Fairy Travels

9 Exciting Things to do at Night Near Times Square

Things to do near Times Square at night

New York is known as the city that never sleeps. And as soon as you visit, you’ll see just how true this is. Night or day, the city is absolutely buzzing with things to see and do, and many places stay open right through the night.

Nowhere is this more true than in and around Times Square. This brightly lit square is packed full of attractions, and the fascinating street life continues here right through the night. If you’re looking for things to do in New York after darkness falls, Times Square is the ideal place to start your journey.

Drop off your bags at a Times Square luggage storage, and you’ll be able to explore without carrying more than you need to. Try some of these nocturnal attractions in and around Times Square, and you’ll be seeing some of the best nighttime activities New York has to offer.

Enjoy the Midnight Moment

Things to do near Times Square at night

With its eye-popping bright neon signs, Times Square itself is perhaps best enjoyed at night. Stick around until 12 AM to catch the Midnight Moment, when many of the huge screens and the square synchronized to display artwork by contemporary artists designed for this massive public space. It’s an unforgettable thing to experience in New York, and although it only lasts a moment, you’ll probably treasure the memory for a lot longer than that.

See a Broadway show

This is one of the quintessential things to do while in New York, and Times Square is the ideal place for it. Many theatres in the area offer matinee and evening shows, and some even carry on into the early hours of the morning.

Book tickets to a show, and you’ll be enjoying one of New York’s most iconic experiences while making memories that are sure to last forever.

There’s so much variety in the New York theatre scene that the chances are good you’ll find a show that appeals to you, no matter where your tastes lie. And if you’re willing to venture off-Broadway and explore more experimental work, you can get tickets for surprisingly affordable prices in this expensive city.

Tour the Theater District

Even if you don’t go to see a show, the theatre district around Broadway is well worth exploring all by itself. You can take a self-guided tour of some of these magnificent buildings and find out about the history behind them, or why not join one of the many guided tours to get a more in-depth look at this incredible part of NYC?

Go Bowling at Bowlmor

Roof top view New York

This Times Square bowling alley is open until 2 AM on weekends, so you can enjoy some late-night fun with your friends or family. The alleys are brightly lit and attractively decorated, and there’s a huge range of different lanes to choose from. Plus, if the game isn’t going your way, you can always grab a snack or drink to fuel up between frames.

Admire the Skyline From a Rooftop Bar

There are few better places to enjoy a fancy cocktail with a view the New York, provided you have the budget for it. Explore in and around Times Square, and you’ll find tons of great bars with outdoor terraces that offer sweeping views of the city. Or you can try one of the rooftop bars in nearby neighborhoods like Midtown and Hell’s Kitchen, which also have great skyline views to take in as you sip your drinks.

Take a Helicopter Tour

Rooftop bars in New York don’t come cheap, but the views they provide make them worth considering as night-time activities. The same is even more true for a helicopter tour of New York. Expect to pay hundreds of dollars, but you can also expect a truly unforgettable experience as you explore the city from the unique vantage of the sky. It’s an experience you won’t find anywhere else and one that will give you totally new perspective on the city.

Explore a Speakeasy

A more affordable option is to explore New York City’s underground bar scene by seeking out some of its hidden speakeasies. These secret bars can be hard to find, but they’re worth it if you want to enjoy some drinks without paying too much. Some of these bars even have 1920s-era decorations, so you can get yourself in the mood for a true prohibition feel.

Take a Horse-drawn Carriage Ride

Horse and Carriage Times Square

For something romantic, or even something fun to do with kids, consider spending part of your evening touring the sights in a horse-drawn carriage. Many tours include Time Square and other top attractions like Rockefeller Center and Central Park. If you’re in town at Christmas, the ride is even more magical, but don’t forget to bundle up as the temperatures can be quite chilly, especially at night.

