Home Articles Posted by Izy Berry (Page 84)
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Most affordable coastal locations to buy a holiday home
Oh we do like to live beside the seaside! Emoov.co.uk have taken it upon them to look at a few beautiful affordable homes near coastal locations and are showing them to you.
As you can imagine, a property in areas located near the sea can be very costly. Places such as Salcombe in Devon and The Sandbanks in Dorset have produced some very expensive homes and have created a reputation for the famous to reside there. The prices are over 3 times the national average; even a buying a beach hut at Sandbanks can cost as much as £100,000.
Emoov.co.uk are here to help, in order to find a seaside property at an acceptable price they have selected alternative housing for you to have a look at.
Bude – Cornwall
Cornwall is a renowned seaside holiday destination, with buyers from all over the world its beautiful landscape leaves people feeling full of awe.
With a comfortable beach and excellent location, Bude offers housing around £250,000, which is very reasonable compared to other seaside locations, although it is not known at present but very soon Bude will become the new Padstow and property prices will rise at the location, so getting your offer in now would be a very clever decision .
Close to Bude is Widemouth Bay, another kooky seaside location which has many cafes and restaurant’s to offer. Again like Bude its beautiful scenery and beaches are perfect for long walks with the dogs, in this case Widemouth could be the best option for you.
Average Widemouth House Price: £254,177
Price change in the past 2 years: 7.16%
Weymouth – South
Many know how expensive it is to live along the south coast of England, but in the little town of Weymouth that is situated between Dorset’s oldest coastlines, you will find affordable holiday homes.
The houses here is a little more expensive than national average but are far less expensive than houses in places such as The sandbanks which is less than an hours drive away. Furthermore the scenic landscape is far more tranquil than the busy locations and offers such profound views of beauty from Weymouth bay.
The joining Isle of Portland is another perfect area for a seaside home. This area co-hosted the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic with Weymouth Bay. This offers up a tourist attraction and keeps the location bustling with people.
Average Weymouth House Price: £229,906
Price change in the past 2 years: 6.62%
Westcliffe-on-Sea – East
Essex believe it or not has become a popular destination for people looking for places which aren’t to far off from the capital but also has the option of being near the sea, places near here used to be seaside hotspots for many yet today the location has become a lot less appealing.
Another area situation between Essex and leigh is Westcliffe on sea. It is very close to Southends attractions if you are looking for a place with bright lights and exciting things to do, its average housing price is around £224,000 which is more expensive than usual but a lot cheaper than buying in the capital
Average Westcliffe-on-Sea House Price: £223,796
Price change in the past 2 years: 14.71%
Colwyn Bay – Wales
Wales itself is very beautiful part of the country and Conlywn Bay situated in the north coast is perfect for a holiday get away. With its pretty gardens, authentic town and scenic walking routes there’s nothing you could not like about this seaside town. There is a number of activities for the family to get involved in. such as a trip to the Welsh Mountain Zoo, or maybe a trip to the Port Eijias water sports centre.
Colwyn bay offers housing at roughly around £170,000 which is absolutely remarkable compared to seaside homes down south, its even cheaper than national average homes! Right now is the time to buy as in the last six months the asking prices have dramatically dropped.
Average Colwyn bay House Price: £173,094
Price change in the past 2 years: 9.82%%
Bridlington – North East
If you are looking for a place that is good for your money then Bridlington may be the place for you, although it doesn’t scream ‘holiday home’ it does actually have something to offer
Just a bit off from Scarborough situates Bridlington; it’s a less busy location that can be great for some peace and quiet, even in the summer holidays. It is perfect for large families with small children. There is something for everyone, as they would say. Its seaside attractions, large beaches and bustling town can bring a very warm feel to the area. People for comfortable.
Average Bridlington House Price: £134,069
Price change in the past 2 years: 8.64%
Information by Leading UK Online estate agent Emoov.co.uk
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Cycling 160km Across 6 Islands in Japan
I am Jacob Laukaitis, a 21 year old digital nomad, who’s already been to more than 30 countries in the last 2 years. I enjoy capturing moments from my travels and share them with the world. Here’s my newest one – 160km long bike ride across 6 islands in Japan.
