Are you considering a Sardinia luxury travel package for your next vacation? Imagine turquoise waters, pristine beaches, and rich cultural experiences waiting for you on this Mediterranean island.
Discover the Allure of Sardinia
Sardinia is a gem in the Mediterranean, offering visitors a perfect blend of natural beauty, history, and luxury. Its coastline boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe, such as Costa Smeralda and La Pelosa Beach.
Inland, the rugged mountains and charming villages provide a stark contrast, showcasing the island’s diverse landscape.
Experience Unmatched Luxury
Booking a Sardinia luxury travel package ensures that every aspect of your trip is taken care of. From five-star accommodations to private tours, these packages are designed to offer the utmost comfort and exclusivity.
You’ll stay in luxurious hotels or villas, complete with stunning views, private pools, and top-notch amenities. Imagine waking up to the sound of the waves and enjoying a gourmet breakfast on your private terrace.
Tailored Itineraries for Every Interest
Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an adventure seeker, a Sardinia luxury travel package can be customized to suit your interests.
Explore ancient ruins like the Nuraghe Su Nuraxi, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Delight in the local cuisine with a private cooking class or a tour of the island’s renowned wineries.
For the adventurous, options like sailing, scuba diving, or hiking through the Gennargentu National Park await.
First-Hand Experiences
On my last visit to Sardinia, I opted for a luxury travel package and it was worth every penny.
The concierge service was impeccable, arranging everything from private beach dinners to guided tours of historic sites.
One highlight was a yacht tour along the coastline, where we discovered hidden coves and enjoyed a fresh seafood lunch on board.
Convenience and Peace of Mind
Traveling can be stressful, but a Sardinia luxury travel package alleviates many common concerns.
Transfers, accommodations, and activities are pre-arranged, leaving you free to relax and enjoy your vacation. This seamless experience ensures that you make the most of your time on the island.
Exclusive Access
One of the significant benefits of a luxury travel package is access to exclusive experiences.
This might include private viewings at museums, reservations at Michelin-starred restaurants, or invitations to local festivals and events.
These curated experiences provide a deeper connection to the island and its culture.
A Culinary Adventure
Sardinia is a paradise for food lovers. The island’s cuisine is a delightful mix of Italian and Mediterranean influences.
Enjoy a private tour of the local markets, where you can sample fresh produce, cheeses, and cured meats.
Dining at a traditional Sardinian restaurant is a must, where dishes like suckling pig, culurgiones (stuffed pasta), and seadas (honey pastries) will tantalize your taste buds.
Sustainable Luxury
Many Sardinia luxury travel packages focus on sustainability, ensuring that your visit has a minimal impact on the environment.
Stay at eco-friendly resorts that prioritize renewable energy and waste reduction. Participate in activities that support local communities and conservation efforts.
A Journey to Remember
Every detail of a Sardinia luxury travel package is designed to create lasting memories.
Whether it’s a sunset cruise, a guided hike through ancient forests, or a private wine tasting, these experiences are curated to provide an unforgettable journey.
How to Choose the Right Package
When selecting a Sardinia luxury travel package, consider what aspects of the trip are most important to you.
Do you prefer a focus on relaxation, adventure, or cultural immersion? Research different providers and read reviews to find a package that aligns with your interests and budget.
Making the Most of Your Trip
To truly enjoy your Sardinia luxury travel package, take the time to explore beyond the popular tourist spots.
Visit lesser-known villages, interact with locals, and embrace the island’s slower pace of life. This immersive approach will enrich your travel experience and provide a more authentic connection to Sardinia.
With tailored itineraries, exclusive experiences, and top-notch accommodations, you can relax and fully immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of Sardinia.
Start planning your dream vacation today and experience the unparalleled luxury and charm of Sardinia.
Embrace the Island Life
From the moment you set foot on Sardinian soil, you’ll be captivated by its beauty and charm. The island’s unique blend of natural wonders and luxurious experiences makes it a perfect destination for a memorable vacation.
So, pack your bags, leave your worries behind, and embark on an extraordinary journey with a Sardinia luxury travel package.
Italy, with its rich history, beautiful landscapes, and delicious gastronomy, has always been a dream destination for tourists. In the southern part of the country, the Amalfi Coast region and the islands of Capri and Ischia offer a unique experience to enjoy during a well-deserved vacation. In this guide, we will unveil these gems of southern Italy, providing essential information about Amalfi, Positano, Capri, and Ischia, as well as tips on getting around so you can live unforgettable days.
Amalfi: Jewel of the Amalfi Coast
Amalfi, with its medieval charm and breathtaking coastal location, is the perfect starting point for your vacation in southern Italy. The narrow cobblestone streets, colorful houses clinging to the hillside, and the majestic Cathedral of St. Andrew are just some of the wonders that await you. Enjoy local cuisine in seaside restaurants and immerse yourself in the region’s history by exploring the ancient Arsenale della Repubblica.
