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Category: Trekking
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Some Naked Bikes Sighted in the Streets of Vietnam
You've probably never heard the term or you actually own one. This is the nature of naked bikes. A new term defined by light weight minimal high powered motorbikes. For the novice, they're basically an engine on two wheels. Therein lies the beauty - and fun - of a naked bike. Minimal and sexy frames with large engines. Is there any greater sight than a mean sexy naked bike on the streets of Ho Chi Minh or Hanoi? Probably not. Naked bikes are relatively cheap considering the sex appeal and the engine size. New riders will find them appealing for their thinner frames and price points, while experienced riders will enjoy the refreshing look compared the motorbikes they have rode for years.
Popular Models in Vietnam
Some popular models you'll find in the speciality shops in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City include CBR150 will retails for 69 million VND. Then there's the more technical Yamaha FZ-07 which can be grabbed for a cool 156 mil VND. And the granddaddy of naked motorbikes seen in Vietnam is the Ducati Monster which you can pick up here for around 190 Mil VND on the low end. Now before you click away at disgust of these price points consider: there are some dealers who allow for single day rentals of Naked bikes in Hanoi and HCMC.
Reasons to Love Naked Motorbikes in Vietnam
There's a litany of reasons to say that naked bikes are the true pleasure of modern street riding in Vietnam. With the tight turns and quick acceleration to get ahead of the cloud of sputtering noisy traffic and just the sheer fashion and sex appeal, the naked bike is the leader on the streets. Power and handling is the main consideration for any rider whether they are experienced or a novice. The naked bike are known for their light weight, quick and have a low rake which makes it easier to aggressively cut through corners. What it comes down to is for the most part, Vietnam is a country for riding in the cities. The experience of riding a naked bike in Vietnam can be distilled into the essence of street riding. With the traffic getting worse and worse in the cities here it might be an option when you want to upgrade the lifestyle. Cars might be comfortable in terms of weather exposure but if your commute is less than 30 minutes, and for most who live in HCMC or the capital city of Hanoi, it makes sense to consider these elegant and angular creatures for everyday transportation. What do you think of naked bikes? Are you willing to give it a shot? Or is the price point a major obstacle? Let us know in the comments.
3 Tips For Traveling With an Anxiety Disorder
Living day to day with anxiety issues can be difficult, to say the least. The constant parade of "what ifs," "I wonder what they meant by that," and "why did that take so long," is enough to drive someone to the edge. Those of us with anxiety are perpetually in a state of defense. This barrage of fears wears thin on our intellect, self esteem, and our confidence. Most of us learn through trial and error what we can handle and what we can't and have discovered the path of least resistance. However, traveling is a whole new ball game in many aspects. So, here are a few cheat codes that will help you travel more peacefully. Have A Plan Many of us love the thought of a road trip or spending the week at the beach, but taking a trip with anxiety seems like an impossible task to someone who can't help but overanalyze everything. At home, we have our routines and familiar surroundings. We know where to go and what to do when we feel overwhelmed or the onslaught of a panic attack. Everything is right there. One of the ways to combat anxiety issues on the road is to make sure there is a plan. If you can, you should plan every day of your trip to the best of your ability. You need to know where you're going to stop on the way there and back and what you want to accomplish each day, even if it's just sitting by the beach all day. This eliminates a lot of the questions about the day allowing you to concentrate more on relaxation and having fun. Stick to It After you have worked out your plan for the trip, do your absolute best to stick to it. Unpredictability is a panic attack's best friend. If you have things that you know might have a good possibility of changing or getting canceled altogether, make sure to plan backups. This will relieve a lot of the stress uncertainty brings. Remember not to pressure yourself too badly to follow things to the letter. As we know, this too, can cause problems for those with anxiety issues. Bring Your Comfort There are a few things that all of us who deal with anxiety gave in common. We all have certain things, events, or situations that trigger our issues, but we also have things or habits that we know help us to center ourselves in the middle of a crisis. For some, it's a cold rag on the back of their neck and a dark room. Some carry comfort objects such as a pillowcase, a stuffed animal, or a specific song. Still, others have comforting habits like counting, singing, or washing the dishes. The point is to make sure whatever your comfort mechanism is follows you on your trip. This way, should a situation get to be too much to handle, you can retreat until you are centered and can do it in a way you are already accustomed to. Anxiety is troublesome, but doesn't have to hold you back from doing what you want and spending time with those you love.
The 3 Best Stories of Senior Travel Around the Globe
Are you an older adult looking to travel around the globe in your retirement years? Your golden years don't have to be spent staying indoors in the same place where you raised your children! You can travel and see the world instead! There are multiple senior travel groups that you can choose from such as your college alumni association, travel agent groups, or National Geographic expeditions. If you think you might be too old to go traveling the world, then you just might need to read the following stories and learn about three exciting stories from travelers in their golden years. Let's get right into it! One woman traveled for a decade Sherill, a 72-year-old woman, decided to pack up her life completely after raising her children and retiring, according to the publication Nomadic Matt. At 62 years old, Sherill began traveling the world and hasn't stopped yet! The senior read a book called '1,000 Places to See Before You Die' and decided to follow through to visit all the locations in the book. First, Sherill went to Mexico and was planning to stay for three months. The trip ended up lasting three years instead! One tip that Sherill has is to make sure you have health insurance for travel and have your medical information on hand. One couple in their 70s sold their house to travel Don and Alison weren't sure whether or not to stay put in their house or try to live a life of travel. They eventually decided to move away from traditional ways and sold their house in order to travel the globe. This 70-year-old couple has traveled through Europe as well as India. The couple also saw their family in Australia and visited South East Asia along with Mexico. One older couple saw Panama Two senior citizens, a husband and wife, went to Panama and loved it! It's easy to see why - the greenery along with the hills and valleys will take your breath away and you may even see a herd of cattle as you make your way up a mountain. Traveling to Panama for senior citizens is definitely an excellent idea. We hope that these stories have given you a reason to consider traveling in your golden years. Remember that some senior citizens have been traveling for years to amazing destinations like Panama, Europe, and Australia and even further afield. You might want to do the same!
How Do Waves Work?
If you're looking to indulge in a spot of surfing this year, then you'll want to spend a few moments considering the science of how waves form.That way you'll have a more thorough understanding of why waves behave in the way they do, and how to get the best from them.Let's take a look at how and why waves form, and what the difference between the various types of them are.
What's a swell?
When you first start surfing, one of the first terms you'll encounter is the term 'swell'. This is refers to the ocean moving up and down, which is what creates the energy of the wave.While the pull of the moon is what gets the water moving in the first place, some of this energy is either reinforced or cancelled out by wind blowing against the surface. The ocean swell is influenced by a few different factors, which ultimately determine why some beaches are battered by hundred-foot waves, and some don't receive any waves at all.Let's run through them.
Strong winds out at sea will transfer energy into the water, creating a larger swell.If there's an especially strong storm out in the ocean, then the swell can be up to a thousand feet deep.When the waves finally arrive at the beach, they'll be co-ordinately larger – but many of the bigger swells will break before this happens.
Wind duration
Even if the wind in question isn't quite as powerful, it can still contribute significantly to the size of the swell if it's blowing for long enough.
The fetch refers to the distance over which the wind blows in the same direction.Of course, air is lighter than water, and it can change direction far more easily.If the wind suddenly veers in a different direction, it'll cease to re-enforce the movement of the water beneath it.
Water depth
If there's more ocean to play with, then the swell can grow accordingly larger.That's why the deepest swells occur many miles away from the coast in the majority of cases.
What happens as swells make their way toward shore?
When a swell reaches shallow water, they begin to release their energy.They begin to break as they reach shallow water, as the water beneath the top of the wave will suddenly run into ground, slowing it down relative to the water at the top.The swell will bend in a process called 'refraction'; the ultimate shape of the wave will depend on the geography of the ocean floor. Generally speaking, the waves you'll notice while surfing will come in one of two forms.Imagine you're looking at the wave from above.If it runs into shallow water in one section, then that section of the wave will slow down relative to the ones on either side, which will bend inwards toward the shore to form a concave shape.Conversely, if the wave encounters headland on either side, it'll do the opposite, forming a convex wave.The latter are generally less powerful, but provide a longer ride as it takes longer for the energy to dissipate.
What types of break are there?
The breaks themselves are what causes the wave to be suitable for surfing.They come in three categories, each with their own distinctive characteristics.
These are the waves that break on sandbars.They're the logical starting point for novice surfers, as you don't need to venture out into deep water in order to find them.But they're also short-lived, as they barely have time to form before they crash against the sand.
Reef Breaks
These breaks occur when the swell encounters a coral reef, a little further out at sea.They tend to be a great deal more predictable than other sorts of break, as the location of the reef tends to be static over time.As such, they offer a consistent experience which surfers will reliably return to.
Point Breaks
A point break is the sort that the film is named after.They occur when the swell encounters a point – an area of land that sticks out from the shore.When a swell hits a point in the right way, it'll create an incredible wave with a long ride.Some of the world's most celebrated surfing locations offer a point break.
Where's the best place to surf?
The world is packed with prime surfing locations, but the best areas are to be found around the pacific.Bali, Hawaii, California, Australia and New Zealand are all celebrated, which is why emigrating to Australia is a common move for passionate surfers.There exist many beach-related jobs in Australia – secure one and you'll be able to enjoy the surf every day!
Location Concerns and Traveling To Find Your First House
If you're looking to purchase your first house as an adult, then you are going to have some location concerns. Depending on your budget and your plans for family and career, you may have to travel to find a house to purchase. If you restrict yourself to where you already live, or where your parents live, then you're missing out on lots of opportunities. During the process of finding your first house away from your current location, you have to think about what your loan potential is, and then it also makes sense to read reviews about local stores and restaurants in an area. If you can look at Google's Street view to check out a neighborhood, that's a positive. And you also want to pay attention to long-term weather forecasts for specific areas. Loans for First-Time Buyers Getting home loans for first-time buyers is a little bit different than other types of loans you get in your life. Especially if you plan on traveling out of state from where you currently live, you may feel particularly overwhelmed. Hopefully, you'll have a support network of people that are willing to give you tips on how they made it through this first process so that you won't make the same mistakes they did. Reading Local Reviews Reading Yelp reviews about specific areas can help you when it comes to choosing a location for your first home as well. If you find a great house, but then find out that all of the places nearby are rated poorly, you may want to think twice about that area. Ideally, you'll find a place to live where the closest restaurants and shops all have good ratings, and people appreciate different aspects of living near them. Google Street View Capability If you check out Google Street view, then you know what a great resource that is if you're looking to buy a house in a new area. You can type in an address, and then with a few clicks of a mouse, you can have a 360° view of everything nearby. You can even take virtual trips from one home to another and get an updated view of a neighborhood. Absorb Long-Term Weather Forecasts For first-time homebuyers, especially if you plan on traveling to this new location, you want to be aware of long-term weather forecasts. If you're not ready to live somewhere that gets very cold or very hot, then you don't want to be surprised when the season changes after you've purchased a house, and suddenly you're miserable. Just a short search online to tell you everything that you need to know about weather extremes, but it's a step you should take before you get too committed to a place.
3 Tips For Going On Your First Island Vacation
One of the best ways to spend your time on a vacation is soaking up the sun and laying out on a beach while listening to the waves crash on the shore right below you. And while you can experience this at any beach, being on an island far away from home can often feel like something out of a dream. But for many people, this dream vacation hasn't been turned into reality yet. So if you've been wanting to take an island vacation but haven't made it happen in the past, here are three tips for going on your first island vacation. Be Careful With Food and Water On many islands throughout the world, the infrastructure of the area might not be as developed as what you're used to. Because of this, you're going to want to be very careful with what foods and drinks you partake in. According to Trisha Creekmore, a contributor to Travel Channel, you should try to only drink beverages that come in a sealed bottle or container. This will help to ensure that you're not drinking unsafe tap water that could make you sick. Additionally, try to avoid eating food from street vendors or eating food that you can't be certain was cooked thoroughly. Bring A Small Tote Bag With You Since you'll have to fly to your final destination of your beach vacation, you're likely going to have to find the right balance of how much luggage to bring and pay for on your flight. But while you might be trying to limit the amount of things you're taking with you and how much space you're filling up, Robert Curley, a contributor to Trip Savvy, recommends that you pack an empty tote bag to bring with you. This will make it so much easier to take your beach essentials with you from your hotel room. And because tote bags are easy to carry and clean, you won't have to worry about dragging your possessions through the sand or getting sand in places that are hard to remove. Protect Your Valuables From Water Damage Spending your vacation on an island means that you're going to have almost all of your activities take place on or near the water. Because of this, you're going to want to be careful that any electronics or valuables you bring with you won't get damaged or destroyed by the water. To help with this, TheDailyMeal.com advises that you bring either a waterproof case or some sandwich bags that you can put your valuables in order to keep water off of them. If you're going to taking your first island vacation soon, consider using the tips mentioned above to ensure that you have a great time on this adventure.
How to Choose the Best Yoga Retreat
Everyone needs to get away on occasion as a way to recharge and rejuvenate. The many demands that life can bring essentially drain you both physically and mentally. You realize that your all work and no play mentality is starting to affect you. So, you decide to go on a yoga retreat. You've read about them before and believe it could be just what you need to have some time to yourself.
The only problem is, there are so many different retreats you have no idea how to choose the one best for you. Like most things, not all are created equally. So, before you start packing your non slip yoga socks, matching yoga pants, mats, and other gear, use these factors to find the best option for you.
Price - Affordability has to be at the top of the list. Though your health and well-being are worth splurging on occasionally, if it's going to ruin your budget and cause greater stress when you return home, it's not worth the investment. Determine how much you can spend on a retreat and look for options within that price range.
Location - Yoga retreats are literally hosted all around the world. The first question you should be asking is where you'd like to travel to. If you prefer the hot sun and sandy beaches then you'd look for destinations in tropical islands. However, if you're more of a mountaintop and nature person, you might prefer something a bit more rugged.
Type of Yoga - For those who weren't aware there are several types of yoga that can be practiced on a retreat. You need to select a program based on the type of yoga you're most familiar or comfortable with doing.
Teacher - The instructor can make all the difference on a retreat. Once you've narrowed down some options, make sure that you do your homework on the yoga instructor. How long have they been teaching yoga, what techniques do they use, and more importantly, what do others have to say about them and their style?
Activities and Accommodations - You aren't going to be practicing yoga the entire time you're on vacation, so make sure you consider other things to do on or near the resort. Are you looking for more luxurious accommodations where you can request room service, have gourmet meal service, and get a full body massage? Or are you looking for an adventure like hiking through a rainforest and camping?
Expectations - What are you looking to get out of this retreat? Are you interested in relieving stress, personal growth and development, weight loss and exercise, proper nutrition, or just looking for a stress-free vacation? You'll want to review the retreat website to find out what their main objectives are so that you choose one that best aligns with your goals.
You'd be surprised how much a yoga retreat can change your life for the better. It's an opportunity to go on a stress-free vacation that gives you the support, resources, and tools to relieve stress and work on areas of your life that you want to improve. It's a time to unwind, unplug, destress, and connect with nature and those around you. Use the above-mentioned tips to find the perfect yoga retreat for your health and fitness needs.
Being Cautious When You Plan a Spontaneous Trip
Many people enjoy going on a spontaneous trip. They enjoy having adventures, freedom with being able to travel, and having an adventure. However, even with an unplanned trip, a few things should still be done to ensure the trip is a success. A spontaneous road trip is extremely exciting if everything goes smoothly.
1. Make sure your car is road worthy
If you are going to drive, make sure your car is safe to drive. If it is going to be a long trip of over 200 miles, stop in to get it inspected. Go through a vehicle safety checklist and make sure that all of the options are checked. Additionally, make sure your car is properly insured. If the current policy seems inadequate for a road trip, quickly search for car insurance online to get a new one in place immediately.
Keeping up on maintenance is also important, as well as being prepared for roadside emergencies. Does the oil need to be changed? Is there enough air in the tires? Do you have a phone charger and emergency first aid kit? These are all excellent things to consider before agreeing to take an unplanned trip.
2. Check your work plans before taking a vacation
If you're planning on taking time off work, make sure that you check with your boss and make sure it's okay. Some companies require you to request a vacation in advance.
3. Look up potential routes to see if there is road construction or traffic
Doing a bit of research beforehand will ensure that you are able to be safe when you are traveling. This will help you know the best way to take and avoid extra time in traffic.
4. Check the weather forecasts
Make sure you check the weather forecasts so you can pack appropriate clothing. Additionally, this will also allow you to see if there are any weather advisories out.
5. Book a room online
If you're going for an overnight trip, look into booking a room online. Many locations sell out of hotels quickly, and it's no fun to sleep in a car or be looking for a hotel room at midnight.
By booking a hotel online, you will ensure that you are able to sleep overnight in a comfortable location and can be sure of your reservation. This will also allow you to pick what amenities you want, such as having a hotel with a pool.
6. Make a quick budget
Ensure you have enough money for gas, lodging costs, and enough to visit some fun locations while you're traveling on your trip. Having money to spend will allow you to do more while you are traveling. If you want to visit a specific destination, make sure to look up online how much the destination will cost to enter, and if there is anything that you need to bring while you visit.
Unplanned trips are fun, and can lead to a lot of unplanned, exciting adventures. However, if some basic precautions are not planned for beforehand, the trip can be more stressful than it needs to be.
5 Popular Treks in Egypt
Image credit: By Mohammed Moussa - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=28338950 The most popular ways to see the wonders of Egypt are via 4x4 vehicles or on the back of a camel. But here on Trek Seek, we know that there's no better way than going wherever your feet take you, when navigating this African country's magnificent terrain. If you're up for a hike, here are some of the best Egyptian trails you can try. The Blue Lagoon Hike With the Sinai Mountains to your left and the vivid colors of the Red Sea to your right, this hike takes you through one of the most beautiful paths in the world. Start your short journey at the Blue Hole, whose underwater beauty has made it a world-famous diving spot. Once you get to the Blue Lagoon, you can take a dip in the relaxing waters, learn how to kitesurf, or just have some Bedouin tea as the sun sets in one of the lagoon's camps. The Colored Canyon At 800 meters long, the Sinai Peninsula's Colored Canyon gets its name from the various hues of red, brown, green, blue, purple, orange, and yellow that swirl and run through its walls. The Culture Trip provides a scientific explanation for these otherworldly works of art: they are a result of the area's geological history. The canyon's sandstone, granite, and limestone walls were once part of the Red Sea, whose receding tides led to the enamoring swirls that the canyon is famous for today. Try not to get too hypnotized by the colors, and watch your step! Image credit: By Christian Müller, Sickte, Deutschland - privates Foto, Copyrighted free use, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=23275924 The Valley of the Whales This UNESCO World Heritage Site gets its name from its fossils, which shed light on the evolutionary history of the whale. Also known as Wadi El-Hitan and located in the Fayoum Oasis, the Valley of the Whales is also known as one of the easiest hikes in Egypt. Nearby activities include sand boarding on the dunes, kayaking at the nearby waters, horse riding, or simply stargazing on a clear night. Image credit: By Mohammed ali Moussa - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=32505618 Mount Catherine at the Sinai Trail This trail forms just a part of what National Geographic calls the number one new trail in the world: the 137-mile long Sinai Trail. If you're not up for that long distance hike, you can just take the Mount Catherine trail, which starts at Saint Catherine. From there, it's a 15-mile high-altitude hike towards the final point at Saint Catherine's Monastery. Along the way, you'll get to see sights like the Abbas Basha castle ruins, gorgeous mountain passes, and even natural pools of blue water amid the surrounding rocks. Image credit: By Mohammed Moussa - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=35232442 Wadi Delga Protectorate This hiking spot features wildlife such as deer, red foxes, and mountain rabbits as you cross a valley bordered by limestone rocks that were formed over the years by rainwater. Despite its secluded feel, the Wadi Delga Protectorate is actually conveniently located near other famous tourist spots. It's a mere 5 minutes away from the hustle and bustle of Maadi, and just 40 minutes from the Giza Pyramid complex, which is without a doubt Egypt's most famous landmark. The pyramids are so iconic that beyond their usual depiction in movies and at entertainment hubs like the Vegas Strip, they've begun showing up in various unconventional mainstream forms of modern media, as well as digital games. Pyramid Quest for Immortality hosted on Foxy Bingo shows the landmark in all its glory, symbolizing the significance of the Ancient Egyptian era even today. This just goes to show how monumental these ancient structures have become, both literally and figuratively. What's more, you can check them out yourself once you're done hiking Wadi Delga.
5 Biggest Mistakes You Can Make While Traveling
Although traveling is something which is enjoyable and exciting, it doesn't come without its risks. Often travelers can find themselves on a trip making mistakes that aren't only costly, but dangerous. When it comes to the most important things to look out for when traveling, here are the mistakes you want to avoid above all. Crashing Your Rental Vehicle Depending on where you're traveling to, renting a vehicle is often the best way to go. It's convenient not to have to worry about pricy taxis, navigating the public transportation system, or wandering around by foot. However, it's important to remember that this rental comes with a big responsibility. Some people don't take the contract terms seriously and wind up getting hit or hitting someone else. Even with insurance, you'll still have to pay out of pocket. Your best to drive vigilantly and avoid collisions at all costs. Losing Your Passport Losing your passport abroad is something that will throw your travel plans for a loop. Not only will you have to stay where you are until you get a replacement, but you will also have to pay expedited costs, and potentially take measures to protect your identity if stolen. Not Respecting The Culture Although you may feel comfortable in your skin, not everywhere in the world has the same cultural values. It's important to be respectful of other cultures without insulting their beliefs. Respecting their culture can mean anything from adhering to their dress codes to using their language politely. Going Into Dangerous Areas When traveling, you should always make sure that you're familiar with your surroundings. Wandering into dangerous areas may be a deadly mistake depending on where you are. Always research your destination before you depart, and ask your hotel about any places you should avoid. At the end of the day, it's better to be safe than sorry. Getting into danger on your vacation isn't exactly anyone's idea of a good time. Not Eating The Local Cuisine Some people who haven't traveled much are creatures of habit. They arrive in exotically beautiful locations with bursting culture, yet find themselves eating the same food they eat at home. Making the mistake of not trying the local cuisine is a big one. You never know what kind of flavors and experiences are waiting for you. Even though some parts of the world are risky when it comes to hygiene, you shouldn't let this dissuade from trying out new foods. There are so many amazing foods that you can only experience in the street. Do a little research beforehand on which places are safe and recommended by other travelers.
3 Road Safety Tips When Traveling In Developing Countries
While taking a trip to a different country can be a great way to gain some perspective and develop an appreciation for the world and culture around you, it also opens you up for some potential dangers. For example, if you're going to get hurt or killed while traveling, the chances are pretty high that this incident will come as the result of a car accident or other traffic mishap. So to eliminate the high risks associated with this and keep you as well as those around you protected, here are three road safety tips you should follow when you're traveling in a developing country. Pick The Safest Option Depending on the country you're visiting, they may have a lot of different options for transportation. While you may be familiar with some, others might be completely foreign to you. And although you might think riding on a motorcycle through the streets of India would be something you'll always remember, it's going to be a much better idea to pick the safest option available to you. According to the CDC, the safest option for transportation means choosing when not to ride on something. So rather than choosing to get on a packed bus or a motorcycle, choose a marked taxi or other form of transportation that would be deemed a little safer. Avoid Night Driving Especially when traveling in developing countries, you're going to want to be extra careful when driving at night. If at all possible, it's going to be best to try to avoid this situation completely. According to Tanya Mohn, a contributor to NBC News, many drivers in developing countries don't consistently use their lights when driving at night. This can make this extra dangerous when you consider that things like speed limits or stop signs aren't reliably posted in many places. So rather than taking this risk, try to do all your traveling during the day when in developing countries. Do Your Research When choosing what transportation services to use, it's a good idea to do some research before you book a ticket or get on board. To do this, Elissa Leibowitz Poma, a contributor to Smarter Travel, recommends putting in the transportation company's name and phrases like "safety record" or "crash" into a search engine. If the results pull up information that's less than favorable for that company, seriously consider the risks before you choose to proceed rather than finding a new way to travel. While many people are perfectly safe when traveling in developing countries, it's always good to know what you can do to mitigate even more risks. To help you do this, consider using the tips mentioned above the next time you're visiting a developing country.
4 Tips For Traveling With Kids
Traveling with children can be a daunting experience. If you've never done it before, you may start to feel your head spinning as you try and think of all the things that you'll need. In order to properly plan it's important not to stress yourself out too much. However, it's also important to have a realistic attitude that it will not always be easy. Depending on the age of your children, you may find it more difficult, particularly with very young toddlers. However, plenty of people travel with children every day. It's all a matter of knowing the best tactics in order to ensure you have the smoothest experience possible. Here are some of the best tips to help you have a comfortable and stress-free vacation with kids. Rent a Car Relying on taxis or public transportation at your destination may be risky when there are kids involved. Since there can often be waiting times or connections. Kids aren't always up for tolerating having to be patient. However, with a car, you are able to get around at your own pace whenever you want. Additionally, if you're going to a place with extreme temperatures, a car is a comfortable and climate controlled environment as opposed to a hot bus or train. Just make sure to save those cocktails for back at the hotel, since you don't want to drive recklessly and hurt anyone. Bring Plenty Of Changes Of Clothing When packing for your vacation, it's logical to think that you will need one outfit per day. However, when it comes to kids, they can be famous for getting dirty quickly. Since you'll be traveling and may not have access to a washing machine it's best to plan for spills and pack as many extra outfits as you can fit. This will avoid them having to wear dirty clothes throughout the duration of their trip or you having to buy clothes which weren't a necessary expense. Stay Flexible Children can easily become tired or throw a fit when you least expect it. It's important to stay flexible during your travel. Expecting children to go with a rigidly scheduled program can be frustrating when things don't go your way, therefore, be prepared for not being able to do everything that you like to do on your trip. If one of them needs a nap or simply needs to play in the pool rather than going to see the latest museum, try to take it in stride. Bring Plenty Of Activities Having activities on hand and ready to go for your kids is ideal when you're traveling. From the airplane ride to hanging out in the hotel at night, kids need something to occupy them. You may want to bring things such as coloring books, their favorite toys, or a tablet so that they can view movies or play games. This won't just make them happier, but as a parent, it will make you feel much better knowing that they are entertained and having a good time.
Tips For Saving Money On Your Trip To The Caribbean
You could easily blow out your budget by holidaying in the Caribbean the wrong way. It's important to spoil yourself, just without wasting money on unnecessary expenses. Don't be a rookie traveler: make sure you're prepared and knowledgeable so that you can keep costs down.
Choose The Right Island
It's important to consider your budget before you even decide which island to visit. The Caribbean is made up of everything from luxury resorts to huts on almost deserted islands. If you want to save money, then you may want to steer clear of St Barts and Anguilla: the two most expensive islands. Cheaper options include Montego Bay and most Dominican Republic islands. While it can take longer to get to outlying islands (extra flights or boat trips ), it may be worth it. Fewer amenities will provide a more native experience that can help you save some cash.
Pick The Right Day And Month To Fly
Christmas/New Years and December to February is the peak Caribbean Session. If you travel during these times, then you should expect some higher prices. March and April are the shoulder season where you can get cheaper tickets. The rest of the year is the offseason and will be cheaper again. Generally, it's more expensive to fly on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Obviously, this is because of the number of people going on weekend escapes. Consider booking mid-week flights to save cash.
Look For Cashback Deals
Many companies get commissions by referring travelers to hotels and tour operators in the Caribbean. They then share some of this money with customers. This is known as cashback. Before you book a tour or accommodation, you should see if there are any cashback details available. Good sites to check out include www.swagbucks.com and www.topcashback.com.
Scour The Net For Hotel Deals
After you flights, a massive chunk of your budget will go towards accommodation. That's why you should hunt around to find the best details. Make sure you compare different platforms such as Booking.com, Agoda, and Expedia. You can also find deals on Caribbean travel websites. Just because a room is a particular price on one website doesn't mean it will be the same on another. Don't forget about Airbnb. If you're seeking more space, then you may find a good deal. Remember, good Airbnbs often book out months ahead of time.
Always Bring The Essentials
You don't want to turn up without the essentials, such as sunscreen. Chances are you will end up overpaying for this and similar items. Most tourist-focused shops charge hefty prices. When you pack, try and include all the necessary items to be as self-sufficient as possible. This should include toiletries and medications. Use price comparison sites like Only Reviews to get the best prices for essentials that you might need prior to your visit and you'll save a great deal! Final Thoughts Your trip will surely be a success. Just make sure you don't return home with a bank account that's more depleted than necessary. These tips will help you avoid losing out on money for no reason.
How To Deal With Motion Sickness While Traveling
Traveling is one of the most popular hobbies around the world. It is also one of the most practiced activities since people have to move from place to place for business or pleasure. In as much as it is mostly fun, motion sickness can ruin absolutely everything. One moment you are marveling at different sights, and the next you feel like spilling your guts out because you kept your eyes off the road for too long. If you have experienced motion sickness before, you know it is important to ensure it doesn't happen again. Although it is not exactly a disease that needs to be cured, there are certain remedies you can use to ensure that your fun traveling moments are not rudely interrupted. Avoid Big Meals On your travel days, avoid waking up to big meals or caffeine. Large, greasy meals are bound to leave you feeling nauseous and throwing up is inevitable. Caffeine causes dehydration which is a major trigger for motion sickness. Regardless, you still have to eat something since traveling on an empty stomach can also trigger motion sickness. It's all about striking up a balance and eating the right kinds of food. Stick to foods that you know work for you and avoid foods that usually make you feel unusually full or constipated even under normal circumstances. Try as much as possible to avoid other drinks such as alcohol. Instead, drink lots of water. Ginger Another way to prevent motion sickness beforehand is by consuming ginger. Ginger is a good remedy for any kind of stomach upset and indigestion problems. Since it is merely an ingredient, ginger can be consumed in many different ways. One effective way is to turn it into syrup that you can add to any of your preferred healthy beverage. If you have no idea how to do it, preparednessmama.com has a good recipe for you to turn your ginger into a sweat, healthy syrup. Stay Distracted When you are already in a moving vehicle and you start feeling nauseous, try and distract yourself. Switch from what you are doing to something else. If you are reading a book, put it aside and listen to some music. Turn the volume up loud and sing your heart out until the thought of vomiting is completely forgotten from your mind. Try switching your activities from time to time every time you feel like the feeling is coming back. The Hard Way If you want to truly beat motion sickness as a frequent traveler, you will have to ride through it. The human body has a natural way of adapting to different environmental changes, and soon enough, you will be able to sit comfortably through a 5-hour road trip without feeling a thing. It may be a little harder for an occasional traveler since the body reverts back to normal during long non-traveling spells. Basically, you use your body's science to put a permanent end to circumstantial reaction. You can begin by staying as comfortable as possible during the travel and using the middle seats where there is very little disturbance.
