Skippered Yacht Charter Holidays

If you are a person whose perfect idea of a summer holiday or vacation is enjoying a thrilling life out on the open ocean then there is surely no better break for your tastes than a yacht charter holiday. Enjoying the sea air and beautiful sunshine is a great way of getting away from it all and forgetting all the stresses of your daily life by exploring the unspoilt beauty of the open ocean. Such experiences are rarely surpassed, and you a certain to enjoy an unforgettable experience.

If you are not an experienced sailor then fear not – these wonderful experiences are still available to you. By choosing to book a skippered yacht charter holiday, you will have the opportunity to utilise the experience of a qualified and friendly skipper and crew who can help make your sailing holiday dreams into a reality. By choosing a skippered yacht charter holiday you will be able to enjoy all the good things you would expect from such a vacation but without the stress and strains of manning the yacht yourself.

By drawing on the expertise of an experienced sailing crew, you will also be able to draw upon their knowledge in terms of the best holiday destinations to sail to and also the many superb places and attractions you can to visit inland – whether you are enjoying a yacht charter holiday in the Mediterranean or Caribbean. Simply turn up with all your kit packed up and let the skipper and his crew do all the hard work as you sail away on your dream break.

The Thinking Man’s Barcelona Stag Do

Stag weekends have something of an image crisis to attend to, especially in the UK. It seems barely a week goes by without a new story about “Brits abroad” getting in trouble on foreign soil, whether it’s scrapping with the locals or being too drunk to board the flight, sometimes the point that’s forgotten is there is a market for men looking to expand their cultural horizons with their “last weekend of freedom”.

For these more aspirational types, a Barcelona stag do might be just the ticket thanks to the cities’ peerless emphasis on good living as well as the small matter of the city being home to one of the best football teams the world has ever seen.

For foodies Barcelona might just be one of Europe’s highlights owing to the cosmopolitan outlook the city boasts. There is a world of international delicacies on offer but if it’s a more traditional Catalonian experience that your stag party is seeking, there’s a great selection of restaurants you should be targeting. Dos Palillos on C/ Elisabets serves traditional Spanish tapas infused with Asian influences, which, on paper admittedly sounds like a bit of a muddle but it’s well worth a visit.

Alternatively, if you’re looking to eat well but at a budget, keep an eye out of the Menu Del Dia, which translates at Menu of the Day where you can pick up a salad, a main dish, a drink and a dessert for as little as a tenner – just use your discretion as the quality will vary. Generally, a good rule of thumb is to stay off the tried path – take a detour from the more touristy spots and you’ll save money and get great quality food to line your stomachs before heading out to some of Barcelona’s plentiful night spots.

Give the identikit pub crawls a miss on your journey here and do some research before you travel otherwise you could be faced with the less than ideal scenario of paying top dollar to drink in places that will be much the same as you’re used to in the UK. These are the places that arguably give the whole Brits abroad thing its reputation. There’s a lot more to be said for stepping out of one’s comfort zone and giving the cities’ tapas bars your onceover. Here you can get a light bite of some authentic Spanish tapas free with your drinks. Alternatively, head for any bar with Chupitos hanging above it, Chupitos translates as “shots” and here you can get a start on a Barcelona stag night that will live in infamy.

So there you have it, an introduction to the Barcelona stag do with none of that unsavoury business of being a bad ambassador for your country. Pick up a phrase book, ingratiate yourselves with the locals and see your stag do as being the perfect opportunity to expand your horizons and you’ll be rewarded with a stag weekend experience that will last a lot long in the memory banks than your average binge’s wrecking ball.

Things To Look for in Travel Insurance

Everyone knows that no matter where your destination, travel insurance should be the first thing you pack when heading on holiday. However, with all the policies out there, it can sometimes be confusing to know exactly what you need when buying insurance.

Emergency medical and repatriation costs are a must with any policy. While the majority of holidaymakers enjoy their long-awaited trip abroad without incident, if something does go wrong travel insurance medical policies can provide invaluable help in a time of need. In an emergency money should be the last thing on your mind; not only do travel insurance policies cover medical costs in an emergency, they also pay for you to fly back to the UK if necessary.

Furthermore, those travellers that are worried about going abroad with a pre-existing medical condition can get cover for this. It is important to seek out a policy that will cover any treatment that could become necessary when on holiday due to a pre-existing illness to ensure you're not caught short.
Cancellation cover is another great feature of many policies, which is particularly important for travellers who have shelled out a lot of money for a top-notch holiday.

One aspect that all Brits should look for from their travel insurance is access to English speaking medical experts. Trying to access medical help in a foreign country can be difficult and daunting, but with 24-hour English speaking experts to hand, travellers can get all the help and support they need.

When picking a travel insurance policy, it is important to take into consideration what type of trip you are embarking upon. Different policies are available for different types of trip such as wedding or golfing, while a range of diverse activities also have various types of cover, that can often be added on top of a standard policy.

Driving Holiday Checklist: Five Checks You Need to Make

Heading abroad in your own car can be an incredibly effective way of seeing the sights. Not having to rely on public transport while you’re away can open up the opportunity to see and experience more of the country in question than you could have otherwise hoped for.

That said, taking your own transport comes with its own issues. If a train or bus breaks down while you’re away then it’s a minor inconvenience -- but if your own vehicle takes a turn for a worse then it could become a major headache working out how to get it back home again. To avoid such issues it’s an idea to double check a number of things before you set off.

Tyre Depth/Pressure

If you’re going to be putting in some major mileage during the weeks that you’re away then you owe it to yourself to check that your tyres are up to scratch. Grab a tread depth checking tool to ensure that the tread on your tyres is well within the legal limit -- and refer to your vehicle’s handbook to check that they’re inflated to optimum levels.

Oil and Water

Both of these might be something you generally take for granted but it’s vital that you check the levels of both before you set off -- and several times while you’re away. If you’re unsure of where your levels should be, don’t take any chances. Consult a professional at your local garage to give the all clear before you leave.

Local Laws

Remember that things like the speed limit or maximum legal blood alcohol limit may differ in your destination country than in the UK. Ignorance of local laws won’t be a good enough excuse if you get caught breaking the law, so read up well in advance.

