Bali is an amazing destination which is world renowned for its incredible paradise beaches and crystal clear waters. But when I visited Bali I found there was much more to it than just being a beach bum on a paradise island.
If you fancy a little bit different you should be sure to check out the things below:
Visit the Monkey Temple in Uluwatu
The temple in Uluwatu is home to a huge inhabiatation of wild monkeys who love to cause mischief amongst the tourists. Definitely one to check out!
Tanah Lot Temple
One of the most visited temples in Bali, Tanah Lot is the main temple of worship in Bali and is set in an amazing and dramatic location on the coastline.
Stay in a Paradise Villa
Villas in Bali can be some of the most luxurious in the world, but you can stay at them for a fraction of the usual price in amazing locations like Ubud. Sample some real luxury, enjoy a spa and unwind with the sea lapping at your door.
Eat at a Food Stall
One for most Asia destinations holds true in Bali. The street food is amazing and super cheap. Have a good chinwag with the locals while your at it.
Surf
This might fall into the beach bum category slightly but what the hell! Bali is a great place to catch some surf and even if you're a beginner you should give it a go in places like Uluwatu or Bingin.
Ant's Trails
Follow my wanderings around the globe and see the trail I leave behind...
Travel Insurance Advice from the Experts
Good travel insurance is not a luxury for a
few choice travellers; it is an absolute necessity for everyone. It is useful
whether you need travel insurance for a worldwide trip, are a luxury tourist heading to Dubai or a family on a tour of the
Caribbean. However, the specifics of insurance
vary from one traveller to another depending on age, distance, area of
visitation, and a host of other factors.
Travel insurance, and
indeed insurance in general, is complicated. Here, the devil is in the details.
Insurance companies seem to have perfected the art of impression, creating the
impression that everything is simple and straightforward, only to be hit with
surprises when you go to issue a claim. So make sure you always read the fine
print, and ask as many questions as possible. It’s your hard earned money, so
it’s your right to know.
Typically, you will get insurance divided
into five major categories: medical, flight insurance, trip cancellation and
interruption, baggage, and evacuation. Having several insurance covers may be
an advantage or disadvantage. If, for example, you have a health cover that
will take care of your health insurance even while on holiday, then you can
reduce your travel insurance travel premium. However, the process of claiming
and collection may be complicated. In such a case, you can opt to get a comprehensive
travel insurance that will cover all the five categories. Better still, you can
get this from a company that will cover and pay your claims without bothering
about your other insurance covers.
Medical insurance varies largely with age.
The older you are, the more expensive the insurance cover. For senior citizens,
it may be better to get a comprehensive cover altogether since medical cover
can be quite pricey. Also, if you have health insurance, find out if they cover
you for international travel. Even if they do, you may still opt for a travel
health insurance. With normal health insurance, you will most likely have to
pay for your bills and claim later on, a problem if you are having a costly
procedure abroad.
Flight insurance is sounds like a good
idea. However, when you consider that only 1% of flights worldwide crash, the
statistical probability is very low. My advice: don’t bother. Baggage insurance
is best bought as part of the comprehensive insurance cover. Though, check
whether your household cover also insures your items while on holiday. Also
ensure that your baggage is covered while on rail. If you have extra valuable
luggage, ensure that whatever insurance you are on comprehensively covers it.
Evacuation is mostly covered only by travel insurance. Ensure that you read the
fine print though, and find out whether it will cover your off-piste ski
activity in the Alps.
Trip cancellation and interruption
insurance is particularly useful if you have to pay large sums upfront for the
trip beforehand. In such cases, you will end up with considerable financial
loss if your trip is interrupted while on holiday or you have to cancel before
you start. However, if you are backpacking without having to make any financial
commitments beforehand, then this shouldn't bother you. Again, read the fine
print to find out what consists of a valid reason for breaking the trip.
Amazing Sights to See On a Tour of the UK
United Kingdom is blessed with an extra
ordinary wealth of sights and its surprising landscapes keep thrilling. With
vibrant cities, lush countryside, stoic castles, and beautiful beaches, it is indeed
an amazing blend of the past and the present.
