Posts by : Izy Berry

When the sun’s up, okay, especially when it’s not, it’s very tempting to spend some quality time at the beach. Whether you’re hitting the beach in your area or you’re flying to someplace where there’s sun, it is important that you map out your trip first.

So that you ensure you have the perfect beach holidays, follow these simple tips:

Pack light

You’re going to the beach. What’s in the beach aside from the sand, the sun, and the sparkling blue sea? It’s relaxation. How can you relax when you’re carrying luggage that weighs a ton? Pack only the essentials. Make a list of all the things that you think you need, review the list, and crush out some items after careful deliberation.

Pack smart

What are the “beach essentials”? Your swimwear is one. Your picnic basket is another. But one important thing that you must never forget to bring is plain water. Sure, you can bring soda and other flavoured drinks, but plain water is the best hydrate to replenish your body with after the long exposure to the sun.

Important items: sunscreen, lip balm, sun hat, beach umbrella, mat or blanket, OTC medicine, moisturizer, beach toys, extra clothes that are light, sunglasses, book or magazine, extra money, and of course, a picnic basket

Easy, fuss-free food

No beach holiday is ever complete without food. You also need to ‘pack smart’ in choosing the menu for your picnic basket. Rule number one is not to bring messy food – food with sauces and soups. Easy food such as fish n’ chips, fried chicken, sandwiches, or any finger food, is the best option. If you insist to bring ‘messier’ food along, make sure that you pack them in tight containers. Also bring fruits and you can slice them in fun, tidbits sizes. Make sure that you pack them in good containers, too, so that won’t shrivel up.

Sunscreen

You might want to get a tan but you don’t want to get skin cancer. So it is best if you bring sunscreen instead of tanning oil. Sunscreen does not hinder your skin from getting tanned, but it gives you UVA and UVB protection, which is important. Even if the tanning oil has an SPF label, it is still oil based, which basically means that it is a dangerous product to rub yourself as you’ll probably still get burned which can lead to skin cancer.

Make a bonfire

It’s the perfect end to your day at the beach. Make a bonfire as the night air slowly creeps in. Huddle together with your friends and share stories.

I wont blame you if you haven’t heard of Bodrum, it is after all a fairly small city in Turkey. By the end of this post you’ll be ready to pack your bags to this dynamic holiday destination that was awarded TripAdvisors Traveller’s choice award in 2013. In Bodrum there are castles, the Museum of Underwater Archeology, Pedasa Antique City, and, of course, gorgeous beaches. This makes Bodrum a well rounded holiday destination where you can easily spend a few days and want to linger a little longer. Getting to Bodrum is fairly easy, you can get cheap flights with flythomascook – so what are you waiting for? Get inspired and then start planning your holiday adventure to Bodrum, Turkey.

Castle of St. Peter:

Who doesn’t love a good castle? They are rich with history and are frankly very impressive. Castle of St. Peters is a pretty imposing structure that has made itself the feature of Bodrum. The castle itself is very beautiful and it has great views overlooking the sea. Both kids and adults alike are fascinated by this very historic castle. Make sure you set aside a few hours to walk around the castle and to enjoy the grounds.

Museum of Underwater Archeology:

This museum is actually located inside the castle, making for a special excuse to visit it. There’s a lot of great explanations and you can also rent an audio guide if you want. There’s even half of a ship wreck inside, which is literally half a ship wreck picked up from the ocean floor. There’s a lot of creative lighting that helps create a very special atmosphere inside this museum. If you’re a lover of history and art, you can easily spend half a day here.

Pedasa Antique City:

These  ancient ruins are quite small, but there is a wonderful view of the bay here. On top of that, many tourists don’t make the venture out here so it is quite peaceful and relaxing. It is a little hike, so be warned but it is relatively easy to get to. Pedasa is located just north of the city. Catch a dolmus from Bodrum Otogar to Konacik and you can start your walk from there.

Bitez Beach:

This beach is a lovely beach with light sand and great restaurants scattered along the edge. It is a relatively peaceful beach that doesn’t get nearly as much attention as it should from other tourists, but that’s a good thing. Take a towel, some sun glasses and sunscreen and you can spend the day lounging in paradise.

