Eilat

Situated on the shore of the Red Sea, Eilat is the southernmost city in Israel. Known as the ultimate resort location, the city is incredibly popular with tourists and it isn’t hard to see why. Holidays to Eilat offer breathtaking views, fantastic nightlife, fine dining and stunning weather. It is particularly popular in the winter months amongst Europeans who are looking to enjoy a little winter sun.

A Fascinating History

If you like cities that are steeped in culture and history then you’ll love Eilat. The city was significant in quite a few different historical periods. From the days of King Solomon to the Romans and the Crusaders; Eilat has been an important city throughout the years.

If you’re interested in culture then you may want to look into Eilat holidays which feature tours to Petra.

Accommodation Options

When booking holidays to Eilat, you’ll see that there are quite a lot of different accommodation options. No matter what your budget, you’ll be able to find at least one type of accommodation that suits you. If you’re budget conscious or you like to meet new people while on holiday, a hostel could be the best option. However, if budget is no problem then you’ll love the luxury hotels on offer.

Key Attractions

There are many things to see and do on Eilat holidays. Camel tours are quite popular, as is bird watching. One attraction that’s popular with families is the Underwater Observatory Marine Park.

You can see all kinds of marine life 4.25m below the surface of the water.

The Israel Yam Boat cruise is a great way to explore the Egyptian and Jordanian borders. You’ll travel on a glass bottom boat and the underwater scenery is truly spectacular.

Holidays to Eilat often focus primarily on the Bay. It offers plenty to do for the whole family. If you don’t like the thought of lounging around on the beautiful sandy beaches all day then you may be interested in the water sports on offer. The resort also offers one of the best diving spots in the world.

Surrounding Eilat, the beautiful Negev Desert offers desert hiking and camel treks which are extremely popular with tourists.

These are just some of the best attractions to check out when you look at Eilat holidays.

Dining Out

No matter what type of food you enjoy, you’ll find something to suit all tastes. If you love seafood then head to ‘Last Refuge’. This cosy little restaurant has been offering up fantastic seafood dishes for more than 20 years. If you are planning on having one of the special dishes then it’s recommended that you phone ahead; especially for the lobster.

No holidays to Eilat would be complete without a trip to La Cucina. This has one of the most beautiful interiors with heavenly murals and mood lighting. It’s an elegant Italian restaurant that you’ll want to visit again and again.

Holidays to Eilat really do have something to offer for everyone. You’ll notice that most people in the city are tourists. With a warm climate and 360 sunny days a year, Eilat really is one of the most beautiful cities in Israel.

Balaton

Something Completely Different

A Lake Balaton holiday is speedily becoming one of the most eagerly-sort vacation destinations in Central Europe and certainly one of the most popular destinations in Hungary.  A holiday at Lake Balaton is a unique experience.

As Hungary is a land-locked country, Lake Balaton is sometimes affectionately known as the Hungarian Sea.  It stretches for 48 miles from west to east, and has a surface area of 229 square miles.

The northern bank of the lake is home to many resorts and vineyards, whilst to the south you’ll discover a number of potential holiday sites all perfect for your Lake Balaton vacation.  You’ll adore the location’s natural geography, nature reserves and folklore.

Two cities, Siófok and Balatonfüred, compete for the title of The Capital of Balaton, and both are very different.

Also worth consideration if you’re thinking about a Lake Balaton holiday are the city of Keszthely, and the spa towns of Marcali and Hévíz.

You can start your holiday at Balaton by flying into Flybalaton airport at Sármellék, although this airport is really small.  Perhaps a better option is a flight to the Hungarian capital, Budapest, then a train down to your chosen resort.

Siófok is a town that mixes charm with an energetic nightlife and is known as the partying capital of Hungary.  The town is extremely popular with Hungarian students who journey to Siófok at the end of June when their University term finishes.