Visit Hershey’s Chocolate World

For a more family-friendly experience, head to Hershey’s Chocolate World for some sweet treats and fun activities. This Times Square shop offers everything from factory tours and interactive experiences, to candy-making classes. Plus, you can even customize your own chocolate bar! The store stays open until midnight on Friday and Saturday nights, so there’s plenty of time to get your fill of all things chocolatey.

Conclusion

Any list like this can only hope, at best, to scratch the surface of all there is to do in New York. Whether by night or by day, the city offers almost infinite options for entertainment, shopping, dining, and just about everything else you want on a city break. So drop off your bags at a luggage storage and get ready to explore what may well be the world’s greatest night-time city on your next trip.

Note: This is a collaborative post

Tips for Jordan with kids 

If travelling to Jordan with kids is on your agenda we have compiled tips and advice based on our recent trip to Jordan. I have lots of queries via our Instagram on our trip and it has taken me way longer to write this article but life has been busy with work and my kids play and compete in a lot of sport so time just run away on me!

• The Jordan Pass 

Jordan with kids Pic Credit: The Mamma Fairy Blog

I had read a lot and I mean a lot while planning and researching this trip and the Jordan Pass was a no brainer it covers entry into over 40 of the key sites including Jerash, Wadi Rum Petra and also by purchasing the pass the 40Jd visa fee is waived. Kids under 12 go free anyway to the tourist sites in Jordan so you don’t have to buy a pass for kids however you do need to pay the 40jd visa fee. It’s comes via email which you can store on your phone, however we printed them out as I heard reviews of people have difficulty when scanning on the phone and also saves you having to hand over your phone every time.  In theory you are meant to also show your passport or a copy of it but we were never asked in any site but did have it copied and printed again just to save having to hand it over every time we wanted to enter one of the attractions.

• Arriving into Jordan 

Jordan with kids – Amman Citadel Pic Credit: The Mamma Fairy Blog

I find when travelling with young kids you need to be flexible and I feel anyway take it at a slower pace. Jordan has 2 airports one in Amman, its capital and the other in Aqaba in the south of the country.  Its certainly worth considering your key attractions and factoring the airport around that for example, Aqaba is closer to Petra and Wadi Rum where as Amman is closer to the Dead Sea, Jerash, Baptism Site, Madaba. The distance from Amman to Petra is over 4 hours each way.

Another thing to note is do be prepared to queue at visa desks, it took us quite a while to get through so I was glad I had snacks for the kids.  Also be sure to fill in the tourist form before you arrive to get your QR code. Its all online and quick to fill in.

Visas took so long that when we landed to the belt they had moved our luggage over to a holding/ storage area which nobody had told us. We have an old suitcase with a distinctive colour which one of the kids spotted quickly. In addition we did have a tile in it so we knew at the very least it had made it to Amman.

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Tips for skiing with kids 

Getting your kids ready for their first lesson on the slopes is exciting but you might be thinking about getting a thousand things or doing a thousand things that you probably don’t need to or you might be forgetting something important. We love winter holiday with our kid having been to Tromso and Lapland in recent years.   Here’s our concise, handy guide on tips for skiing with kids with thanks to Maison Sport.

Clothing

Keep in mind your kids will probably fall quite a few times before getting the hang of it, so it’s important to make sure their attire is appropriate so as to avoid snow getting inside their clothes. Here are our tips for clothing:

• One-piece ski suit is better than a two-piece outfit. We’ve all experienced it, even as adults, it can happen that when you fall your jacket can ride up and some snow gets inside. Especially for young kids, 6 and under it’s better for them to wear a one-piece suit rather than a two-piece suit.
• Mittens are better than gloves. Especially for younger boys and girls, mittens tend to be better not only because they keep their hands warmer, but also it’s easier to grip the ski poles. As a plus, the wrist straps will make sure they won’t lose their mittens even if they take them off.
  

