theindependent--2019-08-05--Best places to go on holiday in October from Vietnam to New Hampshire

Best places to go on holiday in October, from Vietnam to New Hampshire

As the UK winds its clocks back, October is the month to escape to these trending travel spots.  Soak up autumn colours and harvest festivals in Italy and New England, or head for warmer shores in the Indian Ocean and South America.  Pull on your hiking boots: the start of dry season makes for ideal trekking conditions and picture-perfect scenery in Vietnam’s mountainous north. After the de rigueur junk ship cruise around dramatic Halong Bay, head an hour inland to Yên Tu, the country’s Buddhist capital. This serene pilgrimage site has somehow remained little-known to international visitors for centuries.  That could soon change, though, since a “base camp” of hostels, cultural centres and restaurants recently opened – including the area’s first five-star hotel, Legacy Yen Tu MGallery, designed by visionary architect Bill Bensley to authentically resemble a 13th century temple using handcrafted local materials. Hurry to explore its shrines and forest trails before Yen Tu becomes the new Hoi An.  Crisp air, ripe apples, flaming leaves – New England is radiant in October. Head off on the leaf-peeping road trip of a lifetime along the Kancamagus Highway (“the Kanc” for short, in local lingo) or the flatter Lake Winnipesauke Loop, which skirts the Granite State’s largest body of water. To get an alternative perspective of the fall colours, you can swoop over White Mountain woodland on Alpine Adventures’ zip line, featuring an 80-foot “white knuckle drop” (more sedate types can ride the Loon Mountain gondola instead).  Pumpkin carving and apple bobbing are among New Hampshire’s wholesome pastimes at this time of year, while White Mountain Oktoberfest (7-8 October) brings a raucous Bavarian knees up – think: stein-hoisting, keg tossing and oompah bands – to a backdrop of crimson-leafed maple trees. Remember, all those cosy, charming inns – like rustic-chic Chesterfield Inn, set in glorious farmland near the Vermont border – fill up fast so book rooms well in advance.  Spring has just sprung on this Indian Ocean island, so visitors can scuba dive in waters at their clearest and calmest, and laze on white sands beneath spotless skies. But far from being a fly-and-flop-only spot, Mauritius has plenty of faster-paced attractions that are worth prising yourself off the sun lounger for, like hiking to Black River Peak viewpoint (the highest point on the island), quad biking through sugar estate turned eco-playground Domaine de L’Étoile or exploring the Unesco-listed caves at Le Morne Brabant, built as hideouts by runaway slaves.  Looking for a cool alternative to cookie-cutter beach resorts? Glamping recently arrived in Mauritius in the form of Bubble Lodge, a collection of cosy, semi-transparent eco-domes on the island’s oldest tea plantation. Globetrotting author Mark Twain was clearly onto something when he declared: “You gather the idea that Mauritius was made first and then heaven was copied after Mauritius.”  Harvest brings a mouthwatering spate of foodie festivals to Tuscany’s underrated neighbour – Umbria, you’ll see, has equally gorgeous olive groves and medieval towns, only a little less tourist-packed. Both Gobbio and Città di Castello pay homage to precious, delicious white truffles at the end of the month, and even the humble chestnut even gets a series of parties, including Montone’s Festa del Bosco (Festival of the Woods) where street vendors sell paper cones of roasted chestnuts and restaurants set up tables heaped with nutty treats in the streets.  Perugia hosts the biggest chocolate celebration in Europe (16-25 October) and the Feast of St Francis of Assisi (4 October) sees the saint’s namesake town decked with banners for a traditional parade – even the Pope popped in for the festivities a few years ago. After wining and dining, roll yourself back to Tenuta di Murlo, where six villas and three rooms are scattered across the scenic estate.  It’s exactly 200 years since Charles Darwin published On the Origin of Species, but the allure of Galapagos – the archipelago where the scientist carried out some of his most groundbreaking research – is as magnetic as ever. The mode of transport and amenities, however, have changed (thankfully) since the days of HMS Beagle: hop aboard a new solar-powered skiff, Solaris, to reach Finch Bay hotel, a beachfront sanctuary on the south side of Santa Cruz.  The concentration of wildlife is sensational (and especially active at this time of year), from pelicans and penguins to manta rays and marine iguanas, plus the most famous residents, giant tortoises. A ready-made tour from an eco-conscious operator tends to be the best way to reach remote wilds like the lava fields of Fernandina or Genovesa aka “Bird Island” – among its tailor-made tours, Original Travel offers a nine-day island hopping template itinerary for £5,740 per person.


theindependent--2019-08-28--Best last-minute holiday deals for September from Sicily to Istanbul

Best last-minute holiday deals for September, from Sicily to Istanbul

If you haven’t had a chance to take a summer holiday, now’s the time to enjoy warm weather without the crowds or the high prices.  September is a superb time to visit much of Europe, where the seas have had all summer to warm up. And if you’re planning ahead for a December break – Christmas or otherwise – have a look at some of these ideas too.  Once the August crowds have gone back to school/work, enjoy the beauty of Portugal’s long southern coastline from the secluded vantage point of Villa Miguel. Set in the countryside north of Faro airport, and only a short drive from the Roman ruins of Estoi, the three-bedroom villa has a pool and several terraces with views of the Atlantic. Vintage Travel has a week’s rental from 14 September for £899.  A late-summer break in Sicily is an easy sell, particularly if you’re staying in the hilltop town of Castelmola. From your lofty perch you’ll have views of Mount Etna on one side and the exquisite town of Taormina leading down to the Ionian Sea on the other. Sicilian Places has a week’s holiday at the four-star Hotel Villa Sonia, which has an outdoor pool, superb views and a shuttle bus down to Taormina and the beach at Isola Bella. Departing 24 September, the holiday costs from £869pp and includes flights, transfers and breakfast.  Istanbul’s heat becomes more manageable once September comes around, making a short stay in this endlessly fascinating city even more of a delight. Stay in the buzzing Karakoy district, wedged between the Bosphorus, Beyoglu and the Bosphorus Bridge. Stylish Karakoy Rooms hotel has elegantly understated rooms, some facing the sea, along with a roof terrace for fabulous views. I-escape has standard doubles from €89 a night and sea-view rooms from €139.  As autumn draws closer in Quebec, so does the extraordinary display of colours marking the change of season. Visit from mid-September onwards to catch this vivid show, which you can see across the southern part of the province on a 14-day self-drive tour with Canadian Sky. The itinerary includes Montreal, Quebec City, plus whale watching and a boat cruise on the St Lawrence River, along with drives along the Gaspé peninsula and through Saguenay National Park. The starting price of £1,779pp includes flights, car hire, room-only accommodation and a river cruise, and is for departures throughout September.  Combine a visit to Melbourne with one of Australia’s great drives in a 12-day fly-drive holiday with Wexas. Explore part of the 243km Great Ocean Road, taking in some of the country’s most astonishing coastal scenery. Go surfing at Torquay and meet koalas at Kennett River before driving on to Port Campbell and views of the towering Twelve Apostles rock stacks. Prices start at £1,775pp and include flights, eight nights of B&B accommodation, nine-day car hire and UK airport lounge access, for departures up to 10 December.  If you’re planning a white Christmas, preferably one in the French Alps and involving hurtling down a mountain on skis, Peak Retreats is offering 10 per cent off its Christmas holidays in Tignes if you book before 31 October. Stay at the newly built luxury residence Loge des Neiges in Tignes 1800, near the Boisses gondola. After a day on the slopes, you can relax in the indoor pool, hot tubs and saunas. Prices start at £641pp based on four people sharing a two-bedroom apartment, departing 21 December and includes Eurotunnel return crossing.  For some early winter sun, take advantage of a half-price all-inclusive holiday in Barbados with Inspiring Travel Company. It’s offering a week at Sea Breeze Beach House hotel on the southern coast of the island, where you’ve got three pools and two beaches to choose from. Prices start at £1,939pp if you book by 2 October, and include flights, transfers and all-inclusive accommodation for a 2 December departure.  Mary Novakovich is editor at large at 101holidays.co.uk


