Latest EUROPE TOUR & TRAVELS Articles

Switzerland trip – Best part of my life

Tue, 07 Sep 2010 11:16:27 +0530

Thank God for squirrels and their many not-so-familiar cousins. They helped me disguise near fatigue as I struggled to keep pace with elderly companions, who, much to my embarrassment, hopped, skipped and breezed up the ascent to the ruins of a church that overlooked the village of Andeer, about 90 minutes from Zurich by my car rental in Switzerland. I, for my part, distracted them with squeals and joyful exclamations at the so-called sightings. As you may have guessed, this fave me enough time to nurse a wounded self-esteem while the unsuspecting group scanned thickets, bushes and foliages for signs of rodent life. And as we resumed walking, led by a sprightly Scarlett Hampl from Switzerland Tourism, I rummaged through my mind trying to recall more names of animals and birds that one finds in the canton of Graubunden. Do I need to add that the motive considered a ‘pleasant, afternoon mountain walk’?

There was, however, no escaping mountains and strenuous exercise of my slothful limbs in Graubunden, the country’s biggest canton. Not even when I was the only one, out of a group of 10, to have opted for leisure programmed. And it took me just half a day to realize how different Swiss leisure is from my sensibilities. Droves of chubby-cheeked children greeted me with smile as I panted my way up a mountain trail. And the carnival of happy faces grew as I climbed further. Farmers, mountain walkers and church-going villagers blended in beautifully with the mellow, fluid charm of the Swiss countryside. Delicate purple, yellow and crimson blooms on grassy knolls swayed rhythmically to a flirtatious breeze while the dong of cowbells conveyed the prospect of witnessing every spectacle I’d grow to associate with the glorious Swiss summer. If only I could experience all this without the hard work in demanded. But then there were squirrels and a sinful ham sandwich to make the going a bit easy.

Resting on boulders in a meadow – with juicy slivers of ham and a gooey Mars bar to keep my mouth busy – I took in an eyeful of the landscape we’d driven into that morning. A bright yellow Post Bus had dropped us at the accommodation in Andeer. As I struggled, yet again, to read the hotel brochure in German, the friendly bespectacled manager pointed out at a couple of words I immediately deciphered. Karl Marx, I read. The German philosopher was among the first few patrons of this 180-year-old hotel. While no one could tell which room he lived in, I was happy that I had made a kind of Communist pilgrimage. Something that I could write back home to my Kolkata ‘Comrades’. And before I could succumb to the capital lure of hot batch, Scarlett whipped me into action. Only I bear to be caught dead in a bathtub on a sunny day? That too in Switzerland… when the Alps looked as clear and close as the neighborhood bakery?

Get away from it all with a hotel break in Surrey

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 18:27:21 +0530

Its location, landscape, heritage and facilities all combine to make Surrey a much visited destination in the south east of England. You can really have the best of both worlds when visiting Surrey. On one side there’s the rolling Surrey hills which is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty with Leith Hill being the highest point in the south of England and the National Trust own no less than 10 properties in Surrey set in their usual spectacular surroundings, a gardener’s paradise. On the other side, should you need to be get to the centre of London, transport links and shear close proximity make Surrey the ideal base.

Weybridge is particularly well situated for visiting the capital when staying in Surrey. Weybridge has all the facilities you would expect from great shops and restaurants to what it is most famous for and that is home to the Brooklands motor racing circuit. The Brooklands motor racing circuit opened in 1907. It made history as it was the first ever purpose built motor race circuit that was banked in the world. In Britain motorists were restricted to a 20mph speed limit and Brooklands was so popular due to the high speeds that could be reached. Sadly the last race was in 1939. Fortunately, this historical motor racing site has been developed in recent years and it now home to many large retail and car companies and most recently, a state of art hotel. Keeping the heritage of this quite unique former motor racing site has been high on the agenda for the new Brooklands hotel. From the original Brooklands racetrack which rolls out before you in riven quartz and honed granite, to the glittering 1930s inspired honeycomb pendants that greet the guests upon check-in. For Brooklands fans, the knowing nod to the legacy of the race circuit that surrounds and runs through the hotel is great to see. If a stay at the hotel isn’t enough then there’s the Brooklands Museum which not only exhibits cars and motorcycles but also aircraft.

Surrey hotels come in forms to suit everyone from country house to state of the art with spas and modern architecture. Even business travellers must think staying in a hotel in Surrey isn’t really a hardship! Even though towns like Weybridge have the following statistics, located just five minutes from the M25 motorway, thirty minutes from central London, seventeen miles from Heathrow and thirty three miles from Gatwick, Weybridge and Surrey feel a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of the capital.

So, it’s not hard to see the appeal of Surrey and to see why this beautiful county will continue to attract thousands of visitors each year. The popularity of the “staycation” over the past 2 years hasn’t just been attributed to family summer holidays. With the cost of air fares rising, poor exchange rate and tightening purse strings, going on weekend city breaks abroad are also in decline. A weekend away in a Surrey hotel is cheaper with far less travelling time but most of all the enjoyment of a varied landscape and complete relaxation.

Enjoy Winter Holidays in Austria

Sat, 28 Aug 2010 11:28:46 +0530

Are you planning for winter holidays in Europe? Consider Austria, one of the great winter holiday destinations in Europe. There are number of reasons that attract visitors from all around the world to visit this amazing country. If you love skiing and other winter sports or like to hear classical music, Austria has to offers all. Tourists get attracted to magnificent hiking trails and natural beauty of the country. The spa hotels and resorts, such as the Saalbach, Rogner Bad Blumau, St. Anton, etc. offers tourists not only great accommodations, but a paradise type of experience where they can relax, relieve stress, and recharge for the long overhaul ahead.

Austria is one of the most popular countries having a rich and dramatic history which is geographically surrounded by Snow Mountains. You will find this a beautiful and historical places to visit as there are gorgeous lakes, medieval fortresses, castles, churches, etc that are covered with hills and soaring mountains. Austria is also popular amongst music lovers as there are large numbers of concerts taking place every year. Austria is home of many poets, singers and musicians.

There are number of places you can visit in Austria. For your Austria Tours requirements, visit Tempo Holidays, a leading Australian Travel Agent. Some of the top attractions of Austria are:

1. Hofburg Imperial Palace

Built during 13th century, the Hofburg Imperial Palace was built; still today it has the same charm and stands as a testament to the power and wealth of the mighty political family. You can find the office of President of Austria, International Convention Center, the famous Spanish Riding School and its Lipizzan stallions in this palace. You can visit a museum which is open for public.

2. Vienna

Vienna is one of the greatest and most historic cities in Western Europe. Vienna has lots of things to offer like Art and Culture, Sports and Relaxation, Pleasure and Recreation. Vienna is popular for many old buildings, churches, etc. Vienna is also famous for classical music and opera. It is birthplace of Austria's most famous rulers and some of the most famous composers of classical music.

3. Salzburg

Salzburg is well known as “City of Churches” due to number of churches that were built here. In fact, it is also named as the Rome of the North because of this. It is fourth largest urban area of Austria. Salzburg is also known for its old streets, festivals, the Mirabell Palace, the hohensalzburg Fortress and the Mozarteum.

4. Grossglockner Alpine Road

The Grossglockner alpine road is one of the most visited alpine roads in the continent. It ends in the highest mountain in Austria where its largest glacier is also located. In fact, since the mid 1930's, this famous road has been visited by over 50 million people eager to see its spectacular views.

5. Innsbruck

Innsbruck is well known as a vacation destination during winter, but it also attracts many tourists during summer as well. The winter Olympics were hosted here twice and it will also host young Olympics in 2012.This place is situated between two imposing mountainsides, so ideal for winter sports such as snowboarding and skiing. Not only that, Innsbruck is also a popular tourist destination even in the summer months because it is ideal for mountaineering and ecotourism.

6. Eisriesenwelt Caves

The Eisriesenwelt caves showcase extraordinary rock and ice formations, majestic towers and columns and even an underground glacier and waterfall. It was discovered sometime during the late 1870's by Anton Posselt and since then has attracted thousands of tourists from all around the world. Today, it is considered as one of the largest ice cave in the world.

7. Carnutinum Archaeological Museum

Carnutinum was once the most important of Roman towns in the Alps. It was founded sometime during the 6th century AD and has seen about 5000 inhabitants under the Roman Empire. Today, this town houses the largest collection of Roman artifacts ranging from Roman jewelry, roman arms and coins, landmarks such as amphitheatres and baths as well as other religious objects from the Roman religion of Mithras worship.

8. Graz

The Graz is perhaps the most famous center for culture, architecture and art. In fact, it was been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of the historical value of the place. Here, tourists will also get to experience the vibrant nightlife that Gratz is well known for.

9. The Museum of the Future

The Museum of the Future is called the Ars Electronica. This museum is also well known for its stunning collection of modern technology. As such, this has become a tourist spot.

