Travel Tips

Looking for a way to shift those extra pounds put on over Christmas? Well, one airline, is advocating skiing and snowboarding as the perfect way to whittle off the weight put on by festive feasting.

Apparently, whether you are an absolute beginner or a seasoned pro, each hour on the slopes provides a complete body work-out burning between 300-500 calories (source livestrong.com).

Skiing and boarding also improve aerobic fitness, strength, muscle tone, balance and agility.

Jet2, which offers flights to many ski destinations, has suggested the following ski fit tips to help make the most of your time on the slopes:

• Improve ski stamina with three 20 minutes sessions of uninterrupted cardio each week
• If cycling, running and other more traditional exercise regimes are not for you, try joining the Zumba craze to boost cardio fitness
• Biking, the cross trainer and step are great for building up leg strength
• Yoga or general stretching help with suppleness making your muscles more prepared
• Pilates and abdominal exercises help with core strength giving vital back support when you’re on the slopes
• Strengthen leg, bum and tum muscles with squats and knee raises
• Don’t forget to give shoulders and backs a boost to build core strength and help balance.

The airline also suggests taking care of mind, body and soul when you arrive by:

• Skiing away stress – clear your mind and whittle down your worries as you focus on overcoming the mountain terrain rather than everyday stresses
• Burning more calories – it doesn’t get much healthier than a ski trip. Burning calories and fresh clean air combined with exercise at high altitude means a better aerobic workout
• Getting a natural high – mountain air, magnificent views and exercise are great for releasing serotonin – making you feel happy and increasing natural immunity
• Stretching before and after is just as important on the slopes as it is in your pre trip regime
• Respect the environment – observe and follow the information and advice regarding your resort, be mindful of weather predicted, respect the boundaries of the piste unless you have experience and equipment for off-piste environments.

Ian Doubtfire, Managing Director of Jet2.com, said: “To be able to maximize enjoyment of the holiday and to avoid annoying aches and pains whilst away we recommend an exercise programme prior to hitting the slopes. At this time of year many people are looking to rid themselves of extra inches accumulated over the festive period and getting fit to ski provides a great way to recover from over indulgences.”

In these tough economic times it seems that our budgets are being squeezed from all directions. The rising cost of food, fuel and limits on wage increases mean that there has never been a more important time to keep control of our spending, particularly when it comes to taking a holiday.

When you book flights and accommodation you know what the price is, however, it can be difficult to know how much the rest of your holiday will cost. It’s hard to know how much spending money you will need and how cheap or expensive food, drink and activities will be at your resort. While you can always take a look at online resort reviews and talk to travel agents, a good way to keep control of your holiday spending is to take an all inclusive holiday.

All-inclusive holidays have been around for many years and originally were only available to far-flung destinations and luxury destinations. These days, there are many types of all inclusive holidays available. In fact, the market for all-inclusive is expanding – recent research by Mintel showed that between 2004 and 2009 the all-inclusive holiday market had increased by 32%.

So what are the benefits of all-inclusive holidays and who are they suitable for?

• All-inclusive holidays are suitable for all sorts of budgets, from economy to luxury, and many types of travellers including families and those looking for activity holidays
• When booking an all inclusive holiday you know at the outset what your holiday will cost as the price usually includes flights, in resort transfers, hotel accommodation, meals and unlimited local drinks
• As most things are included in the price of the package, you won’t be affected by fluctuating currency – it won’t matter if the value of sterling goes up or down
• With meals included, you don’t have to worry about where you are going to eat, you can just relax and enjoy your holiday.

Things to watch out for:

• Be aware that most all-inclusive holidays only provide free local drinks – usually branded drinks are available at an additional charge
• Although you may have a choice of on-resort / in-hotel restaurants to eat in, if you do venture outside your resort and wish to eat there, you will have to pay for food and drink if you choose to eat outside your resort
• In a growing holiday market, there’s a whole host of companies providing all types of inclusive holiday packages, so when booking an all inclusive holiday, check what is and isn’t included in the price – some packages include activities, some include late-night, out-of-hours snacks and some packages even include branded drinks.

