Some of my clients dread the holiday season because it often represents stress, pressure, expectations, guilt, disappointment, pain, loneliness, exhaustion... and the list goes on.
This is a choice. We choose who we spend time with. We choose what activities we say yes and no to. We choose where we go. Your holiday season can be as simple or as elaborate as you choose to make it, and it can be a lot of fun if you plan accordingly.
Take some time this week to think about what's most important to you this season, and then do a little planning. Here are some suggestions to help.
==> Create a list of holiday rituals that are important to you.
Seek your family's input on holiday decisions. Ask family members what they liked and disliked about last year's holidays. Write down the most important elements and activities you wish to include this year, and plan to make it happen.
Keeping time-consuming and irrelevant traditions or rituals "just because we've always done it that way" can increase stress. Keep only those traditions that have meaning to you, or create some new ones.
Give yourself permission to be in the moment and enjoy the smells, sounds, feel, and tastes that are unique to this season of the year.
==> Make a list of those you want to spend time with during the holidays.
Who nourishes you? Who are the family members, friends, and colleagues you enjoy being with?
Do you want to do any entertaining? If so, when and with whom? Plan ahead and ask for help if you want it. True friends and loved ones will not care how many hours you slaved over the stove. Spending time with you is what they'll cherish most. You don't have to be Martha Stewart to throw a great party!
Are you invited to holiday parties that you really don't want to go to, but you've gone in the past because you should? Be at choice -- don't play the victim! This is not about whom you should see, but rather whom you choose to spend time with.
==> Mail your greeting cards, holiday letters, and packages early.
Some time-saving tips:
Write a short holiday letter that covers the highlights; copy it on holiday paper and add a note at the end to personalize it. Make a collage of pictures to photocopy on the back side of the letter.
Use self-adhesive return labels. These labels are inexpensive and often come with festive holiday designs. One great online source for these is Walter Drake at http://www.wdrake.com. Colorful Images is another source. They can be reached at 800-458-7999.
If you have your addresses on a computerized database, consider printing out your mailing list on clear address labels. Years ago, an old college friend commented that she thought it was tacky to use address labels on holiday cards and letters. I told her that my choice was to either use labels or not mail our annual holiday letter to the 250 people on our list. Now that she has a young family, I've noticed she has started using address labels, too!
E-mail a holiday letter to those with whom you correspond electronically. You can easily personalize this for each recipient. Attach color photos highlighting the past year. Another alternative is to create a holiday web page, and include the link to it in a personalized e-mail message.
Mail packages early to avoid longer lines at the post office and ensure they will arrive in time. Or, better yet, sign up with Stamps.com and avoid the lines altogether. You can mail large packages without standing in any lines -- as long as you have an accurate way to weigh them before you purchase postage online.
==> Thoughtfully plan your gift-giving.
Give from the heart... not out of obligation. Decide whom you choose to give to and make a list. This will help you avoid overspending through impulse buying.
If you think back to the most cherished gifts you have received, they are often homemade or from the heart. A gift of time -- such as a gift certificate redeemable for an activity you can do together -- can be very meaningful. Among the most prized gifts I've ever received have been homemade cards with a heartfelt note written inside. Value goes far beyond the cost of the gift.
A great resource for homemade gift ideas is a book called The Perfect Mix. It contains creative edible gift ideas, including wrapping suggestions and tag instructions, along with a source guide for supplies. The book offers more than 90 recipes for soups, breads, muffins, cookies, and other gifts. The gifts I've created from this book have been very well received and appreciated.
Instead of exchanging gifts with friends, consider having a holiday or post-holiday party with them.
Avoid parking hassles, gridlock traffic around the malls, and long lines at the register by shopping online and through catalogs. A number of retail stores now offer merchandise online, as well. If you are purchasing a gift that needs to be mailed, you can arrange to have it sent directly to the recipient, thus avoiding the extra steps of wrapping, labeling, and mailing the gift.
Spread out your purchase of gifts over the weeks of November and early December. It's easier on the budget, and less stressful than waiting until the last minute.
Wrapping gifts can take a lot of time. Instead of wrapping all of them, use a gift bag with a nice bow tied at the top, or use a decorated gift box.
Consider giving an alternative gift to a friend or loved one by giving to a charity in their name. One of my favorite charities is Heifer Project International. Through living gifts of animals, HPI is helping families worldwide to become self-reliant. You can buy an animal that can change the life of a hungry family and at the same time honor family and friends. Visit HPI's "gift catalog" at http://catalog.heifer.org/index.cfm.
==> Spread the holiday cheer with those in need.
Volunteer to serve a holiday meal to the homeless, work in a soup kitchen, or work at a food bank.
Adopt a family for the holidays and provide them with gifts or holiday foods. Many churches and non-profit organizations can match you with a needy family.
Look for a Giving Tree in your local retail stores. The tree is filled with cards that list a specific gift desired by someone in need. You select a card off the tree, purchase the suggested gift listed on the card, and return the gift to the tree with the card attached. The store wraps the gift and delivers it to the intended recipient.
The end of the tax year is a great time to review your budget and consider a year-end gift to your favorite charities. This can represent a significant tax deduction if you itemize, while doing great things locally and globally.
==> Use your calendar.
Now that you're clear about your intentions, calendar them in. Writing them down for follow-up on a specific date will help you to remember to do it and will keep things from falling to the last minute. Here is a list of activities you can pencil in on your calendar:
Schedule family meeting to discuss plans and intentions for the holiday season
Make airline, hotel, and rental car arrangements (if traveling out of town for the holidays)-- ASAP!
Holiday decorating (indoor, outdoor, office, etc.)
