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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Since July 1, 2009 there is a new toll system inSlovenia. There is a short vignette (seven days) for 15 Euros, one month’s vignette for 30 Euros, and an annual vignette for 95 Euros. Motorcyclists pay 7.50 Euros for seven days, 25 Euros for a half year, or 47.50 Euros for a whole year.

On July 1, 2008 Slovenia raised a highway toll. It is exclusively in the form of an annual or semi-sticker, but is also available as a daily or short vignette (for example, for the purpose of transit to and from Croatia). The half-yearly vignette for cars up to 3.5 tons costs 35 Euros, and the annual toll sticker is 55 Euros. Motorcycles paid 17.50 Euros or 27.50 Euros (as of June 26, 2008).  According to the ADAC this vignette system was questionable in terms of Article 12 EC Treaty. The ADAC also believes that the toll system is too expensive.

The two longest highways inSloveniaare the A1 and the A2.  The A1 runs fromMaribortoLjubljanaand Koper, and continues on to the A2 and, through the efforts ofAustria, to the Ljubljana Croatian border and continues on toZagreb. These two highways will be completed in 2009 and connected to the centers of the country.

Aviation
The largest international airport is called Letalisce Jozeta Pucnika Ljubljana Brnik, and is near the capital of Ljubljana. There are two smaller airports, Maribor and Portoroz.

Seaport
The port of Koper (Capodistria in Italian) overseas trade links with the rest of the world, and makes Slovenia a transit country for goods to Central Europe.

Railway

The Slovenian Railroad, Slovenske zeleznice, operates a network that is 1229 km long; 504 km are electrified at 3000 volts DC, including the important connection to the seaport of Koper. Running along theSavaRiver, it is the major rail link fromVillachinAustriaviaLjubljanatoZagreb(Zagreb) inCroatia.

Another important rail link connects Italywith Sloveniaand Hungary. After independence, the previously disused railway line Zalalovo-Murska Sobota has been rebuilt as a direct link between Sloveniaand Hungary.

Landscapes are particularly attractive in the range of the Bohinj Railway, which was once an important link between Vienna and Trieste, but now serves mainly local traffic.

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However, the country has changed beyond all recognition since the fall of Communism andRomaniais now keen to attract tourists from all overEuropeto enjoy its many attractions.

Most new arrivals to the country will step off the plane in the capital city of Bucharest, which was once one of the jewels of Eastern European architecture. Sadly, the buildings that were not destroyed during World War II were demolished under Ceausescu, leaving behind a stereotypical Communist image of concrete tower blocks and poverty.

Visitors are better off leavingBucharestquickly behind them and instead making their way to the unspoilt city of Brasov. Not only has much of the historic architecture remained untouched in this more remote town, but the surrounding area of mountains and valleys provide an idyllic backdrop.

This is also the perfect area for those who prefer to stay active on their holidays, with sports like climbing, mountain biking and walking all popular during the summer months, while there are several ski resorts in the hills aroundBrasovif you are visiting during the winter.

Romania’s best scenery is saved for theCarpathian mountains; stunning high peaks with twisting mountain roads that offer breathtaking viewpoints and heart-lurching steep drops. Public transport through this area is almost non-existent, so travellers who want to head off the beaten track will need to hire a car and do their own driving.

Keep your eyes peeled on both sides of the narrow roads for the brief moments when the scenery opens up, providing glimpses of Gothic castles or dramatic waterfalls. You may even be lucky enough to spot some of the wolves and bears who have made their home in this part of Romania.

The country’s main attraction has always been and remains the legend of Dracula, the vampire character created by Irish writer Bram Stoker. Whether a fan of the book or not, a visit to Bram Castle is a must, even though it looks very different from the castle described in the novel.

Interestingly, the castle was once the home to a real historical figure who has become the stuff of legend, local nobleman Vlad Tepes who became known as Vlad the Impaler because of his gruesome methods of dealing with enemies in battle.

While historical cities and mountain scenery is not everyone’s idea of a great holiday destination, there can be no doubting that a visiting Romania is a truly unique experience; from the Communist hangover of Bucharest to the charm of Brasov, passing through some of the most spectacular scenery in Europe in between, your stay in Romania will not soon be forgotten – and friends will be asking about Dracula’s castle for years to come.

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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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In particular, they looked at attracting tourists from Ireland and since then the small village has turned into a full resort area that can cater perfectly for couples and families without any problems. The beachfront has a lot to offer, with clear azure seas, pristine sand, and plenty of four and five star hotels to choose from.