The route that I took is called Shimanami Kaido. It connects the Honshu and Shikoku islands through 6 smaller islands. The smaller islands are connected with massive bridges. The roads are well developed and makes riding a bike a breeze. The islands themselves don’t really have special sights or points of interest for tourists but the ride itself was wonderful.
As you can see from the video, the islands are connected with massive bridges. Every time I would have to cross a bridge, I would ride up a steep hill for about 2 kilometers, then cross it and cycle down to the coastline.
The cycling paths are amazing, perfectly suited for bike rides. Speaking of safety, I don’t think there’s a single place in Japan that’s not safe which makes the ride even more enjoyable.
One of the most interesting things I saw along the way must be the massive dinosaur popping out of nowhere. It was quite an unexpected sigh, but an enjoyable one. Another interesting thing I noticed during this adventure was that there were dozens of old people cycling along the path. And the bridges!
It took me 2 full days to finish this route. I was cycling around 8-10 hours a day (stops included).
The planning process for this trip was quite easy. I didn’t use any specific tools or websites, just google some random things like “where to rent a bicycle”, “how to get from Hiroshima to Shimanami Kaido” and so on.
The main reason why I decided to take this route was that I heard it’s one of the most interesting things to do in Japan and I simply could not resist not doing it. My main take-away from this trip is that you need to get a good bicycle! The one that I rented did not contribute to the trip being pleasant, far from it actually.
If you’d like to see more of my travels, I post 2 videos a month. I am really thankful for Travel-Ticker.com for their contribution to this trip. You can follow me on my personal website JacobLaukaitis.com or on my Instagram where I post the best moments from my trips.
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My Swimwear Wishlist
With summer around the corner, you may be eating healthily and going to the gym so you can feel confident. But one thing we often forget to do is invest in new swimwear before our old trusty swimsuits are falling apart.
Even the best quality swimwear can find it hard to keep its shape when you consider that it’s often being submerged in both chlorine and salt water and in the sun for hours at a time. For the best in swimwear this year, be sure to check out House of Fraser
Here’s my swimwear wishlist for 2016:
Halter Top
For those who wish they had a little more up top, a halter style can create a great silhouette for women who have a pear shape and draw attention to cleavage. For girls who are busty, a good halter top can also offer support that isn’t found in many bikini tops, and with such a wide range of colours available, a halter top is a must for 2016.
One Piece
Girls who have a body shape that is straight up and down can suit one pieces, and this swimwear has come a long way. No longer does it look like something you’d wear to swimming lessons, and you can get beautiful underwire one pieces which help give you shape and draw attention to your curves. For girls who like a retro style, you can’t go wrong with a gorgeous one piece.
Triangle Top Bikini
For girls who have been working out over winter and are excited to flaunt their bodies, triangle tops with high-cut bottoms leave little to the imagination. They’re also great for girls who have thicker or more muscular legs since the higher cut of the bottoms can help you look leaner and longer. With so many styles available, you’re sure to be able to find a cute string bikini that suits you.
Retro
For those who want to show off their figures with a little panache, you can’t go wrong with a retro style. And if you’re a little self-conscious about your waste or lower belly, high-waisted bikini bottoms can look great- Taylor Swift wore one for so long that people were wondering if she actually had a belly button.
Underwire
If you have a large bust, the idea of squeezing yourself into a string bikini can make you dread summer. But many swimsuits now include underwire and larger straps so you can feel comfortable and supported while hanging out at the beach. In fact, some of them are so supportive you could even exercise in them.
Bandeau
For women with smaller busts, a bandeau is a must. They’re not great for all body shapes as they don’t offer much support but if you’re hoping to escape tan lines, this is the one to go for. There are some super-cute styles available, including bright colours and details like zips.
Tankini
A tankini is a great “middle ground” between a one piece and a bikini. For women who aren’t comfortable showing too much skin or don’t like to show their stomachs, a tankini can still be gorgeous and draw attention to your legs instead.
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Selecting Charter Jets by Price
Aircraft charters have been around for quite a while. Selecting this method of travel means that you can use a certain plane for a certain trip without any type of long term commitment. There are thousands of different aircrafts to choose from, which includes all sizes of planes from a single engine turboprop to large, executive jets. The size and type of plane will be a significant factor in the cost of the travel.
