‘Vacation’ Category

Golfing holidays in Portugal

August 30th, 2011 Tushar Mathur

If you are looking to combine a golfing holiday with some sun, sea and sand, then Portugal is simply ideal. Though not a large country, Portugal is brimming with personality and variety, from peaceful countryside to bustling city. Tourists come from all over the world to sip fine Portuguese wines, sample the delicious cuisine, swim in the pristine sea, and of course play a few rounds of golf!

The most popular Portuguese region for golf is the southernmost province of Algarve, in which golf courses flourished in the 70’s and 80’s and are now a well established fixture. All of these are no more than 15km from the beach, so when you want a break from the green it couldn’t be easier to go for a swim, or relax in the sun. The area is also well developed with a range of hotels and resorts, providing for all your needs and wishes to make sure that you can really relax, and worry about nothing beyond perfecting your swing. The Algarve may not, at first sight, appear to be the obvious place for golfers. Most of the countryside is a dry an uninviting landscape with sparse greenery, although for some travellers, the rural aspect is the attraction. However, boreholes to underwater springs provide ample irrigation to keep the greens lush and fresh, and often voted among the world’s best.

However, if you want to combine Portugal’s top class golf courses with some swish city life, then head to Lisbon. Hotels in Lisbon are full of character and charm, and range from the most luxurious to some of the best value rooms in Europe. Some offer golfing deals, with transfers from your hotel to the course and back home, and of course the nearby courses often have their own accommodation options. Whether you are a beginner or a pro the many courses, including championship grade greens, will have options to suit you.  At the very heart of the city is Belavista Golf, considered to be the hardest course in the country, so if you are in the mood for a challenge give it a go!

And then there’s the wine. According to wine website RegularWino.com “Portual is regaining its street-cred especially within the UK, but the best wines are still to be found (at a fraction of the price) in Portugal. Take the time to explore the vineyards within the Duoro and Alentejo region and if you want to do a little celebrity watching, you can see Cliff Richard’s own vineyard in the Algarve.

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Planning the Perfect RV Vacation

July 13th, 2011 Tushar Mathur

RVing is an exciting and intimate way to see natural landscapes, new cities, and new people. It allows avid travelers and adventurers to explore scenic terrain and recreational areas. That said, RV travel does take detailed planning if you want to keep your travel expenses under control, and even with plenty of money to splurge, the best way to travel by RV is to maintain a budget. Budgeting means much more than creating a written plan to divide travel expenses—it also means taking a closer look at route details, recreational options, and renting options.

Savings are in the Route Details
Travelers on a tight or loose budget need to look at all of their travel options before the day of the trip. This means taking a close look at route details. Many travelers rely on online maps such as Google Maps or Yahoo Maps to plan their trips. These maps are often used because it gives trip planners more details than printed maps, including approximate mileage and photos and places of interest along the route. But when selecting a route through online map services it’s best to compare these maps to analyze several routes for their advantages and disadvantages. Although this method is time consuming, it takes less time than getting lost on the road, or encountering unnecessary traffic. Furthermore, viewing these maps can also help travelers save money by finding routes that will save time. Travelers will need to find out how fast their RV is allowed to go on each particular highway for both day and night travel. While doing research, RV travelers may find that they need to choose an alternative route due to road construction or highway speed.

Recreational Options
Depending on the area of travel, RV adventurers may have plenty of free and low cost recreational choices that can boost their fun but help them avoid any budget busting. Of course, finding the best recreational options will also require research. One of the best ways to find free events is to search the local city and town websites, which will usually host information for a number of famous and historical activities. These sites may also point new visitors to money-saving coupons for local activities.

Renting Options
Although many travelers desire to get the most space for their money, it’s smarter to rent an RV with only the most basic needs in mind. Does the traveler really need a luxury RV rental? How large of a sleeping area is really needed? Is a smaller RV better for the traveler’s budget due to gas costs?

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For Love of the Game: Where Should You Go?

