Budget Travel Archives - Page 6 of 9

February 20, 2014 by Jeremy

Bargain sun and sand destinations

Who doesn’t dream of jetting off somewhere sun-drenched and sprinkled with beautiful beaches? But the truth is that our budgets seemed to be stretched further and further, leaving little room for holidays. That said, I think there’s still scope to go away and enjoy yourself, provided you pick a destination that’s known for being budget-friendly.

To help give you a little inspiration for your holiday planning, I’ve put together a list of three destinations that are reliable both in terms of sunshine and being kind to your wallet. If none of these tickle your fancy, you can check out a wider range of options (also budget-friendly) through companies like Holiday Nights.

Benidorm

Topping my list is Benidorm, which is probably one of the best-known budget beach destinations. Sitting on Spain’s Costa Blanca, it has pretty much everything the average UK holidaymaker could want – a healthy dose of Spanish sunshine, great beaches, plenty of nightlife and a few favourites from home.

You see, part of Benidorm’s longstanding appeal is that it’s a bit like finding a slice of England in the Spanish sunshine, what with its pubs and classic fish and chip shops. So, in my opinion, Benidorm is the ultimate place to come to if you fancy having that classic seaside holiday.

Its nightlife has a little bit of everything, including karaoke, live music and cabaret, not to mention lots of nightclubs, while there are some lovely local attractions. For instance, just off the coast is Peacock Island, which you can visit for some gorgeous coastal views.

Crete

Crete is a brilliant budget beach destination if you fancy having a little more variety in terms of what you do. This Greek island is really popular among walkers, while there are lots of amazing historical sites here too.

Let’s take a quick look at the beaches first, though. One of the best is Vai in Itanos, which is utterly idyllic. It’s also unique, being backed by Europe’s largest natural palm grove. Another good option is Preveli Beach, which is one of the best-loved stretches of sand on the island.

In term of other attractions, make sure you take the time to visit Knossos, which dates back to the Minoan civilisation. It should take you a good few hours to explore, so leave plenty of time for your trip – heading there in the morning is usually best, because it can get crowded later in the day.

Corfu

Last up is another of the Greek islands, Corfu. Despite being Greek, this destination has quite a European feel – something that’s largely down to the fact that it’s been occupied by the French, Venetians and British over the years. So, expect to see some European-style buildings and things like cricket being played. If you’re someone who loves a stunning hotel or place to stay whilst away, well you’re in luck. There are some beautiful villas in Corfu that really do make your trip that extra special. Whether you’re there for the beach, or to see what the city holds, there are villas scattered all around the area for whatever the plan is.

Agios Georgian Pagos is one of the most popular beaches here. Spanning 2 km, it’s a popular windsurfing spot, while there are also calmer sections of water perfect for swimming. You’ll find it in the north-west of the island. Over on the west coast, meanwhile, is the spectacular Myrtiotissa, which is often said to be one of the prettiest beaches in the world – and it’s also among the island’s top nudist beaches.

If you fancy learning more about the island’s heritage, meanwhile, head to Corfu Town. The streets in the old quarter date back to the 14th century.

January 21, 2014 by Jeremy

Top Tourist Attractions In Tunisia

Historic sites and natural landscapes make up the top tourist attractions in Tunisia. Tunisia is a country in North Africa with a Mediterranean coastline.

Situated south of Malta and Italy, two of the most popular European destinations, it has an identity of its own as a tourist hub. If you’re planning a trip to Tunisia, check out the following list for a preview of its best attractions.

1) Bardo Museum

It has a fine collection of Roman mosaics collected throughout the country. Bronze and marble sculptures from the 2nd and 3rd century are also on display. The museum has Islamic and paleo-Christian sections for their respective artifacts.

2) Mediterranean Beaches

Tunisia offers a choice location on the southern portion of the Mediterranean and offers beautiful white sand beaches with crystalline waters. Tunisia has a lot of nice coastline with plenty of great beach towns.

A good option is to find cheap flights to Enfidha and then either take the train or rent a car and explore the area. Enfidha is only 100 km from Tunis and 45 km from Sousse.

3) Sidi Bou Said

It is a picturesque village with whitewashed structures and a variety of intricate architecture. Writers and artists will be easily drawn to its charm.

There are plenty of artsy souvenir shops in Sidi Bou Said. It’s a wonderful place to get lost in for a few hours.

4) Dougga

The extensive Roman site is one of the top tourist attractions in Tunisia. It is a fine example of ancient Roman architecture in North Africa, and as such, is not to be missed!

There are several ancient Roman buildings in the area including a theatre built in 168 AD. Other notable attractions in the area include Capitoline Temple and the Mausoleum of Ateban.