Bodrum has a lot to offer whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, or a family holiday with kids.

Studying in a foreign country is a great experience that will stay with you for a life time. However, the road doesn’t always run smoothly as you have to adapt to a whole host of new customs that are…well…foreign to you.

We thought we’d put together a list of some of the main perils that international students face as a mark of solidarity, and to show all you locals just how complex life can be.

1. Thinking in one language and speaking in another

If only someone could just translate your thoughts. Actually…scrap that.

2. Having to do algebra every time you want to transfer money through your different bank accounts

High five to the inventor of PayPal, but not so much to the person who thought charging to send money would be a good idea.

3. Getting funny looks when you use a word embarrassingly wrong

So ‘pants’ means something slightly different in America and the UK? Oops…

4. If you lose your adaptor you risk wet, frizzy hair

So don’t ever make the mistake of being a nice person by lending your adaptors to your international friends, either.

5. Not physically being able to process how many sinks in Britain have a separate tap for cold and hot water

And wondering if it’s acceptable to request just one in your student accommodation, and feel like high fiving companies like Urbanest that feature them in their London student flats.

6. Dreaming in a variety of different languages

And therefore waking up just as confused as you were before you went to sleep.

7. Loving trying the new food of your new country, but secretly craving your favourite goodies from back home

If only the local corner shop had a special shelf especially for you.

8. When Skype freezes and you’re stuck on a not-so-attractive pose

And finishing each session with ‘so next time, my time or yours?’.

9. Attempting to remember that something perfectly normal in your country is seen as really rude/strange in the new country

Fancy brushing up on your British etiquette? Check these tips out.

10. Having to take a loan out every time you want to call home

And dying a little inside each time your phone bill arrives at the end of the month.

11. Taking about half an hour to discover what shoe/clothes size you are when buying something new

Ok so 36 is a 4…or something…right?

12. Going to a restaurant with friends that serves your home cuisine and the look on their faces when you pronounce the food correctly

You’ve never seen anyone so impressed every time you say ‘pan au chocolat’ before. It’s almost as if you’re French or something.

13. Looking the wrong way when crossing the road

And secretly being stupidly grateful when it says ‘Look Left’ or ‘Look Right’ on the ground.

14. Trying to get the hang of different measurements, times and temperatures

So is that Celsius, Fahrenheit, miles, kilometres or millilitres? We don’t know either, but this conversion app might help.

In an ideal world, you’d never have to make a travel insurance claim. Unfortunately I’ve had to make a few claims during my travels. From when I was stabbed, right through to when I accidentally smashed my laptop screen. There’s a few things you can do to avoid problems with your travel insurance and then to protect yourself when things do go wrong. Here are my top tips for ensuring your trip goes smoothly when it’s not going smoothly:

1) Get Legal Advice from a Compensation Lawyer
I had an issue with my travel insurance company refusing me fly me home. Basically what happened was there was a devastating earthquake in my home town which cut off power and phones to the city. A family member was fatally injured during the quake and I couldn’t easily commit to my family. My insurance company was not prepared to cover my costs home because they didn’t feel that the specific family member was “close enough” to justify covering the costs of me coming home. Thankfully, I consulted a lawyer and they looked over my clause – they found a clause where I was eligible to fly home at their expense if there was any unforeseen circumstance that required me to be home, which was a huge relief after such a tragedy.

2) Check Your Policy
I’ve heard far too many people who have taken out travel insurance, and then go and participate in activities that aren’t covered. You need to ensure that you get travel insurance that is appropriate for your needs. For example, if you’re going to participate in sports such as skiing, rock climbing, bungy jumping etc you need to ensure that your policy covers these things. If something was to go wrong and your policy didn’t provide coverage, then that’s a really expensive and potentially serious mistake.

3) Make Sure You Get it:
There’s nothing worse than hearing a story about someone who’s on holiday and an accident has happened. The story only gets much worse when you read that the person didn’t have travel insurance and are forced to foot a really huge bill – something like that could cripple you and your family financially. Or even worse – you may be unable to pay so treatment would stop. Getting travel insurance ensures that you are protected if anything goes wrong and if the worst was to happen, your family wouldn’t be left with a crippling bill.