10. Hohe Tauern National Park

One of the last natural wilderness areas in Europe, this park is well known for its flora and fauna. Here you can nice wild life, like Mountain goats, ibex, chamois, a wide variety of birds, sheep, etc. Here you can enjoy nature at its best with your loved ones.

Tour de France

Sat, 21 Aug 2010 10:20:32 +0530

Highly original, truly unique

The grand event, hosted at the most coveted address in Paris. The Elysee Palace ended beautiful with a spectacular firework display at the Tower Eiffel. The reason: It was the 120th anniversary of the world’s most photographed monument. What’s more, the fireworks matched its glory. Incidentally, July is also month when the Tour de France ends at the Place de la Concord with all bikers racing on the Champs Elysee. A host of surprises welcomed us as we joined the crowds to welcome the enthusiastic sportsmen. The buzz was amazing; everyone had a speedy disposition and a big grin. The racers rode at the speed of the escort cars and it was difficult to click a good picture. Everyone from little children to aged men Veronique Quefflec , Pinazo and Beri at the La Fermette Marbeuf

Gastronomical delights

La Fermette Marbeuf, the historical French Restaurant which opened its doors in 1900, is a real gem. Situated in the heart of the Triangle d’Or at 5 Rue Marbeuf, its authentic French interiors overwhelmed us. The refinement of Parisian aesthetics was obvious as soon as we walked in to the restaurant. It is an artistic marvel, dominated by gilded mirrors, lacquered surfaces, frescoes and statues including massive chandeliers on gold leaf painted ceilings.

For dinner, Chef Jerome served us gourmet delights that included melt-in-the-mouth appetizers, must-for-the-occasion champagne and different courses that were complemented by suitable wines. Unforgettable degustation options, the best of the typical French favorites like escargot and foie gras, creative dishes like sautéed langoustine in citrus oil braised turbot with truffles made for a royal feast. The Grand Marnier Souffle was the piece de resistance. It perfectly served as the meeting point of absolute glamour and aristocratic fine dining. It was just too French!

Art Junction

The grand opening of the Madame Vionnet exhibition at the decorative Arts Museum of Paris at the Louvre was pure nostalgia. Comparisons were drawn to how contemporary her style was. The hall was jam-packed with celebrities like Naomi Campbell and Charlize Theron to name a few. We also spotted Christina Aguilera who made a brief entry with beau and three bodyguards in tow. It was, we felt, the perfect tribute to quintessential style. Like any trip, France car rentalservice will help you to explore more places nearby Paris.

Shop till you drop

A trip to Paris without a visit to the unique Parisian flea markets is incomplete. Also known as the Puces de Saint-Quen or Clignancourt , north of Montmartre, this is the city’s ( some claim the world’s ) largest and the most famous flea market, offering everything from Louis XVI Furniture , precious antique jeweler , famous book collections , wines and all kinds of collectibles. If you are far away from north of Paris, you must hire car in Paris to reach this market.

Paris is always an exceptional experience of varied senses, a personal welcome and one leaves the city feeling it is never enough.

Madrid, welcome to financial and tourist capital

Wed, 18 Aug 2010 17:11:31 +0530

The capital city of Spain is an amazing place to be with your family. We visited the incredible city of Madrid in the spring season. The journey was a bit delayed at Barajas Airport which is one of the busiest airports in the world. The hotel was situated in the heart of Madrid in close proximity to the famous attractions and restaurants. We had opted for the conducted tour rather than visiting the country’s political and cultural capital. The major landmarks of the city are the Royal Palace of Madrid; the Teatro Real; the Buen Retiro Park; the National Library; an archaeological museum.

Madrid is ubiquitous and hosts the famous bull-fights the largest Plaza de Toros in Spain.
Madrid is also the home of Real Madrid, one of the biggest and most successful football clubs in the world. The visit to the enormous stadium was exhilarating.
The cultural vitality and entertainment of Madrid made our trip unforgettable. The amicable locals were so pleasing that it was really hard when we were leaving the city.

Hotel Ritz Madrid
The whole lot in the impressive restaurant was astonishing and ideal. Right from the beginning when we reached the hotel the staff members were there to greet us and take the luggage. The check-in was immediate and one of the staff members along with his junior accompanied us to our suite. When the doors of the Royal suite were opened we were anxious to see the brilliant interiors of the suite. An exquisite king-size bed with spectacular furnishings like sparkling crystal chandelier, valuable antiques and a fine oriental Ming Dynasty vase to provide a soothing atmosphere. The hotel fondles the children as well and offers a range of amenities just for children including children’s bathrobes, interconnecting rooms and a cartoon DVD library. We indulged ourselves into the Spanish Tapas and exquisite cuisine served at the hotel. It was an implausible and memorable experience at this luxury hotel.
The stay at the well-known hotel Inter-Continental Madrid in Castellana was fun-filled. The entrance hall of the landmark 5-star hotel was so hospitable right in the heart of Madrid. The hotel is in close proximity to the main attractions, shopping places, restaurants and imperative night-life. The hotel has the newest technological amenities and is an ideal place for both business and leisure travelers. Our suite decorated in classic st

Car Hire Ibiza

Tue, 17 Aug 2010 18:26:17 +0530

Ibiza is an island paradise located 79 km off the Valencia coast in Spain.

Best known for its thriving party scene, Ibiza has come to be a favorite among travelers looking for an authentic Mediterranean experience.

Low cost holiday villas, generous sunshine, cheap car hire and an abundance of beaches make Ibiza the perfect destination for your next holiday.

Fall in love with Ibiza, Spain

Discover the island's white sandy beaches, rocky coves and dramatic cliffs, dense forests, olive groves and rolling countryside – you’ll never want to leave.

The real Ibiza can be found in its charming villages, rustic farmhouses and whitewashed buildings which glitter in the sun.

You’ll want to make the most of Ibiza’s famous sunsets, and immersing yourself in the local way of life will make sure you do.

Places to visit in Ibiza

Renting a car in Ibiza gives you the best chance to experience Ibiza, and at your own pace.

Perhaps one of the most popular tourist spots is the Caves of C'an Marca, overlooking Port de San Miguel. Over 100,000 years old, the caves’ visiting hours last until sunset.

Meanwhile, the rocky Murada Island just off Ibiza is a place where you can experience views of the Bay of Puerto San Miguel like nowhere else.

Deeper inland are the San Carlos markets which stay true to local tradition. You can be part of the markets’ color and chaos on any Saturday all year round.

Get active in Ibiza

A holiday is Ibiza gives you the chance to improve your health and wellbeing.

The island boasts some of the most scenic golf courses and tennis courts you’ll find in Europe. While water sports like sailing, water skiing, parasailing, wind surfing and jet skiing offer endless amounts of fun in the sea.

It’s time to let loose

It would be remiss of us to not to mention Ibiza’s vibrant nightlife.
At night, explore Ibiza’s city streets for nightclubs and clubs you’ll want to dance the night away.

A few of our favorites are San Antonio’s Cafe del Mar or Cafe Mambo, which offer terrace views and music to wind down to.

Vibrant and beautiful

Ibiza is great – day or night. You’ll wish you could stay forever.

And why not! Simply search for car hire Spain to make the most of your visit to Ibiza.

Unlock every part of Ibiza. We have the best selection of car hire rates form Ibiza Airport.

Vacanza In Castello Toscana

Wed, 11 Aug 2010 15:40:24 +0530

La maggior parte di ville in Toscana si trovano a più bel posto e le posizioni che ti servono punti di vista dell'occhio orecchiabile. Le nostre ville di lusso anche della vasta gamma di servizi che si aspetta da uno hotel esclusivo, including piscine swimming private, palestre indoor, contemporary design tradizionale or, and entertainment apparecchiature casa. Con tutte le cose che si possono godere in più belle vacanza in castello Toscana l'esperienza che avete sognato.

Le nostre ville in affitto a Toscana vi offre la piena libertà di godersi le vacanze in tutta tranquillità. È inoltre possibile ottenere qualsiasi tipo di aiuto per il nuovo posto, i ristoranti, cucinare, ecc ... La maggior parte delle ville sono ereditate dei servizi più moderni come la lavatrice, lavastoviglie, a livello centrale / c, bagno con doccia e tizi, cucina con forno, forno a microonde , frigo ecc ...

Ora giorni è possibile trovare diversi tipi di opzioni di alloggio in Italia largo. Dalla famiglia Posarelli Villas è possibile ottenere appartamenti, ville,

Per ulteriori informazioni è possibile contattarci per le ville di lusso a noleggio in tutta Italia.

Travel world’s top tourist destination, London – Best of Britain

Fri, 23 Jul 2010 06:58:06 +0530

There is nothing more enchanting than the lure of a fair weathered European holiday replete with lush green landscapes, plentiful history and action packed hikes and trails to walk. Amongst the charming location s of the fashion rich idyllic continent, London is a must do destination to start the Europe bug. One of the most indulgent locations, London has a sizable variety of the things to do and keep the holiday far from passive. The weather naturally is a boon for those who like to explore on foot.