Positano: Coastal Beauty and Elegance
Positano, known for its colorful houses descending towards the sea, is a dream destination. Fashion boutiques, pebble beaches, and stunning views of the Mediterranean create an atmosphere of relaxed elegance. Stroll through cobblestone streets, relax on Spiaggia Grande beaches, and discover the Church of Santa Maria Asunta with its iconic dome. Don’t miss the chance to taste local cuisine in seaside restaurants.
Capri: Mediterranean Luxury
The island of Capri, with its natural beauty and luxurious ambiance, is a treasure in the Gulf of Naples. Upon arrival by ferry, you’ll be welcomed at Marina Grande. Take the funicular to the lively Piazzetta, the social heart of Capri. Explore the Blue Grotto, stroll through the Gardens of Augustus, and enjoy the views from Villa San Michele. Capri combines natural charm with Mediterranean luxury.
Ischia: Thermal Waters and Serenity
Ischia, the lesser-known but equally charming volcanic island, offers a more relaxed experience. Immerse yourself in thermal waters at Negombo or enjoy Citara Beach. Explore the Aragonese Castle and stroll through the peaceful gardens of La Mortella. Ischia offers an authentic coastal serenity away from tourist crowds.
Getting Around: Tips for Navigating These Italian Treasures
Exploring these gems of southern Italy requires careful planning of transportation. Here are some tips:
Boat Rentals: Freedom on the Sea
For a unique experience, consider renting a boat. Sailing along the coast will provide unparalleled views and the freedom to explore hidden coves and corners. The Ischia Transfer Service by Giosymar offers you the opportunity to navigate the crystal-clear waters and enjoy the best panoramic views of the Gulf of Naples coast. Their professional team provides all the necessary information for a safe and comfortable sailing experience.
Buses and Taxis Inland
The bus network on the Amalfi Coast is efficient and offers stunning views, although it can be crowded in high season. Taxis are a comfortable option for inland exploration. In Capri and Ischia, local buses and taxis are also practical options for getting around the islands.
In conclusion, living a vacation in southern Italy involves immersing yourself in the magic of Amalfi, Positano, Capri, and Ischia. From charming history to coastal elegance, these destinations offer unique experiences. Carefully plan your transportation to make the most of your time and fully enjoy the beauty and culture that southern Italy has to offer. Get ready to create unforgettable memories in this paradisiacal corner of the Mediterranean!
A trip to Italy is just what you need to have an extraordinary, immersive, engaging, and above all, relaxing experience that can rejuvenate both the body and mind. When it comes to the summer season, Italian regions offer an ideal solution for a vacation that combines relaxation and excursions, as the territory is rich in natural coves, paradisiacal corners, and breathtaking views.
For trekking enthusiasts, there are numerous paths to explore, and mountain trails distinguished by the greenery of untouched nature. Italy is also satisfying for art and history lovers, with constructions dating back to different historical periods and influenced by various entities, from Arab to Greek, passing through Norman influences. In light of this, what are the best regions in Italy for an unforgettable seaside vacation? Where can you find the most beautiful beaches?
Puglia
The first among the best Italian regions to mention for a memorable seaside vacation is Puglia. The area is full of facilities such as resorts and villages, perfect for the whole family. Convenience is provided by being just steps away from the beach, bathed in turquoise waters, without the need to worry about finding a spot with an umbrella and beach chairs.
In fact, you won’t have to worry about anything if you choose an all-inclusive package, and you can even taste the delights of Puglian cuisine for both lunch and dinner. Puglia has unique features, and you could organize excursions to get a close look at the famous trulli of Alberobello, as well as the white buildings of Ostuni, which are not to be missed. And how could one forget the history and architecture of Bari? Green areas are also abundant, with countryside along the coast where you can enjoy healthy trekking to discover the local flora and fauna.
Sicily
The land of taste and beautiful seas, Sicily is among the best regions in Italy to experience a dream vacation. Here, some of the most beautiful beaches in the country can be found, such as Isola Bella in Taormina or Mondello in the province of Palermo. To fully enjoy the experience, it is suggested to rely on a tour operator that organizes a group tour in Sicily, combining natural attractions with artistic and architectural ones, allowing specific stops to discover local food and wine. Thanks to this formula, you won’t miss the Greek-influenced buildings of Syracuse, the Arab-influenced ones near Palermo, the Taormina Theater, and archaeological sites. The route to climb Mount Etna is also highly recommended.
Campania
Campania is rich in colors and has very different natural landscapes. You can start from the capital Naples, getting lost in its wonderful streets and promenade, then move to the Amalfi Coast. A tour of Sorrento, Amalfi, and the surrounding areas is practically mandatory, as the beaches are composed of fine sand washed by a distinctly azure sea. If desired, you can extend your vacation in Campania to explore the archipelago formed by the three islands of Ischia, Capri, and Procida.