The Mysterious Ruined Castles of Wiltshire
The history of castles in the UK is amazing,
they are not only historical but a presentation of a mysterious past that
existed: a place where people lived and worshipped, banding together under the
protection of powerful Lords and Kings.
Old Sarum is a monumental Iron Age hill
fort that is spectacularly intriguing and believed to have been occupied by the
Romans and the Saxons. Sarum rose to fame in a different era, when aristocrats controlled
the number of parliamentarians. The amazing views around this place include the
Salisbury Cathedral.
Another place of interest around this area
is the iconic Stonehenge situated only a few meters from here. It is said to
have been around for more than 5000 years. This mysterious monument has been named
a UNESCO world heritage site. People visit the Stonehenge to view the sunrise and
experience the times when the sun aligns systematically with it.
The Castles of Scotland And Wales
The Glamis Castles, which are well depicted
by Shakespeare in his once censored book; “The Tragedy of Macbeth” show the
true picture history and kings that ruled while in this castle.
Though it has a bloody history, it is the
birth place of royalties such as Elizabeth Bowes the late queen mother. A tour around the castle reveals the family
chapel that witnessed the rebellious political act of 1715. The mystery of the
Evil card location and the Duncan’s Hall are places that will rouse you
curiosity. Enjoy the scenic nature trails, a stark contrast to the dark history
of the Glamis castles.
Balmoral Castle in Scotland on the other
hand is a fantasy medieval castle built for Queen Victoria and has since been
passed down from royal generations to generations. It was the queen’s vacation
destination and a complete opposite of the Glamis Castles. It is also indeed a
beauty to behold, and is worth stopping over to enjoy a royal view.
Cathedrals
The enduring image of well built cathedrals
is a memory that lives with any tourist. Take for example the Norwich cathedral,
second only in size to the Salisbury cathedral. It is huge and has stood since
the 14th century, but still continues to awe present day crowds. It
is largely un-spoilt built with flint rubble, mortal and limestone.
The Chester Cathedral is yet another richly
historic cathedral in UK; it offers a spectacular view to anyone visiting. Relive
history and experience the mysterious stories of the monks, kings and
craftsmen. It has grand Norman arches, majestic gothic columns, fascinating
woodcarvings from the 14th century and serene monk’s refectories’
where monks had their afternoon teas. The scrupulously neat newly replanted
Cloister gardens create a relaxing atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a
busy day in the bustling city. Truly Chester is a hidden gem in the heart of
the city. Enjoy its displays of modern art and its pleasant atmosphere.
Organise your dream, tailor made UK tour with Great British Trips
3 of My Favourite Golf Holiday Resorts
Vilamoura in the Algarve
Nestled in Algarve,
Portugual is one of Europe’s most popular holidaying circuits, the Vilamoura.
Covering over 2,000 hectares, the scenic complex consists of beautiful pine
forests, lovely swamp areas, long beach all set in a very environmentally
conscious planned development. One of the features of this area is its lovely
golfing scene.
Within this area are
five beautiful courses, each with its own unique character and flavor. The
Laguna course, designed by Joseph Lee in 1990, features a typical flat course,
with lots of water hazards. Just when you think that you
have got it right, another trick is poised in place. With 18 holes, you have a
lot of challenges to overcome. The more recent addition, the Millennium Course
was aptly built at the turn of the millennium, year 2000. It is here that you
can take on a long 27 hole course, flanked by beautiful coastal pine trees. Alternatively,
you can head over to the Old Course, built in 1969. This course provides
timeless challenge. The first few holes are invitingly easy, before becoming
more complicated as the course progresses to the 18th hole. Both
Vila Sol and Pinhal present curious challenges, but it is the lengthy Victoria
that aims to impress. The longest 18 hole course in Portugal, it promises to
provide one of the most interesting experiences in Europe.
Gloria in Belek
Turkey’s golfing
circuit comes to life at Belek. Within this short area you will find 15 golf
courses, all waiting to be explored. In the Gloria Golf Resort alone, there are
two world class championship 18 hole courses, as well as a smaller 9 hole
course.