May 27th, 2011 Tushar Mathur

So you other golf enthusiasts in the family have decided to swing away a week at a golf resort. If the game means enough to you, then maybe you’ve considered venturing out of state to a tropical destination where the turf is spectacular and the wide range of professionally designed courses can test your skill and improve it too. Depending on where you are in the country, the flight out to California, Arizona, and other western hotspots for a good golf game might be hard to add to the already not-so-cheap room reservation, tee times, and the added cost of bring clubs with you on board. If you’re closer to the eastern seaboard, then destinations in the American south are probably your best bet.

The golf courses of Virginia, Georgia, and the Carolinas all have a fine array of resorts that are guaranteed to challenge you and your loved ones but not challenge your wallet. But don’t think the luxury of Florida golf resorts is outside your realm of possibility. Many not only offer packages that suit families, they offer instructional experiences for those who want to better their swing and especially for youngsters with potential to go far on the fairway. Chances are you’ll have a hard time finding the combination of quality, variety, and affordability anywhere other than in Florida, where the golf game is taken seriously not just as a pastime but as a pursuit.

That’s not to say you can’t simply have a good time and relax. Family members brought along to a Florida golf resort that arrive to discover they simply have no interest in teeing off for five days straight typically have a wide variety of ulterior options not available in many other resorts around the country. Whether it’s a spa on site or the multitude of tourist attractions and adventures that litter the Florida landscape, your whole family is sure to have a good time if you choose a resort in the sunshine state.

But don’t take my word for it. Peruse online and see for yourself why Florida golf is going to be the best game you ever played. You can certainly swing it, so start practicing now.

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Top Five Most Popular African Safari Destinations

April 15th, 2011 Tushar Mathur

With a continent as vast and diverse as Africa, it can be difficult to know to choose where to go on safari. The following five African safari destinations have long been some of the most popular options, particularly because of the incredibly opportunities to observe wildlife and due to their ecological importance and unique landscapes.

Masai Mara National Reserve – Kenya: The Masai Mara covers an area of 1510 squared kilometres and is situated in South West Kenya. It is an excellent place to observe the Big 5 and all the Big Cats. It is also a popular place to view the annual great migration of over 2 millions wildebeest, zebra and gazelle. The Maasai people are the traditional inhabitants of the area and in May 2001 Mara Conservancy took over management and now controls over one third of the Masai Mara. This area provides a more authentic holiday experience as is less populated with tourists with only one lodge within the boundaries. Wildlife is plentiful as the area is closely protected by guards.

Kruger National Park – South Africa: At 18,989 square kilometres Krugar is one of the largest national parks in Africa and also the largest in terms of the facilities, range of accommodation offered and tourist infrastructure. Over 147 species of mammal can be viewed, more than any other game reserve in Africa. It’s popular as a self drive safari destination and also one of the best places to view elephant due to high numbers prevalent within the park. The number of facilities and high chances of seeing the most popular animals also makes it a firm favourite for families.

South Luangwa National Park – Zambia: One of the most popular national parks for walking safaris, Zambia has very rich flora and fauna and a particularly high number of species of bird. Giraffe’s, elephant and buffalo are popular as well as large numbers of crocodiles and hippo due to the Luangwa River. Poaching continues to be an issue in the parks 9,050 squared kilometres, wiping out the black rhino in 1987 and putting pressure on the elephant population.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park – Uganda: Situated in the Kigezi Highlands of South-Western Uganda, the area consists of 331 square kilometres of jungle forest that is only accessible by foot. The area is designated a UNESCO world heritage site because of its ecological importance with an exceptional biodiversity that’s stemmed from the variations of altitude and habitats in the park. With over 160 species of trees and 100 species of ferns it remains one of the richest ecosystems in the world and experience a huge diversity of species.

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Stag and Hen Parties: Wild Weekends Away

December 13th, 2010 Tushar Mathur

Some choose to go abroad for their stag nights or hen dos, but closer to home, you will find a wealth of destinations suitable for this epic night of partying, which will make it a memorable evening at a fraction of the cost. Also, you will save time travelling overseas and therefore have more to spend celebrating!