theindependent--2019-10-28--Best budget ski resorts for a cheap winter holiday

Skiing isn’t exactly a cheap activity, but there are ways of making a winter holiday more affordable. While some European ski resorts will make your eyes water at their prices – €49 for a burger and chips at a mountain restaurant, anyone? – there are still plenty where you won’t have to spend a fortune.  Lift passes and ski hire can be considerably cheaper at certain resorts, as are restaurants and bars. Self-catering is an economical option, and if you find a ski package that includes half-board or a catered chalet, then you’ll have a good idea of how much extra you’ll have to budget for food and drink. Here’s a list of some of the best budget ski resorts in Europe.  The Independent’s ski recommendations are unbiased, independent advice you can trust. On some occasions, we earn revenue if you click the links and book, but we never allow this to affect our coverage.  It might be a bit awkward to reach at times, but Livigno is worth the effort of getting to this corner of the Italian Alps near the Swiss border. Unusually, it’s been a tiny duty-free enclave since 1840, which helps to cut down on costs. Its high-altitude pistes cover 115km and offer great skiing for all levels, and your lift pass even gives you the chance to ski in St Moritz across the Swiss border. Just don’t buy lunch while you’re there.  Inghams has a week’s self-catering at Al Gar Apartments in Livigno from £659pp, including flights and transfers, departing 4 January.  The French Pyrenees can’t compete with the Alps in terms of size, but they’re certainly much cheaper. St-Lary-Soulan is the largest resort, with 100km of slopes that suit intermediates and beginners best. Eating out is cheaper too, leaving you more cash to enjoy south-west France’s superb duck dishes.  Lagrange has a week’s self-catering at the four-star Domaine de l’Ardoiserie from £282. Lourdes is the nearest airport, which is served by Ryanair.  Alpbach in Austria’s Tirol region is one of the prettiest, as well as economical, places for a winter holiday. It’s full of cosy Austrian charm, and is also part of the large Ski Juwel area, which gives you 145km of pistes to play with. Its sensibly priced ski pass gives you a lot of ground and varied terrain to cover, helped by speedy lifts.  Crystal Ski has a week’s B&B at the Pension Fürstenhof from £350pp, including flights and transfers, for a 4 January 2020 departure.  Three laid-back villages make up the ski area of Val Cenis Vanoise in the Haute Maurienne valley, which give you 125km of pistes to explore. Many of the non-ski activities, including a spa centre, are based in the village of Lanslevillard, although it’s easy enough to walk to its neighbour, Lanslebourg.  Peak Retreats has a week’s self-catering in a one-bedroom apartment in Les Balcons de Village from £584, including Eurotunnel crossing, for a 4 January departure.  For years, Bankso has been a favourite among British holidaymakers who want to give skiing a go but don’t want to fork out huge amounts. Bankso is the biggest of the Bulgarian ski resorts, but it does have only one gondola that takes you to the ski area, so be prepared for long queues.  Crystal Ski has seven nights’ half-board at the Hotel Lion from £479pp, including flights and transfers, departing 4 January.  Small but beautiful, Kranjska Gora covers only 20km of pistes in the Julian Alps, but is still immensely charming despite its size. It’s best suited to beginners and cautious intermediates, as well as families who enjoy its friendly atmosphere, low prices and cuisine that blends Slavic with Italian. There’s also the very tempting option of a 40-minute drive for a day trip to enchanting Lake Bled.  Igulski.com has a week’s half-board at the Hotel Lipa departing 11 January from £515pp, including flights and transfers.  You get the extremes in Passo Tonale – high-altitude slopes but low prices. While it’s not the most attractive of ski resorts, you’ll have 100km of pistes at your feet – and the bonus of skiing over to tree-lined slopes of Ponte di Legno for more variety.  Crystal Ski has a week’s half-board at Hotel Eden from £482pp, including flights and transfers, for a 4 January departure.  You’ll have Austria’s largest ski domain, SkiWelt, on your doorstep when you stay in Ellmau, as well as lovely views of the Wilder Kaiser peak. That means 280km of slopes to get to know – many of which are a joy for intermediates who like gentle cruising – while staying in one of the country’s cheapest resorts.  Sno.co.uk has a week’s half-board at the three-star Hotel Claudia from £689pp, including flights, transfers and two-for-one ski/snowboard hire, for a 4 January departure.  Despite price rises in recent years, Andorra is still an economical place to ski, especially for beginners who can take advantage of a low-cost daily pass. Between Arinsal and its neighbour Pal, you have 63km of slopes, with the more challenging terrain found at Pal. For a change of scenery, a 10-minute bus ride takes you to the capital, Andorra La Vella, where there’s duty-free shopping and the largest thermal spa in Europe.  Neilson has a week’s chalet board at the Chalet Hotel Micolau from £545pp, including flights and transfers, departing 19 January.  Les Carroz is part of the vastly underrated Grand Massif ski domain, and has bags more traditional Savoyard charm than its better-known neighbour Flaine, which is a bit of a modernist blot. It’s a sweet, low-key place with access to 265km of pistes as well as ice-skating and a large sports/spa complex.  Erna Low has a week’s self-catering at the four-star Residence Léana from £338pp, including Eurotunnel crossing, for a 4 January departure.


theindependent--2019-11-14--Cheap ski holidays: Best deals on a budget, from beginners to experts

No doubt ski holidays can be pricey, but savvy snowsports fans can always pick up a bargain – tour operators release a whole range of deals throughout the season. The Independent will be keeping this rolling deals page regularly updated all winter long, so readers can find the best-value packages on the market in one place.  The Independent’s ski holiday recommendations are unbiased, independent advice you can trust. On some occasions, we earn revenue if you click the links and book, but we never allow this to affect our coverage.  Les Arcs, which combines with neighbouring La Plagne to form the mega ski area of Paradiski, offers a huge range of slopes and is great for adventurous intermediates. Ski Total is offering a saving of £120pp on seven-night packages to Chalet L’Ours Brun departing 15 December. Sleeping 12 guests in six en-suite rooms, the chalet is based in the resort’s highest base, Arc 2000, and is 250m from the nearest lift. Guests also have access to an indoor pool at the neighbouring Altitude Residence. From £599pp, chalet board, including flights and transfers. Other applicable deals for a 15 December departure include two-for-one equipment hire with the purchase of a full-area (Paradiski) lift pass; a six-day Paradiski lift pass for the price of a local Les Arcs pass; and, if you book as a group, the ninth guest goes free.  The small resort of Isola 2000 in the Southern Alps might not challenge experts, but has enough to delight beginners and intermediates with its 45 pistes, ranging in altitude from 1,800m to 2,610m. For those willing to take a punt on an early-season break, Ski France is offering seven nights’ self-catering accommodation at the Chalet de la Divas, sleeping up to 10 people, for £307 – a saving of £232 – for 2 December departures.  Spend the festive season in the mountains for a Christmas you’ll remember. St Anton in Austria is famed for its challenging, extensive terrain and its wild apres – but there’s also gentler lift-linked Lech to explore, plus the ultra-snowy Warth-Schrocken. Alpine Elements is offering £100 off this Christmas on seven-night stays at Chalet Rathia, departing 22 December. The price of £785pp includes chalet-board accommodation, flights and transfers.  Fancy something different? Levi in Lapland is Finland’s biggest resort, with 43 pistes, but its biggest draw is the range of non-ski activities on offer, from archery tag to smoke sauna, an ice gallery to Arctic survival “Hunger Games”. Inghams is offering a whopping £390pp discount on seven-night stays at the resort’s Immelmökit Cabins departing 1 December. Flights, transfers and self-catering accommodation in the traditional log cabins are all included for £299pp.  Get two countries for the price of one with a stay in La Thuile – this Italian resort is connected to La Rosiere over the French border. The resort is great for intermediates, with plenty of long, wide runs. Crystal has a week at the Hotel Du Glacier, B&B, for £535pp departing 12 January 2020 – a saving of £105pp. Includes flight and transfers.  If you’re looking for great-value coupled with extensive slopes, the Grandvalira ski area in Andorra has you covered. El Tarter is a small resort roughly in the middle of the ski area’s 210km of pistes. Neilson is currently offering seven nights’ chalet board at the Chalet Hotel Casale for just £375pp, including flights and transfers, on 15 December departures.  Luxury for less in Baqueira-Beret, Spain  Swap tartiflette for tapas with a trip to Spain’s biggest ski resort, Baqueira-Beret. It’s no coincidence it’s the resort favoured by the Spanish royal family – this elegant resort has 146km of satisfyingly long groomed runs alongside endless off-piste variations. Pierre et Vacances is offering 15 per cent off stays at the Hôtel Himalaia Baqueira, which features a spa with water jet pool. Seven nights’ B&B costs €1,221 per double room for 14 December departures.  Skiing can be an expensive holiday as a beginner. Heading to wallet-friendly Bulgaria can be a savvy way of keeping costs down. Balkan Holidays are offering a free ski kindergarten place or child lift pass when two parents pre-book “Full Ski” packs (lift pass, equipment hire and lessons) in the resort of Pamporovo. Plus the second child gets 50 per cent off a full ski pack. Seven nights’ B&B at the four-star Grand Hotel Murgavets currently costs £494pp, including flights and transfers, for a 21 December departure.


theindependent--2019-11-27--Best last-minute holiday deals for December, from Barbados to Cornwall

If the build-up to Christmas is getting too much and you need to escape, think about going somewhere warm – or snuggle up in a country cottage. You might even want to celebrate Christmas somewhere snowy and festive.  If you’re looking ahead to a March holiday, some of these ideas might inspire you.  You haven’t got far to stumble to the beach at Coral Mist Beach Hotel – it’s right in front of this cheerful three-star at Worthing Beach just south of Barbados’ capital, Bridgetown. There’s a pool too if you want a change of scenery. Teletext Holidays has a seven nights’ room only deal from £887pp departing 14 December, including flights and transfers.  Embrace all things festive while skiing down the slopes of Ischgl during Christmas week. Its snow-sure pistes are alluring enough – just add a hefty dose of mad Austrian après-ski for a party-filled week. Inghams has a week’s B&B at family-run Hotel Binta from £779pp, including flights and transfers, departing 21 December.  If you’re looking for a cosy Christmas in a romantic setting, check out Streamside Mill. This cute one-bedroom stone cottage has a wood-burning stove and is close to St Just and Cape Cornwall. And there’s a pub only 400 yards away. Classic Cottages has five nights’ rental for £461 from 22 December.  Tourism is picking up again in Egypt, and now is a good time to get to know the country on a nine-day tour over Christmas. On the Go Tours has a Festive King Tut tour that features Cairo, the Pyramids at Giza and an overnight train to Aswan. Then it’s on to a felucca cruise down the Nile towards Luxor and the Valley of the Kings. The tour costs from £792pp (saving nearly £200) with departure dates on 20, 21 and 24 December. The price includes accommodation, transport and some meals, but flights are extra.  It’s hard to resist the combination of Borneo rainforests, orangutans, going on a boat safari and chilling out in an eco-friendly luxury resort. Tropical Sky has a very tempting 10-night tour that includes a stay at secluded Gaya Island Resort and visits to an orang-utan rehabilitation centre. The starting price of £1,109pp includes flights and transfers for departures throughout March.  Once the February half-term holidays have come and gone, things get back to normal at ski resorts. Morzine is one of the most attractive villages within the Portes du Soleil ski domain, with direct links to neighbouring Avoriaz and Les Gets. Alpine Elements has a week’s half board at the central Hotel Les Dents Blanches from £764pp, departing 3 March. The price includes flights, transfers, breakfast, six evening meals with wine as well as afternoon tea.  While you’re waiting for Europe to warm up, head out to Cape Verde and soak up the sun in this Atlantic archipelago. Boa Vista is one of the most laid-back of the Cape Verde islands, and Orquidea Guest House is in a prime beachfront spot for lazy days surrounded by tropical gardens. Cape Verde Experience has a week at Orquidea Guest House from £1,149pp departing 5 March. The price includes flights, transfers and breakfast.  Mary Novakovich is editor at large at 101holidays.co.uk


