TRAVEL ARTICLES
Friday, 20 February 2009
London to Paris: is Eurostar better than flying?
London to Paris: Train vs Plane
London and Paris are the two most visited cities in Europe. If you are going to travel between these two great capitals here are some points to consider whether to fly or get the Eurostar.
Travel Time
Travel by train from London to Paris takes 2 hours and 15 minutes. A flight takes around 1 hour.
While flying is technically quicker, once you have factored in getting to and from airports, checking in, clearing security and reclaiming bags, Eurostar works out to be a faster option.
Benefits of Train Travel
There is less transit hassle to travel on the Eurostar. You pass through both countries customs before you board. Clearing customs and baggage screening takes no longer than 20 minutes and you only need to be there 30 minutes before departure.
You carry your bags onboard and as you have already cleared customs, once you reach your destination you can walk off the train and straight out of the station.
Benefits of Flying
Despite the train being faster overall, there are some instances in which flying is the better option. First of all you might be flying to Paris via London on alliance airlines which includes a stopover in your ticket.
Another reason to consider flying is if you are going one-way. For example if you are flying from the US to London, then onto Paris, then returning to the US from Paris. One-way tickets on Eurostar are not good value and often cost more than a return ticket. In this case it would be cheaper to fly.
If you are going one-way and still want to experience the Eurostar you could buy a return ticket and just not use the return. A discount return ticket will cost as much as a one flight so the expense is comparable.
Train Station v Airports
The advantage that Eurostar has over flying is in the location of the train stations. The Eurostar London station is the magnificent St Pancras Station, which is a destination in itself. This restored Victorian Gothic masterpiece is close to central London and has an impressive departure facilities.
Eurostar in Paris arrives at Gare du Nord (North station), which is close to central Paris and well connected with the metro and regional rail services.
As the train stations are centrally located the time and expense of transferring to airports is avoided.
Overall the benefits of Eurostar outweigh the benefits of flying, which is now the most popular way to travel between London and Paris.
Buy Eurostar tickets online.
London and Paris are the two most visited cities in Europe. If you are going to travel between these two great capitals here are some points to consider whether to fly or get the Eurostar.
Travel Time
Travel by train from London to Paris takes 2 hours and 15 minutes. A flight takes around 1 hour.
While flying is technically quicker, once you have factored in getting to and from airports, checking in, clearing security and reclaiming bags, Eurostar works out to be a faster option.
Benefits of Train Travel
There is less transit hassle to travel on the Eurostar. You pass through both countries customs before you board. Clearing customs and baggage screening takes no longer than 20 minutes and you only need to be there 30 minutes before departure.
You carry your bags onboard and as you have already cleared customs, once you reach your destination you can walk off the train and straight out of the station.
Benefits of Flying
Despite the train being faster overall, there are some instances in which flying is the better option. First of all you might be flying to Paris via London on alliance airlines which includes a stopover in your ticket.
Another reason to consider flying is if you are going one-way. For example if you are flying from the US to London, then onto Paris, then returning to the US from Paris. One-way tickets on Eurostar are not good value and often cost more than a return ticket. In this case it would be cheaper to fly.
If you are going one-way and still want to experience the Eurostar you could buy a return ticket and just not use the return. A discount return ticket will cost as much as a one flight so the expense is comparable.
Train Station v Airports
The advantage that Eurostar has over flying is in the location of the train stations. The Eurostar London station is the magnificent St Pancras Station, which is a destination in itself. This restored Victorian Gothic masterpiece is close to central London and has an impressive departure facilities.
Eurostar in Paris arrives at Gare du Nord (North station), which is close to central Paris and well connected with the metro and regional rail services.
As the train stations are centrally located the time and expense of transferring to airports is avoided.
Overall the benefits of Eurostar outweigh the benefits of flying, which is now the most popular way to travel between London and Paris.
Buy Eurostar tickets online.
Friday, 2 January 2009
How to find the cheapest hotel rooms online
There are so many online hotel booking sites that it is impossible to say which one offers the cheapest hotels rooms. So the best way to find the cheapest hotels online is to use a hotel booking comparison website.
Comparison booking sites searches multiple hotel reservation websites at once and lists the results on one page. The largest hotel comparison search website is Hotels Combined. This hotel price comparison website searches over 30 of the biggest online hotel booking sites.