City Charms

The following cities have the winning combination of facilities, historical sites, cultural-interest shops, pubs, clubs and a dense population that will help quench your stag or hen’s thirst for one last taste of freedom:

  • London
  • Brighton
  • Blackpool
  • Dublin
  • Bournemouth
  • Newcastle
  • Edinburgh
  • Cardiff

Countryside Chill-out Spots

The bright lights and hectic hustle and bustle of cities is not for everyone; some would prefer to quietly relax with friends and be pampered. Companies such as Redseven Leisure take this on board, which is why they offer you a helping hand if you’re put in charge of organising one of the most important nights of your best friend’s life – they can take the reigns and some of the pressure off you. The following locales have been pinpointed by previous satisfied hens and stags as fitting for a more scenic journey into married life:

  • Cornwall
  • Dorset
  • Wiltshire
  • Hertfordshire
  • Kent
  • Cardigan
  • Donegal
  • Aberdeenshire

Urban vs Rural: The Pros and Cons

It’s crucial to remember it’s not just about what you want to do; reflect on where the majority would like to go and you’re more likely to get a higher turnout of like-minded, raring-to-go revellers and help create one of the best bachelorette parties or stag nights, which they’ll remember for the rest of their lives.

If you’ve decided a country retreat is what’s in order for rewarding your social circle, this is in keeping with the trend of spending a long weekend away for your carousing instead of limiting yourself to just one evening. Just as well, as sometimes countryside destinations are harder to get to than their city cousins, which is all part of their appeal. Renting a cottage in the middle of nowhere is ideal for squeezing in precious bonding time before the big day, and you won’t get neighbours thumping on the wall like they might do if you were crammed in like sardines in city centre accommodation. During the day, you can wear yourself out by taking long hikes, pot-holing, game or clay pigeon shooting, fishing, surveying breathtaking scenery – perhaps even indulging in a spot of birdwatching, which doesn’t mean the same thing in the country as it does in the city.

Contrastingly, cities offer more nightlife, so if your stag or hen is fond of shaking their tail feathers (is that anatomically possible?), set them up with a city break.

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Off-Peak Day Trips: No Teachers Allowed!

December 10th, 2010 Tushar Mathur

On the one hand, anything that allows a bargain-price trip for the stocking up of lovely inexpensive booze from across the channel is a great gesture and one which is greatly appreciated – by the retired; by corporate couples who can take time off when they choose; by those who run their own business; in fact, by anyone who can pick their own holiday times but not by those who arguably in the most need of a lie-down in a darkened room with a crate of France’s finest  – teachers!

Any and all of these ‘£20 for one car’ or ‘£5 per person only’ offers from whichever ‘Come-Across-The-Channel-With-Us-We’re-Cheaper-Than-Them’ company you care to choose all fall smack in the middle of term time, effectively de-barring anybody who works hands-on in education (probably the wrong phrase but you know what I mean – in a school rather than in a county office).  There’s no acknowledgement that these very public servants are missing out on the deals: no IOU upholding the generous travel offer during the holidays upon proof of occupation (as if turning up at the terminal with a haggard expression and grey hair wasn’t enough); no corporate discounts, perhaps an ‘end of term’ rate for groups of teachers to have a turn a low-cost alcohol infusion (or a gander at the culture of Calais for the geography teaching fraternity).  Bad enough that because it’s high peak travel times (i.e. school holidays) teachers would still have to suffer being trapped in close proximity with a bunch of children (although possibly some of their own as opposed to everyone else’s) but they also have to pay the same ‘peak-time’ travel costs as everyone else.

So, when cross-channel company brain-storming next happens, how about throwing a special deal for teachers at a time they can use it, on to the table?  It may not bring you the travel remuneration usually demanded at high-peak times, but it will bring the teachers’ custom to cross-channel travel, rather than having them jump on the nearest plane – they do deserve it after all!

Musa Aykac is a guest blogger for Dover to Calais, he absolutely loves the internet and is a tech geek at heart.