Sardinia
The last of the Italian regions to head to for a seaside vacation is undoubtedly Sardinia. Here, there are natural coves that are truly suggestive, with rock formations and varied flora, as well as coves and paradisiacal spots overlooking the sea. The latter is among the most transparent in Italy, so much so that there are more beaches suitable for children. The bays of the Costa Smeralda are absolutely to be discovered, and near Chia Beach (where there are sand dunes), you can organize underwater dives. Among the most important natural reserves in Sardinia is the National Park of the Archipelago of La Maddalena, where you can walk peacefully.
Among the best places that everyone dreams to visit at least once in their life, Italy represents an absolute stand out. For every traveler worthy of this name, Italy stands right at the peak of countries visited or yet to travel to. Moreover, the country is basically the perfect holiday for couples. Lovers choose Italy and its amazing scenarios to crown their love, making it also the destination of their honeymoon, choosing to spend the better part of their wedding time in the European country.
With that said, we must say that planning a holiday in Italy it’s not the easiest task, especially if the one who tries doesn’t have any experience with a travel organization. This is, first, due to the fact that there are so many things to do and see in Italy that self-planning could make you risk not visiting as many things as possible or not enjoying the experience in the best possible way. Furthermore, in Italy tourist guides are, in most cases, freelancers, causing several expenses and a painfully detailed planning process.
Luckily, we have the ideal solution for both issues. First, you can call an expert travel agency to plan your trip according to your tastes and exigences, being able to count on dreamy honeymoon packages in Italy, built with the purpose of giving strong emotions to travelers in search of a unique experience with which embellish their relationship. Second, in the next paragraphs, we are going to list some of the best cities and their main attractions to absolutely visit when going to Italy.
Rome
Visiting Rome means living a full immersion in the history of one of the biggest Empires to ever exist. There are many attractions in the ancient Italian Capital. You cannot say that you visited Rome if you didn’t see the Colosseum, the Forum, and the Pantheon. Moreover, the city has Palatine Hill, the Trevi Fountain, where you must toss a coin in order to make a wish, and the various Vatican attractions. Among the others, we can find the Sistine Chapel and Michelangelo’s Pietà.
Florence
If Rome works as the showcase of the Empire which grew in Italy’s cradle, in Florence, you will be astonished by the beauty of the pinnacle of the Renaissance. Florence is, basically, a giant art museum, in which the top attractions are, for sure, the Duomo, the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, topped by its marvelous dome, the marble inlaid bell tower made by Giotto and the prestigious Uffizi Gallery, admired and well known worldwide.
Venice
For sure, we are talking about one of the most romantic cities in the world. Built among and on top of the water, Venice is, simply, a magic city and, obviously, a major tourist attraction. There, you can’t miss St. Mark’s Square and its Basilica, which stands beside the Doge’s Palace. A gondola ride is also an experience to absolutely do since it will bring you to amazing postcard scenarios.
Earlier this month, we celebrated World Mental Health Day and new research has found that a third of Brits felt that camping or caravanning has had a very positive impact on their mental health.
22% believe it has a positive effect on their physical health, and 12% of people believe it has helped them to become closer to their family.
The research from Specialised Covers also found that 70% of the UK public believe “outside therapy” should be prescribed to people suffering from depression or anxiety.
Those based in London and Manchester were most enthusiastic about outside therapy (82% and 80% respectively) perhaps showing that those in larger cities crave the calming effects of prolonged time in nature more than others. Only 54% of people in Southampton thought prescribing outdoor therapy was a good thing, alongside 57% of people in Norwich.
Sometimes called “forest bathing”, outside therapy is the practice of spending time in nature and practising mindfulness in the great outdoors. Research suggests that this could calm those who feel stressed or anxious and help people (especially children) fight the “always-on” culture promoted by social media.
A recent government study found that people who spend more time in nature are significantly more likely to report good health and higher psychological wellbeing than those who don’t visit nature at all. Places like The Woodland Trust are now campaigning for the NHS to encourage more patients to spend prolonged periods of time outdoors.
When it comes to experiencing nature, the UK public agree that camping and caravanning is one of the best ways to do it. 93% of people believe that a caravanning holiday is “calming”, 44% think its “family-friendly” and 93% think its “affordable”. However, only 8% of the UK public would call it “glamorous”, and only 14% would describe caravan holidays as “modern”.
Those aged between 35-44 seem to believe in the healing powers of caravanning the most (44%), with those aged 65+ the most sceptical (20%). Surprisingly, the younger generation (18-24) are very enthusiastic about spending time in nature, with 27% believing a caravan holiday has helped them become closer to their family, 31% believing it has had a positive effect on their physical health, with 40% wishing they could caravan more often.
Fitness Coach Amy Elisabeth believes in the physical benefits of prolonged periods of time outside. She says:
“Spending time outside increases our Vitamin D levels and balances our Melatonin levels. Vitamin D helps regulate the calcium and phosphate in our bodies and melatonin regulates our sleeping cycle, so both are very important when it comes to the feeling of well-being.
“With fewer modern-day distractions (such as watching tv just before bed), people get better sleep as well, helping with their overall health.”