Don’t concern yourself though; Siófok remains a perfect Lake Balaton holiday destination with its range of quiet and peaceful beaches that are suitable for all ages and tastes.  Siófok’s number one destination is the Coke Club, a beach resort with many amenities and activities, including live concerts.

For a more peaceful Lake Balaton holiday, Balatonfüred is situated on the northern shore of the lake.  It is a traditional old town where most of Hungary’s heritage has been carefully maintained.  A summer trip to Balatonfüred will see you appreciate its picturesque promenades, avenues lined with trees and breathtaking panoramas of the Tihany Peninsula.  There are also a few beaches and the town has become a hub for water sports.

For the complete relaxation option when it comes to your holiday in Balaton, the spa towns of  Marcali and Hévíz are ideal.  Marcali is home to the City Spa and Leisure Centre, which was opened as recently as 2003.  Now a complete water park, the Spa also has courts for tennis, handball and basketball.

Hévíz has a much richer history.  It is said the Holy Virgin created the spa there in answer to the prayers of a nurse charged with healing an invalid child, who would go on to be the East Roman emperor Flavius Theodosius.  Hévíz is fine-tuned to tourism, with many hotels and private accommodation options.

Keszthely is the most ancient town in the Balaton region, with a history going back nearly 800 years.  It’s an architectural gem with many ancient buildings, so if you’d like your Balaton holiday to including sight-seeing, Keszthely is the place for you.

A holiday in Balaton and around the lake really does give a tourist the chance to experience something different, from the party town of Siófok to the impressive heritage of Keszthely.  Your Lake Balaton holiday will be a time in your life you will never, ever forget.

Symi

Symi is part of the Dodecanese island group, 425 from the port of Athens.  It is a town that relies on tourism, fishing and trade for economical growth.  A holiday in Symi means you will experience the interior of mountains and valleys with many windmills and enjoy the coastline with its rocky cliffs and beaches with isolated coves.

The old town of Symi has been well preserved and very little concrete constructions exist there.  To make the most of your holiday in Symi, it is handy to know of the different areas that Symi is divided into.  It consists of the harbour, the village above the harbour and the valley south of the harbour, Pedi Valley.

There is also a bay with a small settlement north of the harbour and a settlement at Marathounda.  Lastly there is the Monastery complex area at Panormitis.

Holiday attractions in Symi

Through the history of Symi, it was invaded and controlled by several empires.  During World War II the town was bombed several times and nearly destroyed.  At the end of the war, the Germans signed the surrender of the Dodecanese Islands over to Greece.

Many of the tourist attractions to see when you are on holiday in Symi are therefore reminders of the war stricken history of Greece. Katarinettes in the harbour, Yialos, is where Germany signed surrender of the islands.  On the bridge there is a good copy of the Lindos ship that presently serves as a World War II memorial.

Also in the harbour, behind the town square, there is the Nautical museum.  This museum is identified by the canons on the outside.

The Town Square is where you can enjoy the hospitality of Greece.  It is where you will find street cafés and tables on the pebbled pathways.  Enjoy your holiday in Symi by relaxing here and tasting the cuisine of the town and socialising with the locals.  Experience the old town atmosphere of this unspoilt town.  Many festivals are held here in the town square and you may want to plan your holiday to Symi to coincide with one of these festivals.

From the St John’s Church, follow the foot path behind the square that leads to the village, Chorio, and castle with the 19^th century mansions along the way.

The castle was rebuilt in the 15^th century by knights of St John.  It was destroyed during World War II.  The remains are left and a plaque to honour Filibert de Niallac, the Grand Master of the French Knights.

Along the path you will find a historical French pharmacy with medicine jars and other paraphernalia used during the French era of Symi.

In the older part of Chorio there is a museum portraying relics and artefacts that remind of the cultural diverse history of the town and then visit the Monastery of the Archangel Michael in Panormitis.  It is built on the site of the ancient temple of Apollo.

Transportation

To travel while on holiday in Symi, you can make use of the bus service.  Symi has a reliable bus service with hourly trips from the harbour to the village and Pedi Bay.  Car hire services and taxis also operate in the area.