Preparing Your Home For Long-Term Absence
Traveling the world can take you far away from your home base. Though traveling feeds a part of the soul nothing else can suffice, there is plenty to be said about the comfort of coming home. Seasoned travelers are aware of what it takes to keep your home in order whilst away, but the novice explorer may need a little insight. Check out a few of the most helpful tips towards preparing your home for a long-term absence, and start planning your next adventure. Packing and preparation If your journey is a far extended trip (meaning you'll be gone for a year or more), you may want to pack up a few things for safe keeping. Clothing sitting in closets for long periods of time can become infested with moths and be ruined if they are not properly stored. Dust mites and other nuisance can cause a ruckus whilst you're away, and you want to make sure your "home" still feels like "home" when you get back. Cover your furniture with dust blockers, and make sure everything is sealed up tight. Invest in home security Let a security company keep a watchful eye on your property while you are away on your journey. Home security has become exceptionally advanced in the past ten years, and it is now more affordable than ever. Purchase peace of mind, and invest in home security. Your nerves will thank you while you are away, and your home will stay as you left it. Get a house sitter to stay Get someone to stay in your house while you are away. A human occupant is the best security system you can find, as long as that person is a trustworthy steward. You've seen the movies where the guy trusts the guy that isn't trustworthy to watch his house. It's never good. Close family or a lifelong friend may be your best bet for choosing someone to watch your home. It wouldn't hurt to also notify one or two neighbors of the arrangement to add accountability. Take a trip to the post office If you are leaving your home for any length of time, it is a good idea to stop your mail from coming. A stuffed mailbox is a sure sign the homeowners are away, and a trained thief will not miss the cue. It only takes a few minutes at the post office to put a hold on your mail. You can also skip the trip, and fill out the necessary paperwork online. Avoid posting your travel plans Try not to blast the fact that your home is sitting empty over the social media airwaves. Most people have several hundred "friends" on Facebook or Twitter, and it isn't uncommon to have connections with people you don't even know.
Three Things You Must See In Nazca Province
Thanks to quicker and more affordable flights, the world really is becoming a smaller place. That makes it easier than ever to visit exotic and exciting new locations, and few countries have more to offer the tourist than Peru. Machu Picchu is the most famous Peruvian attraction and a visit to the Incan citadel can be found on most people's bucket list, but there is so much more to this diverse country caught between the Pacific Ocean and the Andes mountains. One area that particularly deserves to be seen is the province of Nazca, home to some of the most incredible sights in South America, if not the world.
A Town Risen From The Ashes
Nazca is the name of a town in southwestern Peru and the arid region that surrounds it. The town was devastated by the Peruvian earthquake of 1996, leaving its inhabitants homeless. It has since been completely rebuilt, and thankfully the new Nazca is faithful to the style of the original. It's hard to believe that the streets and buildings are, in most places, only a decade or two old because it has a distinctly nineteenth century feel to it. Nazcans are proud of their rebuilt town and offer visitors a very warm welcome, but what draws most people to Nazca is not the town itself, but the incredibly Nazca desert with its mysterious line drawings.
Mesmerizing And Mysterious Lines
The Nazca valleys are among the most arid regions on Earth, but they make an ideal location for intrepid trekkers. There's one particular reason to visit this desert landscape, as revealed by travel experts Tourist 2 Traveler – the Nazca lines. The Nazca lines are some of the most mysterious objects on the planet, but once seen they are never forgotten. Over 170 miles of desert floor is a series of perfectly straight lines along with pictures of flowers, animals, including whales, spiders, and primates, and even mythical and rather sinister looking creatures. What is most astonishing about the Nazca lines is their huge scale, so that they can be seen at their best from a helicopter. The lines are at least a millennium and a half old, but just who created them, or how they achieved it with such geometric precision, remains a mystery. Some say that extraterrestrial life was behind their creation, but you can make up your own mind when you walk among them.
The Cemetery To End All Cemeteries
Old cemeteries are fascinating places that tell you a lot about the generations who have gone before us, but few have the emotional impact of the Chauchilla Cemetery in Nazca. Don't expect the monuments and mausoleums you'd see in your local graveyard, for Chauchilla is a necropolis where skulls and mummified bodies are on open show. The site is protected by Peruvian law and contains bodies that were interred between 200AD and 900AD, as well as many examples of ancient Peruvian pottery and burial goods. Two-hour tours are available, and really are a must on any tour of Peru. Nazca is a region of stark contrasts, from its quaint town to its incredible desert drawings and eery mummified remains. It also provides some of the best hiking and trekking opportunities in Peru and is a sandboarding center, so if you're thinking of visiting Machu Picchu and moving on, you should think again and head to this vibrant valley.
3 Dangers To Watch Out For While Traveling
While traveling can be a great experience where you see things you otherwise never would have had the chance to see or experience, it can also be fraught with dangers if you don't know how to properly take care of yourself. The hard part about this is that different areas are going to have different dangers for the travelers visiting there. However, there are a few dangers that can apply to almost anywhere you're going to journey to. So to help you have safer travels, here are three dangers to watch out for while you're traveling. Getting Too Drunk For many travelers, going on a trip is a great way to indulge a bit more than you normally would allow yourself. And while this can be fine when done safely, there are far too many people who don't know how to keep themselves safe while also having a good time. According to Doug Murray, a contributor to Slice, getting too drunk while traveling can be dangerous for multiple reasons. Not only can it cloud your judgement or cause you to forget things or participate in risky behaviors, you could also endanger yourself or others if you choose to drink and drive. So to be on the safe side, try to keep from getting too drunk while you're traveling. Driving On The Roads Regardless of what country you're traveling to, there's always a chance that you could get into some kind of motor vehicle accident. But in areas where the rules of the roads are seen more as suggestions or where there is very heavy traffic congestion, being on the road can be even more dangerous. For this reason, Kylie Dingman, a contributor to Pandotrip.com, recommends either doing quite a bit of research about the roads and road systems in the area you plan to travel before you get behind the wheel. Also, you could hire a car or guide to take you around to your destinations, giving the control to someone who's used to driving in these conditions. Being Oblivious To Your Surroundings One of the most dangerous things you can do when traveling is to be oblivious to what's going on around you. When you're not paying attention, people are much more likely to see you as an easy target and take advantage of your position. Knowing this, Natalie Jesionka, a contributor to The Muse, advises that learn about any big threats by researching restrictions regarding travel in that area. Also, try to get your bearing wherever you are so you can direct someone to your if you're in need of help. If you plan to travel soon, consider using the tips mentioned above to help you know how to keep yourself safe no matter where your journey takes you.
Going Camping? Here are 4 Things You Need to Know
We hear it a lot; many would argue that millennials spend too much time in front of a laptop or a smartphone and not enough time outdoors. In reality, more millennials are exploring nature, discovering new activities to try, and having great adventures; how else do we get all those cool landscape photos for Instagram, right? If you haven't tried camping before, now is the best time to make the leap. There are campgrounds with great amenities, so going on your first camping trip will not be as daunting as you think. Preparing for that first trip is just as easy. Here are the four things you need to know before your first camping trip.
You Can Get a Comfortable Tent
Depending on the camping ground you plan to visit, you can either arrive at a tent that is waiting for you, rent a tent on the spot and erect it yourself, or bring your own tent from home. The latter lets you customize the entire camping experience. You can, for example, pick up a Coleman Sun Dome tent, one of the best tents recommended by My Family Tent. It is relatively affordable and offers great protection against the elements. You can equip the tent with other amenities to boost your comfort level throughout the trip.
Booking Is Necessary
Since you're going on your first camping trip, head for a camping ground. Campgrounds offer a wide range of amenities to help you stay comfortable while having an adventure. You get to sample the best of both worlds, which is what you want to do on your first trip. Don't forget to make a reservation before planning the rest of the trip. Yes, campgrounds need to be reserved; some even go as far as letting you select a particular spot for your tent.
Getting to the destination camping ground and setting up your tent is first on the to-do list. You still have the rest of the trip to enjoy. Fortunately, there is no shortage of things to do and new adventures to go on. While comparing camping grounds to choose, don't forget to find out more about the outdoor activities available at each site. You can go on a hike, try some extreme activities, or have a relaxing couple of days away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Bring Entertainment
Just because you're on a camping trip, doesn't mean you can't have your smartphone, your laptop, and your Kindle with you. You can benefit from having a lot of entertainment in hand, especially at night. If you don't want work or friends to bother you, switch to airplane mode and don't connect to the Wi-Fi access point at the camping ground. Be sure to download some movies and to fill your Kindle with books you've been trying to read; you will have plenty of time to read during the trip. From these tips, it is easy to see how a camping trip can be a lot of fun. So, what are you waiting for? Find a camping ground that you like, get your camping gear ready, and have a fantastic time on your first adventure.
3 Tips for Staying Safe While Traveling Abroad
When you're a tourist in a new and unfamiliar area, those who may be looking to exploit or take advantage of others may see you as an easy target. So to ensure that you have a great time while traveling abroad and don't run into an unnecessary trouble, it's important for you to know how to prepare yourself before your trip and handle yourself while you're on your journeys. To help you with this, here are three tips for staying safe while traveling abroad. Familiarize Yourself Before you get to your destination, the first and best thing you should do for your preparation is to familiarize yourself with the area as much as you can. According to Belinda Luscombe, a contributor to Time.com, this means that you should do your research about the safety of the area. Try to find out if there are areas you should avoid or times of the year where things seem to be less safe. Also, try to get access to any local news, if it's available, so you can have the most up-to-date and accurate information possible. Take Extra Precautions At Night If you're going to a place that has a lot of tourist or international travelers, it's likely that you're going to be relatively safe while you're there. However, in many places, it's often much safer during the day than at night. For this reason, Stephanie Be, a contributor to the Huffington Post, recommends avoiding non-tourist areas once the sun goes down. If you ever get into an unsafe or uncomfortable situation, like you think your driver is drunk or you just get a bad feeling about an area, change your transportation or move into an area that's more heavily trafficked by other people. There is safety in numbers, so try to stick with other people if you're feeling uneasy. Try To Be Inconspicuous To keep yourself as safe as you can, it's best to try to not draw any unwanted attention to yourself. Locals who are looking to take advantage of tourists can easily tell which ones have money and which ones don't, so try to hide your wealth as best you can. According to TravelInsuranceReview.net, this means not pulling out your wallet in public, keeping cameras small and hidden, removing expensive watches or jewelry, or wearing clothing that obviously costs a lot of money. The more you're able to blend in with your surroundings and the local people you're interacting with, the less of a target you'll be for malicious intent. If you have plans to travel internationally and are worried about your safety, consider using the tips mentioned above to help you have a safe and enjoyable time during your adventures.
4 Tips For a Stress-Free Vacation
Taking a vacation is something that you look forward to all year. It is something that you make a point of putting money aside for so that you can step back and take a breather from the hustle and bustle of life. Unfortunately, in many cases, however, many of us come back from our vacation needing a vacation from our vacation. Say that five times fast. Usually, this is a result of not taking the proper steps to ensure that your vacation goes smoothly. Taking the right steps to ensure that your vacation recharges you instead of drains you is essential. Otherwise, you may just throw all that hard earned money out the window that you spent on your vacation. When it comes to a stress-free vacation, here are the best tips to make it so. Make All Your Reservations Before You Go Many people want their vacations to have a relaxed and open-ended feel. They want to stay flexible and spontaneous so they leave a few loose ends that haven't been covered yet, like reserving a place to stay, just in case they want to change their mind on the fly. However, when you do this you run the risk of finding yourself without anywhere to put your stuff or sleep in a location where you potentially don't have any contacts to bail you out. This has the potential for a major disaster if you allow yourself not to have a backup plan. Therefore, you should always make your transportation and hotel reservations well ahead of your arrival. Take Care Of Your To-Do's At Home First When you go on a trip, you may be on vacation, but the rest of the world is still spinning. You should ensure that you take care of everything before you go such as arranging someone to get your mail and water your plants. Things like alerting your bank if you are planning on being out of the country is essential since this could potentially affect your transactions. If you are out of the country and haven't told your bank first, your bank may think that someone is making illegal charges on your account and place a freeze on it. Travel With People You Mesh With Traveling with people that you respect and get along with is crucial if you want a stress free trip. When you go on a trip with people who stress you out or you don't see eye to eye with, you're setting yourself up for potential arguments. Therefore, before you make travel arrangements with anyone, take a good look at how well you go together as two different personalities. This honest examination will help avoid issues in the midst of your trip.
Boutique Serviced Apartments Make You Feel Part of a City
Instead of feeling like just another tourist, most people like to feel as if they're part of the city when they take a trip. It's nicer to feel immersed in the local culture, and it's easy enough to make yourself feel that way when you book a boutique serviced apartment instead of a hotel. Here are just a few reasons why. You're Right in the Centre One of the best things about staying in a boutique serviced apartment is being right near the centre of town. If you stay in a hotel, you'll probably be more on the outskirts since building such a large property in the middle of a city is expensive, but a serviced apartment should have been converted from a property near the centre. Nothing makes you feel more part of the thriving metropolis than stepping out of your accommodation and finding everything on your doorstep. You're Staying Somewhere Unique Character properties are chosen for boutique apartments. From the outside, they'll often look like they were lifted right from a period drama. Once you're inside, don't expect any of the generic furniture and decorations that define modern hotel rooms. Boutique serviced apartments are made to feel special, so each one is decorated uniquely and to a high standard. Your apartment will feel part of the city, not just part of another hotel chain. You Get to Prepare the Local Food Yourself You don't receive your own kitchen when you book a hotel, but you'll have a fully-fitted kitchen when you choose a boutique serviced apartment. As such, you'll be able to grab local delicacies and make dishes with them just like you were a local yourself. For example, plenty of people who book a Bristol serviced apartment like to whip up some West Country fare. You Feel at Home Ultimately, it's impossible to feel part of a city if you don't feel at home in your accommodation. Everything in a serviced apartment, from the layout of the rooms to the quality of their furnishings, is designed to provide that sensation. When you put your feet up at the end of the day, you'll feel like you belong.
The Benefits of Information Technology for Navigation While Traveling
Do you fancy yourself something of an explorer? If you do, then you understand the importance of knowing where you're going. In other words, you know that navigation is key to getting from one place to another and in the modern age, information technology helps out a tremendous amount in the navigation department. There are GPS trackers if you're journeying on foot. There are control panels for boats and ships that assist in navigation. Driving has become exponentially easier because turn by turn navigation is now available. And in urban areas, various transmitters help to ensure that all parts and pieces of mass transit are running on time. GPS for Journeys on Foot If you're an adventurer who likes taking hikes or going on long journeys with your feet as the main source of power, then you recognize how helpful GPS tracking can be, whether it's on your cell phone or some other piece of equipment. It takes a lot of the guesswork out of certain pathways, and it makes trekking much safer as opposed to in the past. One wrong turn not too long ago, and you were in trouble. Now, with information technology evolving to help with GPS, even in remote areas, you have a better chance of completing your journey safely. Marine Control Panels Out on the water, there aren't always landmarks that you can follow. That's why having high-quality control panels on marine equipment has been such a benefit to that industry. You can romanticize all you want about following the sun and the stars, but having a solid control panel in front of you that helps with all of your navigation efforts is going to be something that moves the enjoyment of your activity up a significant notch. Navigation Systems for Driving For people who don't have a great sense of direction, driving used to be an enormous pain. It was frustrating, inefficient, and often unsafe. Now, you can have turn by turn navigation systems in your car, and it's not even expensive. It can either be installed directly into the car itself, or you can use your phone to navigate for you. Either way, it's a tremendous benefit for anyone who does a lot of driving, especially in unfamiliar areas. Timing Out Mass Transportation And finally, all kinds of information technology is used to help keep mass transportation on time. This can be trains, buses, subways, or any other number of methods of transportation. The latest technology is used to have everything talk to a central database, which can then figure out how to adjust timing as necessary. The amount of data collection that is available because of navigational aids now means that mass transportation is better than ever when all of the right systems are in place.
Serviced Apartment vs. Apartment Hotel: What's the Difference?
People are often confused by the difference between a serviced apartment and an apartment hotel. It's easy to see why since they seem so similar, but the difference is relatively simple to understand. Essentially, a serviced apartment will usually be converted from an older property, and each property will generally only contain one or two serviced apartments. In contrast, an apartment hotel will be around the same size as a standard hotel, but it will contain apartments instead of standard rooms. Now you understand the difference between serviced apartment and apartment hotel, you should also learn why serviced apartments often prove superior. Perfect Location As stated above, an apartment hotel will be quite large. They are normally built from scratch to ensure that each apartment is the same size and shape. As such, they tend to be constructed outside of city centres; it's often either extremely expensive or impossible to find the necessary square footage in the middle of things. A serviced apartment will usually be positioned in the centre, so you'll be closer to all the main attractions and find getting around much easier. More Interesting Buildings Serviced apartments are extremely practical, with enough space to feel homey and all the modern comforts and conveniences you could desire. However, they also speak to people who want something a little different. The building itself will often be converted from an older property, and the interior will be totally unique, incorporating hand-picked furniture and traditional features. The same can't be said of an apartment hotel. Each apartment will be designed the same, so you'll never feel particularly inspired by your surroundings. Stronger Service Finally, apartment hotels tend to fall short when it comes to customer service, at least compared to serviced apartments. The apartment hotel is designed to take as many people as possible, so the attention you receive is never going to feel particularly personal. Serviced apartment bookings will usually connect you to a dedicated service manager – they'll be available throughout your stay to help with whatever you need.
Why is Booking a Serviced Apartment Smarter than House Sitting?
At first, house sitting can seem immensely tempting. After all, you get to live in someone else's house without ever paying a penny, and you'll often get to pick a home located in a stunning city or beautiful rural location. However, there are some significant downsides to house sitting that need to be taken into consideration. Here are just a few reasons why you should look for a serviced apartment instead. Zero Responsibility You might think that house sitting is free, and it is – at least in terms of money. However, this is still a transactional relationship - you might not be paying any cash, but you'll still be working. Essentially, you'll be responsible for the property. That usually means keeping things clean, checking on appliances, and looking after pets. You'll have responsibility for all of that. You'll also have to cope if things go wrong – for example, it's you that needs to act if the power goes out or the toilet stops flushing. A serviced apartment costs money, but it doesn't involve any work. All the time is your own. Odd Locations A serviced apartment is almost always going to be in the centre of a city. When you look for a house-sitting opportunity, there's no telling what will turn up. It's more than likely you'll end up in the suburbs, or else out in the middle of the countryside. If you don't have a car, this can make getting around very tough – you might never even get into the city to do any sightseeing. Lack of Flexibility As stated above, you're not your own boss when you choose to house-sit. While it might seem freeing to be in someone else's house while they are away you're going to need to stick to their travel dates yourself, potentially spending a lot longer in one location than you originally wished. A serviced apartment is booked for as long as you want it.
Top Four Winter Drives in America
Most people feel like summer is the best of the year to get out on the road on go for a cross-country trip – which is why, according to Bridgestone, almost 90% of Americans take summer road trips. For some people, winter driving is considered a utilitarian necessity, but taking a road trip may have a few benefits you never thought about. In addition to cheap gas prices, nation's top national parks are usually crowd-free during the winter, American iconic routes have far less traffic and lodging rates are also significantly lower. And even if that didn't peak your interest, let's take a look at some of the most incredible drives across the United States you need to experience in your lifetime…
1. Alaska: Anchorage to Talkeetna
Distance: Around 225 miles Time: Between three and five days This trail might be a bit challenged for less-experienced drivers and it will make you feel like an Ice Road Trucker, but if you're up for the challenge, you'll see just how rewarding the trail is. Just an hour north of Anchorage, you stop in the Mat-Su Valley and visit the Nordic ski, designed by Alaska's Hall of Fame biathlete, Bill Spencer. After continuing on the George Parks Highway, you should definitely visit Talkeetna, and ditch the boring asphalt for some snowy peaks. And if you don't want to spend a night in your car, stay in Talkeetna Roadhouse, and try their famous gooey cinnamon rolls.
2. New York City and Pennsylvania: Manhattan to Bradford
Distance: Around 350 miles Time: Seven days After visiting SoHo, the Fifth Avenue and maybe visiting the famous Christmas tree near the Rockefeller Center you should exit onto I-80 and drive 350 miles through Norman Rockwell countryside. At the end of your trip, you should stop in Ellicottville and if you can afford it, visit the biggest private ski resort in the United States. After HoliMont, you should go south and see the beautiful Allegany State Park and go to the Relais and Chateau Lodge that has a steep sledding hill, its own ice-skating pond and a cross country trail network. And if you're worried about being cold – don't worry – the places more than 40 fireplaces.
3. New Mexico and Colorado: Santa Fe to Wolf Creek
Distance: Around 150 miles Time: Between three and four days Going through Santa Fe will be a challenge – with all margaritas and festive farolitos, you probably won't feel like leaving. But the Wolf Creek Ski Area that has more than 400 inches of snow per year will definitely be worth it. Along the US 84, you can see everything the flat-topped peaks of Perianal to the jagged white San Juans. We just have to warn you, the weather conditions may be a little bit rough in Colorado during the winter, so you have to make sure that your car is prepared. That means winter tires and blades are a must and it would be smart to use Castrol engine oil to protect your engine from the conditions.
4. Nevada & Utah: Las Vegas to Zion
Distance: Around 245 miles Time: Between seven and ten days You can start your trip by watching the fountains of Bellagio dance to the tune of Santa Baby and catching La Reve in Vegas before setting off on I-15 through the desert to the cliff of Zion National Park. If you time your trip with the New Year, you can go on a six-day-long hiking quest with REI. This snowshoeing journey includes hiking across an ice-covered plateau, a series of more than 20 steep switchbacks to Scout Lookout in Zion and even a New Year hike. And if you have any energy left afterwards, you can go to the private ranch nearby and finish the New Year's Eve with a party.
Although the scenery is amazing, you still can't forget that driving conditions can be pretty dangerous during the winter. Therefore, you need to pack an emergency kit with a few blankets, flashlights, winter boots and snacks. Get your vehicle checked and make sure that everything is in order before you go. Besides the essentials, your winter emergency kit should include an ice scraper, road flares, a tow rope, matches and a weather radio. Plus, it would be a good idea to let someone know about your schedule, the roads you plan on traveling and the locations you'll visit in case you get lost and someone needs to find you. But winter is still a great time to travel, because you have clear roads, a ton of fresh air and snow-covered mountain tops at your disposal. So all you need to do is heat up your car, get a few friends and hit the road…
Palm Springs Pampering: The Perfect Location for Chilling Out
It doesn't take you long to realize what a stunning location Palm Springs is when you first arrive in the area and the place seems to exude a relaxed atmosphere where rushing around is not the thing to do. That makes it an almost perfect venue for relaxing and enjoying some time to recharge your batteries, and there are some great things to do when you want a break from lounging by the pool. Here are some ideas for filling your time in Palm Springs, including an oasis in the desert, where to head for some of nature's finest views, plus a chance to enjoy a cultural journey while in the area. The hidden delights of Coachella Valley The Coachella Valley Preserve offers some stimulating hiking opportunities where you can witness some natural wonders and wildlife. A stroll through some of the 20,000 acres of this nature reserve will inspire you and even when the temperature is rising in this desert location you are going to feel pretty chilled. The reserve is a little over 15 miles outside of Palm Springs and the preserve is free to enjoy, although they always appreciate a donation toward their preservation work. If you stay at somewhere like the JW Marriott Desert Springs you will be ideally placed to explore the area and schedule in a trip to Coachella Valley. Guaranteed a glorious view Palm Springs and the Coachella Valley area have a justifiable reputation as a haven for nature lovers and a great way of surveying that scenery is by taking the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. You can use the tramway to transport you to some excellent hiking trails if you feel that you want to exercise your lungs with a good walk while you are in the area. If you do want to do some hiking, the Indian Canyons offer at least a 100 miles of trails to follow and the panoramic vistas are very inspiring, including a must-see waterfall. Spend as much time as you want The area is just brimming with natural hot spots to enjoy and the Joshua Tree National Park is another one that you should try and visit. The park is actually open 24-hours a day which means you can take your time enjoying the spectacular views of the Coachella Valley and watching the sun go down in this area is something that you will remember from your time here. Soak up some culture When you want to do something inside there is always the Palm Springs Art Museum to explore and enjoy. The museum is home to a stunning collection of works from iconic artists like Andy Warhol, and spending a few hours soaking up the culture and appreciating art in its many different forms is a relaxing way to spend a few hours. These are just a few of the ways you can ensure that your relaxed vibe continues beyond all the pampering you manage to get at your hotel and spa, especially when you connect with the easygoing nature of Palm Springs in general.
Booking A Cottage Rental in Wales
If you plan on visiting Wales then you will have more than enough options to choose from as far as accommodation is concerned. Different accommodations have different properties to suit you. However, visitors have memorable times in cottages than any other form of accommodation. So here is a look at how visitors can book cottages in Wales.
Since you will have more than enough cottages to choose from, it is important that you first make up your mind. You need to decide what you want from it. It could be for friends gathering, a family get-together, explorations or simply want to get away into the wilderness. But you can rest assured that all Wales cottages have something unique you and your company will love.
Once you have made up your mind, you should now start the search. There are websites that provide cottage rental inventory in Wales. There are also rental management agencies that host websites with the properties they manage. You can compare the amenities and the price before you come to a conclusion.
Contact cottage owner
The best way to contact a cottage owner in Wales is to phone him/her. Many cottage owners are located in the remote areas of Wales and internet is still a luxury. So, some will not check their emails on a regular basis. Once you get the owner through the phone, make sure you ask and answer as many questions as possible.
Reserve cottage
Once you are sure you have the best deal from the available options, it is now time to reserve the cottage and get ready for your Wales holiday. But as you make your reservations, it is important to know that there are no free breakfasts in cottage rental businesses. When reserving holiday cottage in Wales you will need to give your credit card or send a check to the owner to reserve a spot for you. If the thought of trawling through hundreds of thousands of holiday cottages in Wales fills you with dread, there is a solution. iKnow UK has got the best of the best, all collected in one place ready for you to browse at your leisure. They've even made a handy guide that gives you a list of all the best things to see and do and visit while you're in Wales. No matter where you end up going, they've got you covered. Also, make sure to check out Go North Wales. It's a great site that covers EVERYTHING in North Wales. From attractions to food and drink and there are even fantastic offers up for grabs too. Wherever you end up going, Wales is full of beauty and wonder and you're guaranteed a good time. So if you're looking for the best place to go in the UK, definitely take Wales into account and don't miss out on a gem of the British Isles. Read more about where to go and what to see in my other blog posts from around the world!
Tips For Traveling While Recovering
One of the most popular things to do at almost anytime of the year is to travel. From over nighters to month long vacays, we spend almost as much time trying to get away from things as we do making the money to afford it. When you are in recovery, though, there are some extra things to keep in mind. What is normally a good time to most can signal failure on the road to recovery. Below are a few tips for making sure that you have a great time on vacation while staying true to the promise to stay sober. If Alcohol Plays, Stay Away As a recovering addict of any kind can tell you, alcohol can be a gateway to a world of hurt. Just one drink can put cracks in the foundation of a recovering addict. This can make staying sober extremely difficult and set up a typically dangerous situation for the addict and those involved. These days, alcohol is in no small supply. You can just about walk into any store or restaurant and be bombarded by the likeness of it. Not to mention, the commercials and billboards that scream its praises. While traveling abroad, make sure that you steer clear of outlets and venues that serve alcohol. Additionally, when alcohol is present, there is usually an environment that encourages its use as well as the use of illegal drugs. Stick to restaurants and venues that do not make alcohol part of their local flavor. Pick Sober Travel Buddies As with any trip, it's always better with a buddy and friends are essential to a successful recovery. On vacation, we play pranks, cut up, waste time, and make countless memories with them. It makes sense that they would be memories that you can actually remember and that, hopefully, don't involve the authorities. So, find some travel partners who don't need alcohol for a good time. Family friends, your best friend, and friends from church are all good options. Family friends have usually been a part of your life for quite a while and will tend to respect the struggle and what is needed to overcome it. Your best friend was probably in on most of your parties and has seen you through your downfall and struggle and is more likely to stick with you through the recovery process. If you attend a local church, you already know quite a few ways to party without the use of alcohol and recreational drugs. You also probably already have someone in mind. Invite them. Watch For Stressors There are several triggers for a recovering addict. Among them are things that cause immense stress. The average person is exposed to tons of stress every day, but are usually capable of dealing with the majority of it in a way that is not detrimental to them or those that surround them. A recovering addict, on the other hand, can have trouble coping with the anxiety and demands that a point of stress may place on them. Remember what you learned in rehab. Make sure to plan your trip down to the tiniest detail. This may sound trivial, but preparing for every outcome you can think of on a trip can provide some well needed solace. Your vacation can actually be utilized as a vacation. Call ahead and confirm your reservations. Have a backup plan for a rainy day and always make sure that you and your travel buddies are aware of how to help you cope should things go awry. Follow these tips and I guarantee you will return from your next vacation rested (mentally anyway) and with many great memories.
Spiritual Journeys and Some Possible Purposes
You'll hear a lot of cases where people traveled specifically for a spiritual intent. Now, it's most likely that these are all very individualized, but at least some of the general categories concerning the purpose for traveling in the first place will often fit into the same sets of perspective. People moving to find peace in geography may be looking to free the body, free the mind, see the icons that trigger their sense of serenity or to potentially even erase negativity in their lives that they are struggling to remove because of their home environment. Distances don't necessarily have to be far away, but they do have to have an intent and focus behind them. Free the Body Perhaps you are traveling on your spiritual journey to free your body. People who have dealt with addiction and are trying to follow the path of just breathing to get through the next moment, and then the next, will often find that traveling to a spiritual location can be a particularly useful method for obtaining this result. It's no surprise that rehab facilities often have greater success rates, simply because people have to travel somewhere new to get to them. Free the Mind Spiritual journeys can also free the mind. When you find a spiritual travel destination, you will often find that not only does your sense of mental and emotional freedom increase, but you will also surround yourself with people attempting to do the same thing for their reasons as well. That means that you will be any cloud of emotionality that allows you to feel connected to people, even complete strangers, in a way that help to resolve any of your internal dialogue and troubles. See the Icons Traveling to churches is not a bad idea for those looking for purpose and spirituality as well. Depending on which religion you follow, there are probably millions of options all around the world of places that hold the door and the key to many of the riddles that you are trying to puzzle out on your own time. Taking the time and energy to head to these locations might be just what you need. Erase the Negativity In the end, a lot of travel is simply a way to persuade yourself to remove the negativity from your life. Certain unfortunate emotions handcuff you to a house, or neighborhood, or city. By taking time out of your life to remove yourself from that situation, you are forcing yourself to reevaluate what makes you tick and why. Have you ever noticed that when people return from a vacation, they seem so much more confident? You can do this too, and adding a spiritual element to the journey will often give you a deeper experience.
