The long-awaited start of the summer holidays is expected this week with the travel industry bracing itself for a surge in bookings after the Olympics.
With the Games having captured the public’s imagination, many Britons are taking their holidays later than usual.
Two years ago there was a similar exodus when England was knocked out of the World Cup.
British Airways sought to capitalise on the mood encouraging passengers to stay at home and enjoy what has turned out to be a glut of gold medals.
The airline is now pushing holidaymakers to enjoy what it described as a “sizzling September” with offers including £100 off European holidays.
The first sign of the delayed great British exodus will be at Heathrow, which expects to deal with 116,000 departures tomorrow, compared with 95,000 on an average day.
While the numbers are initially being swelled by departing athletes, families and supporters, daily departures from Heathrow will hover around 110,000 for the rest of the week.
According to research carried out by the price comparison website, Travelsupermarket, more than 3million Britons have delayed their holiday because of the Olympics.
“By mid-August we’d expect most people to have booked their annual summer holiday or at the very least have something booked,” said Bob Atkinson, the company’s travel analyst.
“However, with the huge amount of us planning to go on post-Olympics breaks, many of which haven’t even been booked yet, this year is going to be a particularly late summer holiday season.”
Laurence Hicks, director of tour operator and holiday rentals company CLC Leisure, has noticed a similar trend.
"The end of July and beginning of August were relatively quiet but suddenly we have seen this massive upswing in booking and inquiries.
"Either we Brits don't want the party to end and intend to carry on celebrating the success of Team GB with a holiday or we are worn out by the emotional extremes of watching the Games and need a break.
"We knew that there would be a late-booking trend this year because people wanted to be part of a once-in-a-lifetime experience of London 2012 but the sudden rush has exceeded all expectations."
EasyJet has already noticed a surge, with nearly 200,000 passengers booked to depart tomorrow, with Athens and Alicante the most popular destinations.
Eurostar is also expecting a busy week with Britons crossing the Channel in droves for their delayed summer break.
According one aviation industry insider, airlines have had a slack summer and will be looking for a pick up in post Olympics departure to fill empty seats.
“It does look as if people have been deferring their holidays, so there is fair chance business will pick up.”
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Monday 13 August 2012
Monday 30 July 2012
E-Books Edge Ahead Of Paperbacks On UK Holidays
People are putting paperbacks aside on holiday and reaching for e-books instead, according to a survey.
E-reading devices such as the Kindle are now the preferred way to get stuck into a good novel while on a break, the poll by a leading online travel agency found.
A total of 1,928 UK adults who had been abroad on holiday in the last 12 months were surveyed.
Of those who had read while away, 51% had used an e-reader while 49% had opted for a traditional book.
E-readers were most popular among those aged 40 or more, with only 11% of 18-25-year-olds using them.
Of those who used an e-reader, 44% said it was easier to hold while 29% said it was easier to see in the sun.
Of those sticking with traditional books, 24% felt e-readers were too expensive while 46% said they "simply preferred books".
Find your next FABHoliday idea with FABTHINGS2do.
E-reading devices such as the Kindle are now the preferred way to get stuck into a good novel while on a break, the poll by a leading online travel agency found.
A total of 1,928 UK adults who had been abroad on holiday in the last 12 months were surveyed.
Of those who had read while away, 51% had used an e-reader while 49% had opted for a traditional book.
E-readers were most popular among those aged 40 or more, with only 11% of 18-25-year-olds using them.
Of those who used an e-reader, 44% said it was easier to hold while 29% said it was easier to see in the sun.
Of those sticking with traditional books, 24% felt e-readers were too expensive while 46% said they "simply preferred books".
Find your next FABHoliday idea with FABTHINGS2do.
Saturday 28 July 2012
Possibly The Best British Castle Stays
Roch Castle, Wales
A beautifully restored Norman castle high above Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. Refurbished as a five-star holiday let, it has six modern rooms encased within the heavy walls. Views are of the Irish Sea, St David's peninsula or wild Welsh countryside. The House Manager is on hand for breakfast, the larder is stocked, and a private chef is ready to rustle up a special evening meal.
Roch Castle, Roch, Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire, Wales SA62 6AQ (01422 323200; retreatsgroup.com). Weekly rental from £4,000, including breakfast. Sleeps 12.
Stonefield Castle Hotel, Scotland
One of Scotland's loveliest lochs is the setting for Stonefield Castle. This 19th-century baronial manor stands on the Kintyre peninsula, with spectacular views of Loch Fyne and acres of private woodland. A spot for bracing walks around the West Coast, rounded off with warming whisky and plates of local smoked salmon and oysters. By night, sequester yourself amid wood-panelled walls and period furnishings.
Stonefield Castle Hotel, Tarbert, Loch Fyne, Argyll, Scotland PA29 6YJ (01880 820836; stonefieldcastleargyll.co.uk). Doubles from £190, B&B.
Thornbury Castle, Gloucestershire
Play lord of the fortified manor at this Tudor castle on the fringes of the Cotswolds. Built in the early 16th century, it has welcomed Henry VIII (who had Thornbury's architect, also a distant cousin, executed) and Queen Mary, who lived here for several years. Now part of the Luxury Family Hotels portfolio, its impressive original features – coats of arms, carved ceilings and an on-site vineyard – are available for everyone to enjoy.
Thornbury Castle, Castle Street, Thornbury, Gloucestershire BS35 1HH (01454 281182; thornburycastle.co.uk). Doubles from €190, including breakfast.
Haldon Belvedere, Devon
Haldon Belvedere is a Grade II-listed triangular tower, also known as Lawrence Castle, in the heart of the Devon countryside. It was built in 1788, and renovated by the Devon Historic Buildings Trust in 1994 to include a top-floor apartment that makes the perfect romantic hideaway. Exeter is to the east, Dartmoor to the west, while Torquay and the beaches of South Hams are due south.
Haldon Belvedere, Higher Ashton, near Dunchideock, Devon EX6 7QY (01392 833846; haldonbelvedere. co.uk). Three-night rental from £325, self catering. Sleeps two.
Hazlewood Castle, Yorkshire
Hazlewood's halls have a history that stretches back centuries. The former monastery was recorded in the Domesday Book in 1086 and it's claimed a priest haunts the Tansy bedroom. Converted in 1997, it offers cosy, traditional rooms. Events throughout the year include Jazz Sunday lunches and champagne brunches ahead of horse race meetings at York and Wetherby.
Hazlewood Castle, Paradise Lane, Hazlewood, near Tadcaster, North Yorkshire LS24 9NJ (0808 1787666; hazlewood-castle.co.uk). Doubles start at £160, including breakfast.
Beauchamp Castle, Worcestershire
Lavish rooms set the scene at Beauchamp Castle, on the banks of the River Severn. Dodge the stuffed bear on the stairs to reach rich suites bedecked with suits of armour, coats of arms, rich red carpets and well-stocked bookshelves. The grounds are more sedate, with manicured lawns, a flagstone terrace and tennis courts. Worcester, Droitwich Spa and Kidderminster are a short drive, along with gentle walks in the Malvern Hills.
Beauchamp Castle, near Droitwich Spa, Worcestershire (0845 389 9582; statelyescapes.co.uk). Weekly rental from £6,714, self catering. Sleeps 16.
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A beautifully restored Norman castle high above Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. Refurbished as a five-star holiday let, it has six modern rooms encased within the heavy walls. Views are of the Irish Sea, St David's peninsula or wild Welsh countryside. The House Manager is on hand for breakfast, the larder is stocked, and a private chef is ready to rustle up a special evening meal.
Roch Castle, Roch, Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire, Wales SA62 6AQ (01422 323200; retreatsgroup.com). Weekly rental from £4,000, including breakfast. Sleeps 12.
Stonefield Castle Hotel, Scotland
One of Scotland's loveliest lochs is the setting for Stonefield Castle. This 19th-century baronial manor stands on the Kintyre peninsula, with spectacular views of Loch Fyne and acres of private woodland. A spot for bracing walks around the West Coast, rounded off with warming whisky and plates of local smoked salmon and oysters. By night, sequester yourself amid wood-panelled walls and period furnishings.
Stonefield Castle Hotel, Tarbert, Loch Fyne, Argyll, Scotland PA29 6YJ (01880 820836; stonefieldcastleargyll.co.uk). Doubles from £190, B&B.
Thornbury Castle, Gloucestershire
Play lord of the fortified manor at this Tudor castle on the fringes of the Cotswolds. Built in the early 16th century, it has welcomed Henry VIII (who had Thornbury's architect, also a distant cousin, executed) and Queen Mary, who lived here for several years. Now part of the Luxury Family Hotels portfolio, its impressive original features – coats of arms, carved ceilings and an on-site vineyard – are available for everyone to enjoy.
Thornbury Castle, Castle Street, Thornbury, Gloucestershire BS35 1HH (01454 281182; thornburycastle.co.uk). Doubles from €190, including breakfast.
Haldon Belvedere, Devon
Haldon Belvedere is a Grade II-listed triangular tower, also known as Lawrence Castle, in the heart of the Devon countryside. It was built in 1788, and renovated by the Devon Historic Buildings Trust in 1994 to include a top-floor apartment that makes the perfect romantic hideaway. Exeter is to the east, Dartmoor to the west, while Torquay and the beaches of South Hams are due south.
Haldon Belvedere, Higher Ashton, near Dunchideock, Devon EX6 7QY (01392 833846; haldonbelvedere. co.uk). Three-night rental from £325, self catering. Sleeps two.
Hazlewood Castle, Yorkshire
Hazlewood's halls have a history that stretches back centuries. The former monastery was recorded in the Domesday Book in 1086 and it's claimed a priest haunts the Tansy bedroom. Converted in 1997, it offers cosy, traditional rooms. Events throughout the year include Jazz Sunday lunches and champagne brunches ahead of horse race meetings at York and Wetherby.
Hazlewood Castle, Paradise Lane, Hazlewood, near Tadcaster, North Yorkshire LS24 9NJ (0808 1787666; hazlewood-castle.co.uk). Doubles start at £160, including breakfast.
Beauchamp Castle, Worcestershire
Lavish rooms set the scene at Beauchamp Castle, on the banks of the River Severn. Dodge the stuffed bear on the stairs to reach rich suites bedecked with suits of armour, coats of arms, rich red carpets and well-stocked bookshelves. The grounds are more sedate, with manicured lawns, a flagstone terrace and tennis courts. Worcester, Droitwich Spa and Kidderminster are a short drive, along with gentle walks in the Malvern Hills.
Beauchamp Castle, near Droitwich Spa, Worcestershire (0845 389 9582; statelyescapes.co.uk). Weekly rental from £6,714, self catering. Sleeps 16.
Find your next FABHoliday idea with FABTHINGS2do.
Friday 27 July 2012
Tips to Save You Money on Holiday This Summer
A big holiday abroad can be the experience of a lifetime, and often people save up for years to afford one great trip away. After so much preparation, you want to make sure that your holiday is perfect, and if possible, save a few pennies so you can spoil yourself that much more when it comes to getting on the plane.
First of all, get yourself a good exchange rate by using a service like Currencies Direct's travel-money service. Foreign exchange costs a surprising amount and particularly if you're changing a lot, a good company can save you a surprising amount. Unless you're going to the Eurozone, it's worth making sure you have a few dollars, and as the dollar to pounds rate is so good at the moment, they're more than worth it as a backup.
Next up, it's important that you get a good deal on your holiday insurance. That does not mean that you should go for the cheapest one available, but rather go for the one that represents the best value for money.
A good tip is to check out the Defaqto website, Defaqto is the independent body which judges the quality of products in the UK financial sector, so work your way through the list of Defaqto 5 star holiday insurances and pick the one that represents the best value for you.
Another good tip, particularly if you're going to somewhere which might not be quite as developed as the UK, is to buy things when you get there. This saves you a little space in your bag and maybe a lot of money. Things like suntan lotion are usually a lot cheaper abroad (except in Latin America) so it's worth waiting until you get out there before splashing out.
Again, depending on where you're going, it might be worth looking up local transport routes. Generally speaking you can buy things in advance from the UK, but a trip that could cost £50 when bought from the UK could cost a fraction of that when you get out to your destination, particularly if you're willing to hop on a bus with the other local travellers.
Last of all, restrict your mobile phone use when you get out there, if you're going to be at your destination for a long time it's worth buying a local sim, but otherwise, roaming data charges can be huge so it's best to reduce your phone use as much as possible.
Find your next FABHoliday idea with FABTHINGS2do.
First of all, get yourself a good exchange rate by using a service like Currencies Direct's travel-money service. Foreign exchange costs a surprising amount and particularly if you're changing a lot, a good company can save you a surprising amount. Unless you're going to the Eurozone, it's worth making sure you have a few dollars, and as the dollar to pounds rate is so good at the moment, they're more than worth it as a backup.
Next up, it's important that you get a good deal on your holiday insurance. That does not mean that you should go for the cheapest one available, but rather go for the one that represents the best value for money.
A good tip is to check out the Defaqto website, Defaqto is the independent body which judges the quality of products in the UK financial sector, so work your way through the list of Defaqto 5 star holiday insurances and pick the one that represents the best value for you.
Another good tip, particularly if you're going to somewhere which might not be quite as developed as the UK, is to buy things when you get there. This saves you a little space in your bag and maybe a lot of money. Things like suntan lotion are usually a lot cheaper abroad (except in Latin America) so it's worth waiting until you get out there before splashing out.
Again, depending on where you're going, it might be worth looking up local transport routes. Generally speaking you can buy things in advance from the UK, but a trip that could cost £50 when bought from the UK could cost a fraction of that when you get out to your destination, particularly if you're willing to hop on a bus with the other local travellers.
Last of all, restrict your mobile phone use when you get out there, if you're going to be at your destination for a long time it's worth buying a local sim, but otherwise, roaming data charges can be huge so it's best to reduce your phone use as much as possible.
Find your next FABHoliday idea with FABTHINGS2do.
Wednesday 25 July 2012
UK holiday spend on the rise
According to latest research released by MasterCard Cash Passport, three quarters of travellers expect to spend the same or more on their main holiday this year compared to 2011, despite concerns over the Eurozone and the costs associated with travel.
Results from a YouGov survey commissioned by the prepaid travel money card, Cash Passport, show that two thirds of us are taking a summer holiday.
Of these, one third (29 per cent) resolve to budget more for their holidays this year compared to 2011.
Two fifths (38 per cent) of 18-to-24-year-old holidaymakers are putting more money aside for spending compared to last year while one third of the over 55s are budgeting for an increase of up to 50 per cent on their holiday budgets.
As the strengthening pound means better exchange rates for those spending in Eurozone countries, less than one in ten (seven per cent) UK adults said they would be avoiding European holidays as a result of reported banking difficulties in destination countries.
Across the regions, only the south of England has a larger proportion of people budgeting to spend less on their summer holiday (31 per cent) compared to more (19 per cent), while Wales enjoys the largest percentage of people prepared to spend more on their holiday this year (37 per cent).
People in the East of England are expecting to spend 50 per cent more than they did last year, the highest proportion of all regions.
Jonathan Bennett, European sales director at Cash Passport, commented on the findings: “Faced with a difficult economic climate in the UK and elsewhere and perhaps even spurred on by the dismal weather so far this year, UK holidaymakers are staying positive about their main summer holiday and their expectations of getting away without worrying about bigger economic issues.
“For those going away but looking to tighten their belts and even those planning to spend more than last year, it remains important for people to be in control of their spending. Cash Passport customers can conveniently put aside their money and manage holiday budgets by using a prepaid card.”
Find your next FABHoliday idea with FABTHINGS2do.
Results from a YouGov survey commissioned by the prepaid travel money card, Cash Passport, show that two thirds of us are taking a summer holiday.
Of these, one third (29 per cent) resolve to budget more for their holidays this year compared to 2011.
Two fifths (38 per cent) of 18-to-24-year-old holidaymakers are putting more money aside for spending compared to last year while one third of the over 55s are budgeting for an increase of up to 50 per cent on their holiday budgets.
As the strengthening pound means better exchange rates for those spending in Eurozone countries, less than one in ten (seven per cent) UK adults said they would be avoiding European holidays as a result of reported banking difficulties in destination countries.
Across the regions, only the south of England has a larger proportion of people budgeting to spend less on their summer holiday (31 per cent) compared to more (19 per cent), while Wales enjoys the largest percentage of people prepared to spend more on their holiday this year (37 per cent).
People in the East of England are expecting to spend 50 per cent more than they did last year, the highest proportion of all regions.
Jonathan Bennett, European sales director at Cash Passport, commented on the findings: “Faced with a difficult economic climate in the UK and elsewhere and perhaps even spurred on by the dismal weather so far this year, UK holidaymakers are staying positive about their main summer holiday and their expectations of getting away without worrying about bigger economic issues.
“For those going away but looking to tighten their belts and even those planning to spend more than last year, it remains important for people to be in control of their spending. Cash Passport customers can conveniently put aside their money and manage holiday budgets by using a prepaid card.”
Find your next FABHoliday idea with FABTHINGS2do.
Tuesday 24 July 2012
Benefits of Owning a Caravan
If you had a UK holiday home by the sea how often would you visit? Every weekend? Once a month? All of the Summer holidays?
How would you like to spend your time when you get there? Take a swim in the sea, a dip in the pool, relax in the hot tub or the sauna. Maybe have some well deserved "me time" in the spa, burn off some calories in the gym, play a round of golf, a game of bowls, go to a wine tasting or chocolate making workshop? Maybe you just want to meet up with old friends at a communal BBQ or go on a nature ramble along the cliff tops with the dog. Have you got some grandchildren you need to entertain during the summer holidays whilst your kids are working?
A seaside location usually comes at a premium price however if someone else already has the land and your static holiday homes located on there with all of these great facilities at your disposal then it's a very affordable and attractive option.
Haven have 34 holiday parks dotted around the coastline and 23,000 families all enjoying the benefits of
owning holiday homes. Cliff Marsh from Somerset is an owner at Devon Cliffs holiday park in Exmouth. He says, "The best part about being an owner for me is picking the girls up from school on Friday at half three and being on the deck with a chilled glass of wine by half four. It's the best way to start the weekend."
