Lanzarote (Spain-Canary Islands)
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Lanzarote is
probably the classiest of the Canary
Islands. There are
of course nice bits of
Tenerife, but they’re mostly in the north of the island,
where winter weather is lousy. The south is balmier, but
it’s a mess of concrete and all-day English breakfasts.
Lanzarote, on the other hand, has whitewashed villages
and black volcanic sands, tapas bars and surf breaks.
The island works hard to conserve its natural beauty,
especially the dramatic lava patterns in Timanfaya
National Park, where you should eat lunch at El Diablo,
a restaurant created by a local artist, Cesar Manrique,
with a kitchen that uses the volcano’s geothermal heat.
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The island is situated just
79 miles off the coast of Africa and is the most
easterly of the Canary Islands. It's
37 miles (60km) long and 12 miles (20 km) wide, making
it the fourth largest island in the Canaries.
Lanzarote enjoys a mild dry climate with average daytime
temperatures ranging from about 21°C in January to 29°C
in August. Annual rainfall is just 140mm (5.5 inches).
This makes the island the perfect year-round destination.
As with the other Canary Islands, Lanzarote is Volcanic
in origin. Due to the recent eruptions during the 18th
and 19th Centuries, many parts of Lanzarote appear to be
from another world, often described as 'lunar' or
'Martian'.
The dry climate (and lack of erosion) means that the
Volcanic Landscape appears much as it did just after the
eruptions.
Amongst the many stunning Volcanic features of Lanzarote
is the longest Volcanic Tunnel in the world, the
Atlantida Tunnel, which is over 7 km long and includes
the La Cueva de los Verdes and Jameos del Agua.
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There is a good choice of
apartments/villas and hotels throughout the island.
Puerto Del Carmen is quite built up. If you like
plenty of bars and chips then head here. Otherwise
we suggest Teguise or Playa Blanca which are a little
smaller and have more varied choice of bars/restaurants.
Though don't expect old or historic buildings.
Our big tip is when booking a hotel check if
the pool is heated. Whilst the pools look inviting
in winter months they can be quite cold. In fact
the sea can be warmer (just). |
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Despite the Volcanic nature of the island, Lanzarote has
several beautiful white beaches such as at Playa Blanca
and Papagayo. These can get busy in
high season but there's normally plenty of space if you
have a short short along the shoreline.
The good news is that local authority regulations on the amount and style of
development mean that there is no billboard advertising
and no high rise buildings in Lanzarote (with the
exception of the Grand Hotel in Arrecife). |
Most people arrive in Lanzarote by Air at Arrecife (ACE)
Airport. The Airport is located between Arrecife (the
Capital) and Puerto del Carmen.
The Taxi fare from the Airport to Puerto del Carmen is
roughly 12 Euros, from the Airport to Costa Teguise is
15 Euros and from the Airport to Playa Blanca is 30
Euros.
Journey times from the Airport to the main resorts are
(approx); Puerto del Carmen: 20 mins; Costa Teguise : 15
mins; Playa Blanca : 45 mins. |
The majority of people holidaying in Lanzarote arrive
on a Charter Flight (many are
midweek). However,
Easyjet and
Monarch currently offer scheduled services.
Iberia has non direct flights from UK.
It is also possible to fly to one of the other Canary
Islands and then get a Ferry or Flight to Lanzarote,
however it is very easy to become stranded on one of the
other islands overnight!
You can also travel to island from mainland Spain by
Boat. There is a weekly ferry that leaves Cadiz in
southern Spain.
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We say.
There's
lots of
choice for accommodation and flights (charter & scheduled).
Monarch, Easy Jet and Ryan Air offer scheduled services
from a variety of UK airports.
Book thru.
1.
Late offers are below through Thomson.
2. Or use our booking engine (right). It will search the UK's big
operators as well as specialist ones. All are bonded via
ABTA/ATOL and your booking is made with them.
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Our holidays
are offered by bonded UK Operators. |
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Maldives |
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Sun, sand and sea, a thousand
‘Robinson Crusoe’ islands, massive lagoons with
different depths and infinite shades of blue and
turquoise, dazzling underwater coral gardens; a perfect
natural combination for the ideal tropical holiday
destination.
Each resort in the Maldives is housed on a separate
island and offers an exotic blend of modern
luxury and isolated serenity. With no exception, all
resorts have soft sandy beaches, translucent clear
lagoons enclosed by house reefs inhabited by a variety
of marine flora and fauna and everything else you would
expect on a tropical holiday. However, each resort island
has its individual charm, character and ambience that
can best be appreciated through personal experience |
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A popular resort when it comes to the Maldives is the
Kuredu Island Resort, simply for
the reason it can offer something for everyone.
Regardless if you are on your honeymoon or taking a
family vacation you can guarantee you will find a number
of things to do while visiting the Maldives.
