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April 4, 2013
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Comments Off on Tenerife’s hidden beaches

Tenerife’s hidden beaches

Tenerife’s beaches are famous the world over, and for good reason. As well as being drenched in year-round sunshine, the numerous pristine stretches of sand on the largest of the Canary Islands are lapped by warm, clean and safe waters.

Playa El Puertito

Unsurprisingly, the island has established itself as one of Europe’s top travel destinations, with tourists booking cheap Tenerife holidays throughout the year in order to get their fix of sun, sea, sand and sangria.

But while the island’s main beaches may be overrun with holidaymakers, with a little effort, the savvy traveller can find their own little piece of paradise in one of Tenerife’s many unspoilt and hidden coves.

What’s more, many of the finest secluded beaches are located just a few miles from the island’s main resorts, making it possible to enjoy an afternoon of tranquil sunbathing before heading back to the hotel for the all-you-can-eat evening buffet or the night’s entertainment.

Top of the list for holidaymakers keen to enjoy some peace and quiet should be Playa El Puertito. Though it’s just a short distance from the lively and hugely popular resorts of Costa Adeje and Playa de Las Americas, this historic fishing community feels a million miles away.

Here, while the local fisherman go about a way of life that has largely remained the same for centuries, tourists can relax on the fine black sand. Thanks to the secluded nature of the cove, wind is rarely an issue, making this oft-overlooked beach ideal for sunbathers.

This lack of wind also makes the warm waters ideal for swimming, and bathers can enjoy fine views of the fishing cottages as they take a dip.

A little more developed, yet still offering more than enough space to lay down a towel without having to worry about intruding on someone else’s space, is Playa de Las Gavitos. Located just past Las Teresitas – which is very much on the tourist map – the small cove boasts one of the most picturesque and beaches on the island, minus the crowds.

Unlike Playa El Puertito, the waters here can get choppy when the wind picks up, making this a popular spot for water sports enthusiasts, while the rugged cliffs encircling the cove offer some welcome shade from the summer sun. Playa de Las Gavitos also has a selection of kiosks and cafes to service the needs of holidaymakers.

Although these beaches appear tranquil compared to Tenerife’s most popular spots, they are still relatively accessible, particularly to tourists following the lead of the locals and hiring scooters to zip around the island.

In order to experience true seclusion you’ll need to leave your scooter or car behind and trek through the island’s dramatic volcanic landscape.

Play Bullullo, for example, can only be accessed along a single-track road, with the going tough even for experienced walkers. Unsurprisingly, this makes it more or less out of bounds for families enjoying cheap Tenerife holidays, but determined sun seekers, as well as surfers keen to enjoy some of the island’s best breaks, do make the walk – with many recounting their find in the bars and taverns of nearby Puerto de la Cruz once the sun has gone down.

So while Tenerife’s main resorts and beaches can feel unbearably overcrowded at times, with a little imagination and a bit of effort, it’s easy to leave the masses behind and enjoy some sun-soaked serenity. And remember, if in doubt, politely call upon the knowledge of the locals, who can point you in the direction of the island’s top secret spots.

Click here for more information on booking Tenerife beach holidays.

April 4, 2013
by admin
Comments Off on Travelling for beginners: Saying goodbye

Travelling for beginners: Saying goodbye

While you might be excited about the new trip you’re undertaking, there will always be a little uncertainty there – after all, in order to have your own adventure, you’ll probably have to say goodbye to everybody and everything that’s familiar to you, including your parents, your partner and even your pets. So how do you cope with the separation?

Family and friends

First, it’s only fair that we’re honest with you: saying goodbye to your loved ones is never pleasant, and it’s not something you’ll ever really get used to. Your family are the most likely to worry – they’ve seen you grow up and lived through every high and low with you, so the thought of you flying thousands of miles away is understandably hard for them. You might find their worrying silly, but be kind; they’re conflicted, but they’re happy for you. Unfortunately, you might not be able to say the same for your friends – while most of them will be excited for you, make sure not to gloat too much. There’s nothing worse than carrying on with your normal routine while your Facebook feed is filled with friends climbing mountains and drinking Sangria in the sunshine. Don’t be that person!