theindependent--2019-12-24--10 of the best family holidays for 2020

10 of the best family holidays for 2020

There’s a mind-boggling amount of choice when it comes to taking the family away next year – city break, beach holiday, active fun, or even all the above. Here are a few ideas to get you started.  Sardinia’s southern coast has some of the island’s loveliest beaches, and you’re still within reach of day trips to the capital, Cagliari. The resort of Villasimius has fine sandy beaches, a dive centre and boat excursions to the island of Cavoli, but also has a lot on its doorstep, including pools and children’s clubs. Sardinian Places has a week at Residence Cormoran from £3,329 for two adults and two children, including flights, breakfast and car hire, for May departures.  Get to know Crete’s northern beaches and rugged interior from the vantage point of an attractive residence in the small fishing village of Panormos. Iliana Apartments, offered by Sunvil, are decked out in classically Greek blue and white and include a communal pool. It’s only a few minutes’ walk to the village and the beach. A week’s self-catering costs from £750pp and includes flights and transfers.  Combine city and countryside with a family self-drive holiday in Ontario. Canadian Sky has a nine-day break that takes in Toronto and Niagara Falls along with a few days’ mountain biking and ziplining in Blue Mountain resort near Georgian Bay. You’re not far from some of Ontario’s most beautiful natural areas, including the forests and lakes of Muskoka and Algonquin National Park. The starting price of £989pp includes flights, room-only accommodation and car hire.  With Croatia’s long Adriatic coastline and 1,244 islands, it’s hard to narrow down your choice. But a good bet is Brač, and not because it happens to be home to Croatia’s most famous beach – the white V-shaped Zlatni Rat. Avoid the crowds and head to the eastern tip of the island towards Sumartin, where the three-bedroom Villa Sinatra with Croatia Gems is close to the beach and has its own pool. A week’s rental costs from £2,152.  For children who can’t get enough of gladiators, a holiday in Rome will transport them to the ancient world. Along with the obvious tourist sights of the Colosseum and the Forum, you can rent a boat on the lake at the Villa Borghese and let them roam round the ancient ruins of Ostia Antica, an hour’s train ride away. Rooms in the friendly Suites Trastevere, which include access to a communal kitchen, start at £71, B&B.  Have the sandy beaches of Port de Pollenca within easy reach at El Cano, a three-bed townhouse offered by Vintage Travel. You’ll be only 200 yards from the beach, shops and restaurants, and only a short drive from the pretty cobbled streets and squares in the town of Pollenca. The house features a swimming pool and a shaded barbecue terrace in the garden, as well as an open-plan living/dining area. A week’s rental starts at £774 in April.  Rather than join the hordes along the Mediterranean, discover France’s Atlantic coast by staying in one of the country’s most appealing islands. Ile de Ré combines French seaside chic with a laid-back ambience, fabulous seafood and superb sandy beaches. Club together with another family to rent Maison Ile de Ré, a five-bedroom villa with a pool in the village of Bois-Plage-en-Ré. The beach is within walking distance, as is the village’s excellent food market. A week’s rental costs from £3,366 with French Connections.  For far-flung family adventure, it’ hard to beat Vietnam. Explore has an 11-day trip that gives a captivating introduction to the country, including a cooking class in Hanoi, a night in a junk in Halong Bay and a journey on the Reunification Express train from Hanoi to Hue. You’ll also go sea kayaking, cycling and cruising along the Mekong Delta. Prices start at £1,175pp and include accommodation, transfers and some meals, but flights are extra.  Despite its popularity, Bodrum has managed to retain its elegance and allure. This city on the Aegean coast not only has fine beaches and classy cafés, but also some riveting cultural sights including Bodrum Castle and an ancient theatre. Tui has an all-inclusive, seven-day holiday at the smart Diamond of Bodrum, which has sea views as well as its own pool, from £558pp. The price includes flights and is for May departures.  If you plan to stay closer to home, start thinking now about renting a cottage on the Isle of Wight before the best are snapped up. Holiday Cottages has Chine Cottage, a handsome four-bedroom house with a large garden and conservatory. It’s a short walk to the beach at Totland Bay, and it also offers direct access to the island’s coastal path. A week’s rental in May starts at £898.


theindependent--2019-12-24--Best cheap holidays and flights in Boxing Day sales

The Independent has scouted the best travel deals in the Boxing Day and January sales.  Tour operator Intrepid is offering 20 per cent off new and small-group itineraries booked between 1-13 January 2020. The offer is valid for travel before 31 August 2020.  Highlights include eight days exploring Northern Brazil’s mountains and beaches from £1,148pp (down from £1,435); nine days in Bali from £648pp (down from £810); and exploring the wild landscapes of Jordan, from the capital Amman to the otherworldly Wadi Rum, from £684pp (down from £855).  intrepidtravel.com  Package holiday giant Tui, which also owns brands First Choice and Marella Cruises, has plenty of Boxing Day travel deals.  It’s offering 14 nights all-inclusive in Mexico’s Riviera Maya for under £1,550pp; seven-night holidays to Agadir and Taghazout in Morocco for under £450pp; and seven-night all-inclusive trips to Hurghada, Egypt, for under £800pp.  Elsewhere, First Choice is offering seven nights in Paphos, Cyprus, for under £450pp all-inclusive; seven nights all-inclusive in San Jose Del Cabo in Mexico for under £900pp; and seven nights in Marrakech, Morocco, for under £400pp all-inclusive.  Meanwhile, Marella Cruises is offering its 14-night Enchanting Far East 1 cruise onboard Marella Discovery, which departs Langkawi in Malaysia for destinations including Penang, Kuala Lumpur, Koh Samui, Bangkok and Ho Chi Minh City, for under £1,500pp.  tui.co.uk  Low-cost airline Norwegian is selling transatlantic flights from £134.90 one-way (which includes Boston and New York JFK); flights to South America from £179.90 one-way; and flights to Europe for under £30 one-way in its Boxing Day sale.  The deals are based on select departures until 31 October 2020 and must be booked by 13 January 2020.  norwegian.com  British Airways’ annual January sale has deals on flights and holidays all over the world, including the popular two-night Europe city break offer for £99pp.  Long-haul deals include return flights to New York, San Diego and Johannesburg from £270, £329 and £539 respectively; while short-haul deals include flying business class to Salzburg or Bilbao for £159 and £170.  Holiday deals include flights and two nights in Prague, Venice, Berlin, Barcelona, Verona and Nice for just £99pp; as well as seven nights in Barbados for £529pp and Orlando for £399pp.  Singapore Airlines is offering return fares from the UK to destinations in Asia, Australia, New Zealand and the US from £375 return.  Highlights include flights from Manchester to Houston, Texas, for £375 return; London to Bangkok from £440 return; and London to Melbourne for £675 return.  singaporeair.com  Tour operator Kuoni is offering savings and room upgrades on luxury holidays all over the world in its sale.  Highlights include a saving of up to £1,170 per couple for trips to Dhigali, Maldives, based on departures in May and June 2020 (now £1,799pp); a saving of up to £906 per couple for holidays to Koh Samui, Thailand, valid for departures in May and June 2020 (now £1,349pp); and a saving of £607 per couple on trips to Antigua in September 2020 (now £1,599pp).  kuoni.co.uk  The Ski Solutions January sale, which starts on 27 December, has deals including a 25 per cent saving (£605pp) on a week-long trip from 11 January at the luxury Tschuggen Grand Hotel in Switzerland; 32 per cent off (working out at £420pp) trips to the Mount Royal Hotel in Banff, Canada; and free ski hire on a luxury four-night ski break to Courmayeur in Italy, departing 6 February, at a cost of £725pp (down from £825pp).  skisolutions.com  Prestige Holidays is offering 50 per cent off holidays to Bermuda in its “Pink Sale”, valid for travel throughout the year when booked by 31 January 2020. Highlights including a saving of £1,326 per couple at Hamilton Princess & Beach Club, which now costs £1,972pp for a week departing 24 March 2020.  prestigeholidays.co.uk  Emerald Waterways is offering savings of up to £1,200pp on 2020 European river cruises and 2020/21 southeast Asia river cruises and land tours when its sale launches on 27 December.   emeraldwaterways.co.uk  Save up to 20 per cent on 300,000 seats and get up to £200 off beach holidays in the easyJet winter sale.  Customers can save up to £100 per adult on seven-, 10-, 11- and 14-night breaks to a variety of destinations including Croatia, Italy, Spain, Montenegro, Greece, Turkey, Morocco and Portugal.  The sale runs until 30 January for travel between 30 January and 2 July for flight-only bookings, and between 1 April and 31 October for holiday bookings.  easyjet.com  Virgin Atlantic has discounted fares across the whole network, with flights starting from £235pp and flight and hotel packages from £369pp.  Best available fares include Heathrow to Boston and New York from £260 return; Heathrow to Tel Aviv from £255 return; and Heathrow to Los Angeles from £297 return.  virginatlantic.com  Family holiday tour operator MagicBreaks is offering a range of offers for attractions including Disneyland Paris and Walt Disney World Resort in Florida in its “Mega Sale”, which begins on 26 December and runs until 12 February 2020.  For example, customers who book a Disneyland Paris or Les Villages Nature Paris holiday will receive offers including a free family cinema pass, free £25 Disney Store gift card and free upgrade to Standard Premier on Eurostar packages.  magicbreaks.co.uk


theindependent--2019-12-27--Best last-minute holiday deals for January, from Italy to Sri Lanka

Sun, sea, sand – or snow? Get over the post-Christmas slump by packing off somewhere hot in January, or hitting the slopes when ski resorts are much quieter.  And if you’re planning ahead on an April or Easter holiday, these ideas might inspire you.  Enjoy the beauty of the Matterhorn from the Italian side of the mountain in the resort of Cervinia, which is considerably cheaper than staying in Zermatt across the Swiss border. Inghams has seven nights’ B&B at the Hotel Punta Maquignaz, a cosy hotel in the centre of Cervinia, from £459pp, saving £400pp. The price includes flights, transfers and breakfast, and is for an 11 January departure.  January in Seville feels more like spring than winter, especially with temperatures around the mid-teens. It’s perfect city break weather, with fewer tourists getting in the way of the city’s top sights including the Real Alcazar and the wondrous cathedral. La Casa del Maestro is a warm little hotel in the Barrio Santa Cruz, with a lovely roof terrace to soak up city views. With i-escape, rooms start at £58pp per night, including breakfast.  See two of South America’s greatest cities, along with Iguazu Falls, on this eight-night group tour with Cox & Kings. You’ll start with a few days getting to know Buenos Aires before jetting off to Iguazu Falls for a couple of days. Finish with a few days getting into the swing of things in Rio do Janeiro at the Belmond Copacabana Palace. The starting price of £2,295pp includes flights, transfers and B&B five-star accommodation, departing 30 January.  Tourists have been slowly coming back to Sri Lanka since the terrorist attacks in April, which the country desperately needs. On the southernmost coast is Koggala Beach, which is handy for visits to Galle if you can tear yourself away from this scenic beach. Mercury Holidays has an all-inclusive six-night holiday at the Koggala Beach Hotel from £865pp, including flights and transfers, departing 18 January.  If you’re planning a late-season ski trip, book before 13 January and save 20 per cent off a week’s rental at Les Chalets du Gypse in Saint-Martin-de-Belleville. This pretty village is one of the most appealing parts of the Three Valleys ski domain, and this very smart residence is right on the slopes and has an indoor pool and a spa. Peak Retreats has a one-bedroom apartment for £1,394 for the week of 11 April, including Eurotunnel crossing.  Time it right and you could end up in Athens during Orthodox Easter, which in 2020 falls on 19 April. Feast on superb views of the Acropolis from the rooftop restaurant at St George Lycabettus, a luxury hotel in the fashionable Kolonati district of Athens. Kirker Holidays has three-night breaks throughout April from £896pp, including flights, private transfers, breakfast and tickets to the Acropolis Museum.  Look forward to springtime hikes in the Lake District, especially if you stay at the Bothy offered by Lakeland Cottage Company. This dog-friendly, one-bedroom stone cottage has been beautifully kitted out and is just outside Windermere, making it a handy base for hikes. A week’s rental from 3 April costs £737.  Mary Novakovich is editor at large at 101holidays.co.uk


themanchestereveningnews--2019-05-04--10 of the best family days out near Manchester this May bank holiday

