Archive for Europe
Last month, VisitDenmark launched their 2010 ‘Be our Guinea Pig‘ holiday testing programme, giving 2 families and 4 couples the chance to go on a FREE holiday to Denmark. The closing date for applications is noon Friday 26 March, so there’s still time to apply.
Successful applicants will be asked to test different types of activities, transportation and accommodation and document their trip through a short holiday video. The video will be published on the VisitDenmark website.
Commenting on the ‘Guinea Pig’ programme, Henrik Kahn, Director of VisitDenmark said, “This is a fantastic opportunity for enthusiastic and adventurous travellers to experience our wonderfully diverse country whilst documenting their experiences to highlight just how much fun a holiday in Denmark can be. Applicants don’t need to have any experience of writing or photography - just an ability to express themselves in an interesting and original way. All they have to do is choose which holiday they want to apply for, click the appropriate link - and cross their fingers!”
The Guinea Pig holiday test programme is open to all UK residents but certain terms and conditions apply. Each holiday includes accommodation, transport to Denmark (by air or ferry) and the different activities to be tested for each trip. Choose from these six different trips:
- Viking family holiday
- Camping family holiday
- Touring holiday for a couple
- City break to Copenhagen: Summer in the Jazz City
- City break to Copenhagen: Going Green
- City break to Aalborg
Visit the VistDenmark website for more information.
Filed under: Destinations, Europe, Travel News | Free Holiday, Visit Denmark|No Comments
Zakynthos, or Zante as it is more commonly known, is the most southerly of the Ionian Islands. Its beautiful scenery and excellent sandy beaches make it an ideal holiday destination.
But while the 18-30s brigade head to Laganas, the biggest and busiest resort, I was in search of a more natural Zakynthos, somewhere where my children could see for themselves the importance of travelling responsibly.
As one of the last nesting sites of the Loggerhead Sea Turtle, Carreta-carreta, the Gerakas Peninsula is the first protected Marine Park in the Mediterranean. Google ‘relaxing holidays’ and you’ll find a group of villas, cottages and studios in the peaceful, south-eastern tip of Zakynthos.
Managed by Yannis Vardakastanis, an ardent conservationist who grew up on Gerakas, Ionian Eco Villagers provides a quieter, more tranquil alternative, away from the mass tourist resorts.
The verdict: a simple and relaxing break in an enchanting part of Zakynthos.
Ionian Eco Villagers is ideal for families and couples seeking a ‘get away from it all’ holiday with a difference.
With the picture-perfect beach, a few tavernas and a mini market only a 200m stroll away from your accommodation, there’s no real need to go anywhere else if you’re after the simplest of holidays.
Accommodation: We stayed in one of the four 2-bedroom apartments in Gerakas House. Our upstairs apartment was simply, but comfortably furnished. A double bedroom, a twin bedroom, 2 shower rooms and a kitchen, it’s ideal for a family of four. Each bedroom is air conditioned and both have a balcony with table and chairs where you could sit and enjoy the beautiful scenery. The kitchen is equipped with a twin hotplate, toaster/sandwich maker, a fridge, an electric kettle and enough utensils and pans to make a simple meal. The garden with olive and citrus trees offers a relaxing alternative to the beach, with its sun-loungers, hammocks and even swings for the more energetic.
Places to Eat/Shops: The 3 tavernas/bars and mini market are a short stroll from the villas and apartments. The tavernas offer excellent, traditional Greek food and the mini market was surprisingly well stocked; as well as food provisions, it was a useful place to get ice creams and inflatables!
Leisure Activities: Gerakas Beach is a stunning, natural beach. With clear waters and soft sand, this shallow beach is ideal for young families.
Away from the beach, the spectacular scenery and rural charm makes Gerakas the perfect place for mountain biking and walking whether you are a serious walker or just fancy a relaxing stroll.