Katie Fishwick from Specialised Covers said: “We all feel the benefits of relaxing outdoors when we do it, but it’s often hard to make time in our busy schedules to really get immersed in nature.
“It’s great to see how many people are getting behind the healing benefits of outdoor therapy, and perhaps if it was prescribed, people would take more time to connect with the outdoors.
“Caravanning and camping are shedding their out-dated reputations and rightfully being seen as a wonderful way of relaxing, switching off, and connecting with ourselves and our families.”
Winter is a great time to travel as some of the sceneries you can catch this way are as magical as a place can get. Add to this the spirit of the holidays that are getting closer and closer by the day, and you get a sure recipe for an unforgettable trip. The holidays can sometimes be stressful, so deciding to take it easy and spending the holidays at a lovely destination might be exactly what you need at the end of the year.
Every city has its own traditions and celebrates the holidays differently, so wherever you decide to go, you can probably expect to see something interesting. However, there is no doubt the UK is a splendid choice for a winter holiday as the countryside is tranquil and scenic while the locals really know how to celebrate. If you’re curious about their traditions, or if you are in fact from the UK, looking for the best places to visit in your own country, here are a few suggestions that will help you decide.
York
Few would argue that York is one of the best places to spend Christmastime in. Especially for those who want a more dynamic experience, this is the place to go as York’s Christmas festival has a lot to offer. Lasting from the 14th of November all the way to the 22nd of December, you will have a chance to see ice sculptures and sip on mulled wine while also enjoying the Christmas concerts of notable performers such as Kate Rusby. If you’re traveling with children, you will be delighted to hear that there are so many programs catering to them that they will have a hard time choosing what they want to see. Magical lanterns, wreath-making workshops and encounters with Santa are all at your fingertips! What’s more, you can also break a sweat and have some fun if you take a trip to Stockeld Park, just half an hour’s drive from York, and try their artificial Nordic ski trail that takes you through an illuminated forest.
Edinburgh
Exploring the historic streets of Edinburgh, Scotland during the winter holidays is a great idea. Wander through the Old Town to feel like you have been transported to a different time period, marvel at the charming street lights that bring the Christmas spirit even closer, check out little stalls and enjoy some fresh-baked goods, or even go for a Ferris wheel ride to see the spectacular view from up above. Another option you have if you decide to go to Scotland is hopping on a train and exploring the highlands for yourself. The journey will already be an experience of its own as you stare out the window and marvel at the majestic views along the way. The Scottish Highlands are well worth traveling to if you are a nature lover for whom nothing compares to the sight of snow-capped mountains. Bring plenty of warm clothes and you’ll be fine!
Bath
A contender of York, Bath is surely among the top Christmas destinations in the UK. The Christmas market in this city is unparalleled – starting from November 28 and lasting for 18 days, Bath’s Christmas market is the biggest such shopping event in the southwest of the country. You will feel the holiday spirit once you see the beautiful wooden chalets lining the street, and you will feel tempted to stock up on Christmas presents. Indeed, few things make a better Christmas present than the unique, handmade items that constitute the majority of the articles sold at the markets, but even if you don’t purchase anything for your significant other, you will certainly get inspired to get some lovely Christmas gifts for him. What will make this trip even more memorable is the beautiful historic architecture this city is so well-known for. Shopping and relaxation can be the keywords of your Bath holiday, especially if you check out some of the natural hot springs, too.
Scarborough
While York is still a great choice, traveling a bit further north to North Yorkshire might be what those who want something less urban are looking for. If rather than in a crowded street, you’d like to spend the winter holidays by the sea, Scarborough is a lovely seaside town that could prove to be your perfect destination. Active travelers can enjoy a winter bike ride or just simply stroll by the harbor, enjoying the refreshing wind. In case the breathtaking sceneries are not enough in themselves, something in the area that is worth exploring is, for example, Burton Agnes Hall, a historic building where you can check out the nicely decorated rooms. Or if you are feeling creative, you can try to make your own willow deer in a workshop.
Leeds
From the 8th of November all the way to 22nd of December, Leeds boasts a magical Christmas market too, featuring more than 40 chalets selling all kinds of pretty things. What makes this market different is that it’s a German-style market, which means that you can expect to see lots of food stalls that sell delicious local and authentic German foods and drinks. As if that were not enough, the centerpiece of the market and everyone’s favorite is certainly the beautiful traditional carousel that makes for a nice backdrop for all of your photos. If you’re traveling with family, rest assured there are lots of children’s activities planned too, while adults can expect concerts to entertain them through the night.
When winter comes, all corners of the UK assume the holiday spirit and towns all over the country turn into magical winter wonderlands with twinkling lights, delicious traditional foods, and wintery landscapes. Sip some mulled wine, try ice-skating on one of the outdoor rinks, soak in the historic atmosphere among the beautiful Georgian buildings and forget about stressful days back at home. Whichever of the aforementioned destinations you decide to visit, you will have the chance to savor the local tastes and mingle with the crowd, and of course, have a lot of fun.