When you search for a hotel room you will get a list of all the hotel rooms available from all of the booking sites, and you can then sort the results into cheapest rooms available.
When you select a hotel you will be shown how much the room rate is from all of the hotel booking sites. Sometimes the room rates can vary by as much as 50%!
The vagaries of how hotel rooms are priced means that different booking sites get a certain amount of rooms at a discount rate. It is far too time consuming searching each hotel booking site individually, so searching for hotel rooms from a comparison site will save you time and money.
Search and compare hotels at HotelsCombined.com
Comparison booking sites searches multiple hotel reservation websites at once and lists the results on one page. The largest hotel comparison search website is Hotels Combined. This hotel price comparison website searches over 30 of the biggest online hotel booking sites.
When you search for a hotel room you will get a list of all the hotel rooms available from all of the booking sites, and you can then sort the results into cheapest rooms available.
When you select a hotel you will be shown how much the room rate is from all of the hotel booking sites. Sometimes the room rates can vary by as much as 50%!
The vagaries of how hotel rooms are priced means that different booking sites get a certain amount of rooms at a discount rate. It is far too time consuming searching each hotel booking site individually, so searching for hotel rooms from a comparison site will save you time and money.
Search and compare hotels at HotelsCombined.com
Thursday, 11 September 2008
Viva Barcelona
Barcelona: The gaudy jewel in the Spanish architectural-crown; a bustling Catalonian city thrumming to Flamenco, tapas and tide; a beautiful seaside resort, hemmed-in by the mountainous Serra de Collserola ridge.
As a holiday destination, Barcelona is all things to all men - providing almost every possible attraction for the full gamut of travelers and tourists. The airport is now Spain's second largest, and cheap flights to Barcelona - coupled with a vigorous tourist industry that is ever expanding - make the city one of Europe's top destinations.
Indeed, Barcelona is an extremely accessible and eminently affordable city break destination; short-haul flights and accommodation can be snatched up for very little on sites like Lastminute.com. Because Barcelona has so much to recommend it besides hot weather and beaches it also makes a great off-season destination, you might even prefer the prospect of exploring the city unhindered by the touristy bustle of summer. Otbeach.com have some great deals on late holidays.
Historically, Barcelona dates back to the 3rd century BC, and evidence of the city's early Roman origins can be seen in the ruins beneath the Plaça del Rei. However, architecturally speaking, the dominant force in the city is certainly the buildings of Antoni Gaudi; the great modernist architect of highly individualistic buildings that bubble rise out of the cityscape like molten lava. His great, unfinished masterpiece, The Sagrada Família - a massive Roman Catholic church - is still under construction today, having been begun in 1882.
On other artistic fronts, Barcelona offers dazzling array of opportunities to indulge the sense: in one of the many art and antiquarian museums; in the Gran Teatre del Liceu opera house; the Teatre Nacional de Catalunya; the Picasso museum, or the Fundacio Joan Miro, to name a few.
Once your cultural palate has been quenched, you might want to sample some of the exquisite restaurants and bars Barcelona has to offer. Tapas and local specialities of stewed sausage and white beans, red peppers and aubergine, and cod with onions will hit the spot perfectly - washed down with a jug of cold Sangria. Or you could drink that on one of Barcelona's four kilometres of beach, or in one of the 68 municipal parks...
Barcelona is one of the leading lights of modern, cosmopolitan Europe, an extraordinary and varied place with a vibrant culture, an astonishing heritage and a glorious landscape. Viva Espana, and viva Barcelona!
As a holiday destination, Barcelona is all things to all men - providing almost every possible attraction for the full gamut of travelers and tourists. The airport is now Spain's second largest, and cheap flights to Barcelona - coupled with a vigorous tourist industry that is ever expanding - make the city one of Europe's top destinations.
Indeed, Barcelona is an extremely accessible and eminently affordable city break destination; short-haul flights and accommodation can be snatched up for very little on sites like Lastminute.com. Because Barcelona has so much to recommend it besides hot weather and beaches it also makes a great off-season destination, you might even prefer the prospect of exploring the city unhindered by the touristy bustle of summer. Otbeach.com have some great deals on late holidays.
Historically, Barcelona dates back to the 3rd century BC, and evidence of the city's early Roman origins can be seen in the ruins beneath the Plaça del Rei. However, architecturally speaking, the dominant force in the city is certainly the buildings of Antoni Gaudi; the great modernist architect of highly individualistic buildings that bubble rise out of the cityscape like molten lava. His great, unfinished masterpiece, The Sagrada Família - a massive Roman Catholic church - is still under construction today, having been begun in 1882.
