERY: This contemporary art gallery is an internationally acclaimed venue showing innovative work. www.ikon-gallery.co.uk
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. www.bhx.co.uk
FRANCE, BORDEAUX
THE INSIDER… Pierre Wetzel is a photo reporter. www.pierrewetzel.com
HIS TIPS…
CHEZ ALRIQ: The restored waterfront of the Garonne (above) is perfect for a lazy, riverside stroll before stopping at La Guinguette Chez Alriq for a tipple or two. Admire the view of Bordeaux by night to the sound of live jazz from this bohemian bar. Tel: +33 (0)5 5686 5849.
LA DUNE DU PYLA: Climb the highest dune in Europe to enjoy the spectacular view. Just 60km from Bordeaux, between a pine forest and the bay of Arcachon, you’ll be in the perfect location to try the famous Arcachon oysters, at their tastiest in the winter. www.dune-pyla.com
LA CALLE OCHO: This Cuban bar is full of character, with battered leather sofas, mosaic walls and red lights. Head here at the weekends for a lively night out. 24 rue des Piliers de Tutelle; tel: +33 (0)5 5648 0868.
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. www.bordeaux.aeroport.fr
WALES, CARDIFF
THE INSIDER… Rosie Dovey, a freelance photographer. www.rdoveyphotography.co.uk
HER TIPS…
WASHINGTON ART GALLERY: Offers an eclectic range of colourful contemporary artworks, many for sale. Set in a former art-deco cinema, and teamed with a fully licensed Italian café, it’s not to be missed. www.washingtongallery.co.uk
LLANERCH VINEYARD (ABOVE): Less than 15 minutes from Cardiff by car is Llanerch Vineyard, the largest and oldest premier vineyard in Wales. Tour the vineyards before a tutored wine tasting. www.llanerch-vineyard.co.uk
BAR CWTCH: Set in a fantastic location, Joylon’s Boutique Hotel overlooks Cardiff Bay and, in the basement, is trendy Bar Cwtch. Head here for platters of local cheeses, olives, pickles, hot breads and the cosy warmth of a wood-burning stove. www.jolyons.co.uk/bar
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. www.cwlfly.com
IRELAND, CORK
THE INSIDER… Rory O’Toole, one of the eight-strong Cork Analogue Photographers. www.corkap.wordpress.com
HIS TIPS…
BALLYCOTTON (ABOVE): In east Cork lies Ballycotton, a small fishing village that prides itself on its tranquility and beautiful views. A short walk up from the pier will bring visitors to the beautiful cliff walk. www.ballycotton.com
THE MUTTON LANE INN: Open since 1787, these days this cosy tavern with exposed beam ceiling is the perfect place to go for a pint of the black stuff. 3 Mutton Lane, off Patrick Street, Cork.
THE GLUCKSMAN GALLERY: Situated in the beautiful grounds of University College Cork, the Lewis Glucksman is just a short walk from the city centre. Visit this innovative display of art and marvel at the interesting building in which it’s housed. www.glucksman.org
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. www.corkairport.com
SCOTLAND, EDINBURGH
THE INSIDER… Jo Hanley specialises in editorial, PR and advertising photography. www.johanley.com
THER TIPS…
THE ESPY HOTEL: The Portobello Esplanade is home to the Espy Hotel. Head here to indulge in excellent food washed down with a glass of wine or local ale. Ask for a seat at the captain’s table for the best views. www.the-espy.com
THE PENTLAND HILLS (ABOVE): A great place to do some hiking, catering for all levels of intent. If you don’t have time to visit the Highlands, the Pentlands will give you a grand Scottish view just 10 minutes out of town.
THE MANNA HOUSE: This bakery, patisserie and coffee shop produces a selection of breads, pastries and desserts. Settle down with a hot chocolate and watch the production process in the open-plan bakery. www.manna-house-edinburgh.co.uk
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. www.edinburghairport.com
PORTUGAL, FARO
THE INSIDER… Filipe Varela turned a lifelong photography passion into a dream career. www.filipebvarela.com
HIS TIPS…
FARO OLD TOWN: The narrow, cobbled streets of Faro’s Cidade Velha (Old Town) are lined with historic buildings and inviting cafés and shops. Best appreciated leisurely to give you the chance to spot a stork (above) nesting in the medieval walls.
