Airline & Holiday Information

Archive for the ‘Worldwide Travel’ Category

Most African safaris will consist of adventure filled stopovers in national parks and trendy campsites which are great for viewing the diverse wildlife to be found on the continent.  However, Africa also offers a great deal of insight into human history, and into the origins of our species.  Visiting the Cradle of Humankind in South Africa allows the visitor to go back in time and imagine living the life of a pre-humanoid in the green and beautiful landscape to be found in this incredible part of the world. 

The Cradle of Humankind can be found roughly 50 kilometres northwest of Johannesburg, South Africa.  It covers an expanse of about 474 square kilometres.  The area comprises caves, mines, and lakes and contains some of the oldest and most astounding fossils in the world.  Scientists and researchers are still busily trying to unearth the many secrets that are hidden within the borders of this amazing area.  A few of the most important things that have been found here include:
 
•    The complete skull of a pre-humanoid – nicknamed Mrs. Ples – thought to be around 2.15 million years old.
•    Stone tools that are thought to be over a million years old, found in Cooper’s Cave.
•    Signs of the first use of controlled fires by humankind.
•    An extinct leopard and zebra lair at Plover’s Lake.
•    Four and a half million year old animal fossils that were discovered at Bolt’s Farm.  These are the oldest fossils in this area.
Safaris and guided tours of the Cradle of Humankind originating in Johannesburg are widely available, and make a unique and fascinating addition to any holiday in South Africa. 

The land of the steel drum is an often overlooked Caribbean nation for tourists, but offers an upbeat and vibrant modern culture while boasting some spectacular natural and man-made sites as well as world class entertainment.   Trinidad and Tobago is a wonderfully exciting place for Caribbean holidays, especially during Carnival time, when it transforms into the party central of the entire Caribbean.

Trinidad and Tobago offers a few luxury accommodation options for guests looking for upscale stays.

Villas of Stonehaven

Situated in breath-taking Tobago, overlooking unspoiled rainforest and hills and a protected bird sanctuary, and only a few minutes from the sea, these spacious villas cover 3,700 square feet.  Each of the 14 villas have private pools, 500 foot verandas, and on-site Clubhouse and bars for light dining, romantic drinks and premium Caribbean cocktails.  Deep-sea fishing, golf, and guided rainforest hikes are available on site.

VLH Tobago Golf Resort and Spa

Also situated in private and lush Tobago, this resort overlooks the Tobago plantations as well as an 18-hole PGA designed golf course.  A full service spa and 4,000 square foot ballroom means there is plenty of space to entertain guests.  Exquisite dining is directly on site at a selection of fine restaurants.

If you are looking to get as close to paradise on Earth as is possible when it comes to holiday destinations, you can do no better than the Hawaiian Islands.
 
Maui is called the ‘Magic Isle’, and is one of the most popular destinations in Hawaii for visitors from the UK.  Maui offers glorious scenery, a laid-back and relaxed atmosphere, and some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. 

The Island of Hawaii is the largest of the Hawaiian Islands, and there is a staggering diversity of landscapes available on the “Big Island”.  These include deserts, verdant rain forests, snow-capped volcanoes, and black sand beaches.
 
The Island of Oahu offers many peaceful natural settings, and is also the perfect place to catch some waves with a surfboard, and dance the night away in the main town of Waikiki. 

Kauai is delightfully unspoiled and offers the visitor beaches, stunning waterfalls, plummeting valleys, and soaring peaks. 

Accommodation in Hawaii can range from a world class 5-star hotel to a delightful little house on the beach, and from a self-catering apartment to a luxury villa.  The warm sunshine, sensational scenery, and fresh air will certainly help to make any holiday in Hawaii one to remember.

Hong Kong may sound like an exotic, unreachable destination, but with non-stop flights taking around 12 hours, it has become a popular destination for travellers wanting to experience something different.

Having been a British Colony for many years, Hong Kong offers a unique mix of Chinese traditions and lifestyle mixed with British and European influences.  The main language is Cantonese, but many signs, menus and directions also appear in English, with visitors having little difficulty in finding their way around.

The iconic image of Hong Kong Island is the Peak, a summit which lies within a national park, and can be reached by the Peak Tram.  The tram climbs some 373 metres at such a steep angle, nearby buildings look as if they are leaning.  From the top, visitors can enjoy an amazing panorama across the Island and down to Victoria Bay.

Another unmissable Hong Kong tradition is crossing the harbour by Star Ferry, especially at night, when a magnificent light show is played out on more than 40 of Hong Kong Island’s skyscrapers.

Those wanting to retreat from the city for a while may be surprised by the nearness of some beautiful sandy beaches; Lamma Island, for example, is just 30 minutes away by ferry and is home to several.  Meanwhile on Lantau Island, visitors can climb the 240 steps to the feet of the Big Buddha, which stands some 34 metres tall.

