Travel to Tenerife

Are you looking to find a bargain for your family summer holiday, then why not check out Tenerife, it’s the most popular of the Canary Islands and caters perfectly for families and offers ideal cheap holidays in 2012. The Canary Islands are popular with British tourists, the warm climate and great weather conditions make it perfect for a break away.

One thing you will notice with Tenerife and this goes for all the Canary Islands is that they don’t offer many golden sandy beaches, most of the coast line on the islands is very rocky with volcanic ash. However on Tenerife you will find some golden sand beaches, with sand that has come from the Sahara desert. Many of the most popular resorts are centred on these beaches, offering tourists the feel of many popular Spanish holiday resorts. You will get plenty of beach restaurants and bars as well as plenty of water sports on offer to keep you entertained during the day.

For entertainment on an evening you really are spoiled. There are lots of restaurants in all of the resorts offering cuisines from the traditional Spanish fare to other worldly cuisines. And don’t worry for those who like home comforts there are plenty of restaurants serving traditional British food so you can even get you traditional fry up on a morning to a good old Sunday roasts.

For those looking for family entertainment, on an evening many resorts hold shows centred on families, with plenty of activities for kids and mini disco’s. So if you after a more lively nightlife then you’re sure to find it in Tenerife. There are a plenty of bars on offer in all of the popular resorts as well as late night clubs for hard-core partiers.

Tenerife like the other Canary Islands has more than just sunshine on offer, away from the beaches life turns more to the traditional, so you can easily get away from the hustle and bustle of the resorts. These volcanic islands offer a wealth of history and have plenty to explore.

Recommended resorts for families in Tenerife include; Playa De Las Americas, Costa Adeje and Puerto De La Cruz you can easily find plenty of great deals to these fantastic resorts which should make for a great 2012 summer holiday.

Ski in Paradise – Paradiski

The French Alps are dotted with ski resorts and holiday villages.  Paradiski is one of the better-known resorts, situated in the Savoie region.  Here, Les Arcs joins with two other ski resorts, La Plagne and Peisey-Vallandry, to boast 425 kilometres of slopes and over 150 kilometres of cross-country skiing.

From Les Arcs, look upon the majesty of Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in Europe.  The height of Paradiski ranges from 1,200 metres to 3,250 metres above sea level.  This range means there is guaranteed snow – 70% of the slopes are over 2,000 metres.

Whether a beginner or more advanced, whether skiing or snowboarding, Paradiski has slopes that are suitable.  A secure area for beginners allows for initial mishaps and falls, while cordoned off areas of powder snow caters to free skiers and snowboarders.  Those interested in tricks and flips can take advantage of the two snow parks and half-pipes.

The resorts of Les Arcs and La Plange are connected by the world’s largest cable car, the Vanoise Express.  All three resorts combine ski-village luxury and efficiency to ensure holidaymakers have a memorable stay.  From hotels to self-catering, having a place to relax after a long day of skiing is essential, as is participating in the famed Apres Ski.

Paradiski offers more than mere skiing – bobsleighs, ice climbing, and “joering” – that is, clinging to a horse while standing on skis – create an unforgettable winter experience.  Spa days are offered throughout all the resorts and make a wonderful contrast to the cold outside.  A relaxing massage or visit to the sauna will melt away any aches and pains.

Luxury Caribbean holidays – Jamaica

Anyone looking for luxury holidays will be expecting to find more than just fine white powder beaches. A luxury holiday is all about five-star accommodation and if you are in the mood for real luxury and a little pampering, Caribbean holidays come close to the top of the list.

Most destinations have a prestige collection of accommodation that is sure to suit your every need. Whether you are looking for world-class spas or expect to be served by a butler on a yacht, there is no doubt you will find what you are searching for in a number of Caribbean destinations.

One of the most renowned Caribbean islands catering to the luxury market is Jamaica. Not only does this island overflow with Reggae beat and exquisite natural surroundings, it is also a great place to explore. The island has much more to offer than just clear blue water and white sandy beaches. Visitors can enjoy sheltered bays, secluded hideaways and sandy coves, backed by countless waterfalls, rugged mountains and mysterious caves.

For the ultimate in relaxation, book a room in a discreet and secluded hotel. There are elegant properties in Jamaica that do not equip their rooms with televisions, radios or even clocks. Imagine yourself surrounded only by the sounds of nature where, for a week or so at least, time does seem to stand still.