Insurance details

Does your car insurance policy cover you in the country you’ll be driving in? If you’re not sure, get on the phone to your provider and find out. It may be that you have to pay extra to get covered while you’re away -- if so, don’t be tempted to skip it and save some cash. It really isn’t worth the risk.

Breakdown Blues

Similarly, your breakdown cover won’t necessarily stretch to the country you’ll be visiting -- although some providers will happily cover you in Europe, for instance. Check with the company you have cover with and extend your cover to the country in question if needs be.

Italy Amongst Best Holiday Destinations in Europe

Italy is a truly beautiful country to visit and offers a range of unforgettable holiday destinations -whether you are travelling to see the fantastic historical buildings you would find in the country’s capital Rome, the great shopping experiences available in modern Milan, the unique canals and side streets found in Venice or the outstanding natural rural beauty that typifies the region of Tuscany. Put together, all of these places make Italy one of the best holiday destinations in all of Europe.

     The country draws in visitors from all over the world for a wide variety of reasons – some will travel to Italy on backpacking trips, some on romantic breaks and others will visit Italy on family holidays. However, regardless of the type of holiday on which you are travelling, you are always going to need somewhere to stay.

     While backpackers may choose to find more budget accommodation such as a youth hostel, others may seek to stay in one of the stunning old hotels. If you are looking for accommodation in Italy, the best way of finding it is by searching online as this can result in great discounts and save a lot of time searching travel agents in the high street.

Best Stag Weekend Activities in Europe

If you’re set to be a best man in summer 2012 then you’ve probably already been nominated with the all-important task of organising a stag weekend for your brother or best mate and all of the other lads in the new year – and of course there is therefore always a lot of pressure to create one of the best activity weekends that you’ll never forget. With that in mind here are some great stag weekend activity ideas to get the creative juices flowing...

Quad Biking – Get a great adrenaline rush as you cruise around in the dirt at high speeds for some fast and furious and seriously laddish fun. Race your mates and see who comes out on top.

Military Vehicles – Lets be fair now, is there anything more manly than driving a tank? Well now you can make all those boyhood dreams come true and drive a range of military vehicles around specialised designed courses in great locations across Europe.

Snowmobiles – Fancy something a bit different on your winter stag do? You can now find snowmobile driving opportunities in great European locations like Krakow and Riga.

Alternative Holiday Destinations You May Not Know Of

Many people who travel to Europe will often visit big famous cities like Paris, Barcelona or Rome - but have you considered an alternative holiday destination - perhaps somewhere you may not know much about and is perhaps internationally less well known? In this blog post we look at the fantastic skiing destination Tsakhkadzor in Armenia and examine the intrigues and charms of exploring Castles in Denmark.

Skiing in Tsakhkadzor

There are many great ski resorts in Europe in countries like Austria, France, Switzerland and Italy but if you are looking for something a bit different why not take a trip to Tsakhkadzor, Armenia. Located approximately a 1 hour drive away from Armenia’s capital Yerevan and standing over 1800 metres above sea level on the South Eastern edge of Mount Teghenis,  Tsakhkadzor offers excellent snow for skiers and snowboarders as well all the facilities you would expect from a great ski resort - such as great bars and restaurants. However, the city is also steeped in history and offers some great architectural attractions such as churches and monasteries dating back to the Middle Ages.

Visiting Castles in Denmark

If you fancy something a bit different from your city break why not pack your bags and head to Copenhagen to check out some of the stunning historical buildings of the city? The country is filled with some fantastic castles and other historic buildings dating back to the 1300s and in Copenhagen you can find some of the best. Amalienborg for example is the home of the Danish royal family and comprises of 4 separate palace buildings - each of which are superb to behold in their own right. As with Buckingham Palace in London, tourists flock to Amalienborg to see the ceremonial changing of the guard and enjoy a key piece of the country’s history and culture.

Best Stag and Hen Weekend Destinations in the UK

Let’s face it, stag weekends and hen weekends in are always pretty crazy and usually boozey affairs – and while some people will choose to travel to destinations for Europe for their big night out (often to get as far away from their bride or groom to be as possible), there are still plenty of great locations in the UK in which to have your stag or hen weekend at a fraction of the cost. Here are some of the most popular destinations in the UK:

Blackpool – If ever there was a town designed to welcome gangs of lads or girls for a mad weekend it is Blackpool. Take a trip up to the North West coast for hundreds of bars, pubs and clubs galore. Test your hangover by riding rollercoasters on the pleasure beach, get kitted up in fancy dress on the promenade or take a trip to the beach.

Leeds – Leeds has arguably the best nightlife in the north of England with fantastic clubs like Space and Gatecrasher. There are also some great outdoor activities you can take part in in the countryside around the city, such as paintball and clay pigeon shooting – or you can take a hike on the moors of nearby Ilkley.

London – Ladies on a hen do can shop til they drop in the heart of England’s capital. Nightlife is more varied and cosmopolitan than in most cities in the world - so both stags and hens are sure to find a pub or club to suit them and their mates. Take a trip on the London eye and see all the sites during the day.

Stunning Beaches in Europe

Winter’s come-a-knocking but if you’re a sun worshipper looking to escape the wintery blues of home, here are some of the most stunning destinations in Europe to help you plan your next beach holiday.

Source: Creative Commons

You may be stuck in Coldsville at the moment, but keep your hot water bottle close and keep on dreaming of summer 2012. Here are some gorgeous beach destinations to keep your spirits up until the bitter weather blows over...


The Best Beaches in Europe:

Croatia

Croatia has grown into one of the more recent top party destinations for group holidays. But the country still maintains its dignity as a cultured and beautiful holiday location. The Blue Flag Baska Voda beach sits neatly in the breathtaking view of the Biokovo Mountains and Krka National Park is also a coveted hotspot of incredible beauty.

Bulgaria

Known worldwide for its golden sands, Bulgaria is still a place of unspoiled beauty. Because the beaches are closely monitored and regularly maintained, the area will hopefully remain unspoiled for as long as possible.

Greece

Myrtos beach in Kefalonia is one of the most dramatically stunning beaches around, a true picture of beauty and a wonderful melting pot of soft sands and limestone pebbles.

