Inspiring Local Adventure

Real Girls Travel is a dynamic local travel and staycation blog designed to inspire and empower you to explore on your own terms. From far-flung destinations to hidden gems closer to home, this blog offers a wealth of authentic travel stories, practical advice, and curated itineraries to suit all tastes and budgets.

Whether you’re dreaming of a city break, a beach escape, or a countryside retreat, this blog is your inclusive guide, providing all the tips and insights you need to make every journey unforgettable. Whether you’re travelling solo, as a couple, or as a family with your furry friend in tow, you’re part of our travel community.


Discover My Hometown

Cardiff, my hometown, is a city that feels like a best-kept secret, where history and modern life blend effortlessly. From the moment you step foot in the city, you can feel the vibrant spirit that makes Cardiff so special. Discover why it’s so special:

Free things to do in Cardiff

Things to do in Cardiff

There are so many tourist attractions to suit all tastes, including historic castles, green spaces, the waterfront, and even a beach.

Vivo Amigo Cardiff

Food and Drink in Cardiff

From the quality of the produce to the level of cooking, Cardiff is staking a serious claim to being one of the most exciting places to eat in the UK.

Insole Court Events Dog Friendly Cardiff

Dog-friendly Cardiff

If you are already in the city or are coming to the capital, rest assured there are plenty of dog friendly things to do. 

FREE Visit Cardiff Checklist & Guide

Get your FREE Visting Cardiff Checklist and Guide with over 25 pages full of travel tips, how to get around, places to visit, food and drink, shopping, parks and green spaces, some Welsh phrases and a travel itinerary.



Staycation Destination Collections

an old castle under cloudy sky

Wonderful Wales

Wales has a distinctive culture, including its own language, customs, politics, history, and distinctive traditions. 

cat standing next to the tamar river

Discover Devon

From dramatic coastlines to rolling countryside, Devon offers a diverse range of experiences for adventurers, history buffs, and foodies. 

Cornwall is Calling

Uncovering the natural wonders, cultural heritage, and hidden treasures of one of England’s most captivating counties.

Jersey, Channel Islands

Jersey is the largest of the Channel Islands. It has a unique blend of British and French cultures set in the beautiful waters of the English Channel.

Erddig National Trust

National Trust

Over 500 historic houses, castles, ancient monuments, gardens, parks, and nature reserves to be discovered throughout the UK.

green moss on brown tree trunk. Hidden gems in the Cotswolds

Other Staycation Ideas

The best adventures and experiences I’ve had have been right on my doorstep. From Bristol to Manchester, to Plymouth to the Cotswolds.

Travel Essentials

Discover practical and stylish solutions to enhance every aspect of your journey, ensuring you’re well-prepared for any destination. 

Travel Gifts

From luggage tags to passport holders, hotel discounts, to visitor attractions, these gifts will surely bring a smile to any jet setter’s face! 


Latest Posts

  • Where to Find the Cherry Blossoms in South Wales

    Where to Find the Cherry Blossoms in South Wales

    Springtime in South Wales is like stepping into a dream – a pink, fluffy, petal-filled vision! If you’ve ever wanted to wander beneath canopies of delicate cherry blossoms without hopping on a flight to Japan, you’re in luck. Right here in Cardiff and South Wales, we have our own spectacular Cherry Blossom Season, giving seriousContinue…


  • Ahead of the Game Cardiff Reviews

    Ahead of the Game Cardiff Reviews

    Brunch, Gains & Good Vibes in Whitchurch If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably promised yourself this is the week you’ll get back on track with eating better… but you also want to eat out, especially as the number of exciting independent places to eat in Cardiff is exciting. Enter A-head of the Game inContinue…


  • The Harbour Seafood Restaurant Plymouth Review

    The Harbour Seafood Restaurant Plymouth Review

    Visiting The Harbour Seafood Restaurant in Plymouth has become our little tradition. Every time we return from a trip to Looe and Polperro in Cornwall (full of fudge and pasties, but still mysteriously hungry), we make a pit stop here. And it never disappoints!


  • Sushi Life Cardiff – A Taste of Tokyo in the Suburbs

    Sushi Life Cardiff – A Taste of Tokyo in the Suburbs

    Visiting Sushi Life Cardiff has taken me way too long as a Whitchurch girl. But the wait was worth it. If you’re searching for the best sushi in Cardiff, look no further! This delightful Japanese restaurant in Cardiff offers a diverse menu brimming with delectable dishes from sushi to ramen and katsu curries to sashimi.


  • Sunday Lunch at The Instow Arms

    Sunday Lunch at The Instow Arms

    After a day of exploring in the winter sun on a chilly February evening, we found ourselves in Instow. If you’re craving a traditional Sunday roast with all the trimmings, the Instow Arms is the place to be. Just make sure to bring your appetite – you won’t want to leave a morsel behind!


  • Dining at The Waterfront Inn Westward Ho!

    Dining at The Waterfront Inn Westward Ho!

    If you find yourself in the charming coastal village of Westward Ho! – the only place in the UK with an exclamation mark as part of its name – then head to one of the pubs in Westward Ho! The Waterfront Inn. Nestled right by the beach, this family-friendly establishment offers a warm welcome toContinue…



Most Read – Top Posts

wild swimming in south wales

Wild Swimming in South Wales

South Wales is the perfect for open-water swimming. With plunge pools, luscious lakes, relaxing rivers, wonderful waterfalls and seaside surf. 

Quiz night in Cardiff

All the Quiz Nights in Cardiff

Whether you’re a trivia buff, a social butterfly, or simply looking for a fun night out, Cardiff’s array of quiz nights offers something for everyone.

Afternoon Tea on Princess Cruises

Afternoon Tea on Princess Cruises

Tea at sea? Yes, please! The indulgent experience is available on sea days and includes sandwiches, scones, cakes and sweet treats.

Gwaelod y Garth

Dog-friendly Restaurants in Cardiff

Why shouldn’t well-behaved dogs be allowed inside restaurants? Some of the best places in Cardiff to eat and drink allow you to bring your dog. 

National Trust Vs English Heritage

Which is best? If you are considering getting a National Trust or English Heritage Membership, I’ve done the work for you.

Everywhere serving Afternoon Tea in Cardiff

Experience a delightful afternoon tea in Cardiff. Freshly baked scones, finger sandwiches, and indulgent treats are served with a pot of tea.

Discover Welsh Food in Cardiff

Cardiff is overflowing with authentic dishes from a mouth-watering lamb cawl to a Welsh-inspired pizza, or laverbread and bara brith. 

Bottomless Brunch in Cardiff

Plenty of places offer bottomless brunch, where you get delightful dishes and free-flowing drinks. Here are all the city’s brunch hotspots.

Exciting Dog Walks in Cardiff

With so many green spaces, parks and gardens. It is easy to forget about the hustle and bustle of the city is often behind the treeline. 


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