On other artistic fronts, Barcelona offers dazzling array of opportunities to indulge the sense: in one of the many art and antiquarian museums; in the Gran Teatre del Liceu opera house; the Teatre Nacional de Catalunya; the Picasso museum, or the Fundacio Joan Miro, to name a few.
Once your cultural palate has been quenched, you might want to sample some of the exquisite restaurants and bars Barcelona has to offer. Tapas and local specialities of stewed sausage and white beans, red peppers and aubergine, and cod with onions will hit the spot perfectly - washed down with a jug of cold Sangria. Or you could drink that on one of Barcelona's four kilometres of beach, or in one of the 68 municipal parks...
Barcelona is one of the leading lights of modern, cosmopolitan Europe, an extraordinary and varied place with a vibrant culture, an astonishing heritage and a glorious landscape. Viva Espana, and viva Barcelona!
Taking that Late Summer Holiday
There is a very strong argument for delaying your summer break until the commercial drop-off of early autumn. For a start, the moment we move out of high-season breaks, the prices drop dramatically. Secondly, the crowds are also minimised, as most children are back at school, students go back to university, and most of the rest of the country head back to the office.
Also, flights begin to run less frequently, meaning that you are more likely to fill up a regular plane rather than demand the commission of a whole new set of flights. It might sound insignificant, but that is a reduction in carbon emissions as well as a better guarantee that you won't get bumped or severely delayed by massive crowds.
These are just a few reasons to consider taking advantage of one of the late holidays on offer at a range of online travel websites. Many of us will be tempted by the idea of a few days in the sun, making up for the beach holiday we never had this summer. Take a look at On the Beach's website and you may well find some inspiration for a sunny September interlude.
There are still plenty of holiday destinations to choose from; thanks to the extended summer much of the continent seems to be enjoying, you are not limited to taking city breaks or walking tours. Make the most, instead, of the beach holidays on offer. Perhaps you fancy yourself as a surfer, an explorer following in the footsteps of William S. Burroughs and Jack Kerouac: take a trip down to Morocco for culture clashes as well as wave crashes.
If you fancy something quieter, the Balaeric Islands are now winding down after their busy summer season. The old side of Ibiza is a beguiling and picturesque part of an island more famous for its extraordinarily expensive mega-clubs. If Spain doesn't seem like the place for you, the south coast of France provides style, class and top-quality cuisine, as well as beautiful scenery and a good deal of celebrity spotting. But with these late holiday offers, you won't necessarily have to pay movie-star megabucks to get there.
Also, flights begin to run less frequently, meaning that you are more likely to fill up a regular plane rather than demand the commission of a whole new set of flights. It might sound insignificant, but that is a reduction in carbon emissions as well as a better guarantee that you won't get bumped or severely delayed by massive crowds.
These are just a few reasons to consider taking advantage of one of the late holidays on offer at a range of online travel websites. Many of us will be tempted by the idea of a few days in the sun, making up for the beach holiday we never had this summer. Take a look at On the Beach's website and you may well find some inspiration for a sunny September interlude.
There are still plenty of holiday destinations to choose from; thanks to the extended summer much of the continent seems to be enjoying, you are not limited to taking city breaks or walking tours. Make the most, instead, of the beach holidays on offer. Perhaps you fancy yourself as a surfer, an explorer following in the footsteps of William S. Burroughs and Jack Kerouac: take a trip down to Morocco for culture clashes as well as wave crashes.
If you fancy something quieter, the Balaeric Islands are now winding down after their busy summer season. The old side of Ibiza is a beguiling and picturesque part of an island more famous for its extraordinarily expensive mega-clubs. If Spain doesn't seem like the place for you, the south coast of France provides style, class and top-quality cuisine, as well as beautiful scenery and a good deal of celebrity spotting. But with these late holiday offers, you won't necessarily have to pay movie-star megabucks to get there.
Wednesday, 10 September 2008
Havana's Crumbling Charm
Cuba has largely avoided being commercialised like other Caribbean islands, retaining the glamour of its past; the modern and old-school worlds living together on the island. This lends Cuba its nostalgic gleam and makes a visit a one-off experience.