Top Winter Travel Destinations in Europe

Winter is a beautiful season for travel and some of the best holidays in Europe are during the colder season. Whether you’re interested in living abroad during the winter, or you just want a short weekend break, here are some of the most beautiful winter travel destinations...


1. Austria – the city of Vienna is a stunning centre of architectural beauty, and in the winter it is a treat for all of those who appreciate the romance of a cold winter’s day. Austria also offers various skiing locations with luxury chalets and cottages.

2. Finland – home to Lapland, Finland is truly one of the most beautiful winter holiday destinations in the world. It is also one of the few places on the globe where you can catch the breathtaking sights of the Northern Lights.

 
Source: Creative Commons
 
3. Germany – Frankfurt is home to the original Frankfurt Christmas markets. Here you can enjoy the sights of the annual giant Christmas tree and a variety of interesting market stalls. Enjoy a mulled wine as you watch the world go by or shop around for unique gifts and crafts which have been handmade by locals.


4. Iceland – Reykjavik is one of the strangest cities in the world, surrounded by landscapes which are just out of this world.

 
Source: Creative Commons

Renting Log Cabins with Hot Tubs – The Best Relaxing Holiday Possible

If your idea of a great holiday is kicking back, relaxing and enjoying time spent together with your best friends in beautiful natural surroundings - then renting out log cabins with hot tubs in fabulous locations right here in the UK may be the perfect break for you. Typically accommodating up to 7 people, renting out a log cabin can be a fantastic way of escaping all the stress of your job and instead having a long weekend off to put your feet up. You may choose to either spend a romantic weekend with your partner or as a group of friends, colleagues or classmates but you are sure to have a memorable and fun holiday right here in the UK.

     As the nights draw in here in the UK and winter is moving in, it may seem very tempting to take a holiday overseas during the winter – but renting a fully centrally heated login cabin featuring a beautiful warm hot tub will ensure you can beat the cold weather and stay snug and warm regardless of the time of year in which you choose to take your holiday. The modern styling of the majority of the UK’s log cabins also adds to your luxury holiday experience to make you feel all the more at ease in your stay.

Student Travel Insurance: What to Consider When Buying

As a student heading out to see the world, you quickly realize there are many reasons you need a flexible travel insurance policy that can cover many of the contingencies you may face while out on the road. If you are travelling for research with graduate programs online or travelling with a student group, it is important for you to be covered in an emergency.

Not only do you need adequate health coverage, but you will want to consider covering personal property so you can replace your valuables if they lost or stolen. You can even purchase a travel insurance policy that will refund your money if your trip is cancelled or you miss connections and find yourself stranded.

Existing Health Insurance Coverage

If you have existing health insurance, review it carefully to see what it does and does not cover when you travel abroad. Some policies are only good in the country of origin, while others offer limited coverage while you are traveling.

The more expensive health insurance plans often cover you when you travel but require main office approval to authorize treatment. You also need to check for provisions covering such extreme conditions as quarantines or emergency evacuations. In such situations, even if you are in good health you could be facing challenging circumstances where the right kind of coverage would make rescue services available.

Carefully go through the list of exclusions in an existing health insurance policy to see if there are stipulations about covering accidents while intoxicated or that prohibit participation in certain sports. Consider if you will have the resources on hand to pay the current deductible amount or if you should arrange to have it decreased in exchange for paying higher premiums while you are traveling.

Travel-Only Health Insurance Coverage

If you are traveling abroad through your college or university, they might have requirements regarding the type of health insurance needed to participate in their program. Consult with the student health insurance office since they typically offer flexible, low cost plans that can be tailor-made to suit the regions you will be visiting.

If your travel is not directly related to your school, or if your classes are online, you will want to find an independent insurance travel agent that offers health insurance packages that can be set for the specific dates and locations where you will be traveling. These policies can be piggybacked on existing health insurance plans to provide extended coverage only for those contingencies not covered by your primary carrier. Group contracts are awarded to insurance companies who specialize in international travel and extend to leisure activities that may be associated with a group trip.

Check the insurance policy to see if they offer assistance finding medical care in other countries. You may want to confirm that they will reimburse you for medical expenses like prescriptions so you have the option to pay cash up front.

Another factor to consider is pre-existing conditions caused by injury, illness or disease since most policies automatically exclude coverage. You have to sign a pre-existing condition waiver and purchase that part of the coverage in a lump sum before you leave.

Other Travel Insurance Policies

Along with the mandatory student travel health insurance, look into coverage for such nightmare scenarios as losing your passport and identification or having your luggage stolen in transit. You can also obtain travel insurance that will refund your money if your trip is cancelled or you have to return early because of an emergency at home.

Ideally, student travel insurance should be broad enough to cover all contingencies so you can seek and receive medical help, have lost or stolen valuables replaced, and have resources available in case your travel plans abruptly change, but you shouldn’t have to pay outrageous prices for most plans and can often get a student discount. Looking on online forums and insurance review sites can also help you look for highly recommended insurance options available.

Best Holiday Destinations in Europe: Edinburgh

Edinburgh is widely regarded as one of the best holiday destinations to visit in the UK and offers a fantastic mix of rich Scottish history, heritage and traditions fused with the latest ground breaking arts, comedy and experiences. Named as a UNESCO world heritage site in the year 1995, the city is famed for its varied architecture and cultural experiences. With attractions and buildings spanning its long and rich history, Edinburgh offers holidaymakers the chance to combine visits to medieval castles, palaces and buildings as well as impressive gothic styled churches which also find spaces standing alongside some truly stunning modern architectural creations.

     Edinburgh is also without a doubt one of the best holiday destinations in the UK to experience some superb and exciting live events that are sure to excite and intrigue the British tourist visiting the city for a weekend, as well as backpackers travelling across Europe and visitors to Scotland taking holidays from overseas. Such is the wide reaching nature of the appeal of events such as Hogmanay (Scottish New Year celebrations) the Edinburgh festival and Fringe, and the pomp and ceremony of its world famous military tattoo that those visiting the city should plan well ahead. Indeed, getting accommodation of any kind in Edinburgh during the festival season around August to September and during the new year is extremely difficult and may need to be booked as long as a year in advance in some circumstances.