It’s located to the north of the Male’ Atoll in the
Lhaviyari Atoll, not too far from the capital of the
Maldives. You can get a sea plane transfer which would
only take around 40 minutes as it’s about 130km North of
Male’
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Laguna Beach Resort is an ideal getaway for any type
of vacation. A small gem in the garland of pearls on the
Indian Ocean that is the Maldives is truly a piece of
paradise.
A 30 minute dhoni-ride from the airport and
the capital yet not too close to many islands, Laguna is
the perfect romantic hideaway for honeymooners seeking
romance.
And if you are traveling with family, the
crystal-clear lagoons immediately surrounding the white
sands of Laguna Beach Resort are shallow enough for
young beach-lovers to enjoy while a few minute’s
snorkeling distance away colourful tropical fish swarm
over a magnificent house reef.
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Located in the North Male’ Atoll is the Kurumba Maldives
resort, this makes it a great hot spot because of the
stunning beaches this atoll has to offer. From when you
leave the airport it will only take around 15 minutes to
get to the resort by speedboat.
The best thing about this resort is the fact you can
make it a holiday based totally on you, only take part
in the activities you enjoy – bringing your family
closer than ever. Don’t get the idea of it being a
family resort, it’s great for couples to get away for a
romantic week or two. |
Whether you are after a quiet relaxing break away or
a vacation full of activities and entertainment then the
Kurumba resort is the solution. Take part in playing
table tennis, tennis or various water sports such as
snorkelling and diving. They have the facilities for you
to indulge in a spa, massage or maybe a quick workout in
the gym provided.
You will benefit from weekly entertainment including
karaoke, beach bars, live bands and nightclubs allowing
you to party the night away until the early hours of the
morning.
While you are staying in the Kurumba Maldives resort
you can experience some of the best cuisines the
Maldives has to offer whether it is an ocean barbeque
grill or traditional meals.
There are a number of small
places allowing you to get snacks and drinks so you can
be confident you will enjoy your stay in this resort.
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We say.
There's plenty of
choice with hotels and airlines. Charters are a
good value and you can pay extra for more comfort. Check your flight times, as boat transfers only operate
during daylight! Else you will spend a night by
the airport.
Book thru.
1.
Use our
booking engine (right). It will search UK operators for
great deals.
2. Monarch Holidays tend
to use charters and
have a good range of hotels and resorts.
3. Kuoni (often voted best tour operator) have discounts off
Maldives. Click the banner below. |
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Our holidays
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Las Vegas |
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Las Vegas, an ever-changing fantasy-land of a city,
has seen unbelievable expansion since it emerged from
the desert just over 100 years ago.
Each hotel is a resort with lots of people. Don't
come to Vegas if you can't bear to see glitz, glamour
and some over-exposed buildings and people.
The sights and sounds of Las Vegas are enjoyed by
over 39.2 million visitors every year. They stay in some
of the most glamorous, unique hotels in the world. They
eat at five-star restaurants and expansive buffets. They
play at casinos, pools, health spas and golf courses.
Sometimes (many times, actually) they even marry each
other.
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Yes you can gamble 24 hours
starting at the airport if you wish. Certainly
have a flutter but keep some money back for the journey
home.You will be dazzled by Vegas, but the sheer number of
things to see and do can seem overwhelming. A little
advance planning will help you to enjoy your Vegas trip.
Remember LV is in the desert so it will be hot
especially in Summer. Certainly try and book a
show and if time permits take a trip to the Canyon - you
will not regret it. As they say it's "awesome"! |
We say.
If you have at least 7-10 days or more we
suggest a fly-drive to take in L A and return
from Las Vegas. The roads are easy (once out of LA) and
you can take in the scenery on the way. Trade up
to a larger car (remember comfort and luggage).
Vegas is also a great mid-break destination. Fly direct
on Virgin from Gatwick and book the hotel direct.
Book thru.
Our booking engine
(right) will search for Las Vegas
holidays using companies like Monarch, Direct Holidays
and Virgin Holidays.
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Our holidays
are offered by bonded UK Operators.
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Dubai |
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Dubai extends a warm welcome to holiday makers as well
as business visitors, offering facilities of the highest
international standards combined with the charm and
adventure of Arabia - an exceptional blend of modern
city and timeless desert.
With a perfect winter climate, top class hotels,
superb facilities for a variety of sports and leisure
activities and excellent shopping, Dubai has something
to offer everyone. The emirate is friendly,
safe and virtually crime-free. You
should also respect local customs.
July-September is very very hot
but cheaper. There's not that must history to see
unless you visit the neighbouring countries. This
is more of a beach, eating and shopping holiday.
Though we would also recommend you go skiing !
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Some say Dubai is close on a match
for Las Vegas. We tend to disagree and for one
thing gamble you can't. There are plenty of cranes and congestion
at times. Rush hour and peak times
around the airport can be a surprise.
