Airline & Holiday Information

With a slightly cooler summer than either Florence or Rome, Venice is still deliciously warm, generally between 25oC and 31oC. Rain falls during the summer months, usually in the form of short, sudden thunderstorms. These quick showers help to clear the humidity from the air, often making a night’s sleep easier and more pleasant.

Sitting under the stars on a summer’s night in Venice is one of the most romantic and beautiful things in the world. The warm temperature combined with the quiet lapping of water and views of Venice’s famous lagoon and Grand Canal give the city an atmosphere that is not to be rivalled.

Venice has the world’s highest number of grand master pieces of artwork per square kilometre. With architectural wonders like the Basilica di San Marco this is a city of inspiration. However, it is not really designed for relaxation and today it is still packed full of artisans of all kinds; wander down the back alleyways or calli, to marvel at shoemakers hammering out beautiful genuine Venetian styled masterpieces, smell the scent of fantastic four-star Italian gourmet cooking and see the work of hundreds of hopeful artists.

Combined with the influx of tourists that come to see the sights during the summer months, the temperatures can make touring Venice a tiring experience. However, some of the city’s best and most famous festivals take place during the hotter months; the Venice Film Festival erupts during the end of August, when many famous celebrities can be spotted. Similarly, the wonderful ‘Festa del Redentore’, the Feast of Christ the Redeemer, takes place in July and is one of Venice’s best festivals. See the fireworks, cheer at the gondola races and enjoy the summery weather.

The cheapest and most convenient way of getting around Venice is by waterbus. Of course, this also enables tourists to take in the fantastic architecture of the city and is one of the most pleasant ways of getting around the city.

The Federal Republic of Germany consists of more than a dozen different states and offers tourists many choices of destination.  Of these, several cities are particularly prominent and attract many visitors, who enjoy cheap holidays there each year.

Berlin

Berlin is the capital of the reunified Germany.  Today, tourists can walk the route of the Berlin Wall and visit the ‘Museum Island’ area, home to the enormous Pergamon Museum, best known for its collection of ancient art from Greece and the Middle East.  Located nearby is the Alte Nationalgalerie, which showcases a collection of 19th century German painting. 

Cologne

At one point, much of Germany was under Roman control.  This history is evident in Cologne, which is home to some significant archaeological sites.  Also of interest in Cologne is the enormous cathedral that dominates the landscape and the Romanesque churches that dot the city.

Hamburg

The second largest city in the country, Hamburg is renowned for the tolerant, liberal culture of its red light district.  In addition, tourists today can visit the Kaiserkeller to see where the Beatles performed before being catapulted to fame. 

Munich

The capital city of Bavaria, this was the site of Hitler’s ill-fated attempt to take over Germany by force.  Now, Bavaria is best known for the extensive Oktoberfest held each year where tourists can sample a huge variety of German beers and enjoy a taste of authentic Bavarian culture.  Munich is also considered a gateway city for visitors who wish to go on and explore the Alps.

Nuremberg

This city is famous the world over for being the site of the trials against the Nazi party officials after their nation had been defeated in World War II.  To this day, tourists can see the party rally grounds where the Nazi faithful gathered during the years of the Third Reich, but Nuremberg also offers much older sites such as the Kaiserburg Castle, a Gothic structure that has been reconstructed along with much of the old part of the city.

Amsterdam is the capital of the Netherlands as well as its largest city.  Since Holland was of key importance during the artistic flourishing of the Northern Renaissance, Amsterdam today is a place where tourists can visit museums celebrating some of the finest art the Dutch nation has ever produced.

The Rijksmuseum

The first place many tourists visit is the vast Rijksmuseum.  Located near ‘Museum Square’, this museum dedicates itself to preserving and displaying key elements of Dutch art history as well as interpreting that history for the benefit of visitors.  Over a million works are included in the museum’s permanent collection, including key paintings by the great masters: Rembrandt, van Ruisdael, and Vermeer.  Also on display are thousands of objects of decorative art, a category that encompasses not just textiles and statuary, but also everyday objects such as expensive antique dinnerware.  Children may be particularly interested in the large dollhouses that are included amongst the museum’s priceless treasures. 

The Van Gogh Museum

The famous post-impressionist artist Vincent Van Gogh was born in Holland.  To commemorate his life and works, the Van Gogh Museum, also located in Museum Square, displays some of his most significant paintings including the celebrated Vase with Fifteen Sunflowers, which is among the most valuable works of art in the world. 

History Museums in Amsterdam

However, there is more to Amsterdam than great art.  Tourists can also visit historical museums, several of which concentrate on events during the 20th century.  The most famous historical site in Amsterdam is the Anne Frank House, where Anne and her family hid for several years during the Nazi occupation of her country.  Another site of great interest to those familiar with World War II history is the Verzetmuseum, which tells the story of the Dutch Resistance during the war.

There are certain things that you’ll need to know before booking your first cruise trip.  If you have friends who have taken a cruise and stay holiday before, you can ask them for recommendations of where they went and which cruise line they used.

It is important to know who is going on your cruise.  If your group will include toddlers, small children or seniors, then make sure the cruise line can accommodate them.  Keep in mind that some cruise lines are adult-only.  If you have a family, then look for a family-orientated cruise package.

