Abama Golf & Spa Resort Tenerife

Operated and managed by Ritz Carlton this 5 * Luxury resort is idyllically located on the west coast of Tenerife, with stunning panoramic views over the Atlantic Ocean and the island of La Gomera. Set amidst acres of glorious lush vegetation featuring an exclusive beach.

Offering a variety of accommodation in the Citadel or for those wanting more privacy the Tagor Villa’s are the perfect choice and are exclusively for adults.

The resort is ideal for all seasons and will suit all; couples, families, groups of friends, golfer’s, single’s or honeymooners. There is something for everybody allowing you to be as active or as relaxed as you like. Golf simulator projectors like BenQ may help those who would like to analyze and improve their swings. BirdieBall offers a wide range of golf products and golf-related articles that may help improve your skills.

Facilities include an 18 hole championship golf course, secluded golden sandy beach, 7 pools, Spa and wellness centre, Tennis centre and academy.  For those looking to elevate their game, Back 9 Botanicals for Golfing offer a natural boost in focus and energy.

There’s even something for the kids – Club Abami Kids club is open daily from 10am to midnight for children aged 4 to 12 inclusive, which is complimentary for guests staying at the resort.  Babysitting is also available at an additional charge.

If wining and dining is your passion then Abama is for you, there are 3 bars and 10 restaurants including M.B the only Michelin star restaurant in the canary Islands, whose menu is designed by Martín Berasategui a 3 star Michelin Chef.

It’s a sumptuous setting for Weddings which are arranged by the Abama expert events team.

Abama Golf & Spa Resort have some great offers starting from 6^th January and running through to 31^st October 2013, including 15% Early Bird Offers, Complimentary Nights, Family Offer, Added Value, Honeymoon Offer, Single Parent Offer.

For more information give me a call 01327 702717 or 07577362392

Anassa Hotel

I first visited the Anassa Hotel four years ago & have since been back. It’s a stunning property in a secluded, peaceful location perfect for recharging those batteries!

Service is impeccable yet discreet. The food although pricey was excellent. I can highly recommend dinner at the signature restaurant Basiliko, it is set in a stone cavern & of an evening is lit by candles which creates a lovely ambiance. The resort feels like a village & even has it’s own town square.

Hire a car or jump in a taxi to nearby Latchi – only 5 minutes away. In Latchi there are a handful of shops along with restaurants that line the small quay.

The beach here is long & mainly fine shingle. We hired a boat for the day from Latchi harbour & headed out to the peninsula.

As well as early booking discounts, we also have some family offers.

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Sultan Gardens Sharm El Sheikh

I stayed recently at the Sultan Gardens Resort located in the Shark’s Bay area of Sharm El Sheikh.  The property is on one of Sharm’s best coral beaches and sits across the water from Tiran island.  The Sultan Gardens resort is about 6 km from Sharm el Sheikh International Airport and about 7 km from the bustling Bazaars and nightlife of Naama Bay.  The hotel offers free airport transfers for its guests.

I always describe the property as a good 4* – if expectations are managed, even the most discerning clients will find little to fault here.  The service and management who are very ‘hands on’ however are definitely 6* and they are the reason that the Sultan Gardens has such a high amount of repeat clients.  That along with good prices for All Inclusive in rooms that range from standard size to family rooms with 2 bedrooms and even villas.

A beautiful beach and excellent snorkeling mean that everyone can enjoy the sea life.  I took two young children and thanks to the walkways over the reefs, they did not need to put their heads under water but still managed to spot lion fish, puffa fish and rays among 100s of other species.  For the more serious snorkelling and diving, the hotel has it’s own dive school and floating jettys to take you straight into the depths.

The hustle and bustle of Naama Bay is just a short trip away.  The shopping is varied but not for the faint hearted – do try haggling for your purchases!  Alternatively take a trip in to Soho Square which has a choice of bars, resturants, coloured fountains and even an ice skating rink.

There are some great trips from the Sultan gardens which provide the opprtunity to meet Bedouins in their camps, ride camels, try locally prepared food (and even help make it) and the most amazing star gazing I’ve been lucy enough to experience.

Sultan Gardens is also right next door to an 18 hole Golf Course and across the street from the Sharm El Sheikh Botanical Gardens.

Lapland

Holidays to Lapland are extremely popular, particularly in the winter months. As Christmas draws nearer, families head to Lapland to experience the magic of the holiday season. However, Lapland offers more than just snow to its annual visitors. With each season come new changes in the country.