5) Tunis Medina

The old Arab walled town of Tunis is a melting pot of history and culture. Fine Arab-style buildings can be seen throughout the medina but there’s nothing quite like Zitouna Mosque with its square minaret and byzantine columns.

The Dar Hussein Museum of Islamic Art and the 18th century Torbet el Bey are two more interesting places in Tunis Medina. The souqs provide a taste of the Arab culture as they sell locally made goods such as gold, carpets, leather, perfumes, and household materials.

6) El Djem

It is an ancient Roman amphitheater that is surprisingly in better shape than the more popular Coliseum of Rome. El Djem is three stories high and could accommodate up to 30,000 viewers. Underneath the site are some tunnels and dungeons where gladiators, criminals, and wild animals were placed before being sent out to the arena.

Within the area is a museum with a collection of Roman mosaics that comes second to the Bardo Museum. Surely, El Djem is one of the top tourist attractions in Tunisia.

January 2, 2014 by Jeremy

Top Things To Do In London

If one were to think of the top things to do in London, any tourist can come up numerous sets of bucket lists to enjoy this city. London is one of the most popular and fabulous cities in the world, alongside New York City, Tokyo, Shanghai and Paris.

One can safely say that London’s entire history is a microcosm of United Kingdom’s saga. London was already inhabited as early as the Bronze Age era. Sooner around 43 AD it became an important Roman outpost coexisting with a number of older civilizations such as the Anglo-Saxons, the Picts and the Celts.

One can pretty much summarize London’s entire history as a straightforward ascending transition where every important era marks its rise to excellence. Today London remains to be the center of trade and economy in Europe. For ordinary travelers, here are among the recommended activities that will help keep one’s positive memory of London cherished.

1. Tour around Buckingham Palace

Among the top things to do in London for tourists, nothing pales in comparison to the enthusiasm that the public shares in touring around the Buckingham Palace. For a lot of avid visitors, this is considered to be a crowning achievement.

After all, nothing could ever be more prestigious than the residence of the most powerful person in the country (and perhaps even in all of Western Europe). The only catch about this vacation plan is that this tour is available only in summer season. In any other months, the Buckingham Palace is unavailable and highly guarded by the ceremonially immovable Beefeater Guards.

2. Visiting Trafalgar Square

For those who have no clear idea about Trafalgar Square and its prestige, one can simply compare it to New York City’s Central Park. Therefore, this centuries old plaza remains to be the most festive place in England during the New Year’s Eve. This square was built to commemorate Lord Horatio Nelson’s victory against Napoleon Bonaparte in leading the British Royal Navy in the 1805 Battle of Trafalgar.

3. Riding the London Eye

The London Eye remains to be the third largest observation wheel in the world, following the New York Wheel and Dubai Eye. Riding Ferris Wheels is more than just a childhood fascination. It gives tourists a splendid panorama of the entire metropolitan area. The London Eye is more preferable to ride at night because it reduces the chances of vertigo (no clear view of how high you are) and it features the city bathed in swarming lights.

4. Watching live sports events

Another of the top things to do in London can bring about a very exciting vacation experience. This city is host to two of the most popular national sports in the country – tennis and soccer. The Wimbledon tradition dates back as far as the late medieval era. There are important football league schedules one can check in order to get a chance to join the crowd.

5. Hitting a nightclub

After a long day of visiting the various attractions in the city, tourists might want to dance the night away at one of London’s hottest nightclubs. Kodo is an intimate venue that plays funk, soul, and R&B music. It features a lively dance floor, but also has plenty of tables for those who simply want to relax and have a drink. Opium is another hot venue in Soho that hosts a number of celebrity guests every week. Those who love hip-hop music and want the opportunity to party with some of London’s most beautiful people should definitely give it a try.

London is a massive city, but getting around isn’t hard given the very comprehensive metro system known as the tube. A good option for accommodation is staying near the airport at one of the cheaper Heathrow airport hotels. You can access the tube easily, and it’s also much easier to reach the airport when it’s time to fly back out!

December 26, 2013 by Jeremy

Top Reasons To Visit Israel

The top reasons to visit Israel is often steeped in historical and religious undertones. For better or worse, one can define the country of Israel as a land that has its own positive and negative when it comes to the topics of religion and politics.

As far as politics is concerned Israel was a result of United States’ interference in the regional conflict between Arabs and Jews in the Middle East. This part of modern history has become a very unpleasant topic in general media that often put Israel and even the religion of Judaism in a very negative light.

However, when one can find negativity in politics one can also find positivity in tourism. Visiting Israel may not be a bad idea, especially as far as religion and history is concerned.