A highlight is to join one of the eco-tourism catamaran cruises (bookable though the Earth Sea & Sky Information Centre) and enjoy a day cruising in the southern waters of Zakynthos, visiting stunning snorkelling sites. There is a chance to spot the turtles, but, as a ‘sensitive’ tour, the crew makes sure that the rules of the National Marine Park are adhered to eg. stay for a maximum of 10 minutes if a turtle is spotted.
The Information Centre, set up by Yannis, was a great place for us and the children to learn about the Loggerhead Turtles and their plight to survive. Guests and tourists are encouraged to find out more about the turtles and other endangered species.
Service: Yannis is always on hand to help you with any aspect of your stay. One big plus is that your booking with Ionian Eco Villagers includes transfers on arrival/departure, so there really isn’t a need to hire a car. As the tavernas and mini market are family run, the welcome we received was wonderfully warm.
Best time to go: May, June or September, outside the turtle egg hatching months, when the weather is warm (25°C) and there are less crowds. The hottest, busy summer months of July/August are peak season for visitors and daytrippers. Although the National Marine Park limits your stay on the beach to 3 hours in Summer to protect the buried turtle eggs, it’s probably best to avoid this time altogether.
Why choosing this holiday makes a difference:
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By choosing to stay in these locally-owned, small, individual villas and apartments, you are helping local families to make a living. With mass tourism all too evident in Zakynthos, the temptation to sell their land to developers is never too far away, further endangering the survival of the Caretta-caretta.
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Many of the villas and apartments are solar- or wind- powered and use energy-efficient lightbulbs.
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£10 from your booking is donated to Earth Sea & Sky to support their impressive work in protecting the nesting beaches of the Loggerhead turtles.
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Your further donations will also help the current development of a Sea Turtle Hospital in Zakynthos, which will drastically cut the transport time for injured turtles.
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The Earth Sea & Sky Information Centre is a great education for visitors, adults and children alike, on why we should think more responsibly when making travel choices.
Gerakas was week 1 of a two week trip in Summer 2009, part holiday, part research, to explore how feasible and enjoyable a green family summer holiday could be. More on the rest of this trip, including how to get to and from Zakynthos, to follow.
Filed under: Destinations, Europe, Reviews: Hotels, Places to Eat, Destinations, Uncategorized | Apartments, Beach holiday, Green Places|No Comments
For a short break this Autumn, how about watching the celebrations of the 20th anniversary of the Fall of the Berlin Wall?
During 2009 in Berlin, there’s a series of special events and exhibitions to celebrate this moment in history and the ‘peaceful revolution’ that lead to the reunification of Germany and a divided Berlin.
Exhibitions include an open-air exhibition on Alexanderplatz, telling the story of the Peaceful Revolution in 1989/90 leading to the wall’s eventual demise and the ‘Moments in Time’ exhibition, featuring films, photographs and recollections from private individuals and those involved in events.
November 9 will see the climax of the 20th anniversary of the Fall of the Wall at the city’s world-famous landmark, the Brandenburg Gate. At the ‘Festival of Freedom’, some 1000 dominos measuring 2.5 metres in height will be used to create a ‘domino effect’ as a symbolic fall of the Wall.
For more information on what’s on, visit: http://www.visitberlin.de/ and http://www.mauerfall09.de/
Flights from the UK to Berlin are still reasonable eg. £118 return from London Gatwick with Easyjet and there’s a good selection of available hotels.
For more travel tips, sign up to the Your Travel Planner Email Club and keep up-to-date the latest news and travel offers.
Filed under: Destinations, Europe, Travel News | Berlin Wall 20th Anniversary|No Comments
If you’ve left it a bit late to book your summer holiday, you may start feeling very smug when you see some of the late holiday bargains that are currently on offer.
Holiday with Family or Friends
For a late getaway with family and or friends, how about a recently converted barn with six bedrooms, and six ensuite bath or shower-rooms (sleeps 12). Described as ‘very roomy and comfy’, with lovely views across miles of countryside, the barn has its own enclosed, lawned garden, a games/ laundry room and two ponds for a spot of fishing. Late availability: 25% reduction for the week of 21-28 August 2009. Was £2308, now £1731, from Helpful Holidays, ref. G40.