So the weather will very much depend upon what time of year you arrive. Lapland holidays also introduce you to hilly regions, aapa bogs which are packed full of beautiful bird life and vast river waterways.

You’ll find that the culture in the country has a mixture of Sweden, Russia and Norway; it’s bordering countries. What you will find is that the cultures vary a lot between the different regions of Lapland.

Lapland’s Main Attractions

If you take advantage of winter holidays to Lapland, you’ll get to take part in fun activities such as snowmobile safaris and husky sledge rides.

This is one of the most popular attractions in the country. Tourists come from far and wide to experience the rush that you get when you step onto the husky sleigh. Slightly more unique attractions on Lapland holidays include hot air balloon rides and helicopter sightseeing trips. Imagine seeing all that Lapland has to offer from the air. It will be an experience you won’t forget in a hurry!

The Sallivaara Reindeer Roundup Site is another attraction you won’t want to miss. It was originally built in 1933 and the roundup of Reindeer would usually last up to 2 weeks. It was a social event in Northern Lapland. These days you can stay in the wooden cabins and in the summer months if you book Lapland holidays to this part of the country then you’ll get to see a wide variety of birds.

If you love taking in a little history then no holidays to Lapland would be complete without a visit to the Siida Museum.

It is known to be one of Finland’s best museums and it mainly features a look into Lapland’s nature and ecology.

If you’re going on Lapland Holidays near Rovaniemi then you should definitely head to the zoo. It is packed full of Finnish animals and it has plenty to do for the whole family. As well as looking at the impressive animal displays, your kids can enjoy horseback rides and there’s even a little minikart circuit.

As you can see, holidays to Lapland offer so much more than you might first imagine.

Dining Out in Lapland

If you are in the Rovaniemi area then the Gaissa restaurant is definitely worth a look. While there’s only a short menu, you’ll find many local delicacies and it has a nice relaxing atmosphere.

Kaamasen Kievari is one of the most popular places to eat in Lapland. It is a fantastic roadhouse which serves up local dishes such as reindeer, salmon and whitefish.

The food will mainly be local Finnish delicacies. However, there’s also a great selection of local fish dishes available too. The food is fresh and delicious.

All in all, everyone should consider holidays to Lapland. Whether you go in winter, spring, summer or autumn, there will always be plenty to see and do.

Turkey

Holidays to Turkey have risen dramatically in popularity over the past decade. It is such a varied country with plenty to offer and it’s officially known as the Republic of Turkey. It has a unique location and four different seas border it. You will witness some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach holiday or a cultured city break; there’s something to suit everyone with Turkey holidays.

The Natural Wonders of Turkey

There are many natural wonders in Turkey that you won’t want to miss. You’ll find that a lot of these are protected in national parks. There are around 40 national parks in the country. One of the most beautiful natural wonders can be found in central Anatolia. There you’ll find the remains of extinct volcanos. The landscape has a magical moon-like design. You’ll be blown away by its beauty.

When you look into holidays to Turkey you’ll find most parts of the country have signs of volcanos. There are plenty of thermal springs dotted around. You’ll also find many waterfalls and beautiful canyons.

Must See Attractions

Turkey holidays offer a wide variety of attractions. If you travel to the mountainous regions of the country then skiing is a popular activity on offer.

Most people associate holidays to Turkey with hot sunny beaches. While there are many gorgeous sandy beaches to be enjoyed, there are also colder parts of the country where you can enjoy various outdoor extreme sports.

Golf is another popular activity in the country. There are fantastic golf courses including the Carya Golf Club which was designed by Peter Thomson.

Culture is one of the main reasons why many people opt for Turkey holidays. If you would prefer to explore the culture of the country then head to the St. Sophia Museum. The Ephesus is also a popular tourist attraction. It is one of the world’s best-preserved ancient cities. The Temple of Artemis was situated in Ephesus and it is one of the Seven Wonders of the World. There really are so many museums, temples and ancient sites to explore on holidays to Turkey.

Top Places to Visit

Turkey holidays have something to suit all ages and preferences. The most popular parts of the country include:

– Istanbul
– Marmaris
– Ankara
– Antalya

Istanbul is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Turkey. You’ll always find discount offers on Istanbul Turkey holidays. If you do head to Istanbul then the Sultanhmet District is a must see. It’s a great place to shop and there are plenty of historic walking areas.

Marmaris holidays to Turkey are known for its beautiful coastlines. You should also sample the local wines while you’re there. The weather stays nice right through until the end of October too.