4 Reasons Why You Should Visit Portugal For a Winter Break
If you’re feeling a
winter holiday this year, then you’ll likely have many different destinations
in mind. Depending on the type of getaway you’re after, whether it be a
relaxing beach holiday or city escape, then Portugal is one of the best places
to consider for a winter break. Not only does the country have an outstanding
reputation for great weather, with almost year-round sunshine, but it is
extremely budget-friendly.
Portugal has boomed
in terms of popularity over the past few years, but winter is one of the best
times to visit as you avoid the majority of tourists and can still rest assured
that you’ll get good weather. With historic towns, beautiful scenery and great
food and drink, Portugal truly excels when it comes to a winter break holiday
destination.
Guaranteed Winter Sunshine
When winter comes around, many of us long for the warm, long days of summer. Unlike most of Europe, Portugal doesn’t tend to get many dips in temperature or grey skies in the middle of the winter months. Whilst there are some places in Portugal that see snow, the Atlantic coastline sees plenty of sunshine and blue skies all year round.
The Algarve is
perhaps one of the best areas of Portugal to visit
during the winter, thanks to its location. In November, the average
temperature in the Algarve varies between 16 and 20º, which is still warm
enough to sit by the sea and enjoy a glass of wine or two!
Low Tourist Numbers
The Algarve has
long been a favourite destination for European holidaymakers, but it has been a
bit of a hidden secret until recent years. Now, Porto and Lisbon are must-visit
destinations for many travellers, with many visitors year-round but, during the
summer months, these places are extremely busy.
If you visit during
the winter, then you can expect queues for many of the top visitor attractions to be extremely small
and it is easier to get into many of the top bars and restaurants thanks to
fewer visitors. Whilst the weather might not be exactly what it is in the
summer, you will likely have a much less stressful and crowded getaway.
Save Money
As there are fewer
visitors in the winter, you’ll find that the everyday expenses that you expect
when you go away will be slightly less than they are in the height of summer.
Flights are often much cheaper, train fares are reduced meaning you can go
exploring the inner cities or coastal areas and you’ll find that accommodation
is easier to find between the months of November and March.
Whilst hotel and accommodation prices skyrocket in the summer season, it isn’t unusual to see prices decrease by anything up to 50% in the winter months. This is a perfect time to splash out on something a little more luxurious, especially if you want a couple’s break or are travelling with a group, as often luxury villas Vale do Labo, Vilamoura, and Loule based are much more worthwhile when it comes to pricing in these months.
Enjoy Traditional Dishes
Portuguese isn’t
all that well-known outside of Europe, which considering the magnitude of fresh
ingredients included in many of the dishes, is surprising. With a penchant to
create simple and delicious seafood dishes and great local wine, the cuisine in
Portugal matches the culture – relaxed and enjoyable. Whilst lighter dishes are
more common in the summer months, winter sees more hearty dishes come out for
the slightly cooler months.
Cozido,
which is a type of meat stew, regularly makes an appearance and is served
alongside boiled potatoes and vegetables. Each and every region has one or two
different traditional versions, so it is unlikely that you get the same once
twice – Cozido is a local dish and is unlikely to be found in tourist hotspots.
You can still get all of the same great dishes, such as fresh fish, caldo verde
and pastel de natas, but be sure to give some of the seasonal choices a try
too!
Donegal is the second-largest county with unquestionably rich scenery in Ireland. From the 300-kilometer stretch coastline, intoxicating headlands, high sea cliffs to natural parks, there is a lot to explore from this region in Ireland. If you are planning a trip and wondering what you will be treated to, below are just but a few items to enjoy while in Donegal.
The Malin Head
The
Malin’s head is probably the most northern part of Ireland. This makes it worth
a visit, especially if you have been to the County Cork, which is the
south-western part of Ireland. The site offers exquisite views with a lot of
walking and biking opportunities to challenge your outdoor self.
At
some point in the Malin Head, you will see the words “Eire” written with stones
on the grass. This recent discovery is said to have been engraved during the
Second World War so that the above-flying Germans could know that they were
flying over Ireland, who were neutral during the war. This came after they
accidentally bombed Dublin, thinking it wasn’t part of Ireland.
The Atlantic Drive
Donegal has several stunning beaches, and it is a pity if you don’t get good weather to enjoy them. Among the best beaches is the Portsalon Beach that has a stunning stretch of water with different shades of blue and golden sand. If you need more of the beach view, take an Atlantic drive.
If
you have your own campervan, car or using a tour guided car, you should go for
the Atlantic Drive. This is part of the longest Wild Atlantic Way, which is the
longest coastal road excursion. There are countless beautiful views, and photo
lovers will enjoy this trip here.
Boat ride to Tory Island
Tory island is one of the many remote and intriguing islands in Ireland. Despite the remote nature, it is worth a visit, especially for history enthusiasts. There are a lot of interesting things about this small Island.