Partners

If you are in a relationship, unfortunately long-term travel plans can be a bit of a deal-breaker. Should you stick with it, or go your separate ways? It’s a hugely personal choice and one that you’ll both need to speak about frankly and openly. If you feel you’ll still want to be together when you get back, then work for it, or agree on a “break” while you’re away. Otherwise, it simply may not be worth it – the world is full of new people, and if your heart’s not in the relationship then there’s no point denying yourself opportunities for an ailing relationship. Just make sure you’re honest with your partner, before you leave.

Pets

For some people it’s actually pets that cause the most heartache; often they become our best friends and confidantes, and the idea of leaving them for months at a time is heartbreaking. Like any friendship though, we have to work to make them last. If you’re lucky, you’ll be able to leave your pets in the care of a friend or family member – although we don’t recommend leaving them with a partner, as long distances can put enough strain on a relationship without the added obligation.

Whoever ends up taking care of your pet when you leave will need specific instructions and you should make sure you’ve done as much as you can to minimise the impact they will have on your friend’s routine – and pocket! Make sure you have a comprehensive pet insurance policy in place, bulk-buy dog food, write down any and all requirements, and make sure your pet’s foster parent has a webcam, so you can still say hello once in a while!

April 3, 2013
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Comments Off on I Love Paris

I Love Paris

As you all know, I adore Paris. The food, the history, the culture, the people… It’s the greatest destination for a truly European experience. Paris can be done on a budget or for a little more for a more luxurious experience.

Whatever way you choose to travel, there are some parts of this city which you simply cannot miss.

Landmarks:

Eiffel Tower

The Eiffel Tower epitomises Paris and is the city’s most prominent cultural landmark. The tower was originally erected in 1889 as an entrance to the 1889 World’s Fair, and still stands as one of the most beautiful and recognisable landmarks in the world.

The tower is the most visited paid monument in the world, and as such you have to expect queues all year round if you wish to climb it – the wait will be worth it though! No other location in the city grants you such uninterrupted and stunning views – even on a cloudy day you’ll be able to see for miles.

Whether you choose to walk up the tower or take the lift, it really is a must visit spot when you’re in the city of love, so make sure that you plan for your visit in your budget.

Arc de Triomphe

Standing originally as a monument honouring those who fought and died in the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars, it is now a landmark which also remembers those who died in the First and Second World Wars and went unidentified.

The Arc was commissioned in 1806 and took many years to complete; it was clearly worth the effort as the monument serves as reason enough for many people to visit the city. Any trip to Paris will feature regular sightings of the Arc for free, but you can also visit the top of the Arc to see panoramic views of the surrounding city.

Cathedrals:

Notre Dame

Yet another one of the most famous landmarks in the world, this time of French Gothic style, Notre Dame de Paris is a fantastic location to visit in the city whether you are religious or not.

The cathedral houses several significant relics, including a fragment of the True Cross, one of the Holy Nails and one of the third-class crown of thorns. These significant Christian relics are usually set upon display at Easter, so that would be the best time to visit should you wish to witness these items.

For those who are less religiously inclined, the architecture alone should be enough to draw you to visit the stunning building. Each face of the cathedral contains such a great level of detail that it would take a full trip to appreciate it all. The interior is equally as impressive, and it is easy to understand the reverence many people hold for the place.

Sainte-Chapelle

If you enjoyed visiting Notre Dame, Sainte-Chapelle is another great option for those looking to visit Paris on a budget. Building of the chapel began in 1239 after being commissioned by King Louis IX of France, and is considered by many to be one of the highest achievements of the Gothic architecture period.

Any artist will wish to visit this chapel as it is one of the most extensive collections of 13^th century stained glass to be found globally, and from within are truly inspiring. The colours are incredible and the images displayed are astounding as you realise how aged these windows actually are.

Sacre-Coeur Basilica

This Roman Catholic Church is popular amongst tourists not only for the architectural achievement of the building itself but for the views the surrounding area provides. Based upon the summit of the butte Montmarte, it is the highest natural point in the city and provides astounding views which cannot be missed when the sky is clear.

Construction began in 1875 and continued until 1914, meaning the construction of the building itself is soaked in the religious and political history of Paris, including World War I. You can enjoy a picnic on the surrounding sloped grass on a sunny day, or take refuge within the church and appreciate the stunning art work for a cheap activity.

Other Activities

Champs-Elysees

A fantastic location for those looking for a little class to add to the holiday, you can either visit the street and check out the big name brands on offer, or if you’re lucky enough to be travelling with some cash, this will be your shopping mecca.

