This lush island is pleasantly small, which enables tourists too see a wide variety of attractions during a one or two-week stay. The island is roughly 90 miles wide and approximately 50 miles long. Tourist areas are concentrated in the southernmost regions of the island near the coastal city of Kuta and the city of Denpasar, which is home to the Bali’s Ngurah Rai International Airport.

Bali is known for its beautiful beaches, verdant landscape and towering volcanic peaks that enrich the island’s soil. The fertile land enhances Bali’s agricultural products, which include premium coffee and rice. The island’s rainy season begins in November and continues through April. However, Bali is a beautiful destination to visit any time of year. The highest tourist traffic occurs between July and September, but many visitors also arrive between December and January. During the low season, visitors have more bargaining power and access to a larger range of accommodations. One trait that makes Bali so popular is its diverse tourist accommodations ranging from communal rooms that are ideal for backpackers to luxurious beachside villas and private bungalows.

The island of Bali is home to a large number of historic temples and archeological sites. Unlike other islands in Indonesia, Bali is home to the country’s Hindu minority. According to legend, the first Hindus arrived on the island as early as 100 B.C., and their cultural legacy is marvelously apparent today. The island’s many ancient temples are distributed across caves, sea cliffs and fertile plains. These important temples, which are used for many religious ceremonies, feature unique Balinese architecture with elegant pagoda-like towers made from palm thatch and readily available materials.

On land, visitors can tour protected rainforests that are home to macaques, monkeys, coffee-eating civets and many indigenous animals. Although several of the island’s endemic species, such as the Bali tiger, are now extinct, Bali still has one of the most diverse ecosystems in the world. Along the shore, tourists can enjoy beautiful beaches, excellent surfing and breathtaking underwater habitats. Bali and the islands of Indonesia have some of the best diving areas in the world. With 20 percent of the world’s coral reefs located in this archipelago, Indonesia is home to 3,000 unique reef fish, more than 600 types of coral and many species that are waiting to be discovered. Other underwater creatures that divers can encounter include sharks, sea turtles and giant manta rays. Visit Bali to discover the spectacular scenery, pristine beaches, ancient historical buildings and culinary traditions that have earned this tropical island worldwide recognition as a tourist destination.

image from flickr

Marylebone High Street
Situated just a five minute walk from Baker Street Station at one end, and 10 minutes from Oxford Street at the other, Marylebone High Street feels hidden away compared to its busy West End neighbours. Lined with small independent shops, high street boutiques, restaurants and cafes, there’s also a scattering of high end designers such as Paul Smith and L’Occitane – plenty to fill a leisurely day. The street is also home to arguably one of the most beautiful book stores in London, Daunt Books, where literary fiends venturing behind the Edwardian style front are spoiled with an oak-lined interior and endless shelves of travel books, organised by country and recommended by knowledgeable staff.

Camden Passage, Angel Islington
While Angel’s N1 Shopping Centre concerns itself with high street staples such as Gap and French Connection, the real gems of Islington are to be found tucked away on Camden Passage. Located on the same side as the tube station and running parallel to lively Upper Street, the cobbled streets of Camden Passage are home to antique market stalls and shops where dealers sell anything from furniture and jewellery to clothing. Head there on a Wednesday or Saturday to see the market in full swing, or else take a wander on any other day of the week to browse the shops. The grade II listed Camden Head pub is at the half way point, and on hand with refreshments for those with tired feet.

Westbourne Grove, Notting Hill
Visitors who choose to stay in hotels further west will no doubt already have a visit to Notting Hill’s famous Portobello Road scheduled into the trip. While the markets and shops of this West London spot are definitely worth a look, the heavy tourist crowds can get in the way of anyone looking for a truly relaxing afternoon. A quieter, more exclusive alternative is nearby Westbourne Grove, where fashion-forward visitors will find a mixture of designer labels, contemporary art galleries and bespoke jewellery shops. There’s even a pet boutique and café further up the road, where pampered pooches can sniff around for a new collar while their owners stop for a glass of champagne.

Fly/cruise holidays involve flying out to meet your ship and then cruising the area from there, flying back from the same or a different airport. Many late cruise deals to the Caribbean are of this kind, allowing passengers to have maximum time in the tropics without a lengthy voyage to get there. Another option is to cruise out and fly back (or vice versa). Transatlantic cruises from Southampton, where ships are berthed at different locations in winter and summer, are often booked on this basis.