Finalize holiday entertainment plan and guest list
Mail invitations or call to invite others to events you have planned
Meal planning and preparation (can some cooking be done ahead of time and frozen?)
Prepare gift list
Holiday gift making/holiday baking
Gift selection & purchase
Gift wrapping
Prepare mailing list or database for holiday cards/letters/e-mails
Prepare holiday cards, letters, e-mails, Website
Mail cards, letters, packages
Gather information about volunteer opportunities and calendar in activities you choose to do
Finalize charitable giving plan for 2000
Happy holiday organizing!
Friday, January 22, 2010
Top Holiday Destinations For British Holiday Makers
8 hours on a plane is a day wasted but nowhere 2 hours away is warm enough or far enough for me to really feel like I'm on holiday. So, where I ask myself is the best holiday destination from London and other parts of UK for us Brits?
The ideal flight time for me is 4-5 hours and looking on the world map, there are a host of warm, luxurious and relaxing destinations within that flying time. Shame, none of the travel companies like Best at Travel, Kuoni, Virgin Holidays, Letsgo2 or Holiday Hypermarket ever consider that. You end up searching these sites for hours with a highly confused state of mind. Having been through this, I decided to post a little research for those facing the same dilemma as me.
So, which are the best Holiday destinations for people flying from the UK?
This listing will help you find your next holiday.
First, where do us Brits go most on holiday? I went through some search records on Google and found the following:
Top Holiday Destinations (by number of travellers from UK every year)
1. Spain holidays Since Spain is the most popular holiday destination for us Brits with over a million searches a month, I've divided Spain into regions to fully calculate its popularity.
Majorca holidays - Majorca or Mallorca is heaven. I've been there myself. With a vibrant nightlife and amazing scenic views and beaches, this largest of all Spanish island tops Spanish holiday charts with over 300,000 monthly searches for Majorca alone. If you're looking for a party place or an opportunity to be in the quiet surrounded by nature, Majorca is your best bet.
Tenerife holidays - Tenerife is the largest of the 7 canary Islands in the Atlantic ocean. Just off the coast of Morocco, Africa, this Spanish territory commands the status of one of the most popular tourist destinations around the world. As they say, the place where spring never ends, Tenerife is the highest point of Spain with its Mount Teide volcano. The temperature averages 20 degrees celcius throughout the year and is considered to be the best in the world by many. 320,000 searches online every month.
Gran Canaria holidays - Also one of the seven canary islands, the Gran Canaria is the second largest and second most populated after Tenerife. Volcanic in nature, The Gran Canaria offers a unique natural experience, with fissure vents, different soil and vegetation. The Gran Canaria is famous for its family holidays and is full of well appointed resorts. 180,000 monthly searches.
Ibiza holidays - Ibiza is a beautiful little Spanish island located in the Mediterranean sea that has become hugely popular as a holiday top spot in the last 35 years. What makes Ibiza special is the extended coast line of sandy beaches, a chilled out way of life and seclusion. As all Spanish holidays, Ibiza town will offer you a buzzing nightlife and for those looking for peace and quiet, there are plenty of resorts surrounded by nature and tranquility. 135,000 searches per month.
Other notable Spanish holiday destinations - With a 100,000 British people searching for holiday packages in Benidorm, this is the 5th most popular Spanish holiday destination followed by Costa del Sol at 60,000 searches and Lanzarote (another beautiful canary island) with 55,000 searches. Recommended - Spain holidays
If you haven't yet experienced a Spanish holiday, you haven't yet been on your best holiday. Majorca alone gets 2.5 million British holiday makers a year and 2008 was a record high.
2. Cyprus holidays - Cyprus is the number 2 holiday destination for us Brits. On average, 400,000 of us search for Cyprus holidays online every month. Yes! Every Month! No wonder I've been to Cyprus twice myself. In Cyprus, most popular spots are Limassol and Paphos - Paphos is full of ancient sites as old as 4th century BC, lies in the southwest of Cyprus and is a world heritage site by UNESCO. Limassol is the capital of southern Cyprus and is a popular shopping destination.
3. Turkey holidays - With just under 400,000 searches on Google alone, Turkey is the third most visited holiday destination for British holiday makers. The ex-Ottoman empire with a taste of Asia within Europe, Turkey is a top holiday destination where you'll find snow-capped mountains and sunny beaches at a few hours' distance. Istanbul, the largest city is where we flock most to, to live the Sultan size life for a few relaxing days.
4. Greece holidays - Close on the heels of Turkey, Greece holidays are very popular amonst British people. With just under 400,000 searches online a month, we love Greece, especially the Island of Crete. Crete, as legend goes, was where the Greek God Zeus was born and is the present resting place of Greek Gods. The southern-most of all Greek islands, Crete is the meeting point of Africa, Asia and Europe. If you're looking for a busy, choc-a-block resort holiday, Greece is the place for you, where not UK holiday makers, but tourists from all over the world flck in great numbers.
5. Egypt holidays - Enter Africa - Egypt is our 5th most visited holiday destination and top-most in Africa. With 320,000 searches every month, we Brits get-away to Egypt often during the winter. The gorgeous clear waters of river Nile, 5000%2B years of history, tourist attractions like the pyramids and cities like the Sharm El Sheikh (the city of Peace) surrounded by the Red sea and Mount Sinai are top reasons for Egypt being a top holiday destination. I've been to Egypt twice and I'm in love with that place. People are friendly and forthcoming.
6. America Holidays
Las Vegas holidays - I would have imagined America to be much higher up in the list of our top holiday destinations, but the long plane journeys and shortage of natural beauty are two major reasons why most people visit the United States for its advancements, not untouched natural places. Las Vegas leads as one of USA's top holiday destinations. The city most popular for its casinos, gambling and high lifestyle attracts us Brits in large numbers every year.