  Tips for skiing with kids

• Ski masks under the helmet. A ski mask protects head, ears, neck and face if needed. Again it’s practical because it doesn’t leave many gaps for snow or cold to get through.
• Layer Up.  Layers will make sure your kids stay warm during their lessons. Typically you’ll want at least three layers –  thermal layer, a fleece layer, and a waterproof insulating layer.
• Don’t buy too many things. Keep in mind that next year your kids will have probably outgrown all their clothes so don’t go crazy buying too many things, especially if you only ski once or twice a year. Better yet, if you have other friends with kids, you can always borrow a few things!
• Ski Socks. It’s worth investing in a couple of sets of ski socks, much better than using normal or sport socks. They’ll only need to wear one set, don’t send them out in two layers of socks.

Equipment

How cute is it seeing all the little kids with their little skis on or on their mini boards? Making sure they feel comfortable in their equipment is key for them to have a good time during their lesson.

• Get them used to it. As soon as you have your equipment, make sure they are comfortable in it, especially the boots. Have them walk around, bend their knees, make a couple of movements they would do during their lesson in order to make sure everything feels good to them and nothing is too tight or hurts them.
• Rent. As with clothes, what fits right this year, will probably be too small next year. Especially when it comes to equipment which is definitely more expensive than clothes, it’s always better to rent it.
• Goggles. It is important your kids have goggles to protect their eyes from the glare and keep them warmer. A tip with goggles, try and keep the foam and inside of the goggles dry as the goggle can steam up if they get wet.

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Tips for visiting New York with kids 

Pic Credit: Pixabay

New York is one of those cities I will never tire of visiting, I am lucky to have visited over 10 times and even more lucky to have spent time living and working there. However despite many requests from the kids who are 10 and 7 now we have never taken them. 2023 will be the year we change that. We are considering combining it with a return trip to Canada.

With that in mind, I have spent the last few weeks doing some research on tips for visiting New York with kids so I thought I would share the learnings as it might help other families thinking of doing the same trip.

1- Attraction Passes 

I don’t think this even needs telling but there is a myriad of things to do in New York from thrill seeking type attractions, to walking tours, to dizzying heights type tours to leisurely strolls around art galleries.  New York really is the city that never sleeps.  We always left wanting more there is simply so much to do and with that the cost does creep up and especially if travelling as a family. My top tip here is to consider getting the New York City Tourist Pass it covers over 90 attractions and you can get a pass from 1 to up to 10 days. Another good option is the New York Explorer Pass which is a smart card that you can purchase in order to gain discounted cash-free entry into 3, 5, 7, or 10 of New York’s top attractions. In many ways a “make your own NYC tourist pass” option, the New York Explorer pass is a flexible way to see some of New York’s greatest sights over a long or short period of time at a discounted price. You actually don’t need to determine the exact sights that you plan to visit ahead of time, you need only decide upon how many you want to see.

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Pic Credit: Unsplash

Ruin pubs are one of the most iconic features of the Hungarian capital of Budapest. Ruin pubs are bars that have been established in the derelict buildings left over from Budapest’s Soviet era and before, and these legendary watering holes make for truly atmospheric places to enjoy the city’s unique culture. Over the years these unique spots have become firm favourites with Stag and Hen dos, if this is something of interest for your trip, here is a great  Stag do Guide for Budapest to help you with your planning.

You can’t ignore these lively bars if you’re looking for something to do at night in Budapest. Drop off your unneeded bags at a Budapest luggage storage and get ready to enjoy a fun night out. Ruin pubs are a major tourist attraction in Budapest, and so it’s possible to take a guided pub crawl which will bring you to some of the liveliest and best bars in the city. But if you prefer to explore for yourself, the bars on this list are a great place to start.

Szimpla Kert

Szimpla Kert is one of the most famous and well-loved ruin pubs in Budapest, and it’s easy to see why. This atmospheric bar is located in an old factory building, and it’s full of quirky details and interesting decorations. The outdoor courtyard is a great place to enjoy a drink in the summer months, and there’s always a lively vibe inside too.