A growing number of UK travellers, particularly those with young families, are choosing no-fly (sometimes called ex-UK) cruise options, which involve no flying at all. Instead, the ship cruises from Southampton (or another British port) on a “round robin tour”, before returning to the port she left from. Cunard, P & O, Royal Caribbean International and Princess all offer no-fly cruises from Southampton. The Mediterranean, Canaries, Baltic, Scandinavia and Egypt are just some of the destinations. P & O and Cunard also offer luxurious world cruises from Southampton, taking passengers to Australia, the Caribbean, Asia, America and many other fabulous destinations.

Cruise-and-stay vacations combine a conventional beach holiday with a cruise experience, giving you the best of both worlds. For example, there are late cruise deals to Egypt which combine a stay in a Red Sea resort with a cruise down the Nile. Other options include Alaska, the US and the Far East.

If you’re not sure if cruising is for you, there are mini-cruises from Southampton which allow you to “dip your toes in the water”. Alternatively, there are late cruise deals on river cruise vessels, for those who like to be within sight of land.

Dubai offers the family a chance to get wet at Jumeirah Beach. The family can take a picnic, and enjoy swimming or playing in the sand making sand castles. It will be a chance for the family to relax and be together in a natural setting of sparkling water and sandy beach. Jumeirah Beach Park is complete with lifeguards and picnic tables as well as play areas for the kids.

After a day in the sun, the family can go indoors to a kid-friendly shopping mall. The malls offer interactive activities such as Magic Planet and Encounter Zone. The kids and adults can enjoy all these activities in the comfort of an air-conditioned building away from the heat of the day. Another activity will be Ski Dubai’s indoor snow slopes. The family can go from the sun to the snow by just going inside and trying the slopes.
Can you imagine seeing snow in the desert? A family holiday in Dubai makes that possible with their indoor slopes of real snow.

The kids will love a memorable ride on a camel down a sandy desert trek. Your family holiday can include taking a desert safari away from the city. You will be able to see the stars in the desert’s sky if you travel by night. A camel ride will be an event that is sure to be remembered for a long time.

Kids love the outdoors, and they will be excited when they see the water rides at Wild Wadi theme park. The park offers water slides for the daring as well as for some relaxing fun. While in Dubai, be sure to go by the Wildlife & Waterbird Sanctuary to see what it has to offer. Then, take a trip on the scenic train and have some fun with games at Al Mamzar Park. You might also want to check out the Wonderland Amusement Park for a day of adventure.

The family will want to do a little sightseeing while in Dubai. Burj Khalifa is the tallest building in the world, and from it, the family can get a distant view of the area. Then, to learn more about the history of the area, take the family to the Dubai Museum.

After learning about Dubai’s history, you can go do some bargain hunting at the cities open-air markets. These markets offer almost anything you might want for a souvenir to take home to remember this momentous family holiday in Dubai. You will be able to smell the aromas of the spices and perfumes in these open-air markets. You will want to return to Dubai for more holidays after experiencing all of these activities.

Built originally in 1887, it was turned into a hotel between 1896 and 1899 – when it was built Hall designed the courtyard which could be used for both carriages and for the residents to use as a garden.

In the hotel the two entrances in the side wings exist in their original form to this day, by 1894, before the block turned into a hotel it appears to have been extended towards St. Ermin’s hill. In 1896 it was purchased with the intention of turning it into a hotel, which was common with many buildings of such grandeur – however the apartments were offered without a kitchen, so servants were used to provide such facilities for the residents – but the facilities were provided including smoking rooms and reading rooms, for the use of a hotel.

The new owners on development into a hotel, made the courtyard into a neo-Baroque space, with veranda’s and a double staircase leading to a balcony at gallery level – there was also a double height ballroom put in place and a restaurant which is now The Cloisters, in which the
cove in contains is decorated in rococo plasterwork; all created by a theatre architect J P Briggs, who provided a sequence of public rooms, in great decoration and rich plasterwork. Since the hotel had its ownership changed in 2010, they have begun to restore the hotel to how Briggs designed it.

St. Ermin’s hotel has somewhat of an exciting history and something that other Westminster hotels don’t have, as it has been regularly used by the governments secret services. During the 1930’s the hotel and various other buildings in the estate were used by what we know now as MI6 to meet up with agents, and became the home of the Special Operations Executive working under cover. Throughout World War Two it had varying ties with all manner of secret services and even having a listening post for MI8, on the roof of what is now the passport office in the area. The hotel has even been used by MI5, and the Naval Intelligence Division – and shortly before the second world war, the hotel was used for guerrilla warfare classes run partly by MI6 and partly by others working for ‘King and Country’, which also contained two of the Cambridge Five spy ring, using the hotel as a base to meet their Russian Handlers.

1. Jumeirah Beach and Park

Jumeirah Beach and is consistantly one of the top places to visit. With it’s sandy beach, warm water and pleasant park, this is a great place to spend the day. Fast food is available, but many bring a pack lunch.