If you're lucky enough to have the time off then you'll probably want to make the most of this bank holiday weekend.  Traffic aside, there's nothing quite like a road trip to make it feel like a proper day out.  We're always telling you about things to see and do in Manchester - and we've got a whole host of weekend ideas here - but we also know families don't mind travelling a bit of a distance for a decent day out.  That's why we've come up with our list of 10 of the best days out within a two-hour drive. Hopefully it'll give you some inspiration.  Whether you fancy a trip up the tower, or spending the day whizzing around the rides of the Pleasure Beach, you can't beat Blackpool for a bank holiday day out.  The tower is celebrating its 125th anniversary this year and there's loads to see and do in and around the landmark.  From the much-loved circus and Blackpool Eye - a thick glass panel you can stand on 380ft in the air - to the dungeon and the waxworks of Madame Tussauds, there's something for kids of all ages.  The Big Ticket gives access to all six attractions and is valid for 90 days, so you don't have to rush round them all in the same day. It costs £46 for adults, £33.50 for children and £8.95 for under threes.  Blackpool Pleasure Beach is open from 10am across the bank holiday weekend, with earliest ride closing times 6pm.  As well as Nickelodeon Land for the younger ones, there are 10 rollercoasters to choose from, including its newest addition Icon - the UK’s first double launch rollercoaster - which opened last year.  Mancunians regularly make the trip to Staffordshire to enjoy the thrills of Alton Towers and little ones have more reason than ever to visit this weekend.  Families can party with with their favourite characters as CBeebies Land celebrates its fifth birthday.  In what's billed as 'a fun-packed birthday event for families to enjoy', from Saturday to Monday, fans of CBeebies will get the chance to dance along with some of their favourite characters from the hit TV channel as they come together for a very special live performance.  Guests will also get to take part in a special Birthday Treat Trail and receive a birthday badge souvenir reward as they explore CBeebies Land.  The ‘CBeebies Land Birthday Celebration’ marks five years since it opened.  A huge birthday cake will greet guests as they enter the theme park and at the end of each day over the bank holiday weekend, costume characters from across CBeebies Land will come together for 'a unique birthday-themed live performance'.  The event comes after CBeebies recently welcomed some new additions in the form of the ‘Teletubbies Big Band Live Show' and the new Peter Rabbit Hippity Hop ride, featuring the mischievous bunny Peter Rabbit and his friends Benjamin and Lily.  Last month also saw the opening of Alton Towers' new Stargazing Pods, offering a cheaper option for families to stay over.  To find out more about the activities this weekend, or to book tickets, visit the website here.  What child doesn't want to see animals? Luckily you haven't got far to travel to experience Knowsley Safari.  A brand new tiger habitat opened at the attraction last year, giving visitors the chance to get closer to the tigers than ever before.  Sisters Sinda and Bira moved in to their new home, which opened last May, and features full-length glass panes that allow visitors unique, up close viewing opportunities.  Guests can immerse themselves in the Russian-themed habitat and learn all about the Amur tiger; their habitat, threats to their survival and conservation.  While at the attraction families can also journey through the camels, buffalo, antelope and more and get an up-close experience as you drive through lion territory.  You can also stay dry at the indoor sea lion display, although there's no guarantees there won't be any splashing going on at the front.  Tickets cost £17.50 for adults, £13.50 for children and under threes go free. You can save 10% if you book online .  Just two hours away on the North Wales coast is Llandudno and it's hosting a huge, free Victorian Extravaganza over the bank holiday weekend.  There's a circus, a daily parade, competitions, traction engines, fairground stalls, rides and shows and much more over the three days.  The Victorian circus show is under a mini-top - with three shows daily. Organisers promise families will 'laugh, gasp and be amazed as our stars light up and transport you to the heart of a Victorian Circus.'  The bank holiday extravaganza has been going for 34 years in the seaside resort, a favourite for holidaymakers from around the UK.  There are chances for visitors to get into the spirit of the weekend by taking part in a Victorian dress competition and being part of the daily parade - with prizes given out for the best-dressed ladies, gentlemen, children under 10 and families.  The parade happens at midday each day, full of vintage cars and trucks, entertainers and people dressed in Victorian outfits. It starts outside the Holy Trinity Church, heads down Madoc Street, to Gloddaeth Avenue, and then to the promenade.  Also on over the long weekend is a transport festival with hundreds of vintage cars, trucks, buses, bikes, and traction engines taking place in Bodafon Fields, the other side of Llandudno.  It's a separate event, but held in conjunction with the Victorian Extravaganza, and at 6pm on the Saturday and Sunday nights, vehicles will head out on a road run - on Saturday, they create a spectacular sight as they drive to Conwy, a few miles away, and around the walled town. On Sunday they head to Marine Drive, the private road that goes around the Great Orme, and take a trip around there.  There is a charge to get into the Transport festival - £7.50 for adults and £2 for children - but the Victorian Extravaganza is free.  You can find out more about the Llandudno Transport Festival here and the Victorian Extravaganza here.  You can also get more information about the weekend, and places to stay, from Visit Llandudno.  Find out more about the event here.  Chester Zoo attracts families from miles around and the bank holiday is the perfect opportunity to pay a visit.  Home to 21,000 animals in 125 acres of award-winning zoological gardens you can see why it pulls in close to 2m visitors a year.  You can check out the venue's new Madagascar habitat, featuring the attraction's first ever 'walk-though' primate experience.  Visitors have the chance to see lemurs jumping across the path in front of them or swinging in the trees above them as they make their way through part of the new zone.  The UK's first alpine rollercoaster is one of many reasons to make the trip to Zip World at Betws-y-Coed in North Wales.  It might be a two-hour drive from Manchester, but it's worth it to have a go on the Fforest Coaster, which takes thrill seekers through stunning woodland mountains, speeding and darting through Snowdonia National Park.  Visitors are strapped into their sledge with the simple controls meaning they can take control of how fast they go.  There's lots more fun to be had at the attraction too, including Treetop Nets, 60ft up in the trees and available for ages three plus; the Skyride, which swings four people at once 80ft in the air, 1.2m height restriction; and for even bigger daredevils the Plummet, where two people drop through a trap door over 100ft high to experience the closest thing to freefall. Again the minimum height for that is 1.2m.  The coaster costs £39 for a shared sled and you get three rides, nets are from £13 and the Plummet is £15 per person or £20 a pair. Book online.  There's loads to see and do at Martin Mere Wetland Centre.  Depending on the season you can spot everything from ducklings to migrating swans and there's lots of fun to be had with a muddy meadow and play areas for kids of all ages.  You can try your hand at canoeing too, between 11am and 4pm. And there's a guided boat option if anyone doesn’t feel like paddling.  On top of that there are daily feeds and talks including a chance to meet the site's three cheeky Asian otters. You watch them forage, swim, rest, sleep and bath in the sunshine.  There's a new Pond Zone open too, featuring everything you need to get pond dipping and uncover incredible underwater life.  There are nets, trays, magnifying glasses, identity charts, and the friendly Learning Team are on-hand to help.  Admission is £13 for adults, £6.95 for children, under fours free, or a family ticket for two adults and two children £33.90. For more details visit the WWT website .  Southport's another great day out for families.  There are rides galore at Southport Pleasureland, which is open 11am until 6pm across the long weekend.  Rides cost from £1 each, or you can buy a Fun Card, which gives you extra rides for free. These start from £25 each and can be bought online.  And if you don't have any cash to splash there's a great free wooden play area on the seafront which will keep little ones happy for hours - and work up an appetite for that chippy tea before you head home.  It's not just Chester Zoo that's worth the drive from Manchester.  Families are just as eager to pay a visit to Blackpool Zoo too.  The zoo is also home to tigers, gorillas, lions, flamingos, penguins and lots more and it's a manageable size for little ones to make their way round it in one day.  Last April it opened up its new multi-million pound Project Elephant Base Camp.  The new facility combines the UK's largest indoor elephant house with a huge outdoor habitat and an immersive themed visitor experience 'through Asia'.  Elsewhere, there's a Sea Lion pool and a Gorilla Mountain and just next to the elephant camp is Dinosaur Safari - where you can make your way around a trail of lifesize dino statues.  The zoo is open daily from 10am except for Christmas Day, with closing times varying throughout the year. Tickets are cheaper if you book in advance online where they cost £13.99 for adults, £10.99 for children aged three to 15, or £43.99 for a family of four.  It might not seem like the most obvious choice if the sun's not shining, but have you ever heard a child say it's too cold for ice cream?  Plus the indoor sand and water play Honeycomb Canyon - the largest in Europe - is now heated and there is also a soft play area too.  It's also a great time to avoid the crowds that descend on The Ice Cream Farm in peak summer.  Entry is free and visitors either pay per activity (around £4.50 each) or get a play pass starting from £20. This gets them five plays at £4 each.  The more you spend on a pass the cheaper it gets - so a £30 pass gets you 10 plays at £3 each, or a £40 pass gets 20 plays at £2 each.  Play passes have no expiry date and can be used between multiple children, so if you don't use the full value in one visit, you can use it another time.  There's obviously ice cream to enjoy too - more than 50 flavours in fact.  The famous blue building that housed the original parlour has been transformed into The Pantry - a 180-seater food and drink area, providing a bright and contemporary environment.


thesun--2019-01-10--Cheap Tunisia holidays for 2019 find the best all-inclusive hotels and flight deals

Cheap Tunisia holidays for 2019 – find the best all-inclusive hotels and flight deals

