Vacations Blog

Whether you managed to grab Olympic tickets or not, it is hard to escape the excitement as London 2012 approaches. The stadiums may not be finished or the athletes warmed up, but London itself is already busy preparing. So make you sure book one of the remaining London hotels to be part of the fun and excitement too.

The 70-day Torch Relay kicks off on May 18^th when the famous Olympic Flame lands in the UK from its current residency of Greece. Before arriving at the Olympic Stadium on 27^th July, the flame will make an 8,000 mile cross country trip starting off at Land’s End, Cornwall. As well as the flame, 66 local events have been planned across the country to allow as many people as possible to join in the fun and, well, games. Book one of the cheap hotels nearby so you don’t miss out.

No international event would be complete without a great soundtrack and London 2012 will be no different, thanks to BBC Radio 1. As part of the UK-wide London 2012 Festival, Radio 1 will host its biggest ever, free ticketed live music event on Hackney Marshes between 23-24 June 2012. Incorporating six stages, the two-day event will welcome 100,000 people to witness acts such as Leona Lewis and Plan B. Acts from all over the globe and UK will perform, with over 80 different artists expected to be seen on stage. Make the most of the two-day event by booking one of the fantastic hotel deals in the area. 

You can also discover how the Games started. Visit ‘The Olympic Journey: The Story of the Games’ exhibition at the Royal Opera House from Friday July 27 2012 and you’ll be treated to an array of artifacts from the Olympic Museum in Lausanne. On display for the first time in London, the selection of graphics, film and historic exhibits chart the Olympics history from ancient to modern times.

Away from the raucous activity of the coast, Spain is populated by hundreds of tiny towns that offer an insight into Spanish communities. There are many nice day trips to be had away from your Costa Brava hotels and you’ll be able to experience a more authentic holiday by seeing the smaller hubs of humanity.

Sixty miles north of Barcelona, the municipality of Tossa de Mar is home to several small communities that should be visited. You’ll get a great insight into the history of Spain, as there is evidence of settlements dating back to the Neolithic era. One such town is the Villa Vella Enceinte, Catalonia’s only remaining fortified town, which dates back to around the end of the 14th century. Situated in the governor’s house, the Muncipal Museum provides an understanding of the importance and the history of Tossa de Mar through the ages. 

Learn a bit more about one of Spain’s most important artists, if you’re staying in one of the many Costa Dorada hotels by visiting Horta de Sant Joan. Picasso spent several years living here, and though he was eventually forced to leave by townspeople angry that he and his girlfriend were living together unmarried, Horta de Sant Joan now houses a museum dedicated to the Spanish artist.

Out of sight of the cheap hotels that litter the Costa del Sol, lies the small town of Gaucin in the Andalucian Mountains. This tiny, mountain top town was one of the last outposts of The Moors before they were driven from Spain. There are many interesting and scenic walks to be had around the local area and its white-washed buildings provide the iconic image of small-town Spain.

Cheap hotels are easy to find if you’re not on all-inclusive holidays. The much lauded AC Tarragona Hotel provides pleasant accommodation at a reasonable price and is located in Tarragona in the Costa Dorada, which was the birth place of Pontius Pilate.

The aim of Disneyland Paris is to create a world of wonderment for children and their families. With theme parks, rides and many other attractions, there is so much to see and do, even within the Disneyland hotels, but the entertainment also comes in to play within the Disney restaurants. Whatever you’re in the mood for you’ll find somewhere to get it, and have an exciting experience in the process.

Disneyland is an amazing place to take children, and even when ordering lunch, that Disney magic continues to delight. The Rainforest Cafe is a fun venue, with a jungle theme, and includes an aquarium entranceway in its many features. Not only does the decor look like a rainforest, but there are sounds playing as well to complete the overall effect. Fans of Toy Story will be keen to eat at Pizza Planet, which featured in one popular scene in the first film. With a playground and video games to keep children entertained, this is more than your average pizza joint. If you like your dinner entertainment more action-packed, take in a live show with your meal. One such option is Buffalo Bill’s Wild West show, where diners can enjoy a buffet meal and a live performance in the style of a spaghetti Western. Or step into the desert-island world of the Blue Lagoon, where palm trees hang above diners and the decor makes you feel like you’re in the Caribbean.