     Accessing the city from the UK can be easily achieved by train, with the main station Waverly regularly accepting numerous daily services from across the country. If you are visiting Edinburgh from Europe or further afield it is possible to fly to Edinburgh international airports and then take a Edinburgh airport taxi into the city. The airport is the most popular and frequented in Scotland and takes in flights from around Europe and the rest of the world.

The 3 Best Travel Destinations in Europe

Europe is packed with fantastic places to go travelling, but there are certain places which have so much charm and such a wide range of attractions that you can’t help but go back. Below are my 3 top travel destinations in Europe that i will continue to return to time and time again:

Paris, France

Known as the city of love, but it’s so much more than that. Paris has everything; stunning icons, great food and all the attractions of a capital city. No matter what type of holiday you want to take, Paris will cater to your needs. Those wanting to sightsee and explore some of the most recognised spots in the world will be happy walking the streets from Notre Dame to the Eiffel Tower to Montmartre. If you fancy a more relaxed break then you can wander through the beautiful parks, checking out the quirky fountains and stop off for coffees and hot chocolates all day long. Paris’ only drawback is the strain it puts on the purse strings, but even if you just head over for a long weekend you can guarantee a rewarding a stay. Sante!

Lake Bled, Slovenia

A stunning getaway for those wanting to escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The town of Bled is tucked away not far from Slovenia’s capital Ljubljana and is based around the shores of the beautiful lake. If all you want is some peace and quiet set on a mountain backdrop the Bled is the place for you. For those who are ready to incorporate a bit of activity into their visit then hire a boat and row out to the island at the lake’s heart and explore the beautiful church which stands high on its crest. You can even ring the church bell...

Budapest, Hungary

Budapest is a city of two halves which it seems you can never fully explore. Every time you go back you will discover another corner of the city which you didn’t know was there, filled with great bars, noisy restaurants and packed with locals. There’s plenty you’ll find first time around as well mind. Split into Buda and Pest by the Danube, the city boasts beautiful Baroque, neoclassical and art nouveau architecture to satisfy anyone’s needs and enough parks to shake a stick at. The Danube itself is a great way to explore, hopping on and off as you please and cruising down river when you fancy resting tired legs. If you need even more rest and relaxation then the numerous Turkish baths will help on that front. One of the resident burly Hungarian men will even give you a rub down if you ask nicely. Once you’re suitably refreshed it’s time to hit the town and Budapest can match any city for a good night out, hence its popularity for stag and hen dos. No matter what you go for, Budapest will show you a good time.

  

This is a guest post from Tom at Top Backpacking Destinations – you can follow him on Twitter: @BackpackerBoy

Does My Breakdown Cover Policy Cover Me in Europe?

To do true justice to many of Europe’s more scenic and rural holiday destinations, either taking your own car (and thereby being all but bound to the consequences and limitations of travelling by ferry) or alternatively taking up the option to hire a car upon arrival at your destination is all but essential if you are to get the maximum enjoyment out of your trip. I would suggest that it is all but impossible to fully enjoy all the stunning natural beauty of some of the greatest European holiday destinations such as for example Tuscany, The Greek Islands, Ireland etc. without the freedom to drive off and explore these brilliant places and their unspoilt natural scenery without having a car at your disposal.

    

But what happens if the worst comes to the worst and you have a breakdown or mechanical fault with your vehicle? If you are based living in the UK, does your current breakdown cover policy cover you for travel overseas and in Europe? Are there any limitations to the length of period of which you are covered in such territories?  Such factors are key things to consider if you are planning on using your own car or hiring a car in Europe. If in doubt, it is highly recommended that you take the time to study your existing policy documents or contact your insurer directly to establish the limitations and terms of your breakdown cover.

    

There is nothing worse than having a dream holiday ruined by unforeseen problems, and unfortunately such things can happen to any of us. By establishing whether or not you are covered prior to departure you may save yourself a whole heap of hassle in the long-term. Even if your current policy does not cover you for breakdowns outside of your country of residence, there are now short term breakdown policies available that can for example, cover you for short holiday periods ranging from 1 to 30 days, based on which region of Europe to which you are driving. Investing in such as policy will give you greater peace of mind and freedom to enjoy your holiday and explore the rural reaches of Europe without the fear of being stranded should your car break down.

Why Getting Organised For Your Holiday Will Save You Money

With a long-awaited holiday on the horizon, it’s easy to let your excitement get the better of you. There are certain holiday essentials that can easily get overlooked as you get swept up in thoughts of lazy days on the beach or culture-filled walks around the city, so be sure to make yourself a checklist before you go.
While booking flights and accommodation will be the first things on your mind, you should also put some time into researching the best possible deal for travel insurance. Not all policies are the same, so don’t make the mistake of simply going with the cheapest option. Be sure that your chosen policy covers all angles – if you’re going skiing or snowboarding, for instance, then you may well need to take out a policy that has specific winter sports cover. Do your research and you won’t go too far wrong.

 Something else you should sort out well in advance of your trip away is travel money – it’s easy to pay over the odds for your travel money so look around for your best options before you go. Bowling up at the airport and changing your money on the day you fly is a sure fire way to pay the maximum as currency exchange companies based in an airport know that they have a captive audience. Search out your cheapest options online before you go to get the best deal.

For similar reasons, you should always pre-book your airport parking if you’re going to be leaving a vehicle there while you’re away. Search online for the different available options for the relevant airport and get it booked as early as you can to ensure you get a good price. If you turn up on the day and pay there and then, you’ll undoubtedly be paying more than you need to.

If you’re planning to hire a car in your destination country then once again it pays to book it online before you go. Prices will be significantly cheaper if you’re booking via the company’s website rather than turning up on the day, so seek out your best deal using the internet in the lead-up to your holiday. Similarly, booking activities such as attraction tickets before you go can often be a good idea as these are often available at a discount online if you buy in advance.

Best Holiday Destinations in France – Nice

The beautiful city of Nice or indeed Nice la Belle as the locals so frequently refer to it is undoubtedly one of the best holiday destinations that France has to offer. Situated on the South East French coast there is much more to this historical and fascinating place than just the consistently great weather that it experiences – with mild winters and fantastically sunny summers.