BRIT holidaymakers are flocking back to the North African country of Tunisia and it's anticipated to be one of the most popular holiday destinations for 2019.  Located between the Med and Sahara Desert, Brits go for the sun, sand and sea - as well as the low prices and the fact that it is just a short three-hour flight away.  Tunisia has a year-long warm, mild climate and you can expect plenty of sunshine from May to October, often peaking at 35C during the summer.  Planning your 2019 beach break? Read on for our round-up of the best Tunisia resorts and the cheapest all-inclusive holiday deals for your trip.    With a 13th-century old town, old Medina and castle, Old Hammamet has a traditional feel with bustling souks and lush botanical gardens - while neighbouring Yasmine Hammamet is more modern and European with attractive bar and restaurant-lined boulevards.  Both areas boast beautiful white sandy beaches and plenty of places to stay for couples and families alike - plus the 'Carthageland Hammamet' theme park to keep the kids busy.  Book an all-inclusive one-week Hammamet beach break with Love Holidays from £284pp - including flights and hotel (based on travelling in March 2019) - book here.  Book a Yasmine Hammamet escape with Travel Supermarket for seven nights all-inclusive from £380pp. Book here.  The 'Pearl of the Sahel', Sousse boasts quality beaches, a 9th-century Great Mosque and a UNESCO-listed Medina.  Neighbouring Port El Kantaoui offers up entertainment, nightlife and activities such as water sports and golf.  Stay at either resort to get the best of both worlds, with miles of white sandy, beaches stretching in-between the two towns.  Book an all-inclusive one-week holiday in Sousse from £248pp (based on travel in March 2019) with Love Holidays and in Port el Kantaoui from £248pp on Travel Supermarket.  Found on Tunisia's north-eastern coast, Monastir has great beaches and tons of water sports to try - from kayaking to scuba diving.  Plus, the town has an attractive marina and old fishing port, brimming with fresh seafood for you to sample at one of the many waterside restaurants.  There's a great choice of hotels here for an all-inclusive stay - book a seven-night break from £221pp with Love Holidays (based on travel in April 2019) or from £275pp with Thomas Cook (based on travel in March 2019).  There are plenty of choices to make with breaks away - even after you've decided on a destination. Here's how you can ensure you're getting a good deal BOOK LAST MINUTE If you're able to look last minute you'll often find good deals, as companies look to encourage bookings and fulfill availability. SPECIAL OFFERS Great offers depend on travel companies' willingness to cut prices, but some companies maintain a special offers section - like Jet2Holidays. Deal sites like Travelzoo are also worth checking. BE FLEXIBLE Flexibility of travel dates and connections can save you money. As can travelling outside of peak periods, or - if not travelling with children - outside school holidays. USE DISCOUNTS Find discount codes with The Sun Vouchers, including for TUI, Expedia, First Choice, Lastminute, and Jet2Holidays. SET ALERTS Airfarewatchdog and Skyscanner provides alerts on air fares, so you can get flights at their cheapest. Kayak offers alerts for flights and hotels.  Get a taste of idyllic island life in Djerba - offering the most peaceful and relaxing Tunisian beach holiday  Looking for a more peaceful place to stay in Tunisia? The island of Djerba offers a quieter alternative to the livelier resort town in Tunisia.  Expect whitewashed villages, palm-tree-lined beaches and desert landscapes in this laid-back beach destination.  You can relax and unwind on the white sandy beach or crank it up a notch with a Sahara Desert safari or kitesurfing lesson.  The nearest airports to Djerba are Gabes, Sfax El Maou and Monastir and then you can take a ferry to the island.  Book hotels from £94 for seven nights on Booking.com and from £28pp per night B&B basis on Travel Republic (for Travel in April/May 2019).  If you're not set on Tunisia, find more beach break inspiration for your summer 2019 trip here.


thesun--2019-02-19--Hols from 950 When is the best time to book my 2019 holiday and why should I book with The Sun

Hols from £9.50: When is the best time to book my 2019 holiday and why should I book with The Sun?

SAY goodbye to winter and get set for spring with the next chance to book your 2019 bargain getaway with The Sun’s Hols from £9.50.  You can choose from 260 top parks across the UK, France, Spain, Italy, Holland, Switzerland, Austria and Croatia in our unbeatable holiday deal. Here is the best time to book your stay:  Mid-week breaks are the best time to book. Not only is that when the parks are quietest but there's also more availability. Plus, if you book mid-week, you'll get a fourth night free.  Choose from comfortable caravans, chalets, apartments, tents, lodges and even bungalows or cottages from 260 parks across UK, France, Spain, Italy, Holland, Switzerland, Austria and Croatia.  How to book my fab Hols from £9.50? All you need to do is collect SEVEN Sun Savers codes or SEVEN tokens or codewords printed in The Sun. The next round starts between Saturday, February 23 and Saturday, March 9. If you’re collecting Sun Savers codes: ENTER YOUR CODES HERE If you're collecting tokens or codewords use the booking form or book online at thesun.co.uk/holidays Price per person based on four sharing. Subject to availability. Terms and conditions and date restrictions apply. For full T&Cs see thesun.co.uk/holidays.  All you need to do is collect SEVEN tokens, codewords or Sun Savers codes from those printed in The Sun between Saturday, February 23 and Saturday, March 9.  If you’re collecting Sun Savers codes, enter your codes here!  We guarantee that the price of your Holiday from £9.50, with service charge, entertainment/clubroom passes and any peak date supplement added, will be the best price available for the exact same holiday at your chosen holiday park and holiday date in the same accommodation type.  If you find it cheaper and tell us within 28 days of making your Sun booking,we’ll refund you the difference plus £10!  Full t&cs on the 'Best Price Guaranteed' are available here - club950.co.uk/terms/


thesun--2019-04-04--Easter Holidays 2019 The best family activities in the UK with deals to Legoland Thorpe Park and m

Easter Holidays 2019: The best family activities in the UK with deals to Legoland, Thorpe Park and more

READY for some family fun during the Easter Holidays?  From Thorpe Park and Go Ape adventures, to Safari drive experiences  - we've found something for every family.  The UK Easter Bank Holidays falls on the 19th (Good Friday), and the 22nd of April (Easter Monday), extending a normal two-day weekend to four full days.  It's the perfect excuse for a short getaway before the summer, but if you're staying put, there's plenty to do as well.  If you are in the search of the best family activities for the long weekend, check out our selected options below.  It's a perfect opportunity to try something completely new or things you've always wanted to do.  If we're talking about some real fun, Thorpe Park is at the very top of the list.  Located just outside of London, the park features over 30 rides, live events, the Thorpe Shark Hotel and an extensive food court.  And if you book an Easter break at Thorpe Park resort, you'll get a second day's free entry.  If you've always wanted to try horse riding, here's your chance with this Buy A Gift bargain deal.  You'll get an hour-long experience in your chosen location, guided by a trained professional instructor.  From the basics of halt, walking and trotting to hacking through the British countryside, there's something for every level.  If you are looking for an active outdoors activity especially designed for kids, this Buy A Gift package has got you covered.  Choose from 17 locations across the UK and let your kids experience outdoors adventure in the trees.  An ultimate LEGO adventure awaits with this bargain deal at LEGOLAND Windsor from Virgin Experience Days.  The park features over 55 rides, live shows and attractions with its own LEGO themed hotel.  A lunch of burger, fries and a soft drink is included in the package for two adults and two children.  Is your family a fan of nature, animals and seeking of a little bit of excitement?  This Virgin Experience Days deal gives all of that and more: a five mile safari drive encountering lions, antelopes and rhinos - and 700 other exotic animals in the park.  Knowsley Safari Park also features a zoo where events and attractions are taking place.  Any foodie knows that Gordon Ramsay's kitchen is a real treat.  This Virgin Experience Days deal is the one to make the whole family happy: while a junior chef is mastering his skills with the Bread Street Kitchen's resident chefs, parents will enjoy a relaxing brunch with a glass of Champagne.  Discover the world's most incredible shots, from the National Geographic travel photo contest.  Are you a yoga fan and love animals? Check out Lake District's hotel which launches 'Lemoga' classes, for practising yoga among some cheeky lemurs.  In need of a cheap holiday gateway? Here are some holiday deals that won't break the bank.  This article and any featured products have been independently chosen by The Sun journalists. All recommendations within the article are informed by expert editorial opinion. If you click a link and buy a product we may earn revenue: this helps to support The Sun, and in no way affects our recommendations.


thesun--2019-04-20--From Dorset to Norfolk explore best UK locations for your next family holiday