1. Tell my babe I’m going to Tel Aviv!

If partying and a wonderful nightlife are your top reasons to visit Israel, then you better head straight away to Tel Aviv as soon as your airplane arrives at the airport. Tel Aviv is all about beaches, night clubs and bars. In fact, you may even feel like it’s always summer season in Tel Aviv due to its sunny atmosphere around the coastal resorts. There’s no other city in Middle East that takes getting stuffed, getting drunk and even getting high than in Tel Aviv.

2. Visiting the Holy Land of Abrahamic Faiths

If you despise hedonism and follow a life of deep spirituality, then certainly you can find the best of the top reasons to visit Israel. The Holy City of Jerusalem is not only sacred to the Hebrew people but also to the followers of the succeeding faiths of Christianity and Islam. The Wailing Wall of the Ruined Temple of Solomon is a very sacred landmark for Jews. However, not far from the Jewish holy place lies the Christian Church of the Holy Sepulcher and the Islamic al-Aqsa Mosque in the Dome of Rock. Israel also has famous Christian landmarks outside of Jerusalem, such as Nazareth where Christ used to work as a craftsman and in Galilee where he performed most of his ministry works.

3. Rugged adventure in rugged Negev Desert

Aside from wild parties and a serious spirituality quest, there is also one part of Israel that captures the essence of wholesome adventure that does not require very serious philosophical undertones. People tour the Negev Desert simply because it is a fun experience. Some people’s idea of fun may involve a wild spin with one’s rented four-wheel drive. You can also try riding camels if you want it done in ancient hardcore way. Not a bad idea to pick up some cheap travel insurance as well if you plan to hit the dunes.

4. The Land of Milk and Honey – literally!

When God revealed to the prophets about the land flowing of milk and honey, maybe that revelation extends to the culinary prosperity that people enjoy in modern Israel. The Mediterranean climate makes this land abundant, where diversity of food can give a nice feast. Arab dishes are also very popular.

October 30, 2013 by jfalbelda

Why renting a cottage in the UK is perfect for cosy holidays!

When autumn and winter arrive, sometimes you fancy jetting off to exotic climes and staying in a fancy hotel, dining out every night and spending all day every day sightseeing. Sometimes, though, all you want to do is to escape to a cosy home from home where you can relax and do exactly as you please – even if this means doing nothing more than curling up on the sofa with a good book!

Of course, that may well leave you wondering ‘why go away at all?’, but that’s easy to answer. Anyone who has ever tried having a break from everything at home knows that real life just keeps rearing its head – hence the need to go somewhere different. Booking a country holiday cottage in the UK offers the perfect balance of home and away – here’s why.

thatched roof cottage in the United Kingdom.

Snug and cosy atmosphere

When the weather starts getting cooler, most of us immediately crave a cosier, more snug atmosphere – and this is part of the reason holiday cottages have the edge over hotels. After all, arriving to a soft sofa, fully equipped kitchen, welcoming bedrooms and, if you’re lucky, a roaring fireplace is much better than being greeted by a single hotel room with a meagre bathroom.

And of course, since the cottage is essentially yours for the duration of your stay and there’s plenty of space, there’s scope to make it even cosier still. For instance, you could bring extra cushions and blankets if you love curling up in soft spaces, or you could even pack a few of your favourite creature comforts from home just to make the place feel more like your own.

Cook warming food

One of the best things about renting a holiday cottage is that you’ll have your own kitchen. Now, most people focus on saving money as the main advantage of self-catered accommodation, but really having the ability to cook your own meals is a massive benefit in ensuring you enjoy your stay.

This is especially the case in autumn and winter, if you think about it, because it means you can treat yourself to a leisurely fry-up over the Sunday paper, delicious stews and steaming pies – all of which will not only make you feel at home, but will also be wonderfully warming in the cooler temperatures. And, of course, you can always go out for a meal whenever it suits you or your budget – this versatility is another big plus point.

Have space to socialise

Stay in a hotel and you’ll typically have a bedroom (or perhaps several, if you’ve got kids or are travelling with friends) and a bathroom, plus any lounge areas for guests, should there be any. So, there’s not really anywhere you can easily spend time together in private just talking, watching TV or playing a game.

Staying in a cottage is a different story. As well as having your own bedrooms, there will be plenty of communal space just for you, which makes it a much more social and homely environment. You’ll find this is especially handy in the autumn and winter, when you may well want to spend rainy days or evenings indoors.

Bring the family pet

Of course, if you have a dog, it just doesn’t feel like home without your faithful friend around. And this is another massive bonus of opting to stay in a holiday cottage, since there are so many pet-friendly properties available. So, you really can bring the whole family!