Take a stroll along the Promenade des Anglais and absorb all the customary charm of the French coastline that understandably attracts thousands of visitors each year – making it France’s second most popular holiday destination. Enjoy all the hustle and bustle of milling around the city squares such as Place Massena and Place Garibaldi. Wander around the city and take in its beautiful architectural features with the hot sun on your neck. Nice will offer visitors a fine unique taste of the South of France. If you are looking for a place to stay you could consider booking out holiday apartments in Nice France, or for those who are privileged to afford it you should check out the luxurious and famous Hotel Negresko.

Best Holiday Destinations Outside Europe – New Zealand

If you are considering taking a holiday a little further afield than the confines of the continent of Europe this summer, there are of course many great places around the world to choose from. However, when it comes to those people who have a great sense of adventure, want to travel to distant lands and that have an undying passion for the great outdoors, why not think big and take the plunge and travel to New Zealand.

When it comes to unspoilt natural beauty, New Zealand has to be one of the best holiday destinations outside of Europe – and what better way to enjoy the scenery at your own pace and leisure than taking advantage of the services offered from many of the great campervan hire companies. Campervanhire New Zealand allows holiday makers the freedom to explore this great nation without constraint - and lets travellers reach the more remote locations away from the city. Take your time to travel across both the North and South Islands and explore the country and see the beautiful night stars. With stunning national parks that are just begging for a visit, you can enjoy hiking and other outdoor pursuits and at the end of the day you will always be sure you have a bed that travels round with you!

Key Things to Plan for Your Holiday in Europe

So your flights are booked, the hotel reservation has been made, you are confident you’ve got a fantastically priced deal and you are finally starting to day dream and get excited about your forthcoming summer holiday outing in Europe. It’s natural and extremely easy for people of all ages to get sucked in to all the excitement and hysteria that surrounds a summer vacation, but in order to get the best out of your holiday there are several key things to remember to sort out before you get on the plane and jet off to the summer sunshine.

     First of all, regardless of your destination in Europe, one thing you are almost certain to need is local currency to spend on your holiday – regardless of whether you plan to live lavishly or prudently on your visit. While these days it is possible to get currency at the airport and on arrival at the holiday destination you are visiting, it is almost inevitable that exchanging cash in the local bureau de change will leave you a little short when it comes to getting a fair exchange rate. Planning ahead therefore, you should always consider places in which you can get commission free travel money. There are now a number of online venders who offer a commission free service on Euros and other European currencies, and will allow travellers cheques and holiday money delivered to your door at your convenience. Services such as this are quick and convenient – particularly if you are unable to get to the town centre in the days leading up to departure.

      Another thing any holidaymaker should never leave home without is travel insurance. While the last thing anyone wants to feel before they set off on their summer holiday is pessimistic, it goes without saying it is always better to be safe than sorry. Curtailments and cancellations are unfortunately things that can affect all of us when we least expect it – and while it may be the last thing you want to think about on a holiday trip you should never get on a flight without already having sufficient medical cover in place for the region to which you are travelling. Travel insurance policies these days are very competitively priced and can be easily sorted out before you travel by booking online – so for the sake of a few quid you can have much greater peace of mind should the worst case scenario occur.

Best Winter Holiday Destinations in Europe

When looking for a fabulous winter adventure, why not consider activity holidays in Lapland, Finland where fun and excitement is awaiting the entire family on an adventure break. Visitors can plan a guided winter adventure that consists of snowmobiling, dog sledding and hiking through the beautiful landscape. Tourists to this winter wonderland will also have the unique experience of seeing and learning about reindeer.

Husky dog sledding is one of the more popular activities in Lapland. This is an adventure that will be remembered for years to come and makes for a great family experience. Not only will visitors have the chance to experience dog sledding, but they will get to see some of the most beautiful winter scenery in the world.

Lapland is the perfect destination for any family that is looking for great outdoor adventures on a holiday. From spending simple days hiking on snowy trails to the excitement of a snowmobile race, Lapland has so much to offer visitors. There are also many fine resorts in the area, so after a long, cold day communing with nature, families can retreat to a cosy fire for a night of relaxation.

One of the most exciting and unique experiences will be viewing the northern lights. There are guided tours in the evening that will take travellers to remote locations for a perfect view of the lights in the sky. A winter holiday to Lapland will be as exciting as it is relaxing and will make for precious memories in the future.

Umbria or Tuscany for your Next Italy Holiday?

When planning a holiday to Italy, one of the places you should ensure that you spend some time in is Umbria. This region is known as the “Green Heart” of Italy because of the vast rolling hills and it is this beautiful vista which has contributed to Umbria becoming one of the top holiday destinations in Italy.

While in Umbria, make sure to pay a visit to Perugia, an ancient capital of the region. This town has a lot of history much of which is still apparent from the ancient buildings and these now sit comfortably alongside many modern buildings including a University.  The city is also home to an internationally known Jazz Festival and a Chocolate Festival both of which should definitely not be missed.

Assisi is another ‘must see’ destination on an Umbrian holiday. Once a Roman colony, Assisi is known for being the home of Saint Francis and the tomb of the Saint can be visited at the Saint Francis Basilica which is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Italy.

If you are looking for a quiet and romantic Italian holiday, consider Tuscany. This is a region full of breathtaking architecture, beautiful landscapes and amazing Italian cuisine all of which make Tuscany a popular destination for newlyweds.  The romance of the area can be felt throughout the region and with the option of renting luxury Tuscany villas and farmhouses, you will surely find the perfect romantic getaway in Tuscany.

Italian holidays are becoming more and more popular every year and Umbria and Tuscany are likely to remain at top of the list for popular destinations for some time. Both have great qualities that make them amongst the best holiday destinations in Europe.

Tenerife or Gran Canaria for Winter Holidays in Europe?

Tenerife and Gran Canaria are both popular destinations for a winter holiday. Their all year round comfortable climates and abundant sunshine make them ideal choices when tourists are looking to escape the harshness of the winter at home.

Tenerife holidays in winter make for an interesting option because it offers a large selection of island houses that can be hired as holiday homes. Many of these homes are located on some of the best beaches in the area, including Playa Grande, Playa las Vistas and Playa Las Gaviotas. The beaches themselves offer useful tourist facilities and an array of water sports, making this a great location for families.