From Dorset to Norfolk, explore best UK locations for your next family holiday

IF you are planning a short break don't think too far.  We choose the perfect UK locations and skip airport delays for a relaxing trip closer to home.  ACTING Lifestyle Editor Emma Ledger and boyfriend Alex hit the footpaths along the county’s coastline.  THE PAD: It doesn’t get more quintessentially English than the super-cosy one-bed Nutmeg Cottage – think Cameron Diaz’s house-swap in The Holiday. There’s a wood-burning fire, stained-glass windows and the owners even leave a welcome bottle of wine. Located in the sleepy village of Osmington, you’re just 200m from the friendly local, The Sly Fox.  EXPLORE: The stunning Jurassic Coast – 95 miles long and 185 million years old – is right on your doorstep. Walk out of Osmington and follow the footpath across cow fields for half an hour to be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Channel. Just 20 minutes by car is the famous walk from Lulworth Cove to Durdle Door, a natural limestone arch jutting out into the sea.  REFUEL: Perfectly positioned on your nearest walking route is the huge Smuggler’s Inn. Serving up Badger beers, which have been brewed in the Dorset countryside since 1777, it also does a mean Ploughman’s, £8.50 (Smugglersinnosmingtonmills.co.uk). Head west along the coast for the must-visit Beach Hive Cafe (Hivebeachcafe.co.uk). With far-reaching views across Chesil Beach, it’s the perfect kid-friendly location to enjoy local seafood or just a cuppa. Try the ultimate fish and chips, £15, (there’s also a half-portion for kids), or there’s a whole crab for £20.  DON’T MISS: The charming village of Abbotsbury sits in a secluded valley surrounded by fields. There are cute galleries and antique shops and the scones at The Old School House are worth the journey alone. Pull on your hiking boots to trek up the hilltop to St Catherine’s Chapel, free to enter, for panoramic views.  BOOK IT: Nutmeg Cottage sleeps two and costs from £89.50 per night (Dorsetcoastalcottages.com).  EDITOR In Chief Sinead McIntyre, husband Alistair, twins Riley and Harris, seven, and Daisy the dog head to the wilds of Norfolk.  THE PAD: The converted Whitehands Farm Barn on a quiet country lane has everything you need for a relaxing stay, including three en-suites, a hot tub and a large, secure garden – perfect for our crazy spaniel puppy. The twins loved the hot tub so much we had to ban them from getting in before 9am. A welcome hamper awaits, while owners Colin and Mary live nearby and are on hand if needed.  EXPLORE: Head to quaint seaside town Cromer for a walk along the pebble beach under dramatic cliffs. Browse the independent shops – Artyfax sells unique jewellery (Artyfax.com), while The Norfolk Food and Drink Co has a great selection of local gins. Join the queue for fish and chips at renowned No 1 Cromer, £7.70 or £4.50 for a child’s portion (No1cromer.com). Prefer a sandier beach? Head to stunning Holkham. Crowned Countryfile Beach Of The Year 2018, it’s accessed via a fragrant pine forest, and keep your eyes peeled for seals!  REFUEL: The charming village of Old Buckenham is a scenic 10-minute stroll from the cottage and the dog-friendly Old Gamekeeper has delicious pub grub. Try the scampi and chips, £11.50, and finish with the gorgeous home-made cheesecake, £6 (Thegamekeeperoldbuckenham.co.uk). A short drive away in New Buckenham, check out The Inn On The Green (Innonthegreenfreehouse.com). Ribeye steak served with chips and onion rings, £21, is delicious. And the two-course kids’ menu, £6.95, is great value – you can’t go wrong with sausage and chips followed by ice cream.  DON’T MISS: Explore Norwich’s Tudor history with a walk through Elm Hill and a visit to Norwich Castle, which is home to many Tudor exhibits including a stool used to duck suspected witches. Tickets cost £9.50 for adults and £8.10 for children (Museums.norfolk.gov.uk). And make sure you take a trip to 950-year-old Norwich Market – one of the oldest and largest in the country.  BOOK IT: Whitehands Farm Barn sleeps six and costs from £73 per night (Sykescottages.co.uk).  WRITER Lucy Quick, husband Andy, daughter Nina, two, and grandparents Fiona, Henry, Sandra and Trevor lap up lakeside luxury.  THE PAD: Set on a working farm, Otter Tarn is one of six lodges at Toad Mire, all of which sleep six in three en-suite bedrooms. With woodland and lakeside views, these idyllic pads are equipped with every luxury, including monsoon showers, wood-burning stoves, and private hot tubs. Belted Galloway cows roam the nearby fields and there are over 150 bird and bat boxes dotted around, so pack your binoculars. In the summer, there is a boat available for guests to rent on nearby Lake Windermere.  EXPLORE: The 20-minute circular walk around Otter Tarn is perfect for little ones – if you’re lucky, you’ll spot swans, cormorants and otters. More adventurous explorers can hike half an hour up to nearby Lookout Point to take in the views of the Langdale Pikes range. Coniston is a 30-minute drive and there you’ll find picturesque Tarn Hows lake, offering an accessible circular 1.6-mile walk with mountain views (Nationaltrust.org.uk).  REFUEL: Just three miles away, the town of Cartmel is full of shops and pretty pubs serving delicious fare and local ales. Over in Coniston, award-winning pub The Yewdale Inn is in the town centre and serves bowls of steaming soup, £5.50, and a variety of toasties from £7 – but make sure you save room for the sticky toffee pudding, £6.50 (Yewdaleinn.com).  DON’T MISS: The Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway, free, is a six-minute drive from the house and the perfect spot to learn about locomotives and let kids exhaust themselves in the adventure playground. From April until November you can ride a steam train to Lakeside Station, £2.90 for children and £4.40 for adults (Lakesiderailway.co.uk).  BOOK IT: Lodges at Toad Mire sleep six and cost from £118 per night, no dogs allowed (Sykescottages.co.uk).


thesun--2019-04-30--Cheap Costa Brava holidays for summer 2019 where to stay and the best deals for your trip

Cheap Costa Brava holidays for summer 2019 – where to stay and the best deals for your trip

IF you're hunting for a great value, short-haul holiday destination, Spain's 'Wild Coast' could be just what you're looking for.  One of the prettiest pieces of coastline in the country, discover long sandy beaches, secluded coves and quaint seaside villages.  Just a two-hour flight from the UK and with a mild climate, reaching highs of 30C in the summer months, it's not surprising the Costa Brava continues to be such a popular holiday spot.  From the golden sands of Lloret de Mar to the authentic Catalan culture of Tossa de Mar - plus the bright lights of Barcelona just a short journey away - find out where to go in the Costa Brava with our round-up of the best bits.  One of the Costa Brava's liveliest resorts, Lloret de Mar is known for its many restaurants, bars and clubs but it also has a rich history dating back thousands of years, transforming itself from traditional fishing village to top tourist destination.  From the blue flag beaches and water sports to Catalan Gothic Churches and fairytale castles; there's plenty to keep you entertained here.  If you're planning a family break, the kids will love the Water World water park and Gnomo World fun park.  Find cheap Lloret de Mar holiday deals with On the Beach from £154pp - including flights and hotel - and Lastminute.com from £140pp - based on a week's stay in June.  If you're looking for a more peaceful place to stay, head ten miles south of Lloret de Mar to Pineda de Mar, at the southern end of the Costa Brava.  Expect to find a stunning beach, pretty whitewashed buildings and an authentic Catalan feel in this pretty Mediterranean town.  Get the best of both worlds here with a relaxing break but still enough restaurants, bars and shops for everything you'll need on your trip.  Find great value holiday deals for Pineda de Mar with Love Holidays from £181pp and On the Beach from £210pp - for seven nights in June 2019.  Another laid-back beach holiday destination, Santa Susanna has a trio of beautiful beaches where you can try your hand at water sports or find a secluded cove to soak up the Spanish sunshine.  There's a charming old town with cobbled streets and a great range of restaurants - from traditional tapas and seafood to beach-side burgers.  For nature-lovers, the Montnegre Nature Park features stunning mountains, where you can hike or mountain bike.  Find cheap Santa Susanna holiday deals with Lastminute.com from £140pp - based on a week's holiday in June.  History-buffs will love Tossa de Mar's historic old town - the only medieval town left on the Catalan coast - with whitewashed buildings and cobbled streets.  There's also an ancient medieval castle to explore in this popular Costa Brava destination.  The town also boasts blue flag beaches, including the main beach - Playa Gran - where you'll find soft sand that slopes gently into the sea.  Find cheap holidays to Tossa Del Mar at On the Beach from £193pp and Love Holidays from £199pp - based on travel in June for a week-long trip.  Looking for a family-friendly Costa Brava spot? Calella boasts beautiful beaches, historical sights and the Port Aventura theme park and Water World just a bus ride away.  Calella has three sandy beaches with a range of water sports on offer - from windsurfing to sailing.  There are also plenty of sights to keep the whole family busy, including the ruins at Guard Towers Las Torretas and the lighthouse with ocean views.  Find cheap holidays to Calella de Costa at easyJet Holidays from £144pp or Love Holidays from £154pp - for a seven-night holiday in June 2019.  If you're looking for some more summer holiday inspiration, try Tunisia with our round-up of all-inclusive deals for 2019 here.


thesun--2019-05-07--All-inclusive Lanzarote holidays for summer 2019 where to go and the best deals

All-inclusive Lanzarote holidays for summer 2019 – where to go and the best deals

BRITISH holiday makers continue to flock to Lanzarote year-on-year for the beautiful beaches, unusual attractions and huge choice of bars and restaurants.  Expect stunning, otherworldly volcanic landscapes and year-round warm weather on this Canary island, located 125km from the north coast of Africa.  If you're not sure which resort to pick, read on for our round-up of the top four holiday spots on the island and how to find the best all-inclusive deals for your stay.    The most popular resort in Lanzarote, Puerto del Carmen features a trio of top-notch beaches, including the biggest beach on the island.  The blue-flag awarded Playa Grande has golden sands, calm waters and plenty of sunbeds and facilities, making it a great choice for families.  Plus, the Rancho Texas animal park, with dolphins, sea lions, pony rides and splash zone, makes a great day out for the kids.  Puerto del Carmen is also known for its vibrant nightlife - from numerous cocktail and karaoke bars to nightclubs and casinos.  Head to the main strip, Avenida de las Playas, for the liveliest night scene - or find quieter bars and authentic seafood restaurants in the old town for a more laid-back evening.  Find all-inclusive Puerto del Carmen holiday deals for June 2019 with On the Beach from £299pp and with Love Holidays from £327pp.  With numerous white-sandy beaches and a cooling, east coast breeze, Costa Teguise boasts the best waves for windsurfing and body boarding.  Water sports addicts tend to head for Cucharas Beach, while Playa Bastian has calmer waves and is popular with families.  There's something for everyone here with the Costa Teguise Aquapark, mountain-biking trails and an 18-hole golf course and driving range.  There are many big hotel complexes with world-class facilities and pools - as well as numerous restaurants serving everything from traditional tapas to international cuisine.  Find all-inclusive summer holiday deals for June 2019 in the Costa Teguise with Travel Supermarket from £298pp and with Thomas Cook from £404pp.  Located on the southern tip of Lanzarote,  Playa Blanca boasts a trio of family-friendly beaches, including two with Blue Flag status.  The warm, turquoise waters and soft sand of Playa Dorada are the main draw for holiday-makers, with plenty of child-friendly facilities and restaurants close by.  Plus, the Marina Rubicon area has a sophisticated vibe featuring upmarket hotels, designer boutiques and a great selection of restaurants and bars.  Known to be one of the best beaches in Spain, the stunning Papagayo Beach, part of the Los Ajaches nature reserve, is just a few kilometres from Playa Blanca, and if you're able to make the trip - it's well worth it.  Find all-inclusive Playa Blanca holiday deals for June 2019 with Love Holidays from £356pp and with On the Beach from £271pp.  There are plenty of choices to make with breaks away - even after you've decided on a destination. Here's how you can ensure you're getting a good deal BOOK LAST MINUTE If you're able to look last minute you'll often find good deals, as companies look to encourage bookings and fulfill availability. SPECIAL OFFERS Great offers depend on travel companies' willingness to cut prices, but some companies maintain a special offers section - like Jet2Holidays. Deal sites like Travelzoo are also worth checking. BE FLEXIBLE Flexibility of travel dates and connections can save you money. As can travelling outside of peak periods, or - if not travelling with children - outside school holidays. USE DISCOUNTS Find discount codes with The Sun Vouchers, including for TUI, Expedia, First Choice, Lastminute, and Jet2Holidays. SET ALERTS Airfarewatchdog and Skyscanner provides alerts on air fares, so you can get flights at their cheapest. Kayak offers alerts for flights and hotels.  Located close to Puerto del Carmen and the Lanzarote capital, Arecife, but much quieter and more laid-back, you can escape the crowds at this exclusive resort, created by Jose Calero.  Enjoy the many sophisticated restaurants, cafes and bars, as well as plenty of designer boutiques, at the marina known as "Millionaire's Harbour".  There isn't a beach at Puerto Calero but the trio at Puerto del Carmen - Playa Grande, Chica and Pocillos - are just ten minutes down the road.  Enjoy a luxury base here from which you can easily explore the staggering Timanfaya National Park and the Lanzarote capital, Arecife.  Find all-inclusive Puerto Calero summer holiday deals for June 2019 with Lastminute.com from £477pp and with Love Holidays from £632pp.  If you're looking for some more summer holiday inspiration, try Tunisia with our round-up of all-inclusive deals for summer 2019 here.


