Villas in England...

The best way to take full advantage of the beautiful English countryside, especially if you’re going as a family, is to hire a holiday home for the duration of your stay. The advantages of choosing this over hotel accommodation are many and varied. Not only do you get the complete flexibility you need, without being tied to set dining times, but it usually works out much cheaper as well.

Many English families use their second homes for holidays themselves and rent them out the rest of the year, so they have all the comforts of a real home, with books, games, TV, internet connection and fitted kitchen, to make your stay a true home away from home experience.

Renting through the owner ensures you don’t end up in a complex with other families, and special arrangements can be arranged with the owner beforehand if necessary, so your break can be tailored to suit your needs.

Separate bedrooms for the kids means they can get up early and watch TV or play games without causing trouble to the rest of the group, and day trips can be planned at your own pace.

With a vast range of cabins, cottages, farm houses, apartments and villas to choose from, you’re certain to find the place that fits your holiday requirements, and use it either for the duration of your holiday or simply as a base for exploring the surrounding region. England has plenty to offer, and renting a villa or other holiday home there makes perfect sense to ensure an enjoyable stay.

Going ashore on your cruise holiday...

Cruise holidays have become very popular with families, although they are not suitable for babies and toddlers, three to 16 years are the best age. On most cruise lines, children are not permitted to stay on board if their parents go ashore.

All cruise lines offer shore excursions, which can be arranged by the tour staff on board. Shore excursions are becoming much more adventurous. To name just three: Royal Caribbean Cruises offers adventure tours, Carnival Cruises offers kayaking through the jungle in Belize, and Princess Cruises offers kayaking, hiking and snorkel adventures in the Caribbean. Some popular excursions are in high demand, so it is best to book these well in advance. However, it is possible to go ashore to explore independently. Taxi fares should be negotiated before setting out. You must also ensure that you return in good time for the ship’s departure.

The port is usually the main destination, although in some places the main sites of interest are not on the coast, and are only accessible by train or coach. For example, Mediterranean cruises that visit the port of Livorno in Italy give passengers the opportunity to visit Florence or Pisa. The length of time the ship spends in port varies depending on the cruise.

When the ship docks in a port, the passengers usually leave by the gangway. However, in some places, the ship has to anchor some way from the shore. In this case, passengers are taken ashore by launch. The launches are free, and there is a frequent service to allow passengers to come and go as they please. Anchor or tender ports will be indicated in the itinerary, but this can change depending on the weather and how busy the port is. 

Ski Alpe d’Huez – perfect for all the fami...

Ski in Alpe d’Huez, one of the premier resorts in the French Alps with superb skiing holidays for all abilities and a wide variety of night life! This is a true skier’s paradise and is considered France’s big hitter, with first class piste design, lift system and snow. With an exclusive focus on excellent ski holidays, Alpe d’Huez is blissfully easy to use and continuous investment and dedication keeps it State of the Art.

The slopes are friendly to all levels of skier beginners have vast nursery slopes close to the resort centre. There’s an array of wide, gentle greens to potter on before venturing further a field where you’ll find beautiful, endless, wide-open pistes. For the better skier up to intermediate standard, they can cover the area on cruising blues or testing reds that usually have a black alternative. Alpe d’Huez ski holidays give experts all the challenge they can handle, including the longest black in Europe and some fantastic challenges from the top of Pic Blanc at a height of 3300m you can ski black runs almost all the way to the village at 1860m!

Snowboarders are not forgotten either, they have plenty of opportunities in Alpe d’Huez with a couple of boarder-cross parks and snow parks with ramps, jump and rails. They also have vast powder fields and natural gullies. Skiing and boarding Alpe d’huez is a must for your next winter sports holiday.

Renting a Holiday Apartment in Tuscany...

It goes without saying that the Tuscany hills are sumptuously beautiful and almost surreally serene. But if you’re planning a holiday there, you’re going to need accommodation which won’t have the effect of undoing the soothing and soul-boosting effects of the region’s natural beauty. This is where an established company such as ‘To Tuscany’, which has won glittering accolades from reviewers in the British Telegraph and Daily Mail, can come to your aid.

There is little point in seeking solace, comfort and recuperation in the beauty of Tuscany if you’re doing so in accommodation so primitive it makes you want to curl into a foetal position and rock. With established tour operators like ‘To Tuscany’, you can rest assured that you’ll have a magnificent variety of options to choose from depending on your tastes and pocket – you could stay in anything from a modern self-catering villa to a fairy-tale castle. There are plenty of villas, farm houses and holiday cottages in between to choose from, too. Companies like this take care to hand pick the accommodation they’re willing to put their name against. For less than £800 per week, you could be experiencing the majestic natural splendour of Tuscany in a 12th century stone farmhouse with 21st century equipment installed.

Just make sure that, whichever Tuscany apartment operator you’re exploring, there are plenty of photographs of the properties (inside and out) available online and downloadable background information – ‘To Tuscany’ also includes detailed floor plans.

Tel Aviv – The White City...