Site fees vary between £2,950 and £7,500 a year (depending on park locations and your location within each park). These site fees pay for maintenance, 24 hour security and exclusive park facilities. Owners can offset some or all of these costs by subletting their caravan and Haven will manage the subletting.
The price of our holiday homes can range from £11,995 to over £100,000, depending on the park and your location on it, the model of holiday home you choose and whether it's new or pre-owned.
Find your next FABHoliday idea with FABTHINGS2do.
How would you like to spend your time when you get there? Take a swim in the sea, a dip in the pool, relax in the hot tub or the sauna. Maybe have some well deserved "me time" in the spa, burn off some calories in the gym, play a round of golf, a game of bowls, go to a wine tasting or chocolate making workshop? Maybe you just want to meet up with old friends at a communal BBQ or go on a nature ramble along the cliff tops with the dog. Have you got some grandchildren you need to entertain during the summer holidays whilst your kids are working?
A seaside location usually comes at a premium price however if someone else already has the land and your static holiday homes located on there with all of these great facilities at your disposal then it's a very affordable and attractive option.
Haven have 34 holiday parks dotted around the coastline and 23,000 families all enjoying the benefits of
owning holiday homes. Cliff Marsh from Somerset is an owner at Devon Cliffs holiday park in Exmouth. He says, "The best part about being an owner for me is picking the girls up from school on Friday at half three and being on the deck with a chilled glass of wine by half four. It's the best way to start the weekend."
Site fees vary between £2,950 and £7,500 a year (depending on park locations and your location within each park). These site fees pay for maintenance, 24 hour security and exclusive park facilities. Owners can offset some or all of these costs by subletting their caravan and Haven will manage the subletting.
The price of our holiday homes can range from £11,995 to over £100,000, depending on the park and your location on it, the model of holiday home you choose and whether it's new or pre-owned.
Find your next FABHoliday idea with FABTHINGS2do.
Friday 20 July 2012
Schools out! Two million Brits head abroad
This weekend marks the start of the summer holiday getaway and is expected to be one of the busiest of the year at UK airports, with thousands also arriving for the Olympics. Eurozone destinations are proving popular with holidaymakers looking to take advantage of the pound’s strengthening against the Euro, coupled with the fact that many bars and restaurants have lowered their prices.
Two million holidaymakers are expected to head overseas this weekend after schools break up for the summer.
According to Abta, the majority will be heading to Spain, with the Canary and Balearic Islands being extremely popular.
Abta said airports will be extremely busy, with 482,000 passengers leaving from Heathrow, 275,000 from Gatwick, 132,500 from Stansted and 70,000 from Luton this weekend.
Over 100,000 will be leaving from Scottish airports with 50,000 from Glasgow alone.
It is expected that 297,000 will leave from Manchester, 64,000 from Birmingham and 45,000 from Bristol.
The travel organisation said Turkey and Greece were also proving popular with Brits.
With the pound at its strongest against the euro for almost four years, British holidaymakers are receiving 11.5%more value for their money than this time last year.
Find your next FABHoliday idea with FABTHINGS2do.
Two million holidaymakers are expected to head overseas this weekend after schools break up for the summer.
According to Abta, the majority will be heading to Spain, with the Canary and Balearic Islands being extremely popular.
Abta said airports will be extremely busy, with 482,000 passengers leaving from Heathrow, 275,000 from Gatwick, 132,500 from Stansted and 70,000 from Luton this weekend.
Over 100,000 will be leaving from Scottish airports with 50,000 from Glasgow alone.
It is expected that 297,000 will leave from Manchester, 64,000 from Birmingham and 45,000 from Bristol.
The travel organisation said Turkey and Greece were also proving popular with Brits.
With the pound at its strongest against the euro for almost four years, British holidaymakers are receiving 11.5%more value for their money than this time last year.
Find your next FABHoliday idea with FABTHINGS2do.
Thursday 19 July 2012
Peace Camp to light up UK coastline for London 2012
A striking series of illuminations will highlight some of Britain's most remote and beautiful coastal areas as part of the London 2012 Festival.
In eight locations ranging from County Antrim in Northern Island to Sussex, the project, known as Peace Camp, will see a total of 2,000 tents lit up from today (July 19) until Sunday.
Described as a "coastal installation celebrating love, poetry and landscape", the installation will allow visitors to wander among hundreds of tents, listening to a “soundscape” made up of poems spoken in different dialects.
It features the work of artists ranging from John Donne to Carol Ann Duffy, as well as the voices of actors and poets such as Andrew Motion, Eileen Atkins and Bill Paterson.
Alongside the poetry readings there will also be music, spoken fragments and the sounds of the natural environment, all of which will be listened to via personal headsets.
The installations will be free to visit, with the tents being illuminated from nightfall at 9.30pm to 5.30am.
The full list of sites where the display will be taking place include: Cemaes Bay, Anglesey, Wales; White Park Bay on the North Antrim coast; Mussenden Temple and Downhill Beach, Borough of Coleraine, Northern Ireland; Cliff Beach at Valtos on the Isle of Lewis in the Outer Hebrides, Scotland; Fort Fiddes, Cullykhan Bay, Aberdeenshire, Scotland; Dunstanburgh Castle, Northumberland; Cuckmere Haven, Sussex; and Godvery, Cornwall.
More information is available at peacecamp2012.com
Find your next FABHoliday idea with FABTHINGS2do.
In eight locations ranging from County Antrim in Northern Island to Sussex, the project, known as Peace Camp, will see a total of 2,000 tents lit up from today (July 19) until Sunday.
Described as a "coastal installation celebrating love, poetry and landscape", the installation will allow visitors to wander among hundreds of tents, listening to a “soundscape” made up of poems spoken in different dialects.
It features the work of artists ranging from John Donne to Carol Ann Duffy, as well as the voices of actors and poets such as Andrew Motion, Eileen Atkins and Bill Paterson.
Alongside the poetry readings there will also be music, spoken fragments and the sounds of the natural environment, all of which will be listened to via personal headsets.
The installations will be free to visit, with the tents being illuminated from nightfall at 9.30pm to 5.30am.
The full list of sites where the display will be taking place include: Cemaes Bay, Anglesey, Wales; White Park Bay on the North Antrim coast; Mussenden Temple and Downhill Beach, Borough of Coleraine, Northern Ireland; Cliff Beach at Valtos on the Isle of Lewis in the Outer Hebrides, Scotland; Fort Fiddes, Cullykhan Bay, Aberdeenshire, Scotland; Dunstanburgh Castle, Northumberland; Cuckmere Haven, Sussex; and Godvery, Cornwall.
More information is available at peacecamp2012.com
Find your next FABHoliday idea with FABTHINGS2do.
Wednesday 18 July 2012
Things to do with the kids in the summer holidays
Summer family days out don't need to cost a fortune. Here's our guide to some great cheap and free options around the UK.
It’s summer holiday time again. But more and more of us are cutting back on days out due to the cost, according to new research by charity Family Action.
If you want to entertain the kids this summer, you don’t have to spend a fortune. There are loads of cheap and free activities going on across the UK – here are just some of them.
Free swimming
To coincide with the Olympics, British Gas is offering free swims between now and the end of August, even if you’re not a customer. You can get a free swim (or other activity, such as aqua aerobics) for an adult and up to two children, depending on the venue.
To find out more and get your free swims, go to the British Gas Swimming website.
If you live in Wales, children 16 and under can go to your local swimming pool for free during the school holidays - there's more details at the Sport Wales website. Some local councils in England and Scotland also offer free swimming – check your local council's website to see if it's one of them.
Free football skills
If your kids love football and are aged between five and 11, why not get them along to a free FA Tesco Skills coaching session? There are free tasters available at schools around the UK.
For more info and to book, head to the official website.
Free sports
Asda runs the Asda Active programme over the summer holidays, encouraging families to try out free sports together.
You can find out when it’s visiting your area at the Asda Active website.
Get into the Olympic spirit for free
If you want to watch the Games outside, there will be a number of Live Sites popping up all over the UK in the run-up to 27th July. As well as showing the sporting action on a big screen, there will be a programme of live entertainment.
Find out more about the Live Sites around the UK at the London 2012 Live Sites pages.
If you live in London or nearby, there’s a huge programme of free events planned for the Live Sites in Hyde Park, Potters Fields, Victoria Park, Waltham Forest and Woolwich. There will be live concerts from the likes of McFly, Alexandra Burke, Rebecca Ferguson, Tom Jones and The Temper Trap.
You can find out more about what’s going on at the London 2012 website.
Go to a free museum or art gallery
Loads of our museums are free to enter, from London’s Science and Natural History collections to the newly-opened Museum of Liverpool and the Riverside Museum in Glasgow. The Visit Britain website has a good list.
If you want something a bit more artistic, how about the Yorkshire Sculpture Park or the weird ‘n’ wonderful delights of Tate Modern in London?
Again, Visit Britain has a good list on its website.
But don’t forget the museums and art galleries on your doorstep – many have free events throughout the holidays.
Free festivals and events
Every weekend during the summer is crammed with free festivals and events of one kind or another (with lots for grown-ups to do too)
The Edinburgh Festival and Fringe Festival have plenty of free performances and activities during August. And the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta from the 9th to 12th August is one of the biggest free festivals in the country.
Get out and play
Playday is a national day celebrating children playing outdoors. There will be free events throughout the nation, most of which will take place on the day itself, which this year is 1st August.
You can see what’s happening near you at the Playday website.
Explore a new place
The National Trust runs a series of family events on its properties and land throughout the summer months, many of which are free or very cheap to take part in.
For a list, go to the Trust’s website
Go to the cinema for less
If it's raining going to the movies is a good option, but can be very expensive. However, there are a range of cheaper options.
Vue Cinemas have children's films showing on Saturdays and Sundays and every day in the school holidays for just £1.50 per child (one adult per child goes free, 3D films are £2.75). Odeon Kids shows films on Saturdays and Saturdays and many also run them in the school holidays from £2.50 (one adult per child goes free again). Meanwhile, Cineworld runs Movies For Juniors at many of its cinemas on Saturday and Sunday mornings (it hasn't extended this to school holidays), where adults and children pay £1 apiece.
And if you're an Orange phone customer, you can take advantage of the two-for-one Orange Wednesdays promotion at most cinemas.
Cheap train travel
If you travel a lot by train with children aged between five and 16, you might find a Family & Friends Railcard a good option. It costs £28 a year and gives you a third off adult travel and 60% off kids' tickets. Even better, it's valid for up to four adults and four children. Note that you can only use it on off-peak trains.
Find out more at the Family & Friends Railcard website.
Find your next FABHoliday idea with FABTHINGS2do.
It’s summer holiday time again. But more and more of us are cutting back on days out due to the cost, according to new research by charity Family Action.
If you want to entertain the kids this summer, you don’t have to spend a fortune. There are loads of cheap and free activities going on across the UK – here are just some of them.
Free swimming
To coincide with the Olympics, British Gas is offering free swims between now and the end of August, even if you’re not a customer. You can get a free swim (or other activity, such as aqua aerobics) for an adult and up to two children, depending on the venue.
To find out more and get your free swims, go to the British Gas Swimming website.
If you live in Wales, children 16 and under can go to your local swimming pool for free during the school holidays - there's more details at the Sport Wales website. Some local councils in England and Scotland also offer free swimming – check your local council's website to see if it's one of them.
Free football skills
If your kids love football and are aged between five and 11, why not get them along to a free FA Tesco Skills coaching session? There are free tasters available at schools around the UK.
For more info and to book, head to the official website.
Free sports
Asda runs the Asda Active programme over the summer holidays, encouraging families to try out free sports together.
You can find out when it’s visiting your area at the Asda Active website.
Get into the Olympic spirit for free
If you want to watch the Games outside, there will be a number of Live Sites popping up all over the UK in the run-up to 27th July. As well as showing the sporting action on a big screen, there will be a programme of live entertainment.
Find out more about the Live Sites around the UK at the London 2012 Live Sites pages.
If you live in London or nearby, there’s a huge programme of free events planned for the Live Sites in Hyde Park, Potters Fields, Victoria Park, Waltham Forest and Woolwich. There will be live concerts from the likes of McFly, Alexandra Burke, Rebecca Ferguson, Tom Jones and The Temper Trap.
You can find out more about what’s going on at the London 2012 website.
Go to a free museum or art gallery
Loads of our museums are free to enter, from London’s Science and Natural History collections to the newly-opened Museum of Liverpool and the Riverside Museum in Glasgow. The Visit Britain website has a good list.
If you want something a bit more artistic, how about the Yorkshire Sculpture Park or the weird ‘n’ wonderful delights of Tate Modern in London?
Again, Visit Britain has a good list on its website.
But don’t forget the museums and art galleries on your doorstep – many have free events throughout the holidays.
Free festivals and events
Every weekend during the summer is crammed with free festivals and events of one kind or another (with lots for grown-ups to do too)
The Edinburgh Festival and Fringe Festival have plenty of free performances and activities during August. And the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta from the 9th to 12th August is one of the biggest free festivals in the country.
Get out and play
Playday is a national day celebrating children playing outdoors. There will be free events throughout the nation, most of which will take place on the day itself, which this year is 1st August.
You can see what’s happening near you at the Playday website.
Explore a new place
The National Trust runs a series of family events on its properties and land throughout the summer months, many of which are free or very cheap to take part in.
For a list, go to the Trust’s website
Go to the cinema for less
If it's raining going to the movies is a good option, but can be very expensive. However, there are a range of cheaper options.
Vue Cinemas have children's films showing on Saturdays and Sundays and every day in the school holidays for just £1.50 per child (one adult per child goes free, 3D films are £2.75). Odeon Kids shows films on Saturdays and Saturdays and many also run them in the school holidays from £2.50 (one adult per child goes free again). Meanwhile, Cineworld runs Movies For Juniors at many of its cinemas on Saturday and Sunday mornings (it hasn't extended this to school holidays), where adults and children pay £1 apiece.
And if you're an Orange phone customer, you can take advantage of the two-for-one Orange Wednesdays promotion at most cinemas.
Cheap train travel
If you travel a lot by train with children aged between five and 16, you might find a Family & Friends Railcard a good option. It costs £28 a year and gives you a third off adult travel and 60% off kids' tickets. Even better, it's valid for up to four adults and four children. Note that you can only use it on off-peak trains.
Find out more at the Family & Friends Railcard website.
Find your next FABHoliday idea with FABTHINGS2do.
School's out for summer 2012
The last week of July marks the beginning of the summer holidays in the UK and the annual rush to the airport is set to begin.
The persistent rain we’re experiencing seems to be threatening any chance of a domestic holiday, urging families to escape to warmer climes, recently lowcostholidays.com reported a yearly increase of 103 per cent on family holiday related searches in June this year.
Just in time for the school holidays, here’s what is new in five of the UK’s favourite destinations for family holidays.
Traditional sun and sea in Majorca
Majorca remains a favourite for UK families, with over nine million visitors enjoying the island’s universal appeal in 2011. The biggest of the Balearic Islands is home to 554km of exotic coastline, understated natural beauty and a mix of modern attractions that keep families returning year after year. Known as the birthplace of the package holiday, Majorca offers families traditional fun in the sun, but is also beginning to offer more diverse holidays, ideal for adventure seeking families. Active breaks in the rural Tramuntana Mountains are amongst the new trends on the island.
New for 2012: Majorca is set to be the first destination in Europe to enjoy artificial surfing. Two flow barrel machines are being installed in the beach resort of Calvia, making Majorca a new hotspot for novices and surf enthusiasts.
Thrill-seeking in Florida
Florida reigns supreme as the go-to destination for fun-seeking families. With guaranteed hot weather and the biggest and best attractions, it is a playground for young children, teenagers and parents alike. Thrill-seekers are catered for with an incredible selection of theme parks, whilst younger children remain enchanted with the magic of the Disney theme parks. Parents are not left out either; Florida is home to some of the world’s most loved golf courses and a fantastic selection of shopping outlets.
New for 2012: SeaWorld in Orlando is creating a new Freshwater Oasis for visitors to enjoy in 2012. The new attraction allows visitors swim alongside Asian otters, and enjoy a 3D Turtle Trek experience.
Beach lovers in Turkey
Turkey strikes a great balance between culture and relaxation, with the eastern Mediterranean country a favourite destination for beach-loving families. Surrounded by four different oceans, Turkey’s beaches are some of Europe’s most diverse and loved stretches of sand. The country is home to an incredible 352 blue flag beaches, detailing the incredible natural beauty of the Turkish coastline. OluDeniz is one of Turkey’s most celebrated beaches and was recently voted Europe’s top beach. The resort is also renowned as a centre of excellence for paragliding.
New for 2012: Adaland Water Park has recently been renovated, adding the exciting water coaster ride to its already impressive list of attractions which include a dolphin park and sea park.
Red Sea adventures in Egypt
Competing with Turkey as a resort for relaxing beach breaks, Egypt has grown to be one of the UK’s favourite family holiday destinations. Beach resorts such as Sharm El Sheikh on the Sinai have been largely unaffected by events elsewhere in the country, with families still attracted by Egypt’s year-round sunshine and selection of luxury hotels. The resort’s now world-renowned diving is also a highlight. The 1950s saw famous diving pioneer Hans Has ‘discover’ diving in Sharm El Sheikh, paving the way for today’s facilities, which include snorkelling, diving and even specially designed children’s diving excursions.
New for 2012: Soho Square in Sharm El Sheikh is home to an ice rink, a bowling alley and numerous other great family attractions (not to mention the shopping). Every year they tip the cheesy entertainment scales, with acts such as former Eurovision stars Ruslana, and the likes of Peter Andre – if you’re in need of a good laugh, check their website’s listing pages.