Do's and Don'ts of Planning a York Holiday
Planning a York holiday vacation always involves a lot of if's and but's and planning a successful trip requires lots of skills. It requires thorough attention to details to the trip and is not always possible without spending loads of time doing research. Here, to make your job easier, we bring some important to do's and to don'ts which would be really handy for you on your trip to England and York. Whenever you plan to go out for a trip remember there are many cities in England other than London. As a place for holiday vacation, England is a perfect place being a land of tradition mixed with the world of modernity and a trip there should be on your agenda anytime. However, England including York can be an expensive place to visit, and you should thus categorize your visit on its type so that you could derive the maximum satisfaction from your vacation in England. England has plenty to view for all types of travellers in all their holiday trips to England, be it as a backpacker, budget trip, or a luxury trip. Luckily, this site has an amazing ultimate guide to York that outlines all the best things to do and see. Have a look and start getting excited about your trip!
General Do's and Don'ts of York Holidays
Tourists and travellers looking for York city breaks must know the customs and rules of the land of the knights and familiarize themselves with the country before they embark on a journey there. Here is some advice which you, as a general tourist or traveller to England ought to know:
l Travelling from the US to the UK, as well as many other nations, may not know that even if you do bring your credit card along, many stores in Britain use credit cards that are compatible with the 'chip and pin' system that is used in England. The credit cards of US are not compatible with these machines. The cards though will work fine in the ATM machines.
l Also, regarding the visa, for nations that have a visa waiver option with the United Kingdom, travellers will get a visa waiver upon their arrival to the United Kingdom, for example, the USA to UK travellers. They though may have to face interview sometimes where they might even be asked to show their bank statements which would enable England policemen to verify that the traveller can survive during their stay in the United Kingdom.
l Also, as far as the weather is concerned, you would need to know that weather in England is always unpredictable. For example, summer days can be cool at one moment while humid in another part of the day. So, prepare to bring necessary clothes along.
l Next, for travellers from countries like Asia, they should know that if they do intend on taking any electrical stuff to England, they should also take a plug adapter and voltage converter as the electric current is higher in England.
l Language in England is the English of the queen and different from English of other countries around the world. Sentences said innocently can take on unintended meanings. For example, always use the word dust bin, instead of a trash can. Take this as an opportunity to brush up your English and learn queens' English.
4 Tips For Staying Healthy While On Vacation
Going on vacation is something that people look forward to for months and months putting their hard earned aside in order to be able to enjoy a little extra time for themselves. Finding yourself sick on vacation is one of the best ways to completely ruin the trip and find yourself not enjoying yourself one bit. Making sure that you follow the proper precautions in order to enjoy your trip is essential. Try doing the following things in order to ensure that you don't fall into the grips of illness and potentially be miserable when you are supposed to be having a good time. Don't Drink Too Much One of the most common ways that people find themselves getting ill on vacation is by partying too much. It can be easy to fall into the mentality of wanting to have a good time and celebrate on your trip. After all, drinking is something that most people think of when they imagine a vacation away from work and all of their priorities at home. However, if you manage to limit your drinking you will be able to wake up earlier and enjoy your trip much more. Try to make an effort to drink less and not give into daily temptations. Your immune system will be much happier with you for it and you'll find that your stamina goes way up. Carry Precautionary Medication When you are traveling to certain locations which are known for water contamination or food poisoning, you should make sure that you come equipped with the proper bag of meds should anything go wrong. You will want to have diarrhea medication, and anything which might help ease an upset stomach in the event that you start feeling the onset of irritation. You should also pack things like headache medication, first aid ointment, and any regular medications that you take back at home. When it comes to having the right tools on hand to keep you healthy, it's always better to be safe than sorry! Get Plenty Of Sleep You will want to make sure that you get plenty of rest. Between potential jet lag and doing a lot of walking throughout the day sightseeing, fatigue can start to set in. Try to make sure that you get at least 8 hours of sleep a night to avoid falling ill. Even though the temptation to stay up late can be easy to fall into since you have no job to wake up for the next morning, it's a quick way to run yourself thin and get ill. Wash Your Hands Regularly When you are in a place where there are lots of hands touching surfaces regularly, you can easily fall into an illness trap. Try to wash your hands regularly throughout the day and carry a small bottle of hand sanitizer for extra precaution.
The Doctor Prescribes Travel For Your Illnesses
Traveling naturally takes us away from our everyday stressors, and presents us as individuals in a whole new setting, stripping away the facade built by our roles in life. Beyond the obvious enjoyment of discovering a new place, the psychological benefits of travel are numerous. Researchers have found that travel can be helpful in treating several different common illnesses. Chill with us for a moment, and read on while we lay out just a few of the reasons why the doctor would definitely prescribe travel for your afflictions. Travel is excellent addiction therapy Not only is it often helpful to travel to another city, or even country, for addiction rehabilitation, travel itself is effective as treatment for addiction. Though some people may see traveling for addiction treatment as a way to run away, it is quite the opposite. Traveling to treat drug and alcohol addiction is one of the most intensive ways to make yourself face those pesky demons. The best way to become vulnerable is to take yourself out of the situations that facilitate your addiction. Travel is a proverbial reset button for life. Travel has been proven to allay depression The process of traveling to a new destination gives you focus. For however long you choose to travel, there is a clear itinerary to follow. Every day is a race to get from point A to point B in the most effective manner. There is no time to wade in our own self pity and depression if we are focused upon finding the right gate for the next flight. There is no time to be sad when you experience the vast beauty of the Grand Canyon or the Cayman Islands. Physical health gets a boost from activity For those of us who suffer from a sedentary lifestyle, travel is the perfect medicine. It is very difficult to be super lazy when you are traveling around the world. Airports require walking. Beaches require trudging through the difficult sands to enjoy the refreshing splash of the ocean. Perspective is reality The mental repercussions of perspective are strong. A person's perspective is their reality in any given situation. If you think it is hot in the room, it will be hot in the room. Obviously that does not work when the temperature is below freezing, but you get the point. Traveling reframes your perspective on life whether you want it to, or not. Seeing how other people live will change the way you see your life. Vulnerability helps us grow When a person is removed from all their most familiar surroundings, they tend to feel quite vulnerable. When we feel vulnerable, we grow. Allow yourself to be put in new and exciting situations.
Is a holiday rental right for you?
Whether it's a villa in Spain, a Farmhouse in Devon or an apartment in Jamacia, great bargains can be available by booking private holiday properties directly from owners. Facilities vary wildly, but most are great for self-catering, and many include pools and barbecues and great views. Holiday Rentals aren't for people who like to be waited on hand and foot (Check out our All-Inclusive Package Holidays for That).Guests usually do their own cleaning and washing up. But if you don't fancy battling for a sun-lounger each morning, private holiday rental properties can offer space for groups of friends or families with kids who need to let off steam. You can slash food costs by cooking up a storm in the kitchen, and cut luggage space if a washing machine's included. Hotels / Package Holidays vs Holiday properties As a general rule, the larger the group, the bigger the per-person saving. Couples may find hotels sneak ahead of private rentals, though it's always worth checking - Check for Cheap Hotels at Easyhols.com. For families of four or bigger groups, holiday rentals can whup hotels' bottoms on price. For example, a one-bed apartment for a couple in Biarritz for £800/wk in July, yet a comparable double hotel room nearby was just £550/wk. However, we found a three-bed Crete villa for £450 in August, while a similar quality hotel was £1,560. In the UK, a four-bed cottage in the Lake District in August for £630/wk - with eight people staying, that's £11/night each. A comparable hotel for eight people came out at £1,460/wk. The more folks you cram in, the better. If guests kip in the living room (check ahead if there are sofa beds), the savings can rocket.
Exercises to Do While You are Travelling
Travelling is always an exciting pursuit, no matter where go, who with or why. It could be you are taking time out to explore new places, or perhaps you have to travel for business. Or, you might just be taking your regular yearly holiday, or a hard-earned break from work. Even when travelling, exercise and keeping fit is important, yet it can be easy to overlook when you are having fun or entranced by the wonders of a fresh place and culture. That's why we thought we'd talk about exercises that you can do on the move, to keep you healthy and fresh so you can enjoy your travels. First, you can do the simple exercises that are performed back home. If you carry a yoga mat – and they are very light, versatile and cheap – you can unfurl it just about anywhere, and perform sit ups, press ups and more. You may even wish to engage in your preferred yogic practices, or perhaps some other form of meditation. This is important for the well-being of both your body and mind, and helps you relax at a time when it may be difficult to find time to do so. Find an Outdoor Gym Keeping fit is popular the world over, and it is noticeable that there are public outdoor gym sites cropping up everywhere. Even in the UK you can find them in many public parks, and they are a great idea. You won't find many complex items of gym equipment, but the basic items you will be able to use are perfect for travellers who want to keep fit. An outdoor gym will typically include a chinning bar, for example, which is a surprisingly versatile device used for a varied amount of exercises. Chin-ups, pull ups and more are all great exercise when on the move, so if you can, check out where the outdoor gym equipment is available where you are heading. Cycling is a great exercise – and also a great way of getting around many of the world's most exciting towns and cities – so hire a bike and go exploring! Whatever you do, keep on the move, as staying still for too long is not a recommended option. A jog may also be your thing, and you will find many people share your passion in parks across the world. Enjoy Your Travels More than anything, keeping fit while on the move will allow you to enjoy your travelling to the full, so you get more out of your trip. There are so many different countries and cultures in this world and we are lucky to be able to move around relatively easily, so you should take advantage of the freedom of movement we have in most places. Remember to exercise when you can, and keep your body and mind in trim, and you will be able to get the best out of your journey, whether at home or in more exotic climes.
Best Vacation Spots In California
With so many beautiful locations in the United States don't have to book a vacation package outside of the country to get your dose of an amazing spot to travel to. With the wide range of different types of locations from mountains, to the desert, to the beach, there is no shortage of options of places to buy a plane ticket to in your own country. One of the best and most affordable locations being beautiful California. Whether you want to check out the sandy beaches, check out architecture or museums, get in some shopping, or simply relax in a garden, California is your one stop shop. Here are some of the best choices in the Golden State. Palm Springs Known for its beautiful weather all year round, Palm Springs is a great place to take your family on a trip. It is known for its great nightlife, excellent restaurant choices, and shopping. You can stay in a resort for reasonable prices which you can often find online for a good deal. If you are a golf fan make sure to check out their great golf courses with miles of gorgeous green grass and of course equipped with lovely country clubs with a classy interior and delicious food and drinks. Thinking about doing some sightseeing? Try Palm Canyon Drive. There is something for the entire family in this popular tourist area and you are sure to have a great time. Los Angeles The City of Angels is one of the most popular locations to visit in the United States because of its wide variety of things to do and see. Whether you want to have a more lavish experience enjoying the streets of Hollywood and taking tours of where your favorite stars live, or prefer a more bohemian experience in the hip area of Los Feliz sipping on a cocktail or coffee on a terrace, you can find something that will be sure to tickle your fancy. The warm climate makes it a favorite for tourists who want to book a nice hotel with a pool and relax with an umbrella and bendy straw in their drink and forget their troubles. Don't forget there are many film premieres and theaters to check out as well. Los Angeles is not a city to be missed! Just make sure you rent a car since this is not a location known for its outstanding public transportation. San Francisco Good old San Francisco is one of the friendliest cities in the United States. People are known for being extremely warm and friendly to tourists and will be more than happy to help you around town. From art museums to frequent festivals, events, and fairs, there is never a shortage of activities for the whole family in San Francisco.
Vacation Activities For Nature Lovers
When it comes to going on vacation there are lots of things that you can do. From lounging at the pool to sleeping in, to going out to bars and clubs. There are lots of tourist attractions that appeal to the average traveler. However, there are those types of travelers that prefer to enjoy the more natural sides of vacation, taking in the beautiful scenery and sights and avoiding the tourist traps and strip malls. If you are one of these people and you enjoy connecting with nature and have an addiction to beautiful sights, here are some ideas for what to fill your vacation calendar with. Hiking A hike is something that has the power to completely recharge your soul and connect you with some of nature's most incredible views and locations. When you go on a hike you can disconnect from the day to day grind of technology, distractions, and other things that bog your mind down disconnecting you from the magnificent earth that surrounds you. Sometimes you can find locations to hike in places that you never imagined were there. All it takes is a map or a local who has the inside scoop. Try asking around and seeing if there are any hidden gems in your vacation spot which might prove interesting for a great hike. Swimming Sometimes a swim in a beautiful body of water is just what the doctor ordered. Whether it be a lake, river, or a roaring ocean, swimming is something that many nature lovers adore. Try asking the concierge at your hotel if there are any watering holes nearby that they recommend. Sometimes even if you are staying at a beach location and the main beach may seem the obvious place to go, there are often secretly hidden beaches that are more remote and free of tons of other tourists. It is always worth asking around about. Horseback Riding Most places with tourists have horseback riding available. If you look around at brochures offered in tourist locations like cafes and bars you will often find a company that offers tours in the area. If you are lucky you will find a sunset tour or even better and sunset oceanside tour. Depending on where you are in the world you can have some incredible horseback riding sessions which are full of adventure and beautiful views. Ziplining In places like Mexico where there are lots of lush jungle and high heights to swing from, you can find zip lining tours. This means you are suspended onto a zip line which stretches through miles of forest and jungle which you zip through like some kind of wild monkey through the trees. This can be one of the most exciting things you can do as a tourist and is highly recommended if you love the outdoors.
4 Reasons Camping Is a Great Family Vacation
Often when parents start to think about planning a family vacation they start to think of places like Disneyland or other locations which involve plane tickets, lots of money, and luggage. Their heads start to spin as the numbers start adding up and they wonder how they are ever going to afford to take the whole family on a trip without dropping a few thousand that they simply don't have. However, for some reason, they fail to forget that camping is a super fun and affordable option which you can find just about anywhere. A simple Google search will reveal campgrounds or camping spots in the woods in your area which you can get to by car. It may not be as far from your home geographically as you would be if you were to get on an airplane, but you can be sure that you will have a fun adventure with the whole family exploring nature and doing all of the fun stuff that we remember fondly about our family camping trips. Here are the reasons why camping is a great option for your family vacation besides the obvious cost benefits. You Can Teach Your Kids Basic Skills There are certain life skills that come along with camping trips like going fishing, making a fire, and surviving in the woods. They can be great skills to teach your kids for them to carry on into the later years of their lives. In this modern age, the importance of learning things like pitching a tent is getting lost. It can be a great bonding experience to teach your kids all of the fun things that come along with camping. You Can "Unplug" From Modern Society We can become so used to the modern comforts of home that we start to get accustomed to our "plugged-in" lives leaving us to feel disconnected from each other and in some cases depressed. When we stare at screens all day we start to forget the joys that come with the wonders of nature and all it encompasses. Sitting Around The Fire Is a Classic Pastime If you never sat around a bonfire roasting marshmallows singing songs and making your clothes smell like a barbecue then you never really had a childhood. There is nothing more classic than a good old campfire. You can tell ghost stories, make s'mores, and sing songs. Your Kids Will Learn To Appreciate The Basics Camping is fun for a few days then after a while, you start to get a little itchy, you start missing things like televisions, a proper bed, and a hot shower. Your kids may not have ever experienced life without these comforts before, so a camping trip can be a great learning experience to appreciate things they may have taken for granted.
Top Things to Do & See in Cebu Philippines
Most of us dream of white, sandy beaches, palm trees, and vast oceans and picture ourselves soaking up the sun in complete relaxation. You visualize sipping cocktails by the pool, eating gorgeous seafood and walking barefoot along long beaches with your toes occasionally engulfed by gentle waves. Perhaps, you long to hike in rugged mountains, barely touched, wild and beautiful. Perhaps, your dream is to dive great depths and be surrounded by colorful corals and stunning sea life. Perhaps then, you should head to Cebu Island in the Philippines and make all your dreams a reality. Traveling to Paradise You can reach Cebu by air and fly into Mactan-Cebu International Airport or by boat from locations such as Manila or Ozamis. When on the island, you can get around by taxi or use a jeepney, the most popular mode of public transport in Cebu. The Cebu landscape is a stunning mixture of rocky mountains, soft hills, coastal plateaus and an abundance of stunning white, sandy beaches. Vibrant Cebu city offers great shopping, dining and plenty of nightlife entertainment. The island is quite small, only 32 km wide and less than 200km long and easily explorable. Places to Stay in Cebu Cebu has a plethora of gorgeous beach resorts to choose from, featuring inexpensive stunning simplicity or lavish luxury. You may opt for hotel comfort or choose one of the beautiful Cebu vacation houses and enjoy a bit of solitude and seclusion. Things to Do in Cebu For those wishing to go beyond relaxing on the beach for days on end, there are plenty of tourist spots in Cebu. Particularly watersports enthusiast will be delighted with all that is on offer.
Scuba Diving and Snorkeling: Cebu is undoubtedly one of the greatest scuba diving destinations in the world. Take a short boat trip to Pescador Island and be blown away by the underwater cathedrals, stunningly colorful corals and abundance of wildlife including whales and dolphins. The north of Cebu is equally popular among diving enthusiasts with more awe-inspiring colors and vibrant sea life.
Walking and Hiking: You may wish to explore the rugged mountains and climb up to the Top Lookout for the stunning views or trek to Kawasan and Tumalog Falls and take in the exuberance of gorgeous waterfalls. Cebu is a paradise for hikers, both for beginners and those looking to take on more challenging hikes. There are plenty of peaks and mountains to choose from and you can be sure of stunning views whatever peak you conquer.
History and Spirituality: Cebu has a fascinating history and when you go and see the LapuLapu statue you will find out how the local tribes defeated a Spanish army of invaders back in the 17th century under the leadership of LapuLapu. Equally, Cebu's diverse spiritual history is reflected in the Chinese Taoist Temple as well as some beautiful Catholic churches on the island.
Cebu really has it all and I would advise you to travel soon before everyone finds out about it!
6 Amazing Budget Tips to have a Fantastic Holiday
Are you looking to head off on holiday in the near future? Trips abroad can rack up when it comes to costs, so you'll need to make sure you budget in a way in which you're squeezing every penny out of a vacation as possible. Here are six amazing budget tips which'll ensure you have a fantastic holiday.
Book in off seasons
While it won't always be possible, if you can work it so you book your holiday during a period of global "downtime", you'll be able to find prices for flights and accommodation which are considerably cheaper all round. You'll be able to find a plethora of different price comparison websites, which serve to provide you with a detailed list of how much specific flights will cost throughout the course of the year. This could save you as much as 300% off the price of flights in busier periods.
Don't use airport express services
In the UK in particular, these types of direct transportation systems have been implemented for airports to squeeze even more out of their unsuspecting foreign customers. Sure, a direct route to your next destination seems great, but it's horrendously overpriced. These types of journeys can cost as much as four times more – with a trip on the Heathrow Express racking up to as much as £36, when a ride on the Tube would cost just £10 over the exact same distance. This type of "premium" service can be found anywhere across the globe. Don't get caught out.
Watch for hidden costs
You might be aware of the overall price of your holiday, but have you taken those additional extras into account? There are a plethora of hidden costs which can slowly start to rack up, with just some to consider including:
Dog kennels – which can cost £13 a day
Cattery – as much as £8 a day
Vaccinations – prices can reach up to £100
It's these prices which don't initially grab your attention that can often prove the most frustrating – as well as the primary cause of a budget being busted. Paying for something you didn't originally consider is a sure way to lose a grip of your finances.
Stay by a beach
Sure, we'd all love our very own private pool in the Villa we're staying at – but is it really worth the additional cost? This can add up to literally hundreds of pounds excess on top of the cost of your accommodation. To avoid the price piling up, you could instead elect to choose a location which is near to the sea. This serves as your (free) personal swimming pool, which has 24/7 access – assuming conditions are suitable.
Use a pre-paid currency card
These magical cards allow you to transfer money straight from your bank account to the card, working on that current day's exchange rate. This has been proven to beat airport currency exchange rates by 8% and travellers' cheques by 4% when it comes to conversion rates. These cards also have the ability to link to your natural account and then pay for meals, or any other item you're purchasing. Again, the exchange rates are incredibly favourable when compared to flat cash methods.
Find cheap days out
Not every worthwhile attraction is going to cost a fortune. In fact, some won't make you spend so much as a penny. Find venues which offer reasonable prices, or, failing that, just go for long walks through cities or towns of cultural interest or significance. You'll be amazed what kind of gems you'll find. Take heed of these amazing budgeting tips and you'll find yourself saving a fortune when you head off on your holiday. Remember – just because you're going abroad, it doesn't mean you have to break the bank.
Travelling to a Ski Resort? Here's What you Need to Know About Avalanches
Skiing holidays are becoming increasingly popular, and there's good reason. It's the perfect adventure for those looking for a physical trip that thrills, but also offers the chance to kick back and try some great food and drink. After all that exercise, you'll deserve to relax and enjoy your evening sampling some of the local delights. https://www.flickr.com/photos/26786061@N00/13837770764/ But to have a fun and hassle-free holiday, you've got to stay safe. The mountains can be a dangerous place and it's important to be vigilant when on a skiing holiday. First off, this means getting the right equipment, listening to the advice from your resort's experts and not taking any unnecessary risks. You should also know a bit about the greatest danger on the slopes – avalanches. To help you get clued up before your trip, we've gathered five facts you should know about avalanches:
Most people don't understand the real risk of avalanches
There's a tendency for people to think of avalanches are just a cascade of snow falling down a mountain. But that could lead to the assumption avalanches aren't a serious risk, when they can range in severity. Loose snow avalanches, when masses of snow move quickly, are common, but it's slab avalanches you need to watch out for. These occur when densely packed blocks of snow roll down the mountain. They're highly dangerous and account for most avalanche fatalities.
Avalanches can be caused by many things
Although there are two main ingredients (lots of snow and tall mountains), almost anything can trigger the collapse in a weak layer of snow, which sets off the chain reaction of an avalanche and forces vast amounts of snow, ice and other debris down the mountainside. In fact, in 90% of avalanche accidents, the victim or someone in the victim's party causes the snow slide. https://www.flickr.com/photos/137029081@N02/25098954340/
They're hard to predict
As snow fall is unpredictable and ski resorts tend to get busy, avalanches can happen at almost any time. Eric Peitzsch, physical scientist for the U.S. Geological Survey says:"We certainly can't predict every single avalanche and where exactly it's going to be." So if you've been warned to stay off the slopes, it's essential to listen.
Avalanches move quick
Think you'd be able to outrun an avalanche? Think again. Dry snow avalanches can travel at speeds of up 100mph and although wet snow avalanches are slower, they're dense and powerful – almost like moving concrete. It's not something you want to come up against. https://www.flickr.com/photos/timg_vancouver/8612810354/
If you're caught in one, you need to be found quickly
Should the worst happen and you or someone else get caught in an avalanche, the race is on to find the person. If they can be rescued within 18 minutes, the survival rate is greater than 91% but it drops to 34% between 19 and 35 minutes. And after an hour, only one in three victims buried in an avalanche is found alive. If you're caught under snow, try to clear space for you to breathe and stick your hand out, if possible, so you can be seen. Are you a regular skier? Share your safety tips with us. Sources Natural Disasters: The Complete Guide Sales of luxury ski holidays on the rise 11 Facts About Avalanches Everything You Wanted To Know About Avalanches
What you Need to Know Before Selling your House when Travelling
Although a house is a valuable investment, it can turn out to be a burden when you want to travel but have no one to take care of it in your absence. As such, relocating to another city or county can be both scary and exciting with the prospect of challenges and experiences. Among the challenges of relocating is the prospect of not being able to achieve a quick house sale and this may affect your travel plans either by delaying or having to put them to a complete halt. Estate agents often understand the urgency as well as relief that is associated with being able to achieve quick and private house sale before emigrating or relocating.Therefore, if you want a quick house sale before travelling then you must pay attention to the following:
Location – Get to know the different selling points of the location of your property. This may be the presence of social amenities, schools and great infrastructure. Buyers are usually attracted by a number of features other than the house itself. Thus, you will do well to ensure that the estate agent highlights all the property as well as the area so that they can sell your property fast.
Let your mortgage lender know of your intentions - It is prudent to let your lender know that you are moving. This is important because of the mortgage terms and conditions. Failing to inform them may lead to a demand that you repay the mortgage in full or face criminal prosecution. Letting lenders in on your next move is a good way of opening avenues for other options among them moving your mortgage to a buy to let product, paying a slightly higher rate until the property sells and having at least 3 to six months to sell.
Inform your home insurance provider –You will do well to inform your insurer of your intention to travel because by when your house is vacant for more than 30 days, they may apply the clause that removes their liability meaning should anything go wrong, then your insurance is void. Should you resort to renting your house, you will require to change the insurance to the Landlords Buy to Let insurance policy. Although this process is usually simple, failure to take action may attract serious implications particularly when you need to make a claim. Therefore be sure to take care of the insurance soon enough.
Know the tax implications – You need to know the tax implications when you are relocating. If you are relocating to an overseas destination and you meet the following criteria, then you will not need to pay capital gains tax. The criteria is as follows:
Your house was not purchased for income generation purposes and it is your main residence. The house has been your main residence from the time you purchased it. The house has only been used by you and your immediate family members for the period of ownership. Both you and your partner own just one home that is also your main residence. The plot size of your home is not greater than 50,000 square foot. If you meet the criteria outlined above, you don't have to pay Capital Gains Tax on the sale of your property. You may also rent your property for at least three years before putting it up for sale. In fact, this is common where home owners have relocated abroad for a short duration for work. On the other hand, failure to meet the criteria that is defined above means you will have to pay the capital gains tax. Ultimately, you can sell your house before heading out to a new city by laying out plans that are realistic and getting expert help.
Appalachian Trail is one of the most impressive National Scenic Trails in the United States. Millions of people visit it each and every year. Now, whether you are a long-term hiker or a newbie, there are a lot of things you should know about A.T. Proper preparation will determine successfulness of the entire hike so make sure to read these tips!
Plan the length of the hike
Worst thing you can do is to go on the Appalachian Trail without a proper plan. Length of the hike will determine everything. A lot of the hikers hope for a thru-hike only to quite after a few days due to the bad preparation and/or lack of resources. Similarly, you might start hiking for a few days, after which you decide to prolong it only to discover that you don't have enough money. Make sure to plan every mille, how much you can hike per day and ultimately, how many days you plan on remaining on the trail.
You need to be well-rested
Needless to say, you have to be in a good shape before you start the hike. But, some of the hikers make a mistake and decide to start the expedition while tired or under a lot of stress. Truth be told, most of us have tight schedules and we can barely squeeze a couple of days for hiking. Some people believe that hiking will help them alleviate the stress and relax. Although this is true to an extent, you definitely shouldn't be tired when you start the process. Hiking itself is very strenuous and you will be completely drained after a day or two which will force you to quit prematurely.
Plan your supplies
Experienced hikers always opt for dry food. This is the best option. Your food won't spoil as you go and you will also get some extra space in your backpack. If you are going for a longer hike, you should also make a plan for of all the places where you need to resupply. Another thing you need to account for is that you will eat much more while on the trail. In that regard, it is ok to pack a little bit more.
Go ultralight
More and more hikers prefer to travel ultralight. This is especially important for those who wish to thru-hike long trails such as the Appalachian Trail. Wearing a heavy backpack can lead to extra pressure on your back, hips and shoulders which can have long-term consequences. At the same time, it will increase the fatigue while decreasing maneuverability.
Learn more about wildlife
Every trail has its perils. Besides the terrain, wildlife is the second most common cause for concern. When it comes to A.T. bears are the biggest threat. Make sure to cook away from your tent. Bears can easily sniff out the food so you might get unwanted visitors during the night. Also, you should hang your food on trees. Never leave food in your tent. Besides the bears, there are several other dangers among which insects, poison ivy and wild boars are notable.
Think about sleeping
Appalachian Trail has a network of shelters. Nevertheless, you should still carry a tent. You can never tell if a bad weather will struck somewhere along the way and you are forced to seek a temporary protection. Anyway, every hiker should plan how many miles he wishes to cross in a day and where he will sleep afterwards. Besides shelters and tents, there is also an option of renting a bed.
Get more info regarding the weather
A.T. is a rather long trail. Southern areas have much higher average temperature than the northern ones. Temperature and weather will also vary depending on the height. Time of the year also plays a factor. Regardless, you will still need clothes for both the sun and the rain. However, by getting informed in advance, you can at least know what to expect. Preparation is half of the hike. Unless you are a casual hiker who wishes to walk for a day, it is better to learn more about the trail. Hope you have fun!
Top Debt Relief Options in the U.K
If you are getting increasingly anxious about your debt and the fact that the interest on the same seems to be spawning new debts all on its own, then it is time that you considered some of the debt relief options that you can avail, for some relief. While it is a good idea to practice fiscal management and stick to the plan at all times, you may have been forced to take debts for a variety of reasons. Irrespective of the reason you took on that loan, the fact remains that you still have to pay off your creditor and soon at that. So review some of the options listed below to apply for some immediate relief from your debts.
You can set up a debt management plan, managed by a debt management company in consultation with your creditors. The company in question will assess your ability to pay you creditors and settle on an amount which you would be required to remit monthly. And the agreement stays till the debt is paid in full. Remember to set up the agreement with a company that has been authorized by the financial conduct authority or FCA. And most debt management companies would charge a setup fee and a handling fee, each time you make a payment monthly.
If you have been asked to settle your debts in full by a high court or one of the county courts and you are not able to comply, you can apply for an administrative order. You can apply for one as long as the debts to be covered are less than £5000. Remember the courts will not waive any fees and would charge one each time you make a payment, which cannot exceed ten percent of your debt.
Trust Deed Scotland: The Protected Trust Deed is where you come to an agreement with your creditors where in you agree to pay off all your debts with the payment being managed by an insolvency practitioner. Usually you make the payments to the practitioner who then splits it up between your creditors.
Sequestration or Bankruptcy: If you have no funds at all, left to pay the creditors and have no assets to sell, then you can apply for a sequestration order. If you have little to no income and owe your creditors at least £1500, then you can apply for sequestration through MAP or minimal asset process. However, if you do have some income and are still unable to pay off your creditors, you can apply for sequestration where you will be allowed to retain the bare essentials. Apart from this, you would be required to pay a small monthly contribution towards your debtor contribution order.
Scotland has various debt relief options that any debtor can avail and seek protection from creditors. Additionally, you can also apply for a debt relief order and seek immediate relief. With these options listed here you should be able to recover from your debts soon.