By contrast, Lantau Island is also home to Hong Kong Disneyland, opened in 2005, and there is also a large water park – Ocean Park – suitable for all the family.  Happy Valley racecourse on the island itself holds regular meetings and is a cultural institution in itself, whilst the night markets of Kowloon provide a fascinating evening’s entertainment.

The difference between sea adventures around the British coast and those that can be had in the Maldives is obvious.  However, it is more than just sun that creates the difference; the overall package of crystal clear seas, white beaches, marine life and one of the largest coral reefs in the world make Maldives holidays unique.
 
The Maldives archipelago is known for teeming with marine life that calls these seas of the Indian Ocean home.  Experiencing and enjoying this marine life is made possible for visitors through passenger submarines, diving and snorkelling, and boat trips.

Boats are a brilliant way for you to enjoy the surface view of the coral reef, especially if you want to take pictures of the whales and dolphins that swim playfully through these seas.  An in-depth view of coral reef life can be achieved through a ride on a passenger submarine.  Here you will be able to enjoy schools of fish such as the common lionfish, snapper fish and yellow boxfish.  Yellowfin tuna and tip reef sharks are also commonly sighted during these underwater coral reef tours. 

The vibrant colours of the algae and sea grass offer the visitor a chance to indulge in the beauty that is offered by coral reef tours.  Naturally the type of marine life you will find will depend on the season.    This ensures that, however many times you visit, your Maldives holidays are never the same twice.

Retreating to a 5 star diamond hotel on a secluded island is a beautiful way to spend a luxury Caribbean holiday, but for a private event or romantic retreat, go celebrity style and rent a private island for a temporary getaway.  A Robinson Crusoe private secluded paradise with a fully equipped luxury villa offers complete and unimaginable surrender.  Private islands can be both rented and sold for investment, leisure or both.  Here is where to head to get a beach all to yourself during a Caribbean holiday.

Limes Cay

Only 3 miles off mainland Nicaragua, this sandy 9.5 acre cove is dotted by white sugary sand, coconut palms and aquamarine water full of stunning coral reef.  Freshwater on the island, private pool and spacious private villas provide languishing guests a deeply intimate setting for romance or retreat.  Limes Cay is available for weekly rentals and is very easily reachable by boat for some low-key relaxation with no-frills accommodation.

Necker Island

One of Oprah’s reported favourites, this elegant and spacious island owned by billionaire Sir Richard Branson has been the site of many weddings and events of the rich and famous.  Necker overlooks the sparkling turquoise of the Caribbean Sea of the British Virgin Islands. Guests can stay in the cliff side villa and be treated to tropical drinks in the indoor garden and specially caught lobster lunches in the 26 seat dining room.  Necker Island is a premier destination for breath-taking getaways. 

Canouan of St. Vincent

The private playground of the rich and famous halfway down the Grenadines is just 4 miles long, yet packs a lot of action on its small grounds.  Canouan has a runway for long and mid-size jets for guests who need to arrive easily and privately.  Canouan claims among the whitest sands of the Caribbean and the highest point of the island offers a view of all St. Vincent.  The Ruffles Resort is on site here, featuring several private villas and 600 square foot rooms.  Its health club has a boxing ring and there is even an on-site private casino and ballroom for functions.

With many world-class hotels and resorts, Barbados holidays offer sophistication and elegance for those seeking luxury holidays. Barbados benefits from a tropical climate, pristine fine, sandy beaches and clear, aquamarine seas. The exclusive palm-fringed Platinum Coast on the west side of the island boasts luxury hotels and fine-dining restaurants. The east coast is quieter and enjoys dramatic scenery.

Offering something for all visitors, Barbados has a wide choice of luxury accommodation, a host of activities and attractions, and you will have a chance to sample the island’s culture.

Barbados is a very romantic destination, with a reputation as an exclusive venue for wedding packages and honeymoons. Luxury holidays in Barbados can be tailor-made to suit, incorporating cruises, beaches and pampering spa visits. Barbados holidays will appeal to couples, families or the single traveller.

Rich in history, Barbados has a strong British heritage, being known by other Caribbean islands as “Little England”.  The island’s culture is supplemented by the renowned local Bajan hospitality, giving the visitor a truly memorable experience.

Holiday Options

As the most easterly of the Caribbean Islands, Barbados luxury holidays offer a variety of water sports including diving, deep-sea fishing and surfing.  The coral reefs also provide excellent snorkelling opportunities.  Inland, the visitor can explore rainforests, cave systems and trekking excursions on horseback or by 4×4.  Golf is available at five courses on the island, including the prestigious Royal Westmoreland and Barbados championship course.

St Lawrence Gap on the south coast is known as a lively nightspot, with music, and many bars and restaurants lining the bay.