The capital city of Turkey, Ankara is home to fantastic upscale shopping centres and there’s plenty of entertainment. It’s the second largest city in the country and is popular with tourists around the world.

Antalya is known for its wide selection of history and art. It’s a fascinating area with lots of cultural attractions.

These are just some of the most popular parts of the country. One of the great advantages of holidays to Turkey includes the fact that they are affordable. You’ll always be able to find a good deal no matter what time of year you go.

Tunisia

Despite its small size, Tunisia has a long and varied history that even a larger country would be proud of. The sandy Mediterranean Coast, fascinating culture and beautiful climate help to keep people coming back year after year for holidays to Tunisia.

Understanding the Area

The people who make up Tunisia are incredibly varied. You’ll find cultures that have migrated, invaded and moved into the country. This makes Tunisia holidays popular with people from all over the world.  The country has plenty of historic monuments to check out. Tunis is one of the most popular tourist destinations. It’s important in the Islamic world as it’s one of the wealthiest and greatest cities open to explore. There’s an impressive 700 monuments to explore.

Tunisia holidays benefit from both a Mediterranean and an African climate. Different parts of the country have a different climate. If you head to Southern Tunisia you’ll find that it’s typically hotter than most other parts of the country. The Jerid has a very hot and dry climate, whereas northern Tunisia has mild winters and hot summers.

The smallest country within Africa, holidays to Tunisia have something for everyone. It was also one of the locations where Star Wars was filmed.

Main Attractions to Visit

No holidays to Tunisia would be complete without a trip to the beach. There are many beautiful beaches around the country and La Marsa, RAF RAF beach and Mahdia Beach are just three of the most popular.

La Marsa is known to be a chic, white sand beach. You’ll see many beautiful people on this popular tourist beach. RAF RAF beach is incredibly beautiful. The beach opens up beneath you as you drive through the mountain road, leaving you breathless by its beauty. Finally if you prefer to take part in water sports then the Mahdia beach is the best place to head to.

The Red Lizard Train is another must see attraction when you book holidays to Tunisia. This passenger train dates back to the 19^th Century and it takes you on a 45 minute journey to Redeyef.

You can also take part in slightly unusual Tunisia holidays by booking a wild boar hunting experience. Of course if you’d prefer not to hunt wild boar, you could always opt for simple horseback riding. It’s a great way to take in the beautiful scenery of the country.

Another unique way to see the delights of Tunisia is via a hot air balloon. Aeroasis takes you on a hot air balloon flight over the Sahara desert.

Shopping in Tunisia

Holidays to Tunisia also provide you with plenty of shopping opportunities. You’ll find so many different and interesting buys. There’s plenty of monuments to be found in Sousse Medina. There are many traditional stores, as well as souvenir shops.

The Central Market is also another fantastic shopping destination. It dates all the way back to the 19^th century. There’s a large collection of local foods to enjoy including cheese, olives and fresh breads.

Overall Tunisia holidays will leave you wanting more. It’s a beautiful country with plenty to offer both locals and tourists alike.

Malta

Malta holidays have long been a firm favourite amongst people from all over the world. It has a mythical feel with beautiful landscapes and medieval style towns. You’ll find plenty of narrow winding streets which take you to the main square. It has often been described as an open air museum thanks to the medieval towers and ancient structures found all around the country.

The island has a fascinating history which dates all the way back to the start of civilisation. You’ll find traces of the Roman, Neolithic, Carthaginians and Phoenicians period all over the island.

Malta Attractions

When you book holidays to Malta, you’ll find there are numerous fascinating attractions to discover. Around 1.2 million visitors flock to the island every single year. You’ll often find fantastic deals for Malta holidays both online and in local travel agencies.

If you have money to burn then you may want to try out the Malta Experience. This is a audio-visual experience which lasts for 45 minutes. You will learn all kinds of fascinating information about Malta and Malta holidays. It is quite expensive but it’s definitely recommended to first time visitors if you can afford it.

If you are most interested in holidays to Malta which feature a little history and culture then the Cathedral Museum could be just what you’re looking for. You’ll find many works of art by Caravaggio. The San Anton Palace and Gardens is also a popular cultural experience. It is located between Attard and Lija and the palace was built back in the 17^th century. It is now home to the President of Malta.

If it’s family fun you’re looking for on holidays to Malta, you’ll want to head to the Jokers Family Entertainment Centre. Here you’ll find carnival style rides, children’s games, amusement machines and plenty of prizes to be won. It’s a great day out for the whole family.