Terrific trips in Tenerife
Tenerife is an island of diversity, making a favourite with families seeking culture, excitement or relaxation. Day trips are a great way to explore all that the island has to offer and include trekking up a volcano, boat trips to watch whales and dolphins, Thai themed water parks and enough hotels with children’s pools and activity clubs to suit even the fussiest of families. The weather on The Island of Eternal Spring is warm year round and doesn’t get too hot in the summer, averaging around 26C in August, meaning little ones won’t be uncomfortable.
New for 2012: 15 of Tenerife’s beaches have been awarded the coveted Blue Flag awards for 2012. Parents can rest easy knowing that the beaches here are clean, the waters are safe and you will never be short of ice cream shops or places to buy buckets and spades.
Find your next FABHoliday idea with FABTHINGS2do.
The persistent rain we’re experiencing seems to be threatening any chance of a domestic holiday, urging families to escape to warmer climes, recently lowcostholidays.com reported a yearly increase of 103 per cent on family holiday related searches in June this year.
Just in time for the school holidays, here’s what is new in five of the UK’s favourite destinations for family holidays.
Traditional sun and sea in Majorca
Majorca remains a favourite for UK families, with over nine million visitors enjoying the island’s universal appeal in 2011. The biggest of the Balearic Islands is home to 554km of exotic coastline, understated natural beauty and a mix of modern attractions that keep families returning year after year. Known as the birthplace of the package holiday, Majorca offers families traditional fun in the sun, but is also beginning to offer more diverse holidays, ideal for adventure seeking families. Active breaks in the rural Tramuntana Mountains are amongst the new trends on the island.
New for 2012: Majorca is set to be the first destination in Europe to enjoy artificial surfing. Two flow barrel machines are being installed in the beach resort of Calvia, making Majorca a new hotspot for novices and surf enthusiasts.
Thrill-seeking in Florida
Florida reigns supreme as the go-to destination for fun-seeking families. With guaranteed hot weather and the biggest and best attractions, it is a playground for young children, teenagers and parents alike. Thrill-seekers are catered for with an incredible selection of theme parks, whilst younger children remain enchanted with the magic of the Disney theme parks. Parents are not left out either; Florida is home to some of the world’s most loved golf courses and a fantastic selection of shopping outlets.
New for 2012: SeaWorld in Orlando is creating a new Freshwater Oasis for visitors to enjoy in 2012. The new attraction allows visitors swim alongside Asian otters, and enjoy a 3D Turtle Trek experience.
Beach lovers in Turkey
Turkey strikes a great balance between culture and relaxation, with the eastern Mediterranean country a favourite destination for beach-loving families. Surrounded by four different oceans, Turkey’s beaches are some of Europe’s most diverse and loved stretches of sand. The country is home to an incredible 352 blue flag beaches, detailing the incredible natural beauty of the Turkish coastline. OluDeniz is one of Turkey’s most celebrated beaches and was recently voted Europe’s top beach. The resort is also renowned as a centre of excellence for paragliding.
New for 2012: Adaland Water Park has recently been renovated, adding the exciting water coaster ride to its already impressive list of attractions which include a dolphin park and sea park.
Red Sea adventures in Egypt
Competing with Turkey as a resort for relaxing beach breaks, Egypt has grown to be one of the UK’s favourite family holiday destinations. Beach resorts such as Sharm El Sheikh on the Sinai have been largely unaffected by events elsewhere in the country, with families still attracted by Egypt’s year-round sunshine and selection of luxury hotels. The resort’s now world-renowned diving is also a highlight. The 1950s saw famous diving pioneer Hans Has ‘discover’ diving in Sharm El Sheikh, paving the way for today’s facilities, which include snorkelling, diving and even specially designed children’s diving excursions.
New for 2012: Soho Square in Sharm El Sheikh is home to an ice rink, a bowling alley and numerous other great family attractions (not to mention the shopping). Every year they tip the cheesy entertainment scales, with acts such as former Eurovision stars Ruslana, and the likes of Peter Andre – if you’re in need of a good laugh, check their website’s listing pages.
Terrific trips in Tenerife
Tenerife is an island of diversity, making a favourite with families seeking culture, excitement or relaxation. Day trips are a great way to explore all that the island has to offer and include trekking up a volcano, boat trips to watch whales and dolphins, Thai themed water parks and enough hotels with children’s pools and activity clubs to suit even the fussiest of families. The weather on The Island of Eternal Spring is warm year round and doesn’t get too hot in the summer, averaging around 26C in August, meaning little ones won’t be uncomfortable.
New for 2012: 15 of Tenerife’s beaches have been awarded the coveted Blue Flag awards for 2012. Parents can rest easy knowing that the beaches here are clean, the waters are safe and you will never be short of ice cream shops or places to buy buckets and spades.
Find your next FABHoliday idea with FABTHINGS2do.
Tuesday 17 July 2012
Fancy a holiday in space
A company in the Isle of Man is offering travellers a chance to go - into space.
The trips to the moon and beyond will take place using a Russian space ship - but for a very hefty price.
If you ever have £100 million to throw around, one British company is offering up the chance for you to throw it their way in return for a trip to the moon.
Excalibur Almaz is offering up a 500,000-mile round trip ticket to the moon on a converted Soviet-era space station.
Art Dula, founder and chief executive of the company, said in a space tourism meeting in London that they are ready to sell tickets, with flights taking place as early as 2015.
Although being rich is the most important qualification to dish out the £100 million, participants must also pass the necessary level of physical and mental fitness.
The Soviet “Almaz” space stations were designed for orbital spying operations, and are being converted by the company for the travel.
Excalibur Almaz is attaching thrusters to the station to convert them into long-distance spaceships. Four re-entry capsules will ferry three people at a time to the space station and return them to Earth.
All of the space vehicles are being housed in hangers on the Isle of Man, while one of the re-usable return vehicles (RRV) is being exhibited outside the Queen Elizabeth II conference center in London.
If everything goes according to plan, the British company will be the first to carry out a manned moon mission since Apollo 17 in 1972.
The goal is for three people to fly to the moon, orbit the surface, and then safely return back to Earth, parachuting to the ground in an RRV.
Most of the flying will be controlled by a computer, but a human pilot for the spacecraft will still be provided for the tourists.
Dula said that around 30 moon-mission seats could be taken up between 2015 and 2025, making enough trips for one mission a year.
“Excalibur Almaz is willing and able to send crewed missions deeper into space than would be possible aboard any other spacecraft in existence today,” said Mr Dula. “Our fleet of space stations and re-entry capsules enables us to safely fly members of the public to moon orbit as early as 2015.”
He said there is no single vessel, whether owned by a government or private sector, that is suitable for a manned flight to the Moon, utilizing proven technologies.
“The EA fleet has previously flown to space several times and will undertake many more missions,” he told the space tourism meeting attendees. “It contains vessels of a design that has spent thousands of hours in space successfully. This is scientific fact, not fiction.”
The company will be sending the Almaz space station up into orbit by using a giant Russian Proton rocket. The other space station will be kept in reserve on the ground.
The space station has about 3,200 cubic feet of living space, and also provides a “refuge” where crew members can take shelter in the event of a solar radiation storm.
Dula chose the Isle of Man to host its space vehicles to take advantage of tax benefits, and because it has become a hub of space industry. Of the 54 international space satellites companies, 30 are located on the island.
He said that he doesn’t just envision trips being taken to the moon, but unmanned research missions, transportation of people and cargo, and chartered space exploration flights to be future endeavors by the company.
“This is a paradigm shift,” Dula told the meeting. “Whether we do it or somebody else does it, it’s never going to go back to being national space programs.”
Find your next FABHoliday idea with FABTHINGS2do.
The trips to the moon and beyond will take place using a Russian space ship - but for a very hefty price.
If you ever have £100 million to throw around, one British company is offering up the chance for you to throw it their way in return for a trip to the moon.
Excalibur Almaz is offering up a 500,000-mile round trip ticket to the moon on a converted Soviet-era space station.
Art Dula, founder and chief executive of the company, said in a space tourism meeting in London that they are ready to sell tickets, with flights taking place as early as 2015.
Although being rich is the most important qualification to dish out the £100 million, participants must also pass the necessary level of physical and mental fitness.
The Soviet “Almaz” space stations were designed for orbital spying operations, and are being converted by the company for the travel.
Excalibur Almaz is attaching thrusters to the station to convert them into long-distance spaceships. Four re-entry capsules will ferry three people at a time to the space station and return them to Earth.
All of the space vehicles are being housed in hangers on the Isle of Man, while one of the re-usable return vehicles (RRV) is being exhibited outside the Queen Elizabeth II conference center in London.
If everything goes according to plan, the British company will be the first to carry out a manned moon mission since Apollo 17 in 1972.
The goal is for three people to fly to the moon, orbit the surface, and then safely return back to Earth, parachuting to the ground in an RRV.
Most of the flying will be controlled by a computer, but a human pilot for the spacecraft will still be provided for the tourists.
Dula said that around 30 moon-mission seats could be taken up between 2015 and 2025, making enough trips for one mission a year.
“Excalibur Almaz is willing and able to send crewed missions deeper into space than would be possible aboard any other spacecraft in existence today,” said Mr Dula. “Our fleet of space stations and re-entry capsules enables us to safely fly members of the public to moon orbit as early as 2015.”
He said there is no single vessel, whether owned by a government or private sector, that is suitable for a manned flight to the Moon, utilizing proven technologies.
“The EA fleet has previously flown to space several times and will undertake many more missions,” he told the space tourism meeting attendees. “It contains vessels of a design that has spent thousands of hours in space successfully. This is scientific fact, not fiction.”
The company will be sending the Almaz space station up into orbit by using a giant Russian Proton rocket. The other space station will be kept in reserve on the ground.
The space station has about 3,200 cubic feet of living space, and also provides a “refuge” where crew members can take shelter in the event of a solar radiation storm.
Dula chose the Isle of Man to host its space vehicles to take advantage of tax benefits, and because it has become a hub of space industry. Of the 54 international space satellites companies, 30 are located on the island.
He said that he doesn’t just envision trips being taken to the moon, but unmanned research missions, transportation of people and cargo, and chartered space exploration flights to be future endeavors by the company.
“This is a paradigm shift,” Dula told the meeting. “Whether we do it or somebody else does it, it’s never going to go back to being national space programs.”
Find your next FABHoliday idea with FABTHINGS2do.
Monday 16 July 2012
Breaking up will be hard to do....
If you've lost faith with your bank because you blame it for the financial crisis, or are upset with corporate greed, or have just had enough of their IT problems, you don't really have many alternatives.
The UK's biggest five banks - Barclays, Lloyds, HSBC, RBS and Santander - dominate the marketplace. Excluding Santander, the other four banks together have 85% of the personal current account market.
Labour leader Ed Miliband wants to reshape the banking landscape. He is calling for existing banks to be forced to sell off hundreds of branches, thereby increasing the number of main UK banks by adding at least two new "challenger" banks.
Mr Miliband's view is that more banking competition would lead to more consumer choice and ultimately lower charges.
The UK did once have a much more diverse banking landscape. But wholesale demutualisation of building societies in the 1990s, together with the subsequent 2008 financial crisis, has seen many of the mutuals and the competition that went with them disappear as they were absorbed into bigger companies.
Last month, business secretary Vince Cable described the building societies' demutualisation as "one of the greatest acts of economic vandalism in modern times", leading to commercial banks "abandoning locally based relationship banking in the decade before the recent financial crisis".
Britain now has just 47 building societies, from the biggest - Nationwide and the Yorkshire - to small, local societies that have only a few thousand members. That's a far cry from the 481 that existed in 1970.
To get back to this level of banking variety, observers say actions will need to go a lot further than Mr Miliband has suggested.
The UK's biggest five banks - Barclays, Lloyds, HSBC, RBS and Santander - dominate the marketplace. Excluding Santander, the other four banks together have 85% of the personal current account market.
Labour leader Ed Miliband wants to reshape the banking landscape. He is calling for existing banks to be forced to sell off hundreds of branches, thereby increasing the number of main UK banks by adding at least two new "challenger" banks.
Mr Miliband's view is that more banking competition would lead to more consumer choice and ultimately lower charges.
The UK did once have a much more diverse banking landscape. But wholesale demutualisation of building societies in the 1990s, together with the subsequent 2008 financial crisis, has seen many of the mutuals and the competition that went with them disappear as they were absorbed into bigger companies.
Last month, business secretary Vince Cable described the building societies' demutualisation as "one of the greatest acts of economic vandalism in modern times", leading to commercial banks "abandoning locally based relationship banking in the decade before the recent financial crisis".
Britain now has just 47 building societies, from the biggest - Nationwide and the Yorkshire - to small, local societies that have only a few thousand members. That's a far cry from the 481 that existed in 1970.
To get back to this level of banking variety, observers say actions will need to go a lot further than Mr Miliband has suggested.
Friday 6 July 2012
Britons head overseas to escape the rain
The recent wet weather has been welcomed by travel companies, who have reported a sharp rise in holiday bookings.
Persistent wet weather across Britain has led to a surge in bookings for foreign holidays, according to tour operators.
Last month was the wettest June since records began in 1910, while a month’s worth of rain is expected to fall in parts of Northern England, the Midlands and Wales today.
The downpours have been welcomed by holiday companies, however, and both Thomas Cook and On the Beach, the online travel agent, have reported a rise in bookings.
On the Beach claimed that bookings for trips to European destinations had risen by 20 per cent during the past fortnight, compared with the same period last year.
Thomas Cook also said bookings had increased, with Spain and Greece proving particularly popular.
“We’ve definitely seen a rise in bookings as the weather worsens, with our research showing one in five people are influenced to book a holiday by the disappointing British weather,” said Lydia Dearden from Thomas Cook.
A spokesman for Thomson said it had seen a 20 per cent rise in searches for holidays last month, compared with June 2011. He added that the Balearics, Greece, Tunisia and Morocco were attracting the most interest from British travellers.
ABTA, the travel association, recently reported that up to 13 million Britons would be heading abroad during July and August, with 90 per cent of those heading to traditional Mediterranean destinations.
The eurozone is thought to be finding favour thanks to the strength of the pound against the euro – British holidaymakers can expect to get at least 10 per cent more for their money compared with last summer.
Find your next FABHoliday idea with FABTHINGS2do.
Persistent wet weather across Britain has led to a surge in bookings for foreign holidays, according to tour operators.
Last month was the wettest June since records began in 1910, while a month’s worth of rain is expected to fall in parts of Northern England, the Midlands and Wales today.
The downpours have been welcomed by holiday companies, however, and both Thomas Cook and On the Beach, the online travel agent, have reported a rise in bookings.
On the Beach claimed that bookings for trips to European destinations had risen by 20 per cent during the past fortnight, compared with the same period last year.
Thomas Cook also said bookings had increased, with Spain and Greece proving particularly popular.
“We’ve definitely seen a rise in bookings as the weather worsens, with our research showing one in five people are influenced to book a holiday by the disappointing British weather,” said Lydia Dearden from Thomas Cook.
A spokesman for Thomson said it had seen a 20 per cent rise in searches for holidays last month, compared with June 2011. He added that the Balearics, Greece, Tunisia and Morocco were attracting the most interest from British travellers.
ABTA, the travel association, recently reported that up to 13 million Britons would be heading abroad during July and August, with 90 per cent of those heading to traditional Mediterranean destinations.
The eurozone is thought to be finding favour thanks to the strength of the pound against the euro – British holidaymakers can expect to get at least 10 per cent more for their money compared with last summer.
Find your next FABHoliday idea with FABTHINGS2do.
Friday 22 June 2012
Monastery makes pitch for the 'gap year' market
It might not quite offer the hedonism of Goa or Phuket but a traditional Roman Catholic monastery is making an unexpected move into the gap year market.
Quarr Abbey on the Isle of Wight is advertising its first “monastic internships”, offering young people a taste of life in a Benedictine community.
There will be no all-night beach parties or Himalayan treks to help them “find” themselves – just plenty of prayer and reflection.
The four successful candidates will receive board, lodgings and spiritual guidance in return for at least four hours work a day every day - except Sunday – cooking, growing food in the Abbey gardens, looking after cattle, pigs and bees or binding books.
They will live by the Benedictine traditions, rising before 5am each day to wash from a bowl in their cell before making their way for Vigils at 5.30am – the first of seven services throughout the day.
The Abbey has a long tradition of hospitality to visitors but the two month placement, which is open to young men aged 18 to 25, is the first extended stay of its kind.
“It’s like a gap year experience and laying a spiritual foundation,” Father Luke Bell, who is organising the scheme, told The Catholic Herald.
“It is very much a monastic tradition for guests to stay in a monastery but it’s normally a week or two in the spiritual programme.
“People are actually working in the rule of St Benedict.”
The Abbey traces its origins to the early 12th Century when the Cistercian house of Our Lady and St John was founded.
Left in ruins after Henry VIII’s dissolution of the monasteries it was refounded at the turn of the 20th Century to house a French Benedictine community who were living in exile on the Isle of Wight.
When not at prayer its current inhabitants are known for their range of crafts including one monk who devotes his time to painting treescapes and another who writes devotional books.
The monks also run a tea shop and open their gardens to visitors – of the human variety as well as red squirrels and buzzards.
Find your next FABHoliday idea with FABTHINGS2do.
Quarr Abbey on the Isle of Wight is advertising its first “monastic internships”, offering young people a taste of life in a Benedictine community.
There will be no all-night beach parties or Himalayan treks to help them “find” themselves – just plenty of prayer and reflection.
The four successful candidates will receive board, lodgings and spiritual guidance in return for at least four hours work a day every day - except Sunday – cooking, growing food in the Abbey gardens, looking after cattle, pigs and bees or binding books.
They will live by the Benedictine traditions, rising before 5am each day to wash from a bowl in their cell before making their way for Vigils at 5.30am – the first of seven services throughout the day.
The Abbey has a long tradition of hospitality to visitors but the two month placement, which is open to young men aged 18 to 25, is the first extended stay of its kind.
“It’s like a gap year experience and laying a spiritual foundation,” Father Luke Bell, who is organising the scheme, told The Catholic Herald.
“It is very much a monastic tradition for guests to stay in a monastery but it’s normally a week or two in the spiritual programme.
