Archive for the ‘holidays’ Category

Crete A Top 2010 Holiday Island

Saturday, August 28th, 2010

http://www.trivago have recently revealed the top island holiday destinations so far for this summer, and Crete is one of them. Trivago is worth visiting to check out hotel prices.

Tenerife, Spain
Tenerife, the number one destination for British travellers, is the largest of the seven Canary Islands, and also Spain’s busiest resort – the island receives 10 million visitors each year. The island’s crowning glory is the Pico del Teide, the third largest volcano in the world, which rises 3718 metres from the base of the island. From its peak, travellers have a remarkable view of the island’s 350km of coastline, tropical vegetation, volcanic craters and lava formations. Tenerife’s wild nature is undoubtedly the island’s best feature, but the island is also well known for its beautiful beaches. The island has a rich birdlife, and many travellers consider the bird park ”Loro Parque“ a mandatory stop. The Carnival of Santa Cruz – one of the world’s largest carnivals – takes place every year in February.

Cyprus
Cyprus is the third largest island in the Mediterranean Sea, and while many associate its name with historical and political divisiveness, millions of tourists visit the island each year for its spectacular sights and attractions. As a result of its turbulent history, Cyprus has evolved into an intriguing and alluring blend of Greek and Turkish identities. The Tomb of the Kings, a network of underground tombs dating back to the 4th Century BC, are one of the island’s most prominent attractions, and the island’s many medieval forts and citrus groves are beautiful to behold. The Karpas Peninsula is also renowned for its breathtaking beaches.

Majorca, Spain
Majorca is part of the Balearic Islands archipelago and is one of Europe’s most popular island destinations. The island is well known for its nightlife and numerous clubs and bars, particularly in the town centre of Playa de Palma and El Arenal. Visitors are drawn to the island’s turquoise blue bays, pristine sandy beaches, antique ruins and historical buildings, such as the Cathedral La Seu and the Palacio Real de la Almudaina in Palma. It pays to escape the island’s touristic heart and venture out into the wild, however; those who do will discover the true essence of Majorca, in the form of idyllic villages, local markets and the traditional Majorcan way of life.

Gran Canaria, Spain
Located 125 miles off the coast of West Africa, the Spanish island of Gran Canaria is often referred to as a mini continent, due to its many different climates. In the south, the climate is tropical and dry; in the north, it is subtropical and dry. The result is a glorious diversity of plant and animal life, giving nature enthusiasts plenty to explore during their stay. Hikers will also appreciate the 2,000 metre high Pozo de las Nieves mountain in the centre of Gran Canaria, which attracts climbers from around the world. Another of the island’s main attractions is the dune beach, located near Maspalomas, a town in the south of the island. Culture lovers should visit the capital Las Palmas in the north of Gran Canaria which has magnificent buildings, such as the Cathedral Santa Ana. Another highlight is the old fortress Castillo de la Luz that is currently used as a museum.

Lanzarote
Lanzarote is the fourth largest island in the Canary Island chain, and was the first of the islands to be settled in 1100 BC. At first glance, Lanzarote’s sparse, volcanic landscape may seem bleak, but for those willing to look a little closer, many amazing attractions are to be found. Lanzarote’s beaches are particularly well noted, and visitors to the Timanfaya National Park can witness the otherworldly beauty of the island’s volcanic craters and lava fields. Unique experiences abound; guests will certainly enjoy the park’s El Diablo restaurant, where food is cooked directly over a volcanic vent, or a trek through the ‘Tunnel of Atlantis’ – the world’s largest submerged volcanic tunnel.

Crete
The island of Crete is probably best known for its legends ties to Greek legends such as the Minotaur and the tragic tale of Icarus and Daedalus. The ruins of the Minoan palace of Knossos, of Venetian fortresses and former trading ports all point to the island’s rich history and cultural legacy. Yet this ancient island has much to offer the modern world as well: Cretan art, literature and music styles (typically performed with a lyre) are very distinct, and have contributed greatly to the diversity and evolution of Greek culture. Visitors to Crete would be remiss if they did not explore the island’s many ruins and heritage sites, and the island’s fresh produce and Mediterranean cuisine will provide a tantalizing treat for the senses.