Much like most of the city’s attractions, the street has a rich history to add to the cosmopolitan centre which it is known for today. Originally fields and gardens, the area began development in 1616 with the avenue of trees. Slowly over the years it resembled what its current state more and more, until the 18^th Century when it became one of the most fashionable locations in the city.

You can expect to find the very richest Parisians as residents in this huge area, as well as up-to-the-minute offices. The shops on offer range from H&N and the Disney Store, to Louis Vuitton and Lacoste. It is renowned for the range of shopping opportunities, and even houses the world’s (now second) largest Adidas store.

Accommodation

For many visiting Paris, the accommodation becomes one of the best parts of the holiday. If you’re looking for something on a budget, there are a variety of different hostels available. However, if you have a little more cash, Paris is ideal for those looking to experience the height in modern luxury.

Vhip Hotels showcase Paris’s best hotels, and looking through the options is enough to make anyone book a flight. Hotel Sezz Paris is so chic it’s almost painful, as the cool interior starts from the en suite bathrooms to the chilled out bar. The views are also unparalleled – who doesn’t want to see the Eiffel Tower outside their window?

There is so much to see and do, that you should seriously consider a trip to Paris for your next vacation. What are you waiting for?

March 28, 2013
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Comments Off on Traveling With My Boyfriend

Traveling With My Boyfriend

After graduating university and working for what seemed like decades (though in reality just a few years), my boyfriend and I decided we just had to see a bit of the world. We planned a holiday for springtime, our first time out of the U.S., and we couldn’t have been more excited to see Europe for the first time. The first stop on our grand Euro-adventure was London, a city I’d dreamed of visiting ever since I was a child. We landed in Heathrow to a misty grey drizzle, but I had heard much about the London weather so wasn’t fazed by the melancholy skies- we had a city to explore!

My boyfriend and I had booked a room at a cute little bed and breakfast I found online, and as our taxi wove its way through the crowded streets to drop us off, the rain pelted down harder and harder. Gazing out of the cab window, I could barely make out the figures, buildings and cars just feet away through the sheets of water coming down from the sky. At last, we reached our accommodations and gratefully dashed from cab to the warm, welcoming lobby.

Our room was small and cozy, furnished nicely with old-fashioned antique décor. After changing into dry clothes, we meandered downstairs, hoping to go out and find a coffee before deciding where to venture next. Suddenly, the lights flickered and an enormous rumble of thunder shuddered through the old building. Other travelers were gathered in the living room, relaxing in armchairs, reading at coffee tables and sipping tea while the storm brewed outside. My boyfriend and I exchanged a look; this situation looked far more comforting than venturing outside at the moment!

After taking some tea from the kitchen, we found a space on the large plushy sofa and began chatting with the very diverse group of travelers. We swapped interesting travel stories with an older man from Sweden, a young couple from France and a few solo travelers from Australia and Prague. While my boyfriend and I were on our first trip out of the States, these travelers were quite worldly and had seen some fascinating sights. Eventually, the friendly chat turned into a lively game of charades, the eclectic international group livening up the stormy day by acting out hilarious renditions of celebrities and movie titles.

Soon though, the hours of travel began to catch up with me and I craved a bit of quiet. Not wanting to leave the group completely, I sidled to a comfortable armchair to the side of the room for a bit of alone time, and pulled out my smart phone. One of my favorite applications popped up, an addictive bingo game that I just loved. I smiled to my boyfriend as I listened to the warm laughter surrounding me, then curled up in my chair with the bingo game. If want to play bingo on your mobile, I can think of few better places than a cozy B&B on a stormy day, surrounded by love and laughter!

March 27, 2013
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Comments Off on Paphos – Why it’s Time Has Come

Paphos – Why it’s Time Has Come

Whether you’re looking for sun or for culture, Paphos certainly has plenty to offer. Located in southern Cyprus it has an elegant yet relaxed atmosphere. The area is also steeped in ancient Greek culture and is said to have been the birthplace of the goddess Aphrodite. The selection of Paphos as the European City of Culture for 2017 looks set to expand its attraction still further.

