10 delightful detours out of London

MANILA, Philippines - As if the Epic cruise of Norwegian Cruise Line is not over-whelming enough or London with its ridiculously infinite things to see and do, makes you still want to venture off into the rest of the United Kingdom, well, I can’t blame you. This territory of the royal highnesses is ample fodder for those with perpetual wanderlust. You just have to chuck that customary sense of refinement and propriety to the bin, and have some wicked fun. Here’s how:

1. Southampton: Why here, you might ask? Not so popular, true, but as Sherlock would say, “Elementary, my dear Watson.” This is the port where Epic docked and set sail for its maiden voyage with the media and travel agents. It’s bound to be special, and it is. The place is an international maritime city, also dubbed as the cruise capital of Northern Europe. Many luxurious liners have embarked on their voyages from here, as have historical ones, such as the Mayflower and infamously tragic Titanic. So if you’re a Jack and Rose fan, do a self-guided walk following the Titanic trail. If not, and you admire air rather than water, visit the Solent Sky museum and marvel at the major role Southampton played in British aviation.

2. Stonehenge + Salisbury: This is one definite stop I wanted to take, but apparently I overbooked my itinerary and had to skip it. (This is the time to say “Oh, b*llocks!” but a Brit friend told me it meant something more than its colloquial usage – Google it!) Stonehenge needs no description, which funnily enough is also what a few people told me: there’s nothing to it, just big rocks in a circle. Still, it is iconic and maybe just a little faith will unleash its mystical powers. Certainly some believe so, drawing a multitude of visitors for its Summer Solstice fete. Once there, might as well check out Salisbury for an old town feel. The Salisbury Cathedral, listed under the 501 Must-Visit Destinations series, has the tallest church spire in the UK; the world’s oldest working clock; and one of the four remaining original copies of the Magna Carta. 

3. Bath: Mr. Darcy, anyone? Jane Austen is the reason to go here, nothing else. Be transported to that romantic time with a landscape so typical to English classics. If only you can rent those costumes and perfect that accent.

4. Brighton: If you think England is dreary, think again. Frolicking on the beach is possible, just go to Brighton. Alive, upbeat and full of vivacity, no running out of things to try here: ooh and ahh at the Royal Pavilion with its surprising architectural style, trudge along the marina, do a photo-op at the postcard-worthy West Pier, shop around the indie boutiques at the cobblestone alleys of the Lanes and party at the clubs touted to be better than those in London.

5. Stratford-upon-Avon: Shakespeare. I, thank you, bow.

6. Oxford: While some prefer Cambridge, both are simply synonymous with nerds. Kidding. You might not have a diploma from either but at least you’ve stepped in its hallowed halls. Oxford is the oldest university in England. The architecture is just divine (as is everywhere, I think. Love, love Europe!). Then maybe drop in at the library, feel the wonder surrounded by all those books or go to the assorted bookshops around town directly. Plus, try punting, à la Venetian gondolier, and steer your wooden boat down the river.

7. Manchester: For the football fanatic, there has to be a pilgrimage to one club somewhere. Do the Manchester United tour.

8. Wales: While all those above are still part of England, an easy train ride from London, I say go all the way and explore each of the other countries that your UK visa allows. First stop, go west to Wales and experience the great British outdoors. The Welsh recommend bog snorkeling, coasteering, and if you can, climbing up Snowdon in the Snowdonia National Park.  

9. Scotland: After Wales, do a complete U-turn, head all the way north to Scotland, either by rail or catch one of those budget airlines like Ryanair. Like Wales, there’s a myriad of castles to raid, and more importantly, lochs to see (hello, Loch Ness), highlands to trek and whisky to sip.

10. Northern Ireland: Last and one of the best, with a little danger thrown in, is Belfast in Northern Ireland. A volatile past that can still be apparent, the city is undergoing redevelopment and pushing tourism. Streets are filled with signs and descriptions of every historical value. Look for the walls with the political murals and maybe get a semblance of the two sides of this country. With more time, go to the countryside out of the city, for one of the most spectacular coastal drives leading to Giant’s Causeway, the only World Heritage site in Northern Ireland. Close the whole trip with a stop at Bushmills distillery, and have some fine whisky.

For more information and booking details on  Norwegian cruises,visit www.epic.ncl.com or call 836-6830 to 32 for more information.