Category Archives: Editor’s Picks

Infographic

15 Ways to Overcome Your Fear of Flying [Infographic]

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Even in the sheltered and largely safe world the majority of us live in today, plenty of us suffer from fears and phobias, some of them irrational, others entirely rational.

According to fears.net, some of the top ten phobias of all time include the fear of small spaces (Claustrophobia), a fear of spiders (Arachnophobia) and a fear of heights (Acrophobia).

Rational vs Irrational

Overcoming a fear of something can be difficult, especially with both irrational and rational fears.

A rational fear is one which exists because there is potentially a real danger involved in the action or event. An irrational fear is a fear which exists without this danger existing.

The difficulty of overcoming fears is amplified when the particular fear sits somewhere between the two. One great example of this is a fear of flying.

Fear of Flying

There is no hiding from the fact that throughout history, people have died as a result of a plane crash. This fact makes a fear of flying rational.

However, the frequency of deaths as a result of flying is incredibly small, almost making it irrational.

For example, Fly Fright statistics show that there’s a 1 in 11 million chance of being involved in an aeroplane incident.

They also show that 96% of people survive these accidents. All in all, air travel is by far one of the safest modes of transport in the world.

Despite this, there are still millions of people around the world who suffer from a fear of flying. This fear can really limit your ability to travel, be it for business or pleasure, meaning it could have a massively negative effect on your life.

15 Ways To Overcome Your Fear of Flying

To help those who do struggle with it, silverdoor.co.uk has created this infographic titled ‘15 Ways To Overcome Your Fear of Flying’ which presents lots of handy ways to tackle this phobia.

Whether you genuinely are afraid of flying, or just fancy a little more reassurance, this infographic could be a real help, so take a look for yourself.

15 Ways To Overcome Your Fear Of Flying – An infographic by the team at SilverDoor.co.uk

Editor's Picks, Europe, Sport and Adventure, Travel Planning

Things To Do on a European Football Break

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Fancy a European football break? We bet you’re not alone. With Premier League ticket prices not exactly the easiest on the pocket, lots of football fans are heading to the Continent to enjoy the beautiful game.

It’s not hard to see why. Affordable airfares, reasonable ticket prices and the thrill of Champions League and Europa League action are all encouraging football fanatics to up sticks and enjoy an away day or weekend break across the Channel.

If you’re hankering after some of this action for yourself, we think you’ll love a new guide to the away grounds and cities of European football teams developed by the travel experts at Expedia.

Their European Football Away Games Guide is designed to help footy fans travelling around Europe as they follow their teams in Champions League action. It’s there to help you figure out how to get to an unfamiliar football ground and find your way around a new city, enjoying all that it has to offer in the process.

But hey, it’s not just about the football. The beauty of a European football break is that, as well as soaking up some football artistry, you’ve got a whole city to explore. And when we’re talking about places like Munich, Naples, Madrid and a whole host of other historic cities, there’s a whole world of wonder to discover.

To introduce Expedia’s fantastic interactive guide (take a look, it’s great), we’ve picked out three of Europe’s great footballing cities – Manchester, Barcelona and Munich – and given you a few places to visit that aren’t just to do with the Beautiful Game

Manchester

You might have heard people mention that it rains quite a lot in Manchester. They’re not wrong – it does. Escape the raindrops with a day of culture – blogger Becci Brown recommends immersing yourself in Manchester’s buzzing art scene.

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The Whitworth Art Gallery won Visit England’s gold prize for the Large Visitor Attraction of the Year in 2016, and with 55,000 items in its collection, from historic exhibitions to contemporary commissions, it’s not hard to see why. Manchester Art Gallery, HOME, the Centre for Chinese Contemporary Art, Gallery Oldham and The Lowry are a few of the city’s other artistic highlights.

Barcelona

After all that football you’ll need some food. Food blogger Ben Holbrook says you should head to La Pubilla, in the Gràcia district of the city. Enjoy a starter, one or two main courses, bread and dessert and a few beers for around €25 – not bad, eh?

Image courtesy of www.lapubilladeltaulat.com/
Image courtesy of www.lapubilladeltaulat.com/

Munich

Blogger Samantha Angell says Munich’s Viktualienmarkt is a must-visit. One of the city’s greatest farmer’s markets, it’s home to more than 100 stalls selling German sausage and cheese, beautiful flowers, fresh fruit and veg and more. Perfect for a pre- or post-game snack, be sure to visit it on a trip to this brilliant German city.

viktualienmarkt

Heading off on a football break? Be sure to take Expedia’s resource with you!