Most of the beaches are private for those that stay at the hotel that they sit alongside or are sectioned off and considered private for patrons of the beach bars that sit along the shoreline.  It’s not really such a bad way to explore the different stretches of beach however, as each new stop allow you to try the new snacks, cocktails, and signature drinks of the bars.

This may sound a bit expensive until you think about the cost of a sunbed back home, and that with a sunbed you just get a little golden sun replicated whereas for about six euros you can get a drink, snack, and time out on the beach to sunbathe, which is comparably a much better deal.

Spending time at the beaches and the bars is not the only reason to head out to Stalis however, as the area also offers plenty of shopping including some great buys for those interested in jewellery, fashion, and leather. Throughout the town there are also plenty of shopping boutiques where you can pick up odds and ends that are unique to the area, as well as some fashions that you are not likely to find outside of Greece.

In addition, for the night loving crowd, apart of the bars and the restaurants that line the beaches and the city streets there are also a few nightclubs and dance clubs that allow you to get the full holiday experience if you choose to. Plus, as it is only about an hour from the Heraklion, the capital of Crete, you can drive into the city for a bit more fun.

In fact, location is one of the primary reasons for visiting Stalis given the fact that it’s very centrally located on Crete. The city itself is about five minutes away from the larger more cosmopolitan city of Hersonissos and just about a half hour drive away from Knossos Palace.

It is also next door to Malia, where there is a lot more nightlife for those who really want to have a great time of it while on holiday. Plus, the mountains are a short drive away as well so those  wishing to see some of nature’s greatest wonders will also not be disappointed.

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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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In the last century, the Cretan resistance wrote numerous volumes of heroism during Crete’s involvement in World War II. Whether it is the archaeology that lures the tourists, Minotaur is Mythical but the Knossos Palace really exists, or the wonderful landscape of calm seas and wild mountains, suffice to say that over half a million visitors come to Crete every year, and outnumber the residents by two to one.

Those who return year after year to visit their favourite haunts soon stop being visitors and become honorary Cretans. One of the most visited cities on Crete is also one of the largest; Chania. Until you actually visit this stunning city with its backdrop of rugged mountains and sea as still as wine in the harbour, you can’t actually appreciate how big it is.

Go exploring around Crete and the landscape will simply blow you away with its mountains and the unspoilt beaches. When you stand and look down at the mighty Samaria Gorge, which can be traversed with a guide and his trusty donkeys, or on your own if you are rather more hardy, you soon realise that the wonderful character played so eloquently by Anthony Quinn in Zorba the Greek was a Cretan through and through.

The Cretans are fiercely proud of their beautiful island and it’s history that dates right back to the Phoenician’s in 800BC, and rightly so. They are also, however, extremely friendly, welcoming and accommodating and will go out of their way to make all visitors feel at home.

The thing with the Cretan hospitality is that you know it is absolutely genuine, as Crete is both large and rich enough not to have to rely on tourism to survive, although it obviously makes a large contribution to their income. These people go to great lengths to make you feel so welcome because they like you, and want you to enjoy as much of their wonderful traditions and heritage as you can.

Greeks are said to be the most hospitable on earth, and if the Cretans are anything to go by this is absolutely true. Tourists regularly return with tales of how they have been leant a car by a taverna owner when they had no transport, or how they have gone out of their way to help visitors find food, accommodation, special beaches etc, the list is endless.

While Crete is a fully integrated member of Europe, it is also one of the few places left on earth where locals leave their doors unlocked and tourists to go for a swim in the sea and come back to find their towels, camera and phone exactly where they left them. So once you have found somewhere as magical as this, why go anywhere else?

It comes as no surprise to discover that many visitors who return each year make the decision to sell up and move here permanently. Becoming a permanent resident can still be a culture shock however, especially with such a multi layered culture as Crete has, but you will be able to go to distance thanks to your eternal love affair with this jewel in the Aegean.

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Lanzarote has long been a hot favourite with British tourists ever since tourism first took off here back in the 1970´s.  Today the island welcomes about 1.6 million visitors per year with about 60% of them flying in from airports across the UK. The island is also very popular with German, Irish and Spanish tourists too.  Not least as accommodation here is much cheaper than in other winter sun destinations such as the Caribbean.  With Lanzarote villas and hotels starting from as little as €450 per week.