2. Grand Jumeirah Mosque

Beautiful architecture and location make Jumeirah Mosque one of the most photographed Mosques in the world. However, you are not limited to taking pictures. Jumeirah Mosque has partnered with the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU) to provide tours of the Mosque to non-Muslims throughout the week.

3. Wild Wadi Waterpark

Looking for some wet fun in the sun? Don’t miss the Wild Wadi Waterpark, which offers over 30 rides for children and adults. This waterpark offers a wave/riptide pool where you can bodyboard and kneeboard. Adrenaline junkies will also love Jumeirah Sceirah, a speed slide that hurtles riders up to 80 kph and provides the sensation of weightless. For the less faint of heart, guests will find slower slides, a lazy river, and plenty of children’s attractions.

4. Candylicious

Candylicious touts itself as the worlds largest candy store, and with over 5,000 offerings, we believe them! From candy to chocolate, gummy bears to M&M’s, and the worlds largest lollipop tree, if you like sweets, this is a must see treat.

5. Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo

The Dubai Aquarium, located at the Dubai Mall, boasts one of the largest tanks in the world. Walk through a 270 degree tunnel to get an outstanding view of underwater sea life, or check out the Underwater Zoo, where you can view animals in several habitats, including a Rain Forest, Rocky Shore and Living Ocean.

6. Dubai Ice Rink

The Dubai Ice Rink, also located at the Dubai Mall, is a treat for those who want to get out of the heat. The rink offers skates for hire, lessons, public events, and even a broom ball league! The rink is also the home to the Emirates Hockey League.

7. Dubai Fountain

The Dubai fountains are known for their spectacular shows that shoot water 150 metres into the air. Designed by the creators of the Bellagio Fountains in Las Vegas, the fountain puts on two shows in the afternoon, and shows every half hour in the evening. Try getting a dinner reservation outside and enjoy the show while dining!

8. Burj Khalifa

Simply put, the Burj Khalifa is the tallest building on the entire planet. Visitors can experience “At the Top,” which allows guests to view Dubai from an observation deck on the 124th floor. Bring your camera!

9. Dubai Museum

The Dubai Museum is located in the oldest building in the city, and presents the history and culture of Dubai and provides details in the traditional way of life for the area.

10. Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve

The Reserve is dedicated to protecting wildlife and habitat. Tours are available that include a safari, camel rides, dune bashing, dinner and more.

Whilst travelling the world, it’s without doubt that it is easy to meet people, especially if staying in public hostels with shared sleeping and dining facilities. Some couples can tell romantic tales of how they met in Australia where one of them grew up, and the other happened to walk in to the bar they worked in and have since moved across the globe to be together. Other travellers can come back with tales of the many people they meet and may have had fleeting romances with. Not everyone is lucky enough to meet the man or woman of their dreams by chance, and sometimes a little help with breaking the ice before you go out to meet new people is a blessing in disguise.

Some of the dating websites have cottoned on to the idea that people with similar interests, ethics and hobbies are likely to get on very well, and now that we are all online, the search for love can go global thanks to new ways to communicate and easier ways to travel. So anyone hoping to find love on their travels in a specific country can search terms like Indian Singles to before or during their travels.

Starting a friendship online before meeting them in an unfamiliar country is always a good idea, and having already broken the ice online and talked about likes and dislikes, it much more likely that you’ll be able to socialise easily offline if you meet in a new country. At least, if nothing romantic comes of the online relationship, your foreign friend will almost certainly be able to give you a local insider’s tip on the best and worst places to travel to in their city, and you will know someone who speaks the same languages as you in case of an emergency. If something does come of the online relationship, then it could make planning a particular part of your travelling tour easier, or make meeting your new friend in real life a little easier if you are able to meet somewhere in the middle of the world if their city isn’t already on your planned route.

Antarctica
People will be attracted to this stunning destination for the breath-taking glacier cliffs, unique views of penguin colonies and awe inspiring icebergs. This cruise is one of the most expensive so look out for late cruise deals.

Galapagos
This is a unique opportunity to explore some of the remotest islands that were first observed by Charles Darwin when developing his evolution theory.

South Pacific
This destination is special for its beautiful tropical scenery. Discover the paradise of the Polynesian and Fiji Islands and be transported to an idyllic world of palm trees, sandy beaches and blue seas.

Mediterranean
There are so many exciting and vibrant regions to visit such as the Greek Islands, the Spanish Costa del Sol, the French Riveria and the Italian Ligurian Coast. Cruises from Southampton are available between May and September which are the warmest months to travel.