For a first time visitor, Tel Aviv may come as a wonderful surprise. Instead of plodding camels and ancient ruins, they will find a contemporary Mediterranean metropolis filled with culture, boutiques, chic cafes and a busy nightlife.  A long kept secret of jet-setters, Tel Aviv is an edgier destination than the tourist traps along the Mediterranean basin.

Tel Aviv began as a sleepy little town settled in 1909 by Zionist pioneers, and was a source of Levantine, Oriental and Central European influences with haphazard streets. In the 1920’s Jaffa’s commercial centre moved to Tel Aviv and the city planners laid out a new street grid to modernize the city.

Tel Aviv is filled with life, from the seductive creativity pouring into its arts and theatres, to the laughter that spills out from the sidewalk cafes, and the non-stop party atmosphere of the summer months. The nightlife is vigorous and can even include dancing on the bars themselves.

The greatest architectural influence came from the German Jews who migrated to Tel Aviv during World War II. These architects were trained in the Bauhaus International or Modern style, and this style is reflected all over the city today.

Tel Aviv is the home of the symphony orchestra of Zubin Mehta, along with many art galleries, theatres and an opera house. The city boasts open air minstrels, poetry readings, experimental theatres, avant garde jazz performances and galley exhibitions.

The sun is usually shining in Tel Aviv, but the summers can be hot and humid. Visit in the spring when the days are warm enough for the beach and the nights are cool enough for a sweater.

Cheap flights to Tel Aviv are available from most international airports.

Palma de Mallorca, Spain...

The capital of the Balearic Islands is the beautiful city of Palma de Mallorca, situated in the south of Mallorca, with a remarkable seaside view over Palma Bay.

One of the city’s finest landmarks is the breathtaking cathedral, which dominates the bay. Another of the city’s highlights is the royal castle of Almudaina Palace, an old palace of Muslim governors. From here, you can meander through the back streets of Palma, winding around a cultural maze of palaces and museums.

History and architecture enthusiasts should visit the Gothic Church of Santa Eulalia, the Convent of St. Clara and the churches of San Francisco, the resting place of Roman Llull and San Miguel.

Tourists more intent on a modern experience can head to the Plaza Mayor, a lively town square with arcades, galleries and markets. For an abundance of flowers, stroll along the Paseo de la Rambla, behind which is the home of the Teatro Municipal, where the theatre and opera house reign supreme.

Accommodation in the capital city ranges from luxurious to the basic low-budget hostel.  Pala de Mallorca also hosts a number of private spainish villas and apartments that are rented on short-term arrangements. Many are like a home away from home, with swimming pools and other amenities.

The markets of Palma open early and close around lunchtime. Most markets operate under the old tradition of bartering, so bargain hunters will be in their element. The notable markets are the Llotja del Peix fish market, the Mercat Olivar that serves up fresh produce, meat and cheeses and the craft market in the Plaza Major.

Flights to Palma de Mallorca are available from most international airports including London Heathrow and Gatwick.

Travel guides – Thailand...

The country of Thailand is actually a Kingdom, located at the heart of Southeast Asia. Two of its most visited cities are Bangkok (Land of Smiles, formerly best known as a backpacker’s playground) and Phuket.

Attractions include the opulent Royal Grand Palace, the floating market (Damnoen Saduak – for the inimitable experience of floating through one of Thailand’s river villages), the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, the Mae Sa waterfall of Chiang Mai, the National Museum of Bangkok, Chatuchak Market (said to be the world’s biggest flea market), and several stunning and historic temples within Bangkok itself and throughout Thailand, including the Tiger Temple and the Marble Temple (Wat Benchamabophit). Thailand also has many regal structures, sacred buildings, landscaped gardens and animal safaris. Thailand has immaculate beaches and offers every kind of traveller the ultimate holiday experience, whatever your budget. Koh Phangan is well-known for its monthly full moon parties, euphoric beach gatherings where natives and travellers share the vibe and enjoy the rhythm of the music from dusk until dawn.

For a secluded getaway, there are private palm-fringed islands, where you can stay in a tree house, a rustic beach-side hut or an authentic camp lodge. For those who prefer luxury, Thailand has hundreds of spa hotels which offer treatments such as specialist Thai massage.

There is so much to do, whether you prefer lounging on one of the hundreds of sunny beaches or catching the waves. There is a good choice of water sports (diving, snorkelling, surfing), or there are excellent routes to hike or bike – take your camera and lots of water. The country is at its hottest between March and May, while peak tourist season is from November to February. Parts of Thailand (and many other regions of Asia) were devastated by the 2004 tsunami, but true to the Thai spirit, a full recovery is in good progress and Thailand continues to attract millions of tourists every year.

Choose Princess Cruises for a great holiday!...

Princess Cruises is an American cruise line that is renowned for the quality of its service. Families are welcome on most Princess cruises, where there is plenty of entertainment for everyone. Choose the Pacific Princess or the Tahitian if you prefer relaxing in the company of like-minded adults.