Advantages Offered by Air Charters
If you only fly to destinations on a private plane a few times a year, then chartering is typically the most affordable option. You will pay for the journey you make, with the primary factors affecting the cost being the age and type of plane, as well as the distance being traveled. Unlike jet cards or fractionals, you don’t have to invest a large amount of money upfront and there is no continual, monthly feels that have to be paid.
With such a wide array of planes available to fly in, you can select the one that best suits your travel needs. Regardless of if it is a light jet to take five to ten people to a meeting hundreds of miles away, or a bigger jet to fly across the continent, you will easily find the perfect charter plane for your needs.
If you currently have a fractional or a jet card, then the jet charters can offer a useful supplement or be a great option for shorter trips. Fractional programs often impose a minimum flight time, which makes a shorter trip extremely costly.
Important Considerations
One of the main disadvantages of a jet charter, as with any type of private flight plan, is that it can become quite costly. If you plan to fly over 20 hours per year on a private plane, it is worth looking at alternative options, such as Fractional Ownership or Jet Cards.
Also, it is important to consider the aircraft demand will be higher at certain times of the year. During peak travel times, you will have to compete with prominent families and individuals who choose to charter and may be stuck with a sub-par charter option.
The safety, quality of the aircraft and standards of service vary quite a bit. This means you need to get a good feel for the company you plan to work with. One way to do this is by browsing the virtual catalog a company offers. Here you can browse the options offered, such as the Turboprop, light jet, mid jet, super-mid jet and heavy jet. The cost of the quote that is typically given includes the ramp fees, taxes, catering, fuel surcharges, fuel and landing fees, as well as any overnight expenses for the crew, if applicable. With chartered private jets, safety is still the number 1 priority. The fuels and oils used by these aircraft are bespoke aeroshell fluid 41 and hydraulic fluids. These go through an industrial process to remove impurities and make them suitable for operating complex machinery. The testing involved before they are allowed to be used commercially is immense. So when travelling this way, you can be sure you are in the safest of hands.
Remember, the cost of the chartering services can vary quite a bit based on the aircraft, actual geographical location, time of the year traveling, when you are booking the flight and the service provider. For example, a Turboprop may cost around $1,500 while the heavy jet costs $8,500. This is why it is essential to consider your needs to find the best option.
The Bottom Line
People who fly out of a particular airport often build a relationship with the selected charter company. They get a chance to know the planes available, as well as the crew and pilots. This helps them know what to expect with each trip. If you are new to the charter market, it is a good idea to do a bit of investigating prior to making a decision. This will allow you to find the right charter supplier for your needs.
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Top things to do in Mauritius
Once a haunt for pirates, today the tropical island of Mauritius is best known for its white sandy beaches with scenic mountains in the backdrop. This beautiful tropical paradise is also bestowed with the stunning natural phenomena of multi-coloured and layered earth. There are so many things to do in Mauritius, most recommended among them includes exploring colonial houses, Indian temples, walking with lions or swimming with dolphins!
Spot rare flora and fauna while hiking or trekking to the largest national park in Mauritius, enjoy plethora of water sports on the beaches or have a gourmet cuisine on a romantic evening cruise; Mauritius has plenty of things to see and do. The contrast of a multitude of colours and tastes, the island of Mauritius provides unsurpassed tranquillity and experiences, introducing visitors to a heavenly experience with its charm.
- See the seven colours of the earth – Chamarel!
Chamarel, the multi-coloured land is a natural phenomenon and a prominent tourist destination in Mauritius. Located within a large green dense forest, this is a small area of strikingly bare landscape, comprising of sand of seven distinct colours. Exploring Chamarel is one of the best things to do in Mauritius and provides a glimpse into one of the amazing geological wonders of the world.
- Port Louis, Mauritius – A capital worth exploring!
Even though most things to do in Mauritius revolve around its beautiful beaches, wildlife parks and adventure activities, we would recommend you to spend some time in the lively capital city of Mauritius – Port Louis. This amazing vibrant city is filled with several attractions like The Fort Adelaide, Blue Penny Museum, St. James Cathedral, Central Market, the Natural History Museum and Caudan Waterfront and certainly not be missed while exploring this exciting port city.
- Enjoy the romantic evening on cruise!