“People are actually working in the rule of St Benedict.”
The Abbey traces its origins to the early 12th Century when the Cistercian house of Our Lady and St John was founded.
Left in ruins after Henry VIII’s dissolution of the monasteries it was refounded at the turn of the 20th Century to house a French Benedictine community who were living in exile on the Isle of Wight.
When not at prayer its current inhabitants are known for their range of crafts including one monk who devotes his time to painting treescapes and another who writes devotional books.
The monks also run a tea shop and open their gardens to visitors – of the human variety as well as red squirrels and buzzards.
Find your next FABHoliday idea with FABTHINGS2do.
Monday 18 June 2012
Tunisian tourism shows signs of recovery
Figures suggest that holidaymakers are returning to Tunisia as political tensions ease following last year’s “Jasmine Revolution".
Figures released by the Tunisian National Tourist Office indicate that more than 31,000 Britons travelled to the country in May, a 34 per cent increase on the number of British visitors in the same period last year.
The numbers currently stand at about 14 per cent less than they were in May 2010, a record-breaking month in terms for visitors from the UK, with slightly more than 35,000 Britons entering the country.
The news was welcomed by Tunisian tourism officials.
“The UK has proved to be one of our most resilient markets and I’m delighted to see visitors returning to Tunisia in such numbers,” said Wahida Jaiet, director of the country’s tourism office for the UK and Ireland.
“I’m confident that the UK and Irish markets will continue to grow,” she said.
“Now is a great time to visit Tunisia as the country enjoys a new-found freedom and optimism. There is plenty to bring visitors back to Tunisia again and again.”
Mehdi Houas, the former tourism and commerce minister, said that Tunisia’s revenues from tourism had dropped by around 50 per cent in 2011 to about £800m.
There has since been a highly visible marketing campaign launched in Britain to encourage tourists back to the country.
Find your next FABHoliday idea with FABTHINGS2do.
Figures released by the Tunisian National Tourist Office indicate that more than 31,000 Britons travelled to the country in May, a 34 per cent increase on the number of British visitors in the same period last year.
The numbers currently stand at about 14 per cent less than they were in May 2010, a record-breaking month in terms for visitors from the UK, with slightly more than 35,000 Britons entering the country.
The news was welcomed by Tunisian tourism officials.
“The UK has proved to be one of our most resilient markets and I’m delighted to see visitors returning to Tunisia in such numbers,” said Wahida Jaiet, director of the country’s tourism office for the UK and Ireland.
“I’m confident that the UK and Irish markets will continue to grow,” she said.
“Now is a great time to visit Tunisia as the country enjoys a new-found freedom and optimism. There is plenty to bring visitors back to Tunisia again and again.”
Mehdi Houas, the former tourism and commerce minister, said that Tunisia’s revenues from tourism had dropped by around 50 per cent in 2011 to about £800m.
There has since been a highly visible marketing campaign launched in Britain to encourage tourists back to the country.
Find your next FABHoliday idea with FABTHINGS2do.
Wednesday 6 June 2012
FAB Family Days Out
Stuck for something to do with with the family during the school half term?
After a visit to the the Alnwick Castle & Garden we would highly recommend you add this to your list of places to visit.
The Alnwick Garden's charitable activities are managed by The Alnwick Garden Trust - enabling The Garden to become not just a lovely place to visit, but also the inspiration for authentic change.
How many secrets can one garden hold? A visit to The Alnwick Garden is full of surprises - whether it's a specialised tour with one of their gardeners, or a den-building workshop for schools.
And the best bit about this was the FAB offer to all visitors "Pay for a Day, Visit Free For a year" great value when you look at all the exciting events they have coming up over the next few months.
Find your next FABHoliday idea with FABTHINGS2do.
After a visit to the the Alnwick Castle & Garden we would highly recommend you add this to your list of places to visit.
The Alnwick Garden's charitable activities are managed by The Alnwick Garden Trust - enabling The Garden to become not just a lovely place to visit, but also the inspiration for authentic change.
How many secrets can one garden hold? A visit to The Alnwick Garden is full of surprises - whether it's a specialised tour with one of their gardeners, or a den-building workshop for schools.
And the best bit about this was the FAB offer to all visitors "Pay for a Day, Visit Free For a year" great value when you look at all the exciting events they have coming up over the next few months.
Find your next FABHoliday idea with FABTHINGS2do.
Monday 4 June 2012
Brits increasingly going off the beaten track on holiday
An increasing number of travellers are choosing to go off the beaten track into little known or niche territory when taking a package holiday abroad, it has been revealed.
This is according to Tom Hall, UK travel editor of lonelyplanet.com, who said that going to little known festivals and sports events are all the rage when it comes to those forgotten corners of the globe.
He said: "When people are going, they might be aiming for some of the more iconic experiences, maybe it is a one man train or boat ride, maybe it is visiting some off the beaten track but very famous ancient ruins, those kinds of things."
He added that Central Asian destinations were also increasing in popularity amongst British tourists.
His comments follow those made by travel writer and broadcaster Sarah Woods said that European destinations such as Burgundy were also something of a trendy hotspot among Brits.
Find your next FABHoliday idea with FABTHINGS2do.
This is according to Tom Hall, UK travel editor of lonelyplanet.com, who said that going to little known festivals and sports events are all the rage when it comes to those forgotten corners of the globe.
He said: "When people are going, they might be aiming for some of the more iconic experiences, maybe it is a one man train or boat ride, maybe it is visiting some off the beaten track but very famous ancient ruins, those kinds of things."
He added that Central Asian destinations were also increasing in popularity amongst British tourists.
His comments follow those made by travel writer and broadcaster Sarah Woods said that European destinations such as Burgundy were also something of a trendy hotspot among Brits.
Find your next FABHoliday idea with FABTHINGS2do.
Friday 1 June 2012
Virgin Galactic takes another step closer to space tourism.
Virgin Galactic has revealed that it expects to make rocket-powered test flights of its passenger spaceship later this year, bringing space tourism one step closer.
The company - the brainchild of pioneering Sir Richard Branson - said its spaceship builder partner, Scaled Composites, has been granted an experimental permit from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
That means it will be allowed to proceed with rocket-powered test flights.
A post on the company's website said: 'Scaled expects to begin rocket-powered, supersonic flights under the just-issued experimental permit toward the end of the year.'
No timetable has been set for the first launches carrying paying customers, but that is expected to be confirmed after the test program is complete.
More than 500 people, including actor Ashton Kutcher, have signed up with Virgin Galactic for a chance to experience weightlessness during suborbital flights.
Sir Richard and his children Sam and Holly are also set to be among the first commercial passengers on SpaceShipTwo.
Virgin Galactic and the California-based Scaled Composites have been glide-testing their six-passenger vehicle SpaceShipTwo, which is air-launched from a twin-fuselage carrier airplane called WhiteKnightTwo.
Work is under way to integrate the rocket motor into SpaceShipTwo in preparation to test the 'aerodynamic performance of the spacecraft'.
Virgin Galactic said SpaceShipTwo and WhiteKnightTwo have made 'significant progress' in their flight test program, with a total of almost 100 completed.
'This important milestone enables our team to progress to the rocket-powered phase of test flight, bringing us a major step closer to bringing our customers to space,' said George Whitesides, president and CEO of Virgin Galactic.
Doug Shane, president of Scaled, added: 'The spaceship program is making steady progress, and we are all looking forward to lighting the vehicle’s rocket engine in flight for the first time.'
According to Virgin Galactic, the FAA’s Office of Commercial Space Transportation issues permits 'after it has determined that the vehicle operator has taken the appropriate steps to protect the public during testing.'
The starting price for space flights is £130,000 with refundable deposits starting from £13,000.
Virgin Galactic will be based at Spaceport America, a purpose-built spaceline terminal designed by architect Sir Norman Foster, based in New Mexico.
Find your next FABHoliday idea with FABTHINGS2do.
The company - the brainchild of pioneering Sir Richard Branson - said its spaceship builder partner, Scaled Composites, has been granted an experimental permit from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
That means it will be allowed to proceed with rocket-powered test flights.
A post on the company's website said: 'Scaled expects to begin rocket-powered, supersonic flights under the just-issued experimental permit toward the end of the year.'
No timetable has been set for the first launches carrying paying customers, but that is expected to be confirmed after the test program is complete.
More than 500 people, including actor Ashton Kutcher, have signed up with Virgin Galactic for a chance to experience weightlessness during suborbital flights.
Sir Richard and his children Sam and Holly are also set to be among the first commercial passengers on SpaceShipTwo.
Virgin Galactic and the California-based Scaled Composites have been glide-testing their six-passenger vehicle SpaceShipTwo, which is air-launched from a twin-fuselage carrier airplane called WhiteKnightTwo.
Work is under way to integrate the rocket motor into SpaceShipTwo in preparation to test the 'aerodynamic performance of the spacecraft'.
Virgin Galactic said SpaceShipTwo and WhiteKnightTwo have made 'significant progress' in their flight test program, with a total of almost 100 completed.
'This important milestone enables our team to progress to the rocket-powered phase of test flight, bringing us a major step closer to bringing our customers to space,' said George Whitesides, president and CEO of Virgin Galactic.
Doug Shane, president of Scaled, added: 'The spaceship program is making steady progress, and we are all looking forward to lighting the vehicle’s rocket engine in flight for the first time.'
According to Virgin Galactic, the FAA’s Office of Commercial Space Transportation issues permits 'after it has determined that the vehicle operator has taken the appropriate steps to protect the public during testing.'
The starting price for space flights is £130,000 with refundable deposits starting from £13,000.
Virgin Galactic will be based at Spaceport America, a purpose-built spaceline terminal designed by architect Sir Norman Foster, based in New Mexico.
Find your next FABHoliday idea with FABTHINGS2do.
Tuesday 22 May 2012
Where are the best royal celebrations?
The best royal celebrations for the Queen's big Diamond anniversary.
The biggest royal party of them all, the Diamond Jubilee, is almost upon us. But what to do to celebrate the Queen's grand hurrah? From blazing beacons on the Mull of Kintyre to Bond theatrics in London, Here are a selection of the best celebrations taking place across the UK.
SCOTLAND
Booming fun: Edinburgh
The 105th Regiment Royal Artillery is sounding out the gun salute at Edinburgh Castle.
Details: Listen out on June 2 at noon, www.edinburghcastle.gov.uk.
Treasure trove: Palace of Holyrood House.
More than 100 works of art from the Queen's palaces are on display, including masterpieces by Michelangelo and Canaletto and Russia's famous Faberge eggs.
Details: Tickets cost £6 for adults, £3 for children, www.royalcollection.org.uk.
Time for tea: The Robert Burns Birthplace Museum, Alloway, Ayr
Hark back to Coronation year at this Fifties party with a King and Queen costume competition on June 4. There is also afternoon tea with flower arranging and cookery demonstrations.
Details: Entrance to the Museum is £8 for adults, £6 for children, £20 family ticket. Afternoon tea is £18.50; 0844 493 2601, www.visitscotland.com.
NORTHERN IRELAND
Jubilee jamboree: Belfast
A host of events is being held across the city on Jubilee weekend, including a Coronation Carnival in City Hall on June 4 from 11am to 5pm and a continental market outside the Hall from June 1 to 4.
Details: 028 9027 0495, www.belfastcity.gov.uk.
Drum roll: Belfast
Head to the waterfront for a Diamond Jubilee concert on June 22. There will be celebratory music by the band, bugles, pipes and drums of The Royal Irish Regiment (TA) and The Bangor Ladies' Choir. All proceeds go to the Army Benevolent Fund.
Details: Tickets cost £16, groups of 10-plus £14.40 each; 028 9033 4455, www.waterfront.co.uk.
Jazz it up: Bangor
There's full on family fun in and around Bangor's Town Hall on the June 3 and 4 with a Cartoon Wonderland, vintage fair and a Big Lunch. In the evenings of June 3 and 4 and there's music from the Jacqui Dankworth Band, the Wigan Youth Jazz Orchestra and the Ulster Youth Jazz Orchestra.
Details: Tickets are free, but you have to book for the evening events; 028 9127 0069, www.northdowntourism.com.
WALES
In concert: Cardiff
The Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama has a number of royal-related special events, from a performance by the Prince of Wales's harpist Hannah Stone, on June 8, to the Diamond Jubilee Concert, featuring favourites from royal occasions such as the Coronation, with international star soloists. Expect the roof to be lifted by the likes of Let The Bright Seraphim and Zadok The Priest.
Details: Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama; June 2, 8pm; £7 adult, £5 concession; 029 2039 1391, www.visitcardiff.com.
ENGLAND
High notes: York Minster
A Royal medley, including a Diamond Jubilee concert on June 16 in York Minister with a performance of William Walton's march Crown Imperial.
Details: Tickets £20 for adults, £18 concessions; 0844 9390015, www.boxoffice.yorkminster.org.
Duel in the crown: Belsay Hall, Northumberland
Plantaganet knights will cross lances for the King (Edward III) at Belsay Hall and Castle over the Jubilee weekend. Bring your best eye and arm - there's a chance to try out archery (for an extra fee).
Details: Tickets are £8.50 for adults, £6 for children; www.english-heritage.org.uk.
Fifties fair: Leeds Castle, Kent
Rock 'n' roll chic is the keynote for this stylish event at Leeds Castle on June 2 and 3. There will be retro cars, cream teas and a screening of the original Coronation newsreel on the evening of June 3. There is also a showing of the film Grease, starring Olivia Newton John and John Travolta.
Details: Tickets for the fireworks and open-air cinema are £20 for adults, £15 children. Tickets for daytime events are £19.75 for adults, £12.50 children (these tickets last all year); 01622 880008, www.leeds-castle.com.
Sandy celebrations: Littlehampton, West Sussex
Be on Britain's longest beach for the lighting of a beacon brazier on June 4. A lantern procession will start at 9.30pm from Mewsbrook Park with the mayor doing the honours.
Details: www.diamondjubileebeacons.co.uk.
Find your next FABHoliday idea with FABTHINGS2do.
The biggest royal party of them all, the Diamond Jubilee, is almost upon us. But what to do to celebrate the Queen's grand hurrah? From blazing beacons on the Mull of Kintyre to Bond theatrics in London, Here are a selection of the best celebrations taking place across the UK.
SCOTLAND
Booming fun: Edinburgh
The 105th Regiment Royal Artillery is sounding out the gun salute at Edinburgh Castle.
Details: Listen out on June 2 at noon, www.edinburghcastle.gov.uk.
Treasure trove: Palace of Holyrood House.
More than 100 works of art from the Queen's palaces are on display, including masterpieces by Michelangelo and Canaletto and Russia's famous Faberge eggs.
Details: Tickets cost £6 for adults, £3 for children, www.royalcollection.org.uk.
Time for tea: The Robert Burns Birthplace Museum, Alloway, Ayr
Hark back to Coronation year at this Fifties party with a King and Queen costume competition on June 4. There is also afternoon tea with flower arranging and cookery demonstrations.
Details: Entrance to the Museum is £8 for adults, £6 for children, £20 family ticket. Afternoon tea is £18.50; 0844 493 2601, www.visitscotland.com.
NORTHERN IRELAND
Jubilee jamboree: Belfast
A host of events is being held across the city on Jubilee weekend, including a Coronation Carnival in City Hall on June 4 from 11am to 5pm and a continental market outside the Hall from June 1 to 4.
Details: 028 9027 0495, www.belfastcity.gov.uk.
Drum roll: Belfast
Head to the waterfront for a Diamond Jubilee concert on June 22. There will be celebratory music by the band, bugles, pipes and drums of The Royal Irish Regiment (TA) and The Bangor Ladies' Choir. All proceeds go to the Army Benevolent Fund.
Details: Tickets cost £16, groups of 10-plus £14.40 each; 028 9033 4455, www.waterfront.co.uk.
Jazz it up: Bangor
There's full on family fun in and around Bangor's Town Hall on the June 3 and 4 with a Cartoon Wonderland, vintage fair and a Big Lunch. In the evenings of June 3 and 4 and there's music from the Jacqui Dankworth Band, the Wigan Youth Jazz Orchestra and the Ulster Youth Jazz Orchestra.
Details: Tickets are free, but you have to book for the evening events; 028 9127 0069, www.northdowntourism.com.
WALES
In concert: Cardiff
The Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama has a number of royal-related special events, from a performance by the Prince of Wales's harpist Hannah Stone, on June 8, to the Diamond Jubilee Concert, featuring favourites from royal occasions such as the Coronation, with international star soloists. Expect the roof to be lifted by the likes of Let The Bright Seraphim and Zadok The Priest.
Details: Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama; June 2, 8pm; £7 adult, £5 concession; 029 2039 1391, www.visitcardiff.com.
ENGLAND
High notes: York Minster
A Royal medley, including a Diamond Jubilee concert on June 16 in York Minister with a performance of William Walton's march Crown Imperial.
Details: Tickets £20 for adults, £18 concessions; 0844 9390015, www.boxoffice.yorkminster.org.
Duel in the crown: Belsay Hall, Northumberland
Plantaganet knights will cross lances for the King (Edward III) at Belsay Hall and Castle over the Jubilee weekend. Bring your best eye and arm - there's a chance to try out archery (for an extra fee).
Details: Tickets are £8.50 for adults, £6 for children; www.english-heritage.org.uk.
Fifties fair: Leeds Castle, Kent
Rock 'n' roll chic is the keynote for this stylish event at Leeds Castle on June 2 and 3. There will be retro cars, cream teas and a screening of the original Coronation newsreel on the evening of June 3. There is also a showing of the film Grease, starring Olivia Newton John and John Travolta.
Details: Tickets for the fireworks and open-air cinema are £20 for adults, £15 children. Tickets for daytime events are £19.75 for adults, £12.50 children (these tickets last all year); 01622 880008, www.leeds-castle.com.
Sandy celebrations: Littlehampton, West Sussex
Be on Britain's longest beach for the lighting of a beacon brazier on June 4. A lantern procession will start at 9.30pm from Mewsbrook Park with the mayor doing the honours.