Pic Credit: Unsplash

One of the best-known ruin pubs in the city, you’re always guaranteed a memorable night here. It is the perfect introduction to the ruin pubs of Budapest and a great way to meet other travelers and locals alike while you enjoy this celebrated aspect of the city.

Korzo

Korzo is another well-known ruin pub located in an old factory building in the city. This bar has a more refined atmosphere than some of the other options on this list, and it’s a great place to enjoy a cocktail or two. The menu features a range of Hungarian and international dishes, making it a great option if you want to enjoy some evening food as well as drinks.

The bartenders here are known for their excellent cocktails, so be sure to try one (or two!) while you’re visiting. Even if you’re not a big drinker, Korzo is worth visiting for its interesting interior, delicious food, and central location on the Danube embankment.

Doboz

This ruin pub is the perfect spot if you can’t decide whether you want a pub or club feel on your night out. Doboz offers the best of both worlds in one location and also has a lovely interior courtyard. The place as a whole is large, and the courtyard is lit up beautifully with colored lights to enhance the ambiance. And if that wasn’t enough, Doboz also allows you to peruse the works of local artists in their gallery.

You’ll find a good selection of drinks here alongside food that leans American, like hot dogs, burgers, and pizza. 

Anker’t

Pic Credit: Unsplash

Anker’t is another popular ruin pub located in an old factory building in the city. This bar has a more industrial feel than some of the others on this list, and it’s known for its excellent range of beers.

There’s also a great selection of cocktails and spirits available, and the bar often has live music playing. Anker’t is a great option if you’re looking for a more alternative night out, and it’s always lively and atmospheric.

Instant & Fogas Ház

These two ruin pubs are located side by side in an old building that used to be a dentist’s office and an apartment block. Instant is the more chilled out of the two bars, with a cozy interior and a range of beers and spirits available.

Fogas Ház is a more upbeat option, with live music and DJs playing most nights. It bills itself as the largest ruin bar in Budapest and is part of the Party Complex that boasts seven different clubs.

Both bars have outdoor areas which are perfect for enjoying a drink in the summer months, and they’re always full of both locals and tourists.

Csendes Vintage Bar & Café

Csendes Vintage Bar & Café is a more upscale option for those looking for a ruin pub experience. This bar is located in an old apartment building, and it has a stylish interior with vintage furniture and decorations.

The menu features a range of Hungarian wines and spirits, as well as a selection of cocktails and beers. Head to Csendes for a touch of elegance while still embracing the dilapidated feel of a ruin pub.

Mazel Tov

Mazel Tov is one of the most unique ruin pubs in Budapest, and it’s definitely worth a visit. This bar is located in an old synagogue, and it has a wide range of beers and cocktails available.

Pic Credit: Unsplash

The real draw here is definitely the food, which features a delicious fusion of Israeli and Hungarian cuisine. The dishes are all reasonably priced, and they’re perfect for sharing.

Don’t miss this one on your next trip to Prague, because how many people can say they’ve had a drink in a synagogue?

Szatyor Bar

If you insist on live music to accompany your drinks, Mazel Tov is the place for you. While they don’t offer music every night of the week, it’s safe to safe that you’re guaranteed a performance most nights.

As with a lot of the ruin pubs in Budapest, this one is also in an old factory, and the decor is eclectic and definitely fun, although verging on chaotic. This place is mostly known for its Hungarian food, like goulash, but don’t fret; you can also get your drink fix here, too.

Conclusion

Ruin pubs are the perfect places to go for a lively night out in Budapest. Not only are they a famous part of the city, but they are also a great place to appreciate Hungary’s complex history and culture. Each has its own vibe, but who can resist a drink or meal in a historical building lit up with twinkle lights? Stop by one or more of these entertaining bars on your next visit to Budapest, and you’ll be taking part in a true Hungarian tradition as well as having a fabulous time.