Cool Coastal Drives In Australia
Australia is filled with natural attractions, from its lush national parks to its stunning beaches. Hiring a car and taking a road trip is a great way to discover the wonders of Australia at your own pace. Whether you're travelling alone, with friends or bringing the whole family along, there's a number of ways to appreciate the beauty of Australia's famous coast. Check out some cool coastal drives in Australia you can explore today below. The Great Sunshine Way The Great Sunshine Way is a famous coastal drive that explores the northeast coast of Australia in the state in Queensland. Spend time on the stunning beaches of the Gold Coast and enjoy the nightlife of the popular holiday destination before hitting the road to Brisbane. Once at Brisbane you can take in the sights of the subtropical city or walk one of the many bushwalks in the region. Next stop is the historic town of Noosa, where you'll find great surfing locations and boutique arts and crafts markets. There's an option to check out World Heritage-listed Fraser Island before you head on to your final stop of Bundaberg. Bundaberg is known as the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and has a wide range of outdoor activities for all ages and abilities. Grand Pacific Drive The Grand Pacific Drive is one of the most famous and most rewarding drives in Australia. Starting in Sydney, the 140 kilometre route heads south past the historic Sea Cliff Bridge as it juts out from the cliffs, next stop Wollongong. Further south you'll discover the gorgeous coastal towns of Shellharbour, Kiama and Shoalhaven as well as the hinterlands of the Southern Highlands. There's also opportunity to visit the national parks of Eurobodalla before the route ends on the beautiful sands of the Sapphire Coast. Sydney To Melbourne Coastal Drive Sydney and Melbourne are two of Australia's most famous cities. This coastal drive will take you south from the Sydney National Park down Australia's east coast before ending up in Melbourne. Cross the famous Sea Cliff Bridge on your way down to the shores of Bateman's Bay. This coastal area is filled with beaches and bays from Jervis Bay to Booderee National Park. Then pass through the shimmering lakes of Eden and the historic villages on the way to valleys of Walhalla before coming to Foster. Once there you can make a detour to Phillip Island, famous for its little penguin inhabitants. Then it's on to your final destination, Melbourne. The Great Tropical Drive The Great Tropical Drive explores some of the best spots in Queensland. Beginning and ending in the tropical city of Cairns, it is up to you how you navigate the this route. There are 26 different ways to enjoy this drive, each with its own unique challenges and rewards. Some of the attractions you will pass along the way include the Atherton Tablelands, Mission Beach and the Cassowary Coast, Cooktown, Port Douglas and Daintree, Cairns and its beaches, Townsville, Charters Towers and Hinchinbrook and the Gulf Savannah. You will also pass between two World Heritage areas, the Wet Tropics rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef.
Top Destinations for 2017
Since 2016 is slowly slipping through our fingers, it's a perfect moment to start thinking about some new destinations to explore in 2017. There are a lot of them that deserve our attention, but the following five are true gems that mustn't be missed. Stay with us and find out which five countries you should visit next!
Finland – Winter Wonderland
Globetrotters from all across the world are placing Finland at the top of their travelling lists for the next year. After 800 years of fighting between Sweden and Russia, this country finally gained independence in 1917, which will be celebrated in its every region. Finland is also hosting the Nordic World Ski Championships and the World Figure Skating Championships in 2017, which makes it a perfect destination if you're into winter sports.
Breathtaking Bermuda
Located only 1050 kilometres off the coast of North Carolina, Bermuda is one of the most wanted exotic destinations in the world. Its warm climate and favourable winds make this fantastic country sailing-friendly, which is exactly why it was chosen to host the 35th America's Cup (sponsored by Louis Vuitton!). Ringed by mind-blowing reefs, Bermuda's turquoise waters are definitely one of the world's top diving destinations. This country is still a British territory, so you'll be able to experience a unique architecture typical of England that's enhanced even more in a combination with pleasant climate.
Miraculous Mongolia
One thing is certain about this wonderful country – it'll sweep you off your feet and make you fall in love in it as soon as you set your foot on its territory. Mongolia is definitely a one-of-a-kind country with so much to offer – you'll be able to see some traditions of the past that are still practiced today, by the nomads that dwell on deserts and steppes. The legacy of Genghis Khan will make your experience even more unforgettable, as well as the locals' hospitality.
Wondrous Costa Rica
Being the world's happiest country according to the Happy Planet Index, Costa Rica may just be the perfect destination for you in 2017. It's particularly known for its fantastic coffee. Life expectancy in this country is 79 years, which is much higher than in the rest of its Central American neighbours. This is exactly why even buying a house in Costa Rica won't come as a surprise! In addition to its numerous natural wonders, this country is also a heaven for volcano lovers!
Extraordinary Ethiopia
In case you didn't know, Ethiopia has its own 13-month calendar! Its specific cuisine, captivating language, and delicious coffee will make your trip (and your life) much better. Ethiopia's authentic wildlife can't be found anywhere else, which is why you should place this destination on your to-do travelling list for an upcoming year! Several African tribes that populate these landscapes will show you their ancient traditions and customs that remained intact for centuries, which is a great way of getting to know a way of life that was followed by the whole human kind once upon a time.
The Most Beautiful Religious Buildings in the World
The devotion and beliefs of people have helped craft some of the most beautiful buildings in the world. Faiths and religions have manage to inspire intricate, awe-inspiring temples, churches, mosques, synagogues and pagodas that still continue to astonish and amaze the many sightseers and worshippers who visit everyday. The guys over at Travelbag have listed some of their favourite religious buildings across the world, from the Middle East to Europe. Here they are:
Jumeirah Mosque, Dubai
One of the most photographed sites in the whole of Dubai, the construction for Jumeirah Mosque began in 1976. It holds up to 1,200 worshippers and is built entirely of white stone in the mediaeval Fatimid tradition. It welcomes non-Muslims on tours of the impressive building, but women must cover their hair when visiting.
Sagrada Familia, Barcelona
The basilica right in the middle of Barcelona, the Sagrada Familia is still in the process of being built, even though construction of it began in 1882. The unusual design was created by Catalan architect Antoni Gaudi and is a Roman Catholic church with its full name being The Basílica i Temple Expiatori de la Sagrada Família.
Saint Basil's Cathedral, Moscow
Situated in the Red Square of Moscow, the building has an unwieldy official title of 'Cathedral of the Intercession of the Most Holy Theotokos on the Moat' or Porovsky Cathedral. It is shaped as a flame of a bonfire rising in to the sky and unique to Russian architecture. As part of the programme of state atheism, the church was taken off the Russian orthodoz community and has operated as a museum since 1928.
The building in Mecca, Saudi Arabia is the mosque that surround the Kaaba, considered the House of Allah by muslims all over the world. Muslims recognise the Kaaba as the most sacred site in Islam and turn to face it during prayer wherever they are in the world. The Masjid al-Haram covers over 88 acres with plans to increase the mosque's capacity to 2 million by 2020.
Also known as the Great Dagon Pagoda and the Golden Pagoda, this Buddhist temple is situated in Yangon, Myanmar on top of a hill and west of Kandawgyi Lake. It supposedly contains relics of the four previous Buddhas. The pagoda was built anywhere between the 6th and 10th centuries. The crown that sits on top of the structure is tipped with 5,448 diamonds and 2,317 rubies – and the diamond bud that forms its peak is tipped with a 76 carat diamond.
Sheikh Zayed Mosque
Many consider the Sheikh Zayed Mosque as the key site for worship in Abu Dhabi, with a coverage of over 30 acres. The building was completed in 2007, with the design and construction using craftspeople and materials from a number of countries including the UK, New Zealand, Italy, India, Germany, Morocco, Turkey, Malaysia, China, Iran, Pakistan and the Republic of Macedonia.
Kashi Vishwanath Temple
One of the most famous Hindu temples, it is dedicated to Lord Shiva and located in Uttar Pradesh, India. It lies on the banks of the Ganges. Two domes of the building are covered in gold donated by the Sikh Maharaja Ranjit Singh. Built in 1780, the temple gets around 3,000 visitors a day – although during busy periods around feast days, that number is normally around the 1,000,000 mark.
Iranian Mosque, Dubai
This holy building is a Shia mosque, which can be found near the old textile souk in the Bur Dubai district. The design is Persian architecture, with a azure blue façade and onion dome.
Break out the hiking boots and slap on the sunscreen because it's time for an outdoor and adventure trip. One of the best ways to discover a foreign country is to walk the land, sleep under the stars, admire the natural beauty and swap smiles with locals in far-off villages. These 10 classic treks are for serious walkers. All of them require a sturdy pair of lungs, fit legs and a good amount of preparation. However, if you choose to go on any of these trails then you will be rewarded with experiences that last a lifetime. Here are 10 of our favorite hikes around the world.
INCA TRAIL, PERU
This 33 kilometer (20mi) ancient trail was laid by the Incas and is currently traversed by thousands each year. The trail leads from the Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu winding its way up and down and around the mountains, taking three high passes en route. Views of white-tipped mountains and high cloud forest combine with the magic of walking from one cliff-hugging ruin to the next – understandably making this South America's most famous trail.
THE SNOWMAN TREK
Trekking this route is not for the faint of heart, or lungs. This high-altitude ball-buster crosses 11 passes over 14,000 feet along the Tibet-Bhutan border. Along the way you'll visit magical Buddhist monasteries clinging to the sides of cliffs and pass through secluded villages full of windblown smiles. It takes about 24 days to complete, and the window of perfect weather is very small, mainly in October.
GR20, FRANCE
This demanding 15- day (168km, 104mi) slog through Corsica is legendary for the diversity of landscapes it traverses. There are forests, granite moonscapes, windswept craters, glacial lakes, torrents, peat bogs, maquis, snow-capped peaks, plains and névés (stretches of ice formed from snow). But it doesn't come easy: the path is rocky and sometimes steep, and includes rickety bridges and slippery rock faces – all part of the fun. Created in 1972, the GR20 links Calenzana, in the Balagne, with Conca, north of Porto Vecchio.
PAYS DOGON, MALI
'The land of the Dogon people' is one of Africa's most breathtaking regions. A trek here can last anywhere between two and 10 days, and takes in the soaring cliffs of the Bandiagara escarpment inlaid with old abandoned cliff dwellings. Dogon villages dot the cliffs and are an extraordinary highlight of the journey. The Dogon are known for their masked stilt dancers, intricately carved doors and pueblo-like dwellings built into the side of the escarpment.
EVEREST BASE CAMP, NEPAL
Reaching a height of 5,545m (18,193ft) at Kala Pattar, this three-week trek is extremely popular with those who want to be able to say, 'I've been to the base of the world's highest mountain'. The difficult trek passes undeniably spectacular scenery and is trafficked by Sherpa people of the Solu Khumbu. The heights reached during this trek are literally dizzying until you acclimatise to the altitude, and the continuous cutting across valleys certainly has its ups and downs.
HAUTE ROUTE
This stunner is the Mercedes of the trekking world; you'll get to gaze upon some of the world's most famous peaks, Mont Blanc and the Matterhorn. The trail's name means "high route," and it takes about 12 days to hike the 111 miles from the Chamonix valley in France to Zermatt, Switzerland. Brush up on your French; it'll help to communicate in the small villages along the way.
OVERLAND TRACK, AUSTRALIA
Tasmania's prehistoriclooking wilderness is most accessible on the 80km (50mi, five- to six-day) Overland Track. Snaking its way between Cradle Mountain and Lake St Clair (Australia's deepest natural freshwater lake), the well-defined path (boardwalked in parts) passes craggy mountains, beautiful lakes and tarns, extensive forests and moorlands. Those who want more can take numerous side walks leading to waterfalls, valleys and still more summits including Mt Ossa (1,617m, 5,305ft) – Tassie's highest.
ROUTEBURN TRACK
See the stunning subalpine scenery of New Zealand's South Island surrounding this medium three-day (32km, 20mi) track. At the base of New Zealand's Southern Alps, the track passes through two national parks: Fiordland and Mt Aspiring. Highlights include the views from Harris Saddle and atop Conical Hill – from where you can see waves breaking on the distant beach. The main challenge for this popular hike is actually securing a place among the limited numbers who are allowed on the track at any time.
HIMALAYAS, INDIA
Fewer folk trek on the Indian side of the world's greatest mountain range. So, if isolation's your thing try trekking in Himachal Pradesh. Hardcore hikers can try teetering along the mountain tops for 24 days from Spiti to Ladakh. This extremely remote and challenging walk follows ancient trade routes. The bleak high-altitude desert terrain inspired Rudyard Kipling to exclaim, 'Surely the gods live here; this is no place for men'.
BALTORO GLACIER, PAKISTAN
This corridor of ice leads to the colossal peak of K2 (8,611m, 28,251ft), the world's second-highest peak. This incomparable trek traverses some of the most humbling scenery on the planet. What begins following icy rivers boldly goes to the guts of the glacier before leading to the granite pyramidal mountains including Paiju (6,610m, 21,686ft), Uli Biaho (6,417m, 21,053ft), Great Trango Tower (6,286m, 20,623ft) and ultimately K2. If the 15 days doesn't floor you, take side trips to more moraine-covered glaciers.
New York rents put restaurants in the soup Will Pavia, New York
The diners of New York are being served some bitter news: their city may no longer be the food capital of America. Dizzying rent rises have been blamed for closing a number of restaurants this year and forcing adventurous, acclaimed chefs into exile in cities such as Chicago and Minneapolis. For a populace that regards eating out as a necessity only slightly less vital than oxygen and clean drinking water, the outlook seems desperate. There have even been suggestions that Los Angeles may now be a better place to have lunch. "If it's not true now it will be pretty soon," said Amanda Cohen, founder of Dirty Candy, a celebrated vegetarian restaurant in Lower Manhattan that serves mushroom mousse and brussels sprout tacos, with side dishes of jalapeño hush puppies and beetroot chunks salt-roasted like popcorn. "Rents are high, property taxes are high, food costs are high," she said. "I certainly wouldn't look to open a restaurant here. It's not worth it now." Zagat, the restaurant guide, recorded 53 notable restaurants closing last year and the tally was expected to be worse in 2016. Chefs have blamed rising rents and a new law mandating a minimum wage for waiters who were previously expected to augment their salary with tips. The NYC Hospitality Alliance, which represents many of the city's restaurants, has suggested that restaurants be allowed to add an "administrative fee" to bills, to "help offset many of the financial pressures they face, from skyrocketing rents to government mandates." An executive at the Union Square Hospitality Group — which runs some of the most celebrated restaurants in the city — warned that the costs of doing business were currently driving out inventive cooking. "The creativity is leaving Manhattan because it can't afford to be here," Richard Coraine told the New York Post. "I think LA is the best food city in America [right now]." David Santos, who ran a well- regarded bistro in the West Village until last year, said that initially a cohort of his colleagues had moved to Brooklyn until prices there rose too. "Queens still has its places," he said. "But you are really starting to see a big chunk of people leave New York City." The exodus was causing a flowering of fine dining in so-called "second cities", he said. "Nashville, Asheville, Charleston, Minneapolis — they're all having a food movement." Gavin Kaysen, formerly of the chic Manhattan establishment Café Boulud, is now running a restaurant in Minneapolis, he said. Another friend, Jason Neroni, is running a large restaurant in Venice Beach, Los Angeles. "He could be doing something in New York but instead he's got a 200-seat restaurant, a few blocks from the beach, and he's paying almost 40 per cent less for space. It's a monster of a place," he said. Mr Santos was forced to shut his own restaurant in the West Village after the landlord raised his rent from $18,000 to $30,000. "To cope with that you need to be making about $3 million a year in a 55-seat restaurant," he said. "That's really hard. The first year we did about $1.8 million and change." Like other chefs, he sees New York's smaller fine dining establishments being replaced by so-called fast casual restaurants, which resemble high-end fast food restaurants and can seat many more diners. He is working on a new gourmet soup dispensary, Good Stock, which was due to open its first branch in a food hall on Saturday.
We're mad to turn our backs on vibrant Africa
Whitehall and the British political elite don't think the continent matters any more, which is a colossal misjudgment rclays, Africa and I go back a long way. As a new undergraduate landing in 1960s Britain from Swaziland, I was going to need a current account. In Africa, Dad's had been with Barclays. But from every wall the posters barked: the students union commanded all first-years to boycott Barclays because it was doing business in South Africa. I walked straight into the nearest branch, opened an account, and kept it for forty years. My family hated apartheid: but we knew that if you want change in Africa, engagement is the answer. There are two reasons for dismay at this week's news that Barclays is to end a century's huge presence on the continent. First, that it is to happen at all. Second, that nobody in modern Britain seems to care. When I heard him interviewed on BBC radio this week, Jes Staley, the bank's incoming American chief executive, wasn't even asked about Africa: an item, then, only for the City pages? No. Where and with whom we do business reflects our wider world view. If Barclays is losing confidence in Africa, and Britain is looking the other way, then we make an historic mistake. I have no competence to interrogate Mr Staley's commercial wisdom. Apparently currency worries with South Africa, and the fact that Barclays is saddled with liability for more than it is allowed to own, have played their part. But I cannot help feeling the move also signals a philosophical shift in a big British bank's idea of its place in the world. This is the wrong moment to lose faith in Africa. Post-empire it's the moment for Britain to re-set the relationship. Yet not only do I lack confidence we've got our Africa policy right, I doubt we even have one.
Our politicians and policymakers have simply shrugged Africa off, or, worse (as if Africa were a matter for charity rather than diplomacy), sub-contracted it to the virtual reality of the Department for International Development: the world of "lily-pad" and "capacity-building" and a special language nobody understands, and new white Toyotas with nowhere to go; the only government department in history that starts with the money and then ponders how to spend it. The FCO have some outstanding men and women in post in Africa, and some good, experienced senior officers on Africa desks in Whitehall, but I don't think they lead policy. We've kept open posts on the continent so the lights are on; but is anybody in Westminster at home? Focus is missing because the people at the top in Whitehall and in politics don't really
Africa's GDP is above 4 per cent. It is a wonderfully innovative continent
think sub-Saharan Africa matters. Post-empire, they never have. On joining the diplomatic service after university I was fast made aware that ambitious diplomats became Atlanticists, Europeanists, Arabists or Kremlinologists. We were walking away from our history. Africa was (if we were honest) an embarrassment. What would have been my first posting, to Nairobi, was a hint that the fast track was not for me. In our informal FCO lingo we had a name for postings like mine. We called them the Outer Darkness. The Outer Darkness had its departmental officers in Whitehall, but if you were going places as a thrusting young diplomat in the corridors of King Charles Street, you steered past the door marked SAD (Southern Africa department) with a shudder. In today's FCO lingo they say that sub-Saharan Africa "isn't taking up much of the band-width". Today you interest a government minister in an Africa-based narrative by talking about Islamic terrorism or migrants. So North and Arab Africa, Somalia, Ethiopia, northern Nigeria, even Kenya, get the diplomatic juices flowing. But for the wrong reasons. Here are the right ones. Africa's GDP has been growing strongly for a long time: still above 4 per cent. Even after the 2008 banking crisis, growth stayed buoyant. The continent's population is growing too: Africa is expanding fast as a market. It now has a bigger middle class than India. The rest of the world has noticed. While the UK's share of sub-Saharan Africa's external trade has been stuck at about 3 per cent for years, our competitors' shares have been growing. Everyone knows about China's huge (if fluctuating) interests in Africa; but Brazil, Turkey — even, recently, America's Kentucky Fried Chicken — have been moving in. I could bore you with figures for Africa's astonishing share of our planet's mineral resources, but it's not just what can be extracted: these are real and growing economies, real markets, real consumers. And Britain is so well placed to take advantage. Here in the UK two tremendous misconceptions about sub-Saharan Africa thrive. The first is an essentially left-wing myth, the second essentially right-wing. First, that everybody there hates us as their cruel former colonial masters. Second, that now we've quit our colonies the whole place is a hell-hole: dangerous, dirty and chaotic. Both are so horribly out of date. The politics of sub-Saharan Africa do in many places remain unstable, occasionally despotic, more often simply incompetent. But there are as many success stories, and even where government fails, Africa finds ways of sidelining a wonky top tier. This is a wonderfully innovative continent. Money moves by mobile phone. Private schools and hospitals are set up where public provision fails. Business and commerce fill the gaps. If the power supply is unreliable, you buy a back-up generator. Heaven knows we may come to this in Britain too. In Africa the tourist or visiting business executive can stay, move, eat and travel with ease and comfort. One would hardly think so from the pictures presented in the British media. I've just returned from Zimbabwe, where I've never felt safer or more welcome. The idea, meanwhile, that we British start at a disadvantage in our former colonies is way out of date. We are not remembered unkindly by many of the older generation, who may have been through much since then. Meanwhile, younger Africa has moved on. When you say "London" to anyone under 35 in sub-Saharan Africa, they think "cool". They think "home of my second language". They think style and technology and music. They think books and learning. They think justice and the rule of law. They think football. Perhaps, after empire, we did need to step back. Perhaps the pause has been necessary both for ourselves, and for Africa, to reflect on the good and the ill we brought. But that's over. What Africa has now is promise, energy and possibility. This is no time to turn away.
South Africa seek true colours
Coach talks a good game but he is fighting on many fronts The historian and journalist RW Johnson, a one-time-confidant of Nelson Mandela, believes that the survival of South Africa as a unitary state cannot be guaranteed. In a new book — How Long Will South Africa Survive? The Looming Crisis — he also talks about the "eye-watering corruption" and spectacular shortcomings of the ruling ANC government. On Saturday, the national rugby team come to Twickenham with problems mirrored in the state of their country at large, and others strictly their own. If they win it will be a magnificent effort against all odds. The likes of Eddie Jones, Warren Gatland and Steve Hanson have a job which is blissfully easy compared to that of Allister Coetzee, the small, softly-spoken and — on the evidence of a meeting last week — engaging, honest and courageous man, who last year became only the second non-white national coach in South African history. Coetzee's task is horribly difficult. A fine book on the machinations which South African rugby coaches face, titled The Poisoned Chalice, may have a potential new chapter on him, for all his strengths. His early results have been horrendous — the Springboks conceded nearly 100 points in their two games against New Zealand in the recent Rugby Championship. One key observer said South African rugby "has fallen off a cliff". The greatest rivalry in international rugby bar none has become a walkover. Our politicians and policymakers have simply shrugged Africa off, or, worse (as if Africa were a matter for charity rather than diplomacy), sub-contracted it to the virtual reality of the Department for International Development: the world of "lily-pad" and "capacity-building" and a special language nobody understands, and new white Toyotas with nowhere to go; the only government department in history that starts with the money and then ponders how to spend it. The FCO have some outstanding men and women in post in Africa, and some good, experienced senior officers on Africa desks in Whitehall, but I don't think they lead policy. We've kept open posts on the continent so the lights are on; but is anybody in Westminster at home? Focus is missing because the people at the top in Whitehall and in politics don't really
Passengers face paying a fee for disputes with airlines
The industry regulator is cutting back on its free complaints service — and alternative schemes may charge Air passengers could be charged £25 if they complain about a carrier such as British Airways or easyJet, under a new set of arbitration services funded by the industry. A total of 19 airlines have so far registered with alternative dispute resolution (ADR) schemes, which mediate between passengers and carriers in disputes relating to flight delays, cancellations, missing or damaged luggage, and compensation. The services can be used if the customer has already complained to an airline but is unhappy with the response. However, one of the new services — the Centre for Effective Dispute Resolution (CEDR), which deals with disputes involving British Airways, easyJet, Thomas Cook and TUI — charges £25 if a claim is "100% unsuccessful". Those who win their cases do not have to pay. Previously, passengers who were not satisfied with an airline's response could complain to the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), the airline regulator, which would mediate free of charge regardless of the result of the case. It is cutting back on its service, however, and said it will mediate only for airlines not registered with an ADR scheme. The CAA has won £17m in compensation for passengers over the past three years. The other three ADR service providers are: the Retail Ombudsman (airlines signed up to it include Flybe, Ryanair and Air Canada); the German service Söp (airlines include Eurowings and Lufthansa); and NetNeutrals, which is in talks with eight airlines about registering. The Retail Ombudsman and Söp are completely free for customers to use, regardless of the outcome of their claim. NetNeutrals charges passengers £10 but this will be refunded if they win their case. A full list of which airlines deal with which arbitration services can be found at tinyurl.com/CAA-arbitration. ADR versus CAA: what's the difference? The CAA says its rulings are not legally binding, so airlines do not have to pay even if it finds in favour of the passenger. This has left many people seeking compensation through the courts or dealing with claims lawyers, who pocket up to 30% of any compensation. The claims lawyer Bott & Co said it had dealt with 53,641 cases so far this year, with easyJet accounting for 25% of complaints, followed by Thomson (14.5%) and Ryanair (14%). By contrast, airlines are "contractually obliged" to adhere to the ruling of an ADR service. EasyJet said: "Our current ADR scheme was chosen based on its competence and suitability to provide alternative dispute resolution procedures for us." It added that the service costs it more than other ADR schemes. What do airlines have to pay in compensation? You can claim compensation for delayed or cancelled flights if you fly from an airport in the EU or travel to an EU airport on an airline that has its head office in the bloc. The level of redress depends on the length of the journey and the delay. If the hold-up means you arrive three hours or more after the scheduled time and the trip is less than 1,500km — for example, from London to Paris — you can claim the minimum €250 (about £181 at the current exchange rate). If the flight is 1,500km to 3,500km — say, from Manchester to Malaga — you can seek €400. The maximum €600 can be claimed if a flight is delayed by more than four hours and the journey is greater than 3,500km. If a flight is delayed by more than two hours, the airline must offer refreshments and free phone calls. After a five-hour delay, passengers can cancel the trip and demand a full refund and a flight back to their place of departure. Airlines do not have to pay if there were "extraordinary" circumstances beyond their control, such as industrial action or extreme weather conditions. Money has reported several cases of airlines trying to wriggle out of payments citing such reasons — only to relent when court action is threatened. It is hoped ADR schemes will lead to fewer court threats being made. Tim Johnson, policy director at the CAA, said: "If passengers don't get a satisfactory outcome to their complaint from their airline, using an approved alternative dispute resolution provider gives them a simple way to get a prompt, fair and binding decision on their dispute — meaning they don't have to resort to court action." How do I complain? If you think you are entitled to compensation, you must first complain to the airline. This can usually be done online or by filling in a form. The airline then has up to eight weeks to respond to your complaint. If you are not satisfied with its response, you can ask the CAA or an ADR scheme to deal with the case.
Airline can seat passengers by their weight
An airline has won the right to assign seats on flights according to the weight of passengers after multiple legal challenges were thrown out. Six complaints were filed with the US transportation department against Hawaiian Airlines, with people of Samoan descent perceived to be being discriminated against by the policy. The airline said that the measure — where some seats are sold only to children or left unsold altogether — was introduced this month to help to conserve fuel on the route between Honolulu and Pago Pago in American Samoa. Under the policy, travellers will no longer be able to pre-select seats and check-in staff will decide where to place passengers to ease fuel consumption. An estimated 74 per cent of American Samoans are obese, according to 2007 figures, making the territory's people the fattest in the world. Seats will continue to be assigned to enhance fuel efficiency, while Jon Snook, the airline's chief operating officer, suggested that the complaints were based on an "incorrect assumption [of discriminatory intent]". This is not the first time that an airline has filtered passengers by weight: in 2013, Samoa Air began charging according to weight. Hawaiian Airlines does not fly to Britain and there are no plans for British airlines to trial seat-selection by weight.
Cath Kidston takes on Asian flavour with Baring takeover
An Asian private equity group has taken full control of Cath Kidston before the UK retailer's further push to expand its sales of floral pattern teacups and floral bags across Asia. Baring Private Equity said yesterday that it had bought out TA Associates in a transaction that marked the exit of the American private equity group. The purchase price has not been disclosed. Baring, one of the largest private equity groups in Asia, first invested in Cath Kidston in July 2014 when it bought a minority stake from TAA. Paul Mason is stepping down as chairman of Cath Kidston and will be replaced by William Flanz, a senior adviser to Baring since 2003 and the former chairman and chief executive of the Gucci Group. Kenny Wilson, chief executive of Cath Kidston, which has 133 stores in Asia, said that the retailer would benefit from having a single owner, adding that Baring had already been invaluable in helping its expansion in Asia. Mr Wilson has said that part of Cath Kidston's appeal in Asia was its essential Britishness and a growing taste for feminine, floral patterns and products that imbued a feeling of country life in increasingly crowded Asian cities.
Enough whitewashing of central Asia's tyrants
Western cosying up to unsavoury dictators must include an insistence on better human rights Try as he might, playwright George Bernard Shaw could not find a bad thing to say about Stalin's Soviet Union. The workers? Not downtrodden at all, he wrote after a 1933 trip, but hopeful and enthusiastic. As for the purges of Stalin's critics: "They often have to be pushed off the ladder with a rope around their necks." Blinkered liberals — not just Shaw but the likes too of Beatrice Webb — were useful to the tyrant in Moscow. They created a fog around Stalin's intentions, muffled protest, justified inaction. Today wealthy and corrupt autocratic leaders in the central Asian republics, Russia's backyard, are performing a similar whitewash: they are signing up former statesmen (and not just Tony Blair), commissioning hagiographies and paying top dollar to western PR companies to rebrand their image. It's not just about the cash, though there is plenty around. Vanity is in play too, the idea that the West can make a mark on countries such as Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan at a time when they are uncomfortable with the competing interest of Russia and China. The West, in other words, can be part of the Great Game again. In the 19th century the contest pitted the British Empire against the tsar over Afghanistan and its neighbours. We thought Russia could make a grab for India; they thought we were stirring trouble in their soft underbelly. Today, the likes of Nursultan Nazarbayev, president of Kazakhstan — which boasts big reserves of oil, gas and uranium — are worried about becoming over-dependent on an internationally isolated Russia. And nervous too about China's "Silk Road" project, building roads and railways along the routes that once carried silk, ceramics and paper to the West. This has been sold by Beijing as a hugely ambitious way of revitalising the region. To the Kazakhs the scheme is beginning to look like Chinese self-enrichment and a kind of colonialism-lite.
Storms leave 1.7 million without power in Australia
Wild storms have left 1.7 million people in South Australia facing chaos with no electricity and flights grounded. The extreme weather was moving into New South Wales yesterday with more heavy rain and damaging winds forecast. Strong gales left a trail of damage, downing transmission lines and closing the national grid. The storms were so severe that wind turbines had to be shut down, reigniting a debate about the state's reliance on renewable energy. About 40 per cent of South Australia's power supply is provided by wind farms and solar energy, prompting Barnaby Joyce, Australia's deputy prime minister, to raise concerns about the state's increasing dependence on green energy. "The question has to be asked: is [South Australia's] over-reliance on renewable energies exacerbating their problems and their capacity to have a secure power supply?" Mr Joyce, the leader of the coalition National Party, said. Malcolm Turnbull, the prime minister, described the storm as a "wake-up call" for government leaders who were aiming for unrealistic renewable energy targets. Energy security had to be the government's top priority, he said. "We must keep the lights on and while we are transitioning to a lower emissions future, we will not compromise on energy security," he said. The electricity crisis has brought Australia's energy policy into sharp focus, with the role of coal-fired power plants once again dominating public debate. Australia, one of the world's largest producers of coal, is among the biggest emitters of carbon. Cheap and plentiful coal supplies have kept energy costs down but the closure of coal-fired power stations and the move towards renewable energy mean increased prices for consumers. Australia is used to extreme weather conditions but events in South Australia over the past two days are exceptional. The storms were forecast but few could have predicted the impact they would have on daily life. Trains and trams came to a standstill, office workers were trapped in lifts, hand-written boarding passes were given to those hoping to travel by air and a woman about to undergo surgery in hospital was on the operating table when the lights went out. Tens of thousands of people were still waiting to get their power back in South Australia and the Bureau of Meteorology said that further winds and heavy rain would move towards Victoria and New South Wales.