With
a population of about 200 people, you will find deeply rooted Irish language
speakers and conservatives who still keep traditional Irish culture. The fact
that a king rules them says a lot about this Island. Therefore, spend at least
one day learning more about Ireland’s culture on this Island.
There
are other interesting things to see during your Donegal trip. Some key centres
that shouldn’t miss in your schedule include;
The Glenveagh Castle
Slieve League Cliffs
The Lough Derg
The Famine Village
The Letterkenny Catherdral
Accommodation in Donegal
Accommodation
is probably one of the major concerns for freebies looking to enjoy their stay
in Donegal. However, there should be no course to worry about. Imagine waking
up to chirping birds, the mouth licking smell of Irish breakfast wafting from
the kitchenette and amazing morning view from the surrounding coastline. This
is just a portion of what you get by checking into Donegal Thatch Cottages. You can book through Airbnb for a bed and
breakfast option. Hosts in the cottages are very welcoming, and you will surely
enjoy your stay here.
Instagram influences holiday choices of more than 10.6 Million Brits
According to a new study, upwards of 10.6 million Brits are said to be shunning more traditional guidebooks and holiday brochures and turning instead to social media for inspiration and making bookings regarding their travel plans.
The research, conducted by villa holiday tour operator Villa Plus, surveyed 1,000 British tourists to determine what factors influence their getaways, and which services they turn to when it’s time to book.
Results showed that despite more than a third of Brits admit to being influenced by friends and family when it comes to the holiday-making process, social media platforms such as Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook, now play a key role in both the way in which Brits browse for holiday inspiration and the method we turn to for making that all-important booking too.
Coming a long way since it’s humble beginnings, platforms such as Instagram are now much more than a way of showcasing your holiday snaps. In fact, advancements in the software mean users can are now no longer restricted to simply browsing their grid for inspiration but can now also buy or book life’s luxuries such as holidays too – and many of the products needed to take away with you as well.
The data mirrored said advancements and the clear generational shift in terms of both travel priorities and the way in which social media is utilised.
For more than a fifth of 25-34 year olds (22.2%), ensuring your vacation destination is “Instagram-worthy” was a main priority, whilst in contrast, more than a quarter of 55-64 year olds prefer to prioritise the experience itself, admitting they would actively attempt to relive their previous holidays time and again.
For some, price is much more appealing than and the perfect Instagram snap. Men were found to be the more frugal of the sexes, as nearly four times more men than women were likely to choose a location based on whether they could source a cheap deal.
The research also revealed which cities are most influenced by the Instagrammability of their vacation spot:
Newcastle claimed the crown, as upwards of 52,000 Geordies believed that an Insta-worthy location was paramount when deciding where to book their holiday.
Despite a fifth of those hailing from Manchester also admitting to being heavily influenced by social media when making choices in relation to location, just 2% stated that they had used the platforms to make a booking.
Similarly, when it came to the booking stage, over a fifth (21%) of 65+ year olds reveal they still prefer more traditional methods, opting to complete these transactions over the phone.
That said, more than 10% of Belfast residents, however, claim to have done so directly through social media.
Insta-worthy dream holiday without having to pack your bags!
Holidays are one of the best ways to tick off those outstanding items on your bucket list. The holiday provides us with the opportunity to do those ‘once in a lifetime’ things that we dream about in our day-to-day, a chance to live those exhilarating experiences and collect those unforgettable memories.
But what if you didn’t have to wait for a big, expensive holiday to a far-flung destination to do all the things on your list? What if you could do those same incredible activities in the UK or Ireland?
Stena Line asked the UK public what they would most want to do on their dream holiday. Here are the top 5:
Surfing
Safari experience
Thermal springs
Whale watching
Skiing
So, how can you have an Insta-worthy dream holiday without having to pack your bags and fly around the world?
1. Surfing
Surfing has (excuse the pun) really made a
splash with holidaymakers over the last decade or so. It’s grown from an
ancient practice in Polynesia to a rebellious sub-culture in California and now
it can be found all over the world.
Surfing is a perfect holiday activity because
it combines a little bit of learning — perfect to keep the brain stimulated
when it might otherwise switch off — with a fun physical challenge and plenty
of time in the sun.
The dream: Hawaii, USA
Though Californian surf culture made the
practice famous in contemporary society, the best surfing can still be found
where it all started. Hawaii is known for its profound surf culture and
world-class waves. Its white beaches and sub-tropical climate make it a surfer’s
dream.
Getting there, however, is not a laid-back
experience. From the UK, it takes at least 17 hours to get to Hawaii, not
including transfer time, which can quickly stack up to nearly an entire day of
flying. And the flights, as you might expect, aren’t cheap. We found that
return flights were £1,244 per person.
Once you’ve landed, you could technically surf
for free (no one owns the ocean, after all), but it’s unlikely that you’ll haul
a surfboard halfway around the world with you.