RIA FORMOSA NATURAL PARK: An ecosystem of barrier islands and a shelter for migratory and rare birds, the lagoon can be explored by boat, allowing you to discover the channels between the marshes while watching mussel and oyster farmers. Located between Faro and Olhão off the N125. www.visitportugal.com
SÉ CATHEDRAL: One look at the gold carving, art works and azulejos (decorated tiles) and you’ll understand why the Earl of Essex ransacked it in 1596. Climb the tower for a bird’s-eye view of the city. Largo da Sé.
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. www.ana.pt
SWITZERLAND, GENEVA
THE INSIDER… Jesse Morgan is a documentary, photojournalism and portrait videographer/ photographer from Toronto now based in Geneva. www.jessejmorgan.com
HIS TIPS…
BAINS DE PAQUIS: The Buvettes des Bains by this urban beach serves the best cheese fondue in Geneva. www.bains-des-paquis.ch
LE SALÈVE: Geneva’s mountain is a 20-minute bus ride from downtown, which will take you to a cable car. From there it’s a 5-minute ride to the top for great views (above). www.telepheriquedusaleve.com
LA CLEMENCE: Retire to this cosy bar after a long day and relax with a panaché (French shandy) or two. www.laclemence.ch
FROM THE AIRPORT: The airport is 4km north of the city. The No 10 bus departs every 10 minutes; the No 28 every 20, direct to the city centre. Journey 15 mins. Trains to the city centre depart every 5-10 mins. Journey approx 10 mins. You can pick up a ticket from the machine in the baggage collection area which allows you free travel on public transport for the next 80 minutes. Taxi fare approx CHF30-35. www.gva.ch
SCOTLAND, GLASGOW
THE INSIDER… Richard Campbell has been photographing Glasgow for nearly 20 years. www.richardcampbell.co.uk
HIS TIPS…
THE HUNTERIAN MUSEUM & ART GALLERY: Scotland’s oldest public museum houses meteorites, mummies and roman artefacts, as well as collections of Charles Rennie Macintosh (fabrics from his designs are above) and James Whistler’s work. www.hunterian.gla.ac.uk
THE BOTANIC GARDENS: The beautiful Kibble Palace glasshouse at the Botanic Gardens has just undergone a massive restoration – definitely worth a look. www.glasgow. gov.uk/en/Residents/Parks_Outdoors/Parks_gardens/ botanicgardens.htm
BYRES ROAD: Everything from fish and chips to award-winning restaurants and, in the lanes leading off Byres Road, shops with designer clothes, jewellery and second-hand curios.
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. www.glasgowairport.com
FRANCE, GRENOBLE
THE INSIDER… Russell Standring specialises in photographing cyclists (and took this shot, above). www.grenoblecycling.com
HIS TIPS…
BRÛLEURS DE LOUPS: Head to the Pôle Sud ice rink to watch the Brûleurs de Loups ice-hockey team for a great evening out. www.bruleursdeloups.com
CYCLE THE ALPE D’HUEZ: The 14km climb from Bourg d’Oisans to Alpe d’Huez has staged many a Tour de France victory. Rent a bike and have a go. www.bourgdoisans.com
PLACE ST ANDRÉ: Enjoy a coffee in the sun in Place St André, the prettiest of the town squares and soak up the atmosphere.
FROM THE AIRPORT: The airport is 45km north-west of the city. Taxi from approx €70; journey approx 30 mins. The Altitude bus line matches scheduled flights, €12.50 one way/€22 return; journey approx 45 mins. Buses to Isère ski resorts connect from Grenoble bus station on the Transisère network. www.transisere.com; www.grenoble-airport.com
CHANNEL ISLANDS, JERSEY
THE INSIDER… Dan Marsh, Jersey-born photographer, and web-developer living in the east of the island. www.dm-photographics.com
HIS TIPS…
LE HOCQ (ABOVE): Visit the beach at Le Hocq and check out the Martello tower, then stop off at Dave’s kiosk, located at the top of the beach slipway, for a tasty burger.
GOREY PIER: Head to Gorey Pier for spectacular coastal views. With a huge selection of bars, cafés and restaurants, it’s the perfect place to lose an afternoon… Gorey, St Martin.
MOTHER EARTH: When shopping in St Helier, take a look in Mother Earth on Bath Street. Here you’ll find all kinds of interesting hand-crafted items from around the world, making it the perfect place to buy gifts. 5 Bath Street, St Helier; tel: +44 (0)1534 731816.
