The Isle of Man – Striking Contrasts

Small is beautiful

Small could indeed be beautiful. It is true of the Isle of Man, a small island in the Irish Sea that lies between Britain and Ireland. It has an amazing range of wonderful things to see – both natural and man-made.

Travelers get fascinated by the diversity of the island’s stunning landscapes. Its beautiful hills and forested green valleys contrast starkly with arid cliffs rising dramatically from the shores of the ultramarine sea.

The island is also steeped in history with archeological remains that invaders from across the seas, especially the Vikings, had built centuries ago. This wonderful island has something to offer to all travelers irrespective of their age and personal interests. Even those who don’t want to do anything, the Isle of Man assures them of providing absolute relaxation!

An enchanting island

But this enchanting island won’t let you idle away your time lying on one of its many still unspoiled beaches, or swinging in a hammock in its forested glens, staring at the blue sky and – depending on your location – the bluer Irish Sea. It will provoke you to indulge in many touristy activities. For example, taking a long-distance walk along the coastline that may take a week to complete.

Island activities

Walkers’ paradise: The island, especially its coastline, is a veritable paradise for those who love to walk through picturesque landscapes. Walk along the 100-odd miles stretch of a track meant only for walk called Way of the Gull  through the countryside and coastline. Spend the night in hamlet and made advance reservations through an experienced local tour operator. You will find good eating joints and resting places all along your marathon walk. The best way to explore the island is on your own two feet.

Exploring ancient relics: During your walk you will come across old castles and fortresses; functional lighthouses; ancient sites where our ancestors used to worship and bury dead bodies.

The blue infinity: The Irish Sea and the island’s coastline are absolutely stunning. Besides their scenic beauty, these will also give you the opportunity to explore the island’s abundance of marine life. Watch the leisurely flights of elegant seabirds over the sea, hunting for catchable  fish.

Land of contrasts

The Isle of Man is perhaps the only place on earth where you will still find horse driven tramcars, old Victorian railways driven by steam engines, and also superb racing automobiles with powerful German engines and sleek elegance of Italian designed bodies.

Reaching here

It is easy to reach here from Britain and Ireland either by air or by sea. A more exciting way to reach here is by boat that will take you to the Sea Terminal in Douglas.

Getting around

You don’t have to walk if you don’t like it. You can travel by train, bus or hire a taxi or a motorbike.

Accommodation

You will find budget accommodation, inns and camping sites if you are explorer type and fond of walking. Wide range of conventional and luxury hotels are available.

Stay at Port Erin and the South Barrule Cottage if you want to stay in style and spoil yourself by indulging in luxury. It was originally a humble barn located in a rural area, now converted into a luxury hotel with ultra modern facilities. You will have the luxury of exclusive beach and golf course facilities at the cost of temporarily abandoning your smoking habit and a meager Pound sterling of 675 a night!

You can  get a reasonably good hotel for 26 Pound sterling a night. Consult websites and select a hotel that catches your fancy.

Food and nightlife

Pubs are in abundance in the island where you will get good food and varieties of drinks. The island also offers various types of nightlife not only in its main city Douglas, but also in other towns. There are also many nightclubs that offer live music and other performing arts like plays.

Shopping

You can’t leave a nation of shopkeepers without buying something. The best buy will be a guide book to the island for about seven Pound sterling. You will find it useful during your visit and bequeath it to a friend after your sojourn ends to encourge her to visit this fabulous island!