An alternative New Year on the Isle of Man
Why not do something different for New Year’s Eve this year and see in 2010 with a visit to the Isle of Man, one of the best kept secrets of the Irish Sea. The Isle of Man offers the perfect alternative to the usual New Year antics.
Only a 20 minute flight from Liverpool or under an hour from Manchester, it’s an ideal alternative if you want to stay close to home this New Year but are still looking for a break after the hectic Christmas season.
Here are just a few of the many activities the Island has to offer to New Year travellers:
New Year’s Day Dip
The infamous New Year’s Day Dip takes place on New Year’s Day at a number of beaches around the Island including Peel, Castletown and Laxey. The chilly event sees brave people running into the sea for a ‘dip’ in order to raise money for charity.
For the Love of Food
Food lovers can celebrate the start of 2010 in style and comfort at one of many local family-run pubs found across the Island who provide a friendly environment, as well as the opportunity to taste local delicacies such as the Queenie, a Manx Queen scallop. For something a little stronger you can warm your cockles by sampling one of the locally brewed ales.
A Bit of R&R
If it is relaxation and reflection you’re after, how about blowing away some of those cobwebs after one eggnog too many? With over 500 miles of great walking routes on stunning coastal and inland paths, the Island provides an exhilarating setting to start afresh and kick off 2010 with a bang. Whether you want to take a boat trip to spot one of the Island's seal colonies or wait until dark and do some star gazing under some of the best skies in the British Isles- there are plenty of places to get away from it all on the Isle of Man.
For peace and tranquillity, make a trip to see some of the seventeen national glens on the island. Glen Maye, also known as 'The Luxuriant Glen', is the most well know with its spectacular waterfall - look out for the Waterfall Pub nearby serving real ale.
Get the Buzz
Adrenalin junkies are also catered for with a wealth of climbing and canoeing options at your fingertips. Let qualified instructors take you on your first gorge scrambling experience. Alternatively ask one of the activity centres on island for a tailored package for you and your friends, ranging from archery to team building activities. Visit adventurousexperiences.com or adventure-centre.co.uk to plan your adventure holiday.
Winter Wonderland
This year there is an Ice skating rink erected in the Villa Marina Gardens from the 24th of November 2009 to the 3rd January 2010. Tickets cost £7 online or £7.50 on the door. For more information visit sureskate.com.
The Isle of Man is only a short distance from the UK, but a world away from the hustle and bustle of the holiday season. Visit visitisleofman.com to plan your trip.