County duo deported by Australia
Two English cricketers have been refused entry into Australia and deported without getting past airport immigration. Durham bowler Chris Rushworth and Worcestershire wicketkeeper Ben Cox have been held in separate incidents by Australian immigration for attempting to enter the country without the correct visas. Many English cricketers spend the winter playing club or grade cricket in Australia and receive wages for playing. They are also given accommodation and expenses by their host club. However, it is understood that the duo had tourist visas rather than working visas. It is notoriously difficult to obtain a working visa for Australia because of their skills-based points system and, despite being sponsored by their prospective clubs, players are not always able to get the right documentation. There is no suggestion of any deliberate wrongdoing by the players. Cox, who was due to spend much of the winter playing in Adelaide, flew to Australia this week but was held and questioned by border officials before being deported. Rushworth was due to play for Brighton Cricket Club, also in Adelaide, but did not make it past immigration before being put back on a plane to England. If an individual is spotted with a cricket bag, immigration authorities will investigate the nature of their visit and whether they are being paid. If a visa is cancelled, it could prohibit a return to the country for three years. The Professional Cricketers' Association gives guidance to its members about applying for visas but it is down to the individual to apply and complete the application in conjunction with their Australian host cricket club. Gloucestershire's Ian Cockbain was not refused entry to Australia to play club cricket there this winter, contrary to what we reported in an earlier version of this story. He is currently playing in Western Australia.
Eco-friendly breaks to rave about in Ibiza
A new type of tourism is slowly taking off in the hedonistic clubbers' paradise, and it has its roots in sustainability and respect for the island's land and local produce, writes Manchán Magan You wouldn't judge Ireland as a travel destination on the basis of its ugliest industrial estate. By the same token, Ibiza should never be presented solely in terms of its eardrum-assaulting dance abattoirs. Inarguably, Ibiza, which has a full-time population a little larger than Cork city, has mastered the art of partying, but beyond its dens of fluorescent iniquity there is much more. The vast majority of this small island off the coast of Spain is a lush realm of walnut, carob and fig trees on terraced hillsides that stretches up to a pine-clad wilderness and looks down on to a craggy shoreline of hidden coves.
Club culture has undoubtedly been lucrative for the Balearic isle, but Ibizans made their hopes for future tourism clear last year when nearly 25,000 citizens — almost a quarter of the population — signed a petition to stop MTV filming a spin-off of its Jersey Shore reality series there. Local business associations urged people not to collaborate with the production so that the company was forced to cancel the show. While still a Mecca for nightlife, the island is undergoing a turn from ketamine-fuelled debauchery towards the ecological, offering fine "agritourism" guesthouses, eco-retreats, organic wine and olive producers, and farm-to-table restaurants — picture hip, boho northern California in the middle of the Mediterranean. The move is less a complete change and more a return to Ibiza's green roots: bohemian artists and hippies pioneered such ideas in the 1960s and 1970s before the techno beat kicked in and drowned them out.
Casita Verde sells a range of products made from locally grown organic carob seeds
This swing back to sustainability was sparked by a spate of ferocious forest fires in 2011, which ripped through the dense undergrowth that had been left unfarmed for decades, burning many homes and threatening others. Turning to their water sources, Ibizans realised how low their aquifers had fallen, wasted on pools, showers and needless irrigation for tourism. France and mainland Spain sent water-planes to douse the flames, but warned they would be reluctant to come again unless islanders began maintaining their land. Locals were forced to begin cultivating their ancestral farms and, while doing so, uncovered a wealth of fruit and nut trees that had been choked for years.
A busy Casita Verde
As a result, many restaurants, hotels, guesthouses and farm shops are now leading the island's baby steps towards a more environmentally-friendly form of tourism. Some of the Ibizan hotels classed as agriturismo — tourist ventures on farms — are actually swanky retreats with manicured grounds and chemically-treated swimming pools rather than true working farms: the most high-profile of these is Atzaro, a multimillion dollar "rustic-chic" resort, spa and music venue with a vague tint of eco-branding.
Travel tips: Wine and spa in the Duero
Wallow in wine treatments in Spain's Duero wine area, where the historic hotel Abadia Retuerta LeDomaine has some great packages featuring vinotherapy at its new spa. For instance, the three-night spa gourmet getaway includes breakfasts, two dinners and two lunches, a "grand cru" two-hour spa package, and a free mini bar. It costs from £1,470 for two. The hotel reopens after its winter renovation in March, with rooms from £324 a night. Eight new guest rooms have direct spa access. More details on ledomaine.es. Cheaper holidays It's good news for UK holidaymakers: the strength of sterling and local price cuts mean the cost of a holiday in 23 of 44 key worldwide travel destinations has fallen, according to the latest report from Post Office Travel Money. The cheapest place in Europe is the Algarve in Portugal, with prices down more than 18 per cent in the past year, while Cape Town offers the best value for long-haul travellers, with prices down 20 per cent. Japan city guides If you're heading to Japan — and it's one of those countries that is great value now — take a look at these city guides, which give hotel and restaurant recommendations, itineraries depending on your length of stay, and first-timer guides. Insidekyoto.com is joined this weekend by its sister site trulytokyo.com. Future guides will feature Hong Kong, Singapore and mainland China. Wolfgang Puck at Coworth Park Calling all Wolfgang Puck fans: the chef's signature dishes, including the lip-smacking organic chicken and black truffle "pot pie" and marinated Szechuan steak with shitake mushrooms, will feature at a "pop-up" restaurant in the Coworth Park hotel from February 19 to March 6. Puck, whose dishes feature at the Cut restaurant in 45 Park Lane, has designed the special menus (which start from £32) for brunch, lunch and dinner. Rooms start from £355 B&B, including a £70 credit to be used in the restaurant (dorchestercollection.com).
Merkel must solve Europe's identity crisis
First EU summit since the Brexit vote will be held this week with the union's future in doubt Brexit is turning into the political equivalent of Schrödinger's cat. As long as the government refuses to invoke Article 50 and open the box, Brexit will resemble the moggie in the famous paradox, both alive and dead. That strange limbo encourages silliness among British politicians — Liam Fox leads the field with his rant against unpatriotic golfers — but also a wilful blindness about what is going on in Europe. The fact is that we are fast becoming yesterday's problem. There is no queue to leave the EU — one Eurosceptical minister at a Polish mountainside retreat last week described Brexit to me as the Great Leap Backwards — and no sense of urgency about accommodating Britain's new needs. We may flatter ourselves that the upcoming Bratislava summit of the rather large rump of the EU, the 28 Minus One, will be all about the British question. Seen from Europe, that question was answered on June 23 and the chief anxiety is about the likely return of the migrant exodus; how to deal not only with the numbers but with issues of identity, of the rights of national parliaments to resist centralised control by the European Commission. The task of finding solutions to the multiple crises on the continent is being left, as ever, to Angela Merkel at the most wobbly moment in her career. Under the force of mass migration, Europe seems to be splintering into three blocs. First there are the northern states — the Nordics, the Baltics, and the Netherlands — which still abide by the good housekeeping rules set by Germany. Then there are the southern Club Med states that want to bend those rules and demand more solidarity on illegal migration from the north. And there's the awkward squad in central Europe, who feel let down by what they see as a bullying Commission and are beginning to challenge some of the founding principles of the EU. These power hubs are fluid. An enfeebled French government sometimes seems to be a more natural member of the Club Med. The Dutch and the Danes could find themselves aligned with central Europeans in showdowns with Brussels. Poland and Hungary, though seemingly the new leadership tandem in the east, are at odds over how to deal with Vladimir Putin. Merkel's way of threading together a modern problem-solving Europe, a post-Brexit pragmatism, is to identify and encourage a favourite among the southern leaders. Matteo Renzi, the Italian prime minister, is her man. "We do not bring extravagant requests for help or concessions," Renzi said, drawing applause from the German leader. "We are offering something to Europe to help it return to being a community, rather than reducing itself day after day to a mere contract." In that spirit, the post-Brexit EU states will meet in Rome next spring to renew their vows. Merkel likes that — her grudge against Britain was that its relationship with the EU was framed too much as a contract — and she will fight hard behind the scenes to help Renzi win a constitutional referendum later this year. "The Mediterranean now carries more weight than the Channel," a proud Italian headline said the other day. Renzi, if he survives, will be put in the driving seat of southern Europe, dealing with the migrants and playing a lead European role in stabilising Libya. It is, however, the central Europeans who are the coming force. Viktor Orbán, the Hungarian prime minister, sees Brexit as a golden opportunity to argue his case for a return to national and regional action rather than intrusive rule from Brussels. He is not alone in central Europe in predicting that the Turkish migration deal with the EU will fall apart. The answer, he says, is not a system of compulsory quotas for taking in migrants, but a reinforcement of the Schengen zone's external borders. Hungary is about to build a second wall on its frontier, and works with its neighbours to plug weak spots.
The answer, Orban says, is not a system of compulsory quotas for taking in migrants, but a reinforcement of the Schengen zone's external borders
On October 2 Hungary will hold a referendum that will probably voice national opposition to EU-imposed quotas. That will be a launch pad for further central European demands for less Europe, more national sovereignty. According to Orbán, the European dream has moved from the west to the east, and it's a very different one. Merkel does not much like him, but no matter: he's a truth teller. He was right to pronounce the death of multiculturalism as a political ideology. Right, too, that migrants are heading in our direction because Europe is perceived as being rich but weak. These are Europe's problems and it seems that they are no longer ours. If we can think of solutions, we tell ourselves, nobody is likely to listen. Yet however EU membership may chafe at the collar, its elites are at least beginning to conduct the big debates. We are living, says the think-tanker Mark Leonard, in an interregnum, the dangerous period between the end of an old order and the establishment of a new one. Worthy postwar institutions such as the EU, UN, even Nato, are looking frayed; the very idea of globalisation, despite its many merits, is being rejected on the streets and in parliaments. Leaving the EU was a recognition that we would never be able to reform it from within. But the next step cannot be reduced to the mechanics of getting a good exit deal. We need to start a proper conversation with ourselves about nationhood and community, about where we really stand in the world. And let's listen more carefully to what is being said across the Channel. We're not the only ones in the throes of an identity crisis.
Trump card is an economic and political game-changer for Europe
This was hardly the result that European leaders wanted, but while Donald Trump's victory in the US presidential election may have come as a shock, it won't have come as a surprise to a Continent already reeling from the outcome of the Brexit referendum. At a time when Europe is struggling to cope with a wave of crises, from migration to weak growth to instability on its southern and eastern borders to Brexit itself, its leaders would have preferred a US president unambiguously committed to the global, multilateral, rules-based system that the US put in place in the aftermath of the Second World War and to the institutions such as Nato, the International Monetary Fund and the World Trade Organisation that underpin it. Instead, they're confronted by president-elect Trump, who has questioned the lot. European policymakers will be on the lookout for economic shockwaves crossing the Atlantic that might undermine the eurozone's fragile recovery. Contrary to what many had predicted, the dollar strengthened on the day, while US Treasury yields rose, perhaps reflecting expectations that the Republican Party's clean sweep of the presidency and Congress will pave the way for a debt-funded infrastructure spending splurge that will push up inflation, leading the Federal Reserve to raise interest rates faster than has been expected. Such a reflation in America could be helpful to the European economy, particularly if US spending spills over into greater demand for European goods. What would be problematic for the eurozone is if European bond yields were pulled upwards on the back of rising US Treasuries, or if sentiment was to shift in coming days, causing the dollar to weaken against the euro. That would lead to a mechanical downgrading of eurozone growth and inflation forecasts, further complicating what is already a highly complex decision facing the European Central Bank as it debates how to boost its bond-buying programme when it is facing a scarcity of eligible bonds under its self-imposed rules. The ECB has given itself until early December to decide which of three politically toxic steps to take to boost the supply of eligible bonds: whether to buy bonds at prices that guarantee the ECB will take a loss; to increase the proportion of individual bond issues that it is willing to hold, turning it from a price-taker into a price-setter; or to abandon the so-called capital key that ensures government bond purchases are undertaken in strict proportion to each country's shareholding in the ECB. At the least, Mr Trump's win increases the pressure on the ECB to prove that it has the firepower to support the eurozone through a period of uncertainty and even a potential shock, if Mr Trump follows through on his hostile campaign rhetoric on trade, leading to a lowering of global growth expectations. Yet the ECB also knows that whichever taboo they choose to break is sure to further fan political passions in Germany, where opposition to loose monetary policies is running high.
Fine dining with a dash of punk — meet Spain's enfant terrible
David Muñoz, the only three Michelin-starred chef in Madrid, has just opened an extraordinary street food restaurant in Britain. It's tapas — but not as you know it Until five years ago, when his restaurant elBulli stopped serving customers, if you were asked to name Spain's most famous chef you would probably have said the molecular gastronomer Ferran Adrià. Since then, of the eight restaurants in Spain with three Michelin stars (twice as many as the UK), El Celler de Can Roca in Girona has made the biggest headlines, twice topping the annual list of the World's 50 Best Restaurants. Few people here, though, can name the three brothers who run it, let alone tell you what the food is like. Although we can't get enough of tapas, Spain's small-plate dishes, the biggest guns of its gastronomy seem to struggle to gain recognition here, even when they open places in our capital, such as Ametsa (Elena Arzak and her father Juan Mari's reincarnation of their San Sebastian restaurant in the Halkin Hotel in Belgravia) and Eneko (the eponymous chef Atxa's Basque place in the One Aldwych Hotel in Covent Garden). David Muñoz is hoping to change that with StreetXO, his madcap restaurant on Old Burlington Street in Mayfair, which opened this week. Putting aside the chef's culinary expertise — he runs DiverXO, the only three-starred restaurant in Madrid — the 36-year-old's appearance alone provokes a reaction. He sports a mohican, tribal piercings up his ears, and on the DiverXO website looks scarily reminiscent of Alex DeLarge from A Clockwork Orange.
Everything I'm doing is about making happy customers. I follow my own rules
Described as "punk rock meets fine dining", his London venture is equally theatrical. It's a facsimile of his street food concept, StreetXO in Madrid, where the music is loud, the flames from the robata grill seem to defy health-and-safety regulations and the cocktails include a violet-hued concoction of gin and jasmine that come in glasses so leviathan that they are virtually impossible to lift. Unsurprisingly, Muñoz has a reputation for being the enfant terrible of Spanish gastronomy. "You know why I'm called that?" he asks when I meet him before the London launch in the lobby of the hotel next to DiverXO in the quiet Madrid neighbourhood of Tetuán. "Because I am free and my own boss and everything I'm doing is about making happy customers. I follow my own rules."
The best family-run restaurants in the UK
Rachel Walker finds siblings, parents and couples make a winning combination You can't choose your family, so the saying goes. But you can choose whether you work with them day in, day out. It might sometimes seem as if Britain's high streets are lined with Pizza Expresses and Nando's, yet a huge 81% of all restaurants and hotels are still family run. It's indicative of an industry that has its roots in people's front rooms. From traditional coaching inns to trattorias and curry houses founded by first-generation immigrants, feeding the family has always had the potential to become a business by luring in passers-by. Nearly all the restaurateurs I spoke to emphasised how much work went on behind the scenes. While the best family-run restaurants still have a front-room feel, the reality is that most are underpinned by hard-nosed business nous. The Sethi siblings are an example of a modern family business that has quickly built a diverse restaurant portfolio. That's not to say the old-fashioned way doesn't work any more. At the Guardhouse Café, in Brixham, Lucy and Alex Foley treat their staff, and indeed anyone who wanders in, as an extension of their family. It's the warm welcome and familiarity that set these restaurants apart from slick chains. It's impossible to replicate the experience of sitting in a dining room where one sibling is waiting front of house while the other is heading up the kitchen, and the parents are at their regular table in the corner, bursting with pride.
Blanchette East, Brick Lane, London
LONDON AND THE SOUTHEAST Bringing the Party The Palomar, Soho, W1 This is the sister restaurant of Machneyuda, in Jerusalem, known for its modern Israeli dishes and party atmosphere. The Palomar was brought to London by siblings Zoë and Layo Paskin, whose backgrounds as club manager and DJ guaranteed that the good-time vibes travelled as well as the dishes. Go with a friend, grab a seat at the bar and enjoy the small plates and big flavours with a glass of Har'el syrah from the Judean Hills. thepalomar.co.uk Finger on the Pulse Gymkhana, Mayfair, W1 Karam Sethi saw overnight success with Gymkhana, famed for its gamey riffs on traditional Indian dishes such as wild muntjac biryani (£28). Soon after its launch, he founded JKS Restaurants with his brother Jyotin and sister Sunaina. Since then, everything they touch seems to turn to gold, as seen with their new Sri Lankan restaurant Hoppers and partnerships with Bao (steamed buns) and Bubbledogs (hotdogs and champagne). gymkhanalondon.com
Ham, egg and peas at Restaurant Sat Bains, Nottingham
The Groaning Table Honey & Co, King's Cross, W1 The shelves in this dreamy Middle Eastern kitchen heave with jars of preserves and the countertops are laden with cakes . It's run by Sarit Packer and her husband, Itamar Srulovich, who met while working in a kitchen in Tel Aviv and are famed for their home-style feasts. Breakfast can be ordered "for the table" (£16.50pp), as can dinner (£26.50pp). If you're left feeling inspired, then pop by their Honey & Spice deli just across the road. honeyandco.co.uk Spice of Life Moro, Clerkenwell, EC1 In spring 1997, Sam and Sam Clark got married, bought a campervan and set off on a culinary adventure through Spain, Morocco and the Sahara, which led to the launch of their Exmouth Market restaurant. Almost 20 years on, their dishes remain a source of inspiration for chefs and one of delight for diners, thanks to dashes of dukka and sumac, pomegranate and pistachios. Dessert is always a highlight, as is any sherry pairing. moro.co.uk Parisian Chic Blanchette East, Brick Lane, E1 A sibling to Blanchette Soho, a modern French bistro founded by brothers Maxime, Yannis and Malik Alary and named after their mother, Blanche. Alhough it's "small plate" tapas, the portions are generous. Start with the hot merguez sausage rolls and harissa mayonnaise (£5) and leave room for the blackcurrant financier (£6.25). It's a dainty dessert befitting the elegant, belle époque-inspired interior. blanchettebricklane.co.uk Local Hero The Manor, Clapham, SW4 Husband and wife team Robin and Sarah Gill have a knack for creating the ultimate neighbourhood joint, and this latest addition to their south London empire is no exception. The new breakfast menu sets the tone, with fried duck egg, crispy pig's cheeks, 'nduja and borlotti beans (£9). Faultless restaurant dishes in homely surroundings. themanorclapham.co.uk Belpassi Bros Tooting, London SW17 Three years ago, twin brothers Livio and Lorenzo Belpassi quit their jobs and embarked on a culinary tour of Italy to learn the art of hand-rolled meatballs. After being regulars on the street-food scene, the pair have now set up their first bricks-and-mortar site serving their trademark casual Italian in Tooting. Try the meat — or veggie — balls served on a bed of polenta or pasta, or an old-school meatball sandwich. belpassibros.com Gunpowder Spitalfields, London E1 Harnessing the excitement and jostle of India in this teeny restaurant, Gunpowder is known for its mouthwatering dishes, brought to London by founders Harneet Baweja and his wife, Devina. The menu is inspired by generations-old recipes from Harneet's native Calcutta. Expect fun and innovative Bengali dishes, from spicy venison and vermicelli doughnut (£4.50) to the rasam ke bomb (£2.50), a pani puri-like crisp shell and shot of spiced water. gunpowderlondon.com
Bonny and James Ritchie of Simpsons, Cheltenham
WEST AND SOUTHWEST Taste of Japan Edamamé, Oxford Unlike most canteen-style Japanese chains, Edamamé is a cosy place. It's situated on Holywell Street and run by husband and wife Peter and Mieko Galpin, who serve homely dishes, from breaded chicken katsu to miso ramen, and of course, bowls of edamame soy beans. Sushi is served on Thursday evenings only. There are often queues snaking down the street, so arrive early. edamame.co.uk Family Chippie Simpsons Fish & Chips, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire It's been a big few months for Simpsons, crowned fish and chip shop of the year 2016. It's no surprise the judges were won over by the crisp batter, soft, sweet cod and chunky chips (£9), as well as the sustainable sourcing and workshops that the owners, Bonny and James Ritchie, run for schoolchildren. The award coincided with the 40th year Bonny's mother had spent in the industry, showing that the flair for frying runs in the family. simpsonsfishandchips.co.uk
Fish and chips at Simpsons, Cheltenham
New Heights Casamia, Bristol When the head chef left Sue and Paco Sanchez's trattoria, their sons, Peter and Jonray, stepped in. They started replacing pizza and pasta with their own innovative dishes. The evening set menu (£98) changes each season and has propelled Casamia to Michelin status. Sadly, Jonray died last year, but Peter still runs Sanchez Brothers, with the empire now including a pizzeria nearby, Pi Shop, and soon, Paco Tapas. casamiarestaurant.co.uk Winning Siblings The Pony & Trap, Chew Magna, Bristol Ten years ago, Josh and Holly Eggleton restored a 200-year-old pub in the Chew Valley. Within five years the talented pair had scooped a Michelin star, followed soon after by chef of the year for Josh and front of house of the year for Holly. It's easy to see why: the choices here flit effortlessly between impressive tasting menus (£70) and unpretentious pub classics, with attentive service to match. theponyandtrap.co.uk Warm Welcome Guardhouse Café, Brixham, Devon Breathtaking views and a warm welcome from owners Alex and Lucy Foley make this a memorable pit stop for anyone exploring the Devon coastline. It's located in a clifftop nature reserve, so it's not unusual to spot porpoise, guillemots and cirl buntings while enjoying an excellent cup of coffee and wedge of homemade cake. guardhousecafe.com Big Fish Ben's Cornish Kitchen, Marazion, Cornwall "She's the glue that holds the whole thing together," says Ben Prior of his mother, Jayne, who helps run the restaurant, while he heads up the kitchen, often with his brother Toby. Family harmony is reflected in balanced and confident plates of food: the catch of the day served with jersey royals and asparagus is understated, but it's cooked to perfection and beautifully presented. benscornishkitchen.com The Carew Arms Antony, Cornwall The recently relaunched Carew Arms is a family affair, thanks to owner Tremayne Carew Pole bringing on board his sister-in-law Emily Watkins, best known for her appearance on Great British Menu. Working as a consultant, she takes a fresh approach to modern pub food, with particular emphasis on local ingredients. The yarg and Tribute rarebit starter (£4) is a must. carewarms.com
Ben Prior of Ben's Cornish Kitchen, Marazion, CornwallRUSSELL BROWN
EAST, MIDLANDS AND NORTH Home Baked Pump Street Bakery, Orford, Suffolk The baking skills of the father-daughter team Chris and Joanna Brennan have turned this 15th-century building into a mecca for anyone who loves a good crust, short pastry and fluffy pancakes. Be warned: it's very easy to pop in for a loaf and find yourself at the communal table an hour later with a bacon sandwich and prune sauce. pumpstreetbakery.com
Cream tea at Market Bistro, King's Lynn, Norfolk
Keeping it Close Market Bistro, King's Lynn, Norfolk The samphire is from the local salt marshes, the pork is from nearby Emneth and the sourdough is freshly baked every day at Market Bistro. There's a homely feel here, not only because of the wooden floor, beamed ceilings and farmhouse chairs, but also because of the hospitality extended by chef Richard Golding and his wife, Lucy. marketbistro.co.uk Fine Dining Restaurant Sat Bains, Nottingham It may be located next to a flyover and have pet rabbits lolloping round the courtyard, but this place, run by Bains and his wife, Amanda, is an exercise in not judging a book by its cover. The two Michelin-star standard is clear from the tasting menus (from £85): dishes include duck egg 62C, which bagged Bains 10/10 on Great British Menu. restaurantsatbains.com Brotherly Love Joseph Benjamin, Chester, Cheshire Brothers Joseph and Benjamin Wright's bistro is known for its small menu of European classics: mackerel rillettes, bavette steak and tantalising desserts. The success of their informal but elegant dining has led to the opening of Porta, a tapas and wine bar next door, with another site launching in Altrincham this month. josephbenjamin.co.uk Tight-knit Team 63 Degrees, Manchester This modern French restaurant gets its name from the temperature that chef Eric Moreau believes meat should be cooked at. The result is a tender chicken, served by Moreau's wife, Florence, or son Alexandre. A la carte prices reflect the sophisticated dishes, but the set lunch (£20 for three courses) and Tuesday-night tasting menu (£25 for five) are a steal. 63degrees.co.uk Twin Engine The Westwood, Beverley, East Yorkshire Matthew and Michele Barker make a formidable team at this converted Georgian courthouse. The twins were brought up in their parents' gastropubs, so it was no surprise when chef Matthew and front of house Michele went into the business. Service is slick, portions are big and the Sunday-lunch sirloin of local beef (£14) comes with all the trimmings, including IPA gravy and a huge yorkshire pudding. thewestwood.co.uk Celebrated Chef Rogan & Company, Cartmel, Cumbria Both this and L'Enclume, the acclaimed restaurant around the corner, are run by Simon Rogan and his partner, Penny Tapsell. But while world-class L'Enclume has prices to match (lunch menu, £130), Rogan & Company presents a more affordable option (three-course lunch, £24). It might look like a gastropub from the outside, but the dishes have Rogan's precision and sophistication. roganandcompany.co.uk
Rogan & Company, Cartmel, Cumbria
WALES, SCOTLAND, NORTHERN IRELAND Catalan Cuisine La Cuina, Cardiff It's rare to hear Catalan in Cardiff, but this family-owned restaurant and deli is an exception. Founder Montserrat Prat came to Britain as a Spanish teacher and set up La Cuina four years ago. The authentic ingredients have attracted a Catalan team and, in turn, crowds of hungry diners keen to try the beautiful dishes and impressive selection of Catalan wines. lacuina.co.uk Waste Not, Want Not The Gallery, Barry Glamorgan sausages come on a menu that also lists foraged nettle pesto and mugwort jelly, which helped scoop the chef-proprietor Barnaby Hibbert Welsh sustainable restaurant of the year three times in a row. His cooking is also great value (two-course lunch £16.50), while the Wednesday steak nights are particularly popular. If you go for the 26oz T-bone to share (£50), a doggy bag might be a good idea. the-gallery-restaurant.co.uk Proudly Scottish Cail Bruich, Glasgow It's the 10th anniversary of this restaurant, run by local brothers Paul and Chris Charalambous. Modern dishes on their tasting menu (£55 for seven courses) feature Scotland's best ingredients, such as mackerel ceviche, venison tartare and foraged sea buckthorn garnishes. The lightness of touch and sense of patriotism are also reflected in the drinks menu. cailbruich.co.uk Rural Bliss Braidwoods, Dalry, Ayrshire Only those in the know will spot the sign pointing down a farm track to this whitewashed cottage, where husband and wife Keith and Nicola Braidwood have been cooking up a storm since 1994. Scallops are plump and sweet, and loin of roe deer is beautifully tender. Great-value food (three-course lunch, £28) in understated surroundings. braidwoods.co.uk Crofter's Cottage Ninth Wave Restaurant, Isle of Mull It's nearing the end of the season for John and Carla Lamont, whose restaurant is on a remote croft. As always, it will reopen in spring, when the wild sorrel and borage start to appear and will be picked and used in dishes, along with John's daily catch and produce from Carla's kitchen garden. It's dinner only (£66 for five courses), served with a slice of the good life. ninthwaverestaurant.co.uk Offally Good Wine & Brine, Moira, Co Armagh Chef Chris McGowan and his wife, Davina, celebrate the renaissance of traditional Irish cooking with dishes inspired by local produce and the tradition of ageing, curing and pickling. The short menu showcases game and offal, pressed terrines and local draught beer, and lunch is good value (£14 for three courses). Don't shy away from the trifle, which is pure joy. wineandbrine.co.uk The Checkers Montgomery, Wales Chef Stéphane Borie heads up the kitchen in this modern French restaurant set in a 17th-century Welsh coaching inn, where he is joined by his partner, Sarah. (Her sister Kathryn runs a slick front-of-house.) The six-course tasting menu (£65) showcases classic cookery, from mousselines to veloutés and pithiviers, made using local fish and game, and served in a modern, elegant fashion. checkerswales.co.uk Bia Bistrot Edinburgh The word bia, meaning food in Gaelic, nods to chef Roisin Llorente's Irish heritage, while Bistrot references the French background of her husband, Matthias. The couple cook alongside each other at this bijou neighbourhood restaurant, creating home-style dishes such as slow-braised pork cheeks (£15) and caramelised rice pudding (£5). A great option for a chilly day, where the food is just as warming as the welcome. biabistrot.co.uk
Europe's 100 best hotels under £100 per night