It’s not all about the children though – adults will find some high-class restaurants serving nouveau-cuisine if they feel like something fancier. There is the Steakhouse, which is a stylish warehouse-style restaurant in style of the Chicago steakhouses in the US. Linen tableclothes, wood-panel walls and silver cutlery accompany fantastic steaks. There is also Auberge de Cendrillon which is constructed to replicate a French country house, and the meals here are French style cuisine. You can even choose from some top Disney restaurants outside the main theme park. The many Disneyland hotels around or within the park also have their own, themed restaurants and cafes. However, if you would rather book one of the cheap hotels further afield, you will still be able to enjoy the massive range of eating places within the Disneyland theme park.

Ibiza, one of the Spanish Canary islands, boasts a well-earned reputation as the party capital of the world. The island’s capital is located in the southern part of the island and this is where most of the action centres around, as well as the town of San Antonio in the west. Many affordable and convenient Ibiza hotels can be found in these central locations. Everyone needs to sleep sometimes, however much you may intend to spend your holidays dancing until dawn. A typical day in Ibiza is usually spent hopping on the party bus in the evening to hit some of the big name Ibiza nightclubs, dancing until dawn and then getting a good rest in their cheap hotels before repeating the process again. Ibiza hotels offer plenty of amenities to weary revellers such as party buses, breakfast buffets, private pools and spa services.

Es Paradis

This Roman-themed San Antonio nightclub is best known for its Fiesta Del Aqua water parties, which take place several times a week throughout the summer months. On Fiesta Del Aqua nights the entire dance floor of Es Paradis transforms into a swimming pool. The club has one of the most eclectic music policies on the island, playing everything from Balearic house and trance to rock. When it is time to head back to your Ibiza hotels, watch for the opening of the Es Paradis Pyramid – a 120 foot ceiling that opens with the first rays of the sun.

Pure Pacha

With a 3,000 person capacity, this mega-club attracts tons of trendy Spanish and international clubgoers. The club’s glamorous, high-class vibe makes it an upscale place to spend a dressed-up evening out. The clubs main speciality is Balearic house music, but some variety is offered in its line-up. The dance floor sprawls across multiple levels of the club, while upstairs a terrace can be found.

Space

Space is a not-to-be-missed club experience, according to many Ibiza veterans. The vibe at the club is predominantly techno, although sometimes other musical variations can be heard. The club offers a huge room downstairs for the headliners, as well as a sunset terrace where you can chill for a bit before heading back to one of the of the cheap hotels.

Egypt is a land of mystery and promise. Its stretching desert full of wondrous treasures tempts travellers from right across the globe. The country’s impressive cities such as Cairo and Luxor are a great place to get involved in all the excitement, but for a more relaxing, seaside alternative many people turn to Sharm el Sheikh. As a purpose built coastal resort it offers the best of both worlds, from familiar beach holiday to thrilling desert experience. And to ensure the experience is both affordable and comfortable, there are plenty of good quality, cheap Sharm el Sheikh hotels on offer suitable for all types of traveller.

The Sharm el Sheikh region boasts one of Egypt’s most significant religious sites. It was near St Catherine’s Monastery in the desert that Moses first saw the burning bush before journeying up Mount Sinai nearby to receive the Ten Commandments. Visitors today can retrace Moses’ steps, either on foot themselves or with the help of a local camel.

For a further culture injection, visitors can book one of a selection of day trips or overnight trips to see the renowned and revered sites of central Egypt, from the Valley of the Kings in Luxor to the magnificent Sphinx and Great Temple of Giza in Cairo. These are just some of the wonders to be explored, of course, and when the sightseeing is over visitors can return to the comfort and seaside charm of one of the many Sharm el Sheikh hotels.

Thrill seekers wanting to experience another side to the desert will find plenty of excitement in Sharm el Sheikh. Renting a quad bike for an afternoon of adventure is easy and cheap, as is horse riding if that is preferred. Those wishing for a more authentic and prolonged desert experience can travel by camel through the Sinai’s secret valleys and hidden oases to the nearby and must-see natural features such as Coloured Canyon and, of course, Mount Sinai itself.

Hanging out in Sharm el Sheikh’s resort centre is always a treat with the many lively and reasonably priced restaurants, cafes, clubs, and shops. Most guides and merchants can be talked down in price, and there is plenty of good quality accommodation to be found, from bed and breakfast options to all inclusive Sharm el Sheikh hotels. Sharm is certainly a jewel, but happily it is an affordable one.