London is home to a charming milieu of culture and history. It is a fantastic fusion of theatre, music, art, significant historical references and landscapes. To acquaint yourself to any city, its the best to set out on foot! The mighty Thames River makes a perfect background to walk and explore some quaint restaurants by the river.

Londoners certainly love beer, fish and chips! It’s mandatory to head to the quaint pubs of London to get a test of some wonderful dark beer. A lot of these drinking holes have some marvelous history attached to them The Freemasons Arms, Blind Beggar and The Dukes Head are some to look out for.

London is enjoyable place from north to south, from east to west and central. You will enjoy the art and architecture of the bygone. Buckingham Palace, Trafalgar Square, Big Ben, London Eye, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Windsor Castle, Westminster Abbey and Madam Tussads are must to go places which are most famous travelling hot spots of London. For most of the places, you can easily get connecting bus and underground tubes which will add excitement in your journey. It is also advisable not to hire expensive guides, as can just get a car hire in London and get information by simple asking.

London is also popular as Education hub and number of students across the world comes here for studies. London is home to many famous institutes like London Business School, London School of Economics and the King’s College. Get someone to make you walk to this prestigious colleges and university which haven’t left their charm.

London has got so many things that requires great amount of time, even months becomes less when you go for London Holiday Tour. There are great shops, art galleries, palaces, historic buildings, theatres, music shows, architectural delights and many more things that make London most popular in the world. The best time to visit London is May to July. During this period of time the weather stays warm, you will get a chance to see number of activities in Parks, Streets and the town. Summer is the best time to visit London unless you are planning for Europe tour to enjoy snowy glory.

ANTALYA AND THE MEDITERRANEAN REGION

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 19:31:14 +0530

Sun, sea, sand, balmy temperatures, an award winning marina, the majestic Bey Mountain, the historic Kaleici quarter, beautiful-preserved Ottoman architecture, fascinating Roman ruins, fine restaurants, luxurious hotels, and impressive museums will all vie for your attention here.

The city’s central landmark is the Yivli Minare (Fluted Minaret) which stands near the main square, Kale Kapisi (Fortress Gate). The ancient City Walls of Antalya, beautifully lit up at night, are home to the Saat Kulesi (Clock Tower) and Hadrianus Kapisi (Hadrian’s Gate), a three-arched ornamental gate with its winding lanes and old wooden houses, at the heart of the city. This ancient historical quarter stands testament to the fact that Antalya has embraced many civilizations over the centuries. Now declared a protected historical zone to prevent further development, Kaleici’s beautiful old Ottoman-style buildings include Tekeli Mehmet Pasa Camii, Kesuk Minare and Hidirlik Kalesi.

The Antalya Museum, founded in 1919, houses one of the most important archaeological collections in the country. Other interesting museums in Antalya are the Ataturk Museum and the Suna & Inan Kirac Kaleici Museum. The Antalya Kaleci Marina and Leisure Centre has been feted as one of the prettiest marinas in Turkey and is a great place to relax and watch the world go by – there are wonderful little shops, cates, restaurants and yachting facilities. Antalya is also famous for its Golden Orange Film Festival usually held in September and October.

You don’t have to venture too far to experience Antalya’s unparalleled wealth of natural beauty. Just a few kilometers away from the city are the cascading Upper Duden Waterfalls, the dramatic Lower Duden Waterfalls which plunge straight into the sea, the Kursunlu Waterfalls and the tranquil Nilufer Lake. The pristine Lara Beach, Topcam Beach and Konyaalti Beach are popular with sun-worshippers, while Saklikent on the northern slopes of Bakirli Mountain offers some fabulous skiing. Other interesting places to visit include the Karain Cave, the sites of the oldest Turkish settlement dating back to the Palaeolithic Age, the wildlife-rich Duzlercami Park and the amazing 115-metre deep Guver Canyon.

Also in close proximity to Antalya and well worth a visit, are a multitude of fascinating historical cities set in olive groves, pine forests and palm plantations. Perge, Aspendos, side, Termessos, Selge, Phaselis, Olympos, Chimeira, Kekova, Simena , Patara, Xantos, Letoon, Pinara, Tlos, Kas, Kalkam, Aperlai, Myra and Sillyon all hark back to the glorious past of the Turkish Riviera. Explore many more attractions in the hinterland with car rental Antalya services.

The ancient city of Myra with its splendid Roman theatre had none other than St. Nicholas ( or Santa Claus ) as its mayor in the fourth century B.C. Visitors still flock here at Christmas for the St. Nicholas Commemoration Ceremony. Close by is Kas, a popular mountain-ringed seaside town strewn with Lycian rock tombs. Don’t miss the historical city of the Aspendos where you can see the well-preserved Aspendos Theatre and the remains of an ancient basilica, agora and aqueduct; and Perge with its ancient agora, its theatre with carved marble relief’s, its colonnaded road, and its grand city gate lofty towers.

Hatay, located in the southernmost part of the Mediterranean region, also lures travelers. The famous Hatay Archaeology Museum showcases one of the most fabulous collections of Roman mosaics in the world. Steeped in history, these rich mosaics were excavated both in Hatay and the nearby town of Daphne. Don’t miss the beautiful Oceanus and Thetis Mosaic and the Buffet Mosaic.

Tee Off!!
Belek, 40 km from Antalya, is a great vacation option for golf aficionados, so don’t forget to pack your clubs and irons for your Turkish holiday! Car Hire Turkey will help you to visit places like Belek very easily. There are a variety of world-class 18-hole and 9-hole golf courses in Belek for you to choose from.

Car Hire at Malaga Airport: The Best Way to Get Around in Malaga

Sat, 17 Jul 2010 11:42:24 +0530

Car Hire at Malaga Airport: The Best Way to Get Around in Malaga

Malaga in Spain remains on the top of holiday destinations for tourists from North Europe and especially Britain. The warm climate of the Mediterranean, the beaches of the Costa del Sol and the famous golf courses are just some of the things that attract tourists from all over to this Spanish city. The historic city has several ancient fortresses, many interesting museums that are a must-see. Not to mention its famed nightlife with several bars, Irish pubs, discos. The cultural scene is also full of Fiestas, Flamenco performances all year round.

Malaga car hire is the best way to get around in Malaga- with so much to do and see, you need freedom and time to enjoy everything at own convenience. It is much more convenient than public transportation with which you would need to plan your trips according to its schedule. Its also helpful if you are on a golf holiday. You can book a large car to accommodate all your golf gear and go golfing on the famous Costa del Sol courses. It is so much easier to hire a car at Malaga Airport and embark on your private holiday!

There are several companies offering cheap car hire right at Malaga airport. Apart from the international car hire companies, there are many local car hire operators offering equally good services at good prices. Local car hire companies also offer more personalized and prompt services. Companies in the city will arrange to pick you up at the airport and drop you back off at the end of your vacation. You can pick a car hire service based on your own holiday plans. It’s always better to book well in advance to avail of special low prices. The high season prices are higher. More importantly, it’s difficult to find a car of your choice in the busy season.
The best way to find good deals on your Malaga car hire is by comparing prices and services online. For cheap car hire in Malaga, these are some of the things to remember:

1. Price: All companies advertise the lowest price, but check the fine print. Some companies give a base price for the car and charge extra for things like unlimited mileage, insurance, airport taxes, roadside assistance and a second driver. Other companies include these things in one price. Be sure you know what is included.

2. Extras: It is important to get a car with air conditioning- the summer months in Malaga are warm and an A/ C car is necessary. Companies also offer GPS devices in your car if you wish.

3. Child seat: If you are travelling with children, make sure to reserve a child seat with your car fitting your child’s weight and height. The child seat has to be booked separately. Child safety seats are the law in Spain.

4. Choose your car wisely: When making the reservation, consider what size vehicle you will need and any luxuries you want to be included. If you are travelling with the family, you will want a larger vehicle while a couple would be fine with an economy size car. With an economy car, you will also save on the fuel costs.

5. Its advisable and convenient to pick up and return the vehicle at the airport. In most cases, you will not save money by choosing a car hire company near you and, by choosing a car hire company at the airport, you will not have to rely on a company providing transportation to and from the airport.

Planning a holiday to Malaga? Get more information and tips on how to save on your car hire at Malaga Airport or write to
info@dragoncars.com

Information to explore nearby Alicante cities with short 3 day trip from Alicante - Spain.

Wed, 14 Jul 2010 14:45:58 +0530

3 day trips from Alicante, Spain

Gandia

Gandia is located on the Costa del Azahar, 96 km from north of Alicante and is one of the largest coastal towns in Spain. Each year millions of tourists flock to its long sandy beaches.

Gandia is divided in two distinct zones. One is Gandia city which has all the historical monuments, shopping and commercial activities. The other is Gandia beach, where bars, nightclubs, apartments and summer residences can be found.

Nightlife does not begin until well after midnight – a normal occurrence in Spain. The beach and town are located within 2 km of each other, separating days on the sand with tapas at the bar.