France 1. Mama Shelter Paris A stone's throw from the final resting place of Jim Morrison and Frédéric Chopin at the Père-Lachaise cemetery, this cool design hotel is part of a small chain by Philippe Starck — hip and colourful. Chic rooms come with wi-fi and iMacs, plus there's a restaurant, a pizzeria and a relaxed rooftop bar with umbrellas and city views. Details: Room-only doubles are from £66 a night (00 33 825 00 62 62, mamashelter.com) 2. Hôtel Arvor Saint Georges Paris There's a refreshing mix of Parisian style, pop art and country retreat at this small hotel a minute's walk from the Saint-Georges metro station. Bright rooms have feature walls, a smattering of modern and retro furniture and interesting lithographs. You get goodies such as Jean-Paul Hévin chocolates and free wi-fi. Details: Room-only doubles are from £78 a night (00 33 1 48 78 60 92, hotelarvor.com) 3. Auberge de la Source Saint Ouen sur Morin, Seine-et-Marne A short drive from the beaches of the Seine estuary, this charming hotel-restaurant dates back to 1763 and was a favourite haunt of Montmartre artists. Rustic-chic rooms have stark white walls and some have period features such as fireplaces or beamed ceilings. The restaurant serves food with produce from the local market and there's a good champagne menu, thanks to its proximity to the sparkling wine region. Outside, there's a pool and a deck with sun loungers, all shaded by a huge chestnut tree. Details: B&B doubles are from £64 a night (00 331 60 24 80 61, sawdays.co.uk); Brittany Ferries (brittany-ferries.co.uk) has Portsmouth to Le Havre returns for a car and two passengers from £158. It's about a three-hour drive from Le Havre to the hotel 4. Hôtel Jeanne d'Arc Paris In the heart of Le Marais is this village-style hotel, a short stroll from Place Bastille and the Seine. The straightforward façade hides a charming, eccentrically designed place with warm-toned rooms, distressed furnishings and eclectic artwork. Details: Room-only doubles are from £73 a night (00 33 1 48 87 62 11, hoteljeannedarc.com) 5. La Cour de Rémi Bermicourt, Pas-de-Calais Visit this country estate and you'll never drive off the ferry from Dover and put your foot down again. Centred on a farmhouse built in the French restoration period, hotel rooms in converted stables have a rustic feel with exposed beams and bricks. There's also a glamping option in a treehouse with a patio. The food's pretty good, too — the owner Sébastien de la Borde was trained in French cuisine by Stephane Jego of L'Ami Jean in Paris. Details: Room-only doubles are from £63 a night (lacourderemi.com); DFDS Seaways (dfdsseaways.co.uk) has return voyages for a car and up to nine passengers from about £60. It's just over an hour's drive from Calais to the hotel 6. Villa fol Avril Moutiers-au-Perche, Orne A former 19th-century coaching inn midway between the D-Day landing beaches and the Loire Valley, Villa fol Avril is another bucolic French offering. Its 12 rooms are wonderfully light, and marry natural materials, such as lime-wood and terracotta, with period furnishings picked up at the many antique shops in La Perche. There's also a restaurant with a terrace overlooking the walled garden, and an open-air heated pool. Details: Room-only doubles are from £73 a night (00 33 2 33 83 22 67, villafolavril.fr); Brittany Ferries (brittany-ferries.co.uk) has Portsmouth to Le Havre returns for a car and two passengers from £158. It's a little over a two-hour drive from Le Havre to the hotel 7. Hotel-Restaurant La Grange du Relais Colombey-les-Deux-Eglises, Haute-Marne Surrounded by the vineyards of the Champagne region, this quirky hotel's rooms have rustic-chic styling and exposed brick walls. There's an on-site curio shop that's worth a good rummage and a homely restaurant with set menus from £9. The Cross of Lorraine museum and memorial dedicated to Charles de Gaulle, who lived in Colombey-les-Deux-Eglises, is a few minutes' walk away. Details: Room-only doubles are from £58 a night (00 33 25 02 03 89, lagrangedurelais.fr); Eurostar (eurostar.com) has returns to Troyes from about £180. From Troyes it's a one hour drive to the hotel 8. Le Château d'Etoges en Champagne Etoges, Marne You get a lot of bang for your buck at this affordable 15th-century château hotel that was a favourite haunt of Napoleon. There are period character rooms from cosy doubles in the attic to huge tower suites, plus more modern offerings in a converted orangerie. There's also a gourmet restaurant, vast parklands and even a moat. And if the price isn't cheap enough, you can score an extra 10 per cent off if you "like" their Facebook page. Details: Room-only doubles are from £69 a night (00 33 3 26 59 30 08, etoges.com); Eurostar (eurostar.com) has returns to Rheims from about £180. From Rheims it's a one-hour drive to the hotel 9. Château de Gramazie Mirepoix, Ariège From a 9th-century abbey to a 19th-century manor house, this Languedoc château had several uses before being turned into a country hotel. Unlike many of its ilk, though, its rustic stylings have been replaced by modern, monochrome rooms in the main house and a soon-to-open wing. Common areas have hints to the hotel's past, thanks to super-high painted ceilings, plus there's a smart restaurant and an orangerie bar. Details: B&B doubles are from £66 a night (00 33 4 68 31 15 21, chateaudegramazie.com); Ryanair has return flights to Carcassonne from about £40. It's about a half-hour drive from the airport to the hotel 10. Le Lion d'Or Cauterets, Hautes-Pyrénées Built in 1840 and operating as a guesthouse since 1919, this small, family-run hotel in the heart of the Pyrénées is worth its weight in gold. There's an air of a film set about its shabby-chic rooms. Old sleighs and snowshoes hang from the walls and in the front yard a rusty bike has flowerpots in its basket. There's also a bar and a patio garden. An on-site ski instructor offers slopeside advice, and thermal spas for post-piste relaxation are a short walk away. Details: Room-only doubles are from £56 (00 33 5 62 92 52 87, hotel-cauterets.fr); easyJet has return flights to Toulouse from about £60. It's about a two-hour drive to the hotel from the airport 11. Bois Joli Bagnoles-de-l'Orne, Orn Built in the mid-19th century as a retreat for those taking the waters in the spa town of Bagnoles-de-l'Orne, this hotel in an Anglo-Norman villa is on the edge of the Andaine forest and close to a large lake. Cosy, colourful rooms have either Regency or Norman decor but with mod-cons, such as flat-screen TVs and free wi-fi. Days can be spent foraging for mushrooms for dinner or boating on the lake, while the town's spa and casino from its heady days are still open. Details: Room-only doubles are from £59 a night (00 33 2 33 37 92 77, hotelboisjoli.com); Brittany Ferries (brittany-ferries.com) has Portsmouth to Caen returns for a car and two passengers from £158. It's a little over an hour's drive from the ferry to the hotel 12. Hôtel Continental Bordeaux Although it's housed in an 18th-century mansion, the rooms at this Bordeaux hotel err towards function over style. What you do get, though, is a fabulous location on a semi-pedestrianised street in the Grand Hommes district, meaning key sights such as the Customs Museum, the National Opera and the banks of the Garonne are all easily reached. Details: B&B doubles are from £65 a night (00 33 5 56 52 66 00, en.hotel-le-continental.com); easyJet has return flights from about £55 13. Hôtel Windsor Nice You could stay in this hotel for a good couple of weeks and not get bored — especially if you tried a different room each night. Most of them are styled by artists, making each unique. Choose from rooms with cartoons stencilled on the walls, to those with abstract art. There's also a pretty garden with bamboo, bougainvillea, fruit trees and a pool, as well as a spa and a restaurant. Details: Room-only doubles are from £60 a night (00 33 4 93 88 59 35, hotelwindsornice.com); easyJet has return flights to Nice from about £60 14. Hôtel Le Canberra Cannes It's almost impossible to find a decent hotel in Cannes for less than £100 a night but this is the closest you'll get — even if the price tag comes with a low-season caveat. Just off Rue d'Antibes and a couple of blocks from La Croisette, you're in the thick of the action in rooms with a nod to 1950s styling that stays on the right side of retro-cool. A highlight of the stay is the 24/7 bar-terrace, perfect for balmy evenings and pretending that you're in town for the film festival. Details: Room-only doubles are from £73 a night (00 33 4 97 06 95 00, hotel-cannes-canberra.com); easyJet has flights to Nice from about £60. It's about a 40-minute drive to Cannes from the airport at Nice 15. Hôtel Mare E Monti Corsica Inspired by the original owner's trip to Puerto Rico in 1870, this maison Americaine has been converted to a luxurious hotel where stays are a steal. From an elevated location outside an inland village that's 16km from the beach, it overlooks a national park and has an elegant pool deck of the kind where you'd expect to see celebs. There's a homely feel to the rooms, and some have period features, such as original fireplaces. Details: B&B doubles are from £98 a night (01202 703500, justcorsica.co.uk); Skyscanner.net has return flights to Corsica from about £85 Germany and Austria 16. Hotel Hüttenpalast Berlin This quirky hotel tops the lot. Housed in a former factory, it has an inside hall with caravans and wooden huts, and eclectic rooms. The hall is packed with reclaimed furniture and art made from found goods, plus there's a garden and a sauna. The café-restaurant hosts a number of left-field events. Details: Room-only doubles are from £55 (00 49 30 3730 5806, huettenpalast.de) 17. Nhow Berlin Overlooking the River Spree and in the trendy area between Friedrichshain and Kreuzberg, this cuboid hotel has pink rooms by New York designer Karim Rashid. All have iPod docks, underfloor heating and posh toiletries while communal areas include Wii consoles, a two-floor gym and a roof bar. Watch out for the open-mikenights. Details: Room-only doubles are from £67 a night (0870 80 71 235, nh-hotels.com) 18. Michelberger Hotel Berlin There's a touch of Fritz Lang's Metropolis about this hotel in a former factory. Its rooms have custom-made furniture, kooky mezzanine features and statement wallpapers. There's a quirky reception area with cement walls lined with cuckoo clocks, a massage studio, cinema screenings and arts events. Details: Room-only doubles are from £59 (00 49 302 977859, michelbergerhotel.com) 19. Fritzhotel Hamburg This small hotel is set back from the docks in the trendy Schanze area so you're a hop, skip and jump from cool restaurants, hip bars and arty boutiques. Rooms are bright and have dashes of colour. If you can, bag one with a balcony for views over Schanzen Park. Everything else is stripped back and there's no breakfast, but you do get free coffee, tea and juice. Details: Room-only doubles are from £69 a night (00 49 408 222283, fritz-im-pyjama.de); easyJet flies to Hamburg from £50 return. 20. Gastwerk Hotel Hamburg This chic hotel in a former gasworks, claims to be Hamburg's first boutique offering. Rooms have huge windows overlooking a central atrium or the city, and most have a loft feel with stylish furnishings and brick walls. There's a bar and a spa, while key sights such as the Reeperbahn are a short walk away. Details: Room-only doubles are from £69 a night (00 49 408 90620, gastwerk.com) 21. Hotel Concorde Frankfurt Opposite the main railway station and close to the Alte Oper concert hall, this hotel is well located and has rooms to match. Simply designed and with luxury touches such as headboards made from black ostrich leather, they have lights that you can change depending on your mood. The only downside is the slightly dreary breakfast room. Details: B&B doubles are from £42 a night (00 49 69242422, hotelconcorde.de); skyscanner.net has return flights from about £50 22. Nala Hotel Innsbruck, Austria Once a 1960s relic, this hotel has been transformed into a plush, urban escape, which opened with a fanfare in September. Its individually styled and themed rooms are designed to appeal to all sorts, reflected by rooms called Zen (relaxing), Small Beauty (hip) and Climb Up (with a mezzanine). The Cinema room has a massive screen and Snow White is influenced by the fairytale. The contemporary restaurant offers chalk-board specials and Italian-influenced dishes. Details: B&B doubles are from £72 a night (00 43 512 584444, nala-hotel.at); easyJet flies to Innsbruck from about £60 return 23. The Daniel Vienna, Austria Housed in a utilitarian Sixties building, the Daniel offers a fun place to stay in the heart of Vienna. Quirky touches abound: there's a sculpture of a boat by Erwin Wurm that seems to droop Dalí-style from a roof that is also home to beehives and an apple orchard, while there's an urban gardening project that provides tomatoes, cucumbers and herbs for use in the Bakery restaurant. Rooms have an urban chic feel while a "motor pool" hires out bikes and scooters. Details: B&B doubles are from £85 a night (hoteldaniel.com)
Cheap and chic in the Canaries
From a four-star beachside hotel in Tenerife to a mountain retreat in La Gomera, our selection of the best places for £100 or less Gran Canaria 1 Hotel Rural El Mondalon Tafira All is peaceful at this ten-room rural hotel close to the Caldera de Bandama volcanic crater and next door to the Mondalon winery. The 25-hectare farm blooms with olive and fruit trees; expect to see their bounty on the restaurant menu served in the converted barn or on the terrace. This is a great choice for families because there is a playground, children's menu and rooms that can accommodate an extra bed or cot. There's a large outdoor pool too, and four of the rooms have private terraces. Details B&B doubles are from £59 a night (00 34 928 355 758, hotelruralmondalon.es) 2 La Hacienda del Buen Suceso near Arucas Nestled at the heart of a 50-acre banana farm, this cool rural hotel started life as a palatial plantation owner's house on the Canary Islands' oldest estate. The hotel retains its old charm — wood-beamed ceilings and exposed brickwork — alongside chic furnishings. Dinner is served in the old stables, while there's also a small pool and a veranda. Details B&B doubles cost from £100 a night (0117 946 7072, i-escape.com)
The rooms are hip at Bed&Chic
3 Bed&Chic Las Palmas Settle into a beanbag on the roof terrace, cocktail in hand, and you're sure to agree that this boutique base in Las Palmas lives up to its name. Rooms are hip, with quirky cushions and crisp linens, but it's worth spending a little extra to avoid the standard rooms, which overlook the street and can be noisy. It's a short walk to Las Canteras beach and breakfast is available at the restaurant downstairs. Details Doubles are available from £55 a night, superior doubles from £59, room only (00 34 928 904 289, bedandchic.com) 4 Maipez Hotel near La Calzada The bustling city of Las Palmas is a 15-minute drive from Maipez, but you'd never know it. This is a place to escape to, where you can sleep surrounded by whitewashed stone walls and lush gardens. The ten rooms are simply furnished farmhouse-style, one has a terrace and two are suites with slightly more space. There's a lovely outdoor pool on the lawn and the hotel can book you a court at the large tennis centre next door. There are a few restaurants close by, but you will need a car. Details B&B doubles cost from £68 a night (00 34 928 287 272, maipez.com)
Three Canadians held for smuggling cocaine on luxury cruise
Two young Canadian women and an older man enjoyed a luxury cruise, documenting their visits to pristine beaches in French Polynesia and Bermuda, before berthing in Sydney where authorities found more than $23 million of cocaine in their luggage. The drug bust was the largest ever recorded in Australia aboard a cruise ship. The trio travelled to North America, including a stop in New York, before touring the Caribbean and parts of South America, including Colombia, Chile, Ecuador and Peru, aboard the $15,000-a-head MS Sea Princess. One of the women — Melina Roberge, 22, — shared pictures drinking from coconuts and posing in front of turquoise waters in her bikini. She was travelling with Isabelle Legacé, 28. Andre Taminé, 63, was also on the cruise.
A suitcase filled with cocaine which was seized on board the MS Sea Princess in Sydney. The find is the biggest drugs haul from a cruise ship in Australian historyAUSTRALIAN BORDER FORCE VIA AP
"Monday mood," Ms Roberge wrote beneath a picture of her feet in crystal-clear waters four weeks ago. A day earlier, at Manta, Ecuador, she posted a picture of herself above cliffs by the ocean. She wrote: "In my top five for sure." She got tattooed in French Polynesia and rode a quad bike in Peru, but the holiday of a lifetime could be her last. The trio's dream cruise ended in Sydney on Sunday night — the last stop on the voyage — when Australian police and border control officers raided the ship and found 95 kilograms of cocaine in their luggage. The Australian authorities had been exchanging information with the Canadian Border Service Agency and the US Department of Homeland Security. The two women were travelling together and left a detailed record of their journey on social media. Australian investigators have not determined if all three alleged smugglers were working together. The three suspects were identified by the Australian Border Force as "high-risk travellers". All three are originally from Quebec. Australia has a reputation for having higher local prices for cocaine and the authorities estimated that the value of the drugs they discovered was more than $23 million, a record seizure from a cruise ship in the country. "The maximum sentence for this charge is life in prison," the border force said in a press release, which made reference to an international drug syndicate that is still subject to investigation and could lead to other arrests. Beneath a post on Ms Roberge's Instagram account on August 27, after news of her arrest, followers mocked her. "Currently travelling to prison," one wrote. "Nap with one eye open in prison," another posted. Investigators are trying to determine through which port the drugs were brought onto the ship. The three travellers boarded the ship in England in early July, but the cruise later travelled to several ports in North America, the Caribbean and South America — notably Colombia and Peru, two countries known for cocaine production. In 2014 a UN report said that Australia had the highest proportion of recreational drug users in the world , leading Dr Alex Wodak, president of the Australian Drug Law Reform Foundation, to say that Australia's appetite for illicit drugs was fuelled by both a cashed-up and unfettered new generation and an economically disadvantaged underclass.
Compass Group has a big appetite for North America
Buy, sell or hold: today's best share tips There comes a time when size and market share count. Compass Group is now so big in North America, which delivered 56 per cent of revenues at the halfway stage, that it can tailor its catering offering to individual sectors and even subsectors. This means that it can offer a targeted service to schools, universities or whatever, while gaining the efficiencies available from shared IT systems and back office functions. Fresh work picked up, such as at the New Las Vegas Arena and Oracle Arena, drove an 8.3 per cent rise in North American revenues in the half-year to March 31, comfortably exceeding City expectations and lifting group revenues 5.8 per cent to £9.7 billion. Yet the story at Compass most recently has been the downturn in its offshore and remote division and in Brazil, contract wins there being offset by general economic gloom. Plainly, there is less being dug out of the ground in western Australia and less oil being produced elsewhere, so there is a reduced need for catering facilities in such locations. Last July Compass said it was restructuring that commodities business and some emerging markets, which would hit profits in the last financial year and this. There was no growth in its rest-of-the-world business in the second quarter. Against this, a positive was the recovery in Europe. A couple of years ago Compass decided to pull out of contracts where growth was stalling as workers were either laid off or were economising on food. The rebound in Spain and Portugal has been notable. Compass should be able to grow organically by more than 5 per cent this year, even if margins remain flat, held back by those underperforming areas. There is, practically, not much further these can go from the 7.5 per cent seen at present. Growth will come from acquisitions, but the company remains cautious. Any money not spent on these will go back to investors: £144 million was spent on deals and £72 million on share buybacks in the first half. The shares, down 11p at £12.51, have been strong performers and sell on 21 times' earnings. This is about par for the shares historically and sounds high, but I would be inclined to take a long-term view. Revenue £9.7bn Dividend yield 2.5% Profit before tax£677m Half-way organic revenue growth 5.8% MY ADVICE Buy WHY Though margins may have flattened, there is the potential from acquisitions, while restructuring benefits are not yet through Experian When you have a fifth of your business in Brazil, a country whose economy and political system are under severe strain, you have a problem. The depreciation of the real against the dollar, in which Experian reports, means that a respectable 5 per cent rise in revenues at constant exchange rates in the year to March 31 translates into a 4 per cent fall on a reported basis. To put it another way, currency movements clipped $137 million off earnings before interest and tax, which came in at $1.195 billion. It is an ill wind, though. The rise in credit defaults in Brazil helped the world's biggest provider of credit checks, a boost that the company describes as "countercyclical revenues". Organic revenue growth in Latin America, mainly Brazil, was up by 7 per cent, ahead of currency effects. The United States was more mixed, with organic revenues 3 per cent better. People are borrowing there and Experian is expanding into new markets, so credit services is doing well. Changes to marketing services are taking effect, while consumer services, which allows the public to check their credit rating, is also being repositioned, though the $360 million purchase of CSID, an identity protection business and Experian's biggest deal for years, will provide a boost when it completes. The main support for the shares is the continuing buyback programme, another $400 million in the current financial year, as Experian uses its strong cash conversion. The shares sell on 20 times' earnings, which does not suggest a lot to go for. Revenue $4.55bn Dividend yield2.2% Profit before tax$1.02bn MY ADVICE Avoid WHY Buybacks will support shares, but rating looks high JRP Group JRP Group is the anonymous acronym behind the merger between Just Retirement and Partnership Assurance, which was completed after the end of the third quarter to March 31. Roll the two together before that and it was a quiet quarter, with new business sales down by 4 per cent while the Partnership side failed to acquire a single piece of new defined-benefit pension business. This is not terribly surprising because there was a rush by corporates to offload their schemes before the end of the calendar year and a perceived rise in the cost of disposing of such schemes in advance of the new Insolvency II requirements. Such business is seen as the main rationale behind the merger of the two. JRP shares, off a penny at 137p, are sitting at about 70 per cent of the expected embedded value, the main metric for such businesses. This is odd and, as one analyst pointed out, suggests that the company will struggle to acquire any new business and is in run-off, which is nonsense. The £40 million of cost savings will kick in by next year, too. I would rate the shares a speculative "buy" on that basis. Forecast profit before tax £126m Dividend yield 2.5% MY ADVICE Buy WHY The market seems to be underestimating potential And finally... The trading update from Melrose Industries is brief, to the point and more interesting for what it does not say. The company buys and improves engineering businesses and then sells them on and returns capital to investors. There is now only one left, Brush, which makes turbogenerators and is performing "satisfactorily" in difficult markets. Melrose says merely that it is still seeking that next acquisition; this rather implies that there is nothing imminent, although the company has surprised the market before. Follow me on Twitter for updates @MartinWaller10
How to travel 7,000 miles on no money
James Levelle got from Brazil to Panama without cash. It was mad, he says, but let him see the best of people Two things strike me about James Levelle. One, he's a nice bloke and seems quite normal. However, he is mad. The second is that he likes a challenge. I know this because in the hour I spend with him he says the word 17 times. That's a lot of challenges. I can go years without saying "challenge", certainly with reference to anything I might do myself. Being challenged sounds tiring — it sounds like it could involve being cold and wet — but Levelle? He's more "bring it on", which is how he came to sign up for a TV documentary in which he had to film himself and another madman — sorry, fellow adventurer — getting from one side of South America to the other with no money.
Video: Getting across South America for nothing in Free Ride
In 72 days, he and Rob Greenfield, an almost complete stranger, together travelled 7,000 miles across seven countries, from Brazil to Panama, with no wallet, no cash, no credit card, no access at any point to any of the above and no mobile phone in case they might be tempted. Transport, food, water and shelter all had to be found for nothing. Which is indeed, it seems fair to say, quite a challenge. "It seemed like an absolutely bonkers, mad, crazy and arguably impossible idea," he says cheerfully, sitting in a TV production office in Soho. "I felt compelled to give it a go." Levelle, 35, has carved himself a career as an extreme film-maker. This translates roughly as him going to the coldest, hottest, nastiest and most difficult places on Earth and making documentaries about them. Free Ride was the first in which the producers insisted he also had to be in front of the camera, an experience he describes as challenging. He's used to roughing it. He has spent winters in Siberia and summers in Sierra Leone. He has filmed gold miners in northern Canada and loggers in the Arctic. Yet the theme linking them all was money.
In Rio de Janeiro with his partner for the trip, Rob GreenfieldINTERNATIONAL NETWORKS
"Crossing an entire continent without access to funds at all was extremely intimidating," he admits. "I've always had access to funds eventually. I might be going through some part of Africa and completely run out of cash, but I'd know that in 100 miles or so there'd be a village with a bank machine. For this trip we had a ceremonial dumping of wallets at the airport. That was quite a moment." The premise of the programme was simple: are people kind? Would they offer shelter or slam the door? Would the two men be greeted by compassion or indifference? In a nutshell, is the human race basically nice? "I honestly didn't know if we'd succeed," says Levelle. "Rob was confident, but it was an incredibly difficult thing to do in a short amount of time and I had to film the whole thing as well. I don't think I've ever felt such pressure in my life."
It seemed like a bonkers, crazy and arguably impossible idea
Levelle was brought up in London. His father directed commercials and his mother is an alternative health practitioner. He graduated with a degree in English from Edinburgh University and had no idea what he wanted to do, as long as it was not, under any circumstances, a desk job. Having realised that he could earn a living going on adventures around the world if he filmed them, he taught himself the nuts and bolts of dealing with a camera and cut his teeth working for a London-based NGO. Free Ride was a whole other scenario, not least because he had only met Greenfield once, when he flew to San Diego to do a chemistry test.
Levelle and Greenfield had met only once before they embarked on the trekINTERNATIONAL NETWORKS
Greenfield is an environmental campaigner and adventurer who lives off-grid in San Diego, forages for food in skips and travels the world on his own, drawing attention to food waste and climate change. "If you're joined at the hip with someone else for 72 days," says Levelle, "I reckon they could be your very best friend and you'd still fall out." They duly did. In Cuzco, Peru, Greenfield's desire for solitary wandering, coupled with Levelle's desire for company and structure, resulted in a huge argument and the pair split up for ten days. "Rob had had enough," Levelle says. "He's used to flying solo and floating along and seeing what happens, whereas I have a much more proactive approach: 'Let's go there! Let's do that!' I think he got fed up with my suggesting stuff, and started to feel like I was taking over the adventure, but splitting up was a massive shock for me. I was like: 'I now have to do this utterly on my own.' " Which for ten days, he did before the pair reunited on the Ecuadorean border. So how did he find being on his own in the middle of Peru with no money and a programme to film? "Awesome. Rob had done similar stuff before, but I never had. I didn't get lonely because when you're travelling without money, without the power to solve things by throwing money at them, you completely depend on other people. That's one of the things I struggled with, in that I like feeling self-sufficient. Money gives you options, but terrifying reality becomes normal very quickly."
The kindness we received in South America was overwhelming
Not having money, on the other hand, is not just inconvenient but exhausting. Levelle was forced to interact with people and to persuade them to help him. Every time he approached someone, however tired or weary or fed-up he felt, he had to do what he calls the performance: explain to people what he was doing and why, be upbeat, be cheerful and enthusiastic. It doesn't work, he points out, if you go up to people and mumble: "'I feel s***. Please will you help me?' You have to go: 'Right! Hello! This is me!' It's absolutely exhausting." The remarkable thing is that people did indeed help. Levelle found that if he was honest and enthusiastic, people melted quickly, and the human instinct to help took over from mistrust. He describes as bonkers the kindness and generosity that they met across the continent, but that's South America. It couldn't happen here, could it? He couldn't get around Britain with no money, relying on the kindness of strangers, could he? Curious, he tried to do just that, albeit on a much smaller scale than his South American jaunt. The answer? Yes he can. "What I found was that once you'd explained that you were trying to get around without money, people would go, 'That's brilliant!' and if they could help, they did." The first step of his attempt to get from Folkestone to London nearly failed at the start when a bus driver was unmoved by his plight. Then the people on the bus got wind of what was going on and all rallied round to pay his fare.
The pair split up for ten days after an argument in PeruINTERNATIONAL NETWORKS
"The interesting thing here in the UK, compared to South America, is that over there a lot of the kindness would be in the form of 'take this food or these vegetables that I can't sell'. They'd say: 'I'm heading in this direction, hop in', or 'We have a spare bed, come on in'. Here, because of the value system that everyone understands, the only thing they felt able to do to help was give money." Thanks to the kindness of strangers, he completed his journey, by bus, car, train and on foot, in just under eight hours. Money, he concluded, is what you need if you're in a rush. If you're not, you don't need it. "The great British public are awesome. The kindness we received in South America was overwhelming, but to find that spirit of kindness and generosity here in my home country was just brilliant. It's contagious. You should see it in action. The barrier goes down, their eyes brighten and they smile and say: 'That sounds amazing. How can I help?' I do believe that spirit is in everyone." The main thing he missed, however, wasn't money, or knowing where his next meal or bed was coming from, but the ability to buy a beer for some of those who helped him as a thank you. Now he's back home on his canal boat moored on the river Lea in east London and turning down jobs that will take him away for months at a time because he wants a better work/life balance. More to the point, he wants to meet a girl and start a family and it seems reasonable to suppose that he's more likely to do that here than penniless and alone in the middle of Peru. Would that mean an end to the adventuring? "Hell, no. My parents ask, 'Are you around next week for dinner?' and I'll say, 'I'd love to, but I'm in Siberia'. They think it's hilarious. Life's an adventure. I don't want to get serious and stop mucking about." The future Mrs Levelle had better be up for a challenge. Free Ride is at 8pm on Wednesdays on Discovery Channel
VW 'aided torture' of workers in Brazil
THE beleaguered German car maker Volkswagen faces a lawsuit in Brazil claiming company officials were complicit in the torture of workers at its plant there during the country's military dictatorship. A group of 12 workers including trades unionists and left-wing activists say they were arrested and tortured based on information given by Volkswagen do Brasil to the secret police. The lawsuit also alleges that other workers at the Sao Bernardo do Campo factory near Sao Paulo were put under surveillance, sacked and blacklisted to prevent them from working for other companies. They are seeking "collective reparations" against the German company rather than individual settlements, claiming the firm collaborated with the military regime that ran the country from 1964 to 1985. The case, which follows the publication of a report last December by Brazil's national truth commission into repression, torture and state murder, is another embarrassment for the car maker. It is already reeling over its admission last month that it rigged the results of US emissions tests on its cars. "The documents we have against Volkswagen are devastating in the sense that they allowed a police state inside the company or arrests at people's workplaces," said Sebastiao Neto, an official of the Workers' Forum for Truth, Justice and Activism, which is backing the lawsuit. The report accused more than 80 foreign companies of collaborating with the secret police — among them Mercedes, Rolls-Royce, General Motors and Kodak. It said information was supplied about 460 people, mainly union organisers, who were put under surveillance and in many cases arrested and tortured: the largest number, 73, allegedly came from VW. Mercedes followed with 57. "Volkswagen was not the only company involved, but it had an intelligence role in Sao Paulo and even co-ordinated other companies," said Neto. Lucio Bellentani, 71, a former union organiser and one of those suing VW's Brazilian arm, worked as a toolmaker at the plant from 1964 until June 1972, when he was arrested by secret police who, he claims, were supervised by senior security officials from the company. "I was at work when two people with machineguns came up to me," Bellentani told the truth commission. "They held my arms behind my back and immediately put me in handcuffs. As soon as we arrived in Volkswagen's security centre the torture began. I was beaten, punched and slapped." Bellentani said he was then taken to prison, detained for 47 days and tortured with electric shocks. He was eventually sentenced to two years in prison and released in 1975. The report found 434 people had disappeared during the military rule, thousands were imprisoned and more than 6,000 people were tortured — among them Dilma Rousseff, the current president. Rousseff was in tears when she presented its findings. Few people associated with the dictatorship that reached its apex under President Emilio Medici, who ruled Brazil from 1969 until 1974, have been punished. A law passed in 1979 by the military regime granted amnesty for political crimes to those who had served in the government or armed forces. Rogerio Vargas, manager of legal affairs for Volkswagen Brazil, insisted the company "did not collaborate with organisations of repression", adding: "There is no document in any archive that has been uncovered that places the institution of Volkswagen [do Brasil] in collaboration with any violation of human rights." The car maker has promised to investigate "any eventual participation of company officials in providing information to the military regime". Manfred Grieger, Volkswagen's in-house historian, travelled from Germany to Brazil last week to look into the claims and meet some of the plaintiffs. "The question of concrete responsibility should be answered," he said. "Volkswagen is, up to now, the only company which has been in touch with victims of the dictatorship." Mercedes-Benz said it "does not confirm" giving information to the Brazilian secret police. Toyota said it could find no records of abuse. Volkswagen do Brasil began operating in March 1953 with 12 employees assembling its Beetle cars and VW minibuses in what was then a small warehouse in Sao Paulo. It has since produced more than 20m cars in Brazil, which is now its second biggest market after China.
Depictions of summer, chosen by Evelyn Glennie
Summers for me used to be work, work, work. It was only last year that I took my first two-week summer holiday. My partner and I hired a tiny camper van and headed up the west coast of Scotland, then down the east coast, through the Yorkshire moors, the Derbyshire dales and then home to Cambridgeshire. We were overwhelmed by the scenery, and I felt very proud that we in the UK have got such a stunning landscape on our doorsteps. I grew up on a farm and there were only two or three times when we had a summer holiday — to Orkney, because my mother's family is Orcadian. Otherwise, summer was a chance to get out of the house and run around, to go to friends on neighbouring farms, to stay up late and be outside — our parents never worried about where we were or what we were doing, because all the farmers and their families looked after each other. Early in my career, summer festivals were crucial for me, to build up my repertoire, and to get people used to seeing solo percussion concerts. But I don't mix work and play very well. I've been to so many places over the years and haven't appreciated them all — because if I have a choice to spend four hours in a hall practising before a concert or spending two of those hours having a look around, I'd probably spend the four hours in the hall. Evelyn Glennie plays at the Cheltenham Music Festival (01242 850270) on July 7 Evelyn Dunbar, A Land Girl and the Bail Bull, pictured above It's really not too far removed from my upbringing — the close relationship that this girl has with the livestock is how it was at home when I was growing up. The cows were so docile you could always just go up to them and stroke them. And in the summer you'd always have the livestock outside.