For those who don’t want to spend their whole holiday soaking up the sun, Tenerife is also a great place to explore Mount Teide, an active volcano. This is an experience that no tourist should miss on their holiday with the summit reminiscent of a lunar landscape.

The climate in Gran Canaria is warmer than Tenerife and is correspondingly one of the most popular winter holiday destinations. There are some beautiful beaches which are well served by local restaurants, bars and shops.  There are also conveniently situated golf courses and the nearby streets are quiet and quaint and house many small coffee shops and eateries.

Gran Canaria is known for having an active nightlife and is a great choice for younger visitors. There are many bars and nightclubs that come alive after the sun sets so when travelling on a winter holiday with a family, Tenerife may be the better choice because there are more family oriented activities and sites to visit.

Meribel: Amongt Best Ski Holiday Destinations in Europe

Meribel is home to some of the most interesting skiing in France and the valley itself has more than 100 miles of trails to ensure that skiers’ interest does not wane whilst on holiday. The valley is situated so that skiers are in the sun all day, making this one of the best skiing holiday destinations in the world. The resort have ensured perfect powder throughout the season with snow machines, which are used to keep all slopes nicely covered for a full season of ski activities. Meribel is also known as a great resort for those learing to ski for the first time and Meribel ski schools are some of the best in the French Alps.

Any visitor will have a thrilling experience on the slopes because despite Meribel being a challenging mountain, it is so designed that it offers slopes for every skier, from beginner to expert. The extensive lift system is laid out in such a way that it ensures that all skiers will have no problem reaching the summit and choosing their slope.

A key feature of Meribel is the V shaped valley which adds to the excitement and challenge of the more advanced slopes, with some steep descents ideal for more adventurous skiers.  Guides are available for skiers looking to tackle these challenging slopes in a safer way with advice on how best to approach these new slopes.

There are also designated areas for those who snowboard. As with the ski slopes the designated boarding areas have slopes to suit all levels of ability.  This has become one of the most popular ski resorts in the area, attracting thousands of skiers and boarders each season. With classes available, families with small children can enjoy the slopes and guides are always available for those who wish to tackle the expert areas.

Renting Luxury Holiday Homes in Italy

Finding the best luxury holiday home in the best location is an important part of planning your Italian holiday. Tuscany is home to some of the most luxurious and extravagant villas in Italy and renting an Italian holiday home in this iconic location will provide you with the experience of a lifetime.  Choose the right option and you will find yourself living in the lap of luxury while on your holiday

Many of the holiday home rentals in the area include private pools, gardens, fireplaces and Jacuzzis. Most rentals are available for a week at a time or longer if you want to make that fantastic trip even better. All are very spacious and completely furnished, so you will never want for anything and very quickly you will feel right at home while staying in a luxury villa.

For a taste of the truly rustic Italy, there are also some farmhouses that are available to rent as a holiday home. Whilst by their very nature these will not provide many of the modern amenities of a villa, the farmhouses do provide a charm and luxury quite unlike anything else. The traditional exteriors are beautifully complemented by the furnishings which are often ornate and antique, making for a romantic atmosphere throughout your stay. The farmhouses are set on beautiful tracts of land, surrounded by breath taking gardens, trails and scenery that cannot be found elsewhere.

Renting a luxury home is one of the best ways to enjoy a holiday in Italy. It allows you the freedom to go out and enjoy the country and then return to the comforts of home.

Discover The Secrets of Hidden Provence

Provence in France is a rugged region that still has some of the old Provencal values of the simple life. Many people travel to this region to get a taste of true French history, to learn about the local culture and to experience some of the finest French cuisine available anywhere in the country. While almost everyone is familiar with Provence, there is another area that many tourists are unaware of, the Haute Provence, which is located just northeast of Marseille.

     This location is not a tourist trap. Instead, it is full of real people living a simple life. The countryside is spectacular and makes for some amazing photo opportunities however the land in the area is not fertile and local farmers will work narrow terraces that are built on the hillsides. These provide just enough room to grow some vegetables. Unlike other areas in France, the landscape is not as lush with flora and fauna, but the scenery is still breathtaking.  Even with the unfertile land, visitors will notice a large array of medicinal herbs growing virtually everywhere.

     The waterways of this hidden Provence, including the rivers of Verdon and Durance are beautiful. In fact, the road that travels along the Verdon River is known as one of the most exciting drives in all of Europe.
The cuisine in the area cannot be explained, it must be experienced. The cooking is simplicity at its best and many of the ingredients are grown in the wild and almost every dish will contain an assortment of locally grown herbs. Cuisine wise, the area is known throughout the world for what is regarded as a delicacy; that of the black truffle.

     One of the best ways to enjoy a holiday in this unforgettable region of France is to rent one of the many holiday villas in Provence, as these are often historic farms and houses located in beautiful villages.

Best Golf Holidays in Europe – Spain or Portugal?

Spain and Portugal are two hugely popular destinations for people looking to go on a golf holiday. Since the climate is comfortable all year round, these countries can offer golf throughout the year which is clearly an enormous draw for all golfers.  The sheer number of courses on offer also means that players will get to enjoy the sun and the variety of playing a number of different courses on their golf holiday.

     When planning golf holidays in Spain, one of the most popular locations to play at is Costa del Sol. Here, golfers will find a selection of beautiful courses including the Valderrama Golf Course.  In 1997, Valderrama hosted the Ryder Cup and has since been a top golf destination for players from around the world. Other areas of Spain that are also great choices for golf include Costa Blanca, Almeria and the Costa de la Luz which has become a very popular area for those looking for a memorable day on the golf course. Spain is one of the cheaper countries in which to play golf, especially on the Costa del Sol and this is due to the sheer number of courses and the corresponding competition between them which drives down the prices in order to attract players.

     Portugal continues to be one of the more popular destinations for a golf holiday. In the Algarve, players will have the opportunity to play on some championship courses, including the notable Pestana resort. There are a number of stunning golf courses in Lisbon, which also include fine hotels located next to many of the courses to make the golfing holiday even more enjoyable.