If you just want Malta holidays which feature nothing but lazy days on the beach then you’ll be spoilt for choice. Anchor Bay is one of the most popular beaches on the island. It is most famous for being the location where the Popeye film was made. You can visit Popeye Village while you’re there too.

Balluta Bay is perhaps one of the busiest beaches, particularly in the summer months. It is mainly popular with sunbathers. If you are searching for a picturesque beach then the Blue Lagoon is definitely the right spot to head to. It features sparkling blue waters and has been used in several films including ‘Swept Away’ and ‘Troy’.

Tourists who regularly go on holidays to Malta, often spend a lot of their time shopping. The island has quite diverse shopping opportunities. No matter what you need, you’ll easily be able to find it in Malta. On Tuesdays you’ll be able to sample the popular open air Cospicua market. There are also a few great shopping centres including the Embassy Shopping Centre and the Arcadia Shopping Centre.

All in all there is so much to see and do when you opt for Malta holidays. It’s a magical island and it brings tourists back year after year.

Gibraltar

First time visitors who choose holidays to Gibraltar are typically blown away by the picturesque scenery, gorgeous climate and vast amount of attractions. No matter whom you are travelling with or what you are into, there will always be plenty to suit your preferences.

Why Choose Gibraltar Holidays?

One of the main reasons why many people choose Gibraltar holidays is because it offers a VAT free shopping experience. Eager to elevate your online shopping game? We’ve had great experiences with https://www.shoppok.com and suggest you try it out.

There are also many activities on offer in this fantastic city. You can take part in rock touring, diving, snorkelling and even bird watching. It features just 7 miles of property, yet there is so much to see and do. Therefore it would be a good idea to pick the attractions you are most interested in seeing before you go.

The locals are incredibly friendly and kind. Those who do take advantage of holidays to Gibraltar will find that the locals are more than happy to share their knowledge of the area.

Main Attractions

There are plenty of attractions in this small city. Perhaps the most famous attraction that many people book holidays to Gibraltar to see is Gibraltar Rock. You can see out to Africa from one side and towards the Mediterranean and Atlantic on the other side. The views really are unbelievable.

You may also like to take a walk down the path which leads to the St Michaels Cave. This is one of the most beautiful parts of Gibraltar.

If you love wildlife you’ll enjoy the Ape’s Den. This is one of the more unique attractions you’ll find on Gibraltar holidays. The Barbary Apes are roam around the area are known to be the only free-roaming primates within Europe. While they can be cute and fun to watch, these primates are very mischievous so you’ll need to keep that in mind.

If you’d like to take in a little culture then the Gibraltar Museum is a must see. It is located right in the middle of the city and it’s not far away from Main Street and the Roman Catholic Cathedral. So you could take in a little culture and then spend the rest of the day shopping.

Dining Out in Gibraltar

Gibraltar holidays are known for their al fresco dining and café culture. There is so much choice available and you’ll find cuisine from all over the world. If you like fashionable, modern restaurants then head to Casemates Square.

Beach Life

No holidays to Gibraltar would be complete without a trip to one of the many beautiful beaches in the city. Catalan Bay is one of the best ones to head to if you are looking for a quiet, uncrowded beach.

However if you’re looking for a more built up resort style beach then Camp Bay could be more your thing.

All in all Gibraltar holidays have something to suit everyone. Beautiful weather, VAT free shopping and friendly and welcoming locals all make this a fantastic city to visit.

Cyprus

Cyprus holidays tend to be particularly popular with couples. This is thanks to its romantic and interesting history. It is officially known as the Republic of Cyprus and human activity dates all the way back to 10^th Millennium BC. It’s also known as the year round island where the weather is gorgeous no matter what time of year you visit. This is one of the world’s most beautiful islands and for that reason it is a popular wedding destination.

Attractions You Can Enjoy on Holidays to Cyprus

When you’re looking into holidays to Cyprus, you’ll find that a lot of the attractions are cultural. There are so many sights to take in and it’s impossible to see everything in one trip.

The Petra tou Romiou, otherwise known more commonly as Aphrodite’s Rock and Beach is the most popular beach in the whole of Cyprus. This mythical beach is one of the main reasons why many couples book holidays to Cyprus.

The beach is truly breathtaking so you won’t want to forget your camera! There are two upright style rocks that appear to just walk right out of the water. You’ll often see swimmers sitting on top of these rocks.