There are water taxis to transport tourists to the beaches that cannot be reached by foot.  Other boat services are available for trips to the more secluded bays and beaches.

Accommodation

Accommodation is available in all the areas where the tourist can stay while on holiday in Symi.  To preserve the old style of the town, many of the old houses and mansions were restored to provide tourist accommodation.

Accommodation ranges from cottages, apartments and studios to villas and guest houses, all with their own unique view of the town or harbour.  There is a newly built holiday complex in Yialos, the harbour.  The only hotel is also situated in the harbour.

Conclusion

Holidays in Symi are where you can experience the remnants of a savage war, combined with Greek nature and hospitality.  Ancient history combined with modern history preserved in an old style atmosphere makes for an unforgettable holiday.

Zara

The city of Zara, also known as Zadar, is located in Croatia, in the Adriatic Sea.  Zara is the centre of the Dalmatian region.

Zara has a very war stricken history and many cultural influences made Zara the city as it is known today.  Zara has a Neolithic origin, but was conquered by many empires.  Forces that ruled over Zara and also the empires that were unsuccessful, are the Slavs from Eastern Europe, Rome, Venice, Turkey, Austria, Italy, Germany and Serbia. By the 1995 the Yugoslav war ended and Zara became part of Croatian control.

Climate

For you your holiday in Zara, you can expect typical Mediterranean weather.

The summer months are hot and dry and in winter the temperatures are mild and humid with the rainfall season in the winter, but it is not uncommon for rain showers during other seasons.

Tourist attractions in Zara

With the history of Zara and reign of many empires, it is no surprise that Zara will provide many tourist attractions.  The visitor on holiday in Zara will be entertained with evidence of the cultural history and diversity of the town.

Even the monuments display the diversity.  Take St Crisogono Church: this church was built by Romans and Venetians rebuilt the church on the Roman ruins.  After its bombing in World War II, the church was yet again rebuilt by Serbian leaders.

The Forte Fortress is a reminder of the struggle between the Venetians and the Turks when the Turks tried to conquer Zara.  The fortress was built in the 16^th century and still stands to this day.

The Palace of Ghirardini is built in Venetian style and offers a glimpse into the lifestyle and architecture of the Venetian era.  It features a balcony in Gothic style.

The Palace is situated next to the main square, so the visitor can also explore the old town of Zara.  In the town you can visit the art museum for a view of the art styles and treasures throughout the different eras.

While on holiday in Zara visit the park of Nikola Basic’s Greeting to the sun.  In the park technology and solar power is used to create gorgeous displays of light on sunny days.   It is an enchanting use of sunlight to create large circles is a pleasure for both children and adults.

Nightlife in Zara

After a day hot summers day of exploring the town, wind down with the nightlife that Zara has to offer.

Enjoy the fun side of your holiday in Zara in the bars and restaurants available in the town.  The atmosphere is warm and homely while you savour the cuisine and listen to the music.  For the more serious party people, you can visit one of the two dance clubs in Zara: Arsenal or The Garden.

Local cuisine

You will be surprised on your holiday in Zara when you taste the local cuisine.  The dishes most available in Zara are pizza.  Word has it that it is from the best pizza the world!  Sandwiches are also a popular meal.

The true traditional food that came from the historic times are polenta, bread, stew made from beans and pasta, sardines and bread cooked in olive oil and eggs with fries.  Pasta, bread and potatoes are the most popular foods in Zara.

Add some of the popular wine to your holiday in Zara.  An interesting fact is that the tap water in Zara is drinkable, unlike many other European countries.

Accommodation in Zara

Zara provides many hotels for accommodation while on holiday in Zara.  There are mostly three and four star hotels and no five star hotels.  Or choose from the many private accommodation such as apartments and guest houses.

For a back packing holiday in Zara, there is a youth hostel available or if you are in need of more affordable accommodation.