Buying a Holiday Home in the Algarve Sun

Many people have the dream of owning a holiday home in Portugal, and locations such as the Algarve are very popular. This area is known to be a piece of heaven where you can retreat from the chaos of everyday life and relax in the sun. The mild climate and laid-back lifestyle make for the perfect holiday home location.
 
     The Algarve is one of the most ideal destinations in the world for buying a holiday home because here holiday homes are affordable and the climate of Portugal makes it a location that can be enjoyed all year long. When buying property in the Algarve sun, there are some important things to consider, including the most obvious factors, those of location and price. Many people who are looking to purchase a holiday home want to be in a remote area that is nonetheless also in close proximity to a city. On the Algarve this is eminently possible along with buying a holiday home that nestles beautifully by the water’s edge.

     The property prices will vary, depending on the size and location of the home, so once you decide how much you can afford; selecting the perfect home from home will be the fun part. There are many beautiful homes available, all within close proximity to sandy beaches, great golf courses and the capital city of Lisbon.

     Buying a holiday home in Algarve Sun should prove to be a rewarding investment, providing you and your family with a perfect getaway destination whenever you need it.

Non Euro Holiday Destinations - Botswana Safari Holidays

If you are considering a holiday destination beyond the realms of Europe, Botswana safari holidays are becoming increasingly popular - and for good reason. Botswana is an interesting country which features so much more than just deserts and arid land.  Botswana has some of the best wildlife viewing opportunities in the world making this location a very popular destination in which to take a safari holiday.  A key part of the country in which to view some of this wildlife is the oasis of lagoons and waterways which make up the Okavango Delta. The lush watering holes which prove a draw for the wildlife will ensure that any safari holiday here will provide a wide range of exotic flora and fauna, including wild birds, giraffe and zebra.

Visitors looking to see the magnificent elephant herds should ensure that they also spend time in the Chobe region, where the elephant population is high. The beauty of Botswana is such that whatever time of year travellers visit there will be fantastic sights to see.  When visiting between November and March, tourists will be able to watch the migratory activities of various birds and between December and May is a great time to see vegetation and blooming flowers.

Botswana safaris make for the perfect holiday for any family. It is a learning experience for children and adults and a rare opportunity to see some of the most amazing creatures in the wild. Botswana ensures that tourists will be able to choose between a variety of safaris. They can, for example, spend time on small boats in the river viewing birds and marine life, or they can venture into the plains to see wild elephants, baboons and other unique animals.

A Botswana safari holiday will be like no other holiday and will create family memories which will last a lifetime.

The Best Beach Holiday Destinations in Menorca

The island of Menorca is home to some of the best and most beautiful beaches in the Mediterranean.  Alongside this beauty is the key advantage that many of the beaches include the use of facilities and have been specifically developed to accommodate tourists.  The Arenal d’en Castell is one of the more popular beaches and this is directly attributable to the bay of crystal clear waters and fine sand.  This is one of the most visited beaches by tourists and it correspondingly offers refreshments and a variety of tourist services.

Binibequer is a smaller beach that offers a bit of privacy for visitors.  Despite its small size it also provides all of the useful tourist trappings and has many areas of shallow waters that make for a perfect outdoor beach holiday for families with small children.  The Cala Blanca and Cala en Porter beaches are also excellent tourist beaches conveniently located for easy access from some of the more popular resorts in the area.

When looking for natural beauty, one should look no further than Cala Santa Galdana. This beach is located near a large resort and has beach services, facilities, water sports and is consequently a great choice for any travelling family. For those that are seeking a bit of adventure on their trip to the beach, Cales Coves is the place to go as there are more than 100 caves that can be explored and a cliff that looks over a bay. This beach offers the best alternative to a day lazing in the sun and the variety and number of caves on offer is likely to keep the most energetic holidaymaker busy all day.

St Ives, Cornwall – One of the Best Holiday Destinations in the UK

When people travel to the UK there is a natural tendency for the majority of visitors from overseas to gravitate towards the city of London. While the country’s capital does of course have a great deal to offer backpackers, families and couples alike including many great visitor attractions, it is completely wrong to assume that this is all the UK has to offer. Above all else, the country has some highly underrated coastal regions that are great ways of seeing a different side to the countries history and heritage rather than just the usual London based tourist traps.

     Amongst my personal favourite places to visit in the UK is Cornwall. The region – based at the countries most south westerly tip – offer beautiful scenery and coastline, great beaches, towns, restaurants and pubs which are ideal for visitors from the UK and abroad. The weather is also generally considered to be amongst the best in the UK, with some very comfortable summer temperatures and high sun levels for the UK making it a great place to stop off at if you are looking for a short summer break.

     

     Younger party seeking visitors and fans of surfing will enjoy the popular destination of Newquay, but there are other great places to visit in Cornwall including Padstow (famous for Chef Rick Stein’s seafood restaurant) and St Ives - which has a thriving artistic community and heritage. If you are a traveler seeking to cut back on costs or enjoy cooking your own food, self catering St Ives can be booked online, but during the peak summer months in the UK can tend to become busy – so book early in order to avoid disappointment. The town also hosts a 15 day arts festival in September that proves very popular and draws a great deal of visitors to the town, so during this period you may also find apartments in St Ives become less readily available. Another option for accommodation could be to stay in a Caravan Park in Cornwall which can offer dog friendly options for people visiting the region.
 

Ensure You Have Medical Insurance Before You Travel

Whether you are planning a 12 month backpacking trip visiting numerous great destinations around the world or are simply planning a short weekend break in one of the many top cities that Europe has to offer, you should always consider one simple thing before you travel - are you covered in case of a medical emergency? While the potential possibility of being either injured or sick whilst on a holiday break or backpacking excursion is of course the last thing anyone will want to be thinking about in the build up to the big day when you get on that plane and set off on the trip of a lifetime - it is highly advisable that you take the time prior to departing to get suitable travel medical insurance that will cover you for your given destination and also that incorporates cover for the full length of  your stay.
     When booking travel insurance cover it is also critical to ensure that your policy will also provide adequate cover for all the activities you are likely to undertake during your trip - particularly if you are planning any potentially dangerous activities such as skiing, water sports or bungee jumping. Always study the small print and key points of the policy carefully and take into account any excess you may have to pay in case of having to make a claim. In order to take the hassle out of booking travel insurance, there are now a number of travel medical insurance comparison sites you can use to quickly compare the price of travel insurance policies that offer the cover you may need for your holiday. Policy prices will differ depending on your length of stay and holiday destination but always remember it is better to be safe than sorry.