Note: This is a collaborative post 

5 Amazing Things to Do On Your Upcoming Holidays in South Africa

So, you’re planning to spend your next vacation in South Africa?? 

Well, the country is indeed a spectacular destination to chill out with your loved ones and make loads of memories. 

From amazing safaris, world-class wineries, and striking coastline to rugged mountains and rich historical background, this place has everything to be a perfect pick for spending your upcoming holidays. 

Here, we have discussed five amazing things you must do when in South Africa. 

#1 Go On Safari

Pic Credit: Pixabay

The moment you land in South Africa, your first plan should be to go on a safari as most tourists do. It’s the most fantastic experience you will ever have since it’s home to major home drives and has tons of national parks to roam around.

The most popular destination for safari has to be Kruger National Park, where one gets to see a lot of diversity and wildlife. So, while booking hotels, make sure you find Places to Stay Near Kruger National Park so that you can explore the natural beauty of South Africa. 

#2 Explore the Wineries 

South Africa is home to award-winning wineries which dates back to the seventeenth century. The country’s climate is ideal for grape production, and it has different varieties of white, red, and sparkling wines. If you’re an oenophile, you must explore South Africa’s wineries! 

The Cape Winelands region, at a distance from Cape Town, has a collection of over 150 wineries and some of the best restaurants to take a tour of. 

#3 Go Whale Watching

The most fun and exciting thing to experience in South Africa has to be whale watching. If you love aquatic life, you’ll go back home with a bright smile on your face. 

You should visit between June and November to spot the breathtaking view of Southern right whales, orcas, and Bryde’s whales playing along in the sea. You can book a tourist cruise which is especially for whale watching enthusiasts. 

#4 Take a View of the Table Mountain

Pic Credit: Pixabay

Capetown has to be the most happening city in South Africa. The city has it all – from Cape Peninsula and beaches to stunning Table Mountain views. It’s also popular for its delicious food scene and striking nightlife. 

What you absolutely cannot miss in Cape Town is to take a trip to the top of Table Mountain and Cape Peninsula. You will get to walk by beautiful beaches. If you want to see more African penguins, Boulder’s Beach should be a must-visit option on your list. 

#5 Take a Road Trip

No vacation is fulfilled without a road trip, be it any other country you’re visiting. And guess what! South Africa makes the most happening spot for road trips. Start by taking a tour of the Garden Route, which takes you to stunning views of coastal cliffs, forests, and mountain ranges. 

If you are an adventurous soul, you can stop by the highest bridge in Africa, the Bloukrans Bridge, and try bungee jumping there. 

Wrapping It Up 

South Africa is a large and diverse country that needs an ample amount of time to be explored. You’ll run short of your vacation days, but the country won’t stop surprising you with its incredible beauty! So, make sure you do your research beforehand and visit all the popular destinations. 

Note: This is a collaborative post

Yosemite National Park is perhaps America’s most famous, besides Yellowstone, and offers some of the most stunning landscapes in the country. It’s long been a venue for keen explorers, but it is also a good place to take the kids. In fact, the park actively caters to their needs. 

Pic Credit: Unsplash

While Yosemite might look epic from the pictures you see of it posted online, it is actually well-served by roads, car parks and visitor centres. It’s hard to get lost on all the waymarked trails and help is always available, if you need it.

So what should you be doing with children in Yosemite National Park? Let’s take a look. 

Explore The Giant Sequoias

While sequoias might not be the tallest trees in the world, they’re certainly the largest. Their trunks can grow to enormous sizes, making children look teeny by comparison. Some reach as high as 200 feet tall, making them spectacular to behold, particularly when you see them next to regular trees. 

Yosemite offers several sequoia groves, including Merced and Toulumne. Here, kids can find cones and perhaps paint and decorate them later. Just be warned: they’re surprisingly small for such an enormous tree. 

Sing Campfire Songs

While more tourists flock to Yosemite every year, it is still very much an outdoor adventure spot. And, for that reason, it has a rich camping heritage. Many people travelling to the region hire campervans beforehand and then take all the supplies they need with them for an epic trip. 