Pafos Mosaics is another popular tourist attraction. You’ll find many colourful mosaics that are beautiful to look at. These mosaics were actually found by accident in 1962. It is thought to be from the Roman period and it is thought to be the remains of a large house that belonged to the wealthy romans.

Dining Out in Cyprus

One thing that you won’t want to miss while you’re holidaying in Cyprus is the fine dining experience that awaits. Seven St Georges Tavern is one of the best places to eat on the island. Everything that is offered in this restaurant is dried, grown or pickled organically. There’s an herb garden around the back of the restaurant as well as a meat-smoking cabin. You’ll struggle to find nicer, fresher food anywhere else.

Sienna in Paphos is also extremely popular. It features excellent value for money as well as fresh, delicious food.

One thing is for sure when you visit this wonderful island – the food really is out of this world!

The Best Beaches to Visit

Of course Cyprus holidays are known for their fabulous beaches. As well as the Petra tou Romiou, there are plenty of other worthy beaches to mention. The Blue Flag Phinikoudes Beach is just one of them. It is most famous for its beautiful palm trees that were originally planted in 1922.

It has plenty of facilities for tourists and it also has lots of café’s, bars and luxury hotels around the area.

Other worthy beaches to mention include the Green Bay and Kapparis Beach, which is also a Blue Flag beach.

When booking holidays to Cyprus, make sure that you plan what attractions you would most like to visit. There really is so much to see that you’ll struggle to fit it all in within one visit.

Cape Verde

Located 500km from the coast of Senegal, the Cape Verde Islands are volcanic islands that are incredibly popular with tourists. Holidays to Cape Verde Islands feature a moderate climate and a very high quality of living. The islands have a stable economic and political system. Things haven’t always been so great however. In the past the islands have suffered with a drought which resulted in famine. These days while the famine is over, you still get the feeling that every grain that is grown is very precious.

One of the best things about Cape Verde Islands holidays is the wide range of landscapes. Frozen lava surrounds the volcanic peak. There are also stunning beaches and great hiking trails to explore. While you do get many package holidays to Cape Verde Islands, it does tend to be a destination most popular with independent hikers and explorers.

Main Attractions in the Area

The attractions vary from island to island. The most popular of the islands is Sal Island.

This is where the international airport is located and it has fantastic links to Ireland and the UK as well as many other parts of the world. Sal Island has more night clubs, restaurants and pizzerias than any of the other Cape Verde Islands holidays.

If you’re booking holidays to Cape Verde Islands for relaxation purposes, you may want to head to the Boa Vista Island. There are miles of empty beaches and sand dunes on the island. The airport runway has also been extended. It’s one of the most picturesque and quiet islands.

If you like Cape Verde Islands holidays with plenty of entertainment then Sao Vicente Island could be the best place to head to. There’s plenty of songs and music to be enjoyed. You can reach the island via Santiago or Sal Island.

If you want to head to a remote part of the Cape Verde Islands then Maio island is ideal. It has plenty of fine, undisturbed beaches to be enjoyed. Or if you’re looking for picturesque holidays to Cape Verde Islands then Santo Antao is a great island to visit. It has some of the most beautiful views you will ever see.

One of the most popular attractions includes night-time turtle excursions. You’ll get to see Loggerhead Turtles in their natural environment. The excursions run from July through until October. Scuba diving is another popular tourist activity. No Cape Verde Islands holidays would be complete without a scuba diving trip. You’ll get to discover ship wrecks and explore the warm waters of Cape Verde.

It doesn’t matter what you’re looking for, there will always be Cape Verde Islands holidays to suit your preferences.

Dining out on the islands is a fantastic experience. You’ll find mouth-watering local cuisine. It’s all fresh and the flavours are fantastic.

Overall Cape Verde holidays will leave you wanting to come back year after year. If you’re looking for a relaxing, unforgettable experience then you won’t be disappointed. No matter how long you are going for and what you want to experience, there will be something to suit you.

Bulgaria

In the past, holidays to Bulgaria were mainly considered to be cheap and popular with students. It did used to have a budget reputation, though these days it is a much different country.

One of the main reasons why people choose to have holidays to Bulgaria is because of the Black Sea Coast. You’ll find plenty of picturesque beaches and bays.

However, there’s a lot more to Bulgaria holidays than just the beaches. One of the great advantages to this great destination is the fact that a lot of it remains largely unexplored by tourists.

Exploring the Bulgarian Countryside

Bulgaria holidays are perfect for those who love to explore beautiful landscapes. You can explore the mountains via horseback or by hiking the picturesque trails. You’ll even have the chance to see various wildlife including lynx, bears and rare birds.