Holiday Villa in Menorca
Save over 40% with this newly built 3 bedroom villa (sleeps 6/8) with private heated pool terraces garden and BBQ, located near Cala Canutells. Late availability: £710 reduction for the week of 31 July -7 August 2009. Was £1700, now £990, from Owners Direct, ref. B3437.
Activity Holiday in Croatia
Combine sea-kayaking around the Croatian islands, coastal walks, mountain biking with local food and wine, mid-day naps and snorkelling. Late availability: 20% discount for remaining rooms due to cancellations for 25 July - 1 August 2009 (double room available) and 1 - 8 August 2009 (double room available). Was £760, now £608 per person, excludes flights, from Responsible Travel, ref. Croatia holiday, activity week.
If you’d like to some help researching more late holiday bargains, please contact me at www.go2research.com/contact_Go2.php.
Filed under: Cottages, Destinations, Europe, Responsible Tourism, Saving Money on 2009 Holidays | Late Holiday Bargains|No Comments
Someone asked me the other day whether Sweden was a good destination for a family holiday. The answer is a resounding ‘Yes’.
Sweden is a fantastic summer holiday destination, offering interesting cities combined with exceptional natural scenery. It’s very child-friendly, has an agreeable summer climate and is only 2 hours away by plane. A week in the city could be combined with a week exploring the nature and wildlife that Sweden has to offer.
Compared to southern Europe, Sweden is expensive, but there are ways you can reduce the hit on your pocket and with the Swedish Kroner around 12.9 SEK to the British Pound, it’s not as expensive as it was last year.
So what are the Things to Do for a family holiday in Sweden?
Both Sweden’s archipelagic capital, Stockholm, and its second city Gothenburg offer city sightseeing at a relaxed pace, with plenty to do with the children and great cultural sights to see for the adults.
Stockholm
Stockholm is a most beautiful capital city, built on 14 islands. The Old Town is particularly spectacular, and walking around the city’s waterways and parks is a lovely way to spend a week. It can also be a lively city, with its maritime bent and international flavour. Recommended things to do include:
- Gamla Stan: take a stroll through the narrow streets of the old town
- Gröna Lund Tivoli: a great (though not cheap) theme park on the relaxed island of Djurgården
- Stockholm Archipelago: you can take a boat trip to the many islands on the archipelago.
Gothenburg
Gothenburg is a cosmopolitan city with a small town charm. It’s a compact city to get around and has plenty to see and do. Recommended things to do include:
- Paddan Boats: These open-topped boats will take you through the old Moat, under 20 bridges and on 17th century canals, giving a unique view of the city and its open harbour.
- Liseberg: a great amusement park on the edge of the city centre (use the city’s extensive tram network to get there). It has 36 rides and attractions - from gentle carousels to heart-in-the-mouth rides such as Uppswinget, Kanonen and Balder (voted several times the “Best Wooden Roller Coaster in the World”).
- Universeum: a fantastic museum to experience the Ocean, the Rain Forest and Space all in one day.
If you’d like to learn more about Sweden as a family holiday destination, please feel free to contact me at www.go2research.com/contact_Go2.php.
Filed under: Destinations, Europe, Uncategorized | Family Holiday, Stockholm, Sweden, Things to Do Stockholm|No Comments
Keeping the family entertained doesn’t have to break the bank. There are loads of FREE Things to Do in London for families during the May Half Term. Your Travel Planner shares some suggestions.
South Bank Centre
The South Bank Centre has plenty of free events on for children and families during the May half-term, with most taking place in the Clore Ballroom. Below is a selection, but see the South Bank website for more information:
West End Family Fun; Tuesday, 26 May 2009
To celebrate National Family week, Southbank Centre teams up with the West End to bring you a day of workshops, singalongs, dancealongs and the opportunity to see a live extract from one of the best musicals currently running in the West End.