Singing campfire songs and roasting marshmallows is a popular pastime here. You can also join in the tradition of shouting “Elmer” after a boy got lost in the park sixty years ago. It remains strong to this day. 

Hike The Alpine Meadows

Hiking the Alpine Meadows in Yosemite can be a lot of fun. The scenery is beautiful, featuring stunning rivers, carved glacier domes, and beautiful wildlife. If you go a little further into the park, you’ll reach Tuolumne Meadows. The journey is worth it, thanks to the camp store, visitor centre, and camping ground. It offers all the supplies you need. 

Go To Half Dome Village For Icecream

What child doesn’t like ice cream? Fortunately, Yosemite National Park has it in spades. Perhaps the best place to get it is in Half Dome Village, known as Curry Village in the past. Vendors here are extremely generous with the portions they offer and scoop sizes. Once you have your ice creams, you can go and munch them near the cliff at Glacier Point. 

Take Them Ice Skating

During the winter, Yosemite can get so cold that even the waterfalls freeze over. However, it’s also a time the park comes alive, offering ice skating for all the family. 

For parents, though, the best part is often what comes afterward: a warm mug of cocoa. 

Hike The Waterfalls

Lastly, be sure to take a trip to the majestic waterfalls in the park. Bridalveil and Yosemite Falls are both worth the visit. They each have easy, kid-friendly hikes leading up to them. 

Note: This is a collaborative post

Sun Gardens Dubrovnik Review 

Pic Credit: The Mamma Fairy Blog

I always knew I wanted to spend my significant birthday somewhere special, however I had long wish list…seaview, warm weather, nice food and good wines, luxurious but with activities for the kids and a bonus would be a new country for us on our 100 country quest.  A very tall order or so I thought!!

While researching I came across Sun Gardens Dubrovnik, it ticked all boxed for us so that was our mind made up.

We flew out with Aer Lingus on a 7am flight which actually wasn’t as bad as I feared after hearing all the media coverage about long queues. We flew home with Ryanair  on the late flight and I  have to say Dubrovnik airport was dream – so efficient.

We were at the hotel by 1 o’clock which was lovely and early giving us plenty time to get our bearings and familiarise ourselves with the resort. We used the hotels transfer service both ways (Korkyra) which was excellent, the vehicle was spotless, luxurious and air conditioned which was very welcomed as we landed to a fabulous 30 degrees. The driver both times was courteous and professional – definitely recommend.

The hotel were fantastic and facilitated us with an early check in which we really did appreciate. We were taken to our two bed residence in a golf buggy which the kids found super exciting.

The Resort

How stunning is this view – Sun Gardens Dubrovnik Pic Credit: The Mamma Fairy Blog

Sun Gardens Dubrovnik is located in Orašac, which 11 km from Dubrovnik city centre and approximately 30 minutes drive from the airport. The resort commands a prime location on the sea front with an unobstructed view over the sea and the ideal vantage point to capture that world famous Dubrovnik sunset. The resort has its own marina and direct access to the sea.

Getting to the UNESCO walled town of Dubrovnik is easy via boat from the hotel, the hotels bus transfer or by Uber.

• Restaurants

You will be completely spoiled for choice in terms of eating and drinking at Sun Gardens Dubrovnik and for us 3 nights was simply not enough to experience all this wonderful resort has to offer, the perfect excuse to return!

La Pasta 

The first night we arrived we ate at La Pasta and it was a thumbs up for us all. The boys had pizza and both adults had the seafood  risotto. The menu is varied and this is probably the most reasonably priced restaurant on site.

We loved the relaxed atmosphere, the view and the staff were great with kids.

The Market

The setting of this restaurant is magical, we did book in advance and got the best table at the edge looking over the Adriatic. It really was the stuff of dreams sitting out on the terrace here. The kids menu was good and both adults had seafood dishes.