FROM THE AIRPORT: The airport is 6km west of St Helier. Bus No 15 to St Helier departs every 20-30 mins, from 7am to 10pm. Journey approx 15 mins; fare £1.50. Taxi fare approx £12. www.jerseyairport.com
REPUBLIC OF IRELAND, KNOCK
THE INSIDER… Ciarán Duignan, a fine-art photographer (one of his pictures is above) in Mayo. www.thegreengallery.ie
HIS TIPS…
KILTIMAGH PET FARM: Take a trip to Kiltimagh Pet Farm to meet the locals and make a furry friend or two. A great family day out set in beautiful countryside. Residents include llamas, peacocks and wallabys, and new additions include monkeys and pygmy goats. www.kiltimaghpetfarm.com
FOXFORD WOOLLEN MILLS: Head here for a historical tour of the mill and a taste of Foxford life in the 1890s. Visit on a Saturday morning for a wander around the local farmers’ market. www.foxford.mayo-ireland.ie/WoolMill.htm
LAHARDANE: A visit to the beautiful village of Lahardane is a must. Nearby Lough Conn is famed for its stocks of salmon and brown trout and you can pop into Murphy’s Bar for a quiet pint by an open fire, where you’ll get a warm welcome.
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. www.knockairport.com
PORTUGAL, LISBON
THE INSIDER… Alexandra Carvalho specialises in animal photography. www.bazardosronrons.blogspot.com
THER TIPS…
LIVRARTE (ABOVE): Once a meeting place for intellectuals and freedom fighters during the Carnation Revolution, Livrarte is now an antique bookshop. Spend an afternoon getting lost among the shelves with resident moggie Salva. 13A Avenida Uruguai.
FÁBRICA BRAÇO DE PRATA: Previously a weapons factory and now a factory of culture. The programme hosts a variety of events including concerts, art exhibitions, poetry readings and film screenings. A range of trendy bars and restaurants, makes this modern space an exciting place to be. www.bracodeprata.com
NOOBAI CAFÉ: Serving a Mediterranean menu with a South American twist, a lazy lunch here is the only way to spend an afternoon. www.noobaicafe.com
FROM THE AIRPORT: The airport is 6km from Lisbon city centre. Aerobus No 91 to central Lisbon departs every 20 mins from 7.45am to 8.15pm; fare €3.35, valid all day. Taxi fare approx €15. www.ana.pt
MENORCA, MAHON
THE INSIDER… Professional photographer Philip Dunn runs PhotoActive Photography Holidays in Menorca. www.photoactive.co.uk
HIS TIPS…
BLOODY ISLAND: So called for its former use as a naval hospital built in 1711 and now being restored by volunteers. Catch the free boat, departing from Moll de L’Hospital, Carrer Fontanillas, 8.30am Sundays. www.menorcaminorca.co.uk/hospitalisland.html
TROTTING HORSE RACES: This weekly spectator event retains the charm of a sport run by enthusiasts for fun and is just a 5-minute taxi ride from Mahon centre. www.hipodromdemao.com
ESPARTERIA (ABOVE): A genuine old-fashioned emporium, selling everything from guns, saddles and basketwork to birdcages and rat-traps. A joy to browse or to buy quality presents at sensible prices. 3 Carrer S’Arraval; tel: +34 971 363 615.
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… Andreas Holm, a creative wedding and portrait photographer. www.andreasholm.com
HIS TIPS…
MALAGA BIKE TOURS (ABOVE): The best way to explore Malaga is to travel around on bike. Wheeling down the windy backstreets of this historical city will lead you to discover a host of hidden plazas, not to mention the numerous friendly locals who you’ll bump into along the way. www.malagabiketours.eu
EL HAMMAM: These Arabian baths are a treat for mind, body and soul and the ideal way to unwind. www.elhammam.com
CAÑADU: This widely acclaimed vegetarian restaurant is set in simple surroundings serving excellent food. 21 Plaza de la Merced; tel: +34 95 222 9056.