Tenerife Ranks Amongst Most Affordable Family Holiday Destinations in Europe

In what remain difficult financial times for many UK families, it is to be expected that perhaps now more than ever, holidaymakers in the UK are spending greater amounts of time searching for the perfect family holiday packages that offer fun, great weather and relaxation and everything else you would expect from a family break – but critically; all at the best possible price. With the ongoing impact of the economic recession still lingering large over the heads of the European holiday industry, there has therefore been a noticeable knock on effect of increasing pressures for travel agents and holiday companies alike to provide even greater value for money for their clientele – but without any noticeable detrimental impact on the quality of holiday experience. Whilst many holiday destinations in both Europe and further afield have felt the effects of the global economic recession on their tourist sectors over the last couple of years – it may be surprising (but reassuring) to know that recent figures suggest some of Europe’s best loved holiday locations remain as popular as ever for UK tourists.


Indeed, it seems it is not all doom and gloom for UK holidaymakers, as in many respects the increase in competition and greater economic restraints being experienced by British families is in some cases driving the cost of family package deals down – thereby making more and more cheap holidays and flight deals available on the high street – but particularly from online agencies and websites. These have in turn helped some of Europe’s most popular destinations rise above the holiday industry slump. One such example is the island of Tenerife which has for many years been a highly popular destination for holidaymakers from the UK. Figures suggest that Tenerife has in experienced a growth in visitor figures during 2010 – even at the height of the UK recession - with reported growth figures in the early part of the year around the 2.5% mark compared with those observed in the early months of the year 2009. With cheap holiday deals and flight bookings available online through a range of vendors it seems that destinations such as Tenerife are set to remain extremely popular in spite of tough economic times for many families.

Delving further into these trends, analysts within the tourism industry have suggested that recent growth in some of the newer resorts in the Northern region of the island such as Las Caletillas becoming increasingly well known internationally may have contributed to this growth for the island of Tenerife in particular, although some similar growths in visitor numbers of approximately 2% have been experienced in some Southern sections of the island. Here, holiday resorts such as Los Cristianos and Playa De Las Americas are as always proving to be amongst the most popular visitor destinations for holiday makers from the UK and Europe.

Live the Holiday Highlife with Skippered Yacht Charter

For those that are lucky enough to be able to afford it, there are surely few better luxury vacation experiences that can be had in Europe than those that can be found on a skippered yacht charter holiday. Close your eyes and think of life on the ocean waves in the hot sunshine with the cool gentle breeze on your face and embrace the thought of what can only be described as a truly unique holiday trip. Such experiences can be a genuine once in a lifetime event for an individual to take alongside their family, good friends or work colleagues - thus allowing them to enjoy all the excitement, adventure and pleasure you would expect of any great sailing holiday in Europe with a group of your closest companions.

     Spending your time in the beautiful sunshine and open ocean is something many of us can only dream of but skippered yacht charter holidays allow this dream to become a reality - and with the added benefit of having an experienced skipper and crew to help you learn and hone your skills, you can be more assured and at ease whilst traveling across the seas. Skippered charter holidays offer all the great benefits of bareboat charters - but with an experienced skipper on board you can also allow yourself more time to sit back and enjoy the finer things in life. Skippered charter vacations are available in many European locations but primarily in the Mediterenean regions of Greece, Turkey, and Croatia - all regions of Europe that are fantastic to visit in their own right.

Terrific Tuscany - Birthplace of Modern Europe

Few existing regions of Europe can surely paint such a romantic and idealistic picture in ones mind than those that are drummed up by the sheer imagery of Tuscany and its stunning historical capital Florence. Famed the world over for its rich and immeasurably important historical contribution to the fields of European arts, music, the sciences and high culture - the region that has over the years remained synonymous with the birth of the Italian Renaissance offers holidaymakers and backpackers from across the globe a unique flavour of Europe that is quite unique and apart from any other area of Italy, Europe or any other place in the world.

     Famed for its museums and galleries including the Uffizi and Chianciano art museums that offer intriguing and stimulating insights into Europe's artistic traditions and history, Tuscany gives the visitor a sense of true awe - and if you can take the time to soak up the information and stunning visuals on offer here, hopefully an enhanced understanding of the region's lasting influence and legacy on modern Europe. Alongside the great Renaissance works that are housed in the museums of Florence (including such famous paintings such as The Birth of Venus by Botticelli), the entire region of Tuscany is dotted with beautiful churches and cathedrals each with their own beautiful and attractive interiors and ornate decorations.

     When looking at the various accommodation available in Tuscany you will tend to find that it is incredibly varied and is largely dependent on which area of the expansive 8,800 square mile region in which you find yourself in. With places to stay ranging from high priced but exceptional hotels to some equally fantastic villas in Tuscany with pool in some of the more rural areas. Hiring out a villa in Tuscany can be a great and relaxing way of spending a holiday with your partner in beautiful surroundings and rich history and culture.   

Heading Out to Malaga for Your holidays

There has always been a tradition for Brits to head abroad for their summer holidays, and when you consider the steady stream of poor weather that we all have to endure throughout the winter months it really is no surprise! By the time we enter spring, everyone is longing for the sort of sun and warmth that can only be provided by a weather system not found in our own country!

Obviously finances play a huge part both in terms of where people go, and whether or not they go at all. With this in mind it is important to consider the more affordable places to visit which will give you a total chance of scene, as well as climate.

One of the first places to spring to mind is Malaga, in Spain. Spain is renowned for being a cheap place to stay. Food and drink is a fraction of what you would expect to pay here in the UK, and on top of that, the coastal resorts surrounding Malaga have wonderful weather records. Of course, despite the fact that flights to Spain are in general very affordable, you still have to consider trying to find the best deals, which is why you should think about having a look at off peak flights to malaga. You can save a lot of money by searching in this way and getting there cheaply will only make you value your holiday even more!