There are plenty of ways to book your accommodation online these days too thanks to the internet and a host of villa rental sites to choose from.  www.holidayvillasinlanzarote.co.uk offers over 250 properties to rent across the island, ranging from a yak herders yurt (located on an eco finca in Arrieta) through to more conventional options such as luxury villas in the main resorts.

Wherever tourists choose to stay they will find that Lanzarote boasts loads of things to do and see.  The island is famed for its barren volcanic landscape, forged by the fires of hundreds of volcanoes which erupted during a six year spell in the 1730´s.  Leaving about a quarter of the island looking like it has been drowned in a sea of lava.  These eruptions were so recent in geological terms that this is probably the most pristine volcanic terrain on the planet and really does look like another world altogether.

A local artist called Cesar Manrique married these landscapes with his own artistry to create a series of amazing visitor attractions around Lanzarote, such as the Jameos del Agua and his own home and studio in Tahiche, now the Cesar Manrique Foundation.  Both of which were built on bubbles in the lava flow.  Manrique also oversaw the development of the Mirador del Rio which grants visitors amazing views of the neighbouring island of La Graciosa.

During the winter months the temperatures on Lanzarote usually reach at least 22 degrees, making it plenty warm enough to enjoy a day on the beach or lounging by the pool should you tire of sightseeing.  And there are lots of great restaurants to explore come nightfall, especially in and around the main holiday resorts.

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A new collaboration between Nectar and easyJet is set to create a new and eye catching cviral that will remind people about how points can be exchanged for easyJet flights, This follows in the wake of the recent partnership that was created between the largest  loyalty programme and airline in the UK.

The tongue in cheek viral highlights the fact that Nectar points cover everything with easyJet, that includes surcharges and taxes. It also reminds cardholders that they can redeem their accumulated Nectar points against easyJet flights to over 550 different destinations, and that there are no restrictions, no time limits and no extra hidden costs.

James Frost, Nectar Marketing Director, said: “It’s important to remind cardholders that they can pay for the flight, taxes and surcharges using Nectar points, or use a combination of Nectar points and cash. In the current economic climate this is a great way to be savvy, make your money work harder and have a great holiday at the same time.”

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As well as its longtime association with the sea, Brest is also known for hosting other major international events such as the European Short Film Festival. The world famous Tour de France cycle race kicked off in Brest in 2004.

The three largest tourist attractions in Brest are the Rue de Siam, or Siam Street, Recouvrance Bridge and the Military Arsenal. The maritime traditions are wonderfully exhibited in the Musee National de la Marine and the towns oldest monuments are the castle and the Tanguy tower. Another attraction is the botanical garden dedicated to endangered species.

Caen is another town in North Western France and is located about 15km inland from the Channel. It is renowned for the many historic buildings that date back to William the Conquerer. Much of Caen was destroyed during the Battle of Normandy and this memory has been preserved through the erection of a memorial of peace.

Due to its location, Caen is a very picturesque holiday spot, being only a few miles away from the coast with its beaches and busy resorts. The Chateau de Cane is a must see when you come to Caen, and is one of the largest medieval fortresses in Europe. The castle is home to both the Museum of fine arts and the Museum of Normandy and houses many exhibits of both art and history.

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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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The town has an incredible atmosphere which you will easily be able to absorb by a walk around the stunning old town. The tiny streets are lined with historic buildings and churches and there are many houses made of stone. There are a great many taverns in the town square where you will be able to enjoy a drink or a quiet meal.

This mountain village is romantic and authentic and there are some great places to enjoy wines that are produced in the local area as well as restaurants that are serving up excellent local cuisine. There are also many wineries in the mountains where vistors can taste the local vintages.

There are a great many Byzantine churches and ancient monasteries in the area and one of note is the Kykkos Monastery which is probably the most famous monastery in all of Cyprus. There is a world Heritage site nearby which includes a castle, the House of Dionysis and the tombs of the Kings

Hiking and walking is very popular in the area as there are beautiful valleys, thick forests and plenty of wildlife to be enjoyed. The area is surrounded by well marked trails that will take you through some of the most spectacular scenery in the region. Many of the trails take you on routes that will allow you to see some of the regions most notable monasteries.

For those who would like to experience something a bit more exciting there are plenty of opportunities for mountain biking in the region. There are many routes that cover different types of terrain and there is something for everyone – whether you are looking for just a leisurely ride or something a bit more intense. Horse riding as well as jeep safaris are another great way to explore the area.