Places to Stay
There’s a great choice of accommodation in Paphos, whatever your tastes and budget may be. The Asimina Suites Hotel, for example offers 5-star luxury with its own beach and two outdoor freshwater pools. Some suites even have a private deck and their own pool. It’s only a short distance from the airport and the town centre and its great nightlife atmosphere, yet the Asimina is in a quiet location with its own spa and a full range of features which will suit even the most discerning guest. There is a selection of restaurants which offer everything from fine dining to a light snack. The hotel is an ideal venue for weddings too with a wide range of packages on offer and a full-time coordinator to ensure your day runs smoothly.
Alternatively take a look at the stylishAthena Royal Beach Hotel. This 4-star hotel has air-conditioned rooms, satellite TV and all the facilities you’d expect. Sporty types will love the three pools, floodlit tennis court, bowling green and mini golf. There are also two quality golf courses just a short drive away. If you want a more relaxing holiday there is easy access to historical sites, restaurants, bars and shops then at the end of a long day you could simply relax in the Jacuzzi. It is possible to take advantage of an all-inclusive package where all of your meals, snacks and drinks enjoyed throughout your stay at the hotel are included at no extra charge.
While both the above are very much aimed at adult guests, families will love the Paphos Gardens Holiday Resort. Just 300 meters from a sandy beach, it is also only a short distance from shops and entertainment venues. It offers conventional hotel rooms as well as self-catering apartment options and all the services that guests will need. There’s a selection of restaurants and bars on site to offer you the choice of a full meal or a light snack. You’ll also find a spa, pool, tennis court and a full range of entertainment and activities on offer. With operators like Jet2holidays making Cyprus easier than ever to get to, the time to consider a holiday in Paphos really is now.
Whether you’re after the luxury of the Asimina Suites Hotel or a family-friendly activity holiday, Paphos has plenty to offer the discerning traveller.

March 25, 2013
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Comments Off on Pearl Diving in Bahrain

Pearl Diving in Bahrain

Bahrain has been famous for its radiant pearls over the centuries. Before Japan came up with cheaper cultured pearls, Bahrain was the most eminent location for pearls. It alone supplied over 80% to the world’s pearl market. Tourists can explore the region for pearls with a diving program, which is authorized by Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI). It is one of the main tourist attractions there. Over 400 square miles of oyster beds flourish in the warm, shallow waters of Bahrain, offering a very unusual diving experience. Eventually, media started calling it the ‘Bahrain pearling trail’.

Historically, the first ever mention of pearl diving occurs in Assyrian texts. It dates back to around 2000 BC. At first, divers did not have any technical gear. They used weighted rope to stay near sea beds in the shallow seas. The divers would stay submerged for a minute and collect about 8-12 promising- looking oysters.

The golden age of pearling was between the period of 1850s-1930s. At that time pearls were more precious than diamonds. Pearl diving served as a good employment and contributed most to the national GDP till 1930s. There was a downfall to the pearling trade due to the discovery of oil in Bahrain during 1932 and introduction of cultured pearls by Japan, which were selling at low prices.

The Bahrain pearling trail is a 3.5 km long path, located at the island of Muharraq. Robin Bugeja is the owner of the pearl diving tour company, which gives an amazing tour. Before the tourists head out for actual diving, they are given a small orientation in which they are briefed about the techniques used to finding promising-looking oysters. The orientation session also includes a brief history of the whole activity and how it evolved over the years.

The climate of Bahrain is hot and dry, while summers are mostly humid. The natural hazards are that of periodic droughts and sand storms. The water temperatures are 34 degree Celsius in summers and 20 degree Celsius during winters. Most importantly, the diving season is open all year around. Moreover, Bahrain also offers a variety of wreck dives, including ships, planes, tugs and barges.

Things you need to know:

If anyone finds a pearl whilst diving, its theirs to keep
Bahrain is regarded as a very secure place with a very low crime rate
Visas are required by all except passport holders of AGCC (Arabian Gulf Cooperation Council) States, (i.e. nationals of Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates) and citizens of the UK for a maximum of 4 weeks (providing they hold a passport with at least 6 months validity).

There are numerous money exchangers operational in Bahrain. All you need is the proper identification and once provided, you will be able to exchange currency from any one of the 25 locations of Travelex Exchange stores in Bahrain in cities like Riffa, Manama, Muharraq and even Bahrain International Airport where you will land. It is helpful to note that in exchange for one US dollar, you will receive about 0.95 Bahraini Dinars in return.

