Alongside luxury destinations, #TeamCoco love a throwback trip to places we’ve visited as youngsters. From eating Fish and Chips on the Blackpool seafront to bike rides through Centreparcs, there’s no reason you need to have kids in tow to enjoy these laid back hotspots. Our writer Jenna gives us the lowdown on her 5 favourite nostalgic trips….
Disneyworld, Florida
Probably the ultimate in nostalgic trips, Disneyworld is actually so much better as an adult. Not only can you really appreciate the production value that goes into an amazing place like this, but have you ever wandered through Downtown Disney after a few Margaritas? I’ve heard it’s absolutely brilliant.
You’re tall enough for all the rides, you can have a few drinks whilst watching the famous parades and the gorgeous hotels can be 100% optimised. There’s something really romantic about visiting Disneyworld with your partner and the nightclubs in Orlando are just a cab ride away. If you’ve been to Disneyworld before as a kid, there’s something seriously comforting and homely about going back as an adult. Time to release your inner-child!
Where to stay: Disney’s Yacht Club Resort, Epcot
Based in the super-modern Epcot district, the Yacht Club Resort is a New England-style lakeside hotel. Not only can you rent a variety of boats from the Bayside Marina – you’d be forgiven for mistaking you’re in the Hamptons.
Must see: Typhoon Lagoon Surf Pool, Disney Springs Resort
If you visit in the Summer, you’ve got to visit one of Disney’s famous waterparks. The Typhoon Lagoon is North America’s largest wave pool and is an absolute laugh after a few beers in the sun.
Blackpool
Blackpool is a forgotten gem when it comes to staycations. Based on the Lancashire coast, it’s the UK’s version to Las Vegas, without the cash injection. With award winning shows every night, a buzzing nightlife and some of the best Fish & Chips in the country, it’s the perfect place for kitsch weekend away.
If you grew up in the UK, you will have almost definitely visited Blackpool. From their famous Illuminations (basically Christmas lights in Summer) to their Pleasure Beach that has been going strong since 1896, it’s the epitome of British seaside.
Where to stay: The Big Blue, Blackpool Pleasure Beach
Exactly what it says on the tin, this hotel is literally pastel blue. This modern, 4-star hotel is perfectly located for a Blackpool trip as you can see the famous ‘Big One’ rollercoaster right from your window. It’s a world away from the dodgy backstreet B&B’s that you’ll find in the town, but still has the right amount of tack!
Must see: Funny Girls
The first time I ever went to see this infamous show was my 21st Birthday where I got incredibly merry on very cheap wine. A night at Funny Girls is both impressive and absolutely hilarious. Think Rupaul’s Drag Race meets Cirque De Soleil.
The interior is similar to that of Las Vegas, the food is good old British and show is unforgettable. It’s always super busy so be sure to book in advance!
Brighton
If you’re in the South, Brighton is a slightly more upmarket alternative to Blackpool. Londoners have been travelling to Brighton for beach getaways for almost 200 years now. The iconic pebbled beach and Brighton Pier’s famously twee amusement arcade are some of the main sights, but you’ll also find countless pubs and bars in their buzzing nightlife scene.
Ride the carousel and get an ice-cream by day, but hit the famous Gay quarter by night for a different side of the town.
Where to stay: Hilton Brighton Metropole
Literally across the road from the beach, the Hilton Brighton Metropole has views right across the English Channel. Sleep with the window open for a true Seaside wakeup call of the tide coming in and Seagulls – total bliss!
Must see: Saltdean Lido
Saltdean Lido is the country’s only Grade II* listed lido. The 1930’s outdoor swimming pool has been refurbished recently and opens just for the Summer season. It’s wonderful in the Summer and there’s something really special about being able to swim outside in Britain. If you’re ever in town at the end of the season, their Dog Pool Party is a hilarious sight!
Centreparcs
Originally created in the Netherlands, Centreparcs is the ultimate in nature-based mini breaks. An absolute British tradition, Centreparcs is even more fun as an adult. Check into a chalet with your mates, get the wine in and cure your hangover with a walk through the forests. The scenery is always unreal and the country air will do any city-slicker some good.
Where to stay: Exclusive Lodges
If you’re looking to upgrade from the usual chalets, you’ve got to check into one of Centreparcs’ luxury Exclusive Lodges. All Exclusive Lodges have a sauna, steam room and hot tub (yassss!). They also have a games room with pool table which is perfect if the weather lets you down.
Must see: Longleat Forest, Wiltshire
Spectacular scenery and hundred-year-old Giant Redwoods greet you as soon as you arrive at Longleat Forest. Located in the valley is a stunning lake, the perfect place to hangout or get out on the water trying one of the many activities.
Knowsley Safari Park, Liverpool
Maybe not one to take your brand new Range Rover to, Knowsley Safari Park is one of the best Safari Experiences in the UK. A stones throw from Liverpool, this drive-through Safari has been welcoming visitors for over 43 years. Their Baboon section is infamous for unpredictable (and sometimes risque!) behaviour, so be sure to have your camera ready as it’s definitely Snapchat worthy.
Where to stay: Suites Hotel & Spa – Knowsley
Not too far from the Safari, Suites Hotel & Spa is 4* and works as the perfect base if you’re looking to head into Liverpool for the night after a day of hanging out with the animals. Check into one of their modest suites for a comfortable stay and grab an Uber to the city centre for a night on the tiles. Neighbourhood calls!
Must see: Rhino Keeper Encounter
A literally once in a lifetime experience! Take to the Safari with the Safari’s animal team and drive out to meet the parks crash of White Rhino! For around two and a half hours, you will be with the animal team experiencing what it’s like to look after the needs of these extraordinary animals. Your experience includes a drive out to the rhino section, meeting the rhino crash, and being on rhino patrol.
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What’s your favourite nostalgic trip? Let us know on @house_of_coco
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