If you’re looking for a great place to relax then the beaches on the south coast are the perfect location. You will also find plenty of water sports on offer as well as diving and snorkelling opportunities. Golfers will enjoy the region as there are several 18-hole golf courses a short drive away from the town. The weather in the region is hot and dry but the altitude brings significant relief from the heat.

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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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First on the list should be Rajska Plaza, which is located on Lopar which is also known as Rab Island. Many beaches on the Adriatic coast are pebbled and this one is a beautiful oasis of sand and is very popular with visitors. The beach has excellent facilities and is kept very clean, there are bars and cafes available so you can relax by the beach and swimming is very safe as there are lifeguards on duty. One of the best ways to get an idea of how stunning the beach is would be to look at photographs; you will really see that it is a paradise.

Sv Ivan beach is located on Cres Island and has an extensive history dating back four millennia. It is a place that is tranquil and is a wonderful place to escape to and spend a relaxing holiday. This beach is not easy to reach, but everyone who goes there will tell you that the 45 minute walk is well worth it. If you do not fancy walking there is a much easier way to get to the beach, you can hire a boat from the coast nearby and have it take you to the beaches shores by sea. Its seclusion mean Sv Ivan beach is often wonderfully peaceful while others in the area have become crowded.

Zlatni Rat is arguably one of the most beautiful beaches in Croatia and is very recognisable as it appears on a great many postcards in the area. It is a fine pebble beach and stretches for over half a mile. There are a great many activities to take part in on this beach and these will appeal to those who like adventure, there are jetskis, boats, gondolas, and banana boats all available for rent. This beach is particularly known as a hotspot for those who enjoy windsurfing.

As well as these entertainment facilities there are plenty of opportunities to relax, along the beachfront there are a great many restaurants and bars where you can find good food and refreshments. The centre of the beach is forested and here you will find a good selection of cafes.

For those who enjoy a good party, Zrce beach on Pag Island is probably the destination to head for. It is very popular among younger people and it is known for its beach parties that run all day and night. There are no less than four nightclubs on the beach which often see famous DJs performing in them. There are also several summer festivals held on the beach where famous artists perform.

Finally, there is Punta Rata which is located on the Makarska Riviera, which is known for its very long pebbled beaches. Forbes magazine recently recognised it as one of the best beaches in the world.

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If you’re bats for all things vampire, you might fancy heading to where it all began: in South East Europe and the Balkans, folklore surrounding the vicious undead have existed for almost three hundred years. But be sure to pack a bit of garlic and ask for some gold coins when you get your travel money; who knows what you’ll have to ward off when you get there.

Following, the top 3 vampire hotspots in Europe:

1. Serbia

The small village of Kisiljevo in Northern Serbia is where one of the first well-documented cases of Vampirism took place. In the 18^th century, peasant Peter Plogojowitz died after a short illness; his corpse stuck around to throttle and suck the blood of his neighbours (and – oddly enough – ask his wife for his favourite pair of shoes).

There’s little of interest in the place today but Serbic superstition has preserved plenty of places of vampiric interest – head to Jagodića vodenica, a watermill near Valjevo and the former hang-out of Serbia’s most famous vampire, Sava Savanović.

In the last few years, there’ve been reports of vampire activity in some of Serbia’s more remote villages – so get comprehensive travel insurance and a stake then head to Niš or Gornje Stopanje to do some real life vampire hunting.

2. Romania

The home nation of Vlad III the Impaler: partial inspiration for Bram Stoker’s Dracula and famous for his gruesome torture of prisoners, political enemies and people who simply ticked him off. His reputation is more positive in Romania than in the rest of the world; locals see him as someone who went to extreme lengths to defend his country, the Catholic faith and the working classes of his time.

That doesn’t stop them capitalising on his image as the ultimate bad boy, though. Go to Bran Castle and get shown around its lush, rich interior, then to Snagov Monastery where his headless body is said to be buried. The nearby Poenari Castle was one of Vlad’s fortresses in the 15^th century – climb 1,480 steps to see the now-ruined walls from which Vlad’s first wife is rumoured to have flung herself.

3. Italy

Though more famous for its food and wine than its undead, Italy’s Volterra is the hometown of the vampiric Volturi coven in the Twilight series. Italian scenes from the film version were actually filmed in Montepunciano, a Tuscan town also renowned for, you’ve guessed it, food and wine – so go hunting for locations while you enjoy its dramatic views, beautiful old buildings and renaissance architecture. You could even pretend its locally-produced pork delicacies are the flesh of a young virgin.