If you're planning a trip, Havana, the capital is a good place to start if you're after a taste of the old world. This city best represents a more antique Cuba and its dusty architecture gives the capital a faded charm.
Cuba is famous for its rum, so a visit to the former headquarters of the Bacardi bar is recommended. It was built in the 1930s, based on a New York Art Deco theme tower and was one of the first skyscrapers in Havana. Another landmark that was in the swing of old Havana is The Hotel Nacional, which was originally built up by the North America mafia in the 1930s. Famous guests have included Frank Sinatra and Ernest Hemingway, while the musicians from Buena Vista Social Club have sung in their gardens. It holds onto its peeling decor and old-school glamour today, which may feel bit kitsch without its context; but it's a significant building to Havana.
If you want to relax after exploring Havana's streets, you can lie back and sunbathe on one of the many beautiful beaches. In Havana, a top choice is the Tarara Marina that has flower coral in the shallow waters and keen scuba divers should be delighted by the swordfish and sea marlins. Alternatively try Bacuranao Beach for the closest beach to Havana, in the Habana del Este district. It's managed to stay local and tourist-free by being a little difficult to find, but is worth investigating for the fresh water creek that runs thought it.
When you venture out after dark, anticipate a night full of music and singing. Music is a real passion for Cubans and the nightlife has a real buzz. Havana is known as the party capital of the island so expect a mix of modern and old-school clubs and bars. Keeping in theme with the older Havana, you might want to try La Floridita - a place renowned for their daiquiris. For a night of traditional sing-song, visit the Piano Bar Maragato at Hotel Florida which is right in middle of old Havana. It is a Cuban haunt, and a night out will include very decent rum and a bunch of locals performing old classics to each other.
If you're planning a trip, Havana, the capital is a good place to start if you're after a taste of the old world. This city best represents a more antique Cuba and its dusty architecture gives the capital a faded charm.
Cuba is famous for its rum, so a visit to the former headquarters of the Bacardi bar is recommended. It was built in the 1930s, based on a New York Art Deco theme tower and was one of the first skyscrapers in Havana. Another landmark that was in the swing of old Havana is The Hotel Nacional, which was originally built up by the North America mafia in the 1930s. Famous guests have included Frank Sinatra and Ernest Hemingway, while the musicians from Buena Vista Social Club have sung in their gardens. It holds onto its peeling decor and old-school glamour today, which may feel bit kitsch without its context; but it's a significant building to Havana.
If you want to relax after exploring Havana's streets, you can lie back and sunbathe on one of the many beautiful beaches. In Havana, a top choice is the Tarara Marina that has flower coral in the shallow waters and keen scuba divers should be delighted by the swordfish and sea marlins. Alternatively try Bacuranao Beach for the closest beach to Havana, in the Habana del Este district. It's managed to stay local and tourist-free by being a little difficult to find, but is worth investigating for the fresh water creek that runs thought it.
When you venture out after dark, anticipate a night full of music and singing. Music is a real passion for Cubans and the nightlife has a real buzz. Havana is known as the party capital of the island so expect a mix of modern and old-school clubs and bars. Keeping in theme with the older Havana, you might want to try La Floridita - a place renowned for their daiquiris. For a night of traditional sing-song, visit the Piano Bar Maragato at Hotel Florida which is right in middle of old Havana. It is a Cuban haunt, and a night out will include very decent rum and a bunch of locals performing old classics to each other.
Friday, 30 May 2008
America? China? It's all Greek to me...
To enjoy classic and Modern Greek cuisine, you don't necessarily have to travel to Greece. Thousands of Greeks have travelled across the world and made their homes elsewhere; many have settled in America and now embrace its lifestyle and traditions. However, they always carry with them a strong sense of their homeland's pride and culture; integral to that culture are the mouth-watering aromas and ingredients of their unique cuisine.
The Greek Food Festival in Little Rock, Arkansas estimate that, during the three days of their celebration, food-seekers will consume over 10,000 sourota, 17,000 pieces of baklava, 57,000 melomacarona and thousands more assorted sweet pastries - not to mention the savoury dishes!
Dallas also holds a Greek Food Festival of its own; an annual event hosted by the Greek Orthodox Church. As well as the startling array of dishes available, spectators can listen to traditional Greek music or learn and participate in dances that are steeped in history. They will also have the chance to learn more about the country's culture and history and enjoy cooking demonstrations held by local chefs.