With spring just around the corner, the focus for many people naturally turns to where they’re going to travel to next. And, pretty much every travel company and industry commentator has a prediction about where we’ll all be heading. Here are just some of the destinations and experiences which could be on your travel compass this year:

All roads lead to Rio (and nearby)

Rio de Janeiro http://www.flickr.com/photos/62242291@N04/6054862618/

Much of the world’s attention is turned towards Rio at the moment with the impending World Cup and the Olympic Games. And, with Brazil’s prices expected to rise because of these huge sporting events, other Latin American destinations are set to bask in a little reflected glory. Uruguay, Nicaragua and Peru are all set for increased visitor numbers. You could pick up original art and eat in one of the many parillas, or steak restaurants, in Uruguay’s Mercado del Puerto or head to the tropical Pearl Keys island chain in Nicaragua.

 The best of British food

North Devon Foodfest http://www.flickr.com/photos/northdevonfarmer/8122783450/

A VisitEngland survey found that food is becoming an increasingly important part of our travels. Hotels and locations which focus on gastronomic delights are set to gain in popularity. Devon, in south west England, is renowned for its fresh produce, with fresh bread, cheese, meat and seafood on offer at fairs and markets throughout the year, including the North Devon Foodfest, which usually takes place in October. Opting to stay in self catering accommodation like one of Parkdean’s Ruda Park lodges means you can cook up all these delicious goodies in your own kitchen, before enjoying them on the verandah. Or you could take a picnic hamper and spread your blanket on the golden sands of Croyde Bay.

 Honoring the fallen

Flanders Fields http://www.flickr.com/photos/janheuninck/5416776332/

With the centenary of the First World War falling this year, hundreds of thousands of people are expected to mark the sombre occasion by heading to famous battlefields in Northern France and Belgium. To remember the fallen, you could visit the In Flanders Fields Museum in Ypres which has invested in a new interactive experience which poignantly sets out the stories of individual soldiers. The Memorial Museum of Passchendaele 1917, in Zonnebeke, has also added new displays and there’s an outdoor trench reconstruction which gives an idea of conditions on the frontline.

 Taking to the rivers

Philae temple http://www.flickr.com/photos/allan_harris/3162278435/

While sea cruising may be seen as the preserve of the older generation, river cruising is set to come into its own during spring and summer. New river cruise lines have launched and fleets have expanded to cope with the expected demand. Another centenary due to be marked this year is the opening of the Panama Canal so you could choose to cruise the world’s most famous canal. Or you could travel down the Nile to see Egypt’s famous sites, take a Yangtze cruise through China’s spectacular Three Gorges or sail between Siem Reap and Ho Chi Minh City on the Mekong. A river cruise can give you a view of a destination which is completely unique.

 Get us to the Greek

Yialos, http://www.flickr.com/photos/symivisitor/2989201356/

Greece may have had its fair share of financial woes, like so many other countries across the world, but it seems visitors are now starting to flock back, with numbers from Britain alone predicted to be up by 11%. And, given there are so many stunning destinations to choose from on the mainland and the islands, you’re sure to find a part of Greece that you fall in love with. You could follow in the footsteps of the cast of Mamma Mia and head to Skiathos or Skopelos, although since the movie was released in 2008, it’s become harder and harder to find your own piece of paradise there. Instead, you could choose to get completely off the beaten track, heading to Yialos on Lefkada, which is practically deserted apart from in high season, or to Nas on the north-west coast of Ikaria, which has quirky rock formations and a tiny pebble and sand beach which you will probably have to yourself.

Whether you choose to follow the trends or make your own, there are a world of adventures just waiting to happen and destinations just waiting to be discovered.

The city of Milan has been an important cultural centre for over two millennia. Founded by the Celts around 400 BC, this thriving metropolis now has well over one million people residing in its city limits and another four million throughout its metropolitan area. Milan is known as a hot spot of fashion, trade, IT, politics and architecture. Stunning buildings, cathedrals and skyscrapers mark Milan’s skyline with styles that range from neoclassical to modern. It is, without a doubt, an architecture-lover’s paradise.

If you’re looking to book a stay in Milan on your next holiday, don’t just do so for the food and the shopping. The culture of this Italian city is alive and kicking in its fabulous buildings. Here are a handful of Milan’s more noteworthy structures to explore the next time you venture into Milan.