New York city breaks -The world's capital city as its popularly known is the centre of all action. The list of tourist attractions is longer than London's and if you're expecting to get away, beware, you're getting back into the mad rush. New York is a great weekend or short stay holiday destination if haven't seen the Statue of Liberty or Madison Square Gardens.
Florida holidays - The sunshine state of the US - Fun doesn't end any time of the year in Florida. With 3 of the world's best amusement parks - Disneyland, Seaworld and Universal, Florida is also the world's amusement capital. Great place for family holidays.
7. Italy holidays - With 240,000 searches a month, Italy comes at number 6. Italy is made of two islands - Sicily and Sardinia. Sicily is the mainland region of Italy where holiday makers go in search of Roman empire history, leaning tower of Pisa, the Colosseums and Rome. Sicily is the largest Mediterranean island. Sardinia or Sardegna is a top holiday destination, famous for its natural beauty and beaches.
8. Caribbean Holidays - Caribbean Islands stand out as holiday destinations for the Americans (because of the proximity and short flights), but Europeans are not far behind. At a combined 200,000 searches per month from UK, The Caribbean is a fast growing holiday destination amongst us. The Caribbean refers to the Caribbean sea, islands in that sea and nearby coastal areas. Top holiday destinations within the Caribbean are Antigua holidays, St Lucia holidays, Jamaica holidays, Cuba holidays and Barbados holidays. Lying between North and South America, the Caribbean is famous for its holidays - from Golfing to sky-diving, fine dining to clubbing, there's nothing the Caribbean doesn't offer. That, at a time when Britain is freezing! No wonder, with recent media coverage, Caribbean holidays are busier than ever before.
9. Malta holidays - Coming back to Europe, Malta is a gorgeous island with an English connection. After gaining independence from United Kingdom in 1964, Malta developed itself as a top holiday destination. With English spoken widely, British people face no language barriers and holidays are even more fun. This Mediterranean island country offers some unique features like fishing villages, and a combination of Byzantine, Arab, Phoenician and St John Knights' culture, architecture and cuisine. 160,000 monthly searches.
10. Dubai holidays - The world's highest man made structure, world's first under water restaurant, world's first palm housing, world's longest shopping mall, world's first indoor ski system and world's highest tennis court are just the tip of the iceberg. Dubai - The city of the world's firsts opened its doors to the new world and we all visited in large number. Today, Dubai is the top holiday destination in the Middle East. With 150,000 searching for Dubai holidays every month, Dubai stands out amongst the 7 Emirates in UAE. With desert, beaches and mountains to offer, sunny holidays don;t get much better.
11. Maldives holidays - The paradise islands, as the 1 thousand two hundred fascinating Maldives islands are affectionately called, offer crystal clear waters and desert sands in the middle of Indian ocean. With 80 self sufficient islands cum resorts, you're never short of natural beauty, peace and tranquility. The top "get away from it all" holiday destination Maldives won't disappoint you. 120,000 curious British holiday makers search Maldives holidays every month.
12. Goa holidays - Further East, Goa is an English holiday maker's favourite Indian holiday destination. With Churches and Temples co-existing in this city they call "Tropical Paradise", you'll find miles of beautiful palm tree beaches and acres of windy paddy fields. Adding to its charm are old fortresses, wide roads and motor cycle hires. The Portuguese were defeated off Goa in 1961 by the Indian army and since then, Goa has grown into the most popular holiday destination within India. With an offshore casino, saturday markets by resident British people and a rock music culture, Goa will give you unforgettable memories. Or you might end up in Goa longer than you planned, like many others. 100,000 searches.
13. Thailand holidays - Further east from India, welcome to Thailand. Best time to visit is between June and October. The capital city of Thailand - Bangkok boats of some of the world's top 5 star hotels and is famous for its hospitality. Visit Thailand for a crash course in culture diversity and hospitality.100,000 searches.
14. Australia holidays - Melbourne is 22 hours and 30 minutes away from London. You better not plan a weekend break to Australia. A gorgeous country that holiday makers love, Australia is number 20 in this list only for its distance from the UK. Australia has everything from coral beaches, skyscrapers, nightlife, peace and tranquility, great standards of life, extreme sports - you name it. A great place for a long holiday, I rate Australia as one of my top holiday destinations and a must visit. Make sure you take out at least a couple of weeks to enjoy Australia fully.
15. Mauritius holidays - They say the beauty of Mauritius is its people. With clear waters, white sandy beaches and year-round holiday making, Mauritius is Asia's Spain. Tourists from India, China, Japan and other far east countries keep Mauritius abuzz the year round with traditional dances, customs and delicious seafood. Being close to mainland Africa, in the summer, Mauritius can be very hot and humid, and therefore the best time to visit is July to September (their winter). With British and French history, you won't face many language problems in this Indian ocean holiday destination. 70,000 searches.
16. Bali - The tiny yet perfect Indonesian island of Bali is the center of all action and one of Indonesia's top holiday destinations. Visit Bali for white sand beaches, awe-aspiring cliffs, nightlife and to submerge into the truly multicultural environment. 35,000 monthly searches for Bali holidays.
17. South Africa holidays - When you mention any part of Africa for holidays, wildlife plays an important role and South Africa is no different. South Africa is UK's top holiday destination in Africa for the British colonial connection. Amongst others, Port Elizabeth, Cape Town and Durban offer the best natural views and beaches. 30,000 monthly searches.