If you are seeking a holiday that is quite different from the traditional sun and beach holiday, consider Tozeur. Situated in the southwest part of Tunisia, Tozeur is an ancient city that remains true to its culture. Visiting Tunisia should not be an intimidating experience; the area relies heavily on tourism and most of the local people are very receptive to visitors. The lands are covered with thousands of palm trees, making Tozeur one of the largest date exporters in the world.

Part of the charm of visiting Tunisia is the uniqueness of the county’s tradition. Many people still get around on camel back. This is the perfect opportunity to indulge in a trek across the Sahara or to a nearby town or village. The location of Tozeur is ideal for those who wish to explore other areas as well. Nearby is the tiny town of Chott el-Djerid. Here you will find Fata Morganas.

Another splendid way to get around is on bicycle. While bicycles are extremely uncommon in Tunisia, they can easily be found in Tozeur. You will also notice, during daily excursions, women who are dressed completely in black with one visible colored ribbon. This ribbon is an indication of their status. A blue ribbon indicates they are married while a white ribbon indicates they are available for marriage.

Tozeur has numerous museums that are worth visiting. The most popular is the Museum of Popular Arts and Traditions. If you’re not that into museums, you should still seek this one out; its location is spectacular. It can be found along a water canal that is simply exploding with exquisite tropical foliage and bushes, making it the perfect rest spot.

There are many companies in Tozeur that offer excursions to surrounding ancient cities. Most of these cities date back thousands of years and provide a great insight to the country’s history. Unlike other ancient cities that one can find in Europe, the ancient cities of Tunisia are constructed with brick and wood. They are then finished with exploding colors, which is one of the most distinctive features of the buildings of Tozeur.

Great news for those in the Southampton region as its world famous port handles many cruise ships. This famous port is where the Titanic and the Mayflower once launched. It is now where passengers for cruise lines such as Celebrity, can climb aboard and enjoy a cruise without having to fly to a port destination.  

Cruises from Southampton have become more popular than ever as passengers there are without bag restrictions, long delays, or the stress and hassle of long airport queues. Cruising holidays are particularly attractive for locals with the number of cruise ships using the Southampton port. No more long flights or pricey connector journeys. The selection of such cruises offered by the cruise company Celebrity, are very popular.  

Those considering cruises from Southampton can choose from a wide variety of European cruises. These cruises include exciting stops that illustrate the natural beauty and rich, cultural heritage that many European cities are famous for. Relax; as you watch magnificent cities and unspoiled islands drift past as you cruise. While sailing between cities, passengers can indulge in the numerous delights that their cruise ship has to offer.  

Consider a cruise to Moscow, Berlin or the breathtaking fjords of Norway. Southampton cruises also include destinations such as Ireland, Mediterranean cruises and the Canary Islands. An Irish cruise will take you to sites such as St. Coleman’s Cathedral. Here, not only will you see the 47 bells, you will also enjoy spectacular views of the Spike and the Haulbowline Islands in Cork harbour.  

Another very popular choice is the Mediterranean. Get your camera ready as you visit Rome, Florence and Venice. These cities are famous for their art, history, architecture, food and shopping options, and are sure to please even the most seasoned traveller. 

Enjoy a warm holiday during the winter months as you sail through the Canary Islands. Visit places such as Lanzarote, Tenerife and Gran Canaria. Enjoy a stopover at Lisbon and Madeira and take in a day of fresh seafood and pristine beaches in between your offshore adventures.

Sailing from the port of Southampton is a great way to enjoy the luxury of a cruise without having to fly to a destination port. 

Close to South America and the Venezuelan lies Grenada, a collection of three Caribbean islands that provide the perfect destination for luxury holidays.

Grenada is the main island with Carriacou and Petite Martinique being its smaller satellites. Grenada’s nutmeg groves make it known as the ‘Isle of Spice’ and the addition of rainforests, rare fruits and exotic flowers make it a paradise for nature lovers.

Grenada holidays are perfect for romantic relaxation and recuperation with resorts and hotels offering peace and quiet in the beautiful tropical island settings. Stunning sunsets over clean white beaches can be enjoyed while sipping champagne cocktails and deciding what to choose for dinner. The choice of cuisine ranges from delicious Caribbean specialities to international delicacies prepared by experienced chefs. Fish is in abundance and there are always options for meat and vegetarian dishes and exotic and delicious desserts.

Adventure beckons too, with the sea providing opportunities for all kinds of water sports: sailing, deep sea fishing, waterskiing and scuba diving are all available, and windsurfers will enjoy unparalleled opportunities to pick up a steady breeze.

Hikers will take to the trails to explore the interior, where metallic blue lakes and stunning waterfalls sit alongside extinct volcano craters. Visitors looking for a less energetic time will enjoy the golf courses or head for the numerous spa treatments available throughout the island.

The sailing culture is an integral part of Grenada, housing top class marinas servicing yachts and boats of all sizes and from all over the world.

Picture Courtesy of Lee Coursey