Photo Credit: Jose Luis Ogea on Flickr

Castello Sforzesco

This impressive structure was once the residence and ruling seat of Milan’s most powerful family, but these days it is filled with museums and art galleries. A castle whose construction started back in the 14th century, the Castello Sforzesco has seen generations of modifications and an ongoing series of construction that only relatively recently ended. One of its most impressive interior pieces is the ceiling of the Salla Delle Asse, which was painted by none other than Leonardo de Vinci. In 1943, the castle suffered significant damage due to allied bombing, but it was rebuilt. Considering the centuries it has survived and the many facelifts it has undergone, the Castello Sforzesco looks remarkably similar to its 14th century self.

Duomo di Milano

The fourth largest cathedral in the world, the Duomo di Milano is situated right in the heart of Milan. A classic and impressive example of Gothic architecture that began back in the 14th century, construction on this monolithic structure was only completed in the 19th century during Napoleon’s reign. It has over 2000 statues, 96 gargoyles and 135 spires — the tallest of which are over 180 meters from the ground. One of the city’s most popular tourist attractions, this cathedral has taken part in Milan’s most important celebrations, events and religious ceremonies for over six centuries.

Photo Credit: h s a on Flickr

Basilica of Sant’ Ambrogio

Saint Ambrose oversaw the construction of this basilica back in the 4th century, and it is one of the oldest structures in Milan. The original building was called Basilica Martyrum, due to the number of martyrs in the area during the Roman persecution of the Christians. In the 11th century, the basilica was given a facelift whose Roman appearance still marks its exterior. Filled with fascinating medieval art and sarcophagi, the basilica of Saint Ambrose also has an impressive atrium in its centre that is almost as large as the structure itself.

Torre Velasca

Built in 1954 through a collaboration of four different architects, Torre Velasca is a 100-meter-tall, modern building that resembles something of a Lombardi medieval fortress’ defence tower. Narrower on the ground than it is at the top, the skyscraper mushrooms out as it nears its tallest point, which satisfies the need to conserve space at Milan’s ground level, while making more use of the space available in the sky.

Photo Credit: thomas lefere on Flickr

Pirelli Tower

Built in 1950 on the site of the city’s first factory, the Pirelli Tower is a 32-story skyscraper whose base is 1900 square meters. It has a structural skeleton, tapered sides and curtain wall facades, and it was one of the first skyscrapers in the world to forego the more traditional block form. Until recently, it was the tallest building in Milan, and it has inspired other designs, including the Pan Am Building in New York City and the Alpha Tower in Birmingham, England.

Palazzo Reale

Known previously as Royal Ducal, this palace was built by Luigi Vanvitelli in the 18th century. Famous Italian artists designed its interiors, and it is without a doubt, a stunning example of neoclassical architecture and style. Once a political centre for Milan, it is now a cultural one, housing exhibits of modern and contemporary art, as well as being the site for many fashion and design shows.

Few cities have architecture that spans the amount of time and range of styles that Milan does. From the days of Rome’s prominence through medieval times and modern ones, Milan is a city whose buildings house its history and culture — like time capsules along the city’s skyline.

About the Author: Jessica Nair is a contributing writer and travel agent.

Turkey, an intoxicating mixture of eastern and western culture, draws in millions of tourists each year, all marvelling at the country’s unique culture. You can only truly appreciate the wonders of Turkey by going there and experiencing them yourself. But with the tourism industry so oversaturated, hitting Istanbul’s busy streets can seem like an unappealing prospect.

Fortunately, there are ways to get around the swarms of tourists that descend on Turkey each year. You could always splash out for an all-inclusive holiday. For instance, you could visit Turkey with Club Med and not worry about the crowds. While you do so, be sure to check the less-visited sights of this fascinating country.

GitoYaylası

If Istanbul has become too crowded for your liking, you could always consider an escape to GitoYaylası, a hidden plateau located in the Kackar Mountains. It’s not easily accessible, but if you’re game for an adventure, it’s definitely worth the trip. GitoYaylası will give you the most stunning side of rural Turkey.