Always ask your travel agent or check online before booking an all inclusive holiday.

From balmy temperatures to the magic of a Greek Orthodox Christmas, there’s as much to tempt visitors to Cyprus during the months of December and January as at any other time of year.

Just a four-hour flight from the UK, a break in Cyprus remains a popular mid-winter retreat with visitors from Britain – 136,000 Brits alone visited the island last winter.

Twelve of the top winter highlights for visitors to experience in Cyprus over Christmas and the New Year:

1. Winter warmth
   Average winter daytime temperatures throughout Cyprus rarely dip below 20°C and with 340 days of sunshine a year there are still plenty of rays to catch throughout December and January. Balmy temperatures mean winter can be one of the best times to explore all the island has to offer.
2. Christmas Day dip
   Adventurous beach lovers can even enjoy the island’s beautiful blue-flag beaches year-round with sea temperatures remaining in the high-teens throughout the Christmas and New Year period – perfect for an invigorating Christmas Day dip!
3. Traditional Cypriot Christmas
   Christmas (pronounced Christouyenna in Greek) is celebrated with plenty of delicious Cypriot food and the honouring of age-old traditions. Unique to the region is the habit of hanging crosses wrapped in basil and sprinkled with holy water on the front door of a house to ward off the Goblin-like spirits known as ‘kallikantzari’, which are said to make mischief during the twelve days of Christmas.
4. Marvel in seasonal Byzantine spectaculars
   Christmas is marked in towns and villages across the island with magical processions, usually accompanied by carols, called “kalanda”, which have been handed down from generation to generation since Byzantine times. The major festival on Christmas day is held in Nicosia in Eleftheria (Freedom) Square, while one of the most dramatic services is held in Larnaca on 5 January, when young swimmers dive for a cross, only to return it to the priest.
5. Make merry with live performance and song
   Cyprus has a colourful year-round cultural scene and winter is no exception. Special concerts and events take place across the island, from local bands, choirs, orchestras, dancers and groups through to Viva Verdi – Moscow New Opera in Rialto, Liamssol (22 December). Nicosia’s Eleftheria Square is one of the main places to catch live acts with performances everyday from 17 – 30 December. At the entrance of the Pafos Mosaics near the harbour there is free entertainment every Sunday.
6. Treat your tastebuds
   The heart of every Cypriot home is the kitchen so food plays a major role in the Cypriot Christmas celebrations. Loaves of Christopsomo (Christ Bread), normally accompanied by dried figs, nuts and honey, are eaten on Christmas Eve. Familiar dishes such as stuffed turkey, roast chicken and roast lamb are traditionally served on Christmas day. Also very popular are the traditional cakes such as ‘kourabiedes’, a delicious small almond cake coated in icing sugar, ‘melomakarona’, a traditional honey cake, and ‘finikia’, a kind of walnut pie.
7. A taste of home
   For those for whom Christmas would not be Christmas without a proper dinner with all the trimmings, most hotels also observe UK traditions as well, with festive decorations and traditional British fare.
8. Celebrate New Year, Cyprus-style
   New Year is an important date for families in Cyprus. The 1st January marks the Feast of St Basil, the region’s equivalent to St Nicholas, and the day is the main date for present giving. Some of the best parties on New Year’s Eve are around the town hall in downtown Limassol, but most big hotels also host parties. No visitor should celebrate New Year in Cyprus without a taste of Vassilopitta, or Saint Basil’s cake, baked with a silver or gold coin to bring good luck to the person who finds it.
9. Won’t break the bank
   During the winter season accommodation costs in Cyprus are at their lowest. Shopping around should see lower flight costs as well, especially if you can be flexible with your travel dates. Many bars and restaurants in the island’s main tourist destinations offer discounted rates out of season, but with the same excellent levels of service you would expect in the summer months.
10. Drive time
    Car hire is also exceptional value at this time of year. With a two-day hire from as little as €30, visitors have the perfect excuse to explore the island under their own steam. The Cyprus Tourism Organisation has teamed up with the Travel Foundation to create 6 self-drive routes guiding visitors to some of the most beautiful and special parts of the hidden rural interior of the island.
11. Boutique wineries
    Six wine routes crisscross the island, taking in some of the best of the 40 or so boutique wineries which have sprung up on the island in recent years. Cypriot wine production dates back almost 5,000 years. Numerous boutique wineries with modern facilities have sprung up in the last 5 years. Highlights include local xinisteri and mavro grapes or the delicious Commandaria sweet white.
12. Return in better health than when you left
    Wellbeing holidays are one of the fastest-growing areas of the tourism industry in Cyprus. The island has seen a number of exciting new high quality spas and health farms open in recent years. With its year-round good climate and varied terrain, Cyprus offers every kind of activity and opportunity, from hiking and cycling to intense yoga stays and relaxing spa breaks. Added to this are treatments indigenous to the island, such as the chance to be immersed in the healing waters at Ayii Anargyri.