thesun--2019-05-21--Best family activities for May Bank Holiday including Thorpe Park and Legoland

MAY Bank Holiday marks the start of half term for most schools in the UK.  If you've left the planning to the last minute, not to worry - we've rounded up some of the best activities you and your family can do together to make the most of the free time.  Bank Holidays can be a busy time as places are often completely booked up.  That is, if you haven't struggled with coming up with new and exciting things to do with the family.  So Sun Online Travel has come up with the list of the best family activities and attractions throughout the UK that you can book at the last minute.  From real adventure to team experiences, we've got something to suit every family and budget.    If you're after a thrilling experience, a theme park is the way to go.  Situated just outside London, Thorpe Park is famous for its iconic rides such as Derren Brown's Ghost Train, Saw - The Ride and Mr Monkey's Banana Ride.  This year, the park celebrates its 40th birthday with the opening of three new attractions: GAMEFX, Jungle Escape, and BounceZilla.  If you and your family decide to head to the Thorpe Park this weekend, look out for a special Luna Cinema with some exclusive film accesses. Find out more here.  Do you have a little wizard in the house who is crazy about Harry Potter stuff? Who isn't!  This Bank Holiday is a great opportunity to get your tourist hat out, put some sunglasses on and dive into the magical world of Harry Potter creations.  The Leaky Cauldron, the Gringott's Bank and Platform 9¾  are only a few locations that this tour will visit: make sure you take your camera to capture all the magical moments.  Perfect if you love Harry Potter but can't get to Orlando for the new Hagrid ride at Universal Studios.  LEGOLAND Windsor Resort is great for families, especially those with children between the ages of three and 12.  The park features over 55 rides and other attractions, as well as an extensive range of dining places.  Check out the new Haunted House Monster Party Ride for the whole family, and get ready to meet Lord Vampyre!  Calling all Marvel fans - Avengers Station has finally come to the UK!  It's an interactive exhibition where guests can take part in special agent training that will let them dive into the depths of the Avengers backstory.  Participants will have an opportunity to interact with props and characters from the biggest Marvel Universe movies.  Love animals? Head to Knowsley Safari Park this May Bank holiday for a unique Safari driving experience with your family.  The park is home to 700 animals: from cheeky monkeys to gigantic rhinos and lions. You'll get a real taste for safari wildness.  It's also a great educational tool for those who are interested in conservation.  Are you keen to find a fun and exciting activity that all the family members can get involved in?  Then load your Laser Tag gun, put on your ninja camouflage suit and get ready for the fight.  Each player will also get pizza with a drink afterwards.  This is a perfect team-building exercise that will get the whole family working together.  Love cruises? Here we've revealed how you can make huge savings by booking with a newly renovated cruise ship.  Or if Croatia is your go-to destination, take a look at this deal for a two-night break for £89pp.  This article and any featured products have been independently chosen by The Sun journalists. All recommendations within the article are informed by expert editorial opinion. If you click a link and buy a product we may earn revenue: this helps to support The Sun, and in no way affects our recommendations.


thesun--2019-07-02--Cheapest week to travel during school summer holidays and the best deals to get you there

PRICES can get very steep once the school holidays start but there's an easy way to cut the costs, new figures show.  Brits travelling abroad this summer can knock up to 29 per cent off the cost of their holiday by picking the right week to get away.  That's according to the travel experts at Skyscanner, who compared the prices of package holidays to popular destinations like Orlando, Marbella and Lisbon.  For example, they found that a family of four heading to Orlando from Newcastle on the week of August 18 could save up to 29 per cent compared to the average price of the trip the rest of the month.  For those looking for sun closer to home, Alicante is cheapest destination to visit during the week of August 11.  Lisa Tyndall, from Skyscanner, said parents looking to cut the costs should also consider flying out from different airports to save money.  She said: "Those in the north of England might find that it’s cheaper to travel to a Scottish airport to get a cheaper flight to their destination as the Scottish school holidays are different to the English schools and flight prices are likely to be cheaper out of Scotland.  "It’s also worth considering booking two single flights rather than a return flight with the same airline”  Here's when you should travel to these popular destinations this year and the bargain deals to get you there.  A week in Orlando in the US for a family of four costs £2,584, if you fly at the right time.  To get this deal, bear in mind that you would need to depart from Newcastle on August 18, sharing a room at the Sheraton Villages Resort.  Looking for a cheap last-minute break in Alicante?  Leave London Luton on August 11 for a seven-nights stay at Holiday Home Alicante, costing £1,466 for four people.  Staying at the four-star hotel Roger de Lluria in Barcelona, this deal costs £1,489 for a family of four.  To take advantage of the week-long break, you'll need to fly from London Stansted on August 4.  Dubai - nine per cent cheaper than average price  Knock nine per cent off the price of your holiday by leaving from London Heathrow on the week of August 18.  Sharing a family room at the Marco Polo Hotel, the seven-day holiday will cost you £2,310 for four.  Palma - six per cent cheaper than average price  While not much cheaper than its usual price, you can still save some cash by travelling to Palma on the week of August 18 from Bournemouth.  On these dates, a week-long holiday at the Armadams Hotel will cost you £1,981 for a family of four.  Sun Online Travel previously revealed how flight prices can increase by as much as £400 during the school holidays.  And in previous years, holidays have been up to nine times more expensive during half term.  It had meant that parents are risking fines to take their kids on holiday during term time as it can mean a huge saving.  Looking for more deals and bargains? Teletext Holidays has slashed prices on holidays in the likes of Spain and Portugal with discounts of up to 55 per cent.  You can also check out our round up of the cheap Greek island holidays deals available now.  If you are travelling, you might want to invest in a quality travel pillow. Here we've revealed which one is the best to buy.


thesun--2019-08-24--The best free attractions around the UK this bank holiday weekend

THIS long weekend is the perfect excuse to get outside and visit some of the nation's favourite spots that are guaranteed to make your August bank holiday great.  And Sun Online has you covered, and it won't cost you a pretty penny - as we reveal the best FREE attractions around the UK.  The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh (RBGE) was founded in 1670 as a physic garden.  It is now a world-renowned centre for plant science, horticulture and education and extends over four Gardens (Edinburgh, Benmore, Dawyck and Logan) boasting a rich living collection of plants.  Why not enjoy a picnic with the family there, with the lovely weather forecast in Edinburgh this weekend.    The stunning new Museum of Liverpool is the world’s first national museum devoted to the history of a regional city, demonstrating Liverpool’s unique contribution to the world.  This free family day includes the stage where John Lennon and Paul McCartney first met, Ben Johnson’s Liverpool Cityscape, a life-size Liverbird, the first Ford Anglia from Ford’s Halewood production line and Chris Boardman’s famous Lotus sport bike.  Don’t miss the 360º immersive films about football and The Beatles.    The Manchester Museum is home to an array of treasures from the natural world and the many cultures it is home to.  Highlights include a T Rex and fossils of other pre-historic creatures, ancient Egyptian artefacts and live amphibians and reptiles.  You can handle objects from the collection, take part in hands-on activities or enjoy a glass of wine of cup of coffee whilst exploring the latest ideas in science, culture and the arts.    Borough Market is rich with history, but it remains as relevant now as it has ever been.  As London’s oldest food market, it has been serving the people of Southwark for 1,000 years, and that extraordinary heritage is an important part of its appeal.  You have to pay for the food, but there are plenty of free nibbles offered by stall owners to entice customers into buying some of their items.  But visit on Saturday as it's closed on Sunday and bank holiday Monday.    This world-famous museum houses portraits of noted Britons from the Tudors to present day favourites like Ed Sheeran.  Founded in 1824, it houses a collection of over 2,300 paintings dating from the mid-13th century to 1900.  Located in Trafalgar Square, the National Portrait Gallery is family favourite for a perfect day out in London.    Crystal Palace Park, in south London, is home to an extraordinary collection of statues depicting dinosaurs and other prehistoric animals.  These were built in the 1850s by the sculptor Benjamin Waterhouse Hawkins.  They were the world’s first attempts to create life-size, scientifically accurate models of beasts known only from fossils.  The statues were based on brand-new, fragmentary evidence, plus the best scientific thinking of the day.  A genuinely free service (tips are NOT accepted) providing daily walking tours in Bath that received the Queen's Award for Voluntary Service in 2014.  These tours include the main sights in the city centre - Abbey Church Yard, Queen Square, Royal Crescent, Circus etc.  From May to September, additional free tours on Tuesday and Thursday at 11.00 to Great Pulteney Street, the Kennet and Avon canal, the 18th century Sydney Gardens, the Holburne Museum (exterior but you can leave here) and back to city centre.  All walking tours leave from outside the entrance to Roman Baths and Pump Room in Abbey Church Yard and last approximately two hours.    Roskilly’s are based at Tregellast Barton Farm - a family run business milking 125 Jersey cows - on the Lizard Peninsula in Cornwall.  The farm's small pastures have been farmed in a traditional and sustainable way for generations, without the use of pesticides and artificial fertilisers.  Every day kids can watch the dairy cows being milked at around 4pm at this free attraction.    Investigate the origins of Sherlock Holmes at the Portsmouth Museum.  If you've got a smartphone then download the Portsmouth Writers app and turn yourself into a master detective with the Magnifying Sherlock tour.  Follow the trail of the ultimate super-sleuth, Sherlock Holmes and his creator Arthur Conan Doyle, who lived and worked in Portsmouth.  Don't have a smartphone? Don't worry - a series of video screens around A Study in Sherlock will take you on a completely new, exciting and different adventure introduced by Stephen Fry.  Lindisfarne National Nature Reserve a 3,541-hectare (8,750-acre) UK national nature reserve, was founded to help safeguard the internationally important wintering bird populations.  Six internationally important species of wildfowl and wading birds winter here.  For the pale-bellied brent geese from Svalbard, this is their only regular wintering place in all of the United Kingdom.  Pinkfooted and greylag geese, wigeons, grey plovers and bar-tailed godwits are the other visitors.