Villajoyosa

Villajoyosa is the historical and administrative capital of the comarca region. It is located 32 km from the Alicante city in the coastal are – Costa Blanca.

Villajoyosa means Joyful Village, although the inhabitants often abbreviate it to La Vila. It has over three kilometers of beaches, including La Platja Centre, close to the city centre.

Villajoyosa is known as Chocolate City with the most popular tourist attractions Gothic Catholic church. Royal Palm Casino is also popular destination as voted by tourists.

Festival of Moros Cristianos declared as an International Tourist Interest Festival is famous festival of Villajoyosa.

Moraira

Moraira is a small coastal town part of Teulada located at 80 km north of Alicante City.

Moraira is especially known as the most unspoilt resorts on the Costa Blanca.

The town is seen as a gastronomic destination. On December 11 of every year, restaurants organize an event all together with the city a Gourmet week with international chefs, show cooking etc.

Moraira is also famous for its finest beaches along the Costa Blanca. La Cala is a small rocky beach with crystal clear water. El Portet is a shallow beach and famous among children and last but not least Playa D’ Ampolla which is largest and most popular golden sandy beach in Moraira.

If you are on holiday in Alicante and want to explore the rest of Spain, we recommend you hire car Alicante . Spain car rental companies provide plenty of choice when it comes to cars, prices and collection points.

France car hire: Step outside Paris

Tue, 13 Jul 2010 13:20:47 +0530

For many, the color and chaos of France’s capital city can wear off just as quickly as it takes to fall in love with Paris itself.

Sure the Eiffel tower, bars and restaurants, cobble stone streets and French boutiques are everything people say they are; but there comes a time for every traveler to realize much of France’s beauty lies outside the city of Paris.

The best way of unearthing the treasures of France is to escape via car hire Paris .

Some car hire, France tips

• The minimum age to hire a car in France is 21.

• Listed drivers must hold a valid national or international driver’s license, which they must carry with them at all times.

• In France, you drive on the right.

• Seatbelts are mandatory for front and back seat passengers.

• Most autoroutes are toll roads.

• The speed limit within villages and cities in generally 50 KPH unless signed otherwise.

• Street signs within cities can be hard to motorists to read.

• Car rental from Paris Airport incurs an airport levy. If you aren’t looking for the convenience of airport car rental, you are best to collect and return your vehicle from any of the off-airport, city and suburb locations available.

• Inner city roads are difficult to navigate. Beware of narrow laneways, one-way streets, jaywalking, and traffic congestion. It is not recommended you drive in the central districts of Lyon, Paris and Marseille.

• In France, traffic lights go directly from red to green with no amber interval.

• Take special care while driving on the rural roads of France. You won’t want a hole in the road ruin your trip. Make sure you are covered with zero excess car rental insurance.

• Car rental rates in France are subject to a VAT, which should be included in the final price before you reserve your vehicle.

Webcarhire has all the options you need for car rental in France. Compare our rates today.

Why is Spain a popular place to visit?

Wed, 07 Jul 2010 15:40:22 +0530

The answer is simple –

Spain is a country over flowing with beautiful sights and thrilling things to do. Whether you are on a city break, beach holiday or self drive holiday, you are guaranteed to be enchanted by all that is Spain.

Here are just some of your options: See the famous galleries and museums of Madrid and Barcelona, experience cultural traditions in Valencia or Seville, relax in a resort environment in Alicante or spend your days on the beaches of Costa Del Sol or Costa Blanca.

If you’re unsure what part of Spain your time will be better spent, gives you the freedom to explore as many of Spain’s delights as possible.

Here are the places you’ll want to visit while you drive your car rental around Spain:

History and architecture

Visit the Guggenheim Museum and admire its wonderful exhibitions and architecture. Also, the Moorish palace of Alhambra in Granada is must to visit. Take the time to familiarize yourself with the Parc Guell, designed by the famous Antoni Gaudi. Don’t forget to visit the museum of Salvadore Dali.

Beaches of Spain

San Sebastian, Playa de Las Catedrales in Galicia, Ses Illetes, Formentera, Balaeric Islands, Beaches of Sitges near Barcelona, Nerja, Costa del Sol, Andalusia, La Barrosa, Chiclana de la Frontera in Cádiz, Tarifa in Andalusia, Gandia in Costa Brava are amongst Spain’s most popular beaches. Why not visit each and every one of them?

Only the decision to hire a car in Spain could make this dream a reality.

Local cuisine

In Spain, food ranges from cheese and olives to squid or meat delicacies and are priced accordingly. Eating food out in Spain is often cheap and meals are substantial as they delicious.

One of the most authentic foods to sample in Spain are its tapas. Most bars will serve these all day long with Sangria of course.

This was just a snapshot of the beaches, galleries, museums and other attractions waiting for you to enjoy when you arrive in Spain. If you’re planning to be there over summer, be sure to secure your Spain car hire before you land to avoid disappointment.

Lake District Cottages Close to the Cartmel Peninsular and Morecambe Bay

Mon, 14 Jun 2010 16:29:20 +0530

Wherever you choose to take your Lake District cottages holiday, nowhere is far away. The Lake District National Park is quite a compact area, but with lots of variation crammed in. From gentle valleys, ancient woodland, our huge lakes which reflect the sky and landscape and of course the soaring mountains and craggy fells are all easy to explore, this along with a host of welcoming towns and villages.

The Cartmel Peninsular - The Morecambe Bay – Arnside
Whilst staying in a Lake District Cottage you will know doubt wish to explore the many lakes, mountains, forests and areas of natural beauty. Lakeland has three peninsulas, each jutting out into the Morecambe Bay. Furthest west is Millom, occupied mainly by Black Coombe, a huge outcrop of Skiddaw Slate facing the Irish Sea. Next, separated from Millom by the River Duddon, is the Furness Peninsular, the largest of the three and with its own little island of Walney. Here you will find the ship building town of Barrow, along with the quaint town of Ulverston. Lastly comes the Cartmel Peninsular, pushing its mass of rolling fells and lush meadows out into the sheltered head of the bay. For me this is a perfect location for a Lake District holiday and is becoming ever more popular, with visitors choosing its peace and tranquility, along with the fine villages; this over the more crowded towns and villages such as Ambleside and Bowness Starting roughly from the foot of Windermere, the Cartmel Peninsular is a rural landscape, a patchwork of meadows, criss crossed with quiet country lanes perfect for cycling. As you head towards the coast, you will come to a clutch of little villages. Cartmel is picture perfect, offering lots to entertain, especially noted for its excellent pubs, wine bar and restaurants. Little Cark in Cartmel is the home of Holker Hall, a fine country house which, along with its gardens, is open to the public. Grange Over Sands overlooks the bay with a fine, mile long, Edwardian promenade. West from Grange and you have Leven and Levens Hall. Famed for the topary gardens this is well worth a visit.

Walks - Cycling - The Bay
The bay is magnificent, a view to rival any of those offered by the lakes from Lake District cottages in this area. On a summers day, when the tide is in, it can flat and blue, when out its sands shimmer like a silver mirror. The sun rise is dramatic and come autumn, the harder light picks out the channels and rivers that snake there way out to the sea. One spectacular sight is when the bay fills with early morning mist. The view is a gossamer sea of white, with the dark fells of Arnside rising up in stark contrast - biblical. Now it must be said that nobody should venture out too far onto the sands. They are dangerous, with fast tides and quick sands. However, there are routes across, where from Grange to Arnside there are regular guided crossings lead by Queens Guide, Cedric Robinson. A lifetime fisherman, Cedric knows the ever changing sands and safe paths. The crossing takes up to some four hours, where you will discover the flat expanse is not quite so, where at points you will have to wade across channels, sometimes near chest high deep.

The Coastal Way & The Arnside Bay Shore
West of Grange from your Lake District cottage and you can pick up parts of the coastal way which is well marked on OS maps. However, for me, one of the best walks in the Lake District is to drive - or catch the little train from Grange - around the head of the bay to the Village of Arnside. Like the villages of Cartmel and Grange, this is a little known gem. A fishing and cockling community, it has some good pubs and little shops along with a fine art gallery. From Arnside you simply follow, and keep to the shore line, walking out along the south side of the bay. You can go for miles and miles, sometimes on shimmering sand or pebbles, sometimes up on the cliff paths, with gorse and windswept woodland. With the changing tide and huge vista, this will rival any lake walk. Back at Arnside is a path - indeed you can drive - to the summit of Arnside Knott. A respectable fell, it is a glorious walk on heather and gorse covered limestone rock, with little woods to punctuate the scenery and magnificent views across the bay, with a perfect backdrop of the mountains of central lakes.

Travelling and Touring Around Lake Windermere

Sat, 29 May 2010 12:58:13 +0530

Strangely, Windermere [town] used to be called Winandermere and before that there were actually three small hamlets [Applethwaite, Birththwaite and Heathwaite] which were combined in the 1800's when there was a greater attempt to encourage people to visit the area.