Price is another factor that you’ll need to consider before booking your cruise.  Most travel agents recommend budgeting a reasonable amount of spending money per day for day trips.  The initial cost of accommodations can be reduced by taking cabins that sleep more people or by booking your cruise holiday early.  

Decide how many days you are planning for your cruise – this will help you to determine your destination. A short cruise will have you staying closer to home, whilst a two-week cruise could have you visiting new unexplored areas thousands of miles away.

Your cruise line will offer off-shore excursions and most of these will need to be booked ahead of time. Many will have limited spaces open, so booking early is advisable, especially if you have a certain place in mind to visit.

Once you have considered the above items, your next step is to contact your travel agent and get your cruise booked.  Agents can advise you on travel visas and required documentation, and can help make your holiday a great success.

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.

If you think cruise holidays are only for sun worshippers then think again!  If you enjoy adventure or have always hankered after journeying to the less-visited areas of our planet; if you’d like to see an iceberg close-range or watch arctic seals and polar bears in their natural environment, then a polar cruise is made for you. With great 2012 cruises out now, this is the time to snap up a cruise holiday bargain!

Where else can you combine first-class luxurious living with real time adventure pursuits like glacier climbing and ice trekking.  See the working husky dogs of Greenland and bathe in the hot springs of Iceland. Visit some of the most beautifully remote regions in the world. Sail inside the Arctic Circle. Take a helicopter trip and be overawed by the spectacular beauty of the northern lights in winter or the midnight sun in summer.  Visit the rarely seen arctic cliffs and remote villages all but hidden from the rest of the world and see working reindeer and dogs in a timeless way of life.  Or choose to cruise around the northern tip of Scandinavia for spectacular views literally from ‘the top of the world’.

With so many super value polar cruise holidays to choose from the only problem you will have is making up your mind. One of the most spectacular experiences must surely be standing on the deck watching your cruise ship breaking its way through sheets of thick ice, maybe passing by a polar bear or two or a group of arctic walrus.  To see the best of the wildlife and sea life it is best to visit in the summer during the short feeding and breeding season. For the keen photographer, the polar cruise offers a second-to-none opportunity to take the kind of pictures and video footage you have only seen on television.  Check out cruise deals 2012 and do it all for real on a polar expedition cruise.

A polar cruise is the ideal way to follow the intrepid explorers from years ago and see what they saw in this unchanged landscape but see it all from the comfort and safety of your cruise ship.

Cumbria’s Natural Beauty

Located in Cumbria in the north-west corner of England, the Lake District is an extremely popular holiday destination which attracts tens of thousands of visitors every year.  Renowned for its breathtaking natural scenery, this area offers an abundant ‘to do’ list for all visitors, from outdoor sports devotees and wildlife enthusiasts to those who simply love to relax and unwind.

The landscape around the lakes consists of mountainous tracts (including England’s highest summit, 978-metre Scafell Pike) and gently rolling hills.  Nestling between the hills are the numerous large expanses of water that give the area its name.  Many of these lakes offer excellent opportunities for water sports, including waterskiing and kayaking.  The less adventurous can enjoy day or evening cruises on several of the lakes.

The area offers many striking landmarks to explore.  There are mysterious ancient stone circles that harken back to the days of the druids, as well as fabulous waterfalls.  As you might expect from an area that has welcomed tourists for decades, there is an abundance of restaurants and tranquil pubs as well as shopping and entertainment venues, many of which offer unrivalled scenic views.

Center Parcs Whinfell Forest

Set at the very edge of the Lake District, Center Parcs Whinfell Forest is an ideal holiday resort destination.  Easily accessible via all the major roadways in the northwest, this area offers first-class accommodation and entertainment, and the forest itself is home to one of England’s last red squirrel colonies.  The resort offers accommodation options for all budgets, from luxurious lodges and villas to standard hotel rooms.  Once you have spent a day around the lakes, you can enjoy top cuisine in one of the resort’s many restaurants, visit the large ParcMarket, or indulge in a pampering spa treatment.

Lindeth Howe Country House Hotel

The Lindeth Howe Country House Hotel is a four-star accommodation option which overlooks Lake Windermere, the largest lake in England.  Once owned by children’s author Beatrix Potter, this beautiful hotel makes the perfect base from which to explore all that the Lake District has to offer.  The hotel can also help guests book organised tours of nearby castles and other historical attractions, including a visit to the remains of a Roman fort.

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.

There’s hardly any part of Italy that is not visited by holidaymakers. The Umbrian Region is one of medieval history that still carries through into the lives of those that live there. This part of Italy is exciting with its medieval castles, massive cathedrals, monuments and many fortresses. A visit here will have you leave with a great many photos and maybe even a souvenir bottle or two of the regions finest wines.

This area is one where ample time must be given to truly enjoy all that it has to offer. It can easily take a week or more to see the nearby towns and villages. Some of the more noted include Spello, Todi, Valle of Spoleto, Perugia, Gubbio and Assisi. This region of Italy is also unique for its surrounding landscape. Very few if any other areas have such mountainous countryside and as many flowing rivers and beautiful pastures as the Umbrian Region. With a great hilltop view visitors are able to see tiny villages and medieval towns dotted across the landscape.

Visitors who seek a very low-key holiday often head south to the Umbrian area of Monti Sibillini. Here, in the Piano Grande, is the country’s most distinctive landscape, offering a true place to get away from it all.