18. Hong Kong holidays - A few years ago, Hong Kong was a British territory. Now a part of China, Hong Kong is the most happening place in the far east. This majorly Buddhist city is a remarkable example of success of Capitalism and offers towering hotels, world's most modern luxuries and one of the most popular holiday destination within Hong Kong is Kowloon. For some peace, you can travel to the Sai Kung peninsula. 27,000 monthly searches.
Still not sure where to go? If you don't mind where you go, and you're more focused on the kind of holiday, you may end up saving substantial sums of money. My best bet while booking a holiday is calling one of my favourite agencies - Best at Travel or Directline Holidays and just chatting to an advisor regarding what's cheap this season. I've always found Best at Travel and Directline saving me money.
Try looking for Cruises, Luxury Holidays, Spa holidays, Safaris or Honeymoons. This will help you check packages and make your decision-making easier.
Still not clear, or have a question, post it as a comment below. Either me of one of te readers will help you out. Happy Holidays.
The ideal flight time for me is 4-5 hours and looking on the world map, there are a host of warm, luxurious and relaxing destinations within that flying time. Shame, none of the travel companies like Best at Travel, Kuoni, Virgin Holidays, Letsgo2 or Holiday Hypermarket ever consider that. You end up searching these sites for hours with a highly confused state of mind. Having been through this, I decided to post a little research for those facing the same dilemma as me.
So, which are the best Holiday destinations for people flying from the UK?
This listing will help you find your next holiday.
First, where do us Brits go most on holiday? I went through some search records on Google and found the following:
Top Holiday Destinations (by number of travellers from UK every year)
1. Spain holidays Since Spain is the most popular holiday destination for us Brits with over a million searches a month, I've divided Spain into regions to fully calculate its popularity.
Majorca holidays - Majorca or Mallorca is heaven. I've been there myself. With a vibrant nightlife and amazing scenic views and beaches, this largest of all Spanish island tops Spanish holiday charts with over 300,000 monthly searches for Majorca alone. If you're looking for a party place or an opportunity to be in the quiet surrounded by nature, Majorca is your best bet.
Tenerife holidays - Tenerife is the largest of the 7 canary Islands in the Atlantic ocean. Just off the coast of Morocco, Africa, this Spanish territory commands the status of one of the most popular tourist destinations around the world. As they say, the place where spring never ends, Tenerife is the highest point of Spain with its Mount Teide volcano. The temperature averages 20 degrees celcius throughout the year and is considered to be the best in the world by many. 320,000 searches online every month.
Gran Canaria holidays - Also one of the seven canary islands, the Gran Canaria is the second largest and second most populated after Tenerife. Volcanic in nature, The Gran Canaria offers a unique natural experience, with fissure vents, different soil and vegetation. The Gran Canaria is famous for its family holidays and is full of well appointed resorts. 180,000 monthly searches.
Ibiza holidays - Ibiza is a beautiful little Spanish island located in the Mediterranean sea that has become hugely popular as a holiday top spot in the last 35 years. What makes Ibiza special is the extended coast line of sandy beaches, a chilled out way of life and seclusion. As all Spanish holidays, Ibiza town will offer you a buzzing nightlife and for those looking for peace and quiet, there are plenty of resorts surrounded by nature and tranquility. 135,000 searches per month.
Other notable Spanish holiday destinations - With a 100,000 British people searching for holiday packages in Benidorm, this is the 5th most popular Spanish holiday destination followed by Costa del Sol at 60,000 searches and Lanzarote (another beautiful canary island) with 55,000 searches. Recommended - Spain holidays
If you haven't yet experienced a Spanish holiday, you haven't yet been on your best holiday. Majorca alone gets 2.5 million British holiday makers a year and 2008 was a record high.
2. Cyprus holidays - Cyprus is the number 2 holiday destination for us Brits. On average, 400,000 of us search for Cyprus holidays online every month. Yes! Every Month! No wonder I've been to Cyprus twice myself. In Cyprus, most popular spots are Limassol and Paphos - Paphos is full of ancient sites as old as 4th century BC, lies in the southwest of Cyprus and is a world heritage site by UNESCO. Limassol is the capital of southern Cyprus and is a popular shopping destination.
3. Turkey holidays - With just under 400,000 searches on Google alone, Turkey is the third most visited holiday destination for British holiday makers. The ex-Ottoman empire with a taste of Asia within Europe, Turkey is a top holiday destination where you'll find snow-capped mountains and sunny beaches at a few hours' distance. Istanbul, the largest city is where we flock most to, to live the Sultan size life for a few relaxing days.
4. Greece holidays - Close on the heels of Turkey, Greece holidays are very popular amonst British people. With just under 400,000 searches online a month, we love Greece, especially the Island of Crete. Crete, as legend goes, was where the Greek God Zeus was born and is the present resting place of Greek Gods. The southern-most of all Greek islands, Crete is the meeting point of Africa, Asia and Europe. If you're looking for a busy, choc-a-block resort holiday, Greece is the place for you, where not UK holiday makers, but tourists from all over the world flck in great numbers.
5. Egypt holidays - Enter Africa - Egypt is our 5th most visited holiday destination and top-most in Africa. With 320,000 searches every month, we Brits get-away to Egypt often during the winter. The gorgeous clear waters of river Nile, 5000%2B years of history, tourist attractions like the pyramids and cities like the Sharm El Sheikh (the city of Peace) surrounded by the Red sea and Mount Sinai are top reasons for Egypt being a top holiday destination. I've been to Egypt twice and I'm in love with that place. People are friendly and forthcoming.