As well as world cruises, Mediterranean cruises and Caribbean cruises, destinations include Asia, Alaska, the Mexican Riviera, the Panama Canal, Europe, South America, Australia and New Zealand, South Pacific Islands, Canada and New England.

Princess Cruises’ staterooms are spacious and comfortable, with complimentary 24-hour room service. Some have ocean views and balconies. For a more luxurious holiday, treat yourself to an upgrade to a sumptuous suite. These have a lounge area, elegant balconies, a luxurious bathroom, and a glass of champagne to welcome travellers on board.

Princess Cruises offer a range of activities including ice carving, cookery demonstrations, wine-tasting and computer skills. Guest speakers give talks on aspects of the destination ports, including theatre, art, history and politics. However, if you prefer, you can workout in the gym, be pampered in the spa, or simply relax with a drink by the pool.

Children aged between three and 17 can enjoy the onboard activities, including films, games, arts and crafts, karaoke and much more. There are also special children’s menus.

Entertainment on board the ships includes dancing, comedy, bars and lounges, a casino, Broadway-style shows and themed parties. Every Princess cruise ship also offers ‘movies under the stars’, which shows the latest Hollywood blockbusters and major sporting events on a huge 300 square foot screen on the deck.

Dining can be a five-star formal dinner, a casual meal in one of the speciality restaurants or informal restaurants, or room service in the privacy of your own cabin. Speciality restaurants include Italian, or a New Orleans style Café featuring Cajun and Creole dishes.

Ski Verbier...

With the Olympics in Vancouver the interest in ski holidays has taken on a new lease of life but for most winter sport holiday makers it is something that they can admire and hope to copy in their own small way! The snow in the Alps is about as good as it gets and there is no better place to take a skiing holiday than at Verbier.

Verbier’s combination of extensive scenic pistes plus thrilling off-piste terrain has made it a must-ski resort for anyone of intermediate standard. With slopes as high as 3,330 metres, it’s also sure to have late-season snow if you decide on a ski holiday later. Just a short hop from Geneva, and easily accessible by public transport, Verbier makes an ideal choice for a long-weekend break. Add some charming mountain restaurants and legendary nightlife, and you have the ingredients for the perfect ski resort.

Apart from its fabulous skiing there is a great night life for the young at heart and not so young at heart, you can enjoy some of the best après ski in Switzerland. The Hotel Farinet has live music every early evening, with dancing on the bar and tables; if it gets too rowdy, the adjacent lounge bar full of low sofas is ideal for a quieter chat. The Pub Mont Fort is full of skiers who have popped in for a quick après-ski drink and don’t get around to leaving until bedtime!

With some great ski deals still available to Verbier and the entire Alpine region, getting away for a long weekend or a mid week break has never been easier or cheaper from ski holiday specialists, check now and don’t miss out on that super snow and fun at Verbier.

City travel guides – Paris...

Hailed as the most romantic city in Europe, Paris, but more specifically the image of the skyline at sunset with the iconic silhouetted Eiffel Tower, has almost become a lovers’ cliché. A favoured destination for honeymooners and culture vultures alike, France’s atmospheric capital is also one of the most popular hotspots for marriage proposals. Paris has three airports, all owned and managed by Aéroports de Paris. The largest of these is Charles de Gaulle (or Roissy) airport, which handled almost 58 million passengers in 2009.

Located on the River Seine in northern France, Paris has a thriving population and is a popular business destination, as well as being the city widely associated with love and leisure. It is, in fact, one of the most densely populated cities in the world, and the underground Metro and overground tramway trains are constantly packed full of travelers. It also has a bike-sharing system to encourage natives and tourists alike to take in the sights and sounds of the city without adding to the pollution. Paris is steeped in history and offers a wealth of attractions, such as the shopper’s paradise Champs-Elysées, the medieval Notre Dame cathedral, city hall Hotel de Ville, classical museum the Louvre and the Arc de Triomphe – and of course the towering steel girders of its famed Eiffel Tower. For visitors hungry for a taste of the arts, the nightlife and cultural buzz of Paris is world-renowned. It has numerous opulent opera houses, including Opera Garnier and Opera Bastille.

Paris is also home to some spectacular performance productions (think the decadent Moulin Rouge), and at night the streets are alive with sound and activity from the bright, bustling music, theatre and concert halls. There are hundreds of café bars and restaurants, so whatever your preferred dining experience and culinary tastes, Paris has something to suit your palate and your pocket. Although it is certainly possible to enjoy Paris on a shoestring budget, there is a lot to be said to splashing the cash. From cheap and cheerful lodges and rented apartments on the city outskirts to grandiose hotel rooms with the best of Paris right outside your penthouse window, there is accommodation for everyone. But at the end of a busy day of sight-seeing, dig deep for a fistful of Euros because it is worth forking out for an overnight stay in one of Paris’s most luxurious hotels. These include the Meurice and the achingly hip Amour – the only place to be if you are an artist, rock star or thespian wanting to show your lover just how much you care.