Travelling around the country is easy thanks to the great transport links. The public transport is quite cheap to use. You’ll notice that the pace of life in Bulgaria is quite slow and relaxed. This is another reason why many tourists choose holidays to Bulgaria. It’s the perfect place to relax and unwind such as with the use of products like CBD Oil UK.

Top Attractions to Visit

Borisova Gradina is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Bulgaria. It features plenty of greenery and you’ll find the Maria Luisa Pool, the Vasil Levski Stadium and many tennis courts and bike tracks.

If you would prefer Bulgaria holidays that feature uncrowded beaches then head to Burgas Beach.

It isn’t as beautiful as some of the more popular beaches in the country, however it is quite popular with locals. It’s the posh bars and restaurants in the area that make it worth a visit.

If you like windsurfing then this is a great beach to head to, though it isn’t ideal for swimming.

The Smolyan Art Gallery is perfect for those who prefer to take in a bit of culture on their holiday. It is located opposite a museum and it has more than 1800 paintings. National, local and foreign artists work is exhibited.

The Mineral Baths are another great attraction to visit. They are also referred to as the Turkish Baths and it was built around 1911.

Dining Out and Shopping in Bulgaria

Whether you’re into vegetarian, seafood, Italian or Indian cuisine, there will be something to suit your tastes around the country. If you head to Sofia and you are looking for vegetarian food then look out for Dream House. It’s located within a shopping arcade and it offers an all-you-can-eat buffet on Sundays.

Bulgaria holidays offer a fantastic range of fresh, delicious foods. When it comes to shopping you’ll also find a great selection of goods at the many markets located around the country. There’s shopping arcades, markets and interesting local independent stores to browse through.

While times have changed, Bulgaria holidays are still extremely affordable. It is the value for money, the culture and the vast array of attractions available that help to make holidays to Bulgaria so popular.

Verona

Where Romeo met Juliet

Take a holiday to Verona in northern Italy to experience a beautiful city in which you can truly imagine Shakespeare’s most romantic play still taking place.  Verona is known as little Rome in deference to the city’s importance during the 13^th and 14^th centuries.  This was the age of family feuding under the ruling Scaligeri family, the backdrop to the Bard’s tale of the pain of young love.

The city was one of the prime cornerstones of the Roman Empire, and your holiday to Verona should take in the many Roman ruins preserved there.

The city grew in importance due to its position at the intersection of many ancient roads, and for many years was considered the seat of the Italian government.  In 1630 Verona fell foul of plague, with over 60% of its residents dying from the disease.  Between 1798 and 1866 Verona was controlled by the Austrian Empire before returning to Italian rule following the Six Weeks War, and has been part of Italy ever since.

Getting to Italy for your Verona holiday can be done either by air or road.  Verona has one major airport, Catullo, which located eight miles or so from the city.  Driving to Verona isn’t difficult at all from all parts of mainland Europe.  As with most of the built-up areas of Italy, driving within the city is not recommended due to congestion and parking issues.  Travelling by foot or bus is much preferable.

A Verona holiday is mainly one of sight-seeing and relaxation.  Verona is a peaceful place in comparison to the hectic pace of Rome or Milan, and never becomes overstuffed with tourists.

Verona’s most impressive sight is the Arena, an incredible Roman amphitheatre built two thousand years ago and still in use today.  If you are holidaying in Verona at the right time of year you should be able to take in an opera there.

For a more modern nod to the Shakespeare connection during your holiday in Verona you should take a look at the Casa di Giulietta, supposedly the location of the talismanic balcony scene in Romeo and Juliet.  The courtyard is often full of teenage sweethearts photographing themselves, tenderly forgetting the fact the characters were entirely fictitious and the balcony was only added in 1936.  If you prefer your sight-seeing to be more grounded in reality Verona has an excellent range of castles, gardens and art museums all worthy of your perusal.

For accommodation during your Verona holiday you can expect the range of options you’d find in any major European destination, from top class hotels to captivating B&Bs, holiday farms and youth hostels.  One word of warning though, for twelve weeks between June and September each year it is Opera season in Verona and finding “on the spot” accommodation in the City during this period will involve a lot of walking and fruitless phone calls, so booking in advance is essential.

Another important note is to know that when you see cavallo on a restaurant menu it is referring to horse-meat.  This is a Veronese favourite that tourists from other parts of the world may find unpalatable.

A Verona holiday will see you enjoy the sights, sounds and history of a beautiful and romantic city.  Book your holiday to Verona for a tranquil and memorable experience of life in Italy.