If you’re desperate for something a bit more gruesome, head to Palermo for a tour of the Capuchin crypts and catacombs. The bodies of about eight thousand men, women and children are preserved within – some posed, some in partially opened coffins, all displayed for the public’s icky pleasure.

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How to Travel in Europe

There is a range of travel options open to those wishing to explore all that Europe has to offer, from air travel to pedal power, there is something to suit every travel style.

While flights may be a fast and convenient method of getting from a to b, they are not necessarily the best choice of travel mode for the visitor wishing to discover the best of Europe since time in the air means missing the interesting landscapes and attractions along the way.

Taking a cycling tour can be a great way to discover a small area of Europe, however the distances cyclists will be able to travel during their break are limited so, once again, this option may not be the best for someone looking to get the most out of their European tour.

Countries across Europe offer a range of public transport options from trains to coaches, which can be great for those who like to make leisurely trips, although stops along public transport routes will be limited to those that are viable and profitable for the transport operators, meaning that areas that are “off the beaten” track may remain out of reach for those who opt for this travel option.

Bearing all of this in mind, travellers who want to see the best of Europe may decide that travelling by road offers the most convenient, flexible and comprehensive way in which to uncover all the that area has to offer. Whether travelling in their own vehicles from their country of origin or using a car rental vehicle if arriving from outside of the EU, visitors who have access to their own transport will be able to plan their own routes and tailor their trip to their own preferences.

Road Travel Routes Through Europe

City hoppers may wish to begin or end their trip in the UK, starting off with the sights of London before heading south and crossing the channel into France where Paris awaits. From Paris travellers can choose a range of onward destinations, from Barcelona in Spain and Lisbon in Portugal to the Swiss and German cities of Bern and Berlin. Alternatively there is the option to head across the boarder into Italy where a wealth of exciting city destinations from Florence to Venice to Rome awaits.

For those who like to head away from tried and tested tourist routes, eastern European countries such as the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Slovenia and Poland are all accessible by road from central Europe and offer the opportunity to uncover a whole new area.

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The main communication routes of the island with the outside are the Puerto de La Luz the capital and the Puerto de Las Nieves in the municipality Agaete which has an important maritime route and the Airport of Gran Canaria formerly known as Gando Airport and is located about 20 km from the city between the towns of Ingenio and Telde.

The road networks of the island’s all lead to the City of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria and the interior roads tend to be organized following the topography of the island from the cliffs leading up to the central area. Parque de San Telmo has a bus station in the city.

There is a system of highways and motorways like the GC-1 motorway which is the principle road on the island which connects Palmas de Gran Canaria in the tourist area of the South through to the Southeast Coast and the GC-2 Motorway which links the capital with Agaete island. The Northern Circunvalacion Palmas de Gran Canaria runs through the metropolitan area of the city and forms the dual-3 GC, GC-4, GC-23 and GC-31.

El Tren de Gran Canaria TGC is an alternative rail transport to get from Agaete to the capital island, from where it will continue to Maspalomas and is still in planning and construction phases.

The official holiday on the island is September 8th in honour of the Virgen del Pino Teror and patroness of the island. It is very popular to join the pilgrimage on the 7^th September Other street entertainments are the Ademas Carnaval de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria and the other municipalities of the island and it is considered to be one of the most important holidays on the islands.

Most of the monuments that can be seen in Gran Canaria are pre conquest and some are  preserved sites and of the original aboriginal peoples of the island like the painted Galdar Cave and the St. Valeron María de Guía.

Noteworthy monuments are the Cathedral de Canarias Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, the Church of St. John the Baptist also known as the Cathedral Arucas and the Basilica de Nuestra Senora del Pino Patrona de Canarias and the Diocese of the island and Basilica of San Juan Bautista Telde.

The capital on the island has the historic district of Vegueta, and the Museo Canario, Spirit Square, the Casa de Colon and the hermitage of San Antonio Abad where Columbus prayed before going on his first trip to America.

Other buildings of interest are the castles of La Luz, Mata, San Francisco and San Cristobal, and the Casa Fuerte and Rome the oldest Castilian building on the island.

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The Columbia Beach Resort in Pissouri on the Pissouri Bay is just 20 minutes from the airport, and offers the chance to stay in a fantastic location with a friendly atmosphere and great amenities.