Instead, you’ll probably want to hire your
gear when you’re there. If you go for, let’s say, five days (you’ve gone all
that way, after all!), you can hire a beginner board for a week for $80
(£61.35). Five nights in a good mid-range hotel in Honolulu will set you back £890.
Oh, and don’t forget: Hawaii is part of the
USA, which means you’ll need to purchase a $14 (£10.55) ESTA to get through
customs.
Altogether,
that clocks in at £2,205.90.
Close to home: Llangennith, Wales
Over the last decade or so, there’s been a marked
rise in the number of people going ‘cold water’ surfing in North America and
Europe.
One of the best places for that? Wales —
specifically, Llangennith, a long beach where surfers can get stuck in to the
Gower, a reef renowned for its waves. The Gower has been called the heartland
of Welsh surfing, offering waves for surfers of all abilities, whether you’re
after those mellow troughs or those gnarly thirty-footers.
Some of the best surfers in the UK refine
their craft in the waves off the shores of Llangennith, so it’s definitely one
for your bucket list.
Unlike Hawaii, you won’t need to worry about
getting flights to Llangennith if you’re in the UK. Surf gear is a little more
expensive than Hawaii — about £80 to buy a beginner board and wetsuit — but you
won’t need to pay for a visa or an ESTA to get there.
Because it’s only a short journey, you could
probably visit Llangennith for a couple of days before heading back, but for
the sake of being fair, let’s say that you’re staying for five days.
Accommodation in Llangennith is around £85 per room for a mid-range hotel so
your hotel costs for the week would come in at about £425.
The sum
total takes you to just £505.00.
Saving:
£1,700.90 (77%)
2. Safari experience
Getting out onto the plains of Africa is the
dream of many a wildlife enthusiast, which is why a safari is at the top of
many people’s bucket lists. They’re often the only opportunity that people have
to see some of the world’s most incredible animals out in the wild, up close,
from gigantic elephants and hippos to lion prides and ferocious crocodiles.
The dream: Maasai Mara, Kenya
No continent does a safari quite like Africa —
its stretching plains and varied wildlife makes it a haven for animal-lovers.
One of the best-known safaris in Africa is the Maasai Mara National Reserve in
Kenya. Maasai Mara shares a common border with the Serengeti and is famous for
its plentiful populations of lions, leopards, cheetahs, zebras and wildebeest.
The problem is that going on a safari in
Maasai Mara is an all-in experience; planning a day trip out onto the plains
isn’t easy to do. The shortest safari package we could find was a 3-day outing
that started at $746 (£564.20) per person. Assuming you would stay an absolute
minimum of 2 nights, that puts accommodation at £500 per room if you want to
stay near Maasai Mara. Cheaper rooms are available in Narok, the nearest town,
but it’s a three-hour drive away.
Getting to Kenya in the first place is fairly
pricey. Return tickets are about £378 per person, but you’ll also need to
factor in getting a visa for entry for $51 (£38.72) and the shots you’ll need
for typhoid and yellow fever (£141.95). That
puts the entire trip at £1,622.87 per person, excluding food and airport
transfers.
Close to home: Birmingham, England
You’d be mistaken in believing that you have
to leave the UK and Ireland to enjoy an engrossing safari experience. The West
Midland Safari Park — located just half an hour or so outside of Birmingham —
offers one of Europe’s best wildlife experiences. Lions? Check. Zebras? Check.
Elephants and rhinos and cheetahs and pretty much everything else you’d spot on
the Serengeti plains? All check. And you can see them all in one day!
Admission, as you might expect, is much
cheaper than booking an African experience. Day passes start from £24 per
person, though you can book a VIP package if you want something more immersive.
Accommodation in Birmingham is agreeable, too, with mid-range hotels starting
at about £43 per room. And since it’s in
the UK, you won’t need to pay anything for flights, visas or vaccines, which
puts the total at just £67.
Saving: £1,555.87 (96%)
3. Thermal springs
Everyone loves a good spa day, but there’s
something magical about the restorative powers of the earth itself. Though
thermal spas have been around for millennia (they were a particularly big hit
with the Romans), they’ve recently had a rapid increase in popularity. Genuine
thermal spas are a rarity, which is why they’re sought after by holidaymakers
who are looking for unique experiences.
The dream: Blue Lagoon, Iceland
The tourism statistics for Iceland’s Blue Lagoon
have benefitted massively from the Instagram generation. It’s one of the most
beautiful places in the world, sporting an azure blue volcanic lake that
contrasts sharply with the stark igneous landscape that surrounds it. For that
reason, it’s become a top destination for modern travellers to go to.
It isn’t cheap, though. Iceland is notoriously
pricey — in fact, it’s cited by many as the most expensive tourist destination in the world,
due to high import costs and taxation on food and alcohol. The Blue Lagoon is
ISK 6,990 (£44.60) for just one hour in the pool, and that’s if you book in
advance. If you want to stay over, the on-site hotel is your only real option,
as the spa is in the middle of nowhere. A stay at the Silica Hotel starts at
ISK 70,400 (£448.83) per night. Add the
flights on top of that — £173 return from the UK — and your total comes to
£666.43.