Allow your evenings to be filled with games of croquet or sink into the comfortable patio furnishings as you sip champagne and enjoy caviar. This unique luxury Caribbean holiday destination can be whatever you want it to be.

Taking an Hawaiian holiday

Hawaii is a beautiful place to go for a memorable holiday. In the Hawaiian Islands you will see shades of green you never knew existed. Everywhere you look you will see gorgeous, lush green landscapes and stunning beaches. There is a little something for everyone on Hawaii.

The island of Hawaii or ‘The Big Island’ is a very tourist friendly area. If you want to enjoy delicious cuisine and experience a vibrant nightlife, this is the place to be. However, if you prefer a quieter environment, the smaller island of Kauai is a wonderful place to visit. Kauai is often referred to as the honeymooner’s island, because it is so quiet and features mostly an untouched natural landscape.

If you cannot decide what sort of holiday you are looking for when visiting Hawaii, do not fret. You can easily fly from one island to another. Typically, the cost of plane tickets between the various islands of Hawaii is minimal. Short flights often depart multiple times per day, enabling you to visit several islands during your stay.

Places to Stay in Croatia

In Croatia, fine resorts, camping, picturesque holiday homes and cheap apartments are all available for rent in every region. This diverse range of accommodation makes all parts of the country accessible to tourists. If you need help, every town has a ‘Turisticki ured’, a tourist office, which can make any travel arrangements for you.

For adventurous travellers, there are lighthouses built on small islands in Dalmatia and Istria, which have been divided into apartments sleeping up to four people at a time. There are also houses, villas and studio apartments available for rent in Istria, Dalmatia, the Plitvice Lakes and on the islands of Brac, Hvar and Korcula.

Many budget apartments are leased to tourists by their owners, which often means you can negotiate a rent you can afford. An example of this type of accommodation is Apartments Mladen, in the village of Sucuraj, on the island of Hvar. These apartments are minutes from the beaches and all amenities. Each apartment has ocean views from the balcony and a fully equipped kitchen. There are also private rooms available for visitors to Croatia and these are advertised at resorts and bus stations.

Tips for Spending Less on Air Travel

The world’s economy has definitely influenced the way we all travel.  Airlines have started charging a la carte for many of their services including checked bags and beverages.  Major airlines have gone bankrupt while others have jacked up their prices.  So, how can you spend less on air travel this year?

Airline sales are fewer and farther between than they ever have been, but you can still find a great deal if you know some of the best-kept secrets when planning your holiday.  Keep these tips in mind as you plan your next holiday in Benidorm or all inclusive sunshine holiday:

Search Online

There are a number of websites that help savvy airfare seekers find the best prices on flights all over the world.  The secret is to be flexible with your dates of travel so that these online tools can search a much wider expanse for your tickets.

Use Credit Card Points

It seems that every credit card offers some kind of reward.  Why not apply for an airline credit card and build up frequent flyer points that way?  You may find yourself spending less on airfare when you’re using points accumulated as you pay bills and buy groceries.

Pack Light

Most airlines charge for checked bags these days, so pack light to save a little money.  If you are going on a short holiday, stuff everything into your carryon bag.  Just remember to pay attention to any liquid restrictions at the airport – you may find yourself throwing away toiletries just to get through security.

Bask in Luxury Spas and Accommodations at MAIA during Seychelles Holidays

Beyond the spectacular stretches of sand, swaying palm trees and gentle lapping turquoise waters are the hidden gems of the Seychelles:  relaxing, powder soft sandy beaches blended with a network of signature spas, perfect for adding a luxurious touch to Seychelles holidays.  Many hotels are luxury resorts in the Seychelles that cater to travellers looking for astonishing accommodation and the very best in primping and priming. 

MAIA Luxury Resort and Spa meets every expectation of an upscale resort and is well known in the luxury travel sector.   Along with a variety of active and relaxing local and resort activities, MAIA promises a world apart from the rest and offers a resort of rediscovery and not only refuge.   It’s hard to dispute that while staying in the resort’s private villas that gracefully overlook the hilltop or even provide access to secret and hidden beaches and coves.  Villas provide complete amenities and are completely secluded from each other, for ultimate privacy.

Service reaches a new level at MAIA, whether it is through the professional services provided at the spas or en-suite services in the privacy of the traveller’s very own home away from home.  Complimentary aqua fit daily lessons are offered in each individual villa’s private pools, laundry services are free, and guests can enjoy free daily manicures and pedicures in languished relaxation with the en-suite painting kit.