With the BBC reporting that a ‘New Icelandic volcano eruption could have global impact’: www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-15995845 Moneymaxim.co.uk, the website which specialises in Travel Insurance covering natural disasters and travel disruption, comments:

Mark Bower, Managing Director of Moneymaxim, said: “Scientists and experts believe that the Katla volcano in Iceland could soon erupt, indicating that there has been 500 tremors in the last month alone. The potential devastation for Iceland could be catastrophic, with any resulting volcanic ash cloud bringing the world’s aviation to a halt.

“Ever since the initial Icelandic eruption in the Spring of 2010 we have been tracking Travel Insurers who will cover the impact of major travel disruption caused by Natural Disasters, including Volcanic Explosions.

“Many of those who did provide cover for the original incident no longer do so, whilst others have developed specific policies covering major travel disruption.

“However with every eruption we get calls from travellers who have left it too late to buy their insurance and are facing significant financial losses if their airport were to close. Whilst there are policies that can be bought after an eruption has occurred they have significant limitations and we definitely recommend buying now and then being safe in the knowledge you are protected if the worse happens.”

Visitors to the UK today, 30 November 2011, could experience disruption and delays due to border agency staff joining other public sector workers in strike action over pension reforms.

Ports and airports are set to be affected with Gatwick warning of ‘significant delays’ and Heathrow has contacted airlines requesting that they reduce load factors to alleviate pressure on border checks.

The UK Border Agency (UKBA) has said that it has robust plans in place to maintain the security of the border.

Tips to help avoid delays when passing through border control today:

• Use e-Passport gates where available
• Have travel documents, including passports, ready
• Fully complete landing cards
• Stay in family groups.

Going on a gap year can be a daunting experience, particularly if you’ve never been away from home for an extended period. Below are 7 tips that will hopefully make your gap year travel experience a little easier and learn some key tips before you leave…

1. Speak to Locals
   Speaking to locals is a great way to find out the inside line on the place you are visiting, as well as immersing yourself deeper in the local culture. The more locals you speak to, the more likely you are to find the hidden gems which aren’t mentioned in a guide book.
2. Eat Street Food
   People often turn their nose up at street food, but in many countries it is the most delicious food there is and the cheapest too. And it’s a great opportunity to speak to some locals!
3. Take Photos of Friends and Family
   You’ll undoubtedly get a bit homesick at some point on your trip so it’s always nice to have some photos with you. They’re also a great talking point with local folks where you can give them a glimpse into your life at home.
4. Always have a Toilet Roll in Your Bag!
   You’d be surprised how difficult it is to find toilet roll in some countries so it’s always handy to have one tucked away in your bag. You also might not be near a toilet at all and need to go ‘au natural’ (possible after some street food)!
5. Keep in Touch
   It’s important to keep those at home up to date with your trip so they know you’re safe. They’ll miss you and want to know what you’re up to which is easy to forget when you’re out having fun.
6. Test Local Transport
   Local modes of transport are a great, cheap way to get around. But they’re also unpredictable so if you’re thinking of going on a local bus, jumping in a tuk tuk or hopping on a motorbike make sure you give them a thorough check first and ensure the drivers are qualified and in a fit state of health.
7. Enjoy it!
   It’s easy to forget that this is a once in a lifetime experience and take it for granted when you’re there. The key is to enjoy every second, throw yourself into everything and grab every opportunity that comes along. The more you do that the more you’ll get out of the experience.