March 21, 2013
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Comments Off on Smart Girls Shop Around to Save on their Travel

Smart Girls Shop Around to Save on their Travel

When it comes to travelling, there seems to be an occasional double standard about how people shop. When people go shopping in town, getting the best deal and finding the right bargains is something that comes naturally and isn’t questioned. Yet, this isn’t always the case when it comes to travelling.

Fortunately, if you make the most of what is available online, this isn’t a problem. From accommodation and spending to car hire excess insurance, virtually everything can be cut down if you just take a few moments to shop around.

Cutting on Accommodation

Accommodation is a prime example of something you don’t always need. If you’re taking a city break, do you need to pay for on-site bars and facilities you can find elsewhere (maybe cheaper) close by? Likewise, paying for an outdoor pool might not be much use in winter. Look online and shop around, there may always be cheaper alternatives.

Car Hire and Travel

Next to accommodation, the other biggest cost for any travel is the actual travelling costs involved. You have to get somewhere. Car hire is a cheap and practical method, especially for individuals or small groups, but many are put off by insurance.

Again, shopping around has its benefits. Insurance is a competitive market, and you’re interest as a customer is in demand. Comparing the market online will find the right deal; whether it’s cutting the bottom line, investing in better excess or getting the right costs for the duration of your trip.

Spending Money

Of course, all these costs save you money, and spending money is the one area where it’s very easy to counter argue this. If you’re looking to cut costs down, don’t get into the frame of mind when it comes to thinking of this cash as excess.

Money saved isn’t actually saved if you spend it on your travels. If this is what you wanted to cut costs down for, this is great, but if it’s not, self-restraint and some simple budgeting can keep costs down when you’re out travelling.

Again, shopping around is key. When eating out or doing anything, it’s a matter of not going to the first place you see. Look around; ask locals for advice on the cheapest or more money-efficient places to go. If you’re eating out on a daily basis, for instance, this is something that can save some serious money. After all, smart girls know the benefits of finding the right offers and costs when travelling.

March 20, 2013
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Comments Off on The best hotels for a holiday in İçmeler

The best hotels for a holiday in İçmeler

İçmeler is a popular Turkish holiday resort. A quieter alternative to Marmaris, many people appreciate the serene beauty and less crowded environment. When guests can be torn away from the amazing facilities of the hotels below, hiking through the dense pine forests that surround İçmeler on three sides is a popular option.

Moonlight Apartments
Moonlight Apartments provide Spanish style accommodations nestled within the lush green mountains, offering authentic Turkish luxury and spectacular views. This resort has a wide variety of amenities catering especially to family-goers, but also couples including a serene sun terrace with sunloungers and parasols, children’s pool and playground, waterslide, bicycle rentals and more. Room styles are focused on full service apartment accommodation, allowing you all the comforts of home, with clean and minimal styles throughout.

L’Etoile Beach Hotel
L’Etoile Beach Hotel offers quality facilities within modern accommodations. The rooms are sizable and comfortable, with bright walls and soothing accents. After spending an afternoon tanning in the sun, party until dawn at the multiple bars set in the resort center. With its beachfront location strategically located 200m from the happening resort center, you get the best of both worlds.

Grand Aquarium Apartments
The Grand Aquarium Apartments is spoilt for choice in facilities; everyone in the family will be kept thoroughly engaged. Kids will love whizzing down the waterslide at the pool while the adults can read a book while lounging at the sun terrace. After the children are done frolicking, the daily activities and nightly entertainment programs sure to please. With all of this set in the amazing resort of Içmeler, what more could you want?

Hotel Marmaris Palace
Hotel Marmaris Palace is wonderfully situated on the deep blue waters of Marmaris bay. Surrounded by a towering pine forest, it offers a unique opportunity for guests as they can participate in a tree top climbing adventure. Not only that, but other excellent activities are available such as scuba diving and boccia. Instead of taking a dolmus to the Içmeler centre, rent a bicycle and ride along the beachfront promenade adjoining the two.

Hotel Golmar Beach
Hotel Golmar Beach has an ideal spot perched directly on the beachfront on a less-crowded bay. Grab a drink and admire the views of the sea from your room balcony. The atmosphere here is decidedly quiet, perfect for those looking for a soothing place to relax. To explore the shops and eateries in the main area, simply take the pedestrian promenade to Içmeler, seven minutes away.