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Paxos – The Fairytale Greek Holiday Island

Friday, August 20th, 2010

If you’re considering a holiday on one of the Greek islands for this year or next, Paxos might be worth considering for a family holiday, or for a romantic getaway for couples.

According to Greek legendy, the island was created by Poseidon when he struck Corfu with his trident in effort to gain peace and quiet. The pebble beaches of Paxos are surrounded by sheer, precipitous cliffs that create scenery that is both breathtaking and expressive.

The sea around Paxos has vivid colours; it is pleasantly clean, clear, and cool. Dramatic fauna and flora are abundant, especially in spring. Ancient olive trees line the hillsides allowing the mind and senses escape to the treasure of comfort and beauty that awaits holidaymakers.

Seeing The Island

Paxos is charming and quaint and can be seen easily in a couple of days by motorbike or car. The three main towns on the island are Logos, Laka, and Gaios. All of which exhibit the classiul ac Hellenic Ionian style with bright and colourful homes lining the promenades.

The rural area environment has a landscape that features low stone homes surrounded by bountifnd lush gardens. There is always something beautiful to see and many photo opportunities while you’re sightseeing or walking. For those who like Crete holidays it’s familiar but at the same time unique enough to enjoy.

The three main resorts all have natural harbours – Gaios being the biggest and busiest.

Travelling further inland there are old churches and buildings and many hiking or biking trails if you seek to further explore the island’s rich history.

Hotels In Paxos And Things To Do

Travel around the entire island on a day or half day cruise. Picturesque wind-carved limestone cliffs, sculptural rock formations, and caverns line the way. Crystal clear, calm waters surrounding the island only add to the exquisite beauty. The weather and climate on Paxos is similar to the weather in Crete.

A bit of history from World War II is just off the island. Inside the cave called Papanikolis, a Greek submarine found refuge and hid during the war.

There is plenty of opportunity to swim, snorkel and relax. This island is wonderful for holidaymakers seeking relaxation and to get away from the rest of the world. The locals are all very friendly and happily greet visitors. A spectacular sunset can be seen by traveling to Erimitis, a bar which sits above the cliffs of the west coast.

Paxos is a worthwhile day trip if you don’t have a lot of time, but want to escape for a bit. There are many hiking and biking paths that go around the island via trails, coves, and beaches. There’s a few travel sites that have a map, often the same ones that have a Crete map.

You can easily take in the unhurried, traditional, and tranquil Greek lifestyle. Many people visit this wonderful island because of the miles of pathways that lead to unspoiled, secluded beaches and coves.

Hotels in Paxos fill quickly during peak travel season. Villa holidays are popular. Many villas have private pools and various villa companies include Paxos in their brochures, James Villas for example.

The island also has two hotels that often receive rave reviews from happy guests. The island of Paxos might be small compared to some islands like Kefalonia, but it offers an intimate charm and beauty for those who crave quiet, peaceful relaxation. Retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday modern living and escape from it all.

More information about the Greek islands are available on social media like reddit

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Bad Behaviour In Greece

Sunday, August 8th, 2010

The Foreign Office has issued a report about the behaviour of a small minority of British tourists who can cause big problems, as this Daily Mail report shows:

A new FCO report on the behaviour of Britons on holiday has revealed that thousands of tourists were arrested or forced to seek hospital treatment last year, often because they had consumed too much alcohol.

The report, which looked at incidents involving British tourists between April 2009 and March 2010, found that around six thousands travellers lost their lives while abroad. Drink, drugs and road traffic accidents were among the primary reasons for the deaths.

Spain, the US and France were the countries where British visitors needed the most consular assistance.

The report found that ‘most arrests involving British people in Spain are for drunk or drink-related offences’. The highest proportion of arrests for drug offences was in Thailand, Cyprus and the United Arab Emirates.

The research also highlights the need for adequate travel insurance with the FCO publishing examples of incidents involving travellers who faced huge bills after hitting problems while abroad without the correct cover.