The hotels
though are often better than the Vegas ones in sheer
style and without the buzz of slot machines. Service is often better too. |
We say.
Avoid our summer! You will save some pounds
but you will lose them again in the heat! Nearly
every hotel is fantastic with larges pools and several
restaurants.
Also consider flying to Abu Dhabi to get to Dubai.
Check where your hotel is as this maybe nearer than
Dubai Airport.
Book thru.
There are lots of airlines to
pick (no charters
yet). If you are outside of London then Emirates has
the best choice. Else you can't get much better than
Virgin Atlantic.
We have a lot of dates available now via our booking engine
right. |
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Most people who think of Egypt think of
antiquities, but Egypt offers much more. Certainly
it is a prime location to see the
great heritage from the ancient world, including
Pyramids and wonderful
temples, but it is also a great
winter sun destination. Sharm on the Red Sea is
one such resort. In addition Egypt also offers nature and
desert treks, scuba diving and great golf.
You can choose to relax on the
wondrous Egypt Red Sea or Sinai coasts, take in the high
culture of Cairo, or even leisurely float down the
Egyptian Nile on a luxurious river boat.
There are so many places to see. Egyptian Antiquities
Museum, Al-Qalaa Citadel, Museum of Islamic Arts, Mosque
of Ibn Tulun, Mosque at Al-Azhar, Abdeen Palace Museum,
Abu Sir Pyramids, Manial Palace Museum, just to name a
few.
But But there are three places that if you miss, you might
as well not have even been to Egypt. |
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The Giza Pyramid
First place is of course the pyramids. The Giza Pyramids
were built as tombs for the great kings of Egypt, and
sometimes the queens as well. The driving force behind
the pyramids construction was the desire for eternity.
These world famous monuments were not in isolation but
they were constructed as a part of the funerary
complexes which include temples and shrines.
Did you realize that there are two types of pyramids
that not all pyramids were made the same? While most of
us believe that the heads on some of the pyramids
represent kings actually meant something different.
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Abu Abu Simbel Temples
As the story goes, back in 1813 a man named J. L.
Burkhardt stumbled upon an amazing site and brought it
to the attention of many Europeans. He came across the
facade of two temples built to as a dedication to
Ramesses II, and the other to his wife, Nefertari.
With these being such incredible finds, it led to many
Victorian travelers to make the trek up the Nile and
that at times they would get there to find the temples
completely covered in sand. You can still see these
amazing temples as they were hundreds of years ago, but
not where they were built originally. What do I mean by
that? |
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Valley of the Kings
Ramsees XI was the last king of the New Kingdom and his
is also the last king to have built a tomb in the Valley
of the Kings. Most are sure though that he never used
the tomb that he built.
What other secrets lay in wait for you here? Are there
kings buried in the valley? Are the royal families
buried there, as their final resting place before moving
onto to eternity?
There are two main branches of the Valley of the Kings.
There is the East Valley where most of the tombs are
located. There is also the West Valley and here you will
find only a few tombs. |
We say.
We consider a cruise on the Nile followed by a beach
or hotel resort for the ideal break. Summer months can
be very hot and the Nile low. Keep to bottled water and
hot or cleaned/fresh food. No ice!
Consider Sharm El Shiek as a good winter resort destination with big
hotels or Taba to be nicer.
Book thru.
Our
booking engine right will search for good deals at key
resorts. Also Monarch is popular in Egypt.
Thomas Cook have a good choice of Nile cruises from 3
star upwards. |
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Our holidays are offered by bonded UK Operators. |
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The legendary birthplace of the
goddess Aphrodite, Cyprus has been coveted and fought
over by a succession of admirers: naeans, Egyptians,
Assyrians and Persians, to name a few. The former
British colony was most recently fought over by the
Turks and the Greeks. A result of this turbulent past is
an impressive range of cultural treasures, from Crusader
castles to the tomb of Mohammed's aunt. The island's
geography - plentiful coastline with a mountainous
center - ensures plenty of year-round activity. |
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The The Island
continues to be spilt into two with the North being
occupied by Turkey.
The south is the much more
commercial, whereas the north can be quite un-touched.
They are flights to the north though you will touch-down
in Turkey first. This is to get around a rule that does
not allow direct flights. There are plenty of
direct flights to the south with all tastes catered
for. |
We say.
Hire a car or jeep. The island has some great
history and is easy to explore. If it's very hot,
head for the mountains where you will soon put on a
jumper. If you fancy exploring unspoilt resorts
head for the North. Ayia Napa & Paphos (in the
South) can be
very busy resorts July/Aug.
Book thru.
Our Booking Engine right will find holidays to
southern Cyprus. You can either fly into Larnaca
or Paphos depending on your resort. If the North is more
your cup of tea then go to a specialist (see right). The North should be kinder on
the wallet as you will use the Turkish Lira rather than
Cypriot Pound which offers greater value. |
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Our holidays are offered by bonded UK Operators. |
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