The Astoria neighbourhood in New York is one of the most vibrant and eclectic in the city itself, with a strong, effervescent Greek community. Subtle and alluring smells infuse the side-streets, creating an exotic and sensual atmosphere. Here you can sample authentic shish kebabs, grilled fished with olive oil, lemon and garlic, chicken souvlaki and the traditional Greek salad, as well as much, much more. The region plays to host to some of New York's finest and favourite Greek restaurants, including Espirides and Opa! In addition, you can practice your own skills after purchasing produce from the teeming open market or relax with a pungent Greek coffee.
Greek cuisine hasn't just settled in the States; it has permeated into many cultures and has comfortably been absorbed into the host country's landscape. Even as recently as 2001, Beijing opened its first Greek Restaurant, the Athena. The restaurant took two years to gain approval, but a word from the Greek ambassador to China managed to convince the Athena's parent company to open a restaurant in the city. His astonishment that a major capital city was not hosting a restaurant that represented his homeland has been of great benefit to the city's diners and the Athena now hosts regular clients, many of whom are Greek.
It may seem a little absurd to travel to a country other than Greece to sample Greek food, but the option is there to holiday abroad and experience the best of many different cultures in one sitting.
The Greek Food Festival in Little Rock, Arkansas estimate that, during the three days of their celebration, food-seekers will consume over 10,000 sourota, 17,000 pieces of baklava, 57,000 melomacarona and thousands more assorted sweet pastries - not to mention the savoury dishes!
Dallas also holds a Greek Food Festival of its own; an annual event hosted by the Greek Orthodox Church. As well as the startling array of dishes available, spectators can listen to traditional Greek music or learn and participate in dances that are steeped in history. They will also have the chance to learn more about the country's culture and history and enjoy cooking demonstrations held by local chefs.
The Astoria neighbourhood in New York is one of the most vibrant and eclectic in the city itself, with a strong, effervescent Greek community. Subtle and alluring smells infuse the side-streets, creating an exotic and sensual atmosphere. Here you can sample authentic shish kebabs, grilled fished with olive oil, lemon and garlic, chicken souvlaki and the traditional Greek salad, as well as much, much more. The region plays to host to some of New York's finest and favourite Greek restaurants, including Espirides and Opa! In addition, you can practice your own skills after purchasing produce from the teeming open market or relax with a pungent Greek coffee.
Greek cuisine hasn't just settled in the States; it has permeated into many cultures and has comfortably been absorbed into the host country's landscape. Even as recently as 2001, Beijing opened its first Greek Restaurant, the Athena. The restaurant took two years to gain approval, but a word from the Greek ambassador to China managed to convince the Athena's parent company to open a restaurant in the city. His astonishment that a major capital city was not hosting a restaurant that represented his homeland has been of great benefit to the city's diners and the Athena now hosts regular clients, many of whom are Greek.
It may seem a little absurd to travel to a country other than Greece to sample Greek food, but the option is there to holiday abroad and experience the best of many different cultures in one sitting.
Thursday, 29 May 2008
3 Spanish cities
Madrid
The capital of Spain is a cosmopolitan city and business centre with spectacular cultural and artistic heritage, which also boasts fantastic nightlife. The city offers excellent shopping, exclusive restaurants, luxury hotels and friendly people in some incredible surroundings.
'Palazio Real', located a few minutes away from the Opera metro station, is the spectacular Royal Palace of Madrid and is the official residence of the King of Spain. Visitors can take a tour inside and the grand interiors and beautiful grounds make this a very nice place to visit and relax in.
Every Sunday in the old part of Madrid is 'Rasta market', a large open-air flea market nestled between the city's small, steep streets. With everything on sale from clothing to jewellery and artwork the market is very popular with tourists and locals alike and the little streets where it is held can get completely swamped with people. When evening draws in 'Calle de Manuela Malasana' is a good place to go for top quality restaurants and bars.
Barcelona
Over the past twenty years Barcelona has transformed itself into one of the most lively and stylish cities in the world. Fantastic architecture, fashion, restaurants, shopping and nightlife (especially in summer) make this city an absolute must on any trip to Spain.
The highlight of Barcelona is the incredible 'Sagrada Familia', a Roman Catholic Church which was originally designed by Gaudi and is still in the process of being completed. A stroll down 'La Rambla' is another absolute must and many long summer evenings can be spent sitting out at any one of the cafes watching street performers, listening to local musicians and just watching the beautiful people go by.
