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.

Parma

Opera, fine cuisine and the good life

Think Parma and you think Parma Ham, the quintessential prosciutto – a delicate cured ham and the standard all other types of salami are measured against.

A holiday in Parma will see you descend into a graceful city famed for incredible ancient architecture, magnificent artworks and delicate cuisine.  Is there a better lunch in the world than sitting in the sunshine outside a bistro, with a glass of Lambrusco, a few slices of the eponymous ham, a chunk of Parmigaino-Reggiano cheese and a basket of ciabatta?

Parma was founded as a Roman colony and has switched between French and Italian rule a handful of times, but has fallen under Italian jurisdiction since 1860.

The city is split in two by a little stream with the same name.  During your Parma holiday it is worth taking in a visit to the University, which is one of the oldest and most historic seats of education in the world having been established in the 11^th century.

The city is well-served by its eponymously-named airport, a mere one and a half miles north of the metropolitan area.

Your Parma holiday accommodation is dependent upon your budget.  There are a large number of city centre hotels to meet all monetary requirements.

Parma is surrounded by attractive countryside, meaning there many options when it comes to bed and breakfast or farmhouse-style accommodation.  You will need your own transportation to get into city.  Vehicular access is limited within the centre but there are several parking garages around the outskirts and everything within the city centre is easily reachable by foot.

Sight-seeing forms an integral part of a Parma holiday, as this is a place proud of its heritage.  Be sure to check out the two main city squares, the Piazza Duomo and the Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi.  You will simply be amazed when you learn the buildings here date back almost nine hundred years.  You may also wish to visit the Museo Glauco Lombardi, a museum dedicated to life of Maria Luigia, second wife of Napoleon Bonaparte and the Duchess of Parma.

You can’t really experience a holiday in Parma without taking an appreciation of former Parma resident Giuseppe Verdi.  The much-loved composer was born and spent most of his life in Busseto, a village north west of Parma.  The Festival Verdi celebrates the composer’s life and greatest works throughout the month of October every year.

For your meals whilst on holiday in Parma you are spoilt for choice.  There are countless restaurants, bistros and time-honoured eateries.  Your meal will traditionally consist of a selection of cured meats for a starter, a pasta dish with liberal sprinklings of parmesan for your main and a gelato (ice cream) for dessert.

All washed down with one of Italy’s many excellent wines, of course.  Eating is Italy is an intense pleasure, as you are never rushed, over-attended to or pressured into ordering more food.

Parma is a city whose citizens have established a wonderful culinary climate and a graceful way of enjoying life throughout the centuries.  Take a holiday to Palma to experience the peaceful way that most Italians have chosen to live for hundreds of years.

Milan

The Fashion Capital of the World

If you’re contemplating a holiday to Milan, let’s face it, you are going to be busy.  Milan is the marketplace for global fashion with aficionados, world-famous models and paparazzi from every major newspaper and magazine descending upon the city for its spring and autumn fairs.  Whilst Rome, the Italian capital, represents everything historic about this passionate country, Milan represents everything that is new and modern.  A Milan holiday is all about pleasure; retail therapy, football, opera, and fantastic nightlife.

Milan was originally settled in 400BC but fell to the empire of Rome two hundred years later where it became the capital of the Western Roman Empire.

In the middle ages it became an important trade centre and later for a while was ruled by France, Spain and then Austria, returning to Italian rule in 1861.  Your holiday to Milan will see you located in the Po Valley, between the Ticino and Adda rivers with the majestic Alps to the north of you.

If you prefer a warm environment, make sure your holiday to Milan takes place during the summer.  Winters can be cold and wet, although summers can become oppressive and humid.  Late Spring and late summer are usually the best times to visit.  Milan has two airports, Linate and Malpensa, both of which handle hundreds of thousands of passengers every day.  Moving around Milan is exceptionally simple, via the underground train system, trams, buses or taxis.  Driving in Milan can be an exasperating hassle, as traffic is often blocked and parking is a problem.

When it comes to sight-seeing for your holiday in Milan it’s often tough to know just where to start as there is just so much to see, from museums to churches and monuments to buildings that will take your breath away.  Tourist maps are readily available all over the city to help you.  The Duomo, or Cathedral of Milan, is one of the most stunning buildings in the world and took nearly half a century to complete.  It has 135 spires and 3200 statues just on its roof.  You can take an elevator to the rooftop for awe-inspiring views of the city below.

A Milan holiday gives you a chance to view Leonardo Da Vinci’s stunning fresco, the Last Supper.  This amazing and famous (think The Da Vinci Code) artwork is housed in the 15^th century Convent of Santa Maria della Grazie.  Please note you will need to book in advance.  In the centre of Milan you will find the Castello Sforzesco, home to many museums and full of interesting artefacts and examples of Italian architecture.