6. America Holidays
Las Vegas holidays - I would have imagined America to be much higher up in the list of our top holiday destinations, but the long plane journeys and shortage of natural beauty are two major reasons why most people visit the United States for its advancements, not untouched natural places. Las Vegas leads as one of USA's top holiday destinations. The city most popular for its casinos, gambling and high lifestyle attracts us Brits in large numbers every year.
New York city breaks -The world's capital city as its popularly known is the centre of all action. The list of tourist attractions is longer than London's and if you're expecting to get away, beware, you're getting back into the mad rush. New York is a great weekend or short stay holiday destination if haven't seen the Statue of Liberty or Madison Square Gardens.
Florida holidays - The sunshine state of the US - Fun doesn't end any time of the year in Florida. With 3 of the world's best amusement parks - Disneyland, Seaworld and Universal, Florida is also the world's amusement capital. Great place for family holidays.
7. Italy holidays - With 240,000 searches a month, Italy comes at number 6. Italy is made of two islands - Sicily and Sardinia. Sicily is the mainland region of Italy where holiday makers go in search of Roman empire history, leaning tower of Pisa, the Colosseums and Rome. Sicily is the largest Mediterranean island. Sardinia or Sardegna is a top holiday destination, famous for its natural beauty and beaches.
8. Caribbean Holidays - Caribbean Islands stand out as holiday destinations for the Americans (because of the proximity and short flights), but Europeans are not far behind. At a combined 200,000 searches per month from UK, The Caribbean is a fast growing holiday destination amongst us. The Caribbean refers to the Caribbean sea, islands in that sea and nearby coastal areas. Top holiday destinations within the Caribbean are Antigua holidays, St Lucia holidays, Jamaica holidays, Cuba holidays and Barbados holidays. Lying between North and South America, the Caribbean is famous for its holidays - from Golfing to sky-diving, fine dining to clubbing, there's nothing the Caribbean doesn't offer. That, at a time when Britain is freezing! No wonder, with recent media coverage, Caribbean holidays are busier than ever before.
9. Malta holidays - Coming back to Europe, Malta is a gorgeous island with an English connection. After gaining independence from United Kingdom in 1964, Malta developed itself as a top holiday destination. With English spoken widely, British people face no language barriers and holidays are even more fun. This Mediterranean island country offers some unique features like fishing villages, and a combination of Byzantine, Arab, Phoenician and St John Knights' culture, architecture and cuisine. 160,000 monthly searches.
10. Dubai holidays - The world's highest man made structure, world's first under water restaurant, world's first palm housing, world's longest shopping mall, world's first indoor ski system and world's highest tennis court are just the tip of the iceberg. Dubai - The city of the world's firsts opened its doors to the new world and we all visited in large number. Today, Dubai is the top holiday destination in the Middle East. With 150,000 searching for Dubai holidays every month, Dubai stands out amongst the 7 Emirates in UAE. With desert, beaches and mountains to offer, sunny holidays don;t get much better.
11. Maldives holidays - The paradise islands, as the 1 thousand two hundred fascinating Maldives islands are affectionately called, offer crystal clear waters and desert sands in the middle of Indian ocean. With 80 self sufficient islands cum resorts, you're never short of natural beauty, peace and tranquility. The top "get away from it all" holiday destination Maldives won't disappoint you. 120,000 curious British holiday makers search Maldives holidays every month.
12. Goa holidays - Further East, Goa is an English holiday maker's favourite Indian holiday destination. With Churches and Temples co-existing in this city they call "Tropical Paradise", you'll find miles of beautiful palm tree beaches and acres of windy paddy fields. Adding to its charm are old fortresses, wide roads and motor cycle hires. The Portuguese were defeated off Goa in 1961 by the Indian army and since then, Goa has grown into the most popular holiday destination within India. With an offshore casino, saturday markets by resident British people and a rock music culture, Goa will give you unforgettable memories. Or you might end up in Goa longer than you planned, like many others. 100,000 searches.
13. Thailand holidays - Further east from India, welcome to Thailand. Best time to visit is between June and October. The capital city of Thailand - Bangkok boats of some of the world's top 5 star hotels and is famous for its hospitality. Visit Thailand for a crash course in culture diversity and hospitality.100,000 searches.
14. Australia holidays - Melbourne is 22 hours and 30 minutes away from London. You better not plan a weekend break to Australia. A gorgeous country that holiday makers love, Australia is number 20 in this list only for its distance from the UK. Australia has everything from coral beaches, skyscrapers, nightlife, peace and tranquility, great standards of life, extreme sports - you name it. A great place for a long holiday, I rate Australia as one of my top holiday destinations and a must visit. Make sure you take out at least a couple of weeks to enjoy Australia fully.
15. Mauritius holidays - They say the beauty of Mauritius is its people. With clear waters, white sandy beaches and year-round holiday making, Mauritius is Asia's Spain. Tourists from India, China, Japan and other far east countries keep Mauritius abuzz the year round with traditional dances, customs and delicious seafood. Being close to mainland Africa, in the summer, Mauritius can be very hot and humid, and therefore the best time to visit is July to September (their winter). With British and French history, you won't face many language problems in this Indian ocean holiday destination. 70,000 searches.
16. Bali - The tiny yet perfect Indonesian island of Bali is the center of all action and one of Indonesia's top holiday destinations. Visit Bali for white sand beaches, awe-aspiring cliffs, nightlife and to submerge into the truly multicultural environment. 35,000 monthly searches for Bali holidays.
17. South Africa holidays - When you mention any part of Africa for holidays, wildlife plays an important role and South Africa is no different. South Africa is UK's top holiday destination in Africa for the British colonial connection. Amongst others, Port Elizabeth, Cape Town and Durban offer the best natural views and beaches. 30,000 monthly searches.
