Visit Québec for a Truly Unique North American Ex...

Québec offers the chance to experience a rich mixture of all things modern and historical in cities such as Montréal, Québec and Gatineau. As you stroll along the banks of the St. Lawrence River in these urban areas, you may witness the bold contrast between eighteenth-century architecture and contemporary street performers or artists. In Montréal, the world’s second-largest French-speaking city after Paris, you may experience all of the excitement and vitality of Parisian life distinguished by a remarkable Canadian style.

Outside of these bustling urban centres, there are spectacular natural wonders in the 27 natural parks in Québec that attract visitors all throughout the year. In the winter, ski resorts ranging in size from one chair-lift to larger-scale resorts such as Mont Tremblant offer panoramic vistas of the Laurentian Mountains. In addition, no winter holiday to Québec would be complete without an authentic sled dog ride throughout the snow-covered forests. In the warmer months, hunting, fishing, kayaking, and hiking are popular holiday activities. Whatever time you choose to visit Québec, there are an incredible array of activities and sights that await you.

Step back to the golden age of travel with a trans...

In the early days of travel there was nothing more glamorous than taking a transatlantic cruise, we are all aware of the most luxurious vessel that set sail on 10 April, one hundred years ago, back then it was the largest ship in the world and as it set sail from Southampton on its first transatlantic voyage to New York no one had any idea it would never make it. The ship is of course was the Titanic which hit an iceberg on 14 April 1912, at 11.40pm and sank three hours later with the loss of 1,500.

The Titanic was built to mark a golden age of travel, fortunately though people weren’t put off after the disaster with safety given priority and more were vessels built. Cruising became highly popular, especially with the rich who found the vessels to be very much a home away from home such was the grandeur of their design and interiors.

A voyage across the Atlantic Ocean on a cruise still remains to this day one of the world’s great cruise routes. Passengers enjoy the luxurious accommodation on offer, the leisure activities on board and the fact that there are few ports of call and for many it makes a change from getting a simple transatlantic flight from the UK to New York. A lot of travellers talk about the setting sail from Southampton out into the vast bleakness of the Atlantic Ocean, which can be exciting, terrifying and exhilarating all at the same time. It differs greatly from other cruises where you normally set out into glorious sunshine to tropical destinations.

Many cruise lines offer transatlantic cruises, including Royal Caribbean, NCL and many more and you can then depart further afield with these lines to, to the Caribbean and beyond. All ships are fully equipped with plenty of on board activities set in luxurious surroundings, none more so than the Cunard lines Regal ships, who offer the epitome of golden age travel.

Picture courtesy of estampemoderne

A volcanic hike for the adventurous...

The ‘ring of fire’ is not just a saying, nor is it only a song. The ‘ring of fire’ actually refers to an area that is located around the Pacific Rim, but which is most active near Indonesia, in the Pacific Ocean. This area is home to more than 40 volcanoes, hence the reference to it being the ‘ring of fire’ and is a wildly popular location for trekking.

In addition to hot sandy beaches and sunshine, Indonesia also has its share of hot volcanoes and lava that have many of the curious dying to explore. A guided tour through the best of Java will have you up close and personal with more than half a dozen live volcanoes. These incredibly adventurous trips also take trekkers up to Krakotoa, the remains of an enormous volcano that erupted in 1883, tearing the island into several pieces.

If this were not enough, have no fear, there is more. This guided tour, which lasts for around 18 days, also sees its thrill-seeking adventurers soaking in natural hot springs from their camp along the shores of Rakata’s Island and hiking straight up to peer inside craters. Depending on circumstance, natural circumstances that is, some of these volcanoes may be active. If this is the case it will give you a chance to see a volcano spewing hot, glowing lava.

These volcanoes also allow hikers to witness the lasting effects that the eruptions have, including steaming craters, hot mud pools, lava landscapes, fields of ash and even the turquoise lakes that are sometimes formed following an eruption.

Cruise deals – a great way to see the world...

You have taken the plunge and decided to book a cruise and now is the time to search for the best cruise deals. Coupons, discounts and special offers are all very well, but perceptive travellers know there are plenty more ways to land a deal.