If on your Milan holiday you want to experience some true Italian culture you can’t go far wrong by booking to see an opera at La Scala, one of Italy’s most historic opera houses which first opened its doors in 1778.

If opera is not really your cup of tea you can instead experience some of the most vibrant nightlife available anywhere in the world.  The Brera gallery and Navigli areas of the city are full of lively bars, stunning restaurants and busy nightclubs.  Partying starts at six in the evening with an aperitif and continues until four in the morning.  Often venues have live acts and world-famous DJs.  If your wilder days are beyond you don’t worry, you’ll be able to find quieter venues for a relaxing meal.

A holiday in Milan means paradise for shoppers and fans of fashion, fantastic cuisine, football and fun in an energetic, modern city. Instead of splurging on original luxury watches, you may purchase a rolex replica watch online.

 Book your Milan holiday so you can truly appreciate this historic, beautiful and vivacious part of Italy.

Corsica

A holiday in Corsica will see you experience a charismatic and beautiful mix of rock-laden plains, expansive forests and the crystal clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea.  This French-owned island is the fourth largest in the Med and is heavily influenced by its past associations with Italian culture.

Separated from its sister island Sardinia by the Strait of Bonifacio, Corsica boasts of ancient origins and natural beauty, and has for many years been a popular holiday destination for tourists who appreciate nature and unspoilt geography.  Corsica is also known as the birthplace of Napoleon and for its fine wines.

The island has been populated since prehistoric times, and has been owned during its more contemporary history by the ancient Greeks, the Roman Republic, the Vandals, France and even Great Britain.  Between 1755 and 1769 Corsica was itself an independent republic.

Corsica was formed through volcanic activity and therefore understandably is the most mountainous island in the Mediterranean.  It has over 600 miles of coastline and over 200 beaches whilst 3,350 square miles of the island is covered by nature reserves making a holiday in Corsica much prized by hikers.

To start your Corsica holiday you have two main methods of getting to the island, namely plane or ferry.  Corsica has four airports, at Ajaccio, Bastia, Calvi and Figari sud Corse.  All these airports are small but are clean and perfectly serviceable.  You may alternatively take ferries from the French and Italian mainland.

Getting around the island during your holiday in Corsica is best done by hire car as public transportation is scant and infrequent, but beware of intense traffic jams at busy periods.

A Corsica holiday is definitely a beach holiday.  The island has many excellent beaches and you can enjoy some of the clearest waters in the Mediterranean.

If you desire something a little more adventurous you could try snorkelling, windsurfing, kite-surfing or even scuba-diving.  The atmosphere remains welcoming come the evening so you can sit outside and enjoy a quiet drink whilst you watch the sunset.

Your accommodation whilst on holiday in Corsica is right in your own hands.  You may select from any number of excellent hotels, self-catering apartments or villas.  The main areas to consider are Calvi, Ile Rousse, St Florente and Bastia in the north or Ajaccio, Propiano, Porto Vecchio or Figari in the south.  If you fancy something a little different choose accommodation in central Corte where you’ll wake up each morning to an amazing mountain view.

You cannot complete your Corsica holiday without taking in at least a little of the island’s unique beauty.  The whole island really is a natural wonder; the inhabitants have always worked hard to maintain a balance between human habitation and nature, and you will view towns and villages that seem to have grown out of the granite and rock rather than being built.  The island is a paradise for walkers and hikers, with miles of marked trails and guided paths.

A holiday in Corsica is guaranteed to captivate and inspire you with its diverse scenery and protection from most of the aggressive aspects of over-tourism.  You will instantly be made to feel welcome and within hours will consider Corsica like a second home.  Book your holiday to Corsica today and start to count the days until you arrive for a unique and memorable vacation experience.

Tel Aviv

With its wealth of recreational activities and sites to see, it’s no wonder this city receives over 2 million visitors from other countries every year. It’s not for nothing Tel Aviv is known as the ‘City that never sleeps’; visitors can shop at virtually any time of day (or night) and entertainment spots are plenty.

From its humble beginnings in 1909 this Israeli city has blossomed into one of the world’s most favoured tourist destinations, evidence of which is its being ranked 9^th best beach city in the world recently by the renowned National Geographic.

Sightseeing and activities

The Azrieli Observatory is a must for sightseeing as it provides the highest viewpoint over the city. It is found in the 49^th floor of the tallest building in Tel Aviv.

