Thailand: the land of sunshine smiles...

Thailand should be on any discerning tourist’s list of countries to visit.  The people are friendly, the food is terrific and the beaches are second to none.  Thailand is an enigma: you will love and hate some things at the same time, but you will find yourself constantly being drawn back to the land of sunshine smiles.

The majority of visitors arrive at Bangkok’s new Suvarnabhumi International Airport.  From there, downtown Bangkok is easily accessible.  Ensure that the taxi driver has his meter turned on before he heads off: some of them are notorious for trying to con money out of unsuspecting tourists, and be aware that driving in Thailand tends to be a little more reckless than it is in the UK! 

Places of Interest

Tourists flock to the old town area of Bangkok to see the Grand Palace, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, and to take a boat trip down the Chao Phraya River to visit the Temple of Dawn and the floating market.

Siam-Ratchadamri is one of the biggest shopping districts in the city and visitors can buy all their souvenirs as well as many useful gadgets or clothes for themselves.  There are a number of top hotels in this area too, which means that tourists do not have to tackle the Bangkok traffic each time they venture out to shop.

Phuket

After a few days in Thailand, why not take a short plane ride to Phuket?  It only takes one hour, and flights are frequent.  Spend a few days on the beach soaking up the sun before trying any of the myriad activities on offer.  The nightlife is extremely hedonistic, but the friendliness of the locals will keep you wanting to go back.

Although the completely different culture in Thailand may seem strange initially, you are sure to fall in love with the place – and be bowled over by the friendliness of the Thai people.

Picture: Shelby PDX

The Greek Island of Kos...

For an affordable Greek getaway, you can’t beat the island of Kos, made up of a beautiful coastline small little coves and quaint fishing villages. Holidays in Kos have something to offer every traveller, whether you’re looking for a quiet relaxing getaway or a lively break away. The typical white wash villages aren’t a sight to miss, hidden in the hills. You should also try and explore the countryside here and not just the beaches; there really are some beautiful views to enjoy.

Why not look at the Cleopatra hotel Kos, in the lively town of Kardamena on the Eastern coast of the Island. There is plenty to enjoy in this resort and the Cleopatra hotel is just a ten minute walk from the harbour and beach. Self-catering is affordable and there are a number of eating options in this resort, which won’t break the bank.  If you like more amenities the Alexandra Hotel in Kos Town might be better suited. Kos Town is another lively resort and popular with many British tourists. And the Alexandra hotel is centrally located, with bed and breakfast options.

Kos Town is one of the most popular destinations; the Capital of the island has a rather lively party reputation.  It caters for every taste. With fantastic waterfront bars and restaurant’s to a typical taverna. There are also a number of bars and clubs to go to for a cheap drink as well. But Kos Town isn’t all about partying; there is a beautiful 15th century Knights castle to explore or, Venetian buildings, Roman baths and the Plane Tree of Hippocrates. Kos is actually pretty close to turkey, so as well as enjoying what this beautiful island has to offer, you can also enjoy a day long excursion to the popular Turkish resort of Bodrum.

Greece is a great choice for a summer holiday destination, favourable weather, scorching temperatures, beautiful beaches and warm turquoise waters, make for the perfect mix and there are a wide range of great deals available now for summer 2013.

Picture: krembo1

Singapore: Sling some cocktails...

Singapore is located just north of the equator and on more than a few days of the year it certainly feels like it. However, July and August see some of the cooler days, if you can call 30 degrees cool.  Being equatorial, of course, means that the climate rarely fluctuates beyond a few degrees. 

The residents of this country, which is made up of 63 islands, live in a society relatively free from crime.  Holidaymakers also testify to the cleanliness of the country where it is forbidden by law to chew gum, let alone spit it on the streets.

Travel

Due to its small size, visitors can easily navigate around the islands.  The MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) and LRS (Light Rail Transit) systems work tirelessly to convey passengers from one destination to another.  Private car ownership is expensive and discouraged by the government, so taxi prices are extremely cheap and tourists can opt for an over-ground rather than underground mode of transportation.