The impressive and eclectic mix in MAIA’s full Blinese spa service menu includes variations of treatments so guests can pick and choose all manners of pressure, product and duration.  Indulge in treatments including the “Twenty Dancing Fingers” massage or a MAIA bath in the great outdoors in a unique and picturesque rock formation followed by a head to toe exfoliation, body smoothing polishing and toning treatment.

Gastronomical excellence is also a part of MAIA.  The resort promises not only a variety of meals and selection, but a wonderful fusion of flavours, cooking styles, textures, colours and aromas for a full sensory experience to delight the taste buds.   MAIA’s kitchen offers a mix of Mediterranean cuisine featuring Asian, Creole and French accents, with savoury concoctions to delight the senses.

Neon Lights and More at the Fremont Street Experience

When it comes to glitz and glamour, Las Vegas has few competitors.  The Las Vegas Strip may be at the centre of the action and where the major hotels are located, but any visit to Vegas should also include a trip to the Fremont Street Experience.

Fremont Street is a shopping mall in downtown Las Vegas.  Its most famous feature is the curved roof running the length of the mall which acts as a neon canopy and includes a spectacular light show every night.  It is this which has earned Fremont Street the nickname of Glitter Gulch.  In 2004 the system was updated and now boasts an LED display known as Viva Vision featuring 12.5 million lights.

Vegas would not be Vegas without casinos, of course, and there is no shortage on Fremont Street, including Binion’s, the Four Queens and the Golden Nugget.  There are also numerous shops, hotels, restaurants, bars and nightclubs as well as the Neon Museum.  The Fremont Street Experience is the place to be in Las Vegas on New Year’s Eve when it hosts a massive party with fireworks on the overhead display.

Is Hong Kong a Good Option for a Family Holiday?

Hong Kong is one of the most fast-paced cities in the world, and continues to grow day by day.  One thing about Hong Kong that many people do not realise, however, is that this city is an excellent option for a family holiday.

Attractions

One of the most popular family-oriented attractions in Hong Kong is Hong Kong Disneyland.  Visitors to this huge amusement park will find many of the same rides and attractions that are found at other Disney parks, as well as a number of unique, locally inspired additions. 

Another fun place in Hong Kong that is suitable for visitors of all ages is Ocean Park, which is an aquarium, oceanarium, animal theme park, and amusement park.  In addition to seeing fish and other sea creatures, you can also visit with tropical birds, see a panda habitat, and try an extensive collection of fun and exciting rides. 

For a break from the parks, families can visit the Avenue of Stars to learn more about Hong Kong’s film industry and famous film stars.  There are several statues that tourists like to be photographed with, including one of Bruce Lee.

Dining, shopping, and hotels

There are many different types of restaurants available that serve a variety of cuisines; these include popular Western chain restaurants that serve foods which are very popular with the kids.  You can also buy good, very reasonably priced food from the many street stalls located throughout the city.

Hong Kong also offers visitors an extensive range of shopping options, from large shopping malls to street markets.  Kids can easily find fun toys and other souvenir items to take home.

Because of the size of the city, there are also many excellent hotel options, including many family-friendly establishments.  A number of popular, upmarket hotels offer a full range of options for families, including onsite restaurants with extensive kids’ menus and child-minding services.

Seven tips for travelling to another Country

Being aware of certain things to keep safe from any mishaps is important when travelling to another country.
 
•    Learn their language:  A traveller should try to learn enough of the foreign language so they are able to ask for help or simple directions if needed.
•    Study the culture:  A traveller should learn about the people and the places they will be visiting so that they know what to expect and thus enjoy the trip more.
•    Make sure there is no unrest:  This is crucial if going to a country that has shown hostility.  If there is a chance of violence breaking out it might be advisable to cancel the trip.
•    Choose trusted tourist accommodation:  If a traveller does not know the area well, it is best to stick with a larger, more established hotel.  They have a reputation to uphold and will make sure a guest has a safe stay.
•    Do not look like a tourist:  Wearing expensive clothing and jewellery and driving a flashy rented car will make the holidaymaker stand out and be a target for a thief.
•    Check the coverage on your health insurance:  Make sure your policy covers health insurance for travelling overseas.  If not, it would be wise to get it.  It is no joke getting hurt overseas and having to pay out of pocket.
•    Check weather patterns beforehand:  Weather delays could interrupt travel plans.  Check in advance to make sure that no bad weather will be lurking ahead of the trip.