Alaska
This cruise offers the chance to see fjords, glaciers and snow-capped scenery with plenty of chances to stop off for pictures. June to August are the warmest months with June providing the most daylight for taking in the views.

Fjords of Norway
This is your chance to sail into some of the most awe inspiring, narrow fjords. These stunningly beautiful natural wonders will take your breath away.

Baltic Sea
This cruise will take you to visit some great Scandinavian cities including Russia’s St Petersburg.

Caribbean
This cruise allows you to visit many of the nation islands with short trips available between ports.

Hawaiian Islands
Here you can enjoy views of the volcanic landscape and its lush tropical greenery. The sun shines most days making it an excellent tropical getaway.

Mexico
This cruise will take you on a journey to see Puerto Vallarta, Acapulco and ports along the west coast. Enjoy delicious margaritas and dance to mariachi bands.

One of the most important pieces of advice is to book early, even as much as a year in advance. People traditionally book their holidays just after Christmas, but there are significant savings to be made if you can manage to do it before. What’s more, the longer you have to save up a good amount of spending money, the easier it will be.

Travelling to your holiday can often be a costly experience, especially if you travel during busy times on the road. One way of ensuring you don’t get caught up in a gridlock is to travel at a slightly more unsociable time. A trip early in the morning or late at night can be the difference between an expensive, stressful drive and a pleasant, hassle-free journey. It’s not just money you’ll save; a problem-free trip may also douse any tensions that could build up in the car otherwise!

When you’ve arrived at your destination, don’t think that you have to spend loads of money to get the most out of it. . Family holiday parks or campsites have plenty of free things to do that are just as much fun. has plenty of free things to do that are just as much fun. These include a nature trail, lounging around on the beach, or playing a few games in the countryside. Don’t live a miser’s life, just budget and spend money on the essentials.

Camping gives holidaymakers one key advantage: complete control over food. Make use of local supermarkets – perhaps researching the cheapest beforehand – to stock up your storage sensibly. Do be sure to keep an eye on best before dates in order to avoid any illness.

There are a whole host of ways to save money while on holiday. With these useful tips, you need not break the bank to enjoy that much deserved getaway with your family.

Accommodations
Luxury- Shutters on the Beach (shuttersonthebeach.com) sits in walking distance of the Santa Monica Pier. Designed along the lines of an intimate boutique hotel, each room has floor to ceiling windows and a balcony where guests can sit and enjoy views of the city. An in-house restaurant serves American entrees and the hotel spa offers a wide range of body treatments. In true California style, the hotel has a small swimming pool.

Moderate- Sheraton Universal Hotel (sheraton.com) is the go-to spot for staff members and guests of Universal Studios. Situated close to the Hollywood Bowl and Universal Studios Theme Park, the hotel plays host to a number of conferences and conventions. For an additional fee, guests have access to concierge services and afternoon hors d’oeuvres.

Budget- Cal Mar Hotel Suites (calmarhotel.com). Beach dwellers cannot get enough of Cal Mar, located two blocks from the ocean. Apartment-style accommodations feature pullout couches, a separate bedroom and full kitchen with utensils. The heated outdoor pool is available for guest use during cooler California weather.

Attractions
Cultural
The Getty Center (getty.edu.) continues to delight long time residents and new arrivals with pieces from American and European artists. Photographs, sculpture and manuscripts line the halls. During pleasant weather, throngs congregate in the central garden area to order a bite at the café.

Watts Towers took artist Simon Rodia over 30 years to create. The massive structure consists of 17 individual works and sits in an area known for riots during the late 60s and early 90s. Guests should visit the site during daylight hours for safety reasons.

Fitness
Los Angeles is known for its beautiful people. Adventurous types are more than welcome to take in a workout at Venice Beach. Skateboarders and bodybuilders come to take in fresh air. Couch potatoes can enjoy a little people watching.

Los Angeles Conservancy Walking Tours (laconservancy.org) combines two great activities: sightseeing and cardiovascular workouts. Guests enjoy trekking through downtown all the way to nearby San Pedro. Reservations are required due to the tour’s popularity.

Shopping
No trip to L.A. would be complete without shopping. Rodeo Drive houses high-end boutiques. The only shopping complex designed by famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright sits mere footsteps away. Santee Alley, known as The Alley, features outdoor merchants offering reasonably priced goods. Jewelry, clothing and toys are all available for purchase.

Nightlife
Bar Marmont (chateaumarmont.com), located inside legendary Chateau Marmont, offers excellent people watching. Well-heeled patrons enjoy cocktails and gastro-pub cuisine. The Woods offers a slightly more relaxed environment, enhanced by its location inside a Hollywood strip mall. Drink specials are on tap until 10:00 p.m.