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Planning a Flawless Bahamas Getaway

December 9th, 2010 Tushar Mathur

Vacations are an ideal way for individuals, couples and families to escape from the demands of daily life while experiencing new places. Choosing the perfect destination can be a daunting task with so many inviting locations across the Caribbean, but the Bahamas is a great choice for anyone looking to soak up the sun and relax by the sea.

From group activities and exciting attractions to weather conditions and lodging choices, each traveler has a unique set of needs. Parents with young children will be more interested in family-friendly activities, while some vacationers may be seeking a getaway geared towards more mature individuals. Regardless of the type of traveler you may be, the Bahamas provide an ideal destination to suit any lifestyle. The following are just a sampling of the key concepts to consider when planning your Bahamas vacation.

Lodging

One of the most important decisions made when planning a successful vacation is choosing a perfect lodging facility. Your accommodations will typically play the largest role in your overall Bahamas vacation experience. The options seem nearly endless, and include rental properties, all-inclusive resorts, family-friendly hotels, bed and breakfasts and more. Each lodging choice provides a different vacation experience.

At an all-inclusive resort, like the Sandals Royal Caribbean near Nassau, guests will be bathed in luxury while never having to worry about added expenses during their vacation. Rental properties allow for a more personal experience that attracts families and large groups. Those looking to experience everything that nature has to offer should think about staying at one of the island’s popular eco-resorts. While weighing your options, consider factors like distance to attractions, complimentary features, on-site facilities, accommodation design, and proximity to dining establishments.

Activities and Attractions

During your visit to the Bahamas, you will be greeted with a wide selection of different activities and attractions to fill your days. One of the most popular activities in the Bahamas is water sports. From snorkeling and fishing to sailing and sunbathing, there are a variety of options for enjoying the Bahamian waters. Visiting local beaches is also a great way to soak up the sun and relax. Those staying near Freeport should consider the secluded shores of Blister Beach, where vacationers can get away from it all. Some travelers may be more interested in visiting museums and historical landmarks. Popular sites in Nassau include the Queen’s Staircase and the towering Fort Fincastle. Regardless of your lifestyle, every vacationer can find the perfect activity for their interests. Many companies in the Bahamas offer thrilling packages that include fun activities and added bonuses, such as the multi-day dive packages offered by the Xanadu Undersea Adventures company.

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Atlanta Zoo-A Great Weekend Getaway

July 22nd, 2010 Tushar Mathur

When in Atlanta, the zoo of Atlanta is definitely worth visiting. It is located in Grant Park, a few minutes drive from the downtown. The parking is free and the ticket rates are not really exorbitant. The zoo remains open on all days except for Thanksgiving and Christmas. Atlanta zoo opens for the visitors at 9:30 a.m. in the morning up till 5:30 p.m. in the evening on weekdays. On weekends, it closes down at 6:30 p.m. Atlanta zoo is a perfect getaway.

The zoo of Atlanta, boasts of numerous varieties of animals and birds. There are nearly 50 species of birds found in the zoo. Zoo is home to several endangered species like African lions, tigers and African elephants. It is also fun to watch monkeys, lemurs, gorillas, giraffes and many other animals. There are approximately 1000 species of reptiles in the zoo. Rare species of lizards, and snakes can be seen. Besides, some endangered species of frogs are also housed.

The safari day camp organised by zoo Atlanta during the holidays can be a memorable experience for the children. It is an interesting way by which children learn about their environment, flora and fauna around them. Many schools bring their children on excursion trips to the zoo. Amazing live shows are held over the weekends. Visitors can also look forward to many other fun activities like Elephant talk, Giant Panda talk, bird show etc.

Zoo Atlanta has taken several research initiatives. The authorities are actively working on the preservation of certain species of plants and animals .The Species Survival Plan (SSP) is one such initiative. Research programs are being conducted on giant Pandas in collaboration with china.

The wild life enthusiasts can even make their own contributions in the conservation of flora and fauna and bring about a difference in the environment. People can sponsor an animal and make donations. The sponsors can enjoy certain privileges like getting a free ticket to zoo etc.