18. Hong Kong holidays - A few years ago, Hong Kong was a British territory. Now a part of China, Hong Kong is the most happening place in the far east. This majorly Buddhist city is a remarkable example of success of Capitalism and offers towering hotels, world's most modern luxuries and one of the most popular holiday destination within Hong Kong is Kowloon. For some peace, you can travel to the Sai Kung peninsula. 27,000 monthly searches.
Still not sure where to go? If you don't mind where you go, and you're more focused on the kind of holiday, you may end up saving substantial sums of money. My best bet while booking a holiday is calling one of my favourite agencies - Best at Travel or Directline Holidays and just chatting to an advisor regarding what's cheap this season. I've always found Best at Travel and Directline saving me money.
Try looking for Cruises, Luxury Holidays, Spa holidays, Safaris or Honeymoons. This will help you check packages and make your decision-making easier.
Still not clear, or have a question, post it as a comment below. Either me of one of te readers will help you out. Happy Holidays.
Thursday, December 24, 2009
Holidays in Magaluf
Magaluf, also called as Magaluff, is a very popular holiday resort in the Spanish Iceland, and it is an ultimate place for stag weekend. Magaluf is the primary attraction of British and Scandinavian tourists. Magaluf is fall under the Calvià municipality and situated within the town of Palma Nova and Torrenova. The nearest airport is Majorca, which is around 25 km away from Magaluf. Once you reach at Majorca airport, you can find any car or taxi to reach on your way to Magaluf. A wide choice of royal hotels and luxury apartments are available here to stay.
The resort is also known for providing budget holidays, that a common man can afford easily. If you are looking for a place, to enjoy the holidays with your family, in an economical price, then Magaluf would be the best option for you. You with your Family can enjoy the holiday in Magaluf and save your pocket. What more? You can find the fantastic last-minute deals by looking at Magaluf online.
Magaluf is the famous and the most popular resort of among Palma Nova, Santa Ponsa, Callo Miller and Alcudia; located in Majorca. Magaluf is an attractive place for the individuals of all age groups, especially if you are around 25 years old, and you should enjoy your stag weekend here. You may surprise to know the fact that every single year around 1,000,000 tourists is visiting Magaluf.
Nightlife:
The nightlife is the key attraction here, which attracts most of the tourists specially youths. You can find many pubs and clubs here to enjoy your stag weekend. Right here, in this resort, you can enjoy music of many popular DJs such as DJ Sammy, James Greg, and Pat Starp. Just by paying €12 you can buy the pass of Magaluf club, the same pass allows you to access the five main important club of Magaluf feuding the Buffalo girls, Tokio Joe's and Bannans.
Main attractions:
Apart from bars and nightclubs is, there are various other interesting places to visit in Magaluf. Two water parks are here, is richly enjoyed many water sports like scuba-diving horseback riding, bungee rocket, go-cart racing, wind surfing and jet skiing.
The Black Lizard Iceland which is situated in the centre of Magaluf bay is the main attraction point for tourists. The name of this Iceland is Black Lizard Iceland because you can find very large number of black lizards here. The distance between this Black Lizard Iceland and the beach front is around 400 m.
The resort is also known for providing budget holidays, that a common man can afford easily. If you are looking for a place, to enjoy the holidays with your family, in an economical price, then Magaluf would be the best option for you. You with your Family can enjoy the holiday in Magaluf and save your pocket. What more? You can find the fantastic last-minute deals by looking at Magaluf online.
Magaluf is the famous and the most popular resort of among Palma Nova, Santa Ponsa, Callo Miller and Alcudia; located in Majorca. Magaluf is an attractive place for the individuals of all age groups, especially if you are around 25 years old, and you should enjoy your stag weekend here. You may surprise to know the fact that every single year around 1,000,000 tourists is visiting Magaluf.
Nightlife:
The nightlife is the key attraction here, which attracts most of the tourists specially youths. You can find many pubs and clubs here to enjoy your stag weekend. Right here, in this resort, you can enjoy music of many popular DJs such as DJ Sammy, James Greg, and Pat Starp. Just by paying €12 you can buy the pass of Magaluf club, the same pass allows you to access the five main important club of Magaluf feuding the Buffalo girls, Tokio Joe's and Bannans.
Main attractions:
Apart from bars and nightclubs is, there are various other interesting places to visit in Magaluf. Two water parks are here, is richly enjoyed many water sports like scuba-diving horseback riding, bungee rocket, go-cart racing, wind surfing and jet skiing.
The Black Lizard Iceland which is situated in the centre of Magaluf bay is the main attraction point for tourists. The name of this Iceland is Black Lizard Iceland because you can find very large number of black lizards here. The distance between this Black Lizard Iceland and the beach front is around 400 m.
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Carnival Cruise - A Perfect Holiday - Rock and Rolling with Carnival Cruise
If you want to have fun for one low price, all you need is a Carnival cruise. A Carnival cruise is a perfect way to pamper yourself. You don’t have to worry about paying extra for meals, entertainment and a range of activities. You just unpack once on the cruise ship. You are in the capable hands of fitness experts having massages, loofah treatments, hairstyles, saunas, pedicures, applying soothing masks and micro-facelifts, there is a complete relaxation schedule for you with nautical spas, and the exercise programs.
Carnival plays every song- from hard rock, musicals, country music or big band. There is a sing-along piano for you to hum along. Compare it to the land vacation where you are constantly involved with the buying theater tickets, reservations, valet parking and looking for other things to do.