Marmaris Park
Marmaris Park provides a true taste of Turkey with its traditional-style accommodation, which was recently refurbished in 2012. Kids will go wild for the epic waterslide that weaves through the trees and dispels into the sea. Grownups can get pampered with beauty treatments and massages. With its own beachfront promenade, complete with platforms and jetties, there are many spots to soak up the Turkish sun.

Mirage World
Mirage World hotel provides everything you need for a relaxing stay amongst the majestic mountains with a close proximity to markets, bars, and restaurants. Have children? No worries, you can drop them off at the hotel-run kids’ club while you lounge on the sun terraces or enjoy the expansive pool facilities and bar. Explore a variety of on-site entertainment options including performances in the amphitheater.

Julian Forest Suites
It’s no surprise that Julian Forest Suites is considered one of TripAdvisor’s “Best Hotels 2012.” It’s all about the atmosphere as panoramic vistas of the mountains and the lush pine forest set the scene. The staff are amicable and the accommodations are spotless and cheery. Situated at the edge of the resort, the regular dolmus service ensures that you can traverse the area easily.

Alvaro Apartments
The Alvaro Apartments is just the place for families. Kids can splash around in the two warm, clean pools while adults chat away at the poolside restaurant. The accommodations are simple, but cozy. Conveniently located a few steps away from beautiful Içmeler centre, you have an incredible array of entertainment options.

Hotel Chateau de Ville
Hotel Chateau de Ville, set only 10m away from the sand and shingle beach, rewards guests with gorgeous views of the coastline and mountains. This hotel caters to those looking for a laid-back environment, as this is an ideal base for those wanting to explore the resort centre. Check out the free-form pool, complete with waterfall, while being serenaded by live music on the outside terrace.

March 17, 2013
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Comments Off on Mexico’s unmissable historical sites

Mexico’s unmissable historical sites

Mexico’s a holiday destination that’s certainly got a lot going for it – think gorgeous sunshine, stunning beaches and a wonderfully rich history. Personally, it’s the country’s historical attractions that really piqued my interest, and you can read about some of my favourite places below.

Chicen Itza

Hopefully, these will give you a little inspiration for your own trip. And, if you’re still in the process of working out flights, accommodation and such, it’s worth checking out the various hotels at http://www.hayesandjarvis.co.uk/destinations/Mexico, since they offer a good balance between luxury and affordability.

Right, let’s get on with talking about the historical attractions, shall we?

Chichen Itza

One of the richest areas of Mexico’s past is its history surrounding the ancient Maya. And, of all the Yucatan Maya sites, Chichen Itza is arguably not only the most famous, but also the best preserved.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Chichen Itza should definitely be high on your itinerary if you’re keen to discover more about Mexico’s past. You’ll find it in Merida, with the site spanning an impressive 6.5 sq km.

The most famous site here is, without doubt, El Castillo. Also known as the Pyramid of Kukulan, this vast structure is 25 m high and acts as a physical representation of the Mayan calendar.

A particularly interesting thing about Chichen Itza is that is has two discernible architectural zones. So, if you explore the southern section, for example, you’ll see structures built in the traditional Puuc Maya style of this region. The central zone, meanwhile, combines central Mexican and Puuc architectural styles, having been built around the 10th century after the arrival of the Toltecs.

Tulum

Another of Mexico’s most important architectural sites is Tulum. This is situated on the Riviera Maya and, in fact, its location is part of what makes this place so special. You see, this is the only Maya site to have been built overlooking the ocean – and you can get some really fantastic views across the local beaches and out over the Caribbean Sea from here.

This ancient fortress city is really well preserved, and today there is a long walkway that leads you around the all the ruins. The best-known of these is the Castillo, which is perched on a cliff top offering all those amazing views I was telling you about a moment ago.

As a quick tip, it’s also worth bringing your swimming gear to Tulum. That may sound odd at first, but the beaches of the Riviera Maya are utterly gorgeous, and there’s a convenient stairway down to the beach just to the side of the ruins. So, there’s no excuse not to combine sightseeing and a little sun!

Mexico City

There are also some brilliant historical attractions to discover in Mexico City – you just need to know where to look. Personally, I think Zocalo is one of the best places to go. Among the largest city squares in the world, it measures a huge 240 m from east to west and 220 m from north to south. So, expect to be impressed!