Apart from an excellent vantage point, the observatory furnishes tourists with a place to stuff themselves with delicious Mediterranean gourmet and also watch a 3D film on the city’s history.  If you’ve never heard about The White City then maybe it’s time you planned a holiday to Tel Aviv to discover it for yourself.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is an exhibition of a unique architectural style called Bauhaus. Most of the 4,000 buildings in this locale are white and built in the simple, smooth style that typifies Bauhaus creations.

Party animals will want to make Tel Aviv their holiday destination of choice as it has clubs and pubs of different flavours and moods among which they’re sure to get their fix. Want to chill out with your drink of choice while nodding to a selection of relaxing reggae jams? Pay a visit to Slow Moshe, especially in summer when the party moves outdoors. Hardcore clubbers will not want to pass up a night out at The TLV.

It is one of the city’s biggest clubs. If you would rather have a quiet drink and a game of pool at an English-style pub then you need to look for The Pub. Molly Blooms provides a nice Irish alternative of the same. If all you’re after is a place with no drama, an inviting ambiance and a good selection of booze, the popular Silon is the bar for you.

On paying a visit to the old port city of Jaffa which is now officially part of Tel Aviv, you will get a chance to splash about in the tepid Mediterranean waters or just laze on the soft white sand while soaking up the delicious rays.

Some of the best beaches in Tel Aviv to live out this holiday experience are the Hatzok, Tel Baruch, Gordon and Frishman beaches. These are venerable sunbather paradises featuring stretches of soft sand and a lively mixture of locals and foreigners. If you’re the sporty type you can join in a game of beach volleyball on the courts there.

For those curious about Isaeli history and culture there is the Tel Aviv Museum of Art. It contains collections of local artworks as well as those from further afield. The works of some of Europe’s leading lights such as Van Gogh and Picasso are displayed here.

Events

There is always something afoot in Tel Aviv and even in winter there are colourful events such as the Fashion Designers Bazaar. This glamorous spectacle held every January features mouth-watering pieces from top designers accompanied by plenty of beautiful music. The Passover feast in April is a very big deal in Tel Aviv as in any other part of Israel and is marked with a variety of celebrations and good cheer.

Jerusalem

While it is recognized as one of the oldest cities in the world, Israel’s capital still holds plenty of attractions for today’s traveller. For the religious it is the holy land for Christians, Muslims and Judaism followers. Though it has been a hotspot for conflict through history, Jerusalem has retained its appeal to those looking for the ideal Middle Eastern holiday.

And so if you’re looking for a place in which to have an exciting, adventure-filled experience with a spiritual twist, this ancient city is just what the doctor ordered. You’re bound to be impressed regardless of what faith you subscribe to or even if you don’t espouse any particular doctrine.

Jerusalem is choke-full of significant historical and archaeological sites as well as various museums to help you relive poignant moments in the country’s colourful past. But there is also plenty to pique the interest of nature lovers here.

Sightseeing and activities

Paying a visit to the Mount of Olives is a truly rewarding experience as you will get to view the city from the vantage point it provides. The sight of the Temple Mount is simply magnificent from here. But there are also some beautiful sights on this location including the Church of Mary Magdalene, a Russian Orthodox Church which contains a superbly done mosaic depicting the folklore about Mary.

The Garden of Gethsemane, where Christians believe that Jesus prayed before he was crucified is also on this Mount where olives were once grown. There is also a place believed to be where the remains of Virgin Mary lie known as Mary’s Tomb. A number of holidaymakers who have ventured here however regard a ride on camelback as the highlight of their visit to the Mount of Olives.

While still checking out religious landmarks, you will want to stop by the Al-Asqa Mosque, a structure initially built early in the 8^th century and then subsequently reconstructed over 5 times. It is massive; measuring a staggering 1400 square kilometres and able to hold thousands of worshippers. A word of caution about dress code when on holiday to Jerusalem, especially when touring religious sites; be sure to put on something that does not expose your arms and your legs above the knee.

While you would probably not regard your local parliament as a tourist attraction, you will probably want to see the Knesset, the building that houses the Israeli parliament as well as its Supreme Court.

You understandably won’t be allowed to go inside the Knesset but you will be able to tour the Supreme Court extensively. Both buildings are beautifully designed and landscaped and are well worth your time.

For a lively shopping experience, why not pop by the open air market at the Old City? That is you don’t mind shouldering your way through busy crowds and bargaining over whatever items capture your interest. Here you can come away with some souvenirs and unique artefacts by local artisans.

A visit to the barren wilderness that is the Judean Desert will put you in the shoes of soldiers who sought refuge in its remoteness and inaccessibility in eras gone by. While here you can pass by the amazing Mar Saba Monastery, a Greek monastery regarded as one of the most ancient in the world. This is just a sneak preview of what those who plan to spend their holidays in Jerusalem can expect.