Carnival cruise is the most popular cruise in the whole world. With carnival you dine, dream and dance as you sail from one foreign destination to the other. It’s popular with first time cruisers, young singles, couples, old and young loving the party atmosphere. The Carnival cruise highlights include- casual dinner at Sea View Bistro, a convenient 24-hour pizzeria, captain’s cocktail party and gala dinner, complimentary 24-hour room service, camp carnival for kids and teens. In addition to this get to see daily first run movies, dazzling Las Vegas style casino, fine dining with Gala midnight buffets, Nautical spa program, outdoor swimming pools and whirlpools, onboard duty-free shopping and singles cocktail party.
Carnival is an entertainment saga for singles, couples and families and it carries more passengers from all age group on board than any other cruise line. You can enjoy a lavish evening in the two levels Paris Lounge or you can rock and roll in the Rock and Roll dance club, the Café des Artistes and the Monte Carlo Casino. You have stepped into sheer luxury with spacious and comfortable accommodations. All the staterooms are fully carpeted with closet space, private facilities (toilet, basin and shower), and color television screening first-run films. All the staterooms on these super liners are above the ocean level for a better-relaxed cruise. Carnival staterooms are fifty percent larger on average than other cruise lines. You get one hundred percent personal care whether you choose interior or ocean view suite or penthouse suite.
You can give your kids a fun holiday with all kind of games, talent shows parties, movies, crafts, arts, and a world of fun under the supervision of camp carnival counselors. All the counselors are college educated having professional childcare experience and your kids are secure under their competent hands.
If for some reason you are not satisfied with the cruise experience you can notify carnival ahead of coming at the first port of call and you may well get down at first non-US port of call of your ship. Carnival cruise will reimbursement the unutilized part of your cruise charge and compensate for your return flight fare. You can look at carnival cruise vacation protection plans for a worry-free vacation.
Carnival serves buffet on the deck. There is teatime with your favorite beverage and pastries. Moreover, you can place order for complimentary stateroom service 24-hours a day. Your table is always reserved in the dining room. However, you may also eat dinner in the restaurant “Sea View Bistro” on Lido deck. The attire is informal and the meals are buffet style. The restaurant has an open seating and is rather laid back. Of course, if you are calorie conscious carnival has wide Nautical Spa selections with every meal. All the menus have been prepared with the consultation of dietitians. You can have the fresh oven pizzas at the 24-hour pizzeria. There is live music playing at the dazzling spirit lobby. You may like to enjoy your drinks with close friends at the bar.
| Looking for information about cruises? Go to: http://www.whatcruises.com 'What Cruises' is published by Colin Hartness - An excellent resource for Cruises! |
Why a Cruise Vacation is YOUR Dream Holiday
Thinking you could use an escape from the wintertime blahs, maybe even that
dream holiday you've been thinking about for years? A Caribbean cruise
vacation is the answer! What makes a cruise your dream holiday, you ask?
Well, put simply, a cruise combines all the elements of a dream vacation
into one blissful trip. There is ALWAYS something to do, no matter your age
or interests. Whether you're on your honeymoon, vacationing with the
family, or spending quality time reuniting old friends, a cruise is
guaranteed to fulfill your dreams.
Picture yourself riding on a beautiful cruise ship, looking over the railing
to see brilliant blue waters, idyllic sunsets, and dolphins playing in the
white-capped waves. Do you feel dreamy already? This fantasy can be your
reality if you choose a cruise for your next vacation.
With multiple
poolside decks to lay out in the sunshine while enjoying the sights and
sounds of the ocean, along with reggae music and fruity island beverages,
daytime on the cruise ship can be very relaxing. If you prefer to be more
active, most ships are fully equipped with activities. Take a jog around
the boat-top track, or spend the day in aerobics and yoga classes followed
by a massage and facial at the spa. If shopping is your one true love,
you'll be in heaven with all the shops on the ships, ranging from
inexpensive trinkets to fancy wine and fine clothing.
As if there isn't enough to do aboard the boat, don't forget about island
excursions! As the ship makes stops at various tropical paradises, you can
take in the local culture or fulfill your need for adventure. Locals await
you to take you to their favorite coral to swim with the dolphins or on a
waterfall climb. Also, there is unlimited shopping on the islands, so you
can really add to your art collection or your wardrobe. Try the native food
of the islands, and maybe learn a new word or two. By the time you climb
back aboard your ship you'll truly feel like you've visited another world.
Now it's time to hop in the shower to prepare for the evening. Every night
on a cruise ship is magical. Start out with a five-course meal in the fine
dining room (that's already paid for!!). Enjoy drinks, piano music, cover
bands, dancing and more in one of the several bars, or try your luck at
black jack or poker in the casino. There are always cruise-wide games to
play on the decks if you want to meet new people or just be silly with your
friends and family. No matter what you are looking for in a holiday
vacation, a cruise is sure to fulfill your dreams!
| Keith Kingston is a professional web publisher offering Royal Carribean cruises and cheap hotel reservations |
Quick and Easy Holiday Decorating
You're tired. You've worked hard all week. Suddenly, the kids shout gleefully... "let's decorate!" ... in anticipation of the coming holiday. The "let's not" is miraculously not permitted to escape your lips. Instead you take a deep breath while you wonder about how this decorating could become an easier and more fun-filled activity.
Well, it can be!
- First, insist on family members pitching in to help and treat this like a family project. This should not just rest on your shoulders to accomplish and it will be much more fun if you all are making changes and creating memories together.
- Next, pick a day and time you'll all devote no more than one to two hours for a quick holiday makeover at your home (for a major decorating holiday schedule two or three longer blocks of time). It helps if you can set the decorating date about one to two weeks from now, if time still allows for that. This gives you time to gather items together for the project.