Sicily

A Mediterranean mash-up

Sicily is a large, rugged and attractive volcanic island to the south of the Italian mainland, separated from the rest of Italy by the three miles of the Straits of Messina.  A holiday in Sicily will see you cower under the magnificent Etna, the impressive active volcano that rises nearly 11,000 feet over the Ionian Sea.

It’s the highest mountain in Italy and by far the largest of the three active volcanoes in Italy, the others being Vesuvius and Stromboli.  The philosopher Empedicles is allegedly to have been the first to attempt to climb the ‘column of the sky’.

A Sicily holiday marries ancient archaeology and history with breathtaking scenery and saliva-inducing food.  Sicily has been invaded and conquered many times in its long history, from the Greeks and Romans to the Arabs and the Spanish.  Every part of the island reflects a different aspect of this varied mix of cultures, which makes a holiday in Sicily such a fascinating experience.

Sicily has two main airports in Palermo and Catania, plus there are smaller airports in Trapani and Ragusa.  Alternatively, you could incorporate a holiday in Sicily with a longer vacation on the Italian mainland, as rail services from Italy cross to Sicily via railferry at Messina.  Whilst on the ferry you are allowed to disembark and enjoy the views across the sea.

Accommodation when it comes to your Sicily holiday depends upon your personal choice.  All of Sicily’s major cities, such as Agrigento, Catania, Cefalù, Palermo, Siracusa, Taorima and Messina have excellent hotels.

You will also find more rustic B&Bs, villas and self-catering departments.  Guest farms are a very popular option in Sicily; such farms offer a different style of accommodation at an affordable rate.  If you visiting outside of the period between late Spring and early Autumn make sure the rooms you rent are heated as Sicily can get a little chilly at night.

Most of your sight-seeing whilst on holiday in Sicily will be done on foot.  Old Palermo is a maze of narrow lanes and is often choked with traffic, so a walking tour is the best way to experience this ancient region.

The famous Mount Etna is worth tackling if you feel you have the energy and stamina.  There are a number of hiking routes up to the “summit zone”, plus there are the options of taking a jeep or the cable car.

If you intend to venture up under your own steam be sure you have a proper guide and are aware that it is a very tough climb. For a more moderate Sicily holiday you need to venture no further than one of the island’s many splendid beaches.

The majority of them are clean and the sparklingly clear waters of the Med are a definite feature.  The island is also home to over a dozen nature reserves and protected marine areas, all of which are definitely worth a browse.

A feature of your Sicily holiday will be the traditional Sicilian cuisine, particularly the islander’s love of desserts.  Try ‘cannoli’ which are pastry tubes filled with sweet ricotta cheese, or ‘cassata’, a cake with Arabic influences.  Sicily also produces some fine wines, but the islanders are not big drinkers and drunken behaviour is severely frowned upon.

A Sicily holiday allows you to experience many aspects of Mediterranean culture beyond that you’d find in mainland Italy, France or Spain.  Book your holiday to Sicily for a unique vacation the memories of which you will treasure forever.

Sardinia

 A chance to time-travel over 300 years

Sardinia is a large island in the Tyrrhenian Sea, between the Balearic islands which include Majorca and Ibiza, and the Italian peninsula.  If ancient history and its appreciation number amongst your interests, then a holiday in Sardinia could be just the thing for you.

Sardinia is one of the oldest civilised places in the whole of Europe, with its ancient Nuragic civilisation dating back to 1500BC, far before that of Italy itself.  This beautiful Mediterranean island is also perfect for swimming, boating, hiking, climbing and camping, so if you’ve ticked off one or two of your hobbies from that list, a Sardinia holiday is ideal for you.

Your Sardinia holiday will most likely be centred in one of three areas, those being Cagliari, where one third of the whole island’s population lives, to the south, or Sassari and Olbia to the north.

There are also less tourist-based areas such as Alghero, Bosa, La Maddalena, Nuoro, Oristano and Porto Torres.  Most of the interior of the island is unpopulated and undeveloped aside from a handful of villages.  A holiday in Sardinia will see you enjoy a typically balmy Mediterranean climate, especially from mid-May to mid-October.  Beware though, Sardinia is prone to heavy rainfall, particularly in the late autumn, winter and early spring months,

Cagliari is the island’s capital city and has its own airport.  For a relaxing Sardinia holiday, you can spend as much time as you desire on the beautiful Poetto Beach, which stretches for nearly five miles.  Cagliari offers much in its picturesque old town which is built on a very steep hill.  Shopaholics can attend to their retail needs in the parts of the town called Via Alghero, Via Paoli and Via Dante.