Nestled against a backdrop of white cliffs and looking out over the bay, this all-suite resort is surrounded by unspoilt countryside and every suite offers views out over the sea or the gardens here. The grounds are filled with sweet smelling bougainvillea and olive trees, and palm trees line the edges of the pool. The hotel is built using traditional Cypriot styles and includes natural stone and wood, terracotta tiling and graceful arches.

There are three levels of suite, Junior, Executive and Family, and each is decorated in gentle colours with shuttered windows, cool stone floors and large balconies. A seven night stay in a Junior suite with garden view, return flights, transfers and breakfast included will cost from just £735 per person. All suites come with air conditioning, and there is a twice daily maid service provided as well.

As well as fabulous beach and wonderful landscape, the resort offers plenty of facilities to appeal to families and couples alike. You’ll have access to the spa, water sports, swimming pool, children’s club, and there are three championship level golf courses nearby too.

The spa is an important part of the facilities here, and has treatment rooms looking out over the tranquil gardens. It has sauna, steam bath, cold plunge pool and Jacuzzi as well as lots of treatments available from simple body wraps and massage, to specialist Chinese Taoist massage and crystal colour therapy treatments designed to help with healing and balance.

In the children’s club, they provide an action packed programme for kids aged 3-12 years old during the summer months of July and August, and also during the Easter and Christmas holidays. There is also a children’s play area, and a babysitting service available.

The resort has two dining rooms available for guests. There is the Dionysos restaurant where they serve wonderful a la carte gourmet cuisine in a cool and stylish restaurant setting or out on the sun terrace next to the pool. There is also the Apollo Taverna where they serve a mixture of international foods and where you can once again enjoy al fresco eating if you desire this time sitting on the terrace looking out over the sea towards cape Aspro. The dress code for both restaurants is smart casual.
Overall you’ll find yourself with plenty of opportunities to relax in these superb surroundings, spending your time lazing on the beach or by the pool, or enjoying the many amenities offered here.

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1.       See a Parade

A Disney parade is always a highlight of any trip to Disneyland Paris. Parades run several times throughout the day and feature popular Disney characters.

2.       Ride a Rollercoaster

Thrill-seekers are in for a real treat, as there are several exhilarating rollercoasters to tackle. Space Mountain 2 in Discoveryland is an extreme coaster not for the faint-hearted. Not only are there more twists and turns than a grand prix track, but it’s also in the dark! Visit Walt Disney Studios Park to ride Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith as it blasts out the tunes of the iconic rock band or dare to climb aboard Big Thunder Mountain in Frontierland.

3.       Meet your Favourite Disney Characters

A range of Disney characters are dotted around the park at various times throughout the day, just waiting for photo opportunities. Those staying at the Disneyland Hotel, will even be able to enjoy breakfast with the characters.

4.       Pamper Yourself

A trip to Disneyland Paris doesn’t have to be stressful, as there are many ways to relax and unwind while you’re there. Take a dip in the pool, let off steam in the sauna or get pampered at the Disneyland Hotel’s Celestia Spa.

5.       Enjoy a Show

Sit back and watch your beloved Disney characters take to the stage for a spectacular show. Whether it’s the breath taking Tarzan Experience, or the incredible Fantillusion, they work that goes into them and the attention to detail is sure to amaze and delight audiences.

6.       It’s a Small World…

No trip to Disneyland Paris would be complete without a journey on the ‘It’s a Small World’ ride. Cruise past a range of tiny characters all singing that famous tune that is guaranteed to be stuck in your head for the rest of your holiday.

7.       Have a Bite to Eat

For those who are feeling peckish throughout the day, there are 71 places to eat in the park. From Buzz Lightyear’s Pizza Planet Restaurant to the Cowboy Cookout Barbecue, there really is something to suit everyone’s palate.

8.       Get Active

If you’ve still got some energy left after walking around the park all day, then you’ll be able to add a little sporting activity to your trip. Enjoy a round of golf or reach for the skies on the Treetop Adventure Trail.

9.       See a Film

Head to the Gaumont Multiplex in the Disney village for all the latest movie releases with its 15 screens or see films come to life by enjoying a 3D movie experience at the IMAX theatre there.

10. Shop ‘Til You Drop

Make sure to enjoy a spot of retail therapy during your stay. Hundreds of leading brands are available at La Vallée Village, so you’ll be able to splash out and treat yourself.

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