Gray Malin, À la Plage seriesGRAY MALIN
Gray Malin, À la Plage series He sees things from a totally different angle. So many of his photographs are like musical notation, you could almost play them! In this image of Bondi Beach we're looking down, seeing all the sun umbrellas. Things that were random become pieces of art, and it's joyful and uplifting.
Henry Moore, Large Reclining FigureDAN PRINCE/HENRY MOORE FOUNDATION
Henry Moore, Large Reclining Figure Our summers in Britain are so varied. With this sculpture and with a lot of Moore's work you can see the weather from so many angles as you walk around, and there's always space in and around them to look. You're usually looking up at them; when we are so used to looking down at our phones or computers, sometimes we miss what's going on up there.
The serenity of Japanese gardens delights Evelyn GlennieALAMY
Thea Musgrave, Summer, from Journey through a Japanese Landscape Thea wrote this for me in 1994. The whole work represents all four seasons, and the emotional journey through them. I've been to Japan many times; in the middle of a non-stop city you can go into a temple or a Japanese garden and you just feel like you're on another planet. That serenity definitely comes through in Thea's piece.
Frederick Delius's inspirations for A Song of Summer included clear skies, cliffs and seabirdsALAMY
Frederick Delius, A Song of Summer Delius wrote that he'd been inspired by the clear sky, cliffs and seabirds. The music does have that "rise and fall" feel, there's light and air to it and that's why it relates to summer. It's a piece that you appreciate more if you hear it during the day rather than in a concert hall in the evening.
Anthony Green, Summer Landscape, Autumn LoversANTHONY GREEN/CHRIS BEETLES GALLERY
Anthony Green, Summer Landscape, Autumn Lovers I'm enthralled by Green's work; he uses very odd shapes and odd angles, and things are slightly out of proportion. Playing a piece of music, I can relate to that sort of dynamic. It's like when you try something different with a piece of music you have played 100 times, and it's amazing how that changes your perspective.
The top ten holiday hideaway hotspots
Despite the rise in stamp duty, these locations are still luring families The summer holidays are almost here — the high point of the year for most children (and teachers). For some it means packing the car to the gunwales and heading to the family's second home. So where are the most popular locations for families to buy holiday homes in England? Research by Countrywide pinpoints these places by establishing where the greatest proportion of family homes were sold in the past 12 months to holiday-home and second-home buyers (family homes are defined as flats or houses with two bedrooms or more). Below we list the top ten. At first glance there is an absence of some of the most celebrated locations — the Cotswolds, for example, is not on the list. Scarborough and Pendle, where the average second-home prices are £165,537 and £76,367 respectively, are the top two locations on the list. This suggests that the recent change to stamp duty on second homes — all second-home purchases above £40,000 are subject to a 3 per cent levy — is restricting the amount that holiday-home buyers are willing to pay. Johnny Morris, the director of research at Countrywide, believes that recent events could mean more people buying holiday homes in the UK. "The recent weakness of sterling against the euro could encourage people to buy British rather than face reduced purchasing power on the Continent," he says. SCARBOROUGH, NORTH YORKSHIRE Average second-home price £165,537 Average property price £217,609 The district of Scarborough, in North Yorkshire, is the area of England where most second homes are bought. Figures by Hamptons International show that 18.3 per cent of sales in the past year went to second-home purchasers. Popular second-home destinations include the fishing villages and towns around Scarborough and along the east coastline, taking in Whitby, Runswick Bay and Robin Hood's Bay. A typical two or three-bedroom stone cottage in these areas costs from £200,000 to £500,000, according to Ed Stoyle, of Carter Jonas estate agency. PENDLE, LANCASHIRE Average second-home price £78,367 Average property price £92,302 Holiday homes here are driven by buyers from the northwest — 80 per cent of second-home owners are from Manchester or Liverpool, according to Countrywide. This is hiking paradise, with dramatic weather; Pendle sits on the edge of the Forest of Bowland and for many the chance to buy a relatively affordable holiday home in an area of outstanding natural beauty is key. The most sought-after areas are Roughlee, Barley, Blacko and Newchurch, according to Anne Clarke, of Broden Lloyd estate agency. In these areas an average two-bedroom cottage or apartment costs between £175,000 and £200,000; a four-bedroom house is £350,000 to £450,000.
A four-bedroom house overlooking Dartmouth, in Devon's South Hams, is £1.285 million with Knight Frank
SOUTH HAMS, DEVON Average second-home price £219,857 Average property price £243,934 South Hams is popular with families based in London and in the south who wish to retreat to a home close to the rugged coastline. Anywhere near to water is popular; Dartmouth (a two-bedroom cottage costs about £350,000) and Bantham (£300,000) command a premium and are particularly desirable to people who like to spend their spare time aboard a yacht. Christopher Bailey, a partner at Knight Frank estate agency, also recommends Thurlestone. "There is an excellent beach, great surf conditions, good sailing at Bantham and Salcombe and first-rate golfing. Prices start at £275,000 for a two-bedroom cottage." Kingswear in Devon is slightly cheaper and is worth a look — the village overlooks the River Dart and is a short ferry ride from Dartmouth. WEST NORFOLK AND KING'S LYNN, NORFOLK Average second-home price£278,590 Average property price £201,706 The west Norfolk town of King's Lynn and the coastal village of Hunstanton are popular. Properties in Hunstanton have increased by 8 per cent in value over the past year, according to the Humberts, in Norwich. The smaller inland villages of Castle Acre, with its Norman castle and, farther to the north, Melton Constable are less than half an hour to the sea and offer good value. The majority of holiday-home buyers come from London and Cambridge. SOUTH LAKELAND, CUMBRIA Average second-home price£176,240 Average property price £230,247 Pricing in this region of Cumbria is all about the view. Those with a smaller budget of, say, £200,000 to £250,000 will buy in Kendal (good shops, no spectacular views). Those with bigger budgets — £350,000 or more — will often buy in Windermere, with its views of lakes and mountains. The majority of holiday-home owners are from the north — notably Manchester, Liverpool and Blackburn. "The market is still strong despite the UK property market as a whole not being at its strongest," says Andrew Holmes, a senior partner at Thomson Hayton Winkley estate agency. "Most buyers look at the Lakes with a 20 to 30-year plan of retiring here."
A five-bedroom house in Penjerrick, near the south coast of Cornwall, is for sale at £725,000 through Lillicrap Chilcott
CORNWALL Average second-home price £241,035 Average property price £219,092 One Cornwall holiday home with famous owners — Gordon and Tana Ramsay — has been in the news. Their plans to knock down a 1920s Arts and Crafts property in the village of Rock, which they bought for £4.4 million, and replace it with a five-bedroom house (with two kitchens) and a three-bedroom garden house has angered their neighbours. Rock is exactly the type of Cornish location that is second-home heaven: a village close to the sea. Other popular locations include Polperro, a fishing village on the south Cornish coast, St Ives and St Mawes, and the surrounding Roseland Peninsula. Truro, with its cafés, shops, good pubs and restaurants, is a hit with older children. Duncan Ley, a director of Humberts, in Truro, says that would-be holiday-home owners usually have budgets of between £500,000 and £800,000. They aim to rent out their properties for a few weeks over the summer (it is possible to achieve as much as £3,000 a week in the high season). He reports demand for second homes is up by 5 per cent on 2015. WEYMOUTH AND PORTLAND, DORSET Average second-home price £270,564 Average property price £222,527 The most affordable location on the coast to buy, according to the online estate agency eMoov, is the district of Weymouth and Portland. Weymouth, an archetypal seaside town with a Georgian seafront, from where you can get a direct train to London Waterloo in three hours, is not as glitzy as Poole and Sandbanks along the coast, so properties with sea views are a lot cheaper. The average price of a flat in Weymouth, according to figures by Savills, is £169,780; for a house it is £249,775. NORTH NORFOLK Average second-home price£259,413 Average property price £243,874 Paul Flint, of Bedfords estate agency, says there has been a 20 per cent increase in the number of people looking to buy family holiday homes on the north Norfolk coast in villages such as Blakeney and Wells-next-the-Sea, which has recently been voted as having the best beach of the year. Other desirable villages include Burnham Market, Holme-next-the-Sea and Thornham. In Burnham Market you can buy a two-bedroom property for about £400,000. Tim Hayward, a director of Jackson-Stops & Staff in Burnham Market, reports that he recently accepted offers on a range of barn conversions on Holkham Estate costing from £950,000 to £1.4 million — every one went under offer to a second-home owner from London. WEST DEVON Average second-home price£371,348 Average property price £202,813 Younger families are choosing more rural settings around Dartmoor National Park, says James Baker, the head of Strutt & Parker in Exeter. His second-home buyers want properties they can rent, so they buy in areas with a strong holiday market. The town of Chagford, where the Chagstock music festival is hosted each summer, is perhaps the most popular. Here you get a two-bedroom house for £400,000, according to Knight Frank, or a two-bedroom apartment for £275,000 in the centre of town. CO DURHAM Average second-home price£102,917 Average property price £142,923 The most sought-after locations are along the North Yorkshire and Northumberland border. Barnard Castle, where £200,000 buys a two-bedroom cottage, is a picturesque historic town with access to the north Pennines. Other interesting locations include Wolsingham and, deeper into the Pennines, Middleton-in-Teesdale, a pretty market town. The second-home market has slowed since the stamp-duty rise, says William Thornton, an associate of the Darlington office for Savills. In his experience, £200,000 to £300,000 buys a two or three-bedroom house — the farther you go into the north Pennines, where life is more rural and remote, the more you get for your money. His second-home buyers, mainly from the south, are looking for greater affordability than they can find in Yorkshire and Northumberland. All house price averages have been produced by Countrywide Additional reporting by James North
The inflatable tent taking the stress out of camping
Duncan Craig has his sanity saved by a tent that lulls his baby to sleep Camping has always come with its charming little traditions. There's the erection squabble that quickly morphs into an urge to bludgeon your nearest and dearest with a tent pole. The marinating in your own sweat in your sleeping bag the moment the horizon starts to brighten. And, of course, the dawning realisation that dawn actually comes far, far earlier than you ever thought possible. But what if there was a tent that addressed all these issues, and came in a fetching shade of green? There is. It's called the Coleman FastPitch Air Valdes. This spacious four-person bundle of pragmatism is not only inflatable (well, the three primary supports at least), it has twin blackout bedrooms. In camping-and-caravanning-show vernacular, we're talking a layer of black polyurethane on the underside of the flysheet, combined with breathable black-fabric inners. In layman's terms? Ninety-nine per cent of external light shut out — and no more sweating like a jockey trying to make weight. We'd be sleeping like a baby, it sounded like. But would the baby? Ah yes, the sting in our tale. Our 10-month-old, Penny — she of car-alarm-decibel wail and a zero record of sleeping through — would be joining us. Could the Coleman deliver? Our sanity depended on it. We arrived at the campsite feeling apprehensive. Tentative, if you like a pun. It was a fabulous cliff-edge spot. But it was also busy. Post-Brexit-staycation busy. Like a lion's, our baby's roar can be heard several miles away. Here, there were 60 or so campers and caravanners within 100 square yards. Gulp. My wife and I managed a token argument about who was going to operate the hand pump and who was on less sexy pegging detail, but our hearts weren't in it. Within 10 cordial minutes, our canvas holiday home stood before us. We set up the travel cot in one of the rooms (the nursery, as we took to calling it), sat out on the rug and, in time-honoured fashion, toasted marshmallows on the portable gas hob. As Mum breastfed the baby like she was topping up the car ahead of a fuel strike, then disappeared with her into the darkness, I braced myself for that familiar sliding scale: a few squawks building to a teeth-grinding wail. Followed, presumably, by a shower of burnt bangers. Not a sound. We lasted an hour or so more, then I slipped my wife a knowing look. We crept into the tent (Velcro fasteners, rather than noisy zips — they really have thought of everything), stripped off and got down to some serious sleeping. I love the way camping legitimises the embarrassingly early night. And sleep the three of us continued to do until a cry from the nursery punctured the darkness. I pressed the light on my watch — 7am. I shook my watch. Still 7am. I unzipped our sleeping compartment and warm sunlight flooded in.
Rise and shine: a well-rested Penny
We're still not entirely sure how the miracle of the campsite came about. The soothing sound of the waves below? Sea air? Outrageous fortune? Or simply a priceless bit of kit designed by someone who understands that camping doesn't have to be a form of chin-up masochism? Probably a little bit of each. The icing on the cake? The baby hasn't stopped sleeping through since. Though the tent's wreaking havoc with our lawn. The Coleman FastPitch Air Valdes is available in four sizes; from £599 (coleman.eu)
Big game and five-star tents — welcome to rhino country
In Kenya's Masai Mara, Sean Thomas gets thrillingly close to lions and hippos, and visits a project that is battling to save the rhino It's Africa. It's dark. I'm on safari. And I'm being escorted through the lamplit blackness to my Masai Mara camp bed by a spear-wielding warrior, Saruni, who has just laconically informed me that there's a "hippo run" close to my tent. A what? "A hippo run." He smiles, reassuringly. "A place where hippos, uh, run." As I zip my tent shut, my mind wanders. A hippo run? I'm guessing that he means there must be hippos within, say, 200m. Maybe they like mud-bathing half a mile away? Surely he doesn't mean close, because hippos are notoriously one of Africa's most dangerous animals, beaten only by buffaloes. But no. It turns out Saruni means right by the tent. Halfway to sleep, I am wrenched awake by the ominous sound of Africa's second most dangerous animal lurching out of the nearby river, harrumphing through the undergrowth and, basically, brushing past my knees, the other side of the canvas. Then one stops and makes a distinct munching sound. I'm pretty sure it's eating my tent. It's time to remind myself about the good reason why I'm here. This afternoon I took one of the greatest light aircraft rides in the world. My Airkenya eight-seat aircraft ascended into the wide blue east African skies, leaving the slums and skyscrapers of Nairobi — soon we were riding the rollercoaster thermals that spiral from the Rift Valley, the trench of lakes and volcanoes that extends from Lebanon to Mozambique but which peaks in its grandeur here in Kenya, where humanity was born. Thirty minutes later we descended towards the Masai Mara, Kenya's precious, rolling subsection of the great Serengeti, one of the noblest sanctuaries of Africa's iconic wildlife. From my plane, I could see great herds of zebra, stately parades of giraffe, mud-caked grey buffalo and hundreds of fleet and jaunty gazelles. As the plane landed on the last dust-and-grass airstrip, I spied a herd of elephants a few yards away, laconically chewing acacia as they gazed at the taxiing plane, like office workers smoking in the street staring vacantly at a No 73 bus. I could have gone home right then, having already clocked many of Africa's most famous species — and from the most spectacular perspective. One great animal was missing, however. The rhino. And that is why I am in Kenya; to see how rhinos have disappeared from much of Africa, and how one species is dying out entirely, right now, 200 miles north of the Mara. So I'm on a mission — and I can't let a hungry hippopotamus get in the way. Soon enough, the chomping hippo stops, and the beast drifts along — then I hear a lion roar and an owl hoot and the trillion stars of Africa gaze down with eternal indifference and, in the end, I decide that the rush hour of hippos is no more distracting than London traffic and I fall into a deep sleep.
A guard opens a gate and here they are. The last northern white rhinos on the planet
The day starts early with pre-dawn coffee delivered by more whispering Mara tribesmen to the trestle table outside my tent. I'm staying in Rekero Camp, concealed in a dappled meander of sweet cooling greenery and run by a charming and affable young Aussie-Kenyan couple, Peter and Stacey. The camp does great food, fine South African wines and brilliant cakes for tea. There are vervet monkeys in the trees, there is wi-fi in the "mess" and the fresh-linen-and-flush-loo tents overlook the glittering backwaters of the River Talek. I haven't got time to linger, however. My guide for the duration — Pius of the Masai — is taking me on my first game drive. As we rattle out of Rekero he tells me about his two wives, four kids and the day his uncle Oloolpatit, who taught Pius about the bush, was tossed and gored by a buffalo. Uncle Oloolpatit got his stomach ripped open but managed to spear the buffalo to death, mend the wound "with some leaves", before walking 25 miles to get "proper" help for the savage gash, which was sewn up in a mud hut; after which he went hunting again. Pius adds: "He was a pretty tough man. Died last year age 108. Look, there's a lion." He's right. We've been driving ten minutes and I have just seen my first lion, disappearing into the thickets. Indestructible Uncle Oloolpatit was clearly a good teacher, because Pius is an excellent guide. That's as it should be, however, because Rekero is one of the Mara's finest camps. Not only is it very comfortable, it's smack-bang in the middle of the park, where much of the creature action can be found. Safari connoisseurs choose Rekero, for example, in wildebeest migration season — September to November — to watch the famous river crossings. Those savage ones from TV, where crocs drag the gnus to a grisly death. Rekero's centrality means you can see all the Mara's different landscapes, the rivers, woodlands and bald, intriguing hills. About the only disadvantage is that because it's in a national park, not a private conservancy, you can't do night drives. There's plenty of fauna to be going on with by day, however. Half an hour after we've quit the camp, we're staring at an entire pride of lions feasting on, yes, a hippo. "This is very rare," says Pius, driving us upwind of the pungent banquet. "Lions won't usually tackle hippos because they are big, dangerous creatures." Before I can tell him that I have hippos trying to share my tent, he goes on: "But lions do love the taste of hippo, they love the fat. And this will feed the whole pride for a week. Hey, there's the males," he points to the shade of a tree, where three big, handsome, male lions, their bellies visibly full, are snoozing off the feast, reclining like a rich Roman family from the era of Augustus. "These are good times in the Masai Mara. The rains were full and late, so there's a sense of plenty." The subsequent days, filled with morning and evening game drives, prove him right. I see a single-mum family of three cheetah — my first wild sighting — gamboling on one of those treeless hills. I see Thomson's gazelle and Grant's gazelle, dwarf mongoose and bat-eared fox, impala, hartebeest, bushbuck and topi.
Rekero Camp in the Masai Mara
It's the rutting season for topi — a lordly, tawny antelope — so the males joust and butt by a water hole, kicking up the russet dirt of the savannah, filling the late-afternoon air with the strangely addictive scent of wild African soils. Then we drive to the Mara river and Pius mixes possibly the strongest gin-and-tonics in east Africa, just as the dying sun turns the sky purple and burgundy and the river into pools of glowing amber. Mighty crocodiles slither into nocturnal action, 20ft from my canapés. It occurs to me, as I accept my third G&T, that I'm feeling an almost-perfect happiness. Almost. Because I still haven't seen rhino. And that's because there aren't many left in the Masai Mara, or the entire Serengeti. As in the rest of Africa, they have been poached into oblivion. If you're in Kenya and you want to see rhino, guaranteed, there's only one place left: the Ol Pejeta Conservancy, in the Kenyan uplands, is a place that tells the rhino story in all its poignant tragedy — and with maybe a scintilla of hope. It's another hour's flight across southern Kenya to Ol Pejeta, which straddles the Equator and sits at an altitude of 2,000m (meaning much cooler nights and no mosquitoes). Ol Pejeta used to be a cattle ranch owned by the Saudi businessman Adnan Khashoggi. Now it has been rewilded and is practically as bountiful in game watching as the Mara.
There's so much wildlife here, and it's so noisy in the dark, you may not get much sleep, at first
The camp, again perched over a remote stretch of Kenyan river, is slightly more rugged than Rekero — though the food is possibly even better. The guests are a magnificently eccentric bunch, from the beautiful Anglo-Belgian teenage intern who insists on chocolate-sprinkled toast, to the gung-ho British ex-soldier who is taking his surprisingly sanguine family on a trek to Lake Turkana (he's 77), to the octogenarian American billionairess who came for a week and stayed for three months and who tells me that her neighbour Donald Trump is a "very smart man" and a "jolly good delegator" — with a twinkle in her eye. The fireside dinners are hilarious: pepper steaks and gossip. The setting is fabulous: Mount Kenya dominates the mighty horizon. The game drives are glorious: in one day I see more cheetah and more impish gazelles, we nearly run over a lioness, we almost hit a hyena, I see African hares and the rare Grévy's zebra, then massive troops of baboons like a raggle-taggle army on the march. The birdlife is equally fecund: superb starlings, iridescent green and sapphire, and lilac-breasted rollers, made of seven colours, like a bird by Fabergé, like a bird made for a tsar. About the only disconcerting aspect of Ol Pejeta (apart from the chilly nights, when the hot-water bottles are welcome) is the noise. There's so much wildlife here, and it's so noisy in the dark, you may not get much sleep, at first. And what noises they are. As I lie here, eyes bright, I seem to be listening to a squirrel inexplicably trapped in a shoebox. Then I hear dogs apparently skiing. Then a classroom of gibbons attacking a young Irish priest. Or something like that. Next day, last day: rhino day. We wake to the news that another rhino has been poached from Ol Pejeta. A pregnant southern white has been poisoned and left to bleed to death, even as the poachers hacked off her horn. Depressing. Then, as we drive the dirt roads, I spy my first rhino in the wild, then three more. My guide says that this is no coincidence: Ol Pejeta, with its teams of guards, rangers and zoologists, is slowly but successfully expanding its rhino population — despite the poachers. The darkest story comes last. We turn a corner, a guard opens a gate and here they are. The very last northern white rhinos on the planet: all three of them. They were brought here from a Slovakian zoo to spend their days in the world's best rhino country in the hope that they would breed but it hasn't worked. The last male, Sudan, is too old. So they're doomed. There is no hope, apart from the sci-fi dream of cloning. I go up to Sudan and pat his leathery back. I can hardly look him in his half-blind and rheumy eye. We did this. We exterminated the northern white rhino. We wiped them from the Earth so that the Chinese can have pointless folk medicines and the Vietnamese can have pretty knife handles. It's hard not to be horribly angry, and terribly sad. At Ol Pejeta Bush Camp, Alex Hunter, the owner, hands me a cold Tusker beer and tells me to cheer up. "It's too late for the northern whites, but we can save the rest of the rhino. And the best way to save them is by pumping money in — by encouraging tourism. If your readers want to do their bit, tell them to come out here on safari and see it all for themselves." Amid the gloom, this a good place to end. If you come on safari to Kenya, you can get almost eaten by hippos and have a magnificent holiday, and at the very same time you will be helping to save one of the world's most extraordinary animals. It's difficult to think of a greater motivation for your next vacation. Need to know Sean Thomas was a guest of Expert Africa (020 8232 9777, expertafrica.com). An eight-night safari, staying at Rekero Camp in the Mara Naboisho Conservancy and Ol Pejeta Bush Camp in the Ol Pejeta Conservancy, costs from £3,940pp, based on two people sharing, including international flights on Kenya Airways (kenya-airways.com), internal flights on Safarilink (flysafarilink.com), full-board accommodation, most drinks and all park fees and activities.