The railway arrived in 1857, making the area much more accessible to visitors and with this demand grew a wealth of Lake District Hotels. The railway still exists today and brings people from all over the world to this special area of the Lake District National Park. As well as being a sustainable way to travel, most of the Windermere hotels are only a short walk from the station, or at worst a five minute taxi ride.

Lake Windermere is well known as England's largest Lake at over 10 miles long and is also the deepest at 65 metres. There are numerous outstanding viewing points within easy reach either by car, or by short walk. Gummer’s Howe is probably the most famous being situated at the south end of Lake Windermere. You can drive most of the way, leaving only a 30 minute walk to marvel at the panoramic views over Lake Windermere and across to Morecambe Bay. To see the Lakes from a different perspective, Arnside Knott rewards those who take this gentle climb with stunning views of the Kent Estuary and Morecambe Bay; simply head for the viewpoint. For a more challenging, but still enjoyable walk for most, take the 2 hour round trip to Brantfell and Post Knott. Take the camera, as there are wonderful views of Windermere, the stunning Langdales and maybe even the Lake District Hotel you’ve chosen. Hope for a clear day and always check the weather forecasts before heading out. Suitable footwear is always important, even on these more leisurely walks.

Around Lake Windermere you’ll find an array of villages and hamlets to enjoy. While the drive will be slow around the twisting back roads, you’ll discover Fell Foot Park [National Trust] where you can enjoy an ice cream and hire a boat; Aquarium of the Lakes and the Lakeside and Haverthwaite railway at Lakeside, both being attractions you can enjoy on a sunny or rainy day; at Graythwaite you can enjoy Graythwaite Hall Gardens, which are particularly impressive in the Spring; head up towards Sawrey and visit ‘Hill Top’, a 17th century farmhouse where Beatrix Potter weaved her lyrical magic. At the north end of Lake Windermere, Ambleside is a Mecca for walking enthusiasts and you can take a lake cruise back to your hotel in Bowness-on-Windermere.

You may have found your loved one recently or decades ago, but one sure fire way to keeps those fires a burning is a visit to the majestic Lake District. Everything one associates with romance is here in great excess. Fantastic Lake District Hotels with plumped pillows and crisp linen; Michelin quality candlelit dining; Hand-holding walks offering splendid panoramas; Spa treatments and massages; Evening cruises down the lake; Cocktails on terraces with fell views; Luxury Picnics with champagne and strawberries.

If the Lake District becomes your world for a short break, then coming over the hill and down into Windermere is the start of an incredible romantic adventure. Book a luxury Windermere hotel, unpack and if the weather is fine take the 3 mile stroll to Orrest Head, starting opposite the TIC. The reward for your hand holding efforts will be as breathtaking as that first kiss. Remember to compare the beauty of the views with that of your partner and you can be sure of another breathtaking kiss, or maybe just a sly smile.

To compensate your partner for the effort, treat them to a hot cappuccino or cocktail back at your hotel in Windermere, then change for the evening’s entertainment. A candlelit dinner on a lake cruise is a wonderful way to charm your companion, while enjoying the many sights around Lake Windermere. Marvel at the lakeside houses and envy those with moorings and motor yachts, but enjoy the smooth jazz of the onboard live band and the amaretto that’s helping the shared indulgent chocolate dessert go down.

Cruises on Lake Windermere

Fri, 28 May 2010 15:24:22 +0530

The 10 nautical miles per hour speed limit was put into force on 29 March 2005. This has been a contentious issue for the residents, users and businesses around the lake with everyone having strong views either for or against the speed limit. At first, it was thought that no waterskiing of any nature would be allowed but through working with the Lake District National Park, waterskiing and wakeboarding etc can still be done at a specialist centre on the Lake.

Lake Windermere is of course quieter now but there are people that are still wanting fun to be had on the lake but in a different form. Lake Windermere now has a privately owned 50 foot Sealine Y50 Flybridge motor yacht that can be hired out for Windermere lake cruises and both private and bespoke charters. This has brought the glitz and glamour back to the lake and is bringing some different clientele to the area.

With such spectacular scenery, Lake Windermere attracts thousands of tourists each yeaar from anglers, to canoeists to yachtsmen and dingy owners. The cruises on Lake Windermere are truely worth a go as the magnificent scenery can be taken in fully. Starting from the south of the lake and Newby Bridge is where you will be.
Continuing up the lake and you pass Cartmel Fell, Far Sawrey, Bowness-on-Windermere, High Wray and the lake comes to an end at Waterhead, only a short walk into the centre of the bustling Ambleside. The views are of course sights to be hold all the way down but the most spectacular are towards the north of the lake where the Fairfield Horseshoe, Great and Little Langdale and Coniston Old Man are in view. The Windermere Marina continues to thrive with around 400 boats having mooring there, the largest inland marina in the North of England.

Sailing on Lake Windermere is an excellent way to travel. In the summer moths the roads are blocked continually due to the high number of visitors or when essential roadworks are being carried out . Sailing on the lake is direct, allows the stopping off at the top destinations along the lake such as Bowness, Ambleside and to the many Lake District hotels and makes for a very relaxing journey with not a hint of road rage!

Taking out a Lake District boat charter is an excellent way to celebrate a special occasion. Windermere Lake cruises can be taken out for half days, full days or as bespoke charters. High quality food and beverages are served and it makes a very memorable day. A cruise on Lake Windermere is a really nice extra treat for a bride and groom on a wedding day. Special birthday treats and celebrations are great on a cruise. Leisure is not the only reason for a cruise. Business meetings, conferences and crucial pitches can also be taken on a boat. A luxury cruise on Lake Windermere is something different and projects a very good image it can also boost employee’s morals especially in conference or team building situations.

How Keswick Hotels are beating the Recession

Fri, 28 May 2010 14:26:12 +0530

Although the hotel and tourism industry is one of the first industries to see the onset of a recession or economic downturn, they are the first the react. A hotel business is built on statistics of guest numbers, gross profit and efficiency. Hotels are famous for special break offers, vouchers and other such incentives.

Hotels are having to think even more creatively in order to entice guests in these tough times. With so many Lake District hotels offering discounted rates, which one do you choose? A clever marketing department should be looking at quirky offers or adding value which is something that many tourism businesses are heading towards these days. In 2008, the high quality 3 and 4 star Cumbria hotels reported a good year and it is thought that the added value received from such establishments was one of the leading factors.

Of course, it isn’t just leisure guests that need to be lured. With businesses cutting staff and budgets, the business guest is just as important to target. Cumbria is an excellent stop off for business guests from the south on their way to Scotland. Another market is conferencing. Conferencing facilities and packages are offered in most of the larger hotels Lake District now. With most conferences held on week days, it is an excellent market to target. Creative marketing campaigns are springing up such as the Best Western ‘message focussed menu options’ where bread and water is an option if a team has recorded poor performance. This is an eye catching campaign but which saves the business money but helps to improve the performance of their team as the same time.

Short breaks offers for leisure guests have been popular for some time but short breaks are a great way to get away when money is tight. Keswick hotels are popular with leisure and business guests due to its location and facilities. Easily accessible from the M6 motorway, Keswick has some of the most equipped hotels in Cumbria and with such fantastic scenery and walking, it creates a very cost effective break. An area full of activities and stunning scenery is the area of Keswick and Bassenthwaite. There are many Keswick hotels that offer child friendly rooms with excellent leisure facilities on site. These facilities include heated swimming pools, gyms, tennis courts, putting greens and some even have games rooms with both board games and computer games such as Wii consoles installed. The practical facilities within these hotels come in the form of flexible meal times for children, the use of complimentary high chairs and cots, bed time books and stocks of essential items such as nappies, baby milks and food and dummies. Bassenthwaite the village itself is one of the most beautiful Lakeland villages and is an ideal base for discovering the woodlands of Thornthwaite Forest and the trails of Dodd Wood. It is the northernmost and only true 'lake' in the Lake District; it is renowned for its peacefulness, accessibility and continually changing scenery caused by changeable weather and seasons.

With hotels keeping creative with their offers, listening to the needs of their guests both leisure and business and keeping up a high standard, it should hopefully keep them in a much better position during this recession.

Bank Holiday Cumbria Days Out

Wed, 26 May 2010 17:50:40 +0530

The August Bank Holiday weekend has always been one of the busiest and most popular Bank Holidays to go away. It is in a prime summer month and also the last Bank Holiday before Christmas. The weekend is one of the last before children return to school and the timing of it is ideal for both tourists taking their first break of the summer or as a short get away for those who have taken a holiday earlier in the summer.

Getting away for August Bank Holiday in the UK is a great idea especially in 2009. The Sterling to Euro exchange rate is still poor and with holidays and prices abroad rising, staying in the UK has been a popular choice this summer. A long weekend is an excellent choice if money is tight and a holiday for a whole week is unaffordable. Another reason could be or if the time off work cannot be had. Staying in a hotel for 3 nights often means a discount or added value can be obtained for example free dinner on one of the nights or a half price third night.