This is a guest post from Tom at Top Backpacking Destinations.

Edinburgh is a stunning city with so much to see and do it’s hard to know where to start. No matter how many times you’ve visited you can always go back for more and keep enjoying yourself. There is a fantastic array of pubs and bars, a vibrant shopping scene and some breathtaking architecture on show.

So if you’re a first time visitor and short of time then what should you be sure to see? What are the must see sights? I’ve picked out 3 favourites below that should never be left off the ‘to do’ list…

1. Climb a volcano!
   A volcano? In Edinburgh? That’s right. And it’s a must visit. Climb to the top of Arthur’s Seat, the tallest of Edinburgh’s hills for a lesson in geology and to experience this unique attraction. Make sure you stop off at Our Dynamic Earth to get the full lowdown.
2. Hit the Festival
   Edinburgh Fringe Festival brings together the best entertainment from around the world as comedians in particular step into the spotlight to be judged and attempt to elevate their career to the next step. For the visitor this brings a never ending supply of shows to go to and be entertained and the city during this period is more vibrant than ever.
3. Count down to New Year
   Hogmanay is another time when the city comes to life and the experience for a visitor is taken to the next level. Pick from one of the many luxury apartments in Edinburgh to use as your base and escape from the madness and then prepare yourself for a party like nowhere else. With people everywhere you look, entertainment around every corner and a non stop stream of drinks on tap it’s difficult to not have a fantastic time. Just make sure you keep an eye on the clock…

This is a guest post from Tom at Top Backpacking Destinations, a travel blog with information and tips from around the globe.

Cape Town is an incredible city and one which can keep you entertained for days, weeks and months on end. Holidaymakers visit throughout the year to enjoy what the city has to offer, soaking up the sea, mountains and culture.

We all know about Table Mountain, safaris and the world cup stadium, but what else is there to do? Below I share my top 5 ‘insiders’ tips on what to do during your stay in Cape Town which are slightly lesser known…

1. Go Wine Tasting in Constantia
   15 minutes drive from the city is a fantastic place to go wine tasting and enjoy the stunning grapes this region has to offer. Save the big trip all the way to Stellenbosch and stay in touching distance of town.
2. Hit the surf in Llandudno
   Whilst the masses flock to Camps Bay, pick up your board and buck the trend at Llandudno. This is where the pros head and has much better waves than Camps Bay. It’s also close to town, has a beautiful beach and a great community feel.
3. See Lions Head at Dawn
   Most people will go up to Lions Head to see the sun go down and get a beautiful sunset. That’s the best time right? Wrong. Get yourself up there before daybreak and you might well be able get a private showing of the city being enlightened. It’s worth the early start to sample this stunning view in quiet surroundings rather than amongst the usual tourist crowds which flock there for sun down.
4. Rock Climbing in Silvermine
   Silvermine National Park is a gorgeous area and how better to enjoy it than from above! Get your adrenaline pumping on the side of a cliff and then turn around and soak up the glorious views for miles around. It doesn’t get much better.
5. Visit a Township for a Braai
   But what’s a Braai I hear you shout! Braais are huge BBQs that are put on in the townships when everyone gets together and has a massive party. Loud music blares out the speakers, masses of meat gets toasted and everyone has fun. All you need to do I bring your own food and beers and soak up the atmosphere.

This is a guest post from James at Come to Cape Town, a Cape Town travel guide. You can follow the latest updates on Twitter and Facebook.