Close to home: Bath, England
Bath is, in the minds of many, the original
thermal spa town. It’s even named
after the Roman baths. That’s because of the plentiful geothermal springs
underground that allowed Roman settlers to create hot bathhouses, some of which
still stand today.
You can actually enjoy a dip in a genuine
geothermal spa when you visit Bath by going to the Thermae Spa. Admission to
the New Royal Bath is £36 on weekdays, for which you’ll get a two-hour spa
session and access to the open-air rooftop pool and the Minerva Bath, the
largest of the thermal baths. Accommodation
in Bath is about £67 per night, and without flights to worry about, your total
comes to just £103.
Saving:
£563.43 (85%)
4. Whale watching
Whales are incredible creatures. With the
largest of them measuring almost 30 metres long, it’s understanding that the
vast majority of them don’t fit in an aquarium or sea life centre. You have to
go out into the wild to see them for real — and spotting them is one of the top
things that we want to do on holiday.
The dream: Húsavík, Iceland
One of the best spots to see whales in the
world is off the northeast coast of Iceland. The coastal town of Húsavík has
become a hotspot for budding whale-spotters, and as such, there are several
companies that run world-class whale-watching tours out of Skjálfandi Bay on
traditional oak boats.
As mentioned earlier, though, Iceland is
expensive. The three hours you spend on the water will cost you 10,500 ISK
(£66.52) per person, and a night spent in Húsavík will cost you around £100 per
room — and that’s at the low end of the spectrum. Return flights to Akureyri —
the nearest airport to Húsavík — are about £396 from the UK.
That means that even without food costs and
airport transfers — which can be two or three times what you may spend in the
UK — you’ll be spending £565.52 to do a
day of whale watching in Iceland.
Close to home: Cork, Ireland
Did you know that the Irish government
declared the coastal waters of Ireland a whale and dolphin sanctuary during the
early 1990s? Ireland’s policies on the preservation of sea life have turned it
into one of Europe’s top spots for seeing Minke, Fin, Baleen and even Humpback
whales in their natural habitat.
You can go whale watching from West Cork for
just €50 (£42.67) per person for 4 hours out on the water. Accommodation in
Cork is around £87 per night for a mid-range hotel, and getting to Cork from
the UK is easy — you can hop aboard a ferry from just £41 per person for an
overnight stay, which gives you as much as 36 hours in Ireland.
Altogether,
you’ll be spending just £170.67.
Saving:
£415.85 (74%)
5. Skiing
Skiing has a sort of vintage charm about it —
maybe that’s because its popularity grew rapidly in the 50s and 60s when metal
skis made it easy, even fun, for amateurs to ski as well as pros. Since then,
it’s become a top holiday recreation, complete with cosy lodges and alpine
tipples.
The dream: Cervinia, Italy
What skiing hotspot can compete with the
world-famous Matterhorn? It’s instantly recognisable by its pyramid shape and
its looming presence in the Alps, crossing the borders of both Italy and
Switzerland. One of the best ski resorts at the base of the Matterhorn is
Cervinia, Italy, where you can take a lift up to some of the best parts of the
mountain and ski to your heart’s desire.
Flights to Cervinia are very reasonable from
the UK, with return flights coming in at only about £72 off-peak. A day-pass to
the Cervinia resort is €43 (£35.59), with ski hire coming it at £18.87 per day
if you book online. However, accommodation is pretty pricey, probably because
of how remote the hotels are. For two nights, you’ll be looking at about £426
per room.
For argument sake, let’s say you just want to
ski for one full day — that takes your
total to £552.46.
At home: Glenshee, Scotland
Bet you didn’t know there were ski resorts in
the UK! In fact, Glenshee Ski Resort in Scotland sees a great deal of snowfall
throughout the year, and with a few gentler slopes than Cervinia, it’s ideal
for beginners and intermediates.
Admission to the ski resort is a little
cheaper than Cervinia, with a 1-day lift pass coming in at £32 (although if you
just want to hit the beginner slopes, you can get to them for just £20 a day).
Ski hire is £23 a day for skis, boots and poles.
The biggest saving you’ll make is on
accommodation. You can stay at a mid-range hotel in Ballater — about half an
hour’s drive from Glenshee — for about £55 a night, so £110 if we’re going to
match the two nights you’d spend in Cervinia.
That
puts your total at just £165.
Saving:
£387.46 (70%)
The Dream: £5613.18
Home: £947.67
Saving: £4,665.51
83%
A dream holiday from home
If you have plenty of money — and time, too — you might be willing to travel the world to complete your holiday bucket list. For the rest of us, though, the good news is that all the activities we dream about for our perfect holiday are right on our doorstep here in the UK and Ireland.
Here’s to a staycation that exceeds all
expectations!
Best Travel Guides to Destinations Around the World