Half Term Family Workshops; Wednesday 27 - Friday 29 May 2009
Families can drop in for workshops that will get all the family working and playing together.
Gluemouth; Wednesday 27 - Friday 29 May 2009
Gluemouth is a new show that will inspire young poets. Laura Dockrill will perform some of her new poems for children in this unique family event.
The Magnets; Wednesday 27 - Friday 29 May 2009
The UK’s leading ‘all vocal’ band lead a singing workshop in which groups of children and their families learn different parts of well known songs.
Free Swimming
As part of a scheme supported by central government to encourage people to adopt more healthy lifestyles, many local authorities now offer free swimming for under 16 year olds (and over 60s). So if grandparents take their grandchildren, you can all go for free!
You can check here for a list of local authorities in London where you can swim for free.
Free Tennis
It’s not just swimming. Tennis for Free is an initiative to allow the public to play tennis for free. You can search the list of local authorities by area to see where there are free courts and free coaching.
Mercedes-Benz World
Mercedes-Benz World at Brooklands in Weybridge is a great day out if you’re a motoring fan. Free May Half Term activities include spectacular shows from the Silver Arrows Display Team, passenger laps and F1 presentations.
Free London Museums
Visiting London means that you have access to world class and lesser known museums, with most offering free admission. All have special activities for the May Half Term. Your Travel Planner favourites include the Science Museum, Natural History Museum and the British Museum.
Know of any other FREE things to do in the May Half Term? Please share it with Your Travel Planner readers by posting it as a comment. Thank you.
Filed under: Destinations, Europe, Travel Tips | Half Term ideas London, Things to Do|No Comments
Taking a holiday in the eurozone this year may be cheaper than you think, according to the annual Holiday Costs Barometer from Post Office Travel Services.
The Post Office Holiday Costs Barometer provides prices for a basket of 10 goods typically bought by holidaymakers - including meals and drinks - from 18 holiday destinations.
Bulgaria, Turkey and Croatia are Europe’s best buys, but Spain and Portugal are two countries in the eurozone that have made it to the top 10.
Sarah Munro, Post Office head of travel services said: “The eurozone has taken a bashing this year but our survey suggests that tourist outlets in many resorts are taking dramatic steps to encourage tourists. Despite the weak pound, this means that UK tourists who shop carefully could find that they get more than expected for their money.”
Your Travel Planner says, “This is great news for people who are still considering a holiday in the more traditional European destinations. If you can book your transportation and accommodation in Pounds, eurozone countries could still be a viable option for people on strict budgets.”
To read more on this story, see the announcement from the Post Office or the article on the Guardian website.
Filed under: Destinations, Europe, Saving Money on 2009 Holidays, Travel News | Europe, Eurozone, Holiday in Europe|No Comments
The Easter holidays are fast approaching. If you’re looking for Things to Do for families over Easter, Your Travel Planner shares some suggestions.
Easter Egg Hunts
Which child does not love an Easter Egg Hunt? Over 200 National Trust properties will be running Easter trails and egg hunts (supported by Cadbury), including at these properties close to London:
Ightham Mote, Kent; 10 April; 11am to 4pm; Claremont Landscape Garden, Surrey; 10 &11 April, 10am to 4pm; Waddesdon Manor, Buckinghamshire; 13 April, 11am to 4pm
Days Out
There’s more Easter fun to be had on a day out. Join in the Easter Treasure Hunt at Wisley Gardens, Surrey on 10-13 April.
Kew Gardens is celebrating 250 years in 2009. Visit the Rhizotron and Xstrata Treetop walkway that takes you under the ground and then 18 metres (59ft) up in the air.
Wallace & Gromit Present: A World of Cracking Ideas is a new family-oriented exhibition from the Science Museum, presenting the stories behind essential inventions from the printing press to the telephone. Encounter the devices as you explore Wallace and Gromit’s house. On from 28 Mar to 1 Nov.