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. www.aena.es
ENGLAND, MANCHESTER
THE INSIDER… Steve Baker is a freelance photographer in the music and creative fields. www.nativephotography.co.uk
HIS TIPS…
MRS BOON’S FABULOUS TEA PARTY (ABOVE): Enjoy cake and tea in the Ruby Lounge while some of the country’s best musicians play. www.therubylounge.com
SAM’S CHOPHOUSE: The friendly atmosphere and great food make this an oasis of Manchester cheer. www.samschophouse.co.uk
AFFLECK’S: Five floors of independent shops selling everything from top hats to tattoos, vinyl to jewellery. www.afflecks.com
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 (€4). The No 43 bus departs every 10-30 mins from 5am to 11pm. Journey approx 50 mins; fare £2.50 (€2.80). Taxi fare approx £20 (€22.65). www.manchesterairport.co.uk
SPAIN, MURCIA
THE INSIDER… Simon and Spencer Yorke, the father and son creative duo behind Spencer Yorke Photography and www.recordplayer.com
THEIR TIPS…
JUMILLA (ABOVE): Fast becoming famous for its fine wines, many of the Jumilla region’s vineyards offer tours and tastings, so there’s plenty of opportunity to slurp your way ‘round town. www.rutadelvinojumilla.com
FORTUNA: Known primarily for its hot springs, which were once greatly appreciated by the Romans. Hide in the waterfalls, dip into one of the relaxing mineral pools or have a hydro treatment. www.spain.info
CASA FÉLIX: An enormous seafood restaurant with a menu to match, Casa Felix is famous throughout the area, known as “the restaurant of the seven seas”. Offering more marine delicacies than you knew existed, head to this vibrant spot for a taste of the seafood paella. www.marisqueriacasafelix.com
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… Surf photographer Geoff Tydeman has been shooting surfers (see above) for over 30 years. www.gtimages.ifp3.com
HIS TIPS…
WATERGATE BAY: One of the superb local beaches and home to the Extreme Academy, which offers a wide range of water sports, equipment and lessons. www.watergatebay.co.uk
THE NATIONAL MARITIME MUSEUM: A 40-minute drive from Newquay will get you to this dockside museum with a West Country bent. Traditional Sunday lunch at the Waterside Café gets you free entry if you book in advance. www.nmmc.co.uk
THE GANNEL RIVER ESTUARY: A partly saline marshland habitat good for bird watching, walking, mountain biking and horse riding. Said to be haunted, you may hear the cry of the legendary Gannel Crake! www.newquayguide.co.uk/gannel.html
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 (€4.50); taxi approx £14 (€15.87), pre-booking advised. www.newquay-airport.co.uk
FRANCE, NICE
THE INSIDER… Blaise Fiedler specialises in wedding and family portrait photography. www.photographe-mariages.net
HIS TIPS…
COURS SALEYA FRUIT AND FLOWER MARKET (ABOVE): Head to Vieux Nice (Old Town) for a colourful mix of fruit, veg and freshly cut flowers. The market operates mornings Tuesday through Sunday.
LE CHÂTEAU: Trek the hill that separates Vieux Nice from the harbour to see the ruins of le Château at sunset. There’s an ascenseur, or lift, on Quai des Etats-Unis, if you can’t face the climb.
PARC PHOENIX: Take the kids to this park with tropical greenhouse, lake and aquarium that are home to species including iguanas, tarantulas and baby sharks! www.france-for-visitors.com/cote-azur/nice
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. www.nice.aeroport.fr
ENGLAND, NOTTINGHAM
THE INSIDER… Lee Garland is a an internationally successful magazine photographer with a studio in Nottingham. www.schoolroomstudio.co.uk
HIS TIPS…
THE WALK: Revisit the greatest of English traditions, afternoon tea. Scrumptious cakes, champagne and all manner of specialist teas are served in modern grandeur. www.thewalkcafe.co.uk
LE CHIEN ET MOI (ABOVE): A delightfully eccentric store, so called because the owner brings her basset hound to work, it’s perfect for when you’re after something original for your home or a unique gift. www.lechienetmoi.com
HIGHFIELDS PARK & BOATING LAKE: This beautiful park is a delightful place to while away an afternoon. www.nottinghamcity.gov.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. www.eastmidlandsairport.com
SPAIN, PALMA DE MAJORCA
THE INSIDER… Enrique F Ferrá is a part-time landscape photographer. www.efferra.com
HIS TIPS…
CAFÉ CAN’ JOAN S’AIGO: This little coffee house is a secret worth sharing. Try the homemade ice cream, traditional ensaÏmadas (pastry, above) or a pot of Champagne sorbet. 10 Can Sanç; tel: +34 (971) 710759.
SA DRAGONERA: Take a boat from the south-western shores of San Telm for a day on the uninhabited island of Sa Dragonera. This nature park is home to it’s own sub-species of the Balearic lizard. Tel: +34 639 617545.