In January and February, cruise companies start booking for the coming holiday months. Cruise lines offer cheap rates, often the cheapest you will see all year and this is the ideal time to snap up that cruise you have always wanted.

The key to a cheap price is booking in advance. The closer to the departure date you book, the higher the price and the less chance you have of getting the type of cabin you prefer or securing good dining reservations. It is not uncommon for travellers to start booking cruises a year in advance and for exotic locations, you will need even more time. Booking early not only secures your spot on a popular cruise, but also gives you time to arrange for flights, visas and passports, as needed.

Travellers can score a lucky last minute deal by snatching up a cancelled reservation within 60 to 90 days before the departure. This period offers low rates, but there is no guarantee that a spot will open up or that you will like the available cabin. Still, for those who want to throw caution to the wind, searching for last-minute openings can lower the price tag considerably.

When you make your reservations, search on online travel agent websites. These sites offer special deals you may or may not find on the cruise line’s own website. They provide all the information you need and let you quickly compare deals between cruise lines, without doing the research yourself. This combination of deal hunting, planning and a little good luck will often get you a real deal on your holiday.

UK flights to Hawaii...

There are no direct flights between the UK and Hawaii. Travellers from the UK who want to explore the beaches, culture and natural wonders of Hawaii will have to travel via another country.  There are connecting flights from the UK to Hawaii from cities in Asia and North America.
 
Travellers can fly to Hawaii from the UK via New York.  Numerous airlines will fly between the UK and airports within the New York area.  These include John F Kennedy International and Newark Liberty International.  Continental, British Airways and Virgin Atlantic offer direct flights between Heathrow and Newark, allowing for a convenient connection without having to change airports.
 
Travellers can also fly via Los Angeles.  Continental Airlines, United Airlines, Delta Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines and American Airlines fly from LA to Hawaii.  Air New Zealand, Virgin Atlantic and British Airways offer non-stop flights from LA to London.
 
Alternatively, a traveller can fly to Hawaii from the Haneda or Narita airports.  United Airlines, Japan Airlines, Hawaiian and Delta offer non-stop flights to Honolulu from Tokyo.  British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, Japan Airlines and Al Nippon Airways all fly to Tokyo from London.

Staying healthy on your cruise...

Last minute Mediterranean cruise deals can provide great adventures and are easier on your wallet.  Cruise and stay deals are a great way to extend your knowledge of a destination while experiencing all the fun of a cruise.  Before you set off to parts unknown, make sure you take proper precautions to stay healthy.  Here are a few reminders which might help.

Tips for keeping healthy on land and sea

•    Ensure vaccinations are up to date.
•    Obtain travel sickness and anti-diarrhoeal medication before you sail.
•    Consult your doctor regarding precautions or vaccinations specific to your destination.
•    Carry copies of any medical prescriptions in case they need to be replaced.
•    Wash your hands frequently and carry disinfectant wipes or gel.
•    Use your cabin lavatory instead of public toilets whenever possible.
•    Carry a copy of your medical history and insurance information.
•    Use adequate sunscreen protection even if travelling to snowy climates.
•    Carry a basic first-aid kit in your luggage.
•    Limit alcoholic beverages and keep hydrated.
•    Carry an EpiPen for possible allergic reactions.
•    Drink bottled water whenever possible.  If local water is not safe to drink, remember to avoid ice.

Above all, enjoy yourself and have a bon voyage.

A visit to Niagara Falls...

Niagara Falls is a prime sightseeing destination for many people on holiday in New York and Ontario. The view that can be seen from the New York side of the river is entirely different from the one that can be seen in Ontario. As a result, many choose to spend a day or more exploring the waterfall from the US side and an additional day or more exploring from the Canadian side. During some parts of the year, the Ontario side of the waterfall has a light show during the evenings, which illuminates the waterfall, making it look incredibly stunning and beautiful.

Adventurous holidaymakers might enjoy taking on or more of Niagara Falls’ guided tours. Some of these tours enable visitors to walk under the falls and this view is entirely different from the perspective seen from the top of the waterfall. Do not forget your camera; there are sure to be lots of views that you will want to capture for a lifetime.