If you are looking for something romantic like candlelight dinner on the beach, cruise with a dinner on board or theme night on the cruise; there are plenty of options to fulfil a memorable date filled with sunset, candle-lit dinner and live music. The best way to explore Mauritius in the evenings is to enjoy a Catamaran Sunset cruise, which offers glimpses of the famed sunset of Mauritius, nothing compares to this unique cruising experience.
- Taste the local food of Mauritius!
Mauritius has the best to offer in terms of food that will satiate your taste buds. The ethnic diversity of the Island nation, is reflected in its cuisine as the Mauritian cuisine is highly influenced by French, Indian, Chinese, Creole and English traditions. Seafood holds prominence and comes highly recommended in Mauritian cuisine. With its varied flavours and aromas, the cuisine is indeed a gastronomic delight.
- Absorb the culture of Mauritius!
Come and experience the true beauty of nature and the culture of Mauritius by exploring the traditional village of Grand Baie. Grand Baie is a seaside village and is also known as the most popular holiday destination in Mauritius. Renowned for its enchanting quality of its emerald waters and liveliness of its seaside village, Grand Baie is simply the best place to absorb the culture of Mauritius by visiting its traditional local shops and interacting with the friendly locals.
- Explore the beaches!
Pristine Indian Ocean, warm azure turquoise waters, natural blue lagoons and untampered coral reefs and endless powdery white sandy beaches with droves of coconut and palm trees; Mauritius is truly a beach lovers paradise. While Mauritius has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, there is no lack of offbeat or best things to do in Mauritius. Some of the famous beaches in Mauritius are Belle Mare Beach, La Cuvette beach, Le Morne and many more.
- Visit Ile Aux Cerfs!
Famous for its white sandy beach, beautiful blue lagoon and plenty of entertaining activities to indulge in, a visit to Ile Aux Cerfs, also known as ‘Deer Island’ is a must during your vacation in Mauritius. This private island will make sure to have a fun filled day on one of the picture-postcard beaches in Mauritius. You can take a short walk along the main beach to discover some idyllic and secluded coves, where you can simply relax. If you want to experience Mauritian golfing with breath-taking views of lagoon, then this is definitely an ideal place, which also offers a 18-hole golf course.
- Go shopping in Mauritius!
Mauritius is a shopper’s paradise for luxury items and especially designed jewellery and high brand clothing, electronics goods and branded perfumes. For those hunting for a good bargain, explore the textiles markets and clothing factory outlets where you will find all the branded clothes at a very low price. Also, there are some places where you can enjoy duty free shopping or you can buy souvenirs or local products to your heart’s content.
- Visit the Black River Gorges National Park!
No matter, what your preference is on your Mauritius holiday, if you are looking to know more about the history and culture of the island or just want to see the amazing wildlife of Mauritius, a visit to the Black River Gorges National Park is a must. The wide diversity of landscapes and parks will never cease to enchant you. Hiking to the Black River Georges National Park – the largest national park in Mauritius is a must do thing in Mauritius for adventure lovers.
- Explore the Grand Bassin!
Located deep in the heart of Mauritius and about 1800 feet high above the sea level, the Grand Bassin, also known as Ganga Talao is a serene Crater Lake, renowned as one of the most important sacred places for Hindus. Visiting a temple with a 108 feet tall statue of Lord Shiva guarding the entrance is one of the must see things in Mauritius.
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Palau: A Perfect Pacific Archipelago Adventure
You can keep your Hawaiis and your Virgin Islands. I’m not interested in Bermuda, Barbados, Belize, or the Bahamas. The only tropical paradise I ever want to see again is Palau.
An island country in the far west Pacific ― or the far east, depending on your perspective ― Palau is a tiny archipelago with massive beauty. I had the extreme fortune to visit its exquisite shores last year, and I cannot wait to go back. Here are all the reasons Palau is the most perfect place to spend your vacation days as well as all the reasons you will never want to leave.