The 30 coolest places to camp in Britain
From luxury yurts on a Scottish isle to a cosy cabin in Pembrokeshire, we pick the best sites for summer 1 The Lake Bodmin, Cornwall Row across the spring-fed lake or take a refreshing dip at this converted shipping container next to a disused clay quarry on Bodmin Moor. There's a Scandi feel to the interior, with clean, simple lines combined with a fully equipped kitchen, double bed, french windows, LED lighting and a wood-burner. A solar-powered shower and eco-friendly toilet are at the back. There's no fridge, but an ingenious cage hangs off the jetty to keep milk, butter and beer cool. Explore the vast, wild expanse of Bodmin Moor or visit Restormel Castle, with its 360-degree rural views. Details Two nights for two cost from £200 (coolcamping.co.uk) 2 Secret Meadows Woodbridge,Suffolk Hire your own hen coop and cook freshly laid eggs for breakfast during your stay at this brightly coloured gypsy caravan on a 115-acre farm. Set in a secluded meadow, it's furnished in a vintage style with a fitted wardrobe, wood-burner, candle lanterns and a stable door. An adjacent and equally charming shepherd's hut has a swish kitchen with a belfast sink, wood-burner range, table and chairs, sofa, a wooden built-in cupboard bed for two, and a shower room and WC. Hire bikes can be delivered to your door for exploring the countryside. Safari-style tents and a converted horsebox are also on site. Details Three nights for four cost from £357 (oneoffplaces.co.uk) 3 Little Barn Pembrokeshire This cosy cabin overlooking a pond on a 40-acre smallholding is the perfect place to get away from it all (there's no phone signal or wi-fi). The bespoke wooden kitchen has a two-ring gas hob, but no fridge (a cool box is provided in warmer months) and there's a wood-burner cooker. On balmy days barbecue on the wood or charcoal grill and enjoy the wilderness views (you may spot badgers or otters). There's underfloor heating in the shower room, which has a bidet and loo, and an electric heater in the bedroom. Take the little boat out for a row on the pond, or visit the ancient market town of Cardigan, with its nearby sandy beaches and canoeing trips up the River Teifi. Details Two nights for two cost from £350 (0117 204 7830, canopyandstars.co.uk) 4 MorphPOD Felindre, Powys Floor-to-ceiling windows let light flood into this camping pod which has cleverly designed beds that hook to the sloping ceiling when not in use (you can hire linen). A canopied veranda allows you to cook or store a bike, and there's enough space for four people to eat alfresco. Hot breakfasts or dinners can be delivered to your door if you don't fancy cooking. Hire a fire pit with a basket of wood. Shower facilities are at the nearby farmstead and an eco-toilet is 20 yards away. Powis Castle and the Offa's Dyke long-distance walking trail are within easy reach. Details One night for two is from £40, or from £60 for four (01547 510282, brandyhousefarm.co.uk) 5 Cherry Blossom Hut Kenn, Devon This stylish shepherd's hut is tucked away in a peaceful meadow bordered by wildflower hedges and a little stream. There's a bespoke kitchen with solid oak fittings, belfast sink and full-size fridge, plus a wood-burner and en suite shower room. The double bed can be pushed up into the wall during the day for extra space. Additional touches include wrought-iron window fittings, and chic curtains and blinds. The pub, with some excellent food, is a short stroll away. Explore the beaches of the South Hams and the cathedral city of Exeter, both within easy reach. Details Three nights for two cost from £263.40 (01326 555555, classicglamping.co.uk)
6. Hesleyside Huts, Hexham, Northumberland
6 Hesleyside Huts Hexham, Northumberland The emphasis is firmly on the glamorous side of glamping at these reclaimed oak huts, the largest and newest of which — Holly — was built in the style of an American pioneer chapel, albeit one with a magnificent copper bath and a king-size bed. In the grounds of an 18th-century manor house, all four huts have electricity, well-equipped kitchens and a wood-burner with plenty of logs. Two feature king-size beds and a single bed for a child, while the third has a four-poster and separate bunk room; all have en suite shower rooms and eco-friendly loos. Explore the sprawling estate, where you can fish on the lake, or go sailing, waterskiing, zip wiring or kayaking at nearby Kielder Water and Forest Park. When night falls build a campfire and gaze at the stars in this dark sky reserve. Details Two nights for four from £150 (coolcamping.co.uk) 7 Ty Donkey Crickhowell,Powys Feed the pet donkeys Lily and Dida at this "upcycled" oak railway cabin in the Brecon Beacons. Inside it has retained its rustic look, with a handmade kitchen, sheepskin rugs and Welsh blankets and a wood-burner. Climb the ladder to a romantic bed in the eaves dotted with fairy lights. Downstairs are handmade cabin beds ideal for those under eight; older children can sleep in a tent outside. Bikes can be delivered to the door to explore the rolling countryside or to ride along the river to the local pub. Foodie Abergavenny and the bookshops and tearooms of Hay-on-Wye are within an easy drive. Details Three nights for four cost from £320, a week from £580 (01873 890415, sugarandloaf.com)
8. Hobbit Holes, Ullswater, Cumbria
8 Hobbit Holes Ullswater,Cumbria Enjoy magnificent views over Ullswater from the covered patios of these pads built into the hillside on a camping and caravan site. The 50ft-square interiors have a sleep ledge with mattresses, a bench, table, heater and electric and USB sockets. There's also a toilet and wash basin. Porthole windows add to the Hobbit-like feel. Free solar-powered showers are available on this popular site, where many of the facilities — a shop, bar, children's playroom — are housed in converted farm buildings. Details One night for six costs from £65 (07768 727016, thequietsite.co.uk)
9. West Lexham Treehouses , King's Lynn, Norfolk
9 West Lexham Treehouses King's Lynn, Norfolk There's a bohemian feel to the interiors of these four treehouses, with splashes of colour in the quilted bedspreads, bunting and stained-glass windows complementing the natural wood. Sunrise Tree House has a large elevated deck overlooking a lake and french doors leading to an open-plan living area with a wood-burner. There are two double beds, one on a mezzanine, and a twin. A covered kitchen with a wood-fired pizza oven plus a shower block with flushing vintage loos and basins are close by. The 21-acre estate has formal gardens, a tennis court and a lake for boating. Details Two nights for six cost from £501.60 (01760 755 602, westlexham.org) 10 Acton Scott Safari Tents Church Stretton, Shropshire Tucked away in a clearing in an ancient 20-acre woodland are two new luxury safari tents with a large open-plan living space, one double bedroom and a bunk room and flushing loo. There's a hot shower in an adjacent hut and one tent also has a hot tub. If you don't fancy cooking, gourmet meals can be delivered to your door. Children can collect eggs, feed the lambs and pigs or watch the shire horses on this estate where the BBC series Victorian Farm was filmed. Details Two nights for six cost from £270, £322 with the hot tub (01348 830922, qualityunearthed.co.uk) 11 Kittisford Barton Wellington,Somerset A paradise for small children, this new site has pigs and chickens to feed, a stream to splash about in and a lake, fenced off for safety. The safari-style tents have a double, twin and bunk room, fully equipped kitchen, and a shower and WC with hot and cold water. A fire pit on the deck keeps you warm when the sun goes down. Take the steam-powered West Somerset Railway to beaches at Minehead or Dunster, or do a circular walk taking in one of the child-friendly pubs en route. Details Three nights for six cost from £480 (01638 779143, lanternandlarks.co.uk) 12 Coppicer's Lodge Petersfield,Hampshire Children will love climbing a tree branch to reach their bed in the eaves adorned with fairy lights at this secluded canvas-covered cabin in a 100-acre ancient woodland above the banks of the River Rother. The main room has a double bed with linen, rugs and a wood-burner. A well-equipped kitchen with a gas camping stove is on the covered veranda, or you can cook over the open fire. A cool box is provided. An outdoor hot shower and compost toilet are around the back. Nearby attractions include the National Trust's Uppark House, Go Ape and Jane Austen's House Museum. Details One night for four costs from £150 (07789 954476, adhurst.co.uk) 13 Soul Camping near Port Isaac,Cornwall The owner's former career as a fashion designer shines through in this trio of bell tents near the north Cornish coast, ideal for a group of up to 15. Each tent has a king-size bed with a proper mattress, Egyptian cotton sheets and 15-tog duvets, with floors covered by hand-woven rugs. There's a stylish wicker chest to store clothes and a proper tea set (there are even champagne flutes and an ice bucket). Three more mattresses can fit in each tent; each has its own campfire, tripod for cooking and compost loo. An off-grid field kitchen seating 15 and a living room tent decked out with rugs are ideal for socialising. A hot tub with a view is also available. Details Two nights for five cost from £295, a week from £660 (01208 851127, soulcamping.co.uk)
14. Happy Days Retro Vacations, Saxmundham, Suffolk
14 Happy Days Retro Vacations Saxmundham, Suffolk A sixth caravan joins the retro campsite Happy Days' new location near the Suffolk coast this season. Upholstered in orange, the 1972 four-berth Avion (like an Airstream but not as common) is kitted out with a red fridge, vintage print fabrics, crocheted blankets and retro games. The site is ideal for young children, with a new fairy garden opening this summer. A little house, with doors and windows and set in the trees, will join a vintage play truck, giant trampoline and play poly tunnel. Grown-ups will appreciate the new wet-room style shower, and toilet block with underfloor heating. Aldeburgh, renowned for its fish restaurants, and Southwold, with its chi-chi pier, are an easy drive away. Details Two-night weekends for four are from £220 (01728 603424, happydaysrv.co.uk)
15. Sapperton Yurt, Chalford, Gloucestershire
15 Sapperton Yurt Chalford,Gloucestershire Follow the path through ancient woodland to reach this secluded yurt, one of four dotted across a 70-acre site. Wallow in the warm waters of a roll-top bath in a converted horse trailer among the trees before relaxing in a hammock on the deck. There's a covered kitchen and compost toilet, as well as access to flushing loos, hot showers and a laundry in the Old Barn, a few minutes' walk away. Inside, the yurt is decked out with a wood-burner, sheepskins, rugs and a double bed with white linen. Details Three nights for two cost from £440 (07847 517905, cotswoldyurts.co.uk) 16 Gypsy wagon Tilston, Cheshire This green and red painted bow-top gypsy wagon is in a quiet spot on the edge of a village. It has a full-size double mattress, and cooking and ablutions are carried out in a neighbouring oak-framed lodge, with a sleek shower room, kitchen with granite worktops and hand-thrown bowls and mugs made by the owner. Cosy up next to the wood-burner or barbecue on the veranda, where you may spot buzzards, badgers and foxes. Details Two nights cost from £170 (01348 830922, qualityunearthed.co.uk) 17 Runach Arainn Isle of Arran Glamping has arrived on this Scottish isle, with two yurts in the grounds of a 17th-century rectory. Both sleep up to six, with a double bed and two double futons. A wood-burning stove doubles as a cooker. Each yurt has a private bathroom with shower, a composting loo that resembles a flush toilet, and solar-powered lighting. Walk to Torrylinn beach, go mountain biking along forest tracks that crisscross the island or explore the coast in a kayak. Details Two nights for six cost from £130 (runacharainn.com). Return ferry crossings from Ardrossan on the mainland cost from £52.80 (calmac.co.uk)
18. The Tabernacle at Frieda and the Moon Lanreath, Cornwall
18 The Tabernacle at Frieda and the Moon Lanreath, Cornwall Built in the style of a 19th-century prefab travelling church, this quirky bolt hole for two has a screen made from reclaimed ecclesiastical shutters, a stained-glass window and a belltower. Inside it's decorated with botanical wallpaper, Farrow & Ball paint, antiques and plenty of books and art. There's also a king-size bed and wood-burner, as well as a gas hob and fridge. An en suite shower room has a double shower and flushing loo. Details A week for two costs from £513 (01326 555555, classicglamping.co.uk)
19. Pitch My Tent, Gower Peninsula
19 Pitch My Tent Gower Peninsula Majestic views across the Bristol Channel to north Devon unfurl in front of your pre-pitched bell tent. Based at the Oxwich Camping Park on the Gower Peninsula, you're only a short stroll from Oxwich Bay with its sand dunes, salt marshes and coastal walks. Each tent sleeps up to four people and is equipped with air beds (including bedding), carpets and tables, while fairy lights and lamps light up cosy evenings. A gas stove is also provided for outdoor cooking. Details Two nights cost from £150 (love-glamping.co.uk) 20 Haddy's Hut Hope, Derbyshire After a day's walking in the Peak District National Park, return to this swish shepherd's hut, with its underfloor heating, double glazing and wood-burner. There's a bespoke bed, and a wall-mounted TV with DVD player. The fully equipped kitchen has a belfast sink and there's an en suite shower room. It's very light and airy, with french doors maximising the views. Details Two nights for two cost from £225 (01433 621955, oakerfarm.co.uk) 21 The Little Abodes, Clachtoll Lochinver, Inverness-shire Wallow in your hot tub on the deck of these twin pods in the Scottish Highlands that overlook the sea. There's a kitchen area with a sink, mini fridge, microwave, cooking equipment and crockery. On balmy evenings you can barbecue on the deck. There's also a shower room, table and chairs and a double bed with linen and towels, plus a TV/DVD player. Walk along the coast, where you may spot grey seals and dolphins, or tackle some of Assynt's famous peaks. Details Three nights for two cost from £270 (01571 855283, thelittleabodes.co.uk) 22 Gurt the Yurt Arlington,East Sussex Your only neighbours will be sheep, horses and cows when you stay at this pretty yurt on a working farm. Inside are a double bed and camp beds suitable for two children, plus a wood-burning stove. Bring your own stove (and cooking equipment) or cook on the barbecue on the deck. A compost toilet and shower block are close by. It's a short walk to the village of Ditchling, with its country pubs serving local ales. A farm shop is open on Fridays and Saturdays, while an on-site chef can prepare a special meal. Details One night for two costs from £120 (airbnb.co.uk; ref 9278183)
23. Ecopod Boutique Retreat, Lettershuna, Argyll
23 Ecopod Boutique Retreat Lettershuna, Argyll These chic, light-filled geodesic domes sit on their own decks overlooking Loch Linnhe. The boutique hotel-style interior includes a designer kitchen, wood-burner and a sleek cedar bathroom. A separate bedroom has a handmade double bed with organic linen and a memory mattress. A complimentary luxury hamper might include scallops from Loch Linnhe, locally brewed beer and handmade chocolates, with the staples such as bread and milk. Go sea kayaking, take the ferry to Mull or Iona or go mountain biking at Fort William, then wallow in your cedarwood hot tub. Details Three nights for three cost from £495 (07725 409003, domesweetdome.co.uk) 24 Caban in the Glade Graig Wen, Snowdonia Enjoy 360-degree views of pines through glazed panels in this octagonal wooden pavilion on the banks of the Mawddach estuary. Its double bed is adorned with Welsh blankets, plus there are colourful rugs, a wood-burner and camping stove. A new eco-loo and simple shower have been built for the Caban and guests staying at two yurts near by. Climb Cader Idris or cycle road-free to Fairbourne beach. Details Two nights for two cost from £160 (01341 250482, graigwen.co.uk) 25 Armadillas Drumnadrochit,Inverness-shire Sit on the deck around the fire pit and enjoy elevated views of Great Glen at this Loch Ness glampsite. After a day's walking, cycling, fly-fishing or whitewater rafting, return to this cosy pod, with its underfloor heating, wet room with WC and kettle, toaster and fridge. Bedding, towels, crockery and cutlery are provided (each pod has its own barbecue). A cooked breakfast can be delivered to your door, and you can buy organic home-reared meat to cook on your barbecue. Details One night for two costs from £65 (01456 450114, lochnessglamping.co.uk)
26. Notgrove Glamping Pods, Notgrove, Gloucestershire
26 Notgrove Glamping Pods Notgrove, Gloucestershire Young children will love feeding the alapacas and donkeys on this 1,500-acre Cotswold estate. Hire bikes and explore the countryside or book a game of tennis on the estate's court. The pods are surprisingly spacious, with a double bed and sofa bed, en suite shower and WC, plus a kitchenette with fridge, microwave and hob (you'll need your own utensils and bed linen). There's also a games room and free wi-fi. Details Two nights for four cost from £170 (01451 850468, notgroveholidays.com) 27 Curvy Cabin Blackberry Wood,East Sussex For a campsite that has a double-decker bus and a converted search-and-rescue helicopter in its glamping portfolio, this new eco-cabin seems quite conventional. Inside the curvaceous wooden house is a large open-plan living area with a well-equipped kitchen, table and chairs and a double bed. Put the kids to bed in the separate bunk room (bring your own bed linen, towels and pillows) before cosying up in front of the wood-burner. There's also a sleek en suite shower room and a private outdoor seating area with a fire pit and barbecue. Details Two nights for four cost from £180 (01273 890035, blackberrywood.com) 28 The Oddsocks CartShropshire This former mobile theatre wagon has been transformed into a compact cosy retreat for two. Inside is a wood-burning stove, gas cooker, sink with running water, sofa bed with linen and a fold-down table. A compost toilet and hot outdoor shower are close by. Visit Ironbridge Gorge museum or explore the medieval town of Shrewsbury. Details Two nights for two cost from £150 (01743 860576, millhousefarm.org)
29. Courtney Hustyn Mine Park, Cornwall
29 Courtney Hustyn Mine Park,Cornwall Try wild swimming in the spring-fed lake before warming up in the hot tub on the deck of this spacious safari tent. Set on a 15ft wooden platform, the tent has been beautifully put together, with slate floors, fleeces and comfortable beds (a king-size double, two singles and a cabin bed ideal for children). There's also a shower cabin with great water pressure, a wood-burning stove and stone bowl fire pit. Details One night for six costs from £100 (0117 2047830, canopyandstars.co.uk)
30. Acorn Glade Melbourne, Yorkshire
30 Acorn Glade Melbourne,Yorkshire Go fishing on the lake at this adult-only, off-grid glampsite on the edge of the Yorkshire Wolds. Choose from yurts, a log cabin or, new for this spring, a 100-year-old gypsy caravan with a pullout double bed, coal-burning stove and stained-glass window. The yurts and log cabin have double or king-size beds and wood-burners. The communal Chicken Shed has everything you need, including a gas hob, microwave, pots, pans, crockery and a shower room with WC. There's no wi-fi, so just kick back and read a book, or socialise around the fire pit. Details Two nights for two cost from £80 in the gypsy caravan. Yurts and the log cabin sleep two and are from £175 for three nights (01759 319151, acornglade.co.uk)
Taking off: what's new in the world
Travel section of the year You're reading the best travel journalism in Britain. Not our words — we're far too modest — but those of our peers. Last week, this section was named National Broadsheet Newspaper Travel Section of the Year at the Travel Media Awards. In a convincing double, our glossy sister title The Sunday Times Travel Magazine won Consumer Publication of the Year. The gongs come on top of our recent wins at the Aito travel writing awards, in which our two titles won both Travel Writer of the Year and Young Travel Writer of the Year.
Ride in the Valkyrie Bored by business class? Fed up with first? Then the Valkyrie-X could be for you. This limited-edition private jet seats four beneath its viewing-canopy cockpit. Produced by San Francisco-based firm Cobalt, the "rose gold" (don't call it pink) aircraft costs a shade over £1.2m. The range on a single tank is 1,150 miles, which won't get you to the Caribbean but is more than sufficient to fly repeatedly back and forth over your country estate. cobalt-aircraft.com
Stripped-back dining Want to take your topless sunbathing on holiday a step further? Opening in Tenerife in the new year will be the Canaries' first naturist restaurant. Diners at bamboo-clad Innato will be invited to strip off on arrival, then served a series of dishes by waiting staff, some of whom will act as human tables in the (possibly confusing) "aphrodisiac buffet". Inspired by the success of London's birthday-suit-only Bunyadi restaurant, which opened in the summer, Innato makes its debut in San Isidro on January 20. €150 per couple, with drinks; innatotenerife.com
Packing a punch The Barracuda is a backpack with bite. Its built-in battery can be wirelessly recharged when you're at home and then charges your stuff on the go; an alarm sounds should you leave the bag open, or some hapless pickpocket tries to rob you; it has push-button interlinked zip locks, a retractable keyring, detachable camera mount… and lest we forget, it also carries stuff. Barracuda Konzu from £126, kickstarter.com
Stride out with seals When it's finished, the England Coast Path will be a not-inconsiderable 2,700 miles long – one of the longest continuous walking trails in the world. The devil is in the detail, of course, and one of the fiddlier sections – from Hopton-on-Sea to Sea Palling in Norfolk – has just been completed. The 21-mile stretch includes the wildlife haven of Winterton-Horsey Dunes (known for its basking seals), cracking views of Great Yarmouth's wide sandy beach, and three miles of hitherto inaccessible pathway. nationaltrail.co.uk/england-coast-path
Our experts answer your travel queries My husband, three teenage children and I want to go trekking somewhere warm over October half-term. Can you help? Jo James, Cardiff Jeremy Lazell replies: Morocco is a sure bet, with October temperatures in the 20s and superb hiking in the High Atlas. Fleewinter has a private, fully supported trek between ancient villages in the shadow of Mount Toubkal. You'll camp for five days, then spend two nights in a riad in Marrakesh. The eight-day trip costs £575pp, including transfers and most meals, but not flights (fleewinter.com). Prefer to travel in a group? Families Worldwide's Teen Hike & Bike itinerary adds camel rides and mountain biking to trekking in the High Atlas, with beach time in Essaouira. Departing on October 15 or October 22, the nine-day trip costs £1,099pp, B&B, including flights and some meals (familieswordwide.co.uk). You'll find sunshine in Tenerife, too. KE Adventures has an eight-day Teenage Tenerife Hiking Highlights group trip that includes six days of trekking, with an ascent of Mount Teide, and dolphin-watching. Prices start at £995pp, including meals and transfers, but not flights (keadventure.com). Or how about a Sicilian Volcanoes Family Adventure? Exodus's eight-day trip has guided hikes on Etna, Stromboli and Vulcano, pizza-making and kayaking; from £1,199pp, including flights, transfers and some meals (exodus.co.uk).
Guadeloupe is a French overseas territoryALAMY
I'm travelling to the French overseas territories of Guadeloupe and Martinique, in the Caribbean. My European travel insurance policy doesn't cover me for these two islands — but the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) seems to. I have had two embolisms and am on medication. I have not been able to get insurance for these islands on any worldwide policy. Am I OK just to travel with my EHIC? Christel Struckmeier, Montrose, Angus Chris Haslam replies: The EHIC does indeed cover Guadeloupe and Martinique, but not, oddly, the French overseas departments of French Guiana, in South America, or the islands of Mayotte or Réunion, in the Indian Ocean. The card entitles you to free or reduced-cost medical care, including the treatment of existing conditions. The benefits are limited, however, and the card should not be considered as an alternative to travel insurance — repatriation, for example, is not covered. Your medical history does not preclude getting insurance, although you will have to pay a premium. Specialist insurers that can help include Campbell Irvine (020 7938 1734, campbellirvinedirect.com), Staysure (0800 033 4902, staysure.co.uk) and Avanti (0800 888 6195, avantitravelinsurance.co.uk).
Ask the team: trekking in Patagonia and Korean cuisine A friend and I want to go trekking in Patagonia, walking the Torres del Paine circuit and Los Glaciares National Park from El Chalten to Villa O'Higgins, and visiting Punta Arenas. Many companies in the region offer sightseeing trips with some walking. Are there any that do proper trekking itineraries? Sandra Monk, Hilton, Huntingdon Vincent Crump replies: A decent spread of South American specialists lay on meaty Torres del Paine and Los Glaciares treks in discrete bites, and will happily rustle up a bespoke itinerary, for a price. Swoop Patagonia has an off-the-peg trip running north from Punta Arenas, in Chile: there's a day spent exploring the town's mansions and museums, then it's on across the steppe for the six-day Torres del Paine trek. The Argentine stage detours to the Perito Moreno glacier en route to El Chalten, where the guided three-day Huemel circuit is rocky, remote and well beyond the standard tourist trail. Oh, and you get three days in Tierra del Fuego to finish, which should dent any disappointment about missing out on Bernardo O'Higgins National Park. The 21-night trip starts at£3,110pp, excluding flights (0117 369 0196, swoop-patagonia.co.uk). Adding your Villa O'Higgins stage makes things trickier, but a local operator, Robinson Crusoe, now joins it up with El Chalten and Los Glaciares. To tick all your boxes, you'll need to fly to Balmaceda via Santiago. Then it's a two-day drive to Villa O'Higgins and a 12-mile walk across the Argentine border to El Chalten, with a couple of short boat journeys tying up the loose ends. Andean Trails can sort all that out for you from the UK, and suggests adding three days of self-guided trekking to Mount Fitz Roy and other Los Glaciares marvels, then two days to eyeball the Perito Moreno glacier. The full nine-day Paine circuit follows — with a guide this time, because it's more technical — winding up in Punta Arenas. That will set you back about £2,350pp, based on two sharing; allow at least £800pp for flights (0131 467 7086, andeantrails.co.uk). I'm visiting a friend in Seoul in July, but have recently discovered that I can't stomach kimchi. Will it be everywhere, or can it be avoided? Will Teak, Shrewsbury Alessia Horwich replies: Pungent, spicy fermented cabbage isn't for everyone, but the Koreans can't get enough of kimchi, and you should expect it to be served with most of your meals. The good news is, it's usually offered as a side dish, along with pickles, garlic cloves and green chillies, which Koreans chomp raw without breaking a sweat. So, unless you're directly offered any, you can probably avoid kimchi altogether.
Skateboarding shortlisted for Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games
Skateboarding, surfing and climbing are closer to being part of the Olympic Games at Tokyo in 2020 after the Olympic movement took another big step forward in its ambitions to reach a younger, "cooler" audience. The three sports, along with karate, baseball and softball, were recommended for inclusion by the Tokyo Games organisers, with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) making the final decision in Rio de Janeiro next August. Bids to include squash, bowling and wushu, a Chinese martial art, were rejected with 26 federations trying to get their sports included.. While karate and baseball were chosen because of their popularity in Japan, the choice of skateboarding, surfing and climbing promises to tap into a younger audience and a changing sports counterculture. "The key word is youth," Toshiyuki Akiyama, vice governor of Tokyo and a member of the additional event programme panel, said. Surfing would take place on shortboards with wave machines, thus standardising the waves and removing the luck element by which competitions are often won by a surfer getting the best waves. It would also mean that the competition could take place near the other Olympic events and not be restricted to countries with ocean coastlines. "Surfing has incredible and growing global appeal, particularly among young people," Fernando Aguerre, the International Surfing Association president, said. "Surfing embodies a cool, playful lifestyle that would add a completely new element to the programme, helping the Games reach new fans through live action and stunning broadcast opportunities." Skateboarding has been a mainstay of the X Games since their launch in 1995 along with BMX, which was first included in the Olympics in 2008. If approved next summer, there will be two codes of skateboarding, both trick-based, one staged in a skatepark and the other in a street setting. The popularity of snowboarding at the Winter Olympics encouraged the supporters of skateboarding, while the sport's urban image also made it popular with Tokyo's officials. There will be a combined climbing event, set on an artificial climbing wall, with a points system picking an overall winner from the three main disciplines of climbing — lead, bouldering and speed. "We know younger people tend to stay indoors nowadays, and we believe we included events that will drive people outside," Tomiaki Fukuda, the president of the Japan Wrestling Federation, said. "It will create a new image for the Olympic Games." The changes would add another 18 gold medals to the Olympic schedule and an extra 474 athletes, within the cap of 500 additional athletes set by the IOC. Baseball and softball had been dropped from the Olympics before the 2012 Games. London's original bid had included plans for a temporary stadium in Regent's Park. The sports were introduced in 1992 but struggled for popularity as baseball's biggest stars did not compete, because of the refusal of Major League Baseball to suspend its season for the duration of the Olympics. In a bid to keep numbers down, there would be six teams in each event. Karate will be hoping to get into the Games at the third attempt, after bids to be included in 2012 and 2016 were turned down. It has also shrunk its ambition to be involved, with eight events, split evenly between men and women. There was another blow, though, for squash in its long-running attempts for Olympic inclusion. It was beaten by wrestling in a vote by the IOC two years ago, but was given a lifeline when the body decided that host cities could select extra sports. "I know I speak on behalf of the millions of squash players around the world for whom the opportunity of seeing their sport participate in the Olympics has been an absolute priority — and, like me, they will be heartbroken," said Narayana Ramachandran, president of the World Squash Federation, which will now begin the campaign for inclusion in 2024. "This is not the end for squash. Our sport, played by vast numbers week in and week out, flourishes at every level from recreational to events around the world. We will go from strength to strength while we continue to target participation at a future date in the Games."
The 50 best ski breaks to book now
Coolest new hotels 1. Le Totem Flaine, France This is a big winter for French ski-hotel openings and Le Totem, in high-altitude Flaine, is the pick of them. Until now the renowned Sibuet family's hotels — of which Les Fermes de Marie in Megève is the best known — have been four or five-star with prices to match, but hip Le Totem is three-star and aimed at a younger crowd. Expect avant-garde art mixed with vintage furniture, "woollen fabrics influenced by Native American culture" and a buzzy après-ski cocktail bar. The Sibuets intend to open a series of similar hotels in the Alps, with the next planned for Avoriaz. Details: B&B doubles are from €150 (£110). The hotel opens on December 18 (terminal-neige.com) 2. Hotel Pashmina Val Thorens, France Europe's highest resort has attracted huge investment from hoteliers. Pashmina will become the fourth five-star hotel in Val Thorens, which was once known for its cheap student breaks in simple apartments (try the Koh-I Nor or Altapura). Pashmina has a slick contemporary style, and a spa with a pool, hot tubs and treatments using L'Occitane products. Details: Half-board junior suites are from €510. The hotel opens on December 12 (hotelpashmina.com) 3. White 1921 Courchevel 1850, France The French designer Jean-Michel Wilmotte is the man behind the chic interior of this new 28-room hotel, which has a sister property in Saint-Tropez (opened in 2012). It's run by LVMH, the group that heads up Louis Vuitton and Moët & Chandon. Expect minimalism mixed with splashes of colour, as well as two salons that are likely to go down well with Courchevel 1850's socialite ski set. White 1921 will have a spa with a sauna, hammam and hot tub. It's in the centre of the resort, close to lifts. Details: B&B doubles are from €290. The hotel opens on December 19 (white1921.com/courchevel) 4. Le Taos Tignes, France There seems to be an American Wild West trend in the French Alps this winter. This four-star hotel in Tignes will have a "New Mexico-inspired ambiance" — Taos is a village in the Rocky Mountains, New Mexico, that caught the eye of the owners. The interior will feature ranch-style wooden panels, sheepskin rugs, Mexican blankets on beds and a steakhouse. The spa will have a hammam and an indoor heated pool. Details: B&B doubles are from €183. The hotel opens on December 4 (hotel-le-taos.com) 5. Le Yule Val d'Isère, France Le Yule is a 41-room boutique property with a vintage Scandinavian style. Expect blond wood floors, wood-panelled walls, furs and fireplaces. It's where the Hotel Grand Paradis used to be, right on the slopes, so it's ski-in and ski-out. The inside has been transformed. There's a pool and spa with treatment rooms, saunas and a steam room. The restaurant will serve local dishes. Details: Doubles with half-board are from €350. The hotel opens on December 9 (leyule.fr) 6. Peaks Place Laax, Switzerland This is a cool new apart-hotel of 74 self-catering apartments with one to three rooms, perfect for friends looking for a reasonably priced break in a lively resort. There's a spa with a pool, sauna, hot tub and treatments, as well as a bar and a restaurant. Details: Ski Safari has a seven-night stay from £550pp (four sharing a two-bed apartment) or £785pp (two sharing a one-bed apartment). The hotel opens on December 5 (01273 224060, skisafari.com, peaks-place.com) 7. adeo Alpin Hotel St Johann, Austria The former Olympic skiing gold medallist Hermann "the Herminator" Maier, with his former team-mate Rainer Schoenfelder, are opening a three-star, budget hotel in the small resort of St Johann. Rooms will be simple but comfortable. Maier plans to start a chain of properties to bring skiing within the means of the less wealthy. There's to be a spa and a restaurant. Details: Three nights' room-only in a double room is from €174. The hotel opens on January 15 (adeo-alpin.com) 8. Hôtel A Lârze Le Châble, Switzerland Le Châble, a village at 820m (2,690ft), is connected to the gondola that travels up to Les Ruinettes in Verbier, so there's excellent access to all the slopes of one of the most popular Swiss resorts. Hôtel A Lârze is a ten-room hotel built out of larch, from which the hotel gets its name. This is for those after a down-to-earth hideaway, but with comfortable rooms, wi-fi and a sauna for relaxing in after hitting the slopes. Details: B&B doubles are from £107 during the ski season. The hotel opens on December 10 (alarze.ch) Best new hotspots 9. Grand Bornand by rail, France A new direct Eurostar service to Lyons, which launched this summer, opens up a swathe of resorts previously inaccessible by fast train. To reach the charming village of Grand Bornand take a train from Lyons to Annecy (£42 return), before hopping on a bus up the hill (€8.20). Details: A week's self-catering is from £409pp, based on two sharing an apartment at the Village De Lessy (0844 5760170, peakretreats.co.uk). Eurostar (eurostar.com) returns to Lyons are from £89. For more, see snowcarbon.co.uk 10. New ski area, Austria A €20 million gondola will link the traditional village of Fieberbrunn to the resorts of Saalbach-Hinterglemm for the first time this winter. The new area has 220km of terrain, making it Austria's second-largest. Fieberbrunn will be offered by Inghams. Details: A week's half-board at the four-star Sporthotel Fontana costs from £799pp, including flights and transfers (01483 791114, inghams.co.uk) 11. Mega resort in Utah America The US has a new ski resort this year thanks to a link between Park City and Canyons. The two will be connected by gondola to become one large resort called Park City, covering 7,300 acres. The new lift forms part of a $50 million (£33 million) project, which will result in the creation of new slopes, upgraded chairlifts and renovated restaurants. Details: Ten nights' B&B at the four-star Silverado Lodge costs from £1,425pp, based on four sharing a two-bedroom lodge, including flights and transfers (01273 224060, skisafari.com) 12. Pre-Olympics visit South Korea If you're looking for a seriously quirky ski experience, South Korea is hard to rival. Yongpyong is the country's biggest resort and it will be home to the alpine events at the 2018 Pyeongchang Winter Olympics. Games preparations have barely started, so you can still experience this resort at its most authentic. Details: An eight-night tour of Yongpyong and Seoul costs from £1,280pp, including flights and transfers (01273 224060, skisafari.com). For more information see gokorea.co.uk Best on a budget 13. Half-price rooms in Whistler Canada With the most extensive ski area in North America and lively après-ski, Whistler has long been a favourite with British skiers. This season one of its iconic hotels, the Fairmont Chateau Whistler, has some tempting offers. Details: Frontier Travel is offering ten nights room-only in early December at Fairmont Chateau Whistler from £1,185pp with flights, ski carriage and transfers; a 50 per cent discount with an upgrade thrown in (020 8776 8709, frontier-travel.co.uk). Also see Carrier (0161 492 1359, carrier.co.uk) for Fairmont Chateau Whistler deals 14. Early-booking deal Austria The laid-back village of Hinterglemm is connected to Saalbach by extensive slopes. The mountains suit intermediates, with plenty of long red runs. The area is less busy than the likes of Verbier and St Anton, so rates are usually reasonable. Details: SNO has a week's aparthotel stay at the four star Adler Resort from £652pp, departing January 12, with flights and transfers included (02077 706888, sno.co.uk) 15. A week from £635pp France There's an outdoor hot tub at the Neilson Hotel Escapade in Alpe d'Huez There are also some good rates at the hotel, which is new to Neilson's stable this winter. Alpe d'Huez's slopes suit all levels and are famous for the 10km (6.2 miles) Sarenne run, which has some challenging sections for experts. Details: A week's chalet-board is from £635pp with flights, transfers, ski guiding and a £25 bar credit, departing on December 19 (0330 0143351, neilson.co.uk) 16. Two-country holiday Italy and France The resort of La Rosière is linked to La Thuile in Italy, so you can ski in two countries; the village of La Rosière is high, at 1,850m. Good value compared with nearby Les Arcs and Val d'Isère (but with just 150km of piste), it is a great choice for a quiet escape. Most of the apartments and hotels are ski-in, ski-out. Details: Ski Collection has a seven-night stay in Les Balcons de la Rosière self-catering apartment from £1,835 for a family of five, departing on December 19 or during January, with a Eurotunnel crossing included (02392 890960, skicollection.co.uk) 17. Short break in Gressoney Italy Fancy a short break for less than £600, staying half-board at a four-star hotel, with flights, transfers and lift passes included? That's what Ski Solutions is offering in the charming resort of Gressoney in Italy's Aosta Valley. The resort is part of the Monterosa ski area with 180km of well-connected pistes. Details: Ski Solutions has four nights' half-board at Hotel Lo Scoiattolo from £555pp with flights to Turin, transfers (which take 90 minutes) and lift passes, departing on December 10 (020 7471 7700, skisolutions.com) 18. Verbier on the cheap Switzerland The chic and popular resort of Verbier can be incredibly pricey, but Inghams has put together an enticing week-long break in the comfortable, laid-back Xtra Chalet de Verbier (book by October 15). The chalet-hotel has a bar and is a five-minute walk to the Medran gondolas. Details: Inghams has seven nights' chalet-board from £664pp in January with flights and transfers included; week-long lift passes are from £180pp, which is £75 less than usual (01483 791114, inghams.co.uk) 19. Short break in Trysil, Norway The best exchange rates in a decade will make the 75km of pistes in Norway's biggest ski area a hit this season. Trysil's ski area is split into four linked resorts. Turistsenter, with its intermediate terrain, is considered to be the main base. Fageråsen is great for beginners. Details: Four nights' B&B at the four-star Hotel Radisson Blu is from £445pp, including flights and transfers (020 8939 0864, flexiski.com) Best for beginners 20. Europe's longest green run, France Newbies to Val Cenis often wonder why they haven't heard of it before. The 125km ski area overlooks a lake, and is packed with beginner and intermediate terrain. Novices can tackle Europe's longest green run, the 10km Escargot (or snail). Details: A week's self-catering is from £340pp, based on two sharing an apartment at Les Alpages de Val Cenis (0844 5760170, peakretreats.co.uk). Eurostar (eurostar.com) returns to Lyons are from £89. Onward returns to Modane are £25. A bus connects with the resort 21. Winter sports in Geilo, Norway Headwater's new activity holiday offers the perfect introduction to four winter pastimes. You'll start on Nordic cross-country skis before switching to husky sledding and snowshoeing. Only then will you don your skis and head for Geilo's alpine beginner slopes. Details: Seven nights' half-board at the four-star Dr Holms Hotel is from £1,499pp, including equipment rental, all activities, flights and transfers (01606 828261, headwater.com)