NA BURGUESA: Head up the (very steep!) hill of Genova toward the Na Burguesa statue for spectacular views of Palma. A table in the window of Na Burguesa will team a delicious gourmet meal with breathtaking views. Tel: +34 (971) 400901.
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. www.aena.es
FRANCE, PARIS
THE INSIDER… Adam Roberts, architecture photographer (see above) of www.invisibleparis.net
HIS TIPS…
MARMITE BAZAR: Chef and owner, Caroline Choain, has a rare appreciation of flavours and textures. Visit Sunday lunchtimes for the best and most generous brunch in the city. 14 Rue Bochard de Saron; tel: +33 (0)1 4878 5147.
THE OBSERVATION TERRACE AT THE INSTITUT DU MONDE ARABE: Glass lifts whizz you up to the 9th floor. Walk past the Lebanese restaurant to the open terrace and enjoy the panoramic views. 1 rue des Fossés Stain-Berhard, Place Mohammed V.
BARON SAMEDI: Few bars in Paris have as much character as this one. A place that lives above all for music, it’s quieter during happy hours, with DJs spinning northern soul and funk tracks later on. www.aubaronsamedi.fr
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. www.adp.fr
FRANCE, PERPIGNAN
THE INSIDER… ocean and landscape photographer Jonathan Chritchley (see his work above). www.oceancapture.com
HIS TIPS…
COLLIOURE: A jewel of a village on the Mediterranean coast just 30 minutes from Perpignan. With its ancient fort, spectacular coves and special light, you can see why it attracted and inspired the likes of Picasso, Matisse and Dufy.
L’ASCOT PIANO BAR: A relaxed bar situated in the heart of the city, L’Ascot features several superb acts every week. A definite must for any jazz aficionado. 12 Impasse des Cardeurs.
LA GALINETTE: Hidden among Chinese takeaways and office buildings lies La Galinette. This unassuming restaurant serves some of the finest cuisine in Perpignan. Advanced booking is highly recommended for this Michelin-starred brasserie. 23 rue Jean Peyre; tel: +33 (0)4 6835 0090.
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/perpignan-rivesaltes.php
CZECH REPUBLIC, PRAGUE
THE INSIDER… Steve Clark of Prague Photographer. www.praguephotographer.com
HIS TIPS…
PETRIN HILL: Hop on a cable car or tram and head to Petrin Hill for a bird’s-eye view. Aim to be there at dusk or dawn, when the city is at its most enchanting. www.prague.net/petrin-hill
BOHEMIAN RETRO (ABOVE): Located in the up and coming Zizkov area, just 10 minutes by tram from the city centre, this vintage/ retro shop is full of former Czechoslovakian items ranging from the 1930s to 1980s, from crystal perfume bottles to an original copy of the Communist manifesto speech. www.bohemianretro.com
BORIVOJOVA STREET: Boasts more pubs per metre than any other street in the country. Head to Bukowski’s (86 Borivojova) for a drink with the trendies or Nad Viktorkou (79 Borivojova) for old-school grit.
FROM THE AIRPORT: The airport is 19km north of Prague city centre. Get the No 119 bus to Dejvicka metro station or the No 100 to Zlicín, and continue underground. Journey approx 45-60 mins; fare CZK20 (€0.78). Taxi fare approx CZK600 (€23.40). www.csl.cz
FRANCE, TOULOUSE
THE INSIDER… portrait photographer Kurt Witcher. www.kurtwitcher.com
HIS TIPS…
RIVERSIDE (ABOVE): Walk the newly completed path along the bank of the river and watch from the safety of the dam as the water pours over the falls.
MUSÉE PAUL DUPUY: Housed in the beautiful old Hôtel de Besson, this museum focuses on the lives of the everyday people of Toulouse, with a collection of items including textiles, furniture and art. 13 rue de la Pleau; tel: +33 (0)5 6114 6550.
LE CHAI SAINT-SAUVEUR: Head here for French-based cooking with influences from both Mediterranean and Japanese cuisine, which creates a whole new culinary experience. www.chai-saint-sauveur.com
FROM THE AIRPORT: The airport is 6.7km north-west of Toulouse. Buses to the city leave every 20 mins, from 7.35am to 12.45am. Journey approx 20 mins. Fare €4 single.Taxi €22 (day), €25 (night). www.toulouse.aeroport.fr/US pl