Seville
Seville is a deeply stylish and atmospheric city in southwest Spain. It offers all of the things you would expect from a leading city like excellent shopping, restaurants and nightlife all within a distinctly intimate setting.
A visit to the 'Museo de Bellas Artes' is essential to see some of Spain's incredible artwork. Culture aside, 'Calle Tetuan' is the place to go to for shopping, or for the more exclusive designer shops try the boutiques on 'Plaza Nueva'. When evening comes 'Plaza Salvador' has a great choice of bars where you can enjoy a drink or two with friends.
The capital of Spain is a cosmopolitan city and business centre with spectacular cultural and artistic heritage, which also boasts fantastic nightlife. The city offers excellent shopping, exclusive restaurants, luxury hotels and friendly people in some incredible surroundings.
'Palazio Real', located a few minutes away from the Opera metro station, is the spectacular Royal Palace of Madrid and is the official residence of the King of Spain. Visitors can take a tour inside and the grand interiors and beautiful grounds make this a very nice place to visit and relax in.
Every Sunday in the old part of Madrid is 'Rasta market', a large open-air flea market nestled between the city's small, steep streets. With everything on sale from clothing to jewellery and artwork the market is very popular with tourists and locals alike and the little streets where it is held can get completely swamped with people. When evening draws in 'Calle de Manuela Malasana' is a good place to go for top quality restaurants and bars.
Barcelona
Over the past twenty years Barcelona has transformed itself into one of the most lively and stylish cities in the world. Fantastic architecture, fashion, restaurants, shopping and nightlife (especially in summer) make this city an absolute must on any trip to Spain.
The highlight of Barcelona is the incredible 'Sagrada Familia', a Roman Catholic Church which was originally designed by Gaudi and is still in the process of being completed. A stroll down 'La Rambla' is another absolute must and many long summer evenings can be spent sitting out at any one of the cafes watching street performers, listening to local musicians and just watching the beautiful people go by.
Seville
Seville is a deeply stylish and atmospheric city in southwest Spain. It offers all of the things you would expect from a leading city like excellent shopping, restaurants and nightlife all within a distinctly intimate setting.
A visit to the 'Museo de Bellas Artes' is essential to see some of Spain's incredible artwork. Culture aside, 'Calle Tetuan' is the place to go to for shopping, or for the more exclusive designer shops try the boutiques on 'Plaza Nueva'. When evening comes 'Plaza Salvador' has a great choice of bars where you can enjoy a drink or two with friends.
Botswana Safari
The landscape and wildlife of Botswana has long delighted and inspired visitors. Mark and Delia Owens describe its varied wildlife in great detail in their 1992 best-selling book 'Cry of the Kalahari' and there are few other African countries better for safari. Tourism plays a key part in the country's economy and Botswana now has hotels and facilities to match its breathtaking natural surroundings and wildlife. Some of the county's key safari locations are explored below.
Okavango Delta
The Okavango Delta is the world's largest inland delta. The delta's waterways have created a vast number of palm islands and lush grasslands with vegetation and with no outlet to the sea they also irrigate the Kalahari Desert each year. Large numbers of mammals such as elephants, giraffe and buffalo, as well as an impressive variety of birds, can be seen on the delta's banks and this draws large numbers of tourists to the area. However, a unique selling point of Botswana is that it is less crowded with tourists than some other African countries like Kenya, and you are unlikely to see other vehicles when on safari.
Moremi Reserve
This reserve can be found on the middle of the Okavango Delta and was named after Chief Moremi of the BaTawana tribe. It is widely thought to be one of the most beautiful wildlife reserves in Africa. In the park visitors can see a variety of animals including elephants, giraffe, buffalo and zebras, as well as a variety of predatory animals including lions, leopards and cheetahs.
In the heart of Moremi lies the Xakanaxa Lagoon, which boasts an incredible amount of antelope, leopard and wild dog. Several private camps and lodges have been setup along the edge of the lagoon and this is one of the best places to stay in the reserve. 'Camp Moremi' and 'Chiefs Safari Camp' are two of the most luxurious lodges in this area where the camp has been so skilfully integrated into the landscape that guests can often view game without even having to leave the camp.
The Desert
Botswana has fascinating and intense deserts, which are best visited when the seasonal animal migrations take place, from March to May. The best way to get around the desert is to hire a 4x4 vehicle and camp out under the starts, but be warned you will need proper supplies and a guide to lead you.