- Ask the kids to create one or two new arts and crafts decorations that are suitable to the holiday to have ready for the decorating day. Or, ask them to select ones from among any they may already have on hand, for instance, from school projects.
- Decide on 3 to 4 areas you will focus on decorating this year. Here are some choices: the front door, the front yard, the entry hallway, the kitchen table, the dining room table, the living room, the patio, the bathroom, the bedroom. There are other areas you could consider as well. But if you want quick and dirty, then focus in on only 3 to 4 of the areas for decorating this year. Anyway, you can select other areas next year for a change.
- Keep holiday decorations in separate bags, boxes or baskets in the same closet or in the attic so they'll be easy for everyone to retrieve when they are needed next.
- Buy items you really love when you see them advertised or they may not be available when you later. It's common for seasonal merchandise to change from year to year and also they are not stocked year-round typically. So, your item may no longer be available if you wait too long to decide you want it. Then stash your figurines, statues, wall hangings, and other holiday
decorations in your bags or boxes, sorted by holiday.
- Make or buy some snacks or treats to enjoy together at the completion of your decorating time.
Here are some favorite quick and easy decorating areas and tips:
1. The front door- Have a welcome sign that is theme oriented and you can easily change by season or by holiday. You can either hang up a completely new themed sign, or there are some that come with interchangeable pieces you swap in and out representing different holidays or themes.
2. The dining room table or a table that is centrally located but not used that often- Change the table runner or the tablecloth to a holiday themed one. Then showcase your holiday decorations by arranging a combination of your kid's holiday creations and your own figurines or other holiday decor on the table.
3. The mantel or entertainment center- Add a string of lights and if you wish, you can also vary the string of lights by color best suited for the coming holiday theme. Wall hangings can be changed around this area temporarily as well. Holiday accessories, flags, figurines, etc. are easy to rotate in and to view on or around this area of your home.
4. Special areas by kid's choice- Smaller children can help by adding little decorations to windows and glass doors. They enjoy taping up their creations or they can easily put up static cling decorations. Other areas small children enjoy decorating include outdoors, the dog house and their own rooms. Allow them to handle this aspect of decorating while you take pleasure in their big smiles and hugs!
Finally, make your decorating time even more enjoyable by having holiday background music or other favorite tunes playing in the background. Then, when you're done decorating, finish up with a big family hug and munching on tasty snack treats together!
| Author Resource Box: Liz Hekimian-Williams is founder of Giftsprings.com, a gifts and home decor online shop that features personalized gifts, custom engraved stones, holiday decor and special occasion gifts. Visit the gift shop at http://www.giftsprings.com © 2003, 2004 Elizabeth Hekimian-Williams, Giftsprings This article can be freely reprinted as long as the copyright notice and author resource byline with active link are included with the article. |
The Holiday Shopping Experience - Rewarding or Traumatic?
Picture this scenario! It’s December 24th, the day of Christmas Eve. On this day you should be relaxing, enjoying time with family and thinking of all the precious memories you have created throughout the year.
No, wait! It’s the last day of shopping before Christmas and you haven’t even started to do your gift shopping.
You get into your car and fight traffic all the way to the local mall, only to spend an hour trying to find a parking spot. That is if you find one at all. You enter the mall in search of the perfect gifts and there is a stampede of people. Looks like everyone else is doing last minute shopping too!
You dodge the nudging elbows and stomping feet of the crowds. You’re starting to feel claustrophobic, your stress level is starting to increase and you haven’t even begun shopping yet!
Sound familiar? To top it all off, you browse through the stores only to find that meager offerings remain. The shelves are practically empty. What happens then? You spend too much money on something that your gift recipient neither needs or wants. Their gift wasn’t chosen for them...it was chosen out of desperation.
Once again, you remind yourself that you will prepare far in advance for Christmas next year. The next Holiday Season arrives and you repeat the same traumatic shopping experience.
How many of us have waited until the very last moment to buy a gift for a loved one, friend or business associate? There is only three months left until Christmas and those days will go quickly.
Christmas is one of the most stressful events of the year. The expense of buying gifts and the pressure of last minute shopping can all take the joy out of the most joyful time of year.
Here are some tips to take the stress out of Holiday shopping this year:
1) Make a list of the people you will be buying a gift for before you go shopping. If you have a large family or friends to buy gifts for, it can get expensive. In our family, we have made the decision to buy only for the children. Another way to reduce costs is to have everyone draw a name out of a hat and buy a present only for that person.
2) Think of gift ideas for the people on your list and write them down. What are their hobbies and interests? What are their needs and wants? If you cannot come up with anything, ask the person directly for ideas. This will save you time wandering aimlessly in the mall in search of a gift and you will give a gift that your gift recipient really wants and will appreciate.
3) Buy a few extra gifts, for instance chocolates, so that you will be prepared just in case you forgot somebody or an unexpected guest arrives bearing gifts.
4) If possible, start your Holiday shopping a month or two before Christmas. It is never to early to prepare!
5) Don’t forget about online shopping! Buy your gifts over the internet. You can find most gifts online, shop at your own convenience and you won’t have to step foot in a mall.
If you follow these tips, you are on your way to a rewarding shopping experience and a less stressful Holiday Season.
We all must remember that Christmas is a joyful time of year. It’s not about the gift you give or receive but it is about cherishing the special people in your life and spending time with them. Create new traditions and memories that will be with you for a lifetime.
| Copyright 2004 Written by Lee-Anne Robert, owner of Cuddles ‘n Gifts at http://www.cuddlesngifts.net featuring holiday gift baskets and gifts for any occasion. Check out the new Holiday and Christmas Gift Basket selection. With gifts this beautiful and classy, you will find a gift for anyone on your list! |
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