Sightseeing Spots

Little India and Chinatown are favourites, as are Orchard Road, Riverside, Marina Bay and Sentosa.  Orchard Road is the main shopping street; Riverside is the old colonial area and is filled with statues, theatres, restaurants and clubs.  Marina bay is the newest part of the main island and it features shopping malls as well as the Marina Bay Sands Hotel with its distinctive three towers and spectacular boat-like roof.  Sentosa is a separate island and is home to Universal Studios.

Accommodation

Although Marina Bay attracts visitors with a penchant for more luxurious surroundings, backpackers on a tight budget often head for the cheaper areas such as Balestier, Newton or Novena.  Wherever you decide to stay, you will surely enjoy your time in Singapore – especially if you ensure you leave some time at the end of the day for a refreshing cocktail.

Picture courtesy of Small

San Francisco City Guide...

San Francisco is a rolling metropolis of culture and history and is one of the most visited cities in America. The city grew up from the California gold rush that attracted a flood of treasure seekers and fuelled the city’s growth.

A big financial district was built due to the wealth of the gold rush in the mid 1800’s which also helped fund the Port of San Francisco and the Pacific Railroad making the city a centre for trade.

A devastating earthquake hit San Francisco in 1906 destroying nearly 75% of the city. Due to the financial wealth of the area rebuilding started straight away and was completed on a grand scale.

Visitors to San Francisco have a range of historic and modern sights to explore including the formidable Alcatraz Prison, historic tram lines and perhaps the most famous bridge in the world, the Golden Gate Bridge.

Travelling around the city is easy thanks to San Francisco’s public transportation systems, one of the most comprehensive networks in the United States including busses, metro’s, trams and trains.

Eating out is a real experience in San Francisco, must try foods include fresh sea food from the port and sourdough bread.

There are many ways to get to San Francisco including by plane into San Francisco International Airport, by train or bus and ferry, or you can always drive to the city via one of the four major highways.

Picture courtesy of davidyuweb

A glimpse into Spanish culture in Madrid...

Madrid is the place to visit for a taste of the real and rich Spanish culture. Despite its modern face and infrastructure, Madrid has preserved much of its historic feel and cultural heritage, from siestas to traditional foods and fiestas. Even the ultra modern events will still have some touch of tradition in Madrid. 

Fiestas (festivals) are lively and full of colour. The most notable ones on the Madrid social calendar include the colourful Christmas market at Plaza Mayor, the New Year’s Eve celebrations and the San Isidro fiesta during which residents pay tribute to Madrid’s patron saint every 15th of May.  
   
As with the rest of Spanish culture, Spanish culinary heritage is refined. Tapas is a traditional Spanish meal.  They are appetizers that initially consisted of bread and ham and were eaten while drinking beer. Ham, olives and variations of tapas dishes feature strongly in Spanish food.

With their generally relaxed approach to life, Spaniards love their siesta. Many cafes are usually full at this time as the patrons take a break from their schedules for a couple of hours in the afternoons.

Art is also an important part of Spanish culture. The works of master artists including Pablo Picasso, Kadinsky, Dali and Miro are on display at the Reina Sofia Museum. At the Prado, there are famous artworks by El Greco, Goya and many other artists.  

For shopping, visit Madrid’s biggest flea market, the El Rastro. This is held every Sunday morning regardless of the weather; the market sells antiques, crafts, second-hand objects and many other unique items at bargain prices.

If you happen to be in Madrid during the bullfighting season, you can witness the Spanish tradition at the Plaza de las Ventas. Alternatively you can visit the Museo Taurino (the bullfighting museum) and learn everything about bullfighting including its history, costumes and evolution.

Morocco Travel Guide...