The courses at Gloria
were designed by world renowned Michel Gayon. He devilishly set up 67 bunkers
and 4 big lakes, just to add flavor to the course. Make sure your aim is
straight and true, because the beautiful tree line will punish you for your
errant swing. Once you have finished with your round of golf, relax at the
resort’s luxurious pool. Alternatively, head over for a massage before enjoying
a sumptuous round of Turkish delight. For the avid golfer, you can head down
the road and sample the other 10 golf courses around the area.
Aphrodite hills in Paphos
The sunny tourist
country of Cyprus is a land of myth and magic. Fall in love with the land of
the goddess of love in her serene hill resort of Aphrodite Hills. Located
overlooking the Mediterranean, this beautiful golf resort has attracted some of
the biggest golfing names each year.
Indeed, her
championship course set on a stunning 230 hectares is a beauty to behold.
Experience tricky bunkers, confusing ravine areas, as well as fast greens at
the resort area. Each hole opens a new chapter of challenge, as well as
exciting views to reward you for you fortitude.
If you are not playing
golf, head over to the resort’s world acclaimed spa, being crowned the world’s
best spa in 2008. Wander about the Greco-Roman designed spa, lazying around the
spacious Mediterranean resort. Alternatively, you can continue your golfing pursuits
at the nearby Tsada golf course, or head over to the beautiful Secret Valley
hidden between rugged red cliffs.
Visiting Moscow: A City Full of Vitality
This is the heartbeat of Russia, a city
full of creative energy where the past collides with future in a most peculiar
way. Old buildings are being restored to great masterpieces, in a way that the
old and deserted becomes the present and the future. It is a place known to
have many billionaires, where cups of coffee are overwhelmingly expensive, and
the nights are bursting with activities from the underground bars to the
dynamic scenes of exclusive clubs and theaters.
The Kremlin
It is a fortified city within a city and
dates back to 1147, the beginnings of Moscow itself. It is characterized by the
dazzling sites of glistening onion domes, prestigious ancient churches and
numerous palaces that depict the amazing history of the past eras and its
rulers. Discover the hidden remnants of the Soviet era and the magnificent
architecture of that regime.
The most recent building in Kremlin is the
State Kremlin Palace, a magnificent glass and concrete structure with a
prominent auditorium that is now used for ballet dances. The Terem Palace on
the other hand is the oldest of the three Palaces at Kremlin. As earlier noted,
the energetic creativity of Moscow is inevitably represented by the
extraordinary interior decorations rather bellied by the remarkable exteriors.
The Red Square
The Red Square is a must see to all
visitors to Russia, where are lot of Russia’s glorious history was once
written. It is a historical site and has a panoramic view of the Basil
Cathedral. It was used as a parading ground of the Soviet soldiers and their
stone faced leaders. Though these gloomy sights no longer depict the Red
Square, their places are gloriously taken by the vibrant world famous GUM
departmental stores, what remains is the dominant Lenin Mausoleum .
The Basil Cathedral is a breathtaking
profusion of vibrant colors and shapes. Its distinctive patterns of domes,
arches, towers and cupolas each in its own hue all blend together into a
dynamic work of art; it is fascinating to the eye. As you stroll round the
perimeters of the Red Square, behold the beauty of this Cathedral.
The Pushkin Fine Arts Museum
Other great places to visit in Moscow are
the museums; the Pushkin in Europe is only second to the Hermitage and bears
collectors’ masterpieces of the Impressionist arts and Post Impressionists that
won the audience of the Russians. Pushkin’s collections are also featured in
other museums: The Museum of Private Collections and the Gallery of European
and American Art of the 19th and 20th centuries
respectively. Famous works are displayed with Rembrandts stealing the show, but
Botticelli, Tiepolo and Veronese are also well represented.
Finally after enjoying the fascinating
sites in Moscow enjoy the dynamic nightlife of the Muscovites, what the
communists may have termed as “indecent or decadent”. The now happy moneyed
Russians enjoy worldly pleasures like no other place in the world, from the
less conspicuous places to the vibrant clubs. It has been termed as “a city
without limits”: from dusk to dawn, anything is possible.
Book your holiday to Moscow with Exeter International
Culture and History on a Stay in a Berber Lodger: Marrakech, Morocco
Magical Morocco offers so much for
everyone. One of the unique elements of Morocco can be found in its population
of Berbers. Though not wholly native to Morocco, they have developed their own
unique identity and culture. Having survived over several hundreds of years of
invasions, wars, and harsh weather, the Berber culture is rich and ancient. It is
no wonder such a joy and thrill to experience its realities when visiting
Morocco.
In order to fully immerse yourself in
Berber culture, consider staying at a Berber lodge in the Marrakech region. These amazing places are the perfect accommodation near Marrakech to get a true taste of Moroccan life. The facilities allow you to enjoy the beauty of the local culture, indulging in a
culture that is hundreds of years old: ancient and fascinating.
The best of these lodging facilities has to
be the Berber Cultural Center. This is the real, authentic definition of
immersion. Here, you will meet with Mohamed’s warm and entertaining family.
From the minute you step through the doors, you will experience authentic
Berber hospitality from a real Berber family. Lose yourself as you learn to
make authentic mint tea, and participate in normal family life, just like a real
Berber. For those with families, this is a great opportunity to show your
children how different cultures live. There is no Wi-Fi here, so the trappings
of internet devices or world news won’t bind you. Instead, take long treks, go
fetch water on a donkey, participate in making tajines for dinner and bread
for breakfast, and unwind from a long day with an exciting game of cards. Make
lifelong friends and experience the joys of friendly markets and neighbors.
For those keen on a little more luxury, the
Maroc lodge has what you need. A short drive out of Marrakech, the lodge offers
a premier Berber experience. Located on a beautiful 2 hectares, it features
executive luxury pavilions, each with its own unique design. The overall design
of the lodge merges Berber culture with “international objet d’art”. Unlike the
Cultural Center, here you have the latest trappings of modernity: big screen
TVs, heaters, large fireplaces, executive dining facilities, and high speed
internet. Here, the chef conjures Berber culinary delights from freshly
harvested vegetables from nearby villages and from the lodge’s own fruit and
herb gardens. However, they can also whip up other world culinary selections,
depending on your taste. The lodge is also strategically located to allow you
explore the Berber Atlas countryside, venture into Marrakech, or even head for
a ski adventure in the Oukaimden resort. More exciting is the weekly souk, a
short trip from the lodge. Here you can shop for interesting and unusual
souvenirs, enjoying the warmth of the local culture.
There are other beautiful Berber lodges
inside the city. Like the Maroc, they feature up-scale accommodation, complete
with luxury facilities, perfect for the luxury tourist. The beauty of Berber lodges is that they exhibit unique character; each room
is never the same. As you are spellbound by the earthy tone structures, woody
finish, and colorful mats characteristic of Berber homes, you will be in touch
with an enduring culture.
Coastal Delights on a Trip to Oban
Welcome to Oban, a popular seaside town in
Scotland. With its unique geography, picturesque hill setting, and unusual
history, Oban is truly a tourist’s delight. It is no wonder that every year
thousands flock to the town for food, fun, and shopping.
Oban’s popularity as a seaside resort is first
because of its sea food reputation. The “Seafood Capital of Scotland” offers
you a gastronomic journey unrivalled in the UK. Drop by one of its many sea
food restaurants and establishments for an epic experience. Book in advance
where seafood is worshipped, the Seafood Temple. Here, enjoy the “Taste of
Argyll”, a sample platter filled with a little bit of everything. For a stylish
evening out, you can also drop by the Waterfront Fishouse Restaurant. The fresh
seafood served at the establishment only rivals its open views. Alternatively,
head to the Shellfish Bar for affordable seafood before dropping in at the
O’Donnells Irish Pub for a feisty evening.
However, Oban is so much more than the
food. A trip around the town reveals some interesting features and unusual
histories. Check out McCaig’s Tower, also locally called McCaig’s folly. The
structure is actually incomplete, but serves as a beautiful vantage point for
romantic couples and photograph enthusiasts. Nearby lies the famous Oban BayBrewery, famous for its classic malt and scotch. I’m sure if you pop into Oban
Inn you can get more than enough! Enjoy a trip to the nearby Inveraray Jail
house, a unique “living” jailhouse, a must visit for family groups. Also nearby
is the Dunollie Castle, a short brisk walk away from the main town. Get your blood pumping as you head on over to these famous ruins.
You will be rewarded with unique views of the town, harbor, and even some of
the neighboring isles.
Exploring Oban can be done in a variety of
ways. You can decide to take a guided tour, or trek through the area armed with
a map. Cycling is also a popular way of enjoying Oban’s sights and sounds.
Ensure that you go sea diving, as well as explore the nearby Isles if you have
a prolonged stay.
Oban has a lot of activity going on
throughout the year. Its festivals are vibrant and memorable. The annual
Argyllshire Gathering pits some of the world’s best pipers against each other,
battling out for top honors. This is the highlight of the highland games, which
includes the Cowal Highland Gathering, Mull Highland Games, Inveraray Highland
Games, among others. Catch all this action between August and July. Also, catch
the popular Oban Winter Festival, the Festival of the Sea, as well as the
curious annual Highland Cattle Sale, all in Oban.
With all this activity and attractions,
Oban’s hospitality industry has evolved to become very accommodative. It is
much easier now to get quality accommodation in Oban. Pick between
quaint B&Bs, large renovated Manors, beautiful hotels, and a host of
outdoor camping options. For those that fancy, you can rent out a boat and live
like a sailor throughout your stay.
Discovering Jordan’s Hidden Beauty
Jordan is full of treasures and magical
legends that will totally blow your mind. The history of Jordan includes the
famous biblical sites, the brook where Jesus was baptized, and the fortress
where Herod beheaded John the Baptist and the mountain top where Moses first
cast his eyes to the Promised Land. It also incorporates ancient Arabic tales,
as well as Roman and Crusader sights.
Petra
The beauty of Petra is stunning, from her
long history to the fact that this ancient city was curved out of hard rock. It
is in this place that Moses is said to have struck a rock and water gushed out.
This miraculous site is known as Wadi Musa or the Valley of Moses. Over time,
Wadi Musa has attracted the attention of many tourists each with a curiosity to
discover or learn something from this small town.
You can describe Petra as a city in the
wilderness, as it is surrounded by a massive rocky desert and many structures
are curved out of the rock. These cave like structures were used by the
Nabateans who were nomads and sheltered here from winds during their numerous
travels.
The Dead Sea
The lifeless Dead Sea, the world’s lowest
point, is another of Jordan’s most lively attraction. You need not be a swimmer
to swim in the Dead Sea, the salinity of the sea is so high that no matter how
much you weigh, you will remain solemnly on the surface. People flock here to
rejuvenate their skin in the water’s famed mineral richness.
Choose a luxurious resort near the beach
and take a dip, remember the temperatures are high and you need to carry fresh
water to rehydrate your system. You can later head to the fresh water Herodus
Spring to wash up the salty layer on your skin, it is absolutely free.
Bethany is a fascinating archeological site
to visit while still in the Dead Sea area. Tour the River Jordan, famed for its
life giving waters and also the site where Jesus was baptized.
Discover still in this area the amazing
beauty of the collection of pavilions, lodges, caravanserais, forts and ruins
now known as the desert castles. Some like the Al Azraq and Al Hallabat were
richly decorated with marbles, frescoes and paintings and provided a
comfortable haven for the Arabs in the harsh desert. The evenings in these
palaces were filled with wild entertainment, festivities and wine drinking.
Amman
This is a modern Arab city and probably the
greatest cultural centre in the Middle East. It is stripped between the poor
down town in Eastern Amman to the exotic lifestyle of the Western Amman. With
the arrival of a large number of Palestinian and Iraqi refugees, the local
conservative culture has radically changed to embrace other cultures.
See the Citadel, the majestic fortress that
dominates the highest hill in Amman, Jebel Al-Qalaa. Discover the spectacular
sites of the Umayyad Palace, its long winding history, its strong walls and
other buildings that make the Citadel. Visit the National Archeological Museum
that houses a wide array of artifacts, from Dead Sea scrolls to a 6000years
skull. Jordan indeed has a lot for you
to discover.
Book your holiday to Jordan with Corinthian Travel
5 Amazing Gap Year Destinations
Australia
If you are considering
a place to spend your gap year, then Australia should be up there on your list.
The continental island offers so much activity to keep you busy throughout your
year. The country is large, with wilderness tours, city adventures, farm
activities, as well as beach experiences beckoning. What’s more, with so many
backpackers and students travelling to the country, Australia has good
infrastructure to support. There are plenty of hostels, cheap hotels, as well
as cozy B&Bs en route to almost anywhere. You can also get a one-year work
permit easily if you are aged 18-31, and live while working; a great way to cut
costs of living.
China
The Dragon of the East
opened up its borders a while back. While many consider it to be a daunting
place to visit because of language barrier, it actually may play to your
advantage. China’s long history, ancient culture, as well as vast terrain offer
an exciting gap year experience. With booming cities, China offers you the
adventure of a lifetime as you wander the streets of Beijing or Shanghai.
What’s more, you can get a job teaching English at a local school, and
supplement your income. Depending on how you live, it is very possible to live
affordably.
France
For those keen on adventure and excitement,
take a snow gap year in France’s famous ski resort areas. Enjoy all year white
as you learn how to ski from the masters. France offers special gap year ski
programs that allow you to work part time and learn full time “the ways of the
slope”. If you fancy an exciting year with fellow gap mates enjoying off-piste
adventures, rugged mountain views, delicious French cuisine, and a chance to
tour the beautiful French countryside occasionally, then this is for you.
South Africa
Another exciting gap-year destination is
the Rainbow Nation in the south of Africa. It is a country overcoming its
painful past to clinch a blossoming future. Spend a gap year here witnessing
the rapid development that has now characterized this beautiful country. From
the gold city of Johannesburg, the beautiful Cape Verde, to the exciting
wildlife reserves, the country is teeming with activity and adventure. When you
have had your fill of its lovely beaches, head inland for sights that will live
with you throughout your life. Get a taste of the vibrant South African musical
culture, rhythms and harmonies that will play through your head for ages to
come.
India
One of the world’s most famous backpacking
adventures, India is an enigma waiting to be explored. Every year, thousands of
gap year takers head over to the mystical state to enjoy the thrills of this
exotic country. Here, there are literally thousands of places to visit, things
to do, and cuisines to try out. What’s more, life here is very cheap, allowing
you to enjoy life on a budget. If you want to earn a little money, you can look
for an English teaching job, or get a job with a local NGO. Indeed, the country
will offer you insights into a different culture and life; life changing
experience.
Book at gap year with Oyster Worldwide
5 Incredible Water Villas to Live the Luxury Life
It doesn't get much more glamorous than staying in a water villa in the Maldives, Caribbean or Bora Bora. These are the places that are usually reserved for the rich and famous, but every now and then there are deals out there that make it possible for us normal folks to soak up the luxury that comes with staying in a water villa or 'overwater bungalow' as they're also known.
Below are 5 of our favourite water villas from around the world where you can sit and listen to the sea lap beneath you and look out into nothing but the long stretch of blue waters out to the horizon:
BORA BORA MARARA BEACH RESORT
Luxury is second to none in this amazing place in Bora Bora. Once you go, you won't want to leave...
BAROS RESORT
The prefect honeymoon water villas, this is absolute luxury in 5 star style in the Maldives. 24 hour room service so you don't have to leave the room...
VELIGANDU ISLAND RESORT
Another Maldives special, this is a spectacular resort with 64 water villas, many of which feature their very own private hot tub.
CLUB BALI HAI
Club Bali Hai is perfect for those wanting a bit of luxury on a budget. it still has stunning water villas, but at a cheaper price than those in the Maldives. Head to Moorea to enjoy them..
For more luxurious water villas head over to overwaterbungalows.net
Below are 5 of our favourite water villas from around the world where you can sit and listen to the sea lap beneath you and look out into nothing but the long stretch of blue waters out to the horizon:
BORA BORA MARARA BEACH RESORT
Luxury is second to none in this amazing place in Bora Bora. Once you go, you won't want to leave...
PUNTA CARACOL ACQUA LODGE
A beautiful eco lodge near Panama, this is the place to come for rest and relaxation. Large bungalows and powered purely by solar power, they are mighty impressive:
The prefect honeymoon water villas, this is absolute luxury in 5 star style in the Maldives. 24 hour room service so you don't have to leave the room...
Another Maldives special, this is a spectacular resort with 64 water villas, many of which feature their very own private hot tub.
CLUB BALI HAI
Club Bali Hai is perfect for those wanting a bit of luxury on a budget. it still has stunning water villas, but at a cheaper price than those in the Maldives. Head to Moorea to enjoy them..
3 Tips for Your Next Family Holiday
Plan early, plan carefully
When travelling alone or as adults only, it
is easy to roll with the punches. This flexibility is eliminated as soon as you
include children on your flight plan. When travelling with your children,
ensure that you plan well ahead in time, and plan very carefully. Make this a
project if you have to. Find out all the necessities of travelling, asking
questions frequently if you have to. Find out whether there are any health
concerns, immunization requirements, special visa requirements, and so on. If
your child has their own passport, ensure that they also have the visa early.
Also pick out the accommodation wisely.
Find family friendly accommodation options that will be suitable for your
children’s needs. Some hotels and resorts offer kids clubs, free indoor
activities, nannies, and a host of other child friendly amenities. Find out in
advance if where you are planning to stay has any of these. They could come in
handy when you want to have some much needed adult time.
Get travel insurance
The logic behind getting insurance is to
minimize on risk. When travelling with children, the risks always seem to
multiply. Make sure that you get comprehensive insurance that will ensure a
smooth holiday experience. You can get good bargains online, but make sure that
the insurance company is credible. Don’t take insurance with some no-name
company simply because it is cheap. When taking the policy, read the fine print
and ask as many questions as possible.
While most children are covered by their parent’s insurance policy, find out to what
extent. If you have more than one child, find the limit to which your children
are covered. It may make sense to pay for separate travel insurance if, for
example, your health cover limits how much you can spend on health as a family.
Find out this first before you travel.
Get something for everyone
Remember: you are going for a family holiday.
This means that you will have many expectations to satisfy, including your own.
While going for a cheese and wine festival is an exciting prospect for the
grown ups, your children won’t be able to participate. Additionally, while
swimming in a pool in the Caribbean will excite your children, passing up an
opportunity to go snorkeling in the pristine waters might not sit well with
you.
Finding family fun activities is not as
easy as most think. Most of the times parents neglect their own happiness and
play it simple for their children’s sake; this does not need to be the case for
you. One of the easiest ways of getting this done is making sure that your
children have adult supervision while you slip away to some exciting activity. If
necessary, you can go on holiday with the grandparents and have them watch them
while you dash. This way, you can head of snorkeling while your child is
entertained elsewhere in a safe and conducive environment. Alternatively, you
can look for an activity that has something for everyone, like going to watch
tomato fights in Spain or a street festival in India.
Book your family holidays with Baby Friendly Boltholes
3 Beautiful Types of Group Accommodation
Travelling in a group is a popular way to
explore. Today, more than ever, it is easier to link up with like-minded people
for an exciting group tour. Whether your fascination is mountaineering,
photography, cheese and wine, or history, you will almost always find an
interesting group somewhere heading out for an adventure. You can always just
plan with close friends and family for a special getaway. Here are some
fabulous accommodation arrangements suitable for large groups.
Luxury Cottages
These fabulous cottages come in different
shapes, sizes, and feels to them. This depends on which part of the world you
are in. Some are renovated farm houses, others specially built cottage houses,
and others are restored manors. These houses are beautiful, filled with unique
character, and have some exciting facilities. Depending on your budget, you can
enjoy facilities such as saunas, swimming pools, satellite TV, and high speed
internet.
Another interesting feature of luxury
cottages is the self-catering option. The flexibility and cost savings this
introduces is great. If you love to cook, it can be exciting to go shopping in
local markets, sample fresh food, and whip up extraordinary dinners. Alternatively,
you can hire a local chef to treat you to delicious local delights and save you
the hassle of kitchen duties.
Renovated Castle
For a truly royal experience, why not try
renting out a castle as a group. If you have ever fancied a classic retreat
experience, then a renovated castle is the ultimate in group accommodation. This
is especially so if you are in a very large group: about 30 and above guests.