The Underwater Serengeti
There is snorkeling and scuba diving ― and then, there is snorkeling and scuba diving around Palau. In the waters amongst the archipelago’s 500-some islands, the waters are teeming with some of the brightest, busiest, most mind-boggling sea creatures in existence. Though you can step in the water basically anywhere in Palau and find a fascinating place to swim, these five sites tend to attract the most divers ― for very good reasons:
- Chandelier Cave. I was hesitant to agree to underwater caving, but I eventually caved (pun intended) and was glad I did. Though there is hardly any coral, there are some exotic fish hiding in the labyrinthine caverns.
- Helmet Wreck. Whenever you get the chance, you should book a wreck dive. This shipwreck from World War II has grown a fabulous coral system from bow to stern, demonstrating how life always prevails.
- Blue Corner. An impressive ridge of coral extends deep into the ocean, making for spectacular views, but the strong currents here reserve this site for experienced divers only. I sat this one out, but my partner wouldn’t stop talking about the one-of-a-kind views.
- Turtle Wall. In contrast, this site is ideal for beginners. This massive reef seems to be just five feet below the surface, but it actually extends almost 900 feet to the ocean floor. Based on the name, it is no surprise that this is a popular hangout for sea turtles.
- Jellyfish Lake. Last but not least: Palau’s most famous diving site is a saltwater lake that is suffused with millions of jellies. The jellies’ stingers are too small to hurt humans, and swimming amidst so many harmless blobs is a memory you cannot miss.
The Harrowing History
During World War II, Palau was a highly advantageous island for the Pacific Theater, and Japanese and American forces fought desperately for control of its airstrip in 1944. The result was tragic ― thousands of casualties on both sides and a natural paradise littered with war wreckage ― and much of the evidence of the struggle remains on Palau today.
I took a guided tour to many sites containing WWII-era machinery, which includes rusted tanks, planes, and even unexploded ordinances. It is thrilling to realize how important this tiny archipelago was to two of the most dominant nations, and it is captivating to see the complex machinery deteriorating due to nature’s power.
The Cosmopolitan Culture
Though much of my time in Palau was spent exploring the natural scenery, it is hard to ignore the culture that has developed in its most populous city, Koror. Influenced by the convergence of peoples, Koror is equal parts American and Asian ― with a healthy dash of distinctive Palauan, to boot.
Thanks to my saved up rewards points from my amazing rewards card, I was able to save money when
I booked a hotel within walking distance from the downtown neighborhood. Exploring the shops and eateries on Main Street is terrifically fun, and since Palau uses the U.S. dollar, prices were easy to understand. I particularly enjoyed seeing traditional Palauan storyboards, an art form not common anywhere else.
The Commitment to the Environment
As an environmentalist, I was most thrilled to learn that Palau is leading the world in environmental protection. An astounding 100 percent of Palau’s oceans are preserved as natural sanctuaries, and the small-island nation is working hard to use only renewable resources and keep the environment pristine. In 2014, President Remengesau was named “Champion of the Earth” by the United Nations, which is no small honor. I look forward to returning to Palau to find it even more beautiful than when I left ― which is impossible to say about most other vacation destinations.
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7 Amazing Health Benefits of Drinking Wine
Nothing’s better than popping open a cork after a hectic day at the office, and the exquisite wine that flows in tempting drops into your polished glass.
Sometimes in this sweet moment we hear this voice whispering in our ear “should I really be drinking wine?” We then try to answer the question by countering that a little wine won’t hurt. Of course, overindulgence on anything is a health no-no, but what if it’s just a glass or two of your favorite wine per week?
Most of us know the heart-healthy benefits of red wine. Now, prepare to be relieved and amazed! Did you know that your wine-drinking habit can be a powerful health elixir? Check out the following benefits of wine that go way beyond heart health.
1. Live Longer. Yep. A recently discovered Blue Zone on the Island of Ikarios are people who live longer than anywhere else in the globe. Their daily wine consumption is agreed to be one of the reasons for the phenomenon. That and eating fewer animal-based foods and consuming more plant-based foods. You’ll notice that the residents of Sardinia and Crete continually sips dark red wine, the same variety of pinot noir from Advintage. A study in 2007 found out that procyanidins, a compound found in red wine tannings help promote heart health.
2. Promote eye health. Resveratrol also hinders out-of-control blood vessel that grows in the eyes. This is according to a research conducted at Washington University School of Medicine. This aids with treatment of age-related macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy. Take note though that these studies were done in mice, so the dose for humans is not yet clear. However, this is a promising start.
3. Get Smarter. The resveratrol found in wine may help improve short-term memory. Tests show that 30 minutes after trial, researchers notice that participants taking resveratrol can retain longer words and has increased performance in the portion of the brain connected with the production of new learning, emotions, and memories.
4. Prevent Prostate Cancer. A report by Harvard Men’s Health Watch found out that men who drink an average of four to seven glasses of wine every week have a 52% less chance of being diagnosed with prostate cancer compared to those won don’t. Red wine is also associated with the prevention of aggressive or advanced cancers.
5. Lessen the risk of stroke. Wine can also reduce the risk of ischemic stroke. An analysis adjusted for sex, age and smoking, intake of wine on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis was associated with a lower risk of any type of stroke compared with no wine intake.
6. Prevent breast cancer. Red grapes have the ability to stop the activity of aromatase, the enzyme found in breast tumors that produce their own estrogen – doctors call this an aromatase inhibitor. Red wine can serve as a nutritional source of aromatase inhibitor, which may decrease the elevated breast cancer risk caused by excessive alcohol intake.
7. Reduce your diabetes risk. People who drink wine moderately have a 30 percent lower risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. This may be because of resveratrol, which enhances sensitivity to insulin. Insulin resistance is the most vital factor that contributes to Type 2 diabetes risk.
The only mistake you can make is to rely on a bottle for all your health concerns. Overindulgence is a no-no. Now that you’ve seen the many awesome benefits of wine, it’s time to drink a glass!
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The Best Destinations for a Wine Tour
A great wine holiday combines spectacular vineyards with rich heritage and top-notch wine. Whether you’re a novice or connoisseur, these world-class regions promise the experience of a lifetime. Learn more about your favorite wines, enjoy the local attractions and take in the beautiful landscapes.
Piedmont, Italy
Situated on the borders of Switzerland and France, Italy’s second largest region is home to the legendary reds, Barbera and Nebbiolo. The charming hilltop town of Asti is where you’ll also find the sparkling Italian white, Moscato d’Asti. It’s this impressive legacy which makes Peidmont one of the best destinations in Italy for the wine lover.
Some of the vineyards such as Roero and Monferrato have even been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Expect magnificent scenery in the nearby Alps and be sure to indulge at one of the many fine dining restaurants.
Rhone Valley, France
Boasting 13 wine trails, this picturesque landscape in Southern France stretches an impressive 150 miles. Producing wine for over 500 years this region is responsible for many full bodied reds and was the birthplace of Syrah.
Visitors can explore the many quaint villages and take culinary workshops which are offered throughout the region. You’ll be given pairing advice for locally sourced foods including truffles and cheeses. The active individual can also enjoy an array of activities from hiking the Mont Ventoux or if you’re feeling brave, you could cycle the entire length of the Rhone.
Galicia, Spain
Nestled in the northwest corner of Spain, this verdant region receives plenty of rainfall throughout the winter. It creates a lush green landscape unlike anywhere else in the country.
Tour the famed vineyards of Ribeira and Monterrei where you’ll find plenty of opportunities to taste the wine and find out more about producing methods. The region is also home to Albarino wine which is becoming increasingly popular on the international stage. Be sure to sample some of Galicia’s world class seafood and visit the many historic sites including the Santiago de Compostela Cathedral.
Stellenbosch, South Africa
Travel down the awe-inspiring Garden Route on the southeastern coast of South Africa and you’ll eventually stu8mble upon a wine mecca. The famed route covers dozens of exclusive wineries, showcasing the regions signature Pinotage and Chenin Blanc wines.
The spectacular backdrop of mountains provide the perfect setting for a full day tour where you’ll visit beautiful vineyards including the famed DeMorgenzon. These masters of production play baroque music throughout their estate as it is believed to enhance the ripening process! From here, finish your adventure by visiting the bustling capital, Cape Town which is home to plenty of great restaurants and chic bars.
Treat yourself to an indulgent holiday in one of these wine destinations and you’ll be guaranteed a one-of-a-kind experience.
Image by puliarf used under Creative Commons License.
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More and More People Choosing Christmas Away from Home
Christmas has always been a traditional day for many people in Britain and around the world. It’s usually spent at home, and numerous relatives will visit for lunch or dinner (sometimes both) making it a stressful exercise for the person cooking and whoever is in charge of ensuring that there are never too many people at the table at once.
But people are catching on to the fact that sometimes the holidays are better spent away from home. Blue Chip Holidays has recently polled 1,158 adult Brits, after seeing a 26% increase in bookings for the Christmas and New Year holidays compared to last year, and an increase of 60% from 2013.
The first question in the survey? Where would Brits choose to spend Christmas if they could spend it anywhere. Unsurprisingly, at home with family was still the most popular choice, but it was followed by the idea of renting a large house for a get-together with family, going somewhere hot, spending it at a cottage with a loved one, or enjoying Christmas at a hotel where everything would be taken care of.
Respondents were then asked what they would rather do on Christmas day, and with three answers to choose from, the results were interesting. While 58% said they would like to have the traditional Christmas celebrations, a huge 36% said they would prefer to spend it outdoors, taking part in various activities, and 6% said they would spend it volunteering.
The next question was, “Which outdoor activities?” and the top 5 answers were cycling, swimming, surfing, rambling and skiing (in that order).
This represents a change from the traditional Christmas spent predominantly inside, eating rich Christmas food, and could be part of a generation shift. Generation Y is less likely to put up with doing things “because they have to” and because of tradition or family responsibilities, so maybe we’re seeing this shift due to this generation’s refusal to have a traditional Christmas purely because of expectations.
The truth is, while Christmas is exciting for kids, for many adults it can be a nightmare. Along with having to buy gifts for extended family and friends, Christmas often includes hours spent in the kitchen, followed by hours of clean up.
Spending the day away from home but with family is a great compromise. Instead of buying each other expensive gifts, why not agree to rent out a beautiful holiday home somewhere, and spend the day skiing, making snowmen and having snowball fights with the family. You’ll often be surprised by how quickly other family members will jump on this idea, as it means no one will have the full responsibility of making Christmas day a success and everyone will be able to relax and simply enjoy each others company.
For more information about this growing trend, and to decide if getting away for Christmas could be a great idea for your family, check out this article.
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Travel Plans for 2016: The Salt Mines of Turda and the Ice Cave of Scarisoara, Romania
Reading my articles has showed you, without a doubt, that I am very fond of unique experiences. I’ve had quite a few already, and I plan to have even more in the coming years. Next year – if I can find the time and the energy – I plan to spend a few days in a picturesque part of Europe, which is unfortunately off the tourist maps most of the time, exploring some of its less known wonders hidden underground.
The salt mines of Turda
Turda is a small town near Cluj Napoca, one of the most important university centers of Romania. While it was for a long time overshadowed by another salt mine of the country, it has quickly gained notoriety as one of the most spectacular underground attractions in Romania. The mine itself, which has been turned into a tourist attraction and a place of relief for respiratory issues, was producing table salt as early as a millennium ago.
“Spectacular” is the word I’d use to describe the wonders of this tourist attraction. People could spend days underground, wandering around in the vast man-made caverns, breathing in the healthy air. The resort offers a series of activities to explore, from rowing on an underground lake to simply sitting on a bench, using its free WiFi to read the news or play casino games while letting the air do its job. And it could be worth it even beyond the experience – a friend of mine who has spent a week there told me he didn’t even catch a cold in the next year and a half.
The ice cave of Scarisoara
An unsung wonder of the Romanian countryside, hidden between the mountains of Alba county, is the ice cave of Scarisoara. To reach the cave, you’ll have to drive – there’s no train, no bus to take you close to it. By car it can be reached at the end of a scenic drive, followed by a 10 minute walk in the woods. But once you get there, the wonder begins. First you’ll have to walk down over 200 steps into something that resembles a giant sinkhole. Once you get to the bottom, you’ll feel the change in the air: it’s cold. And when you enter the cave, you’ll find out why – it is filled with ice, even during the hottest days of the summer. And it’s amazing.
Once you’re in, you’ll be amazed of the dimensions of the Big Hall, from where you can visit the Church (with over 100 stalagmites made of ice) and the Little Reserve. There are other areas inside, but these are reserved for researchers and scientists. But the part you can see is amazing in itself.