London is a notoriously expensive city. Certainly, the cost of living can be very high in the city centre, and if you have lots of cash to part with, there’s no end of ways to spend it – fancy dinners, theatre shows, shopping – but it’s perfectly possibly to visit London on a small budget. Let’s take a look at accommodation options to suit all budgets…

Shoestring

Perhaps you’re travelling round the great cities of Europe, or simply want a few days in an exciting city. Either way, the first piece of advice to visitors on a small budget is this: don’t stay too long. Even if you stay in hostels, a week in London can easily drain you of your money pretty quickly. 3-4 days will suffice, unless you have friends you can stay with. If not, the city has hostels all over the place, including sought-after areas like Bloomsbury and South Kensington. A hostel in London usually costs between 20-40 pounds per night.

Mid Budget

If you’re happy to spend around 100 pounds per night, you can easily find some very pleasant hotels in the city. Check online, as you may find some heavily discounted rooms, potentially turning your 100 pound per night rate into a luxury hotel, or at the very least cutting the cost significantly. Discounts are especially prevalent at this time of year, so browse the web thoroughly before committing to anything.

Lap of Luxury

If it’s luxury you’re after, London’s West End boasts a number of world-class hotels. Mayfair, Knightsbridge, Kensington – all stunning locations to stay in. Try Millennium Hotels for some amazing Kensington hotels, such as the gorgeous Millennium Gloucester Hotel and the Bailey’s hotel. Undoubtedly two of the finest Kensington hotels, these converted Georgian townhouses are steeped in history, and drip with money. Visit the Millennium Hotels (by clicking the link above) for more West End hotels.

Spending a weekend break anywhere is fun, but a city break in Glasgow offers loads to do and a chance to see one of Scotland’s finest cities.

There are a wide variety of places to stay in Glasgow from hotel chains to youth hostels offering a cheap night’s lodgings, and wonderful five star hotels where you’ll be living the life of luxury during your stay.  You could even opt for a self catering apartment.  Whatever you choose, picking somewhere that’s right in the heart of Glasgow will give you the best opportunities for seeing this city during your stay.

For anyone who enjoys visiting museums Glasgow has a wealth of museums for you to explore.  There is the Gallery of Modern Art, Scotland Street School, The Burrell Collection, Pollock House, Riverside Museum, Open Museum and many more, and all these which are run by the council are free to enter meaning you don’t have to worry about overspending or getting your money’s worth.  Glasgow is even home to the world’s first Museum of Religion.

For many people, dinner and a show is a must here in Glasgow, there’s a pretty good theatre scene with a number of different venues you can choose between including the Theatre Royal, Kings Theatre, Tron Theatre and Citizens Theatre and all offer a wide range of different shows throughout the year.  Dining out here can be as varied as you like really, there are plenty of bars and restaurants to choose from, and most of those nearby to any of the theatres will offer a pre-theatre menu if you’re eating early so you don’t miss your show.

Alternatively you could indulge in a little music.  The Glasgow Royal Concert Hall is very popular, as are the Barrowlands Ballroom and Carling Academy, and each offers some quite different musical styles.

Shopping in Glasgow city centre may help complete your visit, and there’s plenty to choose from with high street stores and designer labels as well as boutiques and specialty outlets.  Some of the best shopping can be found around the Italian Centre, and Merchant Square.

Travelling around Glasgow is nice and easy.  The city is laid out with the streets in a grid style system so it’s quite easy to find your way around on foot.  If you do fancy hopping on a bus however, you can purchase an all day bus ticket which will give you access to all routes across the city no matter how many times you hop on and off.  There’s also a pretty good underground system here too where you can get an all day ticket as well, and there are plenty of taxis for hire if you prefer something that will take you door to door.

Charles Rennie Mackintosh had a great hand in the architecture of Glasgow, and some of his most famous buildings are right here such as the Light House and the Huntarian both of which offer free entry.  Taking a walk round this stunning city you’ll see examples of many Victorian, Edwardian and Georgian buildings that are well worth seeing.  Alternatively, you could hop on a city sight seeing tour bus where all the most important features will be pointed out to you enroute.