Since Niagara Falls is regarded as one of the natural wonders of the world, there are numerous souvenirs available for purchase in both New York and Ontario, to commemorate your holiday. Some of them are mass-produced trinkets, while others are handmade pieces that are likely to become family heirlooms. These souvenirs can be found in the many gift shops and boutiques located on both the US and Canadian sides of the falls.

Holidaying in Loch Ness...

The Scottish Highlands is riddled with lochs and fantastic mountainsides; the most famous of which is Loch Ness, the fabled home of the Monster.  Not far from Inverness, the northern capital of Scotland, the area around Loch Ness is an unexplored wilderness rife with heather moors, rearing mountains, and glistening lochs.  The ideal location for an adventure holiday, the area offers a huge range of outdoor activities and comfortable accommodation.

Whether you’re a nature fanatic, or simply looking for some unspoilt countryside, Loch Ness offers a peaceful getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life.  Take a trail into the mountains and forget yourself.  Discover flora and fauna like you’ve never seen before.

The famed hunt for the Loch Ness Monster culminates in the Museum of Unnatural Mystery, in which the original photo supposedly depicting the famous beast is on display.  Boat trips around the lake allow holidaymakers to begin their own exploration.

As well as the more mystical of activities, Loch Ness offers a huge range of facilities from gold courses to fishing, water sports to horse riding.  There are activities to suit all tastes.

Family Holidays in Greece...

With so many destinations available, choosing where to take your holidays 2013 can be a tough decision.  Price will most likely be a factor in your final destination choice, particularly if you are on a tight budget, as so many families are in these tough economic times.  However, it is important that families spend quality time together on a regular basis, and there is no better way to do this than by taking a family holiday.

Greece is one of the top destination choices for UK holidaymakers, and is a particular hot spot for family holidays.  This European country ranks as one of the best places to enjoy sun drenched beaches, water sports, and all around family fun while also offering excellent value for money.

From beautiful coastline to sandy beaches, cheap holidays to Greece offers visitors a wide variety of activities including kite surfing, horseback riding, biking, and hiking through the hill towns of Greece. 

Families that are interested in history will enjoy visiting Athens, Ioannina, and some of the smaller towns that are located in the countryside.  For a unique day out, take a boat ride to the Greek Islands, or visit some of the ancient ruins that are spread throughout the country.

Greece is an ideal place for a family holiday, and offers families a diverse selection of accommodation options as well, ranging from top-end hotels and beachside villas to self-catering cottages.

Direct flights from the UK are plentiful, and most land in the popular cities of Athens, Mykonos, or Kos. 

A Guide to Christian Sites in Israel...

Israel is an excellent tourist destination for people of all faiths, and appeals to travellers with a wide diversity of interests.  As the home of Jesus Christ and early Christianity, the modern day State of Israel is host to a large number of fascinating sites related to Christianity which attract millions of visitors every year. 

Bethlehem, located on the West Bank, is a popular tourist destination, and is most famous for being the birthplace of Jesus.  The Church of the Nativity is famous for its star, which stands above the place where Jesus is believed to have been born.  Nazareth, the town where Jesus spent his childhood, is home to the Basilica of the Annunciation, as well as the Church of St. Joseph.

Capernaum is located on the Sea of Galilee, and is heavily associated with the ministry of Jesus.  A synagogue where Jesus is believed to have preached has been restored, and now houses a museum.  Travellers can also visit the Church of the House of St. Peter, which also houses several interesting museum exhibits. 

Another very popular site in the area is the Mount of the Beatitudes.  This hill offers a nice view of the Sea of Galilee and the surrounding area; the Galilee region is considered to be one of the most beautiful in Israel.  Before you leave the area, be sure to see Bethsaida, which has a large archaeological site with cobblestones dating from the time of Jesus. 

A holiday to see Christian sites located in Israel wouldn’t be complete without spending some time in Jerusalem.  The Mount of Olives, where Jesus prayed shortly before his death, is home to the beautifully-decorated Church of All Nations; the church stands at the base of the Mount.  The Via Dolorosa – the route along which Jesus carried the cross – is one of the most popular and widely visited sites in Jerusalem.  The Church of the Holy Sepulchre is located at the site of Jesus’ crucifixion, and is considered to be one of the most solemn and holy sites in the world.