Gateway to the mysteries of North Africa and only just beyond the borders of Europe across the narrow Straits of Gibraltar; from the heat of the Saharan dunes to the icy peaks of the High Atlas Mountains; from the Kasbah to the desert oases; Morocco can be a challenge, as the vastly differing cultures and traditions of Europe and Africa collide and frequently fuse in the quest to attract tourists.

Walled cities and narrow streets

A well-planned visit to Morocco should provide a unique experience, one full of surprises. The ancient Medinas; for example, are typically walled areas of cities, with narrow streets, usually devoid of vehicular traffic. The Medina in Fes has its roots in the Middle Ages and is the largest in the world completely devoid of cars.

Contrasting lifestyles

Morocco is a very beautiful country. In the cities there are some remarkable markets, restaurants and nightclubs.

Moroccans, particularly the nomadic tribes, in common with other peoples in this part of the world, continue to present an almost unbelievable image of traditional robes and turbans, contrasting with mobile ‘phones, TV dishes and all the trappings of modern life.

Getting there

Regular flights operate from many of the UK’s major airports.

In the shadows of kings and mountains...

With the warm Indian Ocean on one side and the rugged peaks of the Drakensberg on the other, what was once the Kingdom of the Zulus is now one of South Africa’s most multi-cultural provinces; welcome to Kwazulu-Natal. Lush, tropical vegetation and expansive beaches make Kwazulu one of South Africa’s most popular holiday destinations with domestic tourists. Today, it is also being discovered by travellers from much further afield. 

East meets west meets Africa

Most visitors start their explorations in Durban, the beating cultural heart of Kwazulu and Africa’s busiest port. Visit Ushaka Marine World and the waterfront, browse at vibrant local shops in Grey Street and the Warwick Triangle or pick up traditional artwork at beachfront stalls. Durban is alive with Zulu tradition, yet home to a thriving Indian community, an intoxicating fusion of east, west and Africa. Walk in the footsteps of legendary Zulu kings and Mahatma Gandhi. 

A magnet for nature lovers and thrill seekers

The Indian Ocean puts on an impressive performance with a cast of billions. The South Coast hosts the annual sardine run, when shoals more than seven kilometres long migrate northwards, provoking a feeding frenzy among birds, sharks and other predators. On the North Coast, visitors can watch dolphins frolic in shallow waters or follow seasonal whale migrations. Those who tire easily of golden beaches can go hang-gliding, golfing or mountain biking.

Still further north is the Elephant Coast, where nature reserves host Africa’s big five, lion, leopard, Cape buffalo, elephant and black rhino. The two best-known sanctuaries are the Greater St Lucia Wetland Park and Hluhluwe Game Reserve.

Getting to the gateway city

Touch down at King Shaka International Airport in Durban, the gateway to Kwazulu or chug along at a more leisurely pace by train. Spoornet operates daily intercity trains to and from Johannesburg and Pietermaritzburg.

Summer Clubbers Guide...

A rite of passage for many teenagers is their first holiday alone without their parents. Many head to the party islands of Ibiza, Magaluf and Ayia Nappa. It’s a good time for kids to let lose but also a great time to grow up, well sort of as they gain some independence.

Many of the top party resorts offer some of the best clubs and bars, ready to make your holiday one big party. World class DJ’s and top bands head out to the sunny isles every summer, starting end of May/ beginning of June through to September.

Ibiza

Ibiza is known as the world’s party capital, it has fantastic beaches, amazing bars and world class clubs. The main party hot spots in Ibiza are; San Antonio and Playa D’en Bossa, this is where you will find the majority of the big night clubs.

There are seven major clubs in Ibiza; Amnesia, DC10, Eden, Es Paradis, Pacha, Privilege and Space. During the summer months the world’s top DJ’s take residence in the big clubs in Ibiza. The likes of David Guetta who takes up residence in Pacha and Ushuaia, Tiesto and Carl Cox who are big names which feature for nights at many of the big clubs.

As well as clubs there are plenty of bars to choose from, such as Bora Bora, on the beach in Playa D’en Bossa or Café Mambo in San Antonio.