A holiday in Sardinia must feature a sampling of Italy’s finest cuisine, and the old towns presents frequent opportunities to sample authentic pizzas, pasta and Sardinia’s famous seafood.

Sassari is Sardinia’s second-largest city and has a diverse heritage with both Spanish and Italian influences.  Founded in the early middle ages, Sassari has actually been inhabited since the New Stone Age and contains numerous important archaeological sites and ruins.  If you want on your Sardina holiday to travel further back in time than you’ve ever travelled before then Sassari should satisfy you.  There are also numerous museums and research centres.

For a gentler holiday in Sardinia Olbia makes a perfect tourist base.  Certainly less dense than either Cagliari or Sassari, Olbia is the only centre of population in its area and is reachable via ferry from mainland Italy.  It has a handful of excellent restaurants, hotels and bars.

Alghero is a historic old town with Catalan influences, so for something a little different when it comes to your Sardinia holiday you could set up in what is known as little Barcelona.  The atmospheric old town is home to many bars and cafés and the restaurants in Alghero are particularly known for their fine seafood.  Out of the city you’ll find the splendid beaches at La Pelosa and the charming little medieval town of Bosa.

A holiday in Sardinia definitely offers you something unique; a centuries-old island influenced by many civilisations, both ancient and contemporary.  Book your Sardinia holiday and experience everything that Italy has to offer in the highest terms.

Rome

When in Rome…

Rome is of course the capital of Italy and by far the largest city in the country.  It is also one of the most historic cities on the entire globe.  If you holiday in Rome you will see churches, ruins, monuments and statues that date back over two thousand years.  As a city it is utterly captivating, being visited by millions of tourists every year for its inimitable history, vivacious nightlife, celebrated shopping and exceptional cuisine.

Rome is divided into several districts.  Your sight-seeing and camera-snapping whilst on holiday in Rome will largely take place in the small centres of the sprawling city known as Old Rome and Colosseo.

As its name suggests, the Colosseo is home to the Colosseum and is the heart of ancient Rome with many other Forums and museums.  Old Rome reflects the city’s medieval period with attractive plazas and cathedrals.

This area is also home to the Pantheon, the famous temple commissioned by Marcus Agrippa and completed in 126AD.

North of Old Rome is The Vatican, The Papal City State with a population of around 800.  This is of course home to the Pope and an everlasting trove of treasures, sights, relics and museums.  A visit to the breath-taking St Peter’s Square is essential.  Adjacent to Old Rome and Colosseo is the Modern Centre, the best place for accommodation for your Rome holiday if you intend to spend your entire vacation exploring the city and enjoying all it has to offer.  Here you will also find the famous Trevi fountain, and numerous places to enjoy an unforgettable meal.

If you want to ease the burden on your pocket during your holiday in Rome, be sure to visit in mid-May during La settimana dei beni culturali when all the famous Italian landmarks are open for 7 to 10 days free of charge.

As you might imagine, this is a very crowded time.  One thing to be aware of, Italians expect you to be respectfully dressed when visiting their many historic monuments; some churches will deny you admission if you even have bare shoulders or knees.

Rome is increasingly becoming a venue where you can enjoy the party life.  In the San Lorenzo area you will find many bars and clubs catering for the young and those young at heart.  Italians like to drink but in moderation, so excessive drunken behaviour will be met with heavy punishment.  Romans are genuinely polite and respectful, especially when treated as such by those on holiday in Rome.  Don’t take offence when queues disintegrate though, this is just the Italian way.

Driving in Rome should be avoided at all costs if you’re a tourist.  Traffic is habitually heavy and the rules of the road disintegrate at frantic times.  Once you’re in the centre of Rome on holiday it’s best to go by foot or use the Metro, bus or tram.  Rome has two excellent international airports, Ciampino and Leonardo da Vinci/Fiumicino.  You can take the train into central Rome from both.

Italy is of course famous for its food and no holiday in Rome is complete without experiencing some fine Roman dining.  Often the best restaurants can be found in residential areas.  Don’t be lured into ‘tourist traps’ where you’ll pay over the odds for mundane food.  Italians love their food and love to cook.

As a holiday destination, Rome really has it all; an enthralling history, centuries-old monuments, exotic nightlife and exceptional cuisine.  Book your holiday to Rome for an experience like nothing else on Earth.