Cuba Holguin Things to do with kids

Whilst the main area is known as Holguin where we stayed was called Playa Blanca.  The resort is mostly known for the amazing beaches!

So what are the best things to do with kids in Holguin, Cuba. Here's my top 5.

Number #1 Swim!
The sea is crystal clear and just beautiful.  Get your sun cream on and dive in. Most of the hotels also have amazing pools which is perfect for cooling off and keeping the kids happy.

Number #2 Water sports
Sticking with the water you can try a Hobi Cat, pedelos, kayaks, snorkelling at most of the hotels in this area.

Number #3 Horse & cart ride
In rural places in Cuba this is still the most popular method of transportation.  We took an hour trip away from the hotel.  It was interesting to see some of real Cuba.  The homes, people and scenery.  Our guide took us to a locals home (described as a zoo) who rescued animals mainly birds.  She was so warm and welcoming.  

Number #4 Visit the Wednesday carnival (opposite Playa Costa Verde Hotel)

In our resort several hotels join forces and put on a weekly carnival.  There is a small shopping centre Bolera de Playa Pesquero, market (larger market is in Guardalavaca) and live music and dancing. Our hotel operated a shuttle train for a small fee but lots of people hired the old 1940's/1950's cars which look incredible. You can even try bowling at Bolera el Pescador.

Number #5 Visit Dolphins at Delfinario de Bahia de Naranjo
This is a small but well looked after dolphinarium. We ummed and ahhed due to animal welfare but it really was a highlight of our trip.

We also took a trip into Holguin city which was very interesting but a little too long and hot for the kids.  It was a great way to see more of Cuba.  Large parts are incredibly rural which I had not expected. Holguin City itself is very built up and busy which after the calm of the countryside was an assault to the senses.  Everyone we encountered on our trip was extremely friendly and great with kids.

Northampton Active - White Water Rafting

Recently Northampton Active got in touch about visiting to try White Water Rafting.  It's something I've never tried before and a place I've drove pass many times and wondered what about so decided it was a big fat yes!

Myself and daughter (12) turned up at Northampton Active on a very grey rainy Saturday morning not quite sure what to expect.

After quickly signing in you go upstairs to watch a short information video.  It is up here any family or friends not taking part can stay dry and grab a cuppa.

The video was informative & fun and then it was time to get suited up for your 2 hour session.

To help keep you warm a wetsuit is worn over your own swimming costume/shorts and then a jacket is worn over the top, life jacket and helmet.  Wear shoes you don't mind getting wet, some old trainers will do the job perfectly. Once suited up it is swiftly down to the course & into your raft.  The rafts were bigger than I expected, 100% safe and easy to get in & out of.  My daughter was a little nervous of falling out but the instructor noticed this immediately and reassured her.

Image from Northampton Active

Our first lap of the course was fairly dry but don't be fooled you do get wet! The wetsuits really help but by the end we were all a little cold but it really was FUN!

You complete a few laps of the course, jump in, lie down for part of the course and plunge down a rapid! My daughter wasn't so keen on the jumping activities but happily watched the rest of us & there was no pressure from the instructors.

I would 100% recommend and happily go back.  Myself & my daughter want to try paddle boarding in the spring and she'd like to have a go at kayaking (she's done it before & enjoyed it).

Obviously at this time of year it's going to be cold but it was bearable and you warm up quickly afterwards.

I would advise to go, have fun, get wet and take some warm snuggly clothes for afterwards.  If you have active teens or looking for ideas to get them off the PlayStation give it a try.  The white water rafting is for 12+ and the tubing is for 7+.

They offer white water rafting, white water tubing and holidays clubs (£30 per day for ages 7 to 17) at this time of the year.  For full details check out their website https://www.northamptonactive.com/  

**Disclaimer I received a free 2 hour session for 2 people in exchange for this review.  All opinions are my own & honest**

Brunch at La Terraza Upton, Northampton

This morning we went to La Terraza in Upton for brunch.  I didn't know they had a breakfast/brunch menu so was very pleasantly surprised to be invited. Their breakfast menu is served 9am till 11.30am (except Monday's) and has all the usual suspects but with a little twist. Potatas bravas is served with the breakfast completo, eggs benedict and eggs Florentine. Sandwiches and toast are ciabatta which I love.  There is a good mixture of vegetarian meals and kids are catered for.

The Upton La Terraza branch feels warm and cosy.  Today was pouring with rain and the lighting made it feel welcoming. We ordered breakfast completo, eggs benedict for the adults and a sausage sandwich and jam on toast for the children.  We enjoyed everything. It was presented well and good quality ingredients. I'd happily recommend and return.

La Terraza would be the perfect place to pop for a coffee and chat after the school run or treat breakfast.  I noticed on Twitter they also do a match day/park run special.  If you have a full breakfast or breakfast sandwich show your matchday ticket or park run barcode and you'll receive a free takeout coffee. Parkrun is every Saturday 9am at Upton Country Park. Next time you are nearby pop in.  The staff are friendly and children are welcome.

More pictures over on instagram Life in the Mum's Lane Instagram

**disclaimer I received this meal for free in exchange for a review.  All opinions are my own and honest**