Spain is a wonderfully diverse country full of culture and history. From city breaks to beach holidays and historic haunts, the cities of Spain have something to offer anyone. There are plenty of great options when looking for accommodation as well, ranging for luxurious resorts to cheap hotels.

Ibiza is a great destination for those looking to combine Spanish culture with a beach holiday. This allows plenty of access to chic cafes, bars and restaurants – just as in the city – but also means you’re just a short walk away from the white sand beaches of Ibiza’s coastline. A hotel room on Ibiza would encourage you to leave the windows wide open, while the fresh Mediterranean breeze will have you off to wander down by the azure waters in no time

Granada is another great destination, as well as home to some great cheap Spain hotels.Granada is an excellent place for a college student to stay and study – being home as it is to the Granada University – making this a good travel destination for other college students. Granada is located at the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains and is a historically rich area. The region’s Alhambra Castle contains art and remains of Spanish history, and many important historical events have occurred there. To go to the Alhambra is a unique history lesson on Spain, and certain hotels in Granada even overlook the Alhambra castle.

Rich with history and culture, Madrid is a great city to visit on your Spanish break. Madrid is a city with very strong political, economic, and cultural importance. To spend time away from the hotel, visit the Puerta del Sol for food, drinks, and entertainment.

These cities are only a starting point for exploring Spain. A great way to decide where to go would be to have a look at hotels in Spain and see what you can afford. Wherever you choose, you’re sure to have a great holiday.

Those looking to combine a beach holiday with loads of historic sites should head straight to the shores of Sharm el Sheikh. The unique geography of Sharm is truly breathtaking with it’s desert sands, rugged mountain peaks and brilliant blue sea. Sharm is adventurous as it is beautiful, offering holidaymakers an endless list of activities. For the best rates on Sharm el Sheikh hotels, book early so that you can make sure to get the best room possible.

Underwater adventures

Holidaymakers looking for an underwater adventure will find that Sharm has some of the hottest diving spots in the world. Adventurous divers will enjoy exploring the coral reefs and shipwrecks in the over 250 diving spots located near the Sharm shores. Many well-preserved wrecks can be explored in the straits of Tiran and Marsa Alam, with many more thought to be as yet undiscovered. If you’re planning on spending plenty of time in the sea, it’s a good idea to book one of the many Sharm el Sheik hotels located directly on the coastline. Aside from being super convenient for your underwater excursion, you’ll also enjoy a stunning seaside view.

Out of water activities

If you would prefer to stay dry, there are plenty of activities on the sandy shores of Sharm. Windsurfing, sailing, snorkeling, parasailing, submarine tours, and dolphin watching are just some of the water-based entertainments on offer. Those who prefer to keep their feet on dry land can take advantage of the various restaurants, shops and other amenities close at hand.

While Sharm is perfect for the active holiday-goer, it’s also a great escape if you’re looking to just relax on the beach. The many beaches of Sharm el Sheikh are truly breathtaking. Plus nearly every hotel offers an onsite swimming pool, while many of the larger resorts hosting several, some of which even have water slides!

Whatever the preference, the wide range of affordable Sharm el Sheikh hotels available means that the destination and all its underwater mysteries can be enjoyed a reasonable price. Sharm is a piece of paradise that everyone can enjoy.

Tenerife in the Canary Islands is an ever popular choice for out of season sunshine. Holidaymakers looking for a winter break will be greeted by stunning sandy beaches, numerous activities and plenty of affordable Tenerife hotels as well as temperatures which remain above 20°C for most of the year round.

The perfect place to stay
The right accommodation can shape the course of an entire holiday – just as the wrong accommodation can. Fortunately, accommodation in Tenerife covers all tastes and budgets, so finding the perfect place to stay is super easy. From cheap hotels and self catering apartments to luxury resorts, there is something for every type of traveller.

Keeping everyone entertained
Tenerife offers holidaymakers a wide range of choices, so whether you’re travelling with family, friends, or a loved one, you’re sure to have a great time. Holidaymakers should be sure to experience the summit of Mount Teide as well as the brilliant scenery of Teide National Park along the journey. More family fun can be found at the various zoos, water parks and amusement parks on the island, and then of course there is the beach, where water sports, sunbathing and other beach activities will make for a very merry winter holiday all round.