Food, Infographic, Wine and Drink

Around The World In 16 Winter Warmers [Infographic]

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There’s no getting around the fact that winter is finally upon us. Once the temperature is cooler and the days become shorter, we find ourselves turning from the pleasures of summer to the comforts which will keep the chill at bay.

As soon as the temperature drops, there is something a lot less appealing about light summer meals. Instead, we replace them with heavy, warming foods like stews, pies and roast dinners.

Hot Drinks

We do the same with our hot drinks. The lemonades and ice teas don’t seem very appealing when the cold arrives, so we turn to hot drinks instead.

Coffee, tea and the occasional hot chocolate become commonplace at work, at home and pretty much everywhere else to give us that welcome fuzzy feeling.

Somewhat surprisingly, despite the coffee revolution which has swept the face of the Earth several times in the last few years, tea is still the most popular beverage according to National Geographic. 

It’s fair to say that despite the obvious variations of coffee and tea, there’s actually not much choice, especially in comparison with refreshing summer drinks.

However, this isn’t entirely true. There are actually many delicious hot drinks from around the world which many of us are missing out on.

Around The World In 16 Winter Warmers

The people at citybaseapartments.com have created a taste bud tingling infographic which offers up a number of tasty alternative from around the world.

It’s called ‘Around The World In 16 Winter Warmers’ and has drinks ranging from Canada to Colombia, India to Ireland and Sweden to South Africa.

This infographic is packed with plenty of drinks you won’t have tried or maybe even heard of. However, you absolutely have to try them!

There’s also plenty that you can spice up for the adults by adding certain alcoholic drinks to give you that extra added cozy feeling on chilly nights. 

Don’t just take our word for it, take a look at the infographic below and go try some of these out yourself!

Around The World In 16 Winter Warmers – An infographic by the team at Citybase Apartments

Infographic

5 Online Travel Scams & How To Avoid Them [Infographic]

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5 Online Travel Scams & How To Avoid Them

For as long as the internet has existed, scammers have been trying to unlawfully take money from unsuspecting users.

Online scams exist in pretty much every industry. So, whether you’re wanting to buy clothing, a car or even booking a holiday, there’s probably a scam loitering in the background.

Everyone will have heard of some of the big online scams in recent years, even if it is hard to believe their success. The Nigerian Prince email scam is almost certainly one of the best documented.

In fact, Yahoo has put together an interesting list of these scams which you can read by clicking here.

Travel Scams

The entire process of booking a holiday has changed dramatically in recent years. Only a few years ago, the majority of us would head down to the local high street and speak to the travel agent.

Now things couldn’t be more different. A trip around the world is simply just a few clicks away and the options we have available are much broader.

Take a look at this interesting article from the Express which suggests the high street travel agent will have totally disappeared in the next five years.

Unfortunately, the ever-expanding nature of the online holiday market means that it makes it slightly harder for casual users to realize the difference between reliable and respected sites and untrustworthy ones.

It is for this reason that it was recently reported on the Mail Online that between 2014 and 2015, British tourists were scared out of £12 million alone.

Infographic

The question is, what should you be on the look for to ensure that you don’t get stung by scammers?

Well, citybaseapartments.com has now put together a helpful infographic with all the information you need to stay scam free when operating online.

It’s called ‘5 Online Travel Scams & How To Avoid Them‘ and you can take a look below.

5 Online Travel Scams & How To Avoid Them – An infographic by the team at Citybase Apartments

Infographic, Wine and Drink

Around The World In 21 Craft Gins [Infographic]

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Around The World In 21 Craft Gins

In the global scheme of things, there seems to be a constant stream of new food and drink trends which tend to go from relative obscurity to gaining international popularity in no time at all.

Let’s begin with the world of food. If you entered almost any restaurant five or ten years ago (especially outside of the United States and ordered pulled pork, you’d end up leaving hungry and empty handed.

However, now you literally can’t avoid it. This really interesting article from The Guardian delves into the growth of pulled pork and suggests its rise in popularity is to do with the “modernisation of barbecue foods in the US around 2008-10.”

It’s not just the world of food which has undergone a number of taste bud tantalizing revolutions in recent years either.

The world of drinks (and in particular alcoholic ones) has also seen a number of recent trends, one great example being craft beer.