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A golf vacation

May 10th, 2010 Tushar Mathur

Of course, the main reason of going for a golf vacation is to play golf. But even if you don’t know anything about the rules, that’s not a problem. Companies, organizing tours, offer to take a golf course. Professionals will help you to learn everything you need and will teach you how not to kill other players with your club. But what if you don’t like golf? I can say only one thing. Give it a chance. Millions of people are fond of this sport, and it’s quickly becoming popular all over the world, and I don’t think that the world would be crazy about some junk.

Furthermore, golf is very fascinating sport. Why? Because it has some special air around itself. Also, there are no judges, referees or whatever – it’s all about honesty and respect. This is a spirit of golf. Golf players are that type of people who are easy to be with. They are polite and open.

It is a perfect kind of vacation for those who love clean air, beautiful nature and a spirit of competition. There aren’t two identical golf fields. Each field is unique. And visiting even one of them will really enrich your lives.

Another benefit of golf is that it’s available for all ages, from five years old kid to a fifty five year old man. You can take a whole family with you, including your grandpa. There is no need for big physical strength. All you need is your club and a good mood. Believe me, last one is provided. You will meet a lot of new and interesting people, have a good time in a good company and see some picturesque views. And moreover, you’ll learn to play golf. It’s a pretty good reason to go for a golf vacation, don’t you think?

But, even if you are a family of golf fanatics, I doubt all you will want to do is to play golf. Fortunately, most travel companies can provide you a lot more than just golf. All you need is to choose one, and they will do everything for you to have a proper vacation. And trust me; you will get an experience you’ll never forget.

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4 Must See Places To Visit in Australia

November 5th, 2009 Tushar Mathur

Australia’s history is complex, to say the least. An incredibly topographically varied land once primarily host to the aboriginals, and then later transformed into an English prison colony, Australia is now a thriving, sophisticated continent that has managed to preserve its wild side while sustaining one of the most culturally vibrant cities in the world. When visiting Australia, you absolutely must see these four places to get the full essence of the land down under.

1. Great Barrier Reef

Australia’s Great Barrier Reef isn’t exaggerating – there’s really no other place like it. The Reef stretches for 2600 kilometers and has about 900 separate islands. An incredible variety of sea life makes this place its home. The elaborate coral polyps that build the structures that make up the reef, which is the largest structure built by living creatures, make the Reef a beautiful view no matter what angle you approach it from, whether its from a scuba diving perspective, from the air, or even from space! Initially discovered by Western civilization in 1770 when James Cook accidentally ran his ship into the Reef, the Reef has been a spiritual place for the aboriginals for thousands of years, and continues to be a great place to fish and dive.

2. Uluru

This rock outcropping, which radiates in a gorgeous, deep red, especially at sunset, is located near the geographical heart of Australia, and figuratively is the continent’s center, and its actual highest point. Once a sacred aboriginal place (from which it derives its name) a visitor can climb Uluru in a day and take in an awe-inspiring view of the surrounding desert. The easy-to-walk plateau peak makes Uluru a place of contemplation and fun.

3. Sydney Harbor Bridge

If you prefer man-made wonders, the Sydney Harbor Bridge will delight your senses. Encompassing an iconic view of Australia’s capital city of Sydney, the bridge is both architecturally stunning and aesthetically pleasing. The world’s widest long span bridge, “The Coathanger” as it is called by locals, due its bowed out shape, takes in the Sydney Opera House and the gorgeous expanse of the city. For visitors who want to see the city all at once, there’s no better way than hopping a car across the Sydney Harbor Bridge.

4. Blue Mountains

While you’re in Sydney, you would benefit from planning an expedition to the Blue Mountains, which are within an hour’s drive of the capital. The gorgeous valleys, peaks and gorges feature incredible rock formations and vibrant outgrowths of vegetation. There are cave paintings, ancient dwellings and heart-stopping views interspersed among a variety of elevations.

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