Details: www.diamondjubileebeacons.co.uk.
Find your next FABHoliday idea with FABTHINGS2do.
Thursday 17 May 2012
EU roaming charges set to fall
Britons face cheaper EU roaming charges from July.
Millions of Britons holidaying in Europe this summer will have far cheaper mobile phone bills after the European Union gave the green light to strict price caps on “rip-off” mobile data roaming charges.
The move, which confirmed plans laid out earlier this year, will stop consumers being hit by surprise “bill shock” when they return from trips overseas.
The caps, which will come into force on July 1, will mean that people who travel to Europe with smartphones will have cheaper access to emails, interactive maps and social networking sites such as Twitter and Facebook. The EU said that the caps will save the typical family taking a holiday in Europe “at least” €200 (£160).
A typical businessman traveling in the EU will save around €1,000 (£800) a year, the EU said. There are already price caps in place in Europe for mobile phone calls and text messages.
In total, Europeans will spend around €5 billion this year on roaming services, a saving of around €15 billion compared to what the same services would have cost under 2007 prices, the EU said.
From July, phone companies will only be allowed to charge 70 cents (56 pence) per megabyte of data, plus VAT. As recently as 2009 the price was six times as much.
By 2014, the maximum cost of downloading data will be cut further to 20 cents per megabyte.
Neelie Kroes, Vice-President at the European Commission, said that by putting price caps on data, the EC had “created a roaming market for the smartphone generation”.
“More than that, we have ended to rip-offs familiar to anyone who has used a mobile phone while traveling abroad,” said Mr Kroes.
He said that from 2014 consumers will be able to choose a “separate roaming provider” when they travel.
“If you can find a better offer compared to your standard contract you’ll be able to do it in a few simple swipes, just like when you choose a wi-fi network,” he said.
Monique Goyens, director general of The European Consumer Organisation, said: “This welcome news is the latest step down from sky high roaming costs. As of July 1, the EU is once again bringing down the cost of calls and texts when abroad.”
However Ms Goyens added: “The issue of transparency remains a concern. A recent EU-wide survey found 74 per cent of consumers are hesitant to use their phone abroad to call, check mail, download photos or use voice services for fear of cost. This latest battle for fairer pricing can only help reduce that number.”
The EU also announced new price caps for mobile calls and texts, which will also come into effect on July 1.
From July calls will cost a maximum of 29 cents a minute to make and 8 cents a minute to receive, plus VAT. Texts will dost 9 cents each to send. They will fall again in 2013 and 2014.
Currently calls cost 35 cents a minute to make and 11 cents a minute to receive. Texts also cost 11 cents.
The EU said that the prices are a maximum and that competition between operators could drive them even lower.
Find your next FABHoliday idea with FABTHINGS2do.
Millions of Britons holidaying in Europe this summer will have far cheaper mobile phone bills after the European Union gave the green light to strict price caps on “rip-off” mobile data roaming charges.
The move, which confirmed plans laid out earlier this year, will stop consumers being hit by surprise “bill shock” when they return from trips overseas.
The caps, which will come into force on July 1, will mean that people who travel to Europe with smartphones will have cheaper access to emails, interactive maps and social networking sites such as Twitter and Facebook. The EU said that the caps will save the typical family taking a holiday in Europe “at least” €200 (£160).
A typical businessman traveling in the EU will save around €1,000 (£800) a year, the EU said. There are already price caps in place in Europe for mobile phone calls and text messages.
In total, Europeans will spend around €5 billion this year on roaming services, a saving of around €15 billion compared to what the same services would have cost under 2007 prices, the EU said.
From July, phone companies will only be allowed to charge 70 cents (56 pence) per megabyte of data, plus VAT. As recently as 2009 the price was six times as much.
By 2014, the maximum cost of downloading data will be cut further to 20 cents per megabyte.
Neelie Kroes, Vice-President at the European Commission, said that by putting price caps on data, the EC had “created a roaming market for the smartphone generation”.
“More than that, we have ended to rip-offs familiar to anyone who has used a mobile phone while traveling abroad,” said Mr Kroes.
He said that from 2014 consumers will be able to choose a “separate roaming provider” when they travel.
“If you can find a better offer compared to your standard contract you’ll be able to do it in a few simple swipes, just like when you choose a wi-fi network,” he said.
Monique Goyens, director general of The European Consumer Organisation, said: “This welcome news is the latest step down from sky high roaming costs. As of July 1, the EU is once again bringing down the cost of calls and texts when abroad.”
However Ms Goyens added: “The issue of transparency remains a concern. A recent EU-wide survey found 74 per cent of consumers are hesitant to use their phone abroad to call, check mail, download photos or use voice services for fear of cost. This latest battle for fairer pricing can only help reduce that number.”
The EU also announced new price caps for mobile calls and texts, which will also come into effect on July 1.
From July calls will cost a maximum of 29 cents a minute to make and 8 cents a minute to receive, plus VAT. Texts will dost 9 cents each to send. They will fall again in 2013 and 2014.
Currently calls cost 35 cents a minute to make and 11 cents a minute to receive. Texts also cost 11 cents.
The EU said that the prices are a maximum and that competition between operators could drive them even lower.
Find your next FABHoliday idea with FABTHINGS2do.
Wednesday 16 May 2012
Britons enjoying up to 25% off summer holidays.
Britons enjoying up to 25% off summer holidays in the sun compared to last year thanks to strong pound.
Someone travelling to Rio will get 24.5% more this year whilst Tourists heading to Spanish or French resorts can expect 10.5% more spending power due to Euro crisis.
The Euro crisis has delivered a bonus for British holidaymakers who can expect 10.5 per cent more spending power on the Spanish islands or French resorts.
For every £500 converted to euros, a family will get an extra £47.41 this year compared to the summer of 2011.
That means more ice creams for the children, a glass of wine or two more with meals or entry to an attraction or theme park.
For those travelling further afield, the relative strength of sterling against other currencies will deliver an even bigger increase in spending power.
For example, someone travelling to Rio in Brazil will get 24.5 per cent more for their money this year, or around an extra £86 for every £500 that is converted to the local currency, the real.
Similarly, the pound will buy 15.7 per cent more Mexican pesos, delivering extra spending power to the many Britons who holiday in Cancun or the Riviera Maya. Visitors to South Africa will get 16.7 per cent more for their money this year.
While holidays in the Euro zone will be relatively cheaper in terms of daily spending, the strength of the pound against other European currencies has been even more marked.
For example, the pound is now some 23 per cent stronger against the Polish zloty than the summer of 2011, while it is 20.8 per cent stronger against the Hungarian forint.
Money will also go further this year in Turkey and Croatia.
The figures, which have been collated by Post Office Travel Money, will encourage many families to make their summer holiday choices based on where they can best value.
At the same time, many may decide to buy their summer spending money now to take advantage of the good rates. The Post Office research shows the pound has made gains against 24 of 30 leading holiday currencies over the past year.
Compared to a year ago, the pound is down by 0.7 per cent against the dollar, 1 per cent against the Barbados dollar, 1.1 per cent against the Vietnamese dong, 1.8 per cent against the UAE dirham and 4.1 per cent against the Kenyan shilling.
Post Office Head of Travel Money, Andrew Brown, said: ‘Although the increasing value of sterling against the euro has dominated the headlines, there are very few places where the pound is not packing a stronger punch this year.
'Our advice is for people to keep a close eye on exchange rates for all the destinations they are considering so they can judge where they will get the best return on their money.'
He added: ‘There are signs that the power of the pound is making people increasingly savvy both about their choice of destination and their spending habits.’
Find your next FABHoliday idea with FABTHINGS2do.
Someone travelling to Rio will get 24.5% more this year whilst Tourists heading to Spanish or French resorts can expect 10.5% more spending power due to Euro crisis.
The Euro crisis has delivered a bonus for British holidaymakers who can expect 10.5 per cent more spending power on the Spanish islands or French resorts.
For every £500 converted to euros, a family will get an extra £47.41 this year compared to the summer of 2011.
That means more ice creams for the children, a glass of wine or two more with meals or entry to an attraction or theme park.
For those travelling further afield, the relative strength of sterling against other currencies will deliver an even bigger increase in spending power.
For example, someone travelling to Rio in Brazil will get 24.5 per cent more for their money this year, or around an extra £86 for every £500 that is converted to the local currency, the real.
Similarly, the pound will buy 15.7 per cent more Mexican pesos, delivering extra spending power to the many Britons who holiday in Cancun or the Riviera Maya. Visitors to South Africa will get 16.7 per cent more for their money this year.
While holidays in the Euro zone will be relatively cheaper in terms of daily spending, the strength of the pound against other European currencies has been even more marked.
For example, the pound is now some 23 per cent stronger against the Polish zloty than the summer of 2011, while it is 20.8 per cent stronger against the Hungarian forint.
Money will also go further this year in Turkey and Croatia.
The figures, which have been collated by Post Office Travel Money, will encourage many families to make their summer holiday choices based on where they can best value.
At the same time, many may decide to buy their summer spending money now to take advantage of the good rates. The Post Office research shows the pound has made gains against 24 of 30 leading holiday currencies over the past year.
Compared to a year ago, the pound is down by 0.7 per cent against the dollar, 1 per cent against the Barbados dollar, 1.1 per cent against the Vietnamese dong, 1.8 per cent against the UAE dirham and 4.1 per cent against the Kenyan shilling.
Post Office Head of Travel Money, Andrew Brown, said: ‘Although the increasing value of sterling against the euro has dominated the headlines, there are very few places where the pound is not packing a stronger punch this year.
'Our advice is for people to keep a close eye on exchange rates for all the destinations they are considering so they can judge where they will get the best return on their money.'
He added: ‘There are signs that the power of the pound is making people increasingly savvy both about their choice of destination and their spending habits.’
Find your next FABHoliday idea with FABTHINGS2do.
Tuesday 15 May 2012
Bucket List Surveys
The desire to get married is sliding down British women’s to-do list but having a family remains a high priority, according to a research.
The poll,by Bing, Microsoft’s search engine, examined what Brits really want to be doing in various areas of their lives, revealed the top ten most popular items on the UK’s bucket list. Starting a family ranked second on the list with getting married coming in at 4th, for women.
“Getting married would have been at the top of the list for women over a decade or two ago, but now with our hard-won independence and more equal footing in society women are just as ready to travel the world as men, according to sociologist Jenni Trent Hughes.
Men, on the other hand, are far more interested in driving an F1 car than settling down.
“However both sexes have put having a family high on the list, another sign of the times. And both are finally realising the importance of striking a good work-balance, which of course will be necessary in order to live a fulfilling life,” said Jenni.
The women’s UK top ten life to-do list
1. Travelling the world
2. Having a family
3. Living in another country
4. Getting married
5. Learning a new skill
6. Owning a shop
7. Striking the work life balance
8. Owning a bar or restaurant
9. Swimming with dolphins
10. Recording an album
The men's UK top ten life to-do list
1. Travelling the world
2. Living in another country
3. Having a family
4. Learning a new skill
5. Driving an F1 car
6. Recording an album
7. Striking the work life balance
8. Owning a bar or restaurant
9. Getting married
10. Acting in a film
The poll,by Bing, Microsoft’s search engine, examined what Brits really want to be doing in various areas of their lives, revealed the top ten most popular items on the UK’s bucket list. Starting a family ranked second on the list with getting married coming in at 4th, for women.
“Getting married would have been at the top of the list for women over a decade or two ago, but now with our hard-won independence and more equal footing in society women are just as ready to travel the world as men, according to sociologist Jenni Trent Hughes.
Men, on the other hand, are far more interested in driving an F1 car than settling down.
“However both sexes have put having a family high on the list, another sign of the times. And both are finally realising the importance of striking a good work-balance, which of course will be necessary in order to live a fulfilling life,” said Jenni.
The women’s UK top ten life to-do list
1. Travelling the world
2. Having a family
3. Living in another country
4. Getting married
5. Learning a new skill
6. Owning a shop
7. Striking the work life balance
8. Owning a bar or restaurant
9. Swimming with dolphins
10. Recording an album
The men's UK top ten life to-do list
1. Travelling the world
2. Living in another country
3. Having a family
4. Learning a new skill
5. Driving an F1 car
6. Recording an album
7. Striking the work life balance
8. Owning a bar or restaurant
9. Getting married
10. Acting in a film
Thursday 10 May 2012
‘World’s oldest backpacker’ hits the road again
A man described as the “world’s oldest backpacker” is poised to embark on his latest globe-trotting trip – at the age of 95.
Keith Wright, a pensioner from Queensland in Australia, will fly out to Europe on May 28, his eighth backpacking trip since he started travelling solo at the age of 85.
He has planned a two-month itinerary including Madrid, San Sebastian, Paris, Munich, Vienna and a trip to Britain to see the racing at Royal Ascot.
In the past decade, Mr Wright has visited many of the countries in Western and Eastern Europe, starting his backpacking a few years after his wife Barbara passed away.
His first trip was a bus journey through Turkey. Since then, he has travelled the world on a strict budget, saving up money throughout the year for flights and hostel accommodation.
“I have had itchy feet all my life and had always wanted to go to Gallipoli on Anzac Day, so I decided to sell our house and put the extra money towards a holiday,” said Mr Wright, who is a veteran of the Second World War.
“I have seen things that most tourists haven’t seen, because I walk the back streets and take trains or buses to nearby towns for the day.
“Most people I meet are surprised when I tell them my age and amazed that I have come all the way from Australia.”
Find your next FABHoliday idea with FABTHINGS2do.
Keith Wright, a pensioner from Queensland in Australia, will fly out to Europe on May 28, his eighth backpacking trip since he started travelling solo at the age of 85.
He has planned a two-month itinerary including Madrid, San Sebastian, Paris, Munich, Vienna and a trip to Britain to see the racing at Royal Ascot.
In the past decade, Mr Wright has visited many of the countries in Western and Eastern Europe, starting his backpacking a few years after his wife Barbara passed away.
His first trip was a bus journey through Turkey. Since then, he has travelled the world on a strict budget, saving up money throughout the year for flights and hostel accommodation.
“I have had itchy feet all my life and had always wanted to go to Gallipoli on Anzac Day, so I decided to sell our house and put the extra money towards a holiday,” said Mr Wright, who is a veteran of the Second World War.
“I have seen things that most tourists haven’t seen, because I walk the back streets and take trains or buses to nearby towns for the day.
“Most people I meet are surprised when I tell them my age and amazed that I have come all the way from Australia.”
Find your next FABHoliday idea with FABTHINGS2do.
Wednesday 9 May 2012
Is it the perfect time to buy your holiday money?
The exchange rate against the euro and the dollar is good at present.
The pound's strength against the euro and dollar has left some currency experts suggesting that you stock up on holiday money now. But will it strengthen further and what is the cheapest way to benefit when the pound is strong?
The crisis in the eurozone has pushed the euro's value down against the pound in recent months, meaning that those who are taking their holidays in mainland Europe could end up getting more for their money than they did last year.
Customers who bought £100 of euros now could get €122 for their money, compared with €111 last July. Those going to the US could get $160 for £100, compared with $142 in May 2010.
A spokesperson for currencies.co.uk, said that the sterling exchange rate "is currently the best it has been for years against all other major currencies". However, he warned that the Government may take action to reduce the strength of the pound because of the effect that it is having on exports.
"With that in mind we would advise those looking to exchange sterling to be wary of the recent pound strength and look to exchange as soon as possible. It may also be worth considering a forward contract to fix the exchange rate at its current level."However, another spokesperson at currency broker HIFX, said that they believed sterling was in a good position and could become even stronger. "Buying euros must be tempting right now, but I think the UK economy is in much better shape than the eurozone so there may be more of a rally to come," he said.
Those who do wish to take advantage of the current rates, whether because they live abroad or are planning a holiday in the months to come, can do so in a variety of ways. Preloaded currency cards are convenient for those who want to buy hundreds of pounds worth of euros for a holiday. However, it is worth noting that money does not have the same protection in the event of a firm going bust as it would in an ordinary bank account. This is because you do not have the same protection under the Financial Services Compensation Scheme.
These cards allow you to buy currency at today's prices and hold it on a card until you wish to spend it. While it is there it does not earn interest. However, you effectively "lock in" today's exchange rate, and these cards can be a cost-effective way of spending abroad.
Two of the best-known prepaid cards are FairFX and Caxton FX, which come in dollar or euro formats. These come with slightly different fees and charges and tend to be only slightly more expensive to use abroad than the very best credit and debit cards. If you don't have a specialist credit or debit card for spending overseas they are likely to be a good option as well as allowing you to buy your currency when sterling is strong.
Those who wish to buy larger amounts of currency could use a money broker. These specialists can allow you to buy larger amounts of money at an advantageous rate. Or you could lock yourself into a more expensive "forward contract". This would give you the price available now for up to two years. This may be worth doing if you are about to buy a property abroad, for example. A specialist broker is often cheaper than a bank.
Find your next FABHoliday idea with FABTHINGS2do.
The pound's strength against the euro and dollar has left some currency experts suggesting that you stock up on holiday money now. But will it strengthen further and what is the cheapest way to benefit when the pound is strong?
The crisis in the eurozone has pushed the euro's value down against the pound in recent months, meaning that those who are taking their holidays in mainland Europe could end up getting more for their money than they did last year.
Customers who bought £100 of euros now could get €122 for their money, compared with €111 last July. Those going to the US could get $160 for £100, compared with $142 in May 2010.
A spokesperson for currencies.co.uk, said that the sterling exchange rate "is currently the best it has been for years against all other major currencies". However, he warned that the Government may take action to reduce the strength of the pound because of the effect that it is having on exports.
"With that in mind we would advise those looking to exchange sterling to be wary of the recent pound strength and look to exchange as soon as possible. It may also be worth considering a forward contract to fix the exchange rate at its current level."However, another spokesperson at currency broker HIFX, said that they believed sterling was in a good position and could become even stronger. "Buying euros must be tempting right now, but I think the UK economy is in much better shape than the eurozone so there may be more of a rally to come," he said.