Magaluf

Magaluf on the island of Majorca is one hot party hotspot. This nonstop party destination has everything from night clubs to bars and beach parties.

Right on the doorstep of many hotels you have the world famous BCM Club, The 5 MCP Clubs and The Office Club. The bars and clubs are all within walking distance of each other, perfect for night on a bar crawl. Music features heavily during the summer with artists landing on the island of Majorca such as Jessie J and Rizzle Kicks.

There are plenty of beach activities to keep you busy during the day, before you head out partying on an evening and into the early hours of the morning.

Ayia Nappa

On the far eastern end of the southern coast of Cyprus is the party capital of the island, Ayia Napa. Having grown into a big party resort over the past few years it’s a popular stop for young Brits who want to party and have fun as well as enjoy scorching temperatures.

Ayia Napa is perfect for all music lovers, no matter what your taste there are plenty of venues to suit. DJ’s come from all over the world over summer to play to pack clubs, bars and beaches! Some of the major clubs which have fantastic party nights are; Black and White, Castle Club, Starskys and Club Ice.

A guide to Cape Town...

The city of Cape Town stands on the northern part of the Cape Peninsula in South Africa, offering a breath-taking view of Table Mountain. When it gets cloudy, thin sheets of clouds sometimes form at the peak of the Table Mountain, which the locals have nicknamed as a ‘tablecloth.’ The rocky mountainous terrain surrounding the city also includes Devil’s Peak, the Twelve Apostles and the Lion’s Head Mountain.
 
Cape Town is an increasingly popular holiday destination with plenty of fun activities on offer.

Discover the beauty of the South African coastline with its sandy beaches at Clifton, Bloubergstrand and Camp’s Bay or visit the famous Kirstenbosch botanical gardens. Take a driving tour of the rocky cliffs and enjoy a breath-taking view of the ocean and coastline from Chapman’s Peak or from the top of Table Mountain. 

A trip to Cape Town is not complete without a visit to Robben Island. The island’s infamous maximum security prison which housed Nelson Mandela for 18 years, is seen as a symbol of the struggle for South Africa’s freedom from apartheid rule. Robben Island was made a World Heritage Site in 1999.

Cape Town also produces fine wines from its large expanses of fertile vineyards. About half an hour’s drive from Cape Town, the picturesque Cape Winelands offer wine tasting tours in more than 200 vineyards. While there, you can also explore the numerous gourmet restaurants and patisseries at Franschhoek.

If you wish to go on safari, fly to the world famous Kruger National Park, the largest game reserve in South Africa that is home to the big five and the romantic Ngala Safari Lodge and tented camp.

Diving in Antigua...

With its extraordinary sea life and transparent water, the Caribbean is an ideal location for diving and exploring the underwater world.  Scuba divers from all over the globe regularly take Caribbean holidays to enjoy the amazing opportunities the islands can offer.  Whether you’re an experienced diver or a complete beginner, scuba diving is a brilliant activity to try in the warm waters of the Caribbean.

Antigua holidays can include scuba diving lessons.  Although not renowned for its diving, the island has some stunning spots to explore, and there are excellent schools available that teach visitors the skills they will need underwater. 

Beginners as well as those who are on luxury family holidays usually head for Cades Reef.  This shallow reef is a great place to learn the skills of scuba diving, as it is teeming with a variety of marine life.  Divers will share the waters with everything from eels and turtles to small, harmless sharks. 

For those who are more experienced, the Pillars of Hercules near English Harbour offers a great experience.  The rock formation appears at its best when viewed from the waters in the evening, as the sun lights the rock surfaces a beautiful golden colour while it sets.  The area is home to vibrant corals and all kinds of colourful fish.

Deep Bay is another site of interest for scuba divers in Antigua.  The area marks the final resting place of a freightliner called the Andes that sank over 100 years ago.  The wreck still lies on the bottom of the bay, and divers can explore it with ease during their luxury holidays.