De-stressing
De-stressing and forgetting the cares of daily life are what a holiday should be all about and Tenerife offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy some winter relaxation. Laying back in the sunshine on the beach is an obvious start, but for those needing a more intense de-stress there are spa facilities available at a number of the major Tenerife hotels.

Getting into the festive spirit
There is a great festive mood around Christmas so guests spending the holiday away from home will still feel in the spirit. Tenerife is a well established tourist destination meaning there is plenty of traditional Christmas spirit to be found on the island, from tinsel to turkey. The hotels in Tenerife will often offer special food and entertainment, while those yearning for a bit of Christmas snow may even find some on Mount Teide.

Creative Christmas presents
Those spending Christmas on the island should get creative with presents for a loved one. A scuba diving session, spa treatment, chance to swim with dolphins or a few hours horse riding through the Tenerife countryside could make an excellent gift and may even be something that couples or families can enjoy together, making memories for a lifetime.

Turkey has rocketed up the holiday charts as a serious and versatile contender. It’s not unusual to hear holidaymakers praise the country’s good variety of both luxury resorts and cheap hotels, which can be found for as little as under £5 per night. Meanwhile, thanks to the amazing deals being offered by some of Turkey’s all inclusive resorts, visitors can enjoy the best of both worlds with both luxury and great prices combined.

An example of one of the many hotels in Turkey offering five star luxury at a great price is the Concorde De Luxe Resort Hotel. This beachfront hotel is located in the capital of Antalya and its impressive range of accommodation and facilities is enough to mean guests never need to leave the resort. As an award winning option for travellers, this hotel was voted the ‘leading hotel in Turkey’ by Hotels4u.com and Medhotels.com at their recent awards ceremony.

For the best value for money, guests can choose the Concorde De Luxe all inclusive option. For around £350 two people can enjoy a standard room with land view for seven nights. The cost includes the chance to take full advantage of the hotel’s extensive dining facilities. The Turkish, Italian, English, Seafood and BBQ restaurants are just some examples of the choices onsite. Meanwhile, holidaymakers can enjoy unlimited locally produced drinks and a selection of imported beverages at one of the 12 bars available, including a tea house and vitamin bar.

The range of activities at the hotel for all ages is second to none. Just a few of the sporting and relaxation facilities include a Fitness Centre, Turkish Bath, Sauna, indoor swimming pool, Aquapark, mini golf course, non-motorized water sports gym, racket sports, and air gun shooting. All of these are complemented by a luxurious Spa with over 30 treatments. Meanwhile, kids can enjoy taking part in the mini club specifically designed for 4 – 12 year olds, with numerous activities and games on offer with qualified staff.

There is plenty more on offer besides. The Concorde De Luxe is a perfect example of the quality and value offered by many Turkey hotels.

If winter is getting you down then hitting the slopes for some seaonal sports is a sure fire way to build your spirits back up again. Whether you’re an expert skier or snowboarder or a complete novice time spent out on the mountains is sure to cure any winter blues. You can choose to share this sociable activity with family, friends or partners, but whatever your decision there are plenty of cheap hotels available at the moment in top resorts around the world to help make sure it’s an affordable trip.

Skiing and snowboarding can be enjoyed by the young and old alike. Now is the perfect time of year to learn how to ski if you haven’t already. As long as you are reasonably fit, you won’t have any worries learning this sport. Cheap hotels across Europe offer a great way to finance a fabulous winter break. In order to get a good price, look at some of the last minute deals on offer at the moment. From just £15 per person per night you can find a hotel to suit whatever your skiing needs may be.

If you’ve got a number of friends wanting to go with you, check out hotels that offer group rates. Skiing with friends can be a truly bonding experience – as can the après ski! If you’re looking for some après ski activity, you can enjoy your resort’s night-time hotspots or just relax with your mates after a long day.

As a romantic getaway, a few days on the slopes can be ideal. The gorgeous snow-covered mountains provide an excellent backdrop. Unwind after a long day of skiing with a romantic dinner and a relaxing soak in the hot tub.

Skiing is a great holiday that the entire family will enjoy. Enjoy a family breakfast before heading off in your own direction according to your experience. Then you can arrange to meet-up for a midday day meal, get some more time on the slopes in and then regroup for an evening of family fun. It will be easy to have fun and not let tensions rise if you ski at your own pace and partake in family activities before or afterwards. With endless resort options and cheap hotels across Europe, you may even consider making it a family tradition.