Those who do wish to take advantage of the current rates, whether because they live abroad or are planning a holiday in the months to come, can do so in a variety of ways. Preloaded currency cards are convenient for those who want to buy hundreds of pounds worth of euros for a holiday. However, it is worth noting that money does not have the same protection in the event of a firm going bust as it would in an ordinary bank account. This is because you do not have the same protection under the Financial Services Compensation Scheme.
These cards allow you to buy currency at today's prices and hold it on a card until you wish to spend it. While it is there it does not earn interest. However, you effectively "lock in" today's exchange rate, and these cards can be a cost-effective way of spending abroad.
Two of the best-known prepaid cards are FairFX and Caxton FX, which come in dollar or euro formats. These come with slightly different fees and charges and tend to be only slightly more expensive to use abroad than the very best credit and debit cards. If you don't have a specialist credit or debit card for spending overseas they are likely to be a good option as well as allowing you to buy your currency when sterling is strong.
Those who wish to buy larger amounts of currency could use a money broker. These specialists can allow you to buy larger amounts of money at an advantageous rate. Or you could lock yourself into a more expensive "forward contract". This would give you the price available now for up to two years. This may be worth doing if you are about to buy a property abroad, for example. A specialist broker is often cheaper than a bank.
Find your next FABHoliday idea with FABTHINGS2do.
Tuesday 1 May 2012
Iceland offers world's first tour inside a volcano
Visitors to Iceland are being given the opportunity to be among the first tourists to enter the magma chamber of a volcano.
The interior of Thrihnukagigur, which has been dormant for around 4,000 years, will be opened to ordinary travellers for six weeks this summer, from June 15 to July 31.
The volcano is a 30-minute drive from Reykjavik, the Icelandic capital. Visitors must then embark on a short 40-minute hike across a lava field to reach the volcano, before descending 120 metres to the bottom of the crater in an open cable lift. They will be able to spend around an hour inside the volcano in the company of a team of expert guides.
The tour costs ISK 37,000 (£180) per person, a portion of which will go towards further research into the country’s volcanoes. Visitors must be aged 12 or over, and are advised to bring walking boots, water, sensible outdoor clothing and a camera.
The chamber was first accessed by scientists in 2011, in what was described at the time as an historic development.
Black Tomato, the luxury adventure travel specialist, has launched an “Ultimate Volcano Adventure” package that includes a private, evening trip inside the Thrihnukagigur volcano, a tour of the Thingvellir National Park, and a trip to the famous Blue Lagoon geothermal spa. www.blacktomato.com for more infomation.
For more information on the tour of Thrihnukagigur, see www.insidethevolcano.com.
Find your next FABHoliday idea with FABTHINGS2do.
The interior of Thrihnukagigur, which has been dormant for around 4,000 years, will be opened to ordinary travellers for six weeks this summer, from June 15 to July 31.
The volcano is a 30-minute drive from Reykjavik, the Icelandic capital. Visitors must then embark on a short 40-minute hike across a lava field to reach the volcano, before descending 120 metres to the bottom of the crater in an open cable lift. They will be able to spend around an hour inside the volcano in the company of a team of expert guides.
The tour costs ISK 37,000 (£180) per person, a portion of which will go towards further research into the country’s volcanoes. Visitors must be aged 12 or over, and are advised to bring walking boots, water, sensible outdoor clothing and a camera.
The chamber was first accessed by scientists in 2011, in what was described at the time as an historic development.
Black Tomato, the luxury adventure travel specialist, has launched an “Ultimate Volcano Adventure” package that includes a private, evening trip inside the Thrihnukagigur volcano, a tour of the Thingvellir National Park, and a trip to the famous Blue Lagoon geothermal spa. www.blacktomato.com for more infomation.
For more information on the tour of Thrihnukagigur, see www.insidethevolcano.com.
Find your next FABHoliday idea with FABTHINGS2do.
Monday 30 April 2012
Where to snowboard this May?
Snow addicts, don't be too depressed by the golfers and gardeners - the 2011-12 ski season continues right through May (and beyond) if you know where to look!
Canada
At Whistler, Blackcomb Mountain’s operations have been extended to May 28, 2012.
“We are enjoying another fantastic winter season here in Whistler so spring will have to wait just a little bit longer,” says Doug MacFarlane, Whistler Blackcomb mountain operations manager. “We’ve got some of the best spring conditions we’ve ever had. Extending the ski season on Blackcomb and giving the people what they want was an easy decision.”
Marmot Basin and Lake Louise in Alberta are also open the first week of May while Sunshine near Banff, which has reported record snowfall this year, is open another fortnight to nearly the end of May.
Finland
Ruka has the longest ski season in Finland and probably the longest season of any non-glacier ski area in the world. It expects to be open to June again this winter, almost all lifts and runs are open as we end April with temperatures hovering around zero. It usually keeps one or two main runs open through May and June. The resort's 2010-2011 season ran from 18.10.2010-12.6.2011 with a total of 239 skiing days.
France
There’s no longer year-round skiing in France, but Tignes, host of the European X Games last month which once opened 365 days, still has by far the country’s longest season and is scheduled to open to May 8th, along with Europe’s highest resort, Val Thorens. After that there are no ski areas scheduled to be open in France until summer skiing begins in late June. You could ski indoors on the world’s longest indoor run at Amneville up in the north of the country though – it’s 600m long.
Italy
With most of Italy’s remaining ski areas closing in the first few days of May and summer ski destinations like Val Senales and Cervinia not opening until at least June, the country’s remaining May skiing is offered by the Presena Glacier above Passo Tonale where normally several challenging runs (intermediate level or better) are available.
Japan
Niseko had another good snow year, perhaps topping the world snowfall chart this winter with nearly 22m (66 feet) of snow reported. The snow is still lying thick and deep but it closes May 7th. After that one of the best bets may be to head to Gassan ("Moon Mountain" in Japanese), a small ski areas with a glacier in Tohoku Region's Yamagata Prefecture which has one of the world's oddest ski seasons - being open from May to July each year.
The Netherlands
The world’s largest indoor ski slope by snow surface area and the one the FIS have chosen for nearly a decade now to stage World Cup snowboarding events each autumn in SnowWorld Landgraaf in the Netherlands – also hosts to numerous international teams for summer training. Along with snowsports this May the new 2.7 million Euro ‘Outdoor Park Snow World Landgraaf’ is due to open with a host of outdoor adventure attractions to enjoy.
Of course, there's also plenty of indoor slopes and dryslopes in the UK too.
Norway
The summer ski season kicks off in May in Norway with Folgefonn normally the first to open early in the month followed by Stryn (24 May) and Galdhøpiggen. Each centre offers skiing, boarding and summer camps on the country’s highest and biggest glaciers.
Sweden
Riksgränsen in the Arctic Circle in Northern Sweden has long been known as one of the world’s best destinations for late spring skiing, with the snow still fresh and less affected by the freeze-thaw spring skiing conditions at this time of year at resorts at more southerly latitudes. It also offers the novelty of 24 hour daylight from later in the month with skiing and boarding in the small hours under the midnight sun. 2012 snow conditions are reported to be excellent.
Switzerland
Engelberg has had the deepest snowbase in Europe all winter and at the time of writing it was still lying 6m (20 feet) deep up on the resort’s Titlis glacier, where the season continues to 28 May this year.
Other Swiss options include Zermatt – open year round, and Glacier 3000 above Les Diablerets which plans to stay open to the end of May. The Diavolezza glacier in the Engadin Valley near St Moritz is a further choice.
USA
Mammoth Mountain in California has long been one of the best bets for spring skiing through to June or July in the USA and despite an unusual snowfall-short winter, frequent heavy snow storms through March and April have given the resort a good base and it has so far announced it will be open at least to the USS Memorial Day holiday at the very end of May.
Elsewhere with a 100-inch (2.5m) base, Snowbird in Utah is still open for skiing and boarding, and says it will, "continue running lifts as long as the snowpack and other conditions permit." Crystal Mountain in Washington also plans to stay open beyond May and Timberline in Oregon is a third choice.
The Southern Hemisphere
The ski season in the southern hemisphere is unlikely to start until early June unless there is unseasonable early snow. Typically Afri-ski in Lesotho (www.afri-ski.com) is one of the first to open, scheduled for June 7 this year, along with resorts in New Zealand.
Elsewhere in Europe
The Scottish ski areas are keen to prove they can deliver snow sports after being forced to close through March due to record warm weather. Three were open for the final weekends of April and with the weather still cool, may open in to May.
Canada
At Whistler, Blackcomb Mountain’s operations have been extended to May 28, 2012.
“We are enjoying another fantastic winter season here in Whistler so spring will have to wait just a little bit longer,” says Doug MacFarlane, Whistler Blackcomb mountain operations manager. “We’ve got some of the best spring conditions we’ve ever had. Extending the ski season on Blackcomb and giving the people what they want was an easy decision.”
Marmot Basin and Lake Louise in Alberta are also open the first week of May while Sunshine near Banff, which has reported record snowfall this year, is open another fortnight to nearly the end of May.
Finland
Ruka has the longest ski season in Finland and probably the longest season of any non-glacier ski area in the world. It expects to be open to June again this winter, almost all lifts and runs are open as we end April with temperatures hovering around zero. It usually keeps one or two main runs open through May and June. The resort's 2010-2011 season ran from 18.10.2010-12.6.2011 with a total of 239 skiing days.
France
There’s no longer year-round skiing in France, but Tignes, host of the European X Games last month which once opened 365 days, still has by far the country’s longest season and is scheduled to open to May 8th, along with Europe’s highest resort, Val Thorens. After that there are no ski areas scheduled to be open in France until summer skiing begins in late June. You could ski indoors on the world’s longest indoor run at Amneville up in the north of the country though – it’s 600m long.
Italy
With most of Italy’s remaining ski areas closing in the first few days of May and summer ski destinations like Val Senales and Cervinia not opening until at least June, the country’s remaining May skiing is offered by the Presena Glacier above Passo Tonale where normally several challenging runs (intermediate level or better) are available.
Japan
Niseko had another good snow year, perhaps topping the world snowfall chart this winter with nearly 22m (66 feet) of snow reported. The snow is still lying thick and deep but it closes May 7th. After that one of the best bets may be to head to Gassan ("Moon Mountain" in Japanese), a small ski areas with a glacier in Tohoku Region's Yamagata Prefecture which has one of the world's oddest ski seasons - being open from May to July each year.
The Netherlands
The world’s largest indoor ski slope by snow surface area and the one the FIS have chosen for nearly a decade now to stage World Cup snowboarding events each autumn in SnowWorld Landgraaf in the Netherlands – also hosts to numerous international teams for summer training. Along with snowsports this May the new 2.7 million Euro ‘Outdoor Park Snow World Landgraaf’ is due to open with a host of outdoor adventure attractions to enjoy.
Of course, there's also plenty of indoor slopes and dryslopes in the UK too.
Norway
The summer ski season kicks off in May in Norway with Folgefonn normally the first to open early in the month followed by Stryn (24 May) and Galdhøpiggen. Each centre offers skiing, boarding and summer camps on the country’s highest and biggest glaciers.
Sweden
Riksgränsen in the Arctic Circle in Northern Sweden has long been known as one of the world’s best destinations for late spring skiing, with the snow still fresh and less affected by the freeze-thaw spring skiing conditions at this time of year at resorts at more southerly latitudes. It also offers the novelty of 24 hour daylight from later in the month with skiing and boarding in the small hours under the midnight sun. 2012 snow conditions are reported to be excellent.
Switzerland
Engelberg has had the deepest snowbase in Europe all winter and at the time of writing it was still lying 6m (20 feet) deep up on the resort’s Titlis glacier, where the season continues to 28 May this year.
Other Swiss options include Zermatt – open year round, and Glacier 3000 above Les Diablerets which plans to stay open to the end of May. The Diavolezza glacier in the Engadin Valley near St Moritz is a further choice.
USA
Mammoth Mountain in California has long been one of the best bets for spring skiing through to June or July in the USA and despite an unusual snowfall-short winter, frequent heavy snow storms through March and April have given the resort a good base and it has so far announced it will be open at least to the USS Memorial Day holiday at the very end of May.
Elsewhere with a 100-inch (2.5m) base, Snowbird in Utah is still open for skiing and boarding, and says it will, "continue running lifts as long as the snowpack and other conditions permit." Crystal Mountain in Washington also plans to stay open beyond May and Timberline in Oregon is a third choice.
The Southern Hemisphere
The ski season in the southern hemisphere is unlikely to start until early June unless there is unseasonable early snow. Typically Afri-ski in Lesotho (www.afri-ski.com) is one of the first to open, scheduled for June 7 this year, along with resorts in New Zealand.
Elsewhere in Europe
The Scottish ski areas are keen to prove they can deliver snow sports after being forced to close through March due to record warm weather. Three were open for the final weekends of April and with the weather still cool, may open in to May.
Friday 27 April 2012
UK workers - Fewer holidays and greater stress
As it is revealed that Britain has re-entered recession, the impact of the economic downturn on employees is coming to light.
In a recent survey carried out by Nuffield Health, 1,500 adults were questioned in relation to workplace satisfaction. The results show a worrying rise in stress levels of employees, who are taking fewer holidays and working longer hours due to the effect of the recession. Over half of the people questioned admitted to increases in stress levels in recent years and to their personal lives being affected as a result of workplace stress.
While those in Yorkshire were shown to have the best work-life balance, people working in London came out at the bottom. It was revealed that 44% of the Londoners surveyed had not used up all of their holiday entitlement. Reasons for not taking holiday allowances were varied: some claimed to be too busy, others could not afford a holiday, while others feared that taking a break would affect their job security. It was also revealed that almost a third of all those surveyed worked up to seven hours a week on unpaid overtime.
With the current rate of unemployment hovering at 8.3%, just 0.1% short of the 12-year high, growing numbers of people are desperate simply to have a job. As a result, those who are working are increasingly willing to tolerate circumstances that are far from ideal, simply to remain in employment.
The results of the survey have also highlighted the recession’s potentially damaging effects to the overall personal and physical health of the nation. A quarter of the people interviewed admitted to using alcohol to help themselves cope with increased stress, whilst 29% revealed that they argued more with those close to them since the beginning of the downturn.
In a recent survey carried out by Nuffield Health, 1,500 adults were questioned in relation to workplace satisfaction. The results show a worrying rise in stress levels of employees, who are taking fewer holidays and working longer hours due to the effect of the recession. Over half of the people questioned admitted to increases in stress levels in recent years and to their personal lives being affected as a result of workplace stress.
While those in Yorkshire were shown to have the best work-life balance, people working in London came out at the bottom. It was revealed that 44% of the Londoners surveyed had not used up all of their holiday entitlement. Reasons for not taking holiday allowances were varied: some claimed to be too busy, others could not afford a holiday, while others feared that taking a break would affect their job security. It was also revealed that almost a third of all those surveyed worked up to seven hours a week on unpaid overtime.
With the current rate of unemployment hovering at 8.3%, just 0.1% short of the 12-year high, growing numbers of people are desperate simply to have a job. As a result, those who are working are increasingly willing to tolerate circumstances that are far from ideal, simply to remain in employment.
The results of the survey have also highlighted the recession’s potentially damaging effects to the overall personal and physical health of the nation. A quarter of the people interviewed admitted to using alcohol to help themselves cope with increased stress, whilst 29% revealed that they argued more with those close to them since the beginning of the downturn.
Monday 23 April 2012
Keep Your Home Safe This May Bank Holiday
With the Bank Holiday nearly here, those heading off on a much-deserved weekend break should start to think about securing their home. By following these few simple steps, you'll be able to relax whilst you're away - safe in the knowledge that your home will be just as you left it, when you return:
-- Use timer switches to turn your lights on and off at different times
during the day. Having a well-lit home at night will give the impression
that someone is home.
-- Leaving your curtains closed for a prolonged period of time is a tell-
tale sign that you're away. If possible, ask a trusted neighbour to pop
around morning and evening to open and close your curtains, as you would
do yourself.
-- Take care when using social network sites such as Facebook or Twitter.
It's much better to share photos and chat about your holiday once you
return, than to broadcast the fact that you are going away and leaving
an empty house.
-- Make sure all your windows and doors are locked and that your domestic
intruder alarm system is set before you leave. In the run-up to your
holiday, ensure that your alarm is working properly and that any
intruder alarm monitoring systems or maintenance agreements are
activated. If your circumstances have been changed and your key holder
alert system is out of date, it might be wise to upgrade to a fully
monitored system that will alert the police, if necessary, whilst you're
away.
A senior spokesman for Dyno, who specialise in burglar alarm systems, said: "Holidays are a time for relaxing and unwinding without the nagging worry of how secure your home is. By preparing in advance, and checking that your alarm system is working properly and maintained, you can rest easy and enjoy your getaway."
Wednesday 28 March 2012
Supermarkets launch a chocolate egg price war.
THE Easter bunny will be hopping with joy this year as supermarkets launch a chocolate egg price war.
The scramble to offer the best bargains means some eggs are cheaper, gram for gram, than their standard bar versions.
For example, you can get a 313g Wispa egg for £2.75. That is the same amount of chocolate as eight standard 39g Wispa bars, priced 59p each — which would cost a total of £4.72.
POUNDWORLD have assorted 50g and 55g branded children's eggs, including Winnie The Pooh, Barbie and Cars, for £1 or four for £3. Their 150g chocolate bunny is also good value at £1.
TESCO will slash the price of a huge range of £6 eggs to £2.75, saving £3.25. Included are a 215g Simpsons, 307g Roses, 313g Wispa, 312g Maltesers & Friends and several eggs with a mug, including Yorkie, Munchies and Double Decker.
Their own-brand luxury 300g Chokablok eggs are not on offer but are reasonably priced at £5.
ALDI eggs are also good value, including the £1.99 200g Choceur bunny and £2.99 350g Choceur Flame egg with a mix of milk and white chocolates.
MARKS & SPENCER are offering three of their 55p 23g Bubbly Bunnies for £1, saving 65p.