A bit further afield, the Roald Dahl Museum and Story Centre in Buckinghamshire has some fantastic activities over the two weeks. Children can make their own whizpopping rockets on Tues, 7 April during George’s Marvellous Experiments, or grab the chance to ask Val Rutt, author of The Mystery of the Darkstone, anything they ever wanted to know about being a writer (Thurs 16 April), plus the usual Easter trail and egg decorating during the Easter weekend.
Theatre
Theatre doesn’t have to be all West End. Try some local theatre this Easter. The family favourite, The Jolly Postman, is on at The Polka Theatre, Wimbledon until 9 May (suitable for 4-7 year olds). The Richmond Theatre presents The Wizard of Oz from Mon, 13 April to Sat, 18 April and Annie is on at the Secombe Theatre in Sutton until 4 April.
Short Breaks and Holidays
In the current climate, staying in the UK will be a popular option for families. Haven Holidays seem to have plenty of availability during Easter, prices from £109* for 3 nights. Helpful Holidays, who specialise in cottages in the West Country, also have availability and special offers during Easter, including 20% of a 2 bedroom cottage (sleeps 4) in Olchard, near Torbay, South Devon (property ref: B8). Available 11 April for a week, original price £391, now £292.
Despite the weak pound against the euro, Europe during Easter may be feasible if the holiday price is reasonable. Canvas Holidays are offering 7 nights in a mobile home in Brittanny for £199*, departing 4 April, including the ferry crossing.
Please note that all prices and availability shown are correct at the time of posting (31 March 2009).
Filed under: Destinations, Europe | Easter Holidays, Things to Do|1 Comment
Crete, the largest island in Greece, is one of Europe’s most popular holiday destinations. Soft, sandy beaches, mountain ranges, dramatic gorges and archaeological sites make this a fascinating and diverse island to visit.
I met Annette Kirkley, a therapeutic, sports and remedial masseuse, at one of my regular networking meetings. She described her stay at Viglatoras, an agrotourism farm with traditional apartments, so enthusiastically that I asked her to send Your Travel Planner a review:
Viglatoras is situated on the edge of the small village of Sarchos, half an hour’s drive south from the centre of Heraklion, in a beautiful valley, and so within easy reach of sites such as Knossos. Surrounded by their olive grove, and vineyards, the house, is beautifully rustic, but with good amenities, and a second building houses 4 or 5 rooms for guests.
Anastasia, who speaks good English, does all the admin, her mother is a fabulous cook, and provides huge meals (dinner can be ordered) and I think runs cookery classes in the summer. They overwhelmed us with their hospitality, and the locals also went to extraordinary lengths to help us.
You do need a hire car and a bit of courage to navigate the local small roads which tend to lack signposting, but it’s worth the effort. Visit www.viglatoras.gr for more information.
If you have a review of your favourite place, why not share it with Your Travel Planner. Please contact me at www.go2research.com/contact_Go2.php.
Filed under: Destinations, Europe, Reviews: Hotels, Places to Eat, Destinations | Agritourism, Apartments, Crete, Heraklion, Your Travel Planner|No Comments
Mother’s Day is on 22nd March this year (UK) and while I’ve been in holiday planning mode, it occurred to me: how often do we treat our mums to a weekend away?
You only have to look through the Your Travel Planner archives for some great places to take your mum. The flight prices shown are as of a search today (for departure Friday 21 March, return Monday 23 March), but obviously these prices could change:
Or how about treating your mum to a SpaFinder Gift Voucher for Mother’s Day? A spa voucher means your mum will be able to choose how, when and where she enjoys her gift and it can be used at more than 300 spas in UK or at more than 5,000 spas worldwide. At the moment, you can save 10% and get free shipping until March 22nd.
Filed under: Destinations, Europe | Algarve, Bed & Breakfast, Portugal, Spa Finder Gift Vouchers, St Tropez, the grove resort hotel hertfordshire, Your Travel Planner|1 Comment
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