One man on a skiing holiday was forced to pay a 4,500-euro bill for mountain rescue, transport and medical costs after he fell and broke his collarbone while on a ski holiday because he didn’t have comprehensive travel insurance.

Drunken behaviour is also cited as a big problem with overseas authorities often making an example of those who act inappropriately. A Briton who urinated on one of Latvia’s most revered monuments was sentenced to five days in custody.

In the sunshine resort of Malia on Crete, this week, a UK reporter found himself on the receiving end of drunken violence after he was attacked by a Greek bar owner for trying to film a young British woman who was ‘comatose’ with drink.


Richard Gaisford, a journalist for GMTV, was punched in the face and had his microphone stolen while filming a piece on the FCO report. He said: ‘I’ve just been smashed in the face, probably by one of the guys here who are very keen to protect the image of this place. And that image is not good.’

Young Britons flock to the Greek resort for the party atmosphere. Doctors at Malia’s medical centre, where drunk tourists often find themselves, defended the area’s boozy reputation: ‘The problem here is that the people drink alcohol but it’s less this year than last. This year, we’ve [also] not had so many people with drugs.’

Among other warnings, the FCO advises travellers to be aware of stricter laws abroad, to ensure travel insurance is comprehensive and to research which vaccinations are needed for travel to certain countries. Visit http://www.fco.gov.uk/travel for advice, and to read the original article at the Daily Mail click here

For Lanzarote flights visit yourlanzarote.net

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Cheap Crete Holidays Available

Friday, August 6th, 2010

There’s some good deals around for holidays in Greece for those considering the Greek Islands for August and September, as the Daily Mail report:

The head of one of the UK’s leading holiday operators to Greece has said tourists shouldn’t be dissuaded from visiting the country in spite of recent threats from a terror organisation.

A declaration sent out by urban guerrilla group Sect of Revolutionaries last week warned: ‘Tourists should learn that Greece is no longer a safe haven of capitalism’. The group, which has already claimed the life of journalist Sokratis Giolias, went on to say that they ‘intend to turn [Greece] into a war zone of revolutionary activity with arson, sabotage, violent demonstrations, bombings and assassinations, and not a country that is a destination for holidays and pleasure’.

Managing director of Sunvil Holidays, Noel Josephides, said the company has been discounting Greek holidays in a bid to sell more late deals and that many of the major operators have been ’switching a lot of capacity from Greece to Egypt and Turkey which are a lot more fashionable this year’. While ‘people who know and love Greece are still going to go this year’, Mr Josephides conceded the country’s unsettled political situation may make those who have yet to decide where to spend their summer holidays think twice before travelling to the popular Greek islands such as Kefalonia, Crete and Corfu. Mr Josephides is also quick to add that there are some upsides to the situation for tourists.

‘There will be fewer people going to Greece over the summer, that means the beaches and resorts will be quieter, (and) prices about 10 per cent lower.’ The Greek government is adamant that tourists will be safe, saying in a public statement: ‘In relation to the recent events linked to the terrorist group Sect of Revolutionaries, there is absolutely no danger to tourists or the Greek public’.

For the latest weather in Corfu visit yourcorfu.net and for the Crete weather visit yourcrete.net

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A Luxury Greek Holiday – With The Children

Tuesday, August 3rd, 2010

Is it possible to enjoy a luxury holiday when you take the children as well? The Daily Mail’s travel section found it is – and to read the full article click here

Any parent looking to head off for a luxury holiday while keeping a close eye on the purse strings  has one concern above all others: where can I find my own high-end paradise which, crucially, caters for children and doesn’t break the bank?

I was assured that the Sani Beach Resort in Halkidiki, Greece would provide the answer.

A privately-owned stretch of pine forest and olive groves, fringed by a long white sandy beach and the turquoise waters of the Aegean, the Sani Beach Club is a low-rise bungalow hotel set amongst landscaped gardens.

Of the four Sani hotels in the area, Sani Beach caters more specifically for families. The setting is peaceful and just a short shuttle bus ride away from the hustle and bustle of the local marina.