THORNTONS are offering three for two on their standard £3.50 153g milk, dark and white eggs.
POUNDLAND have the new £1.20 96g bags of Galaxy Caramel mini eggs for £1, saving 20p, and the £1.85 101g boxes of Cadbury Buttons for £1, saving 85p.
A 50g Barbie egg and watch are 99p, saving £1.50, at 99P STORES. A 55g Toy Story egg is 99p, saving £1.50.
MORRISONS have £2 brand-name eggs for 98p, including Cadbury Flake, Smarties, Cadbury Buttons, Crunchie, Rolo, Cadbury Creme Egg, Cars, Cadbury Mini Eggs, Hello Kitty and KitKat.
WAITROSE are offering two for £6, saving £1, on their £3.50 150g Belgian children's eggs, which come with jelly drops, jelly beans or dolly mix. Their £1.50 30g Hen Eggs are two for £2.50. And they have two £5.59 Green & Black's 180g organic eggs for £8, saving £3.18.
LIDL are offering two for £2, saving 38p, on their 150g Favorina creme and nougat-filled mini eggs. Other good-value eggs include their £1.99 200g Confiserie Firenze decorated bunny.
MACE have three for £1, saving 52p, on 40g Cadbury Creme Eggs and Dairy Milk Caramel eggs and two for £1, saving 24p, on 29g MaltEaster bunnies.
WILKINSON are offering two 150g Thorntons eggs, including the Thorntons milk chocolate football, for £4, saving £1.30, and two large Thorntons eggs, including the 274g Classic, for £6, saving £2.
The CO-OP have 285g Duc d'O Belgian assorted praline eggs at £4.75, saving £5.25. From tomorrow there's two for £8, saving up to £4.50, on many branded eggs including the 324g Galaxy Minstrels, 372g Mars & Friends, 307g Roses, 343g Cadbury Dairy Milk and 277g Quality Street.
Find out more about these FABOffers with The Sun's Captain Crunch.
The scramble to offer the best bargains means some eggs are cheaper, gram for gram, than their standard bar versions.
For example, you can get a 313g Wispa egg for £2.75. That is the same amount of chocolate as eight standard 39g Wispa bars, priced 59p each — which would cost a total of £4.72.
POUNDWORLD have assorted 50g and 55g branded children's eggs, including Winnie The Pooh, Barbie and Cars, for £1 or four for £3. Their 150g chocolate bunny is also good value at £1.
TESCO will slash the price of a huge range of £6 eggs to £2.75, saving £3.25. Included are a 215g Simpsons, 307g Roses, 313g Wispa, 312g Maltesers & Friends and several eggs with a mug, including Yorkie, Munchies and Double Decker.
Their own-brand luxury 300g Chokablok eggs are not on offer but are reasonably priced at £5.
ALDI eggs are also good value, including the £1.99 200g Choceur bunny and £2.99 350g Choceur Flame egg with a mix of milk and white chocolates.
MARKS & SPENCER are offering three of their 55p 23g Bubbly Bunnies for £1, saving 65p.
THORNTONS are offering three for two on their standard £3.50 153g milk, dark and white eggs.
POUNDLAND have the new £1.20 96g bags of Galaxy Caramel mini eggs for £1, saving 20p, and the £1.85 101g boxes of Cadbury Buttons for £1, saving 85p.
A 50g Barbie egg and watch are 99p, saving £1.50, at 99P STORES. A 55g Toy Story egg is 99p, saving £1.50.
MORRISONS have £2 brand-name eggs for 98p, including Cadbury Flake, Smarties, Cadbury Buttons, Crunchie, Rolo, Cadbury Creme Egg, Cars, Cadbury Mini Eggs, Hello Kitty and KitKat.
WAITROSE are offering two for £6, saving £1, on their £3.50 150g Belgian children's eggs, which come with jelly drops, jelly beans or dolly mix. Their £1.50 30g Hen Eggs are two for £2.50. And they have two £5.59 Green & Black's 180g organic eggs for £8, saving £3.18.
LIDL are offering two for £2, saving 38p, on their 150g Favorina creme and nougat-filled mini eggs. Other good-value eggs include their £1.99 200g Confiserie Firenze decorated bunny.
MACE have three for £1, saving 52p, on 40g Cadbury Creme Eggs and Dairy Milk Caramel eggs and two for £1, saving 24p, on 29g MaltEaster bunnies.
WILKINSON are offering two 150g Thorntons eggs, including the Thorntons milk chocolate football, for £4, saving £1.30, and two large Thorntons eggs, including the 274g Classic, for £6, saving £2.
The CO-OP have 285g Duc d'O Belgian assorted praline eggs at £4.75, saving £5.25. From tomorrow there's two for £8, saving up to £4.50, on many branded eggs including the 324g Galaxy Minstrels, 372g Mars & Friends, 307g Roses, 343g Cadbury Dairy Milk and 277g Quality Street.
Find out more about these FABOffers with The Sun's Captain Crunch.
Tuesday 27 March 2012
Easter Special Offers on Experience events.
Trackdays.co.uk have announced they are to be launch their special offers for Easter this week with some driving experiences prices being slashed by as much as 40% as well as a buy one get one free offer on Single Seater driving experiences and new experience at Silverstone Race Circuit.
The track day and driving experience website which is owned and run by Digital Sports Group limited are expecting a busy Easter due to the recent good weather.
Dan Jones, Operations Manager for the Trackdays website said ‘we had a record number of calls at the weekend for this time of Year and we can put that mainly down to the sunshine. We have thousands of customers with vouchers who have been waiting for some good weather before they book their slot and with the Easter holiday looming we expect it to get busier. The Silverstone driving experiences have been especially popular with the Formula 1 season underway and both British drivers doing well’.
The Easter promotions which go live on the site this week include a Junior Supercar offer where kids from 12 – 16 years old can take a Supercar such as a Ferrari or Lamborghini. There is also a brand new product at the World famous Silverstone Race Track where customers can drive both the Ferrari 360 and the Aston Martin V8 Vantage and a multi-venue offer for Single Seater driving on a ‘buy one get one free’ promotion.
Looking for the latest FABUKBreaks offers on a wide range of UK Days out or UK Holidays let FABTHINGS2do help you.
The track day and driving experience website which is owned and run by Digital Sports Group limited are expecting a busy Easter due to the recent good weather.
Dan Jones, Operations Manager for the Trackdays website said ‘we had a record number of calls at the weekend for this time of Year and we can put that mainly down to the sunshine. We have thousands of customers with vouchers who have been waiting for some good weather before they book their slot and with the Easter holiday looming we expect it to get busier. The Silverstone driving experiences have been especially popular with the Formula 1 season underway and both British drivers doing well’.
The Easter promotions which go live on the site this week include a Junior Supercar offer where kids from 12 – 16 years old can take a Supercar such as a Ferrari or Lamborghini. There is also a brand new product at the World famous Silverstone Race Track where customers can drive both the Ferrari 360 and the Aston Martin V8 Vantage and a multi-venue offer for Single Seater driving on a ‘buy one get one free’ promotion.
Looking for the latest FABUKBreaks offers on a wide range of UK Days out or UK Holidays let FABTHINGS2do help you.
Monday 26 March 2012
Everest Olympic medal pledge set to be honoured
In 1922 a group of explorers made the first serious attempt to climb Mount Everest and, despite their lack of success, their exploits were lauded all over the world - even resulting in Olympic gold medals for them all.
Now, with the London 2012 Olympics fast approaching, British adventurer Kenton Cool has promised to try to fulfil a pledge made 88 years ago to take one of the medals to the summit of Everest.
The 1922 British Everest Expedition team - led by Brig Gen Charles Bruce and Lt Col Edward Strutt - came within 500m of the summit, but failed three times to reach the top.
Despite not reaching their goal, and recording the first fatalities trying to climb the mountain, the expedition was a popular sensation.
The public could not get enough of the men who had come within striking distance of the summit.
That attention climaxed at the 1924 Winter Olympics in France when 13 members of the team - 12 British and one Australian - were honoured with medals for mountaineering. It was the first time such medals had ever been awarded.
At a ceremony in Chamonix, International Olympic Committee chairman Pierre de Coubertin, the father of the modern Olympics, spoke of the team's "absolute heroism on behalf of all of the nations of the world".
In France to collect the medals was the expedition's deputy leader, Lt Col Edward Strutt, a highly decorated officer in the Royal Scots.
As he was handed the medals, Lt Col Strutt pledged to place one on the summit of Everest.
In his memoirs Mr Coubertin recalled the moment: "There was also the moving occasion when, at the foot of Mont Blanc, the medal for mountaineering was awarded to one of the leaders of the famous Mount Everest expedition, a courageous Englishman who, defeated but not discouraged, swore to leave it next time at the top of the highest summit in the Himalayas."
But this was a promise that was never kept.....In the years that followed, other teams tried and failed to reach the top of the world. During World War II Everest was left in peace.
By the time Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay reached the peak in 1953 the Olympic promise was all but forgotten.....Until now
Kenton Cool, who is also an Olympic torchbearer, plans to fulfil the pledge made 88 years ago.
"A friend of mine was doing some research into London 2012 when he came across the story of the pledge," said Cool, who has already climbed Everest nine times.
"When he told me about it I said straightaway: 'I have to do that'. And with the 2012 Olympics in London, I knew when I had to do it."
"Then it was a question of finding someone with a medal who would let me take such a precious family heirloom to the top."
Mr Cool is now preparing to leave for Nepal and, after a few weeks' acclimatisation, hopes to make a bid for the summit, with Dr Wakefield's medal in a special case, early in May.
If he makes it he'll not only have climbed Everest 10 times, breaking his own UK record, but he will have kept a very special promise.
Now, with the London 2012 Olympics fast approaching, British adventurer Kenton Cool has promised to try to fulfil a pledge made 88 years ago to take one of the medals to the summit of Everest.
The 1922 British Everest Expedition team - led by Brig Gen Charles Bruce and Lt Col Edward Strutt - came within 500m of the summit, but failed three times to reach the top.
Despite not reaching their goal, and recording the first fatalities trying to climb the mountain, the expedition was a popular sensation.
The public could not get enough of the men who had come within striking distance of the summit.
That attention climaxed at the 1924 Winter Olympics in France when 13 members of the team - 12 British and one Australian - were honoured with medals for mountaineering. It was the first time such medals had ever been awarded.
At a ceremony in Chamonix, International Olympic Committee chairman Pierre de Coubertin, the father of the modern Olympics, spoke of the team's "absolute heroism on behalf of all of the nations of the world".
In France to collect the medals was the expedition's deputy leader, Lt Col Edward Strutt, a highly decorated officer in the Royal Scots.
As he was handed the medals, Lt Col Strutt pledged to place one on the summit of Everest.
In his memoirs Mr Coubertin recalled the moment: "There was also the moving occasion when, at the foot of Mont Blanc, the medal for mountaineering was awarded to one of the leaders of the famous Mount Everest expedition, a courageous Englishman who, defeated but not discouraged, swore to leave it next time at the top of the highest summit in the Himalayas."
But this was a promise that was never kept.....In the years that followed, other teams tried and failed to reach the top of the world. During World War II Everest was left in peace.
By the time Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay reached the peak in 1953 the Olympic promise was all but forgotten.....Until now
Kenton Cool, who is also an Olympic torchbearer, plans to fulfil the pledge made 88 years ago.
"A friend of mine was doing some research into London 2012 when he came across the story of the pledge," said Cool, who has already climbed Everest nine times.
"When he told me about it I said straightaway: 'I have to do that'. And with the 2012 Olympics in London, I knew when I had to do it."
"Then it was a question of finding someone with a medal who would let me take such a precious family heirloom to the top."
Mr Cool is now preparing to leave for Nepal and, after a few weeks' acclimatisation, hopes to make a bid for the summit, with Dr Wakefield's medal in a special case, early in May.
If he makes it he'll not only have climbed Everest 10 times, breaking his own UK record, but he will have kept a very special promise.
Friday 23 March 2012
What are the best low-rate credit cards
Low-rate credit cards provide an alternative to the more popular purchase or balance transfer cards, especially for those people who don’t want to constantly chase promotional rates.
Many of these cards don’t charge a balance transfer fee so, on larger balances, it may be cheaper to opt for this type of card compared with an interest-free card, especially if you are unable to repay the balance before the promotional offer comes to an end.
Here are five of the best.
Sainsbury’s Low Rate Credit Card
This card from Sainsbury’s offers the lowest standard credit card rate in the market at just 6.9pc. Only available to Nectar cardholders, although a Nectar account can be easily opened at no cost, but loyalty points will not be earned on any spending on the card.
Kevin Mountford, head of banking at Moneysupermarket.com, said: “The card doesn’t come with any promotional balance transfer or purchase offers, but this card could be a cheaper borrowing option than a personal loan. It is only available to those with a good or excellent credit rating.”
Barclaycard Platinum Simplicity Card
Barclaycard’s Platinum Simplicity Card has one of the lowest interest rates currently available at 7.9pc on both balance transfers and purchases. There is no handling fee on balance transfers. Cardholders can manage their accounts online, and make contactless payments using the card on purchases up to £15. You must be 21 to apply for the card, with at least four years of managing credit commitments well, always making payments on time. You must also have a regular income of over £20,000 a year and not already have a credit card with Barclaycard.
Capital One Click Card
This card is designed specifically for shopping online, has a low annual percentage rate of 9.94pc on purchases and no fees to transfer a balance. Capital One are currently offering a £10 bonus for every account opened before 31 March.
“The main advantage of this card is that it gives you access to exclusive discounts when you use it to shop online,” said Mr Mountford.
Current offers include 20pc off anything on the Ted Baker site, plus free delivery, 25pc off travel at Travelpack.com and 30pc off on the Zavvi entertainment site. The card promises enhanced security for those nervous about handing over their details online. To qualify for the card you must be a UK resident, have a minimum income of £20,000 and be aged at least 21. You may be refused if you have applied for a Capital One card in the last six months.”
Lloyds TSB Advance Card
This card from Lloyds charges no interest on purchases for the first six months, and after that charges a low 11.95pc variable APR, lower than many rates on other interest-free cards. The card also offers 4.9pc interest on balance transfers for 12 months with a 3pc handling fee when you move your debts over. “It is probably best just to use the card for purchases, as there are other deals offering much more competitive rates on balance transfers,” said Mr Mountford.
The Co-operative Bank Fixed Rate Credit Card
The Co-operative Bank offers a rate of 9.9pc APR fixed for 5 years, with the rate reverting to 12.9pc, still lower than many other cards on the market. This card provides peace of mind that the rate won’t rise, ideal for anyone looking to fix their repayments over this period.
Many of these cards don’t charge a balance transfer fee so, on larger balances, it may be cheaper to opt for this type of card compared with an interest-free card, especially if you are unable to repay the balance before the promotional offer comes to an end.
Here are five of the best.
Sainsbury’s Low Rate Credit Card
This card from Sainsbury’s offers the lowest standard credit card rate in the market at just 6.9pc. Only available to Nectar cardholders, although a Nectar account can be easily opened at no cost, but loyalty points will not be earned on any spending on the card.
Kevin Mountford, head of banking at Moneysupermarket.com, said: “The card doesn’t come with any promotional balance transfer or purchase offers, but this card could be a cheaper borrowing option than a personal loan. It is only available to those with a good or excellent credit rating.”
Barclaycard Platinum Simplicity Card
Barclaycard’s Platinum Simplicity Card has one of the lowest interest rates currently available at 7.9pc on both balance transfers and purchases. There is no handling fee on balance transfers. Cardholders can manage their accounts online, and make contactless payments using the card on purchases up to £15. You must be 21 to apply for the card, with at least four years of managing credit commitments well, always making payments on time. You must also have a regular income of over £20,000 a year and not already have a credit card with Barclaycard.
Capital One Click Card
This card is designed specifically for shopping online, has a low annual percentage rate of 9.94pc on purchases and no fees to transfer a balance. Capital One are currently offering a £10 bonus for every account opened before 31 March.
“The main advantage of this card is that it gives you access to exclusive discounts when you use it to shop online,” said Mr Mountford.
Current offers include 20pc off anything on the Ted Baker site, plus free delivery, 25pc off travel at Travelpack.com and 30pc off on the Zavvi entertainment site. The card promises enhanced security for those nervous about handing over their details online. To qualify for the card you must be a UK resident, have a minimum income of £20,000 and be aged at least 21. You may be refused if you have applied for a Capital One card in the last six months.”
Lloyds TSB Advance Card
This card from Lloyds charges no interest on purchases for the first six months, and after that charges a low 11.95pc variable APR, lower than many rates on other interest-free cards. The card also offers 4.9pc interest on balance transfers for 12 months with a 3pc handling fee when you move your debts over. “It is probably best just to use the card for purchases, as there are other deals offering much more competitive rates on balance transfers,” said Mr Mountford.
The Co-operative Bank Fixed Rate Credit Card
The Co-operative Bank offers a rate of 9.9pc APR fixed for 5 years, with the rate reverting to 12.9pc, still lower than many other cards on the market. This card provides peace of mind that the rate won’t rise, ideal for anyone looking to fix their repayments over this period.
Wednesday 21 March 2012
Rail Europe Launches Promotion
Rail Europe has launched a promotion which offers travellers a line-up of more than 10 special deals.
The promotions feature dedicated city passes, including the London Pass, Paris Pass or Berlin Pass, which provide an ideal complement for travellers wanting to explore Europe's most vibrant capital cities.