Interestingly, its name means ‘base’ – a nickname given to the square, whose official name is the Plaza de la Constitucion, in the 19th century. Residents started calling it Zocalo in reference to failed plans to build a monument to independence here, which left the square with an empty statue base.

It’s got a rich history, but today it is home to some of the city’s most powerful organisations. In fact, on the square’s sides, you’ll be able to spot the Catedral Metropolitana, offices of the distrito federation government and the Palacio Nacional.

March 15, 2013
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Comments Off on Time-sharing: What and where?

Time-sharing: What and where?

If you like to spend lavishly and holiday in style, without the added stress of finding the perfect hotel or rented condo, then time sharing is certainly an option worth considering. There are well over 8,000 time-share resorts the world over, the vast majority of which can be found in the U.S. In fact, U.S. based time-share properties account for nearly 50% of the world’s total.

The idea is genius, and extremely rewarding if handled astutely. It is essentially your own holiday home that can be resold, rented out, exchanged or bequeathed, usually at a given time of year. Those who do their research properly can potentially earn up to treble, or sometimes stacks more than what they originally paid for the property. Others, after the initial investment, end up finding themselves in a bit of a financial pickle. The secret is knowing what to look for and when and where to invest, via means of shrewd, cautious and intelligent research – not a skimpily delivered 90-minute sales pitch in the middle of a hotel lobby.

If you are one of the unfortunate souls to have found your way into the aforementioned financial pickle then a lesson on Resort Management Association may be just what you’re looking for. For anyone looking to enter the market, here are a few suggestions on where to look:

Hawaii, U.S

The far-flung U.S. state is awash with spectacular time-share properties, many of which are among some of the top-rated in the world. Lahaina, Maui offers a range of luxury, oceanfront properties, that can be rented for anything between $150 and $1000 per night, while the Hilton Hawaiian Village in Honolulu is a destination unto itself, providing guests with spacious, cozy studio apartments with all the trimmings. Properties can be rented at around $139 to $685 per night, and bought for anywhere between $2,000 – $250,000.

Florida, U.S.

If you want something for the whole family, look no further than The Orange County. Florida, needless to say, is home to Disneyworld, and the list of time-share properties available to buyers appears endless. Disney’s Beach Club Villas are within walking distance of Epcot and a mere boat ride from the other resorts, whereas Disney’s Boardwalk Villas focus more on the charm of old Americana. Further down the coast at Palm Beach Shores, Marriot’s Ocean Pointe offers respite from the crowds but still affords a vast scope of family oriented activities. The cost of renting one of these properties typically varies from $130 – $800, and resale prices currently vary between $75 and $30,000.

Cancun, Mexico

In contrast to Florida, Cancun is home to time-share resorts that can suit just about anyone’s tastes. Whether it’s a family vacation, a romantic getaway or party-fuelled jaunt with friends, Cancun has it all. A week at The Royal Sands is likened to a week in Paradise with its capacious and deluxe living areas and all-encompassing list of on-site facilities. Price per night: $60-$700. Current resale bracket: $4,000 – $75,000.

Aruba, The Caribbean

The Dutch island of Aruba is a utopia for any holidaymaker. Its pearly white beaches, glassy turquoise waters, and range of available activities, such as surfing, sailing, and fishing all but guarantee a perfect holiday, each time you go. Popular resorts, which are all in league with each other in terms of the luxury and high-quality amenities on offer, include Marriot’s Aruba Ocean Club and Playa Linda Beach Resort, both in Palm Beach, and Costa Linda Beach Resort further south in the island’s capital, Oranjestad. Guests can typically expect to pay $120 – $1,200 per night, or buy at $1,300 – $35,000.

Colorado, U.S.

If you’re more of an thrill-seeker then investing in a Colorado based will surely be money well spent. Unsurpassable skiing and snowboarding conditions spoil the state each winter while during the rest of the year the absence of snow only serves to reveal the extensive wilderness. Aspen, Avon, Breckenridge and Winter Park are home to some stunningly beautiful properties that can be rented for anywhere between $150 – $1,500 per night, or procured at a resale price of $2,500. The most expensive typically fetch around $500,000.

Time-sharing isn’t for everyone, but for those who enjoy a good splurge, it’s a surefire way to ensure an unforgettable vacation in the most sumptuous of styles. Just remember to do your homework before parting with your cash!