thesun--2019-09-07--Cheap winter holidays The best deals over Christmas and New Year including seven nights in the Cana

Cheap winter holidays: The best deals over Christmas and New Year including seven nights in the Canary Islands for £176pp

WINTER is coming but if you plan ahead, you'll be basking in the sun come December - without breaking the bank.  There are savings to be had whether you're looking for a short-haul city break or a beach holiday abroad.  For example, LoveHolidays is offering a seven-night trip to La Palma, in the Canary Islands, for £176 per person in December.  Looking for more deals? Spend your winter in Florida and enjoy its theme parks with your kids with prices starting at £387 per person thanks to a deal from OnTheBeach.  To give you a helping hand, we took a look at the best destinations for winter sun, as well as where to find top deals for each one.  All our deals include flights as well as an accommodation for travelling in December or January.  Here are our suggestions:  Although it won't be the hottest spot in winter, the accessible Canary Islands stay seriously balmy with temperatures around 20C in December.  These sunny Spanish islands, just off the coast of northwestern Africa, boast blue-flag beaches, sprawling deserts and volcanic landscapes.  If it's too cold to swim, you'll still have plenty to do with tons of top notch restaurants, family attractions and lively nightlife across the islands.  Find cheap deals for winter 2019 holiday with LoveHolidays, with prices starting at £176 per person including flights for a week-long trip in December.  You can also check out the offers on Travelsupermaket where deals for hotels and flight start at £194 per person.  Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach holiday or to explore all the corners of this metropolitan city, Dubai offers the best of both worlds.  With temperature of about 26C on average in December, it's also the perfect destination to forget about the British winter and soak up the sun.  From desert adventures and water fun to gastronomic feasts and colourful spice markets, here are our tips to discover Dubai.  Find deals for Dubai for winter 2019 with LoveHolidays from £410pp, based on a week's stay in December including flights and hotel.  Or book flights with British Airways in January and spend a week-long holiday at the stylish Doubletree by Hilton from £484 per person.  Florida has long been a popular holiday destination for families thanks to the world-famous theme parks, warm weather and endless sandy beaches.  Home to more than a dozen theme parks, including Walt Disney World, Orlando is a popular first choice for a Florida family break  From Universal Studios and Epcot to water parks and incredible food; there's something for everyone here.  Find deals with OntheBeach from £412 per person in December or from £387 per person from Lastminute.com - accommodations and flights included.  From Orlando to Miami Beach, find out more of what Florida has to offer for a family holiday here.  Thailand's bustling capital Bangkok and idyllic islands have always been a draw for Brits.  Northern Thailand may not have the beaches of the south but delivers authentic Thai experiences.  For a more laid-back experience, try the beautiful island of Phuket, the country's largest islands famous for its sandy beaches and fresh seafood.  Find deals with LoveHolidays for seven-nights in Bangkok starting from £426 per person in December.  Or book with OnTheBeach for a week-long holiday in Phuket with prices starting at £574 per person for the same period.  If you are on the lookout for doing something different this winter, Cape Town is one of the most beautiful places to visit  The temperature tends to relay better between 16 to 20C degrees, which is definitely what you need for the optimal winter holidays exploring a city.  Find deals for winter 2019 with British Airways for £785 per person, flights and hotel included this December.  Or book Lastminute.com where prices for flights and a stay in a guesthouse start at £751 for the same period.  If you're hoping to soak up the festive atmosphere this winter, we suggest you check out the top offers for Christmas market holidays abroad.  We also have a guide to the best winter cruises for this year's festive season.  Despite the festive spirit, holiday travel can quickly become a nightmare. Here are our six tips for travelling this Christmas including how to keep your kids entertained during long journeys.


thesun--2019-12-21--Best deals in Loveholidays Christmas sale with up to 40% off holidays – and deposits start from just

Best deals in Loveholidays Christmas sale with up to 40% off holidays – and deposits start from just £25pp

LOVEHOLIDAYS have launched their Christmas sale with up to 40 per cent off holidays.  There are lots of great value offers for destinations around the world, and some are all inclusive as well - perfect if you want to kick back and not worry about budgeting for meals and drinks.  With deposits starting from just £25 per person, you can book now while prices are low and spread the cost of your holiday by paying monthly.  Plus, loveholidays are ATOL protected so your holidays will be safe in case anything goes wrong.  To save you some time, we've found some of the best deals available.  Read on to find out where you should go next year...  One of the cheapest we've seen is a seven-night break to the Algarve in Portugal.  The deal, which includes flights with Ryanair from London Stansted departing January 15, costs just £68 per person.  You'd be staying at the three-star Studio 17 by Atlantic Hotels, which is situated in a residential area in Portimao and is close to bars and restaurants.  Another great deal is a seven-night break to Malta, staying at the Topaz Hotel on a room only basis, for £89 per person.  It's a three-star hotel just a ten-minute walk from the seaside - great for a beach getaway.  The flights are with Ryanair, departing from Bristol to Luqa on January 17.  From Bournemouth, there's a deal to Prague, departing on January 12 with Ryanair.  You'd be staying at the three-star Le Petit Hotel Prague on a room-only basis.  It's close to the Metro system so it's easy to get around and see the tourist attractions.  If you're looking for something further, there's a deal to Morocco for just £109 per person, flying from London Stansted on January 18 with Ryanair.  You'd be staying at the three-star Dar Zayna, which has its own hammam and solarium.  Breakfast is included, which gives you a good excuse to explore the local restaurants for lunch and dinner.  Fancy a slice of Crete? This all-inclusive offer is for a seven-night stay at the Blue Sea Resort and Spa.  There's lots to do at the five star resort, including pools, hammam and a full entertainment program.  Flights with easyJet departing from London Luton on April 29 is also included.  You'd be staying at the five-star Rixos Premium Tekirova in Antalya for seven nights.  Flights with easyJet from London Gatwick, departing on April 21, are also included.  Virgin Atlantic were the first to kick off their winter sale with long haul flights from just £235.  BA have also launched their annual January Sale two weeks early.  Alton Towers is offering 2020 season passes at less than the price of a day ticket.


thetelegraph--2019-01-04--The best 2019 summer holidays for families with babies and toddlers

Choosing suitable accommodation and having on-site baby equipment will help make your first family holidays run more smoothly – and, yes, having the option of childcare can even mean enjoying a few precious hours to yourself.  Offering a private beach, fabulous pools and exceptional service, Costa Navarino in Greece also boasts Scott Dunn’s trusted Explorers kids’ clubs for babies from four months, as well as for older children. Interconnecting rooms are available, as well as rooms with private infinity pools.  Scott Dunn (scottdunn.com) offers a week at Costa Navarino, The Westin, from £5,300 per family travelling in July/August, based on a family of four, half board, including flights and transfers.  Set in the seaside town of Cascais, a half-hour drive from Lisbon, the upscale Martinhal Cascais Family Hotel and villa complex includes three pools – one with UV covering – complimentary kids’ clubs from 13 months up, indoor and outdoor play spaces and a baby concierge. There’s also a gym, spa and water sports.  Rooms at Martinhal Cascais start at €235 (£204) per night for a couple and a baby in June or September, room only. Fly to Lisbon.  Luxury Family Hotels offer two hours of free childcare in their Ofsted-registered crèches each day, plus baby listening service in luxurious settings with play areas, pools and spas. Fowey Hall Hotel has wellies, buckets and spades for the nearby beaches – enjoy a candlelit dinner once the babies have been put to bed.  Luxury Family Hotels (luxuryfamilyhotels.co.uk) offers four nights at Fowey Hall Hotel in June from £609, including breakfast and dinner for the adults each evening and a cream tea for two.  At the luxurious Ikos Olivia, on the Gulf of Toroneos in Halkidiki, nannies will be happy to watch your children aged four to 12 on the beach for 30 minutes free of charge while you enjoy a nap, a swim or simply a stroll on the sands. There’s also a crèche for babies, free kids’ clubs, three pools and a choice of five restaurants.  Loveholidays (loveholidays.com) offers seven nights at the Ikos Olivia from £1,249 per person based on two adults and an infant occupying a double room all-inclusive, including flights from Gatwick travelling on June 1.  There are more than 40 different activities for all the family at Holiday Village Cap Esterel in Saint-Raphaël on the French Riviera, including water parks, an infinity pool, and a baby club which will accept children from newborn. Cots, highchairs, pushchairs and even food processors are available for hire.  Pierre et Vacances (pierreetvacances.co.uk) offers seven nights in a studio at Holiday Village Cap Esterel for up to five people from £477 arriving June 6. Fly to Nice.  Four miles from the sea in west Wales, Croft Farm & Celtic Cottages features a leisure complex with indoor pool and sauna, as well as indoor and outdoor play areas. Children can help feed the rabbits, chickens, goats, ponies and potbellied pigs and collect eggs. Other facilities include a soft play area, ride-on toys and sand pit.  Croft Farm & Celtic Cottages (croft-holiday-cottages.co.uk) offers a week in The Granary (sleeps three) from £850 in June.  Set on an ancient farm, at Stanglwirt kids can spend the day petting rabbits, brushing ponies and collecting eggs, or enjoy a film in the “pool cinema” while playing on waterslides. There’s a kids’ club, a daily supervised toddlers’ group, plus a large spa, pools and plenty of outdoor activities.  Stanglwirt (stanglwirt.com) offers a double room for a couple with a baby from €278 (£242) per night B&B travelling in June. Fly to Munich, Innsbruck or Salzburg.  With five bedrooms – plenty of room for the grandparents – 16th-century Villa Tesoro has an indoor soft play room, plus a fenced pool and a trampoline. There’s a copper bath in the master bedroom, exposed stone walls, and even a grand piano.  A twice-weekly maid service is included, and catering can be arranged. Sleeps up to 12 in five bedrooms and costs €8,625 (£7,521) in peak summer (scottwilliams.co.uk). Fly to Perugia or Florence.