Bushmen guides can show you round specific parts of the desert. Animals that live in the desert include hyenas, lions, jackals, antelope, as well as many unusual species of birds and reptiles.
Okavango Delta
The Okavango Delta is the world's largest inland delta. The delta's waterways have created a vast number of palm islands and lush grasslands with vegetation and with no outlet to the sea they also irrigate the Kalahari Desert each year. Large numbers of mammals such as elephants, giraffe and buffalo, as well as an impressive variety of birds, can be seen on the delta's banks and this draws large numbers of tourists to the area. However, a unique selling point of Botswana is that it is less crowded with tourists than some other African countries like Kenya, and you are unlikely to see other vehicles when on safari.
Moremi Reserve
This reserve can be found on the middle of the Okavango Delta and was named after Chief Moremi of the BaTawana tribe. It is widely thought to be one of the most beautiful wildlife reserves in Africa. In the park visitors can see a variety of animals including elephants, giraffe, buffalo and zebras, as well as a variety of predatory animals including lions, leopards and cheetahs.
In the heart of Moremi lies the Xakanaxa Lagoon, which boasts an incredible amount of antelope, leopard and wild dog. Several private camps and lodges have been setup along the edge of the lagoon and this is one of the best places to stay in the reserve. 'Camp Moremi' and 'Chiefs Safari Camp' are two of the most luxurious lodges in this area where the camp has been so skilfully integrated into the landscape that guests can often view game without even having to leave the camp.
The Desert
Botswana has fascinating and intense deserts, which are best visited when the seasonal animal migrations take place, from March to May. The best way to get around the desert is to hire a 4x4 vehicle and camp out under the starts, but be warned you will need proper supplies and a guide to lead you.
Bushmen guides can show you round specific parts of the desert. Animals that live in the desert include hyenas, lions, jackals, antelope, as well as many unusual species of birds and reptiles.
Tuesday, 22 January 2008
Gambling on Travel Insurance
You've just landed on a hot foreign shore for a pleasant week away with the family. As you're waiting for your luggage to come around the carousel you nip to the toilet, thinking your partner knows where your hand luggage is, and they are looking out for it. Within it is your passport, plane tickets and £200 worth of foreign currency. When you return, it's gone, and your partner had no idea that it was there in the first place. They thought that you'd taken it with you.
Scenario A: You didn't take out travel insurance
You have a steaming argument with your partner for not looking after the bag, even though you didn't tell them to. 'We don't have any insurance!' You cry. Not only do you and your partner come close to blows, but you won't be refunded for what's been stolen. The holiday gets off to a bad start, and you can hardly enjoy yourself without the £200 worth of foreign cash. Your relationship with your partner gets tenser as the week goes by.
Scenario B: You took out a policy which covers for theft
You have an argument with your partner but it cools when you say that you've taken out adequate cover. It's a minor mishap, and slightly annoying that you won't have the cash immediately and plane tickets are gone, but your here now and your policy provider will sort it all out in the week. The holiday runs almost perfectly in the knowledge that you'll be totally refunded.
Which would you rather have?
Travel insurance might seem like an extra expense when you've forked out hundreds or even thousands of pounds for a holiday, but the holiday could be ruined if you don't have adequate cover if something goes wrong. There's no point gambling on thinking that it won't happen to you, you really should take out cover for peace of mind.
Scenario A: You didn't take out travel insurance
You have a steaming argument with your partner for not looking after the bag, even though you didn't tell them to. 'We don't have any insurance!' You cry. Not only do you and your partner come close to blows, but you won't be refunded for what's been stolen. The holiday gets off to a bad start, and you can hardly enjoy yourself without the £200 worth of foreign cash. Your relationship with your partner gets tenser as the week goes by.
Scenario B: You took out a policy which covers for theft
You have an argument with your partner but it cools when you say that you've taken out adequate cover. It's a minor mishap, and slightly annoying that you won't have the cash immediately and plane tickets are gone, but your here now and your policy provider will sort it all out in the week. The holiday runs almost perfectly in the knowledge that you'll be totally refunded.
Which would you rather have?
Travel insurance might seem like an extra expense when you've forked out hundreds or even thousands of pounds for a holiday, but the holiday could be ruined if you don't have adequate cover if something goes wrong. There's no point gambling on thinking that it won't happen to you, you really should take out cover for peace of mind.
