Why would someone visit Gibraltar? The question answered

Last week I travelled to Malaga for a convention forum.  I will let you know all about it in my next entry.  Well, whilst in Malaga I had the pleasure of meeting some wonderful people who had direct links with the United Kingdom’s tourism industry, what kind of grasped my attention was the fact that I was asked in several occasions what there was in Gibraltar?

My initial reaction was calm and persuasive, Gibraltar has something for everyone! Blurted out in a sheer responsive manner.  I then realised that my answer to the question was short and simple.  Should it have been?…. I quickly realised that a more structural answer should have been given to someone who indeed might be interested in travelling to Gibraltar.  My reaction was to quickly gather their attention, I asked them if they could be so kind as to ask their initial question again… their response was positive and a huge sigh of relief… they stated that they were indeed intrigued by my initial answer…. They wanted to know more about Gibraltar… so there I went…. I told them about our history and our vast range of activities.

On my way back to Gibraltar, in my vehicle without the aid of my music system available.. my only thoughts were on why would visitors come to Gibraltar for their holiday destination.  The answer is quite simple when you think about all the different kinds of amenities and activities in Gibraltar. We are privileged of over 300 days of sunny days along with its beaches and its proximity to another continent as is Morocco… it really is the gateway to the Mediterranean… The shopping experience must also be highlighted, nevertheless, Gibraltar offers much more than it has been noted for before… let Blands Travel offer you all the different options whilst you visit a lustrous destination which does essentially offer something for everyone.

As for the weekly traveller, keep us posted of all your travel arrangements, as we are certain that we can offer you a chance of seeing a different side to Gibraltar!

Happy Travelling

The Weekly Traveller

Photo by Darrell King.

Travel back in time and step into Gibraltar’s Upper Rock Nature Reserve

Ever wondered what it must feel when you first gaze at the enormous limestone rock standing at the entrance to the Mediterranean?  First time visitors to Gibraltar feel different when they first set eyes on our Rock.  Locals are accustomed to the daily feature that is the Rock, but we should remember that visitors to the Rock are amazed with such an impressive feature which seems awkward with the surrounding setting. 

During my student years abroad in the United Kingdom I remember exactly that feeling as I approached Gibraltar in the 11 50 arrival from Gatwick, slight nerves and eagerness to arrive, then suddenly there it was…

It is for this same reason that this article concentrates on the wonderful features that are available on our Upper Rock Nature Reserve.  Upon your visit to Gibraltar, one cannot forget to visit the Upper Rock.  I recently travelled to the Reserve in search of a new experience, at first I did not know myself what I would discover different.    The different sites as Apes Den and Great Siege tunnels have been vastly renovated which can now accommodate and feature more historical artefacts.

The amount of historical information gathered from the tour is immense; visitors to Gibraltar are guaranteed to learn about the many fascinating stories in relation to our history.  Not only will visitors have the chance to visit the sites they will also leave with a great recollection of history.  

To many Gibraltar is known for the Apes and its VAT shopping, however, Gibraltar offers much more than it actually meets the eye. Visit Gibraltar for its diverse historical knowledge, fascinating landscape views and most importantly visit St Michaels Cave, which is a natural formed cave with its own auditorium.

The most notable features which are worth highlighting are;

St Michaels Cave:

A visit to this cave will certainly intrigue your vision and mind.  The chilling breeze as you enter the cave is a relief from the outside warmth.  Once inside be amazed, it had been several years since I had last visited the cave and I must say that it astounds me every time I visit. Its formations of stalactite’s and stalagmites impress any visitor.

Apes Den:

Since its renovation Apes den has become a functional greeting place between the apes and the daily visitor. My experience was rather impressive as the bus driver was attending to the visitors as he  battled the Barbary macaques from entering the bus, all in all a fun experience and even greater to see  a smile on everyone’s face.

Great Siege Tunnels:

I was quite impressed with the Great Siege Tunnels recent renovation.  New artefacts make these impressive man made tunnels a more impressive feature within the Upper Rock.  The tunnels are equipped with modern equipment which certainly impressed a local visitor and from what I gathered my touring group were also impressed.

In conclusion to my visit to the Upper Rock Nature reserve, I must state that it is a pleasure promoting such a destination as Gibraltar, full of history and vivid in culture, Gibraltar’s tourism product is certainly heading in the right direction towards future visitor satisfaction.

Happy Travelling

The Weekly Traveller

The Essence of Morocco... A Taste at the Rock Hotel's Khaima Marquee

Greetings Bloggers,

What is the first thing that comes to mind when you first read this title? Well, I will eagerly blog to you how exactly “The Essence of Morocco” was lived throughout a week at the Rock Hotel’s Khaima.  

From the initial moment I stepped into the Marquee I knew this was going to be an unforgettable experience.  Was I wrong? Not at all, the aroma of the exotic  spices, the soft texture of the marquees fabric and the friendly Dadas (expert Moroccan chefs) all created a first time experience in Gibraltar.

The event was organised by The Rock Hotel in association with La Maison Arabe, an hotel-riad in Marrakesh, Morocco.  I had the chance of actually enjoying the different types of staged opportunities at the Khaima,  experiencing the cookery courses was one of the highlights which was enjoyed by the many attendees.  My overall comment on this is “exquisite”, the organisation, friendliness and final outcome was just superb. I would like to extend my gratitude as well as congratulating La Maison Arabe on their superb cooking courses.

Another experience which really brought the feel of Morocco into the Khaima was organised on the final evening.  A traditional Moroccan wines and tapas event hosted by the Rock Hotel in conjunction with Les Celliers de Meknes and Domaine des Ouled Thaleb, both reputable wine companies in Morocco … this truly remarkable event is worth commenting as the night gathered a feel of what the Vineyards in Morocco are currently producing.  The finest wines which originate from the slopes of the Atlas Mountain were tasted by the attendees on the night.

The evenings offered a different dining experience.  A taste of Morocco at the Rock offered the chance for all guests to try out the poolside buffet dinners with menus chosen or influenced by the renowned chefs (dada’s), dishes which certainly got my taste buds going as the intense and rich flavours were simply wonderful. 

Final statement

The Moroccan week was an all-round success and will certainly set a precedent in Gibraltar’s gastronomy, we have become accustomed to the Spanish side of gastronomy which is vivid and delightful, however, Moroccan dining has not yet been fully established in Gibraltar. The future is optimistic for Moroccan dining because I believe that after this superb event, a general interest from the local public and visitors to Gibraltar has been generated… I simply cannot wait for next year.

Happy Travelling

The Weekly Traveller

Welcome to The Weekly Traveller

Welcome to The Weekly Traveller, this blog space has been created by Blands Travel. 

You may ask yourself what is the purpose? Well, we believe that travel writing is essential and can be a prime motive in enticing you to travel to that special place.  Our weekly posts written by our members of staff will relive their own experiences and share it with you.  Quality in service is part of our ethos, we want you  to stay informed and always be aware of what we offer, our posts will act as a form of review and you can join us all the way… whether you simply enjoy travel writing.. Or you want to join us on one of our excursions…. Stay informed on The Weekly Traveller.