There are a number of room options on offer, from deluxe doubles to slightly larger suites – some with their own pool – and family rooms comprising two doubles with interconnecting door. Check in was swift, with an icy glass of sparkling wine and fresh juice making the process as painless as possible.

Our light and airy deluxe double room was stylishly furnished in pale blue and neutral sandstone tones, with a double bed and two sofa beds made up for our children Tallulah and George. As they tucked into the mouth-watering bowl of fresh fruit by their beds, Nick and I sipped another glass of fizz on the balcony and contemplated our first afternoon by the pool.

When we arrived at said pool, it felt like we had landed at ‘Boden-On-Sea’. No beer-induced shouting or squawking children, just small groups of impossibly cute under-fives playing beautifully in the shallow water while their parents looked on from cream, padded sun loungers. I did wonder whether I might be dreaming that a holiday with two young children could be like this.

It was all blissfully real though, from the crystal-clear pool and the private white sandy beach to the wondrous view out to Mount Olympus and the friendly Beach Club staff.

Any request was met with a big smile and a quick response and by the end of the week, our children were on first name terms with every waiter, concierge and golf cart driver they’d met.

Another big highlight for our children was the Sani’s Melissa Kids Club. The Beach Club has its own kids club run by British Childcare specialists, Worldwide Kids Company, and provides free daily entertainment for children over four and crèche facilities for younger children starting at 18 euros per session.

Lula loved making bracelets and building sandcastles with her new ‘best friend’, Alex, while George helped rebuild England’s football reputation in a mini ‘World Cup’ tournament.

For information about Crete holidays visit yourcrete.net and for Kefalonia holidays yourkefalonia.net

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Greece Offer Guarantee For Flights Home

Sunday, July 18th, 2010

The Daily Telegraph has reported that Greece has offered to cover the costs of tourists who are stranded as a result of industrial action or natural disaster in what is effectively a free “insurance policy”.

The move is designed to repair the damage done to its important tourism industry as a result of industrial action and the ash cloud caused by the Iceland volcano. Athens issued the undertaking as the country faced a wave of protests called by unions against government austerity cuts.

Pavlos Geroulanos, the Culture Minister announced the government would “guarantee” extra room and board payments if return flights are cancelled or postponed. “We are certain that it will be a calm summer and that there will be no major strike disruptions,” an official said. “But just in case something happens, the Greek state is prepared to cover these costs.” He said: “We are guaranteeing to pay any extra room and board any visitor in Greece pays even if stuck here because of a volcano in Iceland.”

Tourism generates almost one-fifth of the Greek gross domestic product but bookings have collapsed 10 per cent since the onset of the financial crisis. Budget cuts have provoked stoppages and strikes among public sector workers.

Public life has been met with continual disruption since the Greek government hit the financial buffers last year. Railway employees this week embarked on a series of two hour stoppages, disrupting mainline trains and service to Athens International airport. A Communist-controlled sailors union is planning to mount a blockade of the main port of Piraeus. But Mr Geroulanos said there were indications that visitor numbers would be better than forecast.

“The numbers are not really as gloomy as they were with the first cancellations,” he said. “Some destinations have suffered greatly due to the crisis, but others are doing better than before.” Greece has moved to ensure that the cost of visiting is reduced. It has suspended landing fees at all regional airports and relaxed visa rules for Russians and Ukrainians.

For Crete holidays visit yourcrete.net

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Crete – Good Value For Villa Holidays

Saturday, July 3rd, 2010

Villa Holidays

Crete is one of the best places this summer for those who like villa holidays according to the Daily Mail, who say:

Two of the priciest areas to rent a villa in Greece are northeast Corfu, a playground for bankers, politicians and Russian oligarchs – nicknamed Kensington-on-Sea – and near the upmarket resort of Fiscardo in northern Kefalonia.

Greek Islands Club (020 8232 9780, www.greekislandsclub.com) calculated that villas of similar quality in southern parts of Corfu and Kefalonia cost about 20 to 25 per cent less to rent.