Thursday, 20 December 2007
One Night in Istanbul
The nightlife of a city is something that almost all British tourists enjoy, but if you want something a little different than popular French restaurants or drunken Spanish resorts, then Istanbul comes as highly recommended for its night haunts. If you're thinking of heading to Istanbul, or you want to find out more about the nightlife of the world's third largest city, then this article should give you the seeds for a great night out.
Where to Eat
Arriving in Istanbul on a Saturday night with the agenda of meeting plenty of English people and getting drunk will more than likely leave you culture shocked. The summer periods are touristier than other times of year, but it's not particularly easy to find many English speakers in the popular area of Taksin. That said, it's still worth going to one of the plush Turkish nightclubs, but to begin with it's recommended to visit an area of bustling cafes located about halfway down the Istiklal Caddesi, which is the main commercial road linking Karakoy to Taksin Square. Just head to Halkbank (a Turkish bank on the street) and you'll be in the right place.
Once there you'll be spoilt for choice with packed cafes and outdoor seating filling up much of the roads. You'll also be confronted by numerous street food sellers, market stalls and bartering waiters attempting to usher you into their restaurant. Most of the restaurants are very similar, with a fish and kebab menu (around 10 YTL - £4) as the main feature, but it's worth finding one that sells beer for less than 4 YTL (£1.75), as this is a night out, after all. Once your stomach is filled, and a few tasty Efe's lagers consumed, it's time to get the bill and head across the street.
Where to Drink
For those who want a seriously sophisticated night out, then you may want to sample dinner at the 360 Istanbul, which is located close to the noticeable House Café on Istiklal Caddesi. But seeing as you've already eaten for a bargain, the 360 Istanbul is still recommended for at least one drink. They don't come cheap at 20 YTL (£8) per cocktail, but seeing as the plush bar is located at the top of a commercial block, the 360-degree view of the city skyline is spectacular.
Where to Club
Keeping in the local area is the cool night club called Roxy on the nearby Siraselviler Caddesi. It's closed during the week, but on the weekends it's a bustling hotspot for students and rich kids, while not being too offensive for British tastes. For one thing, all of the music is straight from dance floors back home! Drinks don't come cheap - at about 20 YTL a pop and entry is a whopping 40 YTL - but it's worth going here just once to get a feel for a true Turkish after hours club. You won't be disappointed by its cool demeanour.
Where to Eat
Arriving in Istanbul on a Saturday night with the agenda of meeting plenty of English people and getting drunk will more than likely leave you culture shocked. The summer periods are touristier than other times of year, but it's not particularly easy to find many English speakers in the popular area of Taksin. That said, it's still worth going to one of the plush Turkish nightclubs, but to begin with it's recommended to visit an area of bustling cafes located about halfway down the Istiklal Caddesi, which is the main commercial road linking Karakoy to Taksin Square. Just head to Halkbank (a Turkish bank on the street) and you'll be in the right place.
Once there you'll be spoilt for choice with packed cafes and outdoor seating filling up much of the roads. You'll also be confronted by numerous street food sellers, market stalls and bartering waiters attempting to usher you into their restaurant. Most of the restaurants are very similar, with a fish and kebab menu (around 10 YTL - £4) as the main feature, but it's worth finding one that sells beer for less than 4 YTL (£1.75), as this is a night out, after all. Once your stomach is filled, and a few tasty Efe's lagers consumed, it's time to get the bill and head across the street.
Where to Drink
For those who want a seriously sophisticated night out, then you may want to sample dinner at the 360 Istanbul, which is located close to the noticeable House Café on Istiklal Caddesi. But seeing as you've already eaten for a bargain, the 360 Istanbul is still recommended for at least one drink. They don't come cheap at 20 YTL (£8) per cocktail, but seeing as the plush bar is located at the top of a commercial block, the 360-degree view of the city skyline is spectacular.
Where to Club
Keeping in the local area is the cool night club called Roxy on the nearby Siraselviler Caddesi. It's closed during the week, but on the weekends it's a bustling hotspot for students and rich kids, while not being too offensive for British tastes. For one thing, all of the music is straight from dance floors back home! Drinks don't come cheap - at about 20 YTL a pop and entry is a whopping 40 YTL - but it's worth going here just once to get a feel for a true Turkish after hours club. You won't be disappointed by its cool demeanour.