Developed in cooperation with European Railways, the promotions are designed to make Europe more affordable as an holiday destination. On sale until 15 April 2012, these special deals are available for a limited time only, with a travel period that ends on par with Europe’s summer season. Rail Europe’s special “Birthday Promotions” include:
Rail Passes
- Swiss Pass "2-for-1 promotion" : Buy one pass, get one free (Travellers must travel together at all times, valid for sale until the 30 of May 2012)
- France Rail Pass: 20% discount
- Eurail Sweden Pass: One day free travel
- BritRail Passes: One day free travel
- Paris Pass: 10% discount
- London Pass: 10% discount
- Berlin Pass: 10% discount
Train Tickets
- Eurostar: 40€ in Standard Class and 98€ in Standard Premier between London and Paris or Brussels (Valid for sale until the 31 of March 2012)
- France-Italy TGV: 40€ in 2nd Class and 50€ in 1st Class for Paris-Milan and Paris-Torino
- Thalys: Lead-in fares in 1st Class, starting from 58€ (Paris-Brussels) or 78€ (Paris-Amsterdam, Valid for sale until the 31 of March 2012)
- TGV Lyria: Lead-in fares starting from 33€ in 2nd Class (Paris-Lausanne) or 66€ in 1st Class (Paris-Geneva)
All these offers represent savings of up to 60% off normal fares. Tickets are non-exchangeable and non-refundable. Terms and conditions apply.
"With such a large promotional assortment, Rail Europe is giving non-Europeans travellers even more reasons to discover Europe first-hand,” said Pierre-Stéphane Austi, CEO of Rail Europe. "These fantastic deals are also easy to advertise for our trade partners, providing a good opportunity to generate additional business before the high season.”
In 2011, Rail Europe recorded a remarkable performance in Greater China, with ticket sales increasing by 65%, in excess of 350,000 tickets sold.
Trains are widely regarded as the best way to discover Europe, offering comfortable, safe and efficient journeys from city centre to city centre. With high speed, night or scenic trains to choose between, travellers have the opportunity to enjoy their journeys at their own pace and make the most of their stay in Europe.
The promotions feature dedicated city passes, including the London Pass, Paris Pass or Berlin Pass, which provide an ideal complement for travellers wanting to explore Europe's most vibrant capital cities.
Developed in cooperation with European Railways, the promotions are designed to make Europe more affordable as an holiday destination. On sale until 15 April 2012, these special deals are available for a limited time only, with a travel period that ends on par with Europe’s summer season. Rail Europe’s special “Birthday Promotions” include:
Rail Passes
- Swiss Pass "2-for-1 promotion" : Buy one pass, get one free (Travellers must travel together at all times, valid for sale until the 30 of May 2012)
- France Rail Pass: 20% discount
- Eurail Sweden Pass: One day free travel
- BritRail Passes: One day free travel
- Paris Pass: 10% discount
- London Pass: 10% discount
- Berlin Pass: 10% discount
Train Tickets
- Eurostar: 40€ in Standard Class and 98€ in Standard Premier between London and Paris or Brussels (Valid for sale until the 31 of March 2012)
- France-Italy TGV: 40€ in 2nd Class and 50€ in 1st Class for Paris-Milan and Paris-Torino
- Thalys: Lead-in fares in 1st Class, starting from 58€ (Paris-Brussels) or 78€ (Paris-Amsterdam, Valid for sale until the 31 of March 2012)
- TGV Lyria: Lead-in fares starting from 33€ in 2nd Class (Paris-Lausanne) or 66€ in 1st Class (Paris-Geneva)
All these offers represent savings of up to 60% off normal fares. Tickets are non-exchangeable and non-refundable. Terms and conditions apply.
"With such a large promotional assortment, Rail Europe is giving non-Europeans travellers even more reasons to discover Europe first-hand,” said Pierre-Stéphane Austi, CEO of Rail Europe. "These fantastic deals are also easy to advertise for our trade partners, providing a good opportunity to generate additional business before the high season.”
In 2011, Rail Europe recorded a remarkable performance in Greater China, with ticket sales increasing by 65%, in excess of 350,000 tickets sold.
Trains are widely regarded as the best way to discover Europe, offering comfortable, safe and efficient journeys from city centre to city centre. With high speed, night or scenic trains to choose between, travellers have the opportunity to enjoy their journeys at their own pace and make the most of their stay in Europe.
Tuesday 20 March 2012
Keeping your little chicks entertained over the Easter holidays
To help you from cracking under the pressure of keeping your little chicks entertained over the Easter holidays, Travelodge is offering 40,000 cheap hotel rooms between £19 and £29 across the UK.
Why not plan ahead and immerse the family in all things chocolaty with an egg-stra special short break! To book a room just go to www.travelodge.co.uk room stays must take place between 31st March and 15th April 2012.
Travelodge have sourced a selection of 12 great family days out:
- 8 chocolate themed events
- 4 Easter themed events - if you chocolate isn't you're thing.
So why not turn a daytrip into an action packed, fun break and explore the local area. To help the pennies stretch further Travelodge is also offering discounts to top attractions for bookings made between 8th March and 11th April 2012 at Travelodge. Every booking made between this time will be able to download a discount voucher for one of 150 attractions throughout the UK including; Theme Parks, Zoo's, Museums and Historic Places of Interest.
With Travelodge you only pay for the room and not for the number of people staying per room. A family room caters for two adults and two children or three adults - so for a family of four, it works out at just £4.75 per person- cheaper than a portion of fish and chips! By booking a GBP 19 Travelodge room, you will have plenty of change left to spoil yourself. A Travelodge family room has a luxury king size bed, sofa bed, en-suite facilities, flat screen TV with 18 free digital channels, free tea / coffee making facilities and WIFI. (You only pay for the room and not for number of people staying per room).
Travelodge hotels that have a Bar Cafe offer an 'eat as much as you like' breakfast buffet for £7.65 per guest and for each paying adult - two children under the age of 16 eat for free. You can make a 20% saving on breakfast by ordering online and you can order a two course evening online for just £9.95 per person too.
All dishes on their children's menu are £3.95, meals include macaroni cheese, cheeseburger and chips and Spaghetti meatballs - 10p from each sale of this dish will be donated to Travelodge's appointed charity KidsOut, helping bring fun & happiness to disadvantaged children in the UK.
Listed below are the best events happening across the UK (according to Travelodge):
Easter egg hunt and Chocolate Workshop at Kew Gardens
Get the whole family involved and join the annual Easter egg hunt at Kew Gardens. Kids can search for the friendly characters of Kew Gardens - Buzzie Bee, Wriggler and Snap, Trap and Venus - who are hidden around the Gardens. Collect three tokens to receive a Green and Black's chocolate treat from the Easter bunnies! Alternatively, visit the drop-in chocolate workshops where families can learn to make objects from chocolate.
Location: Kew Gardens, London, TW9 3PZ
Dates: Easter Egg hunt: Easter day (4 April), 9.30 - 12.30 (or until the eggs run out!)
Chocolate Workshop: Sat 9 April to Mon 25 April & Fri 29 April to Mon 2 May, 10.30am, 11.30am, 12.30pm, 1.30pm & 2.30pm
Prices: Free*
Nearest Travelodge: London Kew Bridge Travelodge, though we have many more hotels in London.
The Great Peter Rabbit East Egg Hunt, Cumbria.
Take part in one of the UK's biggest Easter Egg hunts. Get your hands on one of the 100 hand crafted Peter Rabbit eggs that will be hidden across Cumbria. This hunt gives you the chance to get out into the beautiful Lake District countryside and enjoy the thrill of the hunt against other families and children.
Dates: Thursday 5th April 2012
Times: Starts at 10am
Prices: Free*
Nearest Travelodge: Kendal Travelodge. Prices start from £19**.
Waddesdon Manor Cadbury Easter Trail
The National Trust and Cadbury are teaming up for lots of chocolate fun and an Easter trail at Waddesdon Manor. Enjoy a family day out in the beautiful grounds, with children's explorer trials, an aviary, and beautiful gardens to explore. Why not make a day of it and enjoy the most of the stunning setting.
Location: Waddesdon Manor, Waddesdon, Buckinghamshire, HP18 0JH
Dates: Wednesday 4 April - Easter Monday 9 April, from 10am
Prices: £2.50* per trail. Normal admission charges apply, Adults from £6.50, Children from £3.50, children under 5 go free, families from £16.50.
Nearest Travelodge: Thame Travelodge.
The Giant Easter Egg Hunt
Experience the fun of the biggest Easter Egg hunt in Dorset. The wonderful surroundings of the subtropical gardens at Abbotsbury, with face painting and many more fun activities will suit all the family. Plus, there are thousands of Cadbury's cream eggs to be found!
Location: Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens, Bullers Way, Abbotsbury, Nr Weymouth, Dorset, DT3 4LA
Dates: 06/04/2012 - 09/04/2012
Prices: Adults form £10.50*, children from £7.50*
Nearest Travelodge: Ilminster Travelodge
Lauriston Castle Easter Egg Hunt
Enjoy a day of fun Easter activities in the beautiful setting of Lauriston Castle. You can hunt for clues to find yourself some tasty treats then enjoy some Easter stories, an egg and spoon race, and finish the day by making your own framed Easter collage.
Location: Lauriston Castle, 2a Cramond Road South, Edinburgh EH4 5QD
Dates: Saturday 7th April, 10am - 12.30pm
Prices: £6 per adult / child*
Nearest Travelodge: Edinburgh Learmonth Travelodge.
The Great Easter Egg Hunt 2012
Enjoy a family day out at this popular community event at Cranleigh Showground where there are plenty of chocolate surprises to be found. This is the perfect day out for the kids and parents too - get there early as this event becomes even more popular every year.
Location: Cranleigh Showhround, Surrey, GU6 7DW
Dates: Good Friday, 6th April 2011 at 10:30am
Prices: Free entry and parking*
Nearest Travelodge: Dorkin Travelodge
The Big Easter Bunny Hunt
Join the Big Easter Bunny Hunt in the beautiful surroundings of Waterperry Gardens, home to 8 acres of beautifully landscaped ornamental gardens, plant centre and garden shop, gift barn, museum and teashop. It is your challenge to find bunnies with a difference hidden around the ornamental gardens. Find 8 out of 10 and claim your special Easter prize from Miss H's tea shop.
Location: Waterperry Gardens,Nr. Wheatley, Oxfordshire, England. OX33 1JZ
Dates: 31st March to 15th April
Prices: It costs £2 per child and children must be accompanied by an adult for whom the normal garden entrance fee applies.
Nearest Travelodge: Oxford Wheatley Travelodge
Easter Egg Eggstravagaza at Cadbury World
Cadbury World has an egg-cellent line-up of family-friendly events including circus performances with Charley Farley and Rags, ventriloquist Kimmo and children's performer Mark Traversoni. From Good Friday through to Easter Monday there will be a special Easter egg hunt and children will also have the chance to enter an Easter bonnet competition with prizes.
Location: Cadbury World, Linden Road, Bournville, Birmingham B30 2LU
Dates: 31st March to 15th April (TBC), 10am-3pm Monday - Friday; 9.30 - 4pm Saturday 5th, Sunday 6th and Monday 7th; 10am - 4pm ever weekend thenceforth; 10-2pm Tuesday 15th
Prices: Adult £14.30 - Child £10.40 Under 4s - free - Concessions £10.90 Family
Nearest Travelodge: Birmingham Central Newhall Street Travelodge.
*Prices correct at 09/03/2012
**£19 rooms can be booked 21 days in advance.
Looking for the latest FABUKBreaks offers on a wide range of UK Holiday Park holidays let FABTHINGS2do help you.
Why not plan ahead and immerse the family in all things chocolaty with an egg-stra special short break! To book a room just go to www.travelodge.co.uk room stays must take place between 31st March and 15th April 2012.
Travelodge have sourced a selection of 12 great family days out:
- 8 chocolate themed events
- 4 Easter themed events - if you chocolate isn't you're thing.
So why not turn a daytrip into an action packed, fun break and explore the local area. To help the pennies stretch further Travelodge is also offering discounts to top attractions for bookings made between 8th March and 11th April 2012 at Travelodge. Every booking made between this time will be able to download a discount voucher for one of 150 attractions throughout the UK including; Theme Parks, Zoo's, Museums and Historic Places of Interest.
With Travelodge you only pay for the room and not for the number of people staying per room. A family room caters for two adults and two children or three adults - so for a family of four, it works out at just £4.75 per person- cheaper than a portion of fish and chips! By booking a GBP 19 Travelodge room, you will have plenty of change left to spoil yourself. A Travelodge family room has a luxury king size bed, sofa bed, en-suite facilities, flat screen TV with 18 free digital channels, free tea / coffee making facilities and WIFI. (You only pay for the room and not for number of people staying per room).
Travelodge hotels that have a Bar Cafe offer an 'eat as much as you like' breakfast buffet for £7.65 per guest and for each paying adult - two children under the age of 16 eat for free. You can make a 20% saving on breakfast by ordering online and you can order a two course evening online for just £9.95 per person too.
All dishes on their children's menu are £3.95, meals include macaroni cheese, cheeseburger and chips and Spaghetti meatballs - 10p from each sale of this dish will be donated to Travelodge's appointed charity KidsOut, helping bring fun & happiness to disadvantaged children in the UK.
Listed below are the best events happening across the UK (according to Travelodge):
Easter egg hunt and Chocolate Workshop at Kew Gardens
Get the whole family involved and join the annual Easter egg hunt at Kew Gardens. Kids can search for the friendly characters of Kew Gardens - Buzzie Bee, Wriggler and Snap, Trap and Venus - who are hidden around the Gardens. Collect three tokens to receive a Green and Black's chocolate treat from the Easter bunnies! Alternatively, visit the drop-in chocolate workshops where families can learn to make objects from chocolate.
Location: Kew Gardens, London, TW9 3PZ
Dates: Easter Egg hunt: Easter day (4 April), 9.30 - 12.30 (or until the eggs run out!)
Chocolate Workshop: Sat 9 April to Mon 25 April & Fri 29 April to Mon 2 May, 10.30am, 11.30am, 12.30pm, 1.30pm & 2.30pm
Prices: Free*
Nearest Travelodge: London Kew Bridge Travelodge, though we have many more hotels in London.
The Great Peter Rabbit East Egg Hunt, Cumbria.
Take part in one of the UK's biggest Easter Egg hunts. Get your hands on one of the 100 hand crafted Peter Rabbit eggs that will be hidden across Cumbria. This hunt gives you the chance to get out into the beautiful Lake District countryside and enjoy the thrill of the hunt against other families and children.
Dates: Thursday 5th April 2012
Times: Starts at 10am
Prices: Free*
Nearest Travelodge: Kendal Travelodge. Prices start from £19**.
Waddesdon Manor Cadbury Easter Trail
The National Trust and Cadbury are teaming up for lots of chocolate fun and an Easter trail at Waddesdon Manor. Enjoy a family day out in the beautiful grounds, with children's explorer trials, an aviary, and beautiful gardens to explore. Why not make a day of it and enjoy the most of the stunning setting.
Location: Waddesdon Manor, Waddesdon, Buckinghamshire, HP18 0JH
Dates: Wednesday 4 April - Easter Monday 9 April, from 10am
Prices: £2.50* per trail. Normal admission charges apply, Adults from £6.50, Children from £3.50, children under 5 go free, families from £16.50.
Nearest Travelodge: Thame Travelodge.
The Giant Easter Egg Hunt
Experience the fun of the biggest Easter Egg hunt in Dorset. The wonderful surroundings of the subtropical gardens at Abbotsbury, with face painting and many more fun activities will suit all the family. Plus, there are thousands of Cadbury's cream eggs to be found!
Location: Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens, Bullers Way, Abbotsbury, Nr Weymouth, Dorset, DT3 4LA
Dates: 06/04/2012 - 09/04/2012
Prices: Adults form £10.50*, children from £7.50*
Nearest Travelodge: Ilminster Travelodge
Lauriston Castle Easter Egg Hunt
Enjoy a day of fun Easter activities in the beautiful setting of Lauriston Castle. You can hunt for clues to find yourself some tasty treats then enjoy some Easter stories, an egg and spoon race, and finish the day by making your own framed Easter collage.
Location: Lauriston Castle, 2a Cramond Road South, Edinburgh EH4 5QD
Dates: Saturday 7th April, 10am - 12.30pm
Prices: £6 per adult / child*
Nearest Travelodge: Edinburgh Learmonth Travelodge.
The Great Easter Egg Hunt 2012
Enjoy a family day out at this popular community event at Cranleigh Showground where there are plenty of chocolate surprises to be found. This is the perfect day out for the kids and parents too - get there early as this event becomes even more popular every year.
Location: Cranleigh Showhround, Surrey, GU6 7DW
Dates: Good Friday, 6th April 2011 at 10:30am
Prices: Free entry and parking*
Nearest Travelodge: Dorkin Travelodge
The Big Easter Bunny Hunt
Join the Big Easter Bunny Hunt in the beautiful surroundings of Waterperry Gardens, home to 8 acres of beautifully landscaped ornamental gardens, plant centre and garden shop, gift barn, museum and teashop. It is your challenge to find bunnies with a difference hidden around the ornamental gardens. Find 8 out of 10 and claim your special Easter prize from Miss H's tea shop.
Location: Waterperry Gardens,Nr. Wheatley, Oxfordshire, England. OX33 1JZ
Dates: 31st March to 15th April
Prices: It costs £2 per child and children must be accompanied by an adult for whom the normal garden entrance fee applies.
Nearest Travelodge: Oxford Wheatley Travelodge
Easter Egg Eggstravagaza at Cadbury World
Cadbury World has an egg-cellent line-up of family-friendly events including circus performances with Charley Farley and Rags, ventriloquist Kimmo and children's performer Mark Traversoni. From Good Friday through to Easter Monday there will be a special Easter egg hunt and children will also have the chance to enter an Easter bonnet competition with prizes.
Location: Cadbury World, Linden Road, Bournville, Birmingham B30 2LU
Dates: 31st March to 15th April (TBC), 10am-3pm Monday - Friday; 9.30 - 4pm Saturday 5th, Sunday 6th and Monday 7th; 10am - 4pm ever weekend thenceforth; 10-2pm Tuesday 15th
Prices: Adult £14.30 - Child £10.40 Under 4s - free - Concessions £10.90 Family
Nearest Travelodge: Birmingham Central Newhall Street Travelodge.
*Prices correct at 09/03/2012
**£19 rooms can be booked 21 days in advance.
Looking for the latest FABUKBreaks offers on a wide range of UK Holiday Park holidays let FABTHINGS2do help you.
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