Conclusion

Zara is a city that arose from the ashes and made the best of their circumstances.  They preserve their history and utilise it to make a success of their future.

Skopelos

Skopelos is a Greek island and part of Northern Sporades Islands in the Aegean Sea.  It is the largest of the islands. Even though it is the largest of the group of islands, it is less commercial than the other islands as there is no airport and you travel to it from the neighbouring island of Skiathos.

When on holiday in Skopelos, you will notice it is a very green island with ample lush pine trees.  Combine it with the contrast of the deep blue sea and you will understand why the island is named “The Green and Blue Island”.

For economic growth, the locals keep occupied with fishing, agriculture and fruit production.  This provides for the local cuisine of fish, wine, plums, prunes, honey, feta cheese, olives and olive oil.

Climate in Skopelos

There is a reason why Skopelos is the green island.  It rains a lot there with several rain showers in the summer as well.  Temperatures in summer are hot and humid, but the trees and rain showers help to break the heat.

Sometimes it snows in the winter, making the island of Skopelos a winter wonderland.  Summer is ideally the time for a holiday in Skopelos, but treat yourself to the beauty of a snow covered Skopelos.

Attractions

The true beauty of Skopelos lies within the natural surroundings on the island and the original Greek history and atmosphere. When you plan a holiday in Skopelos, do not expect a concrete paradise filled with man-made pleasures.

Skopelos should be enjoyed for its simplicity and natural beauty. Skopelos has many beautiful beaches with pebble and sand shores.  The temperature of the sea is always pleasant in summer and makes it an ideal place for swimming and sun bathing.

Beaches are still unspoilt and hidden between coves and the ample trees and vegetation. One needs to travel by foot along paths to reach it.  There are bars and cafeterias on the beaches to quench your thirst after the brisk walk.

Agios Loannis Sto Kastri is a beautiful church on top of a hill.  Be prepared yet again for a long walk and quite a few steps to climb, but the church and the view from the top rewards in tenfold.

Glossa Port is where you can get a boat to and from the neighbouring island of Skiathos.  There are a couple of worthy restaurants to enjoy a meal while waiting for the next trip, or just to enjoy the scenery.  When you are at Glossa Port, follow the path up the hill to the charming village of Glossa.

Activities

A holiday in Skopelos will most certainly mean that you will explore the island at some stage.  To explore the interior of the island, join a cycling club that will provide you with all the equipment and gear needed for the trip.  Alternatively, go on a sea kayaking trip around the island from beach to beach.

Nightlife

The nightlife will not disappoint you on your Skopelos holiday.  There are many fine tavernas and clubs to choose from where you can enjoy music and local cuisine.  Visit a Rembetika club to experience this original music played by refugees when the fled from Asia to the safe haven of Greece.

If Rembetika is not your style, choose one of the jazz clubs or a club where traditional Greek music still plays until the early hours of the new day.

Conclusion

Many attempts have been made in the past to modernise the island of Skopelos.  It never truly succeeded for the foreigners respect the history and tradition of the island.  While on holiday in Skopelos, you will notice how well preserved this Greek culture is that sets the tone and atmosphere on this piece of paradise.

Skiathos

Skiathos is a Greek island in the Aegean Sea and is part of the Northern Sporades islands.  It is a very small island that is on average 12 kilometres (7.45 miles) long and 6 kilometres (3.72 miles) wide.

Climate

Skiathos is hot and humid in the summer with temperatures reaching into 30° Celsius.  The sea water is warm and pleasant.  Winters are mild to cold in the winter with hardly any rain, making it the perfect holiday destination.

Holiday activities in Skiathos

To experience the island at its best, you need to make a hiking holiday in Skiathos.  If walking is not for you, then go biking.  Whichever option you choose, Skiathos has many trails to follow leading to the gorgeous beaches, the town centre and the different attractions.  Enjoy the breathtaking scenery of the sea and picturesque island beauty.