The Market specialises in seafood cuisine.

The staff here were also excellent with the kids and special mention to the lovely waiter who went out of his way to get an Italian coffee for us at a different establishment on site. Super service and a super setting!  The view here really is the highlight, it was bright when we arrived so we stayed to watch the sunset, a memory I will treasure forever.

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Madeira with kids

Airport with a view

Is Madeira with kids on your wish list? Madeira came on my radar following an email from Ryanair which was advertising the commencement of a new direct route from Dublin.  With offer prices at €25 each way it was very hard to pass up on that so, on a whim booked the flights and set off researching Madeira.

Madeira is an autonomous region made up of an archipelago of islands north-west of Africa. With its warm climate and dramatic landscapes it looked like the perfect holiday destination for my outdoor loving gang.

Where we stayed 

When researching accommodation we had a couple of things on our wish list in no particular order 1) close to the town, 2) good facilities on site, 3) good food on site 4) family friendly.  After hours of pouring over reviews and hotel websites we decided on Enotel Lido Madeira. This is a 5 star all inclusive newly renovated hotel on the outskirts of the town of Funchal. It commands incredible views over the sea. It is located just 30 mins from the airport. We booked a transfer in advance which was handy and very efficient.

Enotel Lido Maderia

The recent renovations to the hotel have transformed this hotel into a super elegant luxurious space. We were allocated a family room consisting of 2 double beds and a balcony with a seriously wow view over the pool and the ocean in the background.   We arrived after 9pm and knowing the food in the main restaurant was finishing soon they checked us in quickly and guided us to the restaurant so the kids could get a bite to eat. We were part of the all inclusive package for the duration of our stay.

The Food

The hotel has a number of restaurants and bars on different floors and we never once found any of them crowded.  They are comfy and spacious and ideal for families.   The all inclusive food was really good, and this is truly all inclusive, all meals, all drinks included.  My own favourite was the Italian themed full service sit down 4 course meal. It was so good and some of the freshest seafood I have ever tasted.  Do go early as its full sit down it gets booked up quickly.

• Breakfast and the evening buffet were served at the Atlântico Restaurant which was really spacious with inside and outside seating. We found the service here always really good always inclusive and making sure the kids were happy
• Lunch and snacks were served all day near the pool on the 1st floor at Vela Di Canale. The kids gave the lunch time pizzas here a big thumbs up.

There are 4 bars on site, some with evening entertainment and a sports bar with a pool table which my pair really enjoyed in the evenings after the day spent in the pool. We didn’t get to sample the evening entertainment as the kids were so tired after their days spent in the pool. However when we were there, there was dancing show and live music each evening.

The facilities 

The outdoor pool at Enotel Lido

We spent 5 days here which quite honestly was not enough, there is so much to do not only in the hotel but the surrounding areas. The biggest hit for my kids were the pools, conveniently both located on the 1st floor.  The indoor pool is heated and the outdoor one isn’t. There was no issues getting at lounger at the side of the pool. Between the two pools is a little play space for kids and close by is the Sports Bar and the snacks bar. Also on this floor was the gym, the Spa centre and also kids clubs which weren’t open when we were there.  There were fitness classes on each day and my kids joined the pool yoga one of the days!

You really don’t have to leave this hotel, it has everything from the five star facilities to the high quality food offerings. The location of the hotel is convenient if you do fancy a wander to the town of Funchal. The walk to the town is downhill so uphill on the way back so do keep that in mind. However taxis are plentiful and really cheap.

The room

We were allocated a family room consisting of 2 double beds, kids were delighted no fold out bed!! Our room had a balcony over looking the pool area and the sea. It was so relaxing to wake up to that view and relax in the evening with some local wines when watching the sun set.  The room also had plenty storage and a great sized bathroom. Where there are lots of rooms in this hotel, there was never a wait during our time there for lifts and from the rooms to the communal areas this place was spotless and I mean really spotless and so well kept.

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