There are late deals to be had in and the Lake District is a good example. The Lake District is a great place to visit for a Bank Holiday weekend as it is easily accessible, has a wide range of locations and places to stay and visit and offers something different from a city break or holiday abroad. With such a large amount of hotels, late availability deals can often be had. Such discounts can sometimes mean that an otherwise out of price range hotel can be booked.

The roads in the UK on Bank Holidays are notoriously busy so staying at home but choosing to go out for day trips can mean major stress not relaxation. A weekend away means the journey can be done at an off peak time and once at the venue, the car can parked up and left until it is time to return home. Many Lake District hotels are situated near bus stops and other good transport links. On the larger lakes there is the choice of water transport in the form of ferry’s and launches to get from one end to another. Hotels in the Lake District also have a huge number of walks from right outside the door. If money is tight, then the Lake District is the perfect destination. What can be cheaper than walking one of spectacular fells?

Green initiatives are high on the agenda for Lake District tourism operators. Tourism businesses are promoting the use of green travel both travelling to and around the Lake District. Incentives for guests are being offered in the form of discounts should a guest travel to the county by train or if a bike is hired for the duration of the stay. As many tourists are more aware now of how much of an effect an airplane journey has on their carbon footprint, staying in the UK is the green traveller’s destination of choice.

Self Catering in the Lake District

Mon, 24 May 2010 18:29:14 +0530

A self catering holiday gives more space for families and allow multiple couples or friends to go away together, splitting costs and creating a good value holiday. Responsibletravel.com reported a 50% rise of self catering holidays compared with this time last year.

Unless there is a special offer on a 5 star hotel rate then that rate is going to be considerable and even with a discount or added value offer, can still be on the steep side. The rate charge of a 5 star, luxury self catering property only changes with the seasons. When filled to its capacity (especially in the case of larger properties) a luxury cottage can be rented for a comparatively small amount per person. Take properties that sleep 10 to 14. In the Lake District, there are some of the most luxurious and distinguished self catering properties available in the whole of the UK. Coupled with the spectacular scenery and the choice and quality of the food and produce, a truly 5 star holiday can be had at a very small cost.

When a large party takes a self catering holiday, it not only benefits the bank balance but it benefits the environment too. The carbon footprint of a self catering holiday is significantly less than a hotel based holiday. Many factors contribute to this, the amount of lights, sheets and towels washed and spa and swimming pool facilities and transportation costs as larger groups can car share. Some self catering property owners and developers are creating more eco friendly properties, for example, installing solar panels, wind turbines, using worming and composting systems.

There are a number of plus points that make a self catering holiday attractive. Here are some examples:

1.The ability to cook yourselves. This is a huge money saving exercise especially for families and larger groups. When in a group, the cooking can be shared and it can actually be quite a fun event. The luxury self catering properties are often better equipped than the guest’s homes with state of the art, contemporary facilities.

2.Storage facilities and space. If having an activity holiday or a family holiday in the Lake District where there are bikes, walking gear or sailing equipment, most self catering properties have the space to store this equipment and space for drying when necessary. This can be very necessary in the Lake District!

3. Lake District cottages are often set amongst fantastic scenery and tranquil locations, allowing complete relaxation.

4.It is the chance to spend time in a property completely different from home.

5.The ability to come and go when you please.

6.The more the merrier for fun and money saving. There is greater interaction compared with staying in separate hotel rooms.

North Yorkshire incorporating Hovingham and York

Sun, 23 May 2010 16:52:06 +0530

The North York Moors are one of the largest expanses of heather moorland in the United Kingdom. It covers an area of 1,436 km² (554 square miles), and it has a population of about 25,000. The North York Moors became a National Park in 1952, through the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act of 1949.

Four roads cross the moors from north to south. In the east the A171 joins Whitby and Scarborough. Further inland, the A169 runs between Pickering and Whitby. More centrally, a minor road departs from the A170 at Keldholme and passes through Castleton before joining the A171 which connects Whitby and Guisborough. The most westerly route is the B1257 connecting Helmsley to Stokesley. The A170 from Thirsk to Scarborough marks the southern boundary of the moors area.

There is an east-west main line rail link from Whitby to Middlesbrough in the north and the popular North Yorkshire Moors steam railway runs from Pickering to Grosmont with a link to Whitby. The Moorsbus Network offers an alternative way around the North York Moors, instead of using private cars.

Many visitors to the moors are engaged in outdoor pursuits, particularly walking; the parks has a network of rights-of-way almost 2300 km (1400 miles) in length, and most of the areas of open moorland will be open access under the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000. Popular named walks include the Cleveland Way, which circles the moors, and has a section along the coast; and the Lyke Wake Walk, which leads directly across the heart of the moors. The area also offers opportunities for cycling, mountain biking, and horse-riding. The steep escarpments that define the edges of the park on three sides are used by several gliding clubs.

The moors have not changed much in the past 50 years, and are often used as a backdrop to British television programmes and films.The series Heartbeat and the scenes of The Hogsmeade Station in the Harry Potter movies were filmed in Goathland. Dalby Forest is also host to many forms of entertainment throughout the year including outdoor concerts.
Hovingham is a large and very beautiful village and civil parish in the Ryedale district of North Yorkshire, northern England. It is on the edge of the Howardian Hills and about 7 miles south of Kirkbymoorside, near to the city of York and the market towns of Helmsley, Pickering and Malton.

Hovingham has been home to the Worsley family since 1563. The sixth Thomas Worsley (1710-1778) designed and built the current Hovingham Hall. A unique feature of the Grade I listed building is that it is entered through a covered Riding School, once used for training horses.

The tower of the parish church of All Saints is of Saxon origin. The majority of the present church building dates back to 1860, when it was rebuilt at the expense of Marcus Worsley. An interesting feature is the large 10th-century altar cross.

York is a major tourist centre and only a short drive from Hovingham. If you are visiting for a cultural getaway or a romantic break then visit York and be inspired. Renowned for its exquisite architecture, tangle of quaint cobbled streets and the iconic York Minster, York is fast developing a flourishing, cutting-edge scene. Delve into the city's vibrant café culture, take time out to enjoy some of the country's most talented street entertainers or simply watch the world go by while sipping a drink by the river.

A city of contrasts and exciting discoveries, York is a place where the old encompasses the new and the commonplace meets with the unexpected. Broaden your mind with a visit to world class museums or a variety of festivals held throughout the year catering for all ages and interests.

Carlisle and Hadrian's Wall

Fri, 21 May 2010 14:27:08 +0530

Carlisle is in fact the largest city in England by area because it includes the towns of Brampton and Longtown as well as many outlying villages including Dalston and Wetherall. In total the city of Carlisle covers an area totalling four hundred and two square miles. The city is traversed by several major rivers, including the Caldew, Eden, and Petteril.

Commercially, Carlisle is linked to the rest of England via the M6 motorway, and to the Scottish Lowlands via the A74(M) and M74 motorways. By rail, it is located on the main West Coast line that runs between Glasgow and London.

Carlisle is an historic city and its origins can be traced back to a 1st-century Romain outpost associated with Hadrian's Wall. The Brythonic settlement that expanded from this outpost was destroyed by the Danes in 875. Thereafter the region formed part of the Southern Uplands of Scotland, until colonised under King William II of England in 1092. William II built Carlisle Castle, which houses a military museum. Carlisle Cathedral, founded in the 12th century, is one of the smallest in England.
Along the City of Carlisle's northern extent is the Solway Firth, which forms the western section of the Anglo-Scottish border, and thus divides the city from Dumfries and Galloway, one of the council areas of Scotland. To the east is the English county of Northumberland; to the south is the district of Eden and to the west and south-west the borough of Allerdale, both in the county of Cumbria.

Carlisle is a great place to visit as the city offers great shopping potential as well as an excellent choice of bars, restaurants and visitor attractions including Tullie House Museum and Art Gallery, Carlisle Castle, The Millennium Gallery and Carlisle Cathedral.

There are plenty of things to do in and around Carlisle including the Border Reivers cycle trail, which covers over a hundred miles of unspoilt countryside with a choice of three circular cycle routes to cater for all levels of cyclists. You could walk in the footsteps of the Legions, along the Hadrian's Wall National Trail and around the beautiful surrounding areas or take a trip on Hadrian's Wall Bus, visiting some of the market towns and villages along the way. You could also choose to relax and enjoy the views from the Carlisle to Settle Railway - the most spectacular railway journey in England.

There are a wide range of activities available within easy reach of Carlisle including a range of watersports at Talkin Tarn, such as canoeing, rowing, wind surfing and sailing. Other activities including horse riding and pony trekking at the Bailey Mill and Cargo Riding Centres, plus fishing on the rivers Eden, Esk and their tributaries are well known for salmon, sea trout and brown trout.

When it comes to places to stay, visitors will find Carlisle offers a wide range of quality accommodation, from friendly budget priced Carlisle bed and breakfast right the way through to luxury Carlisle hotels. Whether you want a peaceful country retreat or a convenient city centre stop over you are sure to find the ideal place to stay.

Bowness-on-Windermere - the heart of the Lake District

Thu, 20 May 2010 18:29:33 +0530

Bowness-on-Windermere is a small town and tourism hot-spot, located on the shores of Lake Windermere and climbing the surrounding fells to gain the best views. You’re likely to travel through the small town of Windermere, to get down to Bowness [as it’s often referred to]. Both Windermere and Bowness-on-Windermere have their own town centres, but to a new visitor, the towns appear very much linked, with no countryside between them – a result of the growth of these once tiny villages.

Windermere train station is at the top of the hill and while it’s possible to wander down to Bowness, many simply hop in a taxi or on a bus for the trip down to the Lakeside. You can hop on the car-carrying cable ferry to explore the Western shores of the Lake including the village of Far Sawrey. However, most will happily spend a day in Bowness either taking a boat trip on the lake, shopping or enjoying the local attractions such as the Beatrix Potter Attraction or the Steamboat Museum. There are art galleries galore and there’s even a pitch and putt course down near to the lake.

The railway arrived in 1857, making the area much more accessible to visitors and with this demand grew a wealth of Lake District Hotels and a multitude of natural and 'built' attractions. The railway still exists today and brings people from all over the world to this special area of the Lake District National Park. As well as being a sustainable way to travel, most of the Windermere hotels are only a short walk from the station, or at worst a five minute taxi ride.

In terms of attractions, Lake Windermere is well known as England's largest Lake at over 10 miles long and is also the deepest at 65 metres. There are numerous outstanding viewing points within easy reach either by car, or by short walk. Gummer’s Howe is probably the most famous being situated at the south end of Lake Windermere. You can drive most of the way, leaving only a 30 minute walk to marvel at the panoramic views over Lake Windermere and across to Morecambe Bay. To see the Lakes from a different perspective, Arnside Knott rewards those who take this gentle climb with stunning views of the Kent Estuary and Morecambe Bay; simply head for the viewpoint. For a more challenging, but still enjoyable walk for most, take the 2 hour round trip to Brantfell and Post Knott. Take the camera, as there are wonderful views of Windermere, the stunning Langdales and maybe even the Lake District Hotel you’ve chosen. Hope for a clear day and always check the weather forecasts before heading out. Suitable footwear is always important, even on these more leisurely walks.

Around Lake Windermere you’ll find an array of villages and hamlets to enjoy. While the drive will be slow around the twisting back roads, you’ll discover:

* + Fell Foot Park [National Trust] where you can enjoy an ice cream and hire a boat;
* + Aquarium of the Lakes and the Lakeside and Haverthwaite railway at Lakeside, both being attractions you can enjoy on a sunny or rainy day;
* + At Graythwaite you can enjoy Graythwaite Hall Gardens, which are particularly impressive in the Spring;
* + Head up towards Sawrey and visit ‘Hill Top’, a 17th century farmhouse where Beatrix Potter weaved her lyrical magic.
* + At the north end of Lake Windermere, Ambleside is a Mecca for walking enthusiasts and you can take a lake cruise back to your hotel in Bowness-on-Windermere;
* + Visit the Beatrix Potter Attraction in Bowness-on-Windermere
* + Consider the Steamboat Museum, again on the shores of Lake Windermere

Brooklands Racing Circuit as a Travel Destination

Thu, 20 May 2010 14:13:13 +0530

The Brooklands motor racing circuit and aerodrome was opened in 1907. It made history as it was the first ever purpose built motor race circuit that was banked in the world. In Britain motorists were restricted to a 20mph speed limit and Brooklands was so popular due to the high speeds that could be reached. Sadly the last race was in 1939 and it was the outbreak of the war that put a stop to any further racing. Brooklands was also one of the first airfields in Britain created by Hugh Locke-King and was also opened in 1907. In 1939 the whole site was handed over to the wartime manufacture of military aircraft. The track was badly damaged due to bombings and was also covered by dispersal hangers and as such the racing never returned.

Brooklands was always the home of revolutionary aviation development until British Aerospace ended producing aircraft in 1987. Today the site is home to the Brooklands Museum; a motoring and major aviation museum, which was founded by the Brooklands Museum Trust that was formed in 1987. The purpose was to preserve the traditions and spirit of the heritage destination that it is today. It is currently used for vintage car rallies, motorcycle and other transport-based events .

Due to its location, located just 5 minutes from the M25, 30minutes from central London, 17 miles from Heathrow and 33 miles from Gatwick, the site has attracted large stores, companies and manufacturers such as Marks and Spencer, Mercedes Benz and Proctor and Gamble. The site is still developing with the latest addition being the art deco inspired Brooklands Hotel. Having only opened in March 2010, the Brooklands Hotel is a must to visit. It is to be located in the middle of the motor racing circuit, it is aimed towards both the leisure and business visitor with 120 spacious bedrooms and luxury suites. Keeping the heritage of this quite unique former motor racing site has been high on the agenda for the new hotel. From the original Brooklands racetrack which rolls out before you in riven quartz and honed granite, to the glittering 1930s inspired honeycomb pendants that greet the guests upon check-in. For Brooklands fans, the knowing nod to the legacy of the race circuit that surrounds and runs through the hotel is great to see.

Destination Windermere - the Largest Lake in the Lake District

Sat, 01 May 2010 16:47:33 +0530

The cruises on Lake Windermere are truly worth a go as the magnificent scenery can be taken in fully. Taking out a Lake District boat charter is an excellent way to celebrate a special occasion. Windermere Lake cruises can be taken out for half days, full days or as bespoke charters.

Windermere in the English Lake District is the longest natural lake in England. Set in the middle of some of the most beautiful scenery in the country, Windermere and its surrounding areas have been a favoured holiday destination since 1847. Lake Windermere is 10.5 miles long and ranges from a quarter of a mile to one mile wide.

Starting from the south of the lake and Newby Bridge is where you will be. Continuing up the lake and you pass Cartmel Fell, Far Sawrey, Bowness-on-Windermere, High Wray and the lake comes to an end at Waterhead, only a short walk into the centre of the bustling Ambleside. The views are of course sights to be hold all the way down but the most spectacular are towards the north of the lake where the Fairfield Horseshoe, Great and Little Langdale and Coniston Old Man are in view. The Windermere Marina continues to thrive with around 400 boats having mooring there, the largest inland marina in the North of England.

Sailing on Lake Windermere is an excellent way to travel. In the summer moths the roads are blocked continually due to the high number of visitors or when essential road works are being carried out. Sailing on the lake is direct, allows the stopping off at the top destinations along the lake such as Bowness, Ambleside and to the many Lake District hotels and makes for a very relaxing journey with not a hint of road rage!

The town of Windermere is located on the east bank of the lake and is in actual fact one and a quarter miles from the lake. With a population of approximately 2,295, Windermere is one of the larger towns in the South Lakes. Many businesses have offices and shops in the town due to its location to the many smaller villages in the area. It has a supermarket, many local independent shops and the flagship Lakeland Limited store right next to the train station.

Surrounding the town and all the way down to the lake are a plethora of Windermere hotels and Lake District hotels. The choice really is endless. Boutique and niche hotels have begun to pop up making Windermere a quality destination suitable for young and old. Windermere has an excellent choice of Lake District restaurants and they really are spoilt with the amount of fantastic local produce. Cumberland sausage, herdwick lamb and fantastic cheeses are in abundance along with artisan bakers and chutney producers. The real ale in Cumbria – the Lake District is second to none and what better drink to go with Cumberland sausage and mash! There are micro breweries in the back of public houses through to breweries where they offer’s tours.

Child Friendly Hotels In the Lake District

Thu, 29 Apr 2010 21:59:27 +0530

Parents however, want a bit of luxury and do not always want to camp or go self catering. Times are changing and hoteliers are waking up to the idea that families are a large market hardly targeted. There are some hotels that operate strict “no children” policy but many hotels who are quite happy having them stay are adapting rooms and creating fun things for children to do to entice families to stay.

The Lake District is the perfect location for children. Endless activities to keep them occupied for example watersports, walking, Go-Ape, a zoo and the Ravenglass-Eskdale railway. It has long been an area popular with families.

An area full of activities and stunning scenery is the area of Keswick and Bassenthwaite. There are many Keswick hotels that offer child friendly rooms with excellent leisure facilities on site. These facilities include heated swimming pools, gyms, tennis courts, putting greens and some even have games rooms with both board games and computer games such as Wii consoles installed. The practical facilities within these hotels come in the form of flexible meal times for children, the use of complimentary high chairs and cots, bed time books and stocks of essential items such as nappies, baby milks and food and dummies.

The Bassenthwaite Lake area encompasses some of the most well equipped hotels Lake District. The lake is one of the largest in the English Lake District situated at the foot of Skiddaw and in such close proximity to Keswick, it is a great location. The lake is 4 miles long and is the shallowest of all the lakes with its maximum depth just 70 feet. For parents interested in bird watching, it is one of the best places to spot an Osprey.

Hundreds of people visit the Bassenthwaite area over the spring to get a glimpse of the Lake District Ospreys. Visitors can get great views of the birds from a Viewpoint in Dodd Wood, only 400 metres away from the nest. The Viewpoint is open all daylight hours, with staff on hand with telescopes from 10am-5pm daily, as part of the RSPB’s ‘Dates with Nature’ Project.

Bassenthwaite the village itself is one of the most beautiful Lakeland villages and is an ideal base for discovering the woodlands of Thornthwaite Forest and the trails of Dodd Wood. It is the northernmost and only true 'lake' in the Lake District; it is renowned for its peacefulness, accessibility and continually changing scenery caused by changeable weather and seasons. When the adults need to get away there’s Mirehouse which is most definitely worth a visit. Alfred Lord Tennyson stayed at Mirehouse whilst writing his poem 'Morte D'Arthur' in 1835. It is a private house but open to the public on Wednesday and Sunday afternoons. The grounds and a tea shop are open daily though. Further on from Mirehouse is an open air theatre erected by the Tennyson Society is the location where Tennyson was thought to have written most of that famous poem. All around the lake and the surrounding area is a strong literary feel along with a popular place for artists.

Short Breaks in Lake District Cottages

Wed, 28 Apr 2010 12:27:15 +0530

The more relaxed stipulations on minimum stays are the case not just at hotels and bed and breakfast businesses but it is now the case for many self catering property owners.

Self catering is becoming more and more popular. The consumer is seeing the many benefits of staying in a self catering property in the UK as opposed to either staying in a hotel or going abroad. Tourism industry members are seeing the profits made from owning holiday homes and the rentals of them. For second home owners, it is the perfect way to make some money out of the property whilst the owners are not using it. In the tough economic time, this is a practice that is being seen more and more to alleviate mortgage payments and running costs. Holiday property owners and companies are also noting that more and more enquiries are for short breaks, typically 3 or 4 nights. Due to this, short breaks in self catering properties are now widely available. They enable extra business in the quieter, off season months and can even generate repeat business for a full week in the high season. Short breaks are great for those who cannot afford the cost of a full week, those who have a small holiday entitlement and families wanting an extra break on top of their main summer holiday.

The Lake District lends itself very well to a self catering holiday. It has some of the quaintest cottages and properties in the UK set in the most spectacular surroundings. Many walkers and adventure enthusiasts prefer staying in a self catering property for many reasons. It is often the case that Lake District cottages are located in a more rural or isolated locations which suits walkers and climbers enabling them to step right out of the cottage front door and up a mountain. In most cases, hotels and bed and breakfast venues are larger properties so are in less isolated locations. Hotels and b&b’s do not suit everyone. Lake District self catering properties allow complete freedom to come and go when you please and the storage areas for bikes, walking and climbing gear for example. Washing facilities are all but always found so washing of gear can be done throughout the stay if required.

When in a group, Lake District cottages are ideal. A trip to a local shop or market can be done stocking up fully for the week ahead, cooking can be shared out and combined, can make for a very cost effective holiday. Although with the large number of quality restaurants and pubs in the Lake District, it is hard to stay in every night! The main point is, you get the choice when staying in a Lake District cottage.

Self catering holidays are an ideal type of holiday when taking a pet away. A self catering property has the space for the dog as many are like home from homes and it enables the ease when feeding and the storing of pet and dog food for example. The Lake District is heaven for dogs with endless walking routes and for the owners, the spectacular scenery coupled with an excellent range of Lake District cottage properties to stay in. Not all Lake District self catering cottages allow dogs, so asking prior to booking is advisable but properties that do allow pets are becoming increasingly more available. Some even let pets go free which makes taking a pet with you far cheaper than kennelling. After all, it is reported that there are around 27 million pets in the UK with 43% of UK households having at least one pet.

Why Choose To Rent A Villa In Seminyak

Sat, 20 Mar 2010 14:08:26 +0530

Immediately north-west of Kuta are the villages of Legian and Seminyak.

Followed directly from Kerobokan then, further north, the countryside of Canggu and its still authentic rustic charm. Originally separate areas, Legian and Seminyak are two villages on the beach that have merged together due to their similarities, such as cheap restaurants, pubs, souvenir shops and market stalls. Legian was originally developed as a high-end solution to Kuta (the festive frenzy somewhat decadent area frequented mainly by young Australian surfers), but it is now central Seminyak which supplants Legion as the place to stay in Bali.

Seminyak boasts the highest concentration of extremely diverse restaurants, with a wide choice of cocktail bars, nightclubs, luxurious spas, boutiques, prestigious hotels and private villas. These dream houses were built mostly in the 80s/90s by many contractors and designers who have been attracted and charmed by life in this magical island. In addition to the entertainment aspect of Seminyak, it's numerous beaches and proximity to the airport, this area is the ideal base from where you can visit other parts of the island.

In and around Seminyak there are a variety of activities to keep you occupied. These include:

Animal parks

Water parks

Golf courses

Mountain biking

Rafting and Kayaking

Hiking, diving

Surfing

Bungee Jumping

Horseback riding

Traditional Massage etc etc.

Seminyak and children

Indonesians love kids! Here the children are treated like kings and queens and are particularly welcome in Bali. You will always easily find someone to baby sit your children and their are numerous exciting family activities Here are some suggested walks to do: The Bali Tree Top Adventure in Bedugul Botanical Garden, a circuit type "tree climbing" which lasts about 2 hours. The Butterfly park(Taman Kupu Kupu) north of Tabanan (30 minutes northwest of Seminyak), children will love the hatchery and huge insects Workshop painting ceramics in Jenggala Keramik (Jimbaran) Waterbom (Kuta) Waterpark with it's numerous pools and exciting waterslides Numerous animal parks scattered across the island While flights to Bali are expensive and the trip is long, once you've arrived, you'll find the costs in Bali are extremely cheap and the holiday experience is truly memorable. In fact, we dare you to find someone that has been to Bali that didn't have one of the best holidays ever!

Things To Do In London

Fri, 19 Feb 2010 11:25:11 +0530

Things To Do In London

If you're planning your first visit to London, it's easy to become overwhelmed by the sheer number of attractions and things to see and do in this massive, vibrant city. Between all of the museums and historical sites that dot the landscape here, it can be difficult to make a definite plan about which places to prioritize during your visit. However, there are a handful of quintessential London landmarks, attractions and sites that you absolutely can't miss during your first exploration of this unforgettable city. Find out a little bit about them - and plan on making them the backbone of your sojourn in London.

Tower Bridge

This impressive bridge has captured the imaginations of visitors and residents alike for years. Watching its two drawbridges raise and lower is one of the most indelible experiences of any trip to London, and you should make a point of stopping by here for that point alone. Snapping a picture of you and your travelling party with this iconic landmark in the background is a wonderful way to bookend any photo album of your visit here.

Buckingham Palace

It seems as if virtually everyone is aware of Buckingham Palace, and you can't "do" London without experiencing the changing of the guards here at least once. Whether you choose to simply take in that experience - or if you opt to take an actual tour of portions of the palace - you are sure to have a delightful time. It has been a prime London location since it was built back in 1702 and continues to draw in thousands and thousands of tourists each and every year.

The London Eye

Although London is the home to several towers, none affords quite the view that the London Eye does. This massive observation wheel will take your breath away as it hoists you impossibly high over the city of London. A round trip journey takes approximately thirty minutes, and the admission fee is most definitely worth it. There's no other way to get a true bird's eye view of the city; on a clear day, you can take in a 25-mile panoramic view. It is an exceptional way to introduce yourself with the city of London.

Trafalgar Square

In many ways, Trafalgar Square is the Times Square of London; in fact, the annual New Year's Eve celebrations are held here, just as they are in New York City. Beyond those festivities, Trafalgar Square is, in many ways, the nucleus of life in London; a visit here allows you to take in hordes of people while checking out many sculptures and monuments. Four massive bronze lions - each which stands over 20 feet high - make for fantastic photo opportunities, and Trafalgar Square is a prime location for people watching as well.

The British Museum

There are so many fine museums in the city of London that it's difficult to choose only one or two to enjoy while here. If you can only afford the time to visit one, though, it has to be the British Museum. With 2.5 miles of galleries, this is a massive complex that houses millions of artifacts, exhibits and other things. So much history and culture can be found within the walls of the British Museum that you will feel as if you've been whisked into a time machine as you roam its venerable halls.

Madame Tussaud's

There are several Madame Tussaud's branches around the world now, but the London branch was the original one and is well worth a visit. The lifelike wax sculptures that make this place so famous offer a welcome break from all of the historical and educational attractions that typically make up a visit to London. At Tussaud's, you can have your picture taken with any number of realistic looking historical and pop culture figures; be prepared for some laughs.

The Tower Of London

As the home of the Crown Jewels, the Tower of London is a natural stop for many tourists visiting the city. With a history steeped in executions, imprisonments and any number of other historical events, the Tower of London is bound to capture your imagination and remind you that this city has a long, fascinating story to tell.