Attractions in Skiathos

While on holiday in Skiathos, take the time to explore the island and all the beauty it has to offer.  Recently Skiathos regained popularity when parts of the film “Mama Mia” was shot here.

Many of the local people were cast as extras in the film.  If you are wondering, the island is as beautiful as portrayed in the movie.

The beaches have to be the most popular attraction in Skiathos.  The beaches are secluded with rugged terrain leading towards it.  Cars and busses can travel by road to the coves.  Even though the roads are narrow, it is not impassable.  The beaches are clean and unspoilt and line the clear and calm sea.  On the beaches there are cafés with great food on the menus.

Take a morning and walk up to Il Kastro.  A holiday in Skiathos will not be complete if you do not explore the ancient history of this island.  Il Kastro represents just that.

It is the ruins of houses and churches from Kastro, the largest medieval town from the twelfth century to the middle of the 19^th century. Located on a steep cliff, it made the town hard to reach and easy to defend against enemy attacks.  Only one of the churches still remains intact between the ruins.

Papadiamandis House is a small museum. Once the house of the poet and writer Alexander Papadiamandis, one of the greatest in Greek history, it is now a well preserved view into the lifestyle of the writer.

Follow the cobbled pathways to the town centre where you will find exclusive shops in the old shopping quarters. Here you can also find street cafés and restaurants to enjoy the island cuisine.

Accommodation

Like most of the islands in the Greek Island group, Skiathos thrives on tourism as part of the economic growth.  There is therefore no shortage of accommodation in Skiathos.  For your holiday in Skiathos you can book into a variety of places to stay.  You can rent a private villa from the owners or book a studio with a lovely view of the island.  Skiathos has many hotels, most of them restored from previous villas.  Or you can relax in cosy bed and breakfast guest house.

Conclusion

Prepare to walk a lot while on holiday in Skiathos. It is still the best way to enjoy the whole island.  Besides, the island is small enough to cross by foot.  So remember to pack your hiking shoes and comfortable clothes.  Skiathos is the perfect getaway for a relaxing holiday.

Samos

The Greek island of Samos is a North-Eastern Aegean Island in the Aegean Sea.   From all the North-eastern islands, Samos is frequented the most by visitors, partly because of its rich ancient history, and partly because of its natural beauty.  The island can be reached with daily trips from Ege Port in Kusadasi.

The history of Samos is one of many wars over a very powerful country.  Many empires have ruled over Samos, but in the end Greece was victorious in 1824 with the Greek revolution and reclaimed the throne.

Samos is the birthplace of many famous antiquities, from philosophers to Greek gods.  The most famous of these are Pythagoras, Hera, Aesop and the astronomer Aristarchus.

It is also an island of great ancient engineering marvels and architecture, leaving no wonder that a holiday in Samos is a sought after experience.

Holiday attractions in Samos

As many of the other Greek islands, the beauty of Samos lies in its natural surroundings, the cliffs, fauna and flora and the fairytale beaches.  It is part of the Greek culture and heritage and many villages were built utilising nature to defend and protect the villages.

Samos has a rich cultural history with preserved sites, artefacts and ruins that represents that history.  As mentioned, many engineering marvels exist here, such as the Tunnel of Eupalinos.  This is an aqueduct in Pythagorion that was built from 529 to 525 BC.  It runs through the hills for longer than a kilometre; 1, 04 kilometres to be precise (1.4 miles) and provided water to Pythagorion.  Visitors can walk through a part of the tunnel which is now equipped with lighting.

The Monastery of Panagia Spiliani, meaning “virgin of the Caves”, is a Monastery that is built inside a cave and is devoted to the Virgin Mary.  There are only two of these Panagia Spiliani’s: one on Samos and the other one in Nissiros. Initially the cave was used to extract limestone to construct some of the buildings; it later on became residence to a religious diviner and then a shelter for women and children during war stricken times.  It was eventually returned to a religious sight during the Ottoman rule.

The Temple of Hera is another popular Samos holