There’s an increasingly fertile market for men seeking a stag weekend that is more aspirational than your standard ransacking of an Eastern European city. This trend might suggest that there is a breed of man taking a more aspirational approach to their leisure time, shying away from the tried paths and heading for cities that one might associate more with a romantic city break than a stag do destination. Barcelona is one such city seeing an increase in enquires and bookings for pre-wedding parties from men fond of fine dining, culture and, of course, football. Yep, the Barcelona stag do is a sure-fire winner for the thinking man.

The city is almost divided into two by the pedestrian Ramblas, which is a hive of activity with market stalls, restaurants and bars flanking the tree-lined avenue. On the eastern side is Old Town and to the west are the modern shopping boulevards. Port Veil, the harbour, is also worthy of further inspection, thanks to its upmarket restaurants and picturesque views. The city racks up its Michelin stars in this area with pan-Asian restaurants and modern takes on rustic Catalan dishes served up, meaning there’s much more than tapas and paella to tempt those taste buds if you’re looking to go further than merely lining your stomach or a night on the tiles.

Culture-buffs will find plenty to scratch their chins and muster up appreciate grunts to in Barcelona and that’s even before they find their way into a building. Old Town is a feast for the eyes with its ornate architecture and selection of museums and galleries. The city is known for its intrinsic ties to Gaudi who designed many of the buildings found here, noted for their distinctive spires and rich palate of colours.

There’s an artistic element to the way in which Leo Messi and co. go about their football – fortunately, thanks to the sheer scale of the Nou Camp, Barcelona’s home stadium, there’s a good chance of getting tickets for a match there, particularly for league fixtures. Even if your trip doesn’t coincide with a home fixture at the European Champions’ home, you can still have a tour of the stadium; one of only few UEFA endorsed 5 star stadiums on the continent. You’ll have a chance to sit in the dressing room, walk down the tunnel and sit in Pep Guardiola’s seat at the scene of so many famous victories.

As for night-time activities, Barcelona is without parallel in Europe. Perhaps you’d be best served giving Las Ramblas a swerve as the bars and clubs here are avoided by locals – their high drink prices make them little more than tourist traps. Instead, to get an authentic taste of Barcelona by night, take a step off the tried path to be rewarded with a distinctive and memorable night’s fun. The Gothic quarter has scores of top night spots hidden away, including La Divina, Sugar and Nevermind. Plaza Real is also a firm favourite with travellers to the city and is also worthy of further research. For those that like to get themselves suited and booted for a night out, your first port of call should be El Born, which is central and boasts many upmarket spots with beautiful interiors and superior drinks.

Though it might sound obvious, the best thing to do is to get your research in before you travel – that way you can steer clear of activities, clubs and bars that are little more than rip-offs for foolhardy travellers and build your own Barcelona stag do adventure.

To find out more about a Barcelona stag weekend, visit The Stag Company website or call 01273 225 070.

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In fact recent research by First Choice, conducted with the Centre of Economic and Business Research (CEBR), shows that more than half of holidaymakers overspent on holiday last year, costing consumers £403m in total.

So to help you make the most of your hard-earned cash here is the top 25 holiday moneysaving tips for before you go, when you’re there and when you get back home. Happy saving!

Before you go

1. The early bird

For families who want to book in advance make sure you’re browsing up to 11 months ahead of when you want to go. This is when flights are typically first released by airlines so there will be plenty of cheaper seats available.

2. Time on your side

If you can avoid flying on Fridays or Saturdays as these tend to be the busiest and most expensive times. If you fly on a weekday you can save a lot of money, so make sure you shop around before booking.

3. Sign up for special offers by email or Twitter

Almost every company in the travel industry will have some special offers that they email or tweet out to subscribers. Sign up to a few providers that you know and like and keep checking what they’ve got on offer.

4. Book airport car parking in advance

If you require parking at airports such as Heathrow  then it pays to look online, check the best deals and book in advance. You could save up to 60% on parking charges this way. It also means that you’ll have less to worry about on the day you travel and you won’t be stung by exorbitant parking fees at the airport.

5. Learn to haggle for your hotel

Don’t just accept the first price you’re quoted. Check online for availability and then check again a week or two later. If they still have availability then chances are they’ll want to get rid of those spare rooms and will be more open to you haggling the price. Make sure you have a few options in case they sell out!

6. Check the latest exchange rates

If you’re flexible as to where you travel then it’s definitely worth keeping an eye on the value of the pound. It fluctuates constantly and, with some clever research, you could end up in a country where your money stretches much further.

7. Plan ahead and shop around for travel money

If you leave holiday money until the last minute then you’ll be exchanging into foreign currency at the airport bureau which will always cost more so make sure you shop around. Whether you go to your bank, the post office or a bureau de change be wary of ‘commission free’ offers because the money will be recouped somewhere along the line. Generally in you being offered a worse exchange rate!

8. Check baggage allowances

Make sure you don’t miss hidden baggage charges. You may think you’re getting a great deal by opting for the cheapest flight but once all the extra charges add up it might not be such a great deal after all. If you are going on a golf or ski holiday for example and are taking your own equipment then airline charges will differ. Check these golf and ski baggage allowances as an example of how you could save money.

9. What insurance do you really need?

If you book your holiday by credit card then make sure you check if your card provider will cover you abroad automatically for doing so. You don’t want to spend unnecessary money on insurance if you’re already covered! If you’re not already covered then you might want to look into joint travel insurance if you’re in a couple. It tends to work out cheaper in much the same way as it does for two named drivers on a car insurance policy. If you’re travelling in Europe then you’ll want to get a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) which can be used to cover any necessary medical treatment due to accident or illness within the European Economic Area (EEA).

10. Check your passport

Many people get caught out by not checking their passport well in advance. If it’s expired then you’ll need to pay far more to rush your renewal application through at the last minute. Currently a normal renewal costs £77.50 but the one-day premium service is £129.50 – a £52 price hike that’s easily avoided.

11. Take your own lunch

If you’re flying with a low-cost airline where food isn’t included with the price of your ticket then you’ll have to pay inflated fees for a pretty basic sandwich and a drink onboard. It’s worth remembering that while liquid can’t go through security food can, so why not take your own? You’ll make something far nicer and start your holiday with a great saving.

12. Check your mobile phone use

Call and text charges abroad, both sending and receiving, can be monstrously high abroad. Many phone companies offer bundles that you can purchase before you go away or you could keep your phone purely for emergencies. You are on holiday after all!

13. Play your cards right

Do you know how much your card provider charges for using it abroad? It can be quite a significant amount per transaction so make sure you’re aware of what you’ll be paying for each transaction and try not to make too many withdrawals.

When you’re there

14. Set a budget for each day

None of us want to be penny pinching when we’re on holiday but setting a budget for each day is simple common sense and will ensure that costs don’t escalate out of control. Make it realistic and not only will you avoid overspending but the treats you enjoy will be all the better for it!

15. When in Rome

The big tourist areas in any given town or city are easy to find and so we often flock there in great numbers. However, restaurants and bars in the area raise their prices to capitalise. Why not seek out the places the locals go? They’ll be cheaper and generally better quality plus you’ll experience what your destination is really like.

16. Perfect the art of haggling

In Britain we struggle to haggle as it’s just not in our DNA. However, in some countries it’s rude not to and can make a holiday purchase much more fun. Make sure you do you research on where and when it’s appropriate though as you don’t want to cause offence or pay over the odds.

17. Carry a bottle of drink around with you

Especially if you’re in a hot country it’s important to keep yourself hydrated. Avoid spending more than you need to on drinks from cafes and bars by buying a bottle of water at the start of the day and sipping from it regularly as you see the sites. Investing in a good water bottle carrier will ensure that this doesn’t weigh you down.

18. Look for special discount tickets

Many towns and cities have special deals on public transport where you can buy a discounted book of tickets for the underground in advance rather than one at a time.  If you know you’re going to use public transport a lot this can be really useful.  Also keep an eye in your hotel lobby or ask your tour operator for any discounted tickets for the main attractions.

19. The best laid plans

Not everyone will want to plan out their day in its entirety but if you want to save money it’s easy to save on travel if you know where you want to go in advance. It will mean you don’t have to spend money on buses, cabs or petrol constantly backtracking to your hotel or things you’ve missed along the way.

Back home

20. Ditch the car

Not possible for everyone of course but if you can walk or cycle to work when you get back from holiday rather than drive or take the bus you’ll save money and burn off some of those holiday calories!

21. Embrace the potluck dinner

Hopefully you’ve had a great holiday and your friends will be longing to hear your traveller’s tales. Instead of going out on the town invite them round for a ‘pot luck’ dinner where each person brings a different dish for everyone else to try.

22. What’s down the back of the sofa?

Ok, don’t literally look down the back of your sofa (unless you really want to) but do check your wallet for any unused gift vouchers, or any loyalty cards you have for unused loyalty points that could shave welcome pennies off your shopping bill when you need it most.

23. Cut the coffee

This will be a challenge as you may well feel the urge for caffeine to help you get back into the swing of things but try to avoid popping out for a cappuccino or latte if you can. An average coffee will work out at about £3, if you have 5 of those a week then you’ll spend £15 which is £60 a month! A pretty significant (and relatively easy) saving to make when you’re back home.

24. I’ve lost interest

You’ve paid for your dream holiday on the credit card and you don’t want to think about it when you get back. We’ve all been there. However the sooner you pay it off the less you’ll pay in interest charges so work out how much you can realistically pay back each month as soon as you get back and stick to it.

25. Supply and demand

Every destination has its own unique trinkets or goods that can be bought cheaper than back home. You could exploit this to your advantage by bringing some back with you to sell when you get home via eBay for example or you could use them as unique birthday or Christmas gifts. Of course this depends on the space in your suitcase!

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Here are some money-saving tips for visitors to Florida for your holidays in 2012, whether you’re a first-timer or repeat holidaymaker to the Sunshine State:

For Disney holidays in 2012 UK and Ireland residents can purchase Disney’s Ultimate 7- and 14-day Tickets before they leave the country, so buy your park tickets before you depart and it will make budgeting whilst on holiday a little easier. In addition there are many other park ticket combinations, which offer access to most of the major attractions, you’ll save a bundle by buying them altogether than purchasing single-day park tickets.

Spend your holiday in a villa, town home or condo – holidays to Florida are excellent value particularly if you are travelling in a larger party. Villa resort communities can offer homes with up to 7 bedrooms, which can sleep 14 people comfortably. Purchase all your essential food items and sundries at the local or on-site store, plus, you’ll save money by not dining out in resort hotels or local restaurants each evening.

Steer clear of peak travel periods like summer, Christmas and Easter school holidays. If your dates are flexible then it’s definitely worthwhile booking a great-value spring or autumn Florida bargain in May, June, September or November, fabulous weather still prevails and is balmy but not oppressive, plus the parks contain fewer people – bonus!

Finally, make sure to book with a trusted ATOL-protected tour operator. Your package holiday i.e. accommodation, flights, car hire and attraction tickets will be 100% secure, plus it will give you total peace of mind. Also, independent travel agents that specialise in Florida and the wider USA constantly search and source the best rates and deals in the market, ensuring you receive the best possible price.

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Edinburgh’s best known attraction is also one of its most affordable, the National Museum of Scotland. Plan a few hours to see a comprehensive collection of all things Scottish, including artefacts from Charles Darwin’s voyages. While you are museum-going, stop by the National Galleries of Scotland to see an excellent art collection, and visit the Royal Botanic Garden to see a garden with roots going all of the way back to the 18th century, if the weather allows.

Plan to get out and walk a bit. The Royal Mile winds up towards Edinburgh Castle. Along the way, you will pass many attractions as well as ample opportunities to try on a kilt or buy yourself something else with an authentic Scottish tartan. Try to be at the castle on Saturday at 13.00 to hear the field gun firing. The view from atop the castle is an excellent way to see the lie of the land in and around Edinburgh. If you still have energy, hike to the top of Arthur’s Seat which is not only Edinburgh’s tallest hill, but also an extinct volcano. Many companies also run night-time walking tours that cover both Edinburgh’s paranormal and just-plain-normal history.

All of the walking that you will do will undoubtedly leave you hungry. Don’t miss the opportunity to taste Scotland’s national dish, Haggis, which is made of a tasty mixture of lamb, beef, potatoes and vegetables. Although Edinburgh’s many pubs are an inviting place to rest and have a pint of bitters, make sure you sample Scotland’s national beverage. The Scotch Whisky Experience on Castlehill in Old Town combines an excellent scotch shop with an exhibit that includes a barrel ride and introduces you to the history and process of the making of Scotch whiskey. Your admission also includes a dram, so that you can taste it for yourself.

Although Edinburgh has enough indoor attractions to make it a great place to spend a weekend all year-round, summertime is especially pleasant. If you time your summer visit right, you can spend your weekend during the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. Although it started out as an alternative to the broader Edinburgh festival season, the years have legitimised it… to a point. Held in 2012 from 3 August through 27 August, it will offer a range of different types of entertainment, all of which will be at least a little bit different. To take advantage of the Fringe, book early since most Edinburgh hotels fill up and tickets sell out.

Article Courtesy of Barcelo Hotels

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Almost all first time travellers dreadfully over pack for a hundred things their heavy travel guide tells them will go wrong. Most of what you will need you’ll be able to find on the road, plus you’ll be helping the local economy as well as your baggage weight if you pick up cough medicine when you need it, not if you need it.

From a well-travelled traveller who has learnt about packing the hard way, here are 5 packing essentials you shouldn’t leave home without.

eBook reader

The wonders of technology have advanced so much that we can carry 100+ books in one tiny, practically weightless piece of machinery. Don’t be fooled by the shiny, expensive versions that are sprawled across our television screens, there are many cheaper options that are slightly more travel friendly.

Use an eBook reader for not only reading material whilst killing time on the back of a truck trundling across Asia’s pot-holed roads, but for city guides and phrase books. Carry the world in your pocket at less than 300g.

Silk sleeping bag liner

A silk sleeping bag liner will keep you cool in the heat and warm in the cold, as well as protect you from the stains of the age-old mattress that probably hasn’t been changed since Emma and Richard made the world known to their night of passion on the bed post in 1987.

If a silk liner is a little out of your price range, an old bed sheet will protect you from the varying levels of hostel filth the world over, but will offer little comfort on nights of extreme humidity.

Memory Cards

Photos, photos, photos. You won’t take enough of them even if you take 50,000 and losing them will be sure to ruin a day or two of good travel. Take as many memory cards as you can so that you always have enough storage space.

If you’re one of these who insists on taking their beloved Toshiba laptop with them to the other side of the world, back the photos up on here too, just in case a memory card goes missing somewhere along the way.

Keep your pants with your passport

There’s nothing worse than landing at the airport, losing your luggage, and having to leave the problem in the not-so-capable hands of someone in New York while you fly to L.A. You’ll either never see your luggage again or it’ll end up back in Cornwall. It probably won’t happen to you, but it might, and it did happen to the traveller writing this short guide.

Maybe a full change of clothes in your hand luggage is not necessary, but some clean underwear and a t-shirt will be your friend in the event that you find yourself in a dorm room with a bunch of strangers. If you don’t pack prepared for the worst, you may soon become very friendly with the bunk below if you’re not willing to sleep in the same clothes again. Then again, if public nudity doesn’t bother you…

Flip flops

It cannot be stressed enough how grateful you’ll be for packing your old pair of flops when slipping and sliding across grim hostel bathroom floors. You’ll be spared from trying to scrape slimy drain-hair from between your toes as well as keeping your feet cool in the Australian heat.

Mastering the art of the flip-flop-hurl is something every traveller must and will perfect after three weeks of sharing dorms with nightmare snorers (there’s always one). Give your flop enough wellie to make the noise-polluter roll over, not enough to wake them and enough to bounce your footwear back to your bed vicinity. If you do wake them, however, roll over and pretend to snore yourself.

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Skiing on Mount Etna

With its beautiful coastline, hot summers and fascinating landscape, you may never consider the balmy Mediterranean island of Sicily as a destination for a ski trip. However, thanks to snow-capped Mount Etna’s 3,323 metres, Sicily holidays can provide skiers and snowboarders with stunning snowy slopes between November and March each year.

Anyone who has paid a visit to this stunning Italian region will know that Sicily offers an ideal environment for a cultured, relaxing and fun summer holiday destination. The beautiful beaches with crystal clear seas are perfectly complimented by the warm weather and exciting tourist towns and villages.

The slopes of Mount Etna

Mount Etna is the largest and highest volcano in Europe, and one of the most active volcanoes in the world, in a state of almost continuous eruption. Thousands of people live on its slopes and take advantage of its hiking and skiing opportunities.

Etna offers two popular ski centres and five pistes equipped with hi tech ski lifts and all the necessary facilities, such as equipment hire and schools. Each slope is in a different district – the northern one is pretty Piano Provenzana, which ascends from 1800-2300 metres and ends in Linguaglossa. The southern one, Rifugion Sapienza, ascends from 1900-2600 metres and leads down to Nicolosi.

Five reasons to ski in Sicily

1.       Something for all levels

The top slopes of the volcano are treeless, making them ideal for off-piste snowboarding and advanced skiing, while the lava bumps and high altitude winds provide fantastic conditions for kite skiing/snowboarding.

Lower down, the lava bumps spread out to form gently undulating slopes for those who are less confident, building their skills or are simply looking for a less strenuous ski or snowboarding experience.

2.       Space on the slopes

As Sicily is a lesser-known ski area its slopes are generally quieter than most of Europe’s more popular ski resorts. There will be more space on the slopes and in the restaurants and bars too!

3.       Guaranteed snow

The altitude of the pistes generally guarantees snow, particularly between December and April, so you’re unlikely to be let down by poor snowfall.

4.       Non-skiers

If not everyone in your group loves to ski, the island of Sicily has plenty to offer visitors looking to explore. For example, the delightful town of Taormina is conveniently located just a short drive from Linguaglossa and offers visitors a wide range of fantastic eating and entertainment options. Situated on the coast, it also means that visitors can enjoy exploring some of the fantastic ruins, architecture and beaches of the area and perhaps even enjoy sailing while you’re there.

5.       Unique opportunity

Taking the opportunity to ski down the lava trails of a live volcano is an exciting prospect for any thrill-seeker. What better way to ski than with the clear blue of the Ionian Sea stretching into the distance below and a dramatic plume of steam and smoke spilling out of the summit of Mount Etna above?

Remember that Mount Etna is an active volcano so seek advice on safety before you go. Check www.etnasci.it for weather and snow reports.

Where to stay

The best spot to stay for proximity to both the slopes and the coastline is nearby Taormina. Casa alla Scala is a private sea-front holiday apartment, which sleeps six and is within walking distance of shops and restaurants, perfect for relaxing after a hard day on the slopes.

For larger groups, Crossing Together is a sea-front villa that sleeps up to 15 people and houses a private swimming pool and includes daily maid services.

Article courtesy of thinksicily.com

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When travelling to Portugal, every tourist will be attracted by the diversity of the landscape and its villages. With numerous hotels and Portugal villas to stay in whilst here, tourists are ensured the best possible experiences on a holiday in this region.

The island of Madeira contains a number of attractions and visitors are often impressed with the excellent views which can be seen from the mountainous region and extensive coastlines. Plenty of tourists visit Portugal for a relaxing holiday and to enjoy the sea and sun and the Algarve is very popular for this. With crystal sandy beaches and clear water, the region is surrounded by a dramatic mountain landscape that makes it a stunning place to stay – especially when in a villa.

Villas

The reason why villas are such a popular form of accommodation for holidays in Portugal is because they offer a more personalised and unique way to experience the area. The fact that the accommodation is self-catered means that tourists are able to immerse themselves in the local culture of the area, experiencing the full range of food that is on offer.

Alongside this, the villas are often situated in more private locations whilst still being close to the main tourist areas. This means that holidaymakers get the privacy which they desire whilst still being within easy access of key amenities and features. This allows tourists to have the best possible holiday experience, almost feeling as if they are at home.

Holiday tips

Anyone considering a holiday in Spain or Portugal should make sure they are fully prepared before they leave. With so much to attract and entertain tourists in this region planning your trip in advance is the easiest way to avoid disappointment:

•Length of trip: this is one of the most important things that you will have to consider before you leave and many people choose to spend longer than a week in these regions in order to experience as much as possible. Of course, you will need to consider your budget in accordance with this and should make sure that your intended trip is economically viable.

•Food and drink: this is perhaps one of the biggest attractions in Portugal and therefore should be a main consideration. Taking advantage of the varied cuisine and fine wine in the area is essential and looking through guide books and online resources for tips on where to eat is essential.

•Time of year: Portugal is lucky enough to have a fairly consistent climate, with warm weather generally being experienced all year round. The summer season (June – August) will be much warmer though and therefore you should make sure you travel at a time that will be both convenient and comfortable for you.

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You will find these resorts usually at the province of Gangwon-do. This is the place in Korea that gets the most massive amount of snowfall. And despite of it being not in the city, you will be surprised on the number of people coming here from all across the globe! It may not be the city but I myself would choose it as I am really up for some white and cool atmosphere. And today is your lucky day because I’m here to share with you some of the best ski mountains in this country where you could enjoy snowboarding on its amazing white slopes.

1. Jisan Forest Resort

This is probably one of the most convenient place to go skiing in South Korea because not only is this just 40 minutes away the city of Seoul, but you can always come here even if they are already booked! Both skiers and snowboarders will love this resort as they have 7 main ski slopes as well as 3 sub-slopes that you could all enjoy. No need to wait for a long line because they have 5 fast lifts and they also have an escalator as part of their facilities for tots and first timers.

2.  Star Hill Resort

Another resort that is near Seoul is this one and the advantage of skiing and snowboarding here is that it’s so near the city that you won’t even need to pay extra to stay overnight. It’s just 32 km away from the City Hall of Seoul! Now that’s even more convenient. About the slopes on this resort, you will see private lifts on each of its slopes so again you won’t have troubles waiting in line. There are actually more people coming here since it’s just really near the metro.

3. Bears Town Resort

This resort is also near Seoul about almost an hour away from it and it’s highly recommended for the professional and advance skiers. Although first timers are still welcome, as they have designated 3 slopes exclusively for them but most of the slopes that are here are for the experts. Lots of families come here since it has become famous for its 400-meter length sledding hill. Find this resort at Pochean, Gyeonggi-do to be exact. The view on this resort is also amazing since you’ll get to see the Sanjeong Lake and the Garden of the Morning Calm.

4. Konjiam Resort

You will surely enjoy skiing and snowboarding if the space is more massive than the usual and if you’re looking for a space like that, then there’s no other place but to visit the Konjiam Resort. It is so far the largest one in the area. It is so huge that they’d have to put a limit on the amount of their daily skiers! Make sure that you make it to the first 7,000 people for that day to enjoy this resort. You are sure to enjoy their 11 slopes that are divided for beginners, intermediate, advance and of course the pros! And I advice to experience their spa as well for a complete relaxation after all the skiing that you’ll be doing!

5. Yangji Pine Resort

Now the last but certainly not the least is the Yangji Pine resort, which is located at Yongin is also a must to visit. They also have a sledding hill as well as 10 slopes according to your capacity to ski. What I love about this resort is that they even offer some ski and snowboarding lessons! You don’t need to be scared if this is going to be your first time because the experts around can definitely guide you.

Written by www.globaltravelguide.co.uk

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The majority of the nightlife in Kefalonia is in the capital city of Argostoli but the major resorts along the beach towns have their own bars and nightlife, as well. In the capital city of Argostoli is a small restaurant on harbor called Ampelaki. Ampelaki offers ocean views and traditional Greek food with an extensive wine list. While you enjoy your dinner and wine, you can watch the sun set over the water and enjoy the quiet ambiance that is part of this romantic dinner during your Kefalonia holiday. If you aren’t ready to head back to your Kefalonia villas after dinner, walk into the Argostoli square to one of the many quaint bars for another drink and a lot more enjoyment.

Right on the beach in Argostoli is a quaint little bar by the name of Stavento. This local bar is open during the day so that tourists and locals can enjoy a drink and the spectacular view of the ocean. During the evening, once the sun has set, the ambiance is apparent, the staff is friendly and accommodating and the view is still spectacular. The drinks are good, too.

From the bar you can head to the square where you can go to any one of the many nightclubs and discos that line the streets. If you prefer, you can indulge yourselves in a bottle of wine while seated outside at one of the many cafes and watch the lively entertainment that happens each night in the square. From children playing to outdoor concerts, the square always has some form of entertainment going on for tourist and locals to enjoy.

If you are heading back to your villa after dinner and decide to stop for a drink and entertainment, the Zanza bar in Poros features live music, entertainment and a full menu of cocktails, beers and wines. In Scala, the bar Zebra features live musicians and bands on a regular basis. You can dance or just sit back and listen to the music.

A romantic, fun evening out in Kefalonia is a great way to enjoy your holiday. A nice dinner with a breathtaking view to a lively bar for drinks and entertainment; it’s a perfect night.

Article Courtesy of Sunvil

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The British Museum

The British museum is a treasure of historical artefacts and hidden gems.  It is also great for families looking at learning about their country’s heritage. From the Battle of Hastings to World War 2 artefacts, you will be spoilt for choice and go away feeling that you have learned a little bit more about the country you live in.

Chelsea

Take a walk down the cobbled Victorian streets of Chelsea and walk past a strip of quant coffee shops and luxurious boutiques. The Kings Road is famous for being one of the most visited and admired parts of London. The area is popular with many celebrities and footballers and caters for every taste.

Camden Market

Camden market is a hidden favourite for many Londoners. From the mulled wine sold in the quant market to the sweet smell of crepes cooked under your noses as you scour the clothes stalls. There is literally everything for everyone. Whether you are looking for some unique jewellery, vintage Ted Baker suit, or foam cushions  you are sure to find it in London’s most treasured market place. If you are in the mood to eat, then you will be pleased to know that there are huge food areas in the heart of the market, where individual stalls sell a selection of culinary classics from every part of the planet. If you are thinking of going, try and get there on the weekend as most of the stalls will be closed during the week.

London Eye

Have you ever thought about what it would be like to be able to see the whole of the capital from a bird’s eye view? Well, before you decide to learn to fly a helicopter, save your money and head down to The London Eye. Near to the Thames, you can pay around £17 and for half an hour step inside the glass Eye, which is like a large revolving window and look out across the city as far as the eye can see. From the big Gherkin building to the famous Post Office tower, you will be amazed by the view.

Madame Tussauds

Ever wondered what it would be like to walk down the red carpet with David Beckham or stand next to Brad Pitt? Thanks to Madame Tussauds, they bring the celebrity world to life. Situated near Leicester Square, you can take a walk down China Town and sample some exotic Asian delicacies before heading towards the famous wax work museum and having your picture taken with life-like celebrities.

London is a great place to visit but many of it remains hidden unless you research the best places to visit and discover some of the capitals hidden gems. Discover a hidden city today.

Article by Hillary who works for CutFoam

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For those of you who spend hours talking about how one day you’ll just pack up and go, here are our best tips for making the most of the ultimate road trip.

1. Preparation

Packing for a road trip is an absolute nightmare, flip-flops for the beach and coast, walking boots for mountains and ruins, salopettes in case you find yourself in the Alps unexpectedly in February. All this as well as deodorant, a sleeping bag and good European breakdown cover can add up to one preparation disaster. We recommend taking as little as possible and picking up clothes and any essentials along the way.

2. Companions

Choosing your perfect travel partner is a skill in itself. A long process of elimination is in order and maybe even a backup travel buddy just in case you decide to throw a man overboard. You know your best friend better than anyone, and even though you spend hours talking of that trip you’ll eventually take to the Adriatic coast, you know that their bad eating habits and high maintenance ways will start to affect your mental health after 8 days of sleeping in the back seat and bad navigation. Choose wisely, and don’t be scared of offending anyone if they ask to come – this is your trip remember.

3. The ride

You may have been saying for years that when your car is finally on its last legs you’ll drive it as far across Europe as you can until it stops, but will it really be worth it? You may get as far as Mongolia and be rightly proud of yourself, or you may just make it to Calais and have to hitch a ride home again. If you decide to invest in an old ambulance or cheapie from eBay, be aware that many need running repairs before they’re allowed out of the country.

4. Planning

Well, plan to not plan. The best road trips take you places you never knew existed and that you can’t find on a map. You’ll end up meeting the weirdest locals, the most eccentric fellow travellers and take part in festivals and traditions you won’t read about in the guide books. Take a map and drive. Sod the GPS, the road will take you where you need to go. It’ll also save the inevitable arguments about whether Gaudi’s famous architecture in Barcelona or visiting Krakow and Auschwitz are more culturally enriching.

5. Do it!

We all spend days, weeks and months talking about the things we’ll do and the places we’ll go. The finest form of procrastination is talking about how in 2 years time you’re going to quite your job and trek through the Himalayas, or take a career break to South America. Have the courage to actually go and do it, take a sabbatical, move your stuff back to your mum’s and hit the road.

Article Courtesy of  Green Flag

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With this in mind, it is no surprise that more and more families are choosing to go on holiday over the festive period to relax and experience special seasonal moments together. If you and your family are thinking of taking a break in the British Isles this Christmas, it is important to remember that holiday prices tend to escalate rapidly at this time. However, there are still a number of fantastic deals that can be found with holiday providers such as Teletext Holidays

Given our troubled economy, financial considerations are now at the top of the list of priorities for a number of families, forcing some to tighten their belts and perhaps opt for a staycation over a holiday abroad. Recently, the TripAdvisor 2012 Travel Trends Survey revealed that the current state of the economy was a “significant concern” for Brits but travel budgets for those living in the UK remain healthy.

However, the recession has encouraged a hotbed of competition between holiday providers, and so it is potentially easier to bag a fantastic deal for you and your family, leaving you with a larger travel budget to get the most out of your holiday and focus on making your Christmas a memorable one. What’s more, by taking a staycation at Christmas, families can save money to contribute to future trips. Recent figures from VisitEngland revealed that seven in ten English people plan to embrace the sights and attractions on their own doorstep at least once by the end of the year.

It wouldn’t be accurate to judge a Christmas vacation in the UK as a step down from a trip overseas. With the right holiday – in the popular destinations of Devon, Yorkshire or Northumbria, for example – you can appreciate all the wonders that Blighty has to offer, from its breathtaking coastline to its awe-inspiring countryside. What could be better than relaxing with your family and opening your presents with an open fire burning and a spectacular view of the snow-blanketed Northumbrian countryside outside your window?

Article Courtesy of Teletext Holidays

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Theatre Breaks in London are combined hotel and theatre packages, and one of their key advantages is the money you will save from booking a complete package, instead of separate bookings. Some booking sites will have price guarantees, so you can be assured of the best price. The question is, what do you get for your money? Typically you’ll have a choice from many of the top West End plays, musical theatre, and comedy events, and a bed and breakfast hotel stay, often in a centrally located hotel. Online booking sites will enable you to search for shows and your chosen dates, view seating plans, and find out more about the shows, when they are booking until, and current cast details (if available). In terms of accommodation, you could choose from 3, 4, or 5 star London Hotels. As you progress you may be able to view all the hotels on offer on a map, and have the choice of ‘recommended hotels’, ‘the cheapest hotels’, or ‘hotels closest to the venue’.

Your tailored theatre break could feature a show and a hassle free overnight stay, or you could extend your trip to include shopping, or exploring some of London’s many and varied tourist attractions. Some accommodation packages will offer bed and breakfast, though there may be the option to add in dinner, or attraction tickets to your booking, depending on the agent you use.

You can book theatre breaks in London online at sites like Lastminute.com and Visit London.com. You can also buy theatre breaks from Virgin Experience Days, or check your local travel agent for a London short break or theatre break brochure. It might not be long before you’re taking the family to see The Lion King, Matilda The Musical, or Shrek The Musical, or going with friends to see Les Miserables or Phantom of the Opera. There are also plays and comedy from the likes of Mousetrap, War Horse, 39 Steps, and Driving Miss Daisy, and you could also book a theatre break with Big Night Out Comedy Clubs.

A show would not be complete without a cast, and in the past the likes of Judi Dench, Derek Jacobi, Michael Ball, Michael Crawford, and Nigel Harman, have all graced a West End stage. You could see any of them, or newcomers like Summer Strallen, Lee Mead, or Rachel Tucker.

Competitive prices, a great choice of shows, and hotels close to the West End, makes a London Theatre Break a tempting prospect.

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1. North York Moors National Park

Known for being one of the largest green areas in the United Kingdom, North Yorkshire Moors is the perfect place to let your dog wallow about. He or she will fit in with resident wildlife as you explore the seemingly never-ending moors that appear to roll into each other. Reserve one of the Yorkshire cottages in the area so that you can prolong your stay.

Doggy tip: Your dog will have plenty of space to wander here, however, keep him close by when groups of passing animals approach.

2. Helmsley Walled Garden

Also located in Yorkshire, these historic garden grounds will be a treat for the both of you. Here you can hang out under the shade of fruit trees or let your four-legged pal splash around in the dipping pond.

Doggy tip: Bring materials to dispose of waste so that you can clean up after your furry friend.

3. Brahmam Park

This meeting place in West Yorkshire is delightful both in its ample yard space and its one-of-a-kind design. Cantered around a summer home built at the turn of the 18th century house, the grounds are a sprawling respite that includes a pond, a boardwalk and a temple.

Doggy tip: Look for signs advising when your pet pal has to be on a lead.

4. Burton Agnes Hall

Both the sights and smells of the walled gardens in this locale will make you want to stay forever. Head to East Yorkshire for a decidedly different pace at Burton Agnes Hall. This popular family spot is a great place to walk your cuddly companion and the mile-long woodland walk will give it a great chance to stretch its legs.

Doggy tip: Burton Agnes Hall can be quite busy during the day, have your dog on a lead at all times.

5. Pugneys Country Park

This South Yorkshire park is designed for maximum enjoyment for both you and your dog. While humans have a choice between water sports on one of the two lakes or trail jogging, your dog can have a little fun of its own in the dog wash area.

Doggy tip: Take advantage of the onsite pooper scoopers to make a dirty job a little cleaner.

Joe Louis writes on behalf of Sykes Cottages.

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UK – The UK is up there for me because of the opportunity to take to the hills all year round, our summer is never too hot and the winter isn’t the harshest. There are also a large number of purpose built riding spots that provide all levels of tracks and encourage new comers to the sport. These venues not only support mountain biking but also have facilities for BMX riders to test their skills, BMX shop has the top of the range models at great value.

France – Arguably the best place to go mountain biking in Europe! Like Andorra, a thriving Ski tourism industry is the basis for thriving mountain bike tourism. The whole country attracts riders due to numerous unspoilt resorts with quiet trails through spectacular scenery. If you’re tempted by France and its summer biking in famous mountain resorts it could be best to buy bikes online and take advantage of great offers on the best bikes available.

Austria – Trail riding in the Alps is at its finest in beautiful Austria, it attracts bikers due to its bike parks with a variety of challenges, decent singletrack and plenty of downhill trails out in the forests. The added temptation of relatively cheap prices, the growing regularity of outdoor concerts and plenty of nightclubs makes it the overall package for a nice holiday with some exceptional biking.

Be covered by the experts – Virgin Money holiday insurance

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Offering their customers a wide selection of choice, Ferry Europe is one of the leading providers of this form of transport. Booking with companies such as this will provide a number of benefits to customers, but what are they?

1. Vast Selection

These services will offer customers the chance to choose their holiday transport from a range of different ferry operators and locations. This means that customers are able to pick the best route for them whilst using a company which offers the best price or service.

Companies such as Ferry Europe will be able to offer customers the chance to make their booking quickly and easily whilst having the ability to compare a number of different options. Getting a ferry to Ireland by Ferry Europe, for example, will give customers the options of departing from a number of locations in both England and Wales, including Portsmouth and Swansea.

2. Improved Convenience

The vast selection of options which are readily available to customers also means that companies such as Ferry Europe over their customers increased convenience. This is because bookings can be made quickly and easily, disrupting the daily lives of those involved as little as possible.

3. Increased Flexibility

These services will also offer customers increased flexibility. This is possible because they will be able to select the number of passengers intending to travel along with the date of departure and return (if applicable). Customers will then be able to select the ferry operator whom they will travel them, providing flexibility on yet another point.

4. Easy Accessibility

The fact that the service is available online also makes it incredibly accessible. Utilising this platform for their service means that customers are able to access the site and make their booking at any time of the day; this means that it can fit in with their daily lives more efficiently, causing as little disruption or disturbance as possible.

The increased accessibility means that customers are able to take advantage of the services on offer from these companies with ease. This makes the service more successful and also helps to ensure that customers receive the best level of care possible.

5. Additional Services

Of course, one of the benefits of using a company like Ferry Europe is that there will be a number of additional services which are available to their customers. These services can help to make your trip even more enjoyable and can often be vital requirements.

One such example of this is European breakdown cover. This product is designed to help offer protection to individuals when travelling in an area outside of the UK mainland but within Europe. This will typically cover recreational and business use but will normally place a limit on the length of the trip – usually 31 days maximum.

When it comes to selecting this sort of product, customers will want to compare services in order to make sure they get the best possible price. Obtaining a European breakdown cover comparison is therefore crucial and is yet another service offered by these companies.

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Caravan holidaying is all about optimising your enjoyment while minimising the costs.  There should be no exception when purchasing your static home itself and this article has been authored to point you in the right direction of finding the very best deal for you and your family.

Buying directly from a holiday park is the best way to get value for your money in terms of the accompanying park facilities.  Family holidaying at these parks can be great fun as there are specific play areas for children, swimming pools, entertainment and lots more to provide a temporary sanctuary for the adults whilst on holiday.  Still, there a number of steps to selecting a gem from the wealth of static homes for sale across the UK:

Brand New vs. Pre-loved

There is nothing like a brand new, untouched caravan home.  Unfortunately these can sometimes come at a high price, especially now as more and more homes come fitted with elaborate extras (e.g. built in plasma TV).  However, there are very reasonable finance options available from the major holiday parks and taking the time to visit these could result in you acquiring a luxurious static home for a suitable price.

Second-hand caravans can be much cheaper alternatives and some ‘nearly new’ options offer minimum sacrifice in quality and provide excellent value for money. Be sure to inspect pre-owned caravans thoroughly to ensure everything is in good working order.

Your holiday home should be completely stress free, so many would suggest buying a brand new static home if possible to ensure piece of mind.

Free Roam vs. Secure Home

The location can be the making of your caravanning holiday.  Select from the best holiday home parks and ensure the facilities match your needs.  Equally, question if you are able to relocate your caravan to another site.

There are benefits to being able to move your caravan from one site to another, although situating your caravan in one quality spot you can open the gateway to lucrative subletting options.  Instead of leaving your beloved holiday home dormant whilst you’re not there, rent it out to fellow caravan holiday lovers who will maintain your caravan and keep it fresh until the summer (or whenever you prefer to holiday).  The profits from this could also dramatically elasticise your budget.

Budget

Explore the finance options available, browse the online catalogues of nearly new caravans and weigh up the value for money of caravans for sale from the different holiday parks.  Be honest with your budgeting and remember the accessible renting opportunities, which can actually be very profitable as holidaying in the UK continues to grow in popularity.

Small Print

Finally, the serious stuff – licensing agreements.  The holiday park owner will require you to sign an agreement with them which stipulates your rights and the terms of the contract.  Don’t be afraid to ask questions at this juncture but make sure you read everything on that paper.

The major holiday home parks are extremely trustworthy and can be identified by their credentials – check to see if they are BHHPA certified (80% of UK parks have this qualification).

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Fans of the arts can spend an evening visiting the West Yorkshire Playhouse, or maybe the Grand Theatre and Opera House, two hives of culture and entertainment with established national and international reputations. Upcoming shows include Annie and We Will Rock You, among others.

Leeds Market

You can’t miss the chance to splash a little cash, so you can either head over to one of the many high street chains on Headrow or Briggate, or you can take the opportunity while in such a diverse city to check out the independent retailers that have set up shop here, in the Corn Exchange or the richly historical Leeds Kirkgate Market.

Leeds is also home to the Victoria Quarter, Merrion Centre, The Light and St. John’s Centre, so you aren’t short of shopping destinations to choose from!

Kirkstall Abbey

If museums are more your thing, then Leeds has NINE of them for you to discover.  From Abbey House to Kirkstall Abbey, Armley Mills to Leeds Art Gallery. You will find yourself immersed in a fascinating world of history and art that few cities save Leeds can boast of.

Roundhay Park and Tropical World is a fantastic day out for all the family. Discover exciting new worlds full of exotic plantlife, lakeside views and even waterfalls, right in the heart of Leeds.

With special events and themed weekends throughout the year, Harewood House is an award-winning treasure house of England, with contemporary art exhibitions and beautiful gardens.

Leeds’ nightlife is fantastically diverse. There are venues for live music aplenty, such as the O2 arena, Nation of Shopkeepers & Brudenell Social Club, to name but a few. Tiger Tiger, Mint, Oceana, HiFi, Chilli White & The Warehouse are just some of the nightclubs that make up this thriving clubbing scene.

If alternative nightlife is more your thing, head on over to the Cockpit for three rooms of metal, ska, punk, rock and emo. Or the FabCafé, a bar dedicated to cult TV and movie memorabilia. The quiz night is a definite must!

Whatever you’re looking for, Leeds has it, so why don’t you head on over to West Yorkshire to discover everything this vibrant metropolis has to offer.

For more information and to find out what’s on in Leeds visit www.LeedsUncut.co.uk.

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As this years winter season approaches, a video has been released online to highlight both the beauty and diversity of this region and to show exactly what the ‘other side of Italy’ has to offer winter sports enthusiasts. You see holidaymakers embracing everything that this amazing region has to offer, and the camera work perfectly captures the breathtaking landscape.

You will no doubt have heard of some of the main resorts in the South Tyrol but, like many others, won’t actually realised what region they were actually in. Top resorts such as Val Gardena and San Martino will be instantly recognised by skiing fans, and others like Obereggen and Glitschberg offer winter sports enthusiasts all manner of activities. It is amazing how much is packed into this relatively small area, and its little wonder it is growing so quickly in popularity.

In this region you will find an awful lot more that just skiing and snowboarding, there is cycling, hiking, climbing, horse riding, ice skating on frozen lakes, the list is endless. Due to the location of the South Tyrol, you are also guaranteed outstanding gastronomy during your stay in this small yet perfectly formed region of Northern Italy. This winter wonderland is just waiting to welcome this years visitors, the pistes are ready to be conquered, as are the many bars and restaurants.

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