Craft Beer Revolution

Craft beer, which also can be traced back to the United States, is defined as beer which is made traditionally by a small brewery and has spread into a global phenomenon.

Initially, the popularity of American craft beer led to it being exported outside of the country.

While this is still the case, countries from every corner of the globe are creating their own, which is only broadening the industry.

Take a look at this post from fortune.com, which provides some staggering statistics about the industry such as the fact that in 2015 the industry posted a double-figure growth for the eighth year in a row.

Craft Gins Infographic

Another drink which is going through somewhat of a global revolution is gin.

Gin has never been one of the more vibrant, classy or exciting spirits on the market,but thanks to the craft gins revolution, perceptions are changing.

Take a look at this great infographic from citybaseapartments.co.uk titled ‘Around The World In 21 Craft Gins’ which showcases some of the most exciting and flavorsome craft gins taking the world by storm.

craft gins

Infographic

How To Shake Hands Around The World [Infographic]

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The handshake: a universal greeting of peace and fraternity, right? Well, yes and no.

While widely believed to have evolved as a gesture to show that the greeter bears no weapons, and used in countries on every continent, the precise format of the handshake in different cultural contexts can be a matter of grave importance. Everything from strength of grip to the order in which you greet your hosts can give subtle hints about where you’re from, can potentially cause offence – or can display both affection and respect for your counterpart’s culture.

In nations as diverse as Canada, Mexico and Morocco, for example, a man should wait for a woman to offer her hand before extending his own, to ensure it is appropriate – while in Thailand, you shouldn’t shake a woman’s hand at all. In Australia, women should likewise make the first move – but as a woman, you shouldn’t try to shake hands with another woman.

In South Korea, a gentle handshake is preferred (one out of five on the firmness scale!) and it is important to greet a group in order of age, starting with the eldest. Supporting your right wrist with your left hand while shaking shows respect. If it sounds a lot to remember, it will soon become second nature, and you’ll recognize that such detailed customs raise one’s awareness of the beauty and fragility of our togetherness to a special level.

In France, the handshake is considered too formal when meeting family and close friends, while over the border the Swiss will shake hands with anyone but reserve the use of first names for their nearest and dearest. A simple train ride across Europe can become fraught with social complexities! But to get a better idea of what is appropriate and where, do check out this infographic before you go – it’s indispensable when overseas and keen to make a good first impression.

a-global-guide-to-handshakes

Infographic

What Country Best Fits Your Manners? [Infographic]

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If you’re a big tipper, you could be big in South Africa. If you’re generous with your hugs, you’ll likely be embraced by the people of Brazil and Spain. But if you wear your Sunday best to business meetings, you’re going to look out of place in Ireland. Across the world, the gestures and behaviors that make up our day-to-day life vary in subtle but important ways that can help us to accustom ourselves to the areas we visit, and on occasion even prevent us getting in trouble. Conversely, if you’re sick of the tardiness of your compatriots or want to visit somewhere that you’ll actually be given some personal space for a change, it’s comforting to know there are certain areas that we might be able to fit in with our own personal preferences.

Of course, it’s not a failsafe approach, and often the same kind of behavior may mean different things or have a different heritage in different countries. Did you know, for example, that far from a gesture of solidarity, tipping in America dates back to the country’s post-Civil War bourgeoisie, who travelled to Europe and picked up the custom like a souvenir to impress and belittle their less well-off compatriots? Or that in Singapore, tipping really means something – that it’s rare, but used when the service really demands applause?

Below is a roadmap for regional manners: this flowchart from Expedia will help you find the place that you’ll fit in best. Whether it’s eating with your right hand only in Indonesia or politely leaving gifts unopened until the party’s over in Colombia, you’ll be surprised how many of our basic manners are considered alien by those from other places. It’s a great opportunity to come together and celebrate the wild and varied differences that make us human.

what-country-fits-your-manners

 

Food, Infographic

How the World Serves Eggs [Infographic]

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Eggs are pretty weird when you think about them too hard. But they are also delicious, convenient, and highly versatile – as is demonstrated by the regional variations on show around the world. If you’re planning to travel, and want to know what the egg world has in store for you, or if you just want to add a bit of exoticism to your weekend brunch, you can do a lot worse than making a trip to the supermarket with a list of ingredients for some of our international neighbours’ signature yolk n’ albumen dishes.

The North African ‘shakshuka’, for example is a real humdinger. Fried and garnished with spices and salty feta, red peppers and tomato give it that extra kick. This one could well be considered a kill-or-cure hangover remedy. The Chinese have a more mellow alternative: egg flower soup is a comforting treat, with peas and mushrooms adding body to the chicken-based broth. Soy and rice wine ensure the Asian spin still delivers with every mouthful.

The Scotch Egg, which stretches way beyond Scotland to the whole of the British Isles, is something of a reliable classic. A boiled egg is wrapped in meat and breadcrumbs, making for a substantial picnic side-dish with no nonsense. Contrast this with the Philippines, where their notorious ‘balut’ consists of a boiled, fertilized duck egg eaten straight from the shell, and you’ll start to believe there’s little you can’t learn about the world through the consumption of regional egg specialities.

After all that savoury weirdness, though, you’ll want to sweeten your palette – and there’s no need to hold back on the egg mission now. French meringue is a crunchy dessert that hits you right in the sweet tooth, and is made from just the egg white and sugar. Combine it with cream and fruit, though, and it becomes a complex of flavour and texture that feels quite Gallic, and quite decadent.

If you’re still not overdosed on eggs, check out the infographic below that explores some of the other weird and wonderful ways that different cultures deal with the small oval ones. Always buy free range, but other than that – perhaps don’t think too hard about where they come from.

how-the-world-serves-eggs

Image sources: Featured image / Infographic

Europe, Infographic

Saying Hello In Each of Europe’s Many Languages [Infographic]

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When we are planning on heading abroad for a short break or even a couple of months travelling, there are certain essentials that we must not forget.

First of all, it is worth working out whether you’ll need to apply for any kind of visa to enter the country or countries you plan on visiting.

Travel Essentials

Visa HQ is a very helpful site which lists the 123 countries which warrant a visa for any UK visitors which is well worth looking at before booking your flights anywhere.

Next up, you’ll want to consider the currency of the country or countries you’re visiting. If you’re heading to Europe it is easy to assume everyone uses the Euro, however, this is far from the truth. Take a look at this list on the European Union site for the full fun down.

Once you have your currency sorted, there’s lots of smaller things which aren’t vital to your stay, but will no doubt make a difference.

Things like plug adapters, correct clothing, sun cream won’t necessarily destroy your holiday if you forget them, but will certainly make things a lot more frustrating and expensive.

Another thing which we should all feel is important when travelling abroad is accepting the culture we are about to experience.

Travel of all about stepping outside the comfort of your daily norms and embracing another culture, from its food to its art, its music to the languages spoken.

Infographic

Far too many English speakers have a sense of entitlement and get a little lazy when heading abroad, relying on the locals to speak a little English.

Despite being the third most popular language in the world, there are plenty of people who don’t speak it. For this reason, we should all perhaps make a little effort to learn a few words or phrases before setting off on holiday.

City Base Apartments have put together a handy infographic to help you on your way. Titled ‘Saying Hello In Each of Europe’s Many Languages’ it lists all of the languages and even gives the correct language for countries which share a common tongue.

Take a look below and get your language crash course started!

Saying Hello In Each Of Europe’s Many Languages

Asia, Australia, Editor's Picks, Luxury Travel

Luxury Around the World

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Len Rutledge

Luxury and experiential travel are changing the travel industry and the way many people think about travel. While trips to see grandma will always occur, family trips today are often camping safaris through Africa or visits to remote lodges in Bhutan.

Today’s travellers are braver than ever and are prepared to travel well off the beaten track. They are looking for something unique and individual.  As new destinations emerge, traditional tourist hotspots and resorts have to rethink their approach in order to stay relevant.

I have just returned from Luxperience, an unmissable annual get-together for all those associated with the high-end travel industry. It was a meeting which exposed all the newest and best operators, and showed where this growing part of the industry is heading.

I have selected five products which show the level of luxury and diversity that is now available to world travellers. Any of them would be an experience of a lifetime for most people.

Deccan Odyssey

This is a luxury train in India comprising 21 luxuriously appointed coaches; 11 are to accommodate guests and the rest are used for different purposes such as dining, lounge, conference car and health spa. All the cabins of Deccan Odyssey are fully equipped with air-conditioning, internet connectivity, and personalized guest amenities that make sure that your journey is a comfortable and memorable one. There are two restaurant cars available which serve Indian, continental and oriental delicacies.

deccan

There are six itineraries which travel to a UNESCO World Heritage Site, an excellent vineyard, palatial residences, sun-kissed beaches, magical cities, and tranquil backwaters. All is done with the luxury and pomp that only India can muster. Truly, this is the journey of a lifetime.

Over the Top

This New Zealand helicopter company based in Queenstown provides more than just a helicopter ride. You can visit alpine glaciers and remote lakes, for hiking, boating, extreme golfing, winery visits, heliskiing or fly fishing. For guests wanting an interaction with some distinctive New Zealand characters, you can fly with eco-guides, chefs, artists – genuine New Zealanders who delight in making your stay a once in a lifetime experience.

over-the-top-golf-tee

One activity that is gaining in popularity is Over the Top Golf. This provides access to New Zealand’s most picturesque golf hole. Nestled at 4500 feet in the New Zealand alps this par 3 hole overlooking Queenstown has four tee boxes so you can attempt your hole in one. Players have to fly in, drive, chip and putt out on the top.

The Racha

This deluxe island hideaway in Thailand is set on a pristine beach on Racha Island 18 km south of Phuket. The resort features 85 luxurious villas and strives to be recognized as a leader in responsible and environmentally sustainable tourism. The island is known for its natural beauty and for its excellent corals and marine life. It is also a wonderful place for relaxation and for doing nothing.

lighthouse-pool

Many rooms have a large living area and a spacious private terrace. Each villa is superbly designed and features a luxurious bathroom and a rain-shower outside. The Earth Cafe is a contemporary chic international café serving Western and Thai food in air-conditioned comfort or on the terrace. Sunset Beach is a casual restaurant serving local specialties and snacks for lunch and fresh barbequed seafood and steaks for dinner right next to the beach. Firegrill is a fine dining restaurant offering Mediterranean cuisine.

R.M. Williams Tour

R.M.Williams was an Australian hero who did much to put the Australian Outback on the map. His famous boots became a symbol of toughness and style which continues to this day. The Tailor, in conjunction with R.M.Williams, has designed the ultimate tribute to RM Williams. In RM’s Footsteps is a 4-day journey which traces his personal history, telling the story of how he created the famous leather boots now sold around the world.

This amazing trip offers guests a rare opportunity to explore the legend of RM Williams by visiting several magnificent Outback destinations, such as the Flinders Ranges and Lake Eyre, enjoying traditional country hospitality and eating delicious regional cuisine. Guests travel in ultimate luxury aboard a Swiss-built Pilatus PC12 aircraft.

nilpena-station-with-the-flinders-ranges-behind

The trip begins in Adelaide with a private tour of the RM Williams workshop, factory, and museum, plus a chance to be fitted with your own boots, clothing and other bush apparel. You will receive a complimentary pair of Craftsman Boots. Another highlight is a visit to the historic Nilpena Station, a tour of the nearby red desert dunes, and a rare visit to the heritage listed Ediacara fossils made famous by the likes of Sir David Attenborough.

The Strand Cruise

On a languid journey along the Ayeyarwady River, the new luxurious Strand Cruise reveals the core of Burma in exceptional comfort. Cruise itineraries include 4 nights from Bagan to Mandalay and 3 nights from Mandalay to Bagan. While cruising you can clear your mind with a rejuvenating massage, or relax by the swimming pool. Enjoy the magnificent sunset from the upper deck while the sommelier delights you with a wide variety of wines. At dinner, the Chef will take you on a journey through refined cuisine.

slide-strand-cruise-b

Pampering and relaxation are the goals of the spa. You can heighten the experience with a massage in either an individual room or share the experience in our double room. The foot reflexology station will leave you ready to take on a new day of exploration and discoveries. The fitness room comes complete with treadmills, weights, and other gym equipment; everything needed for an invigorating workout.

Excursions allow you to explore the royal cities of Mingun, Amarapura, and Ava by horse-drawn cart; take in landmarks such as the U Bein bridge; and marvel at the enduring beauty of the country’s innumerable temples and monasteries.

Further information:

Deccan Odyssey: http://www.deccan-odyssey-india.com/

Over the Top: http://www.flynz.co.nz/

The Racha: http://www.theracha.com/new/index.htm

R.M.Williams Tour: http://www.thetailor.com.au/rmwilliams/

The Strand Cruise: http://www.thestrandcruise.com/

www.LenRutledge.com