It’s really out of the way – you need to take a flight to Trabzon and then drive for an hour to Rize before driving for another two hours. It’s ideal for budding photographers or camping enthusiasts.

Photo Credit: Jean Paul Peters

Polonezköy

Polonezköy is just on the outskirts of Istanbul, an hour’s drive away. Formerly known as Adampol, it’s a small Polish village that boasts some strange architecture, along with some equally strange history. It was the home of Polish refugees who fled their homeland in the 1840s.

The buildings are still decorated with Polish features, which really stand out in their Turkish surroundings. There are some descendants of the refugees still present, albeit numbering less than a hundred.

Lake Van

Not many people have heard of Lake Van, an alkaline inland sea that has been untouched by the passage of time and development. Expect mountainous peaks and loads of gorgeous, historic buildings, like the Armenian cathedral on Akdamar Island. You can visit the island by boat.

There is also a castle high on the hill on the opposite side – ideal to visit if you fancy feasting on some sumptuous views of the lake. Before you leave, make sure you drop in at one of the breakfast halls, famous in the region for local cheese and honey.

Photo Credit: Mustafa Görke Aksu

Mount Nemrud

Out of all the Turkish mountain ranges to visit, Mount Nemrud is the most special. Giant statues of ancient gods surround the mountaintop and archaeologists claim that the site was a tomb for a member of royalty in the 1st century BC. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but doesn’t receive as many visitors as one would expect.

Don’t ever be put off by a visit to Turkey just because you think it’s an overcrowded place. The country has a vast amount to offer, it’s just a matter of finding the sights that are a little out of the way and off the beaten track.

To visit Lanzarote is to experience nature in all its overwhelming majesty, from perfect stretches of bright white beach, to the otherworldly volcanic rock formations left behind from the island’s explosive past. It’s a hugely popular travel destination and it’s not difficult to see why; Lanzarote offers everything you need for a memorable time away.

It’s worth taking some time to familiarise yourself with the sights and pleasures Lanzarote has available, to be sure you don’t inadvertently miss something. If you’re still on the fence about whether to make this remarkable island your next travel destination, an overview of its main attractions should convince you. The prices are appealing too — if you hunt around, you can find some really cheap holidays to Lanzarote.

Credits to: Luc.Viatour on Flickr

Natural features

Lanzarote is an island of contrasts, from lush green vegetation to arid black rock. Its dry climate and unique geological terrain mean it has been registered as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, while the year-round warm weather mean that the island is perfect for relaxing on the beach and taking in some sunshine to the sound of gently lapping waves.

Head inland to find the sparse, Martian-like landscapes created by the island’s volcanic past. It is here you can discover some incredible geology and take in many fascinating views. Check out the Timanfaya National Park, with vast stretches of lava rock. Organised tours are available and probably represent the best way to see the extinct volcanoes.

Sights and activities

The late artist César Manrique was one of Lanzarote’s most famous residents and the attractions that he built can be found in the north-east of the island. These include his studio-home in Taro de Tahiche and the settlement in Haría, surrounded by swaying palm trees. These architectural creations are as eye-catching as the natural rock formations.

Credits to: Luc.Viatour on Flickr

Elsewhere there are some outstanding sports facilities to enjoy, whatever your game, and plenty of activities to have fun with off the coast, including surfing and windsurfing. Cycling is also popular in Lanzarote, while the vineyard belt of La Geria, on the road’s central island is definitely worth a visit for the wine connoisseurs among you.

Where to go

The capital city of Lanzarote is Arrecife, where you’ll find a bustling and friendly welcome. The main resort of Puerto del Carmen is nearby, offering holidaymakers a charming promenade and an appealing line of beaches and bays. If you want some nightlife and shopping to go with your sunbathing, then this is the place to go.

Head in the other direction to find Costa Teguise, a more laid-back and chilled-out alternative. If you have a family in tow, then Playa Blanca is one of the best spots to head for and is a touch warmer, though there’s little in the way of a town centre.

Lanzarote provides a refreshingly original spot for a holiday — high-rise buildings and billboard advertisements are banned — and despite the island’s small size (37 miles long by 12 miles wide) there’s still plenty to do if you want to keep busy. It’s certainly a trip that you won’t regret taking.