However, you can find castles willing to cater for as few as 16 guests. Of
course the design and amenities will vary depending on the country.
Additionally, these are usually concentrated in European countries with rich royal
histories like France and England. While the prices may seem daunting, when you
break it down to the individual costs, then the prices ultimately end up being much
better.
Castle grounds offer beautiful locations
for social events. So if you are having a company retreat, or looking for the
perfect wedding venue, this would work out fine. Depending on your budget, you
can expect to have stately lunches, big teas, lavish rooms, and butlers on beck
and call. In the evening, you can have your dinners set out overlooking
beautiful night landscapes, before retiring to rooms fit for royalty.
Ski Chalets
Group skiing has never been more
convenient. Take a retreat into the beautiful Alps and put up at a ski chalet.
Ski chalets today have more to offer than ever before, especially for family
accommodation.
If you are travelling with children or
infants, you now have the option of getting free child amenities that can help
cut down on travelling luggage. From baby prams, bibs, bottles, and even
potties, a family friendly chalet will have them all.
For luxury travel, dent your budget a
little and experience unrivaled hospitality up on the mountains. From
helicopter airport transfers, custom off-piste experience, concierge services,
and world-class personal chef, the experience will leave you pampered and
spoiled.
Book your group accommodation at www.house-parties.co.uk
Dubai: Battling For Attention In The Land Of the VIP
Dubai has made its mark in the world, not
only as a centre for lucrative businesses but for unrivalled world class luxury
and extravagant living. In Dubai expect
royal treatment and pampering in the wide array of boutique hotels, 5 star
luxury hotels and resorts that battle for your attention. The hidden truth
beneath the VIP treatment is that you get to spend like a VIP, but all in all
at the end of the day it will be well worth it. So get your credit card loaded
up, and lets start touring.
The Burj Al Arab
This astonishing architectural ingenuity
will automatically blow your mind. It was created to express the culture of
sailing in dhows or a simply an eye catching icon, it is truly creativity of
the highest nature. It resembles a massive billowing sail. If the outside is
that impressive, the best is yet to come. Inside, it offers unparalleled
sophistication, with some of the world’s most expensive interior designs. It is
built on an artificial island offshore Jumeirah Beach hotel. Enjoy a great
evening high above the waves in the Sky View Bar.
The Royal suite is literally decorated with
marble and gold floors, and a great view to the booming city of Dubai. With reception
on each floor, personal butler for each room, uniquely designed heli-pad, along
with Rolce Royce chauffer services, it is little wonder that this is arguably
the world’s best hotel.
Jumeira Beach Hotel
Consistent with Dubai’s VIP trend comes
this extravagant beach hotel. Its striking wave like design makes it one of the
most recognizable icons of Dubai.
The suits are beautifully designed, each
with its own unique character. You will indeed be spoilt for choice as you pick
out from these luxury facilities. There are numerous leisure activities
available for all, from unlimited access to Wild Wadi Water Park, scuba diving
centers to Sinbad Kids Club. That is without mentioning the delicious menu,
attentive staff, and gratifying pampering available.
Madinat Jumeira
The extensive landscape, canal style
water-ways, delightfully furnished rooms with private balconies is the
definition of Madinat Jumeirah. There is a wide array of suites to choose from
apart from the splendid view of the gulf waters and a 2 kilometer private beach
to take in the Arabic sun in style.
Explore the neat gardens, the Al Qasr Hotel
and the Mina Al Salaam, both boutique hotels captured within this breathtaking
complex. Experience true Arabic culture in the Souks within the building; every
new corner will expose a new and exciting view of Dubai.
Dubai Mall
Finally a trip to Dubai is not complete
without an out of this world shopping experience at the mother of all malls:
the Dubai Mall.
This is the place where all rules of
shopping do not apply, the only place in the world that actually hosts a
shopping festival. This is the home of luxurious shopping, exotic entertainment
and numerous restaurants that offer the best of Arabic cuisine. Discover
shopping in style in over 1200 retail outlets and view the panoramic aquarium
which is home to over 3000 species. It is truly a maze, true shoppers paradise.
Visit Dubai with Dubai Holidays
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