Crete is also good value, says the company. As the most southerly part of Greece, the season is longer than in other parts of the country, so villa owners don’t feel the need to raise their prices so much in the prime summer months.

Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/travel/article-1278845/Cheap-self-catering-villa-holidays-Languedoc-Orlando.html?ito=feeds-newsxml#ixzz0sdX35fIO

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7 Top Crete Villas

Monday, April 19th, 2010

A list of a hundred top villas available for holidays was published in The Times recently, and no fewer than seven Crete villas were mentioned – they were:

Talisker
Sleeps 8

Got a bonus to spend? Then slap a deposit down on this palace near Elounda immediately. Everything about it is ravishing: the sharp, contemporary lines, the enormous, airy interiors, the terraced garden, the elevated sea views. You’ll never want to leave. Heraklion airport is a 75-minute drive. £8,500/£6,500

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Villa Olous
Sleeps 16

Here are some things you never thought you’d need on a Cretan villa holiday: grand piano, antique snooker table, tennis court, croquet lawn and private Greek Orthodox chapel, looking out to sea. Elegant and enormous, Villa Olous has the lot — topped off by magnificent sea views. Heraklion airport is a 55-minute drive. £24,545 year-round

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Haniotena Cottage
Sleeps 2

A couple of history-heads will love this place in the village of Kritsa, above Agios Nikolaos. It’s said to be one of the oldest surviving villages in Crete, and there’s no doubt the ground floor is pretty ancient, with a higgledy-piggledy front door and enormous stone walls. Nearby is Lato — one of those neglected but wildly romantic classical ruins that litter the Cretan countryside. Heraklion airport is an hour’s drive. £1,430/£930

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The Stonemason’s House
Sleeps 4

If you’re serious about finding “the real Crete”, this is where to come — a simple house, full of antiques and hand-sewn fabrics, in the tiny village of Embrosnero. The owners, Maria and Yannis, live nearby, and are part of the appeal, as Maria is an excellent cook. Chania airport is an hour’s drive. £625/£599

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Villa Galania
Sleeps 4

It might lack architectural grace and Cretan atmosphere, but this well-equipped hilltop house near the north coast would make a superb setting for go-nowhere family holidays. It’s the array of outside spaces that make it special: a children’s pool next to the main one, shady terraces and balconies, a big deck with wicker armchairs and table football, a barbecue area with a traditional oven and a herb garden. Chances are you’ll never get bored. Chania airport is 45 minutes by car. £1,775/£660

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Haritakis House
Sleeps 6

It’s a simple proposition: a stone house in the middle of nowhere, with lovely sea views and a shady terrace for meals. There’s no pool, no air-con, no fancy sinks in the bathroom — and even in high season, it works out at less than £115pp a week. The nearest beach is at Ligres, five minutes away. Chania airport is two hours by car. £680/£385

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Villa Svega
Sleeps 6

In the 15th century, they used to store acorns and carrots here — under two arched stone vaults. Now one of those vaults provides dramatic high-ceilinged rooms on the ground floor, while the other is the perfect place for shaded alfresco meals. The house, in the middle of the village of Gallou, near Rethymnon, also has a pretty garden, a rooftop terrace and its own pool. Heraklion airport is 90 minutes by car. £1,450/£930

A full choice of Crete villa holidays is available with James Villas

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Good Value Crete

Wednesday, March 24th, 2010

Crete is a great place for a holiday, and good value for money too, according to The Daily Telegraph in the UK who comment:

Rumours of Greece’s demise as a value-for-money destination are greatly exaggerated. Greece is significantly cheaper for 2010, with prices down by 9.5 per cent compared with 12 months ago, according to the Post Office Worldwide Holiday Costs Barometer, which places Greece 12th in its league table of 30 countries. This is partly because the euro is down on last year, but also because real local prices have gone down too, giving Greece an even bigger edge over its next-door rival Turkey, where the survey claims prices are a whopping 44 per cent higher than 12 months ago.

To read the article more click here

For more information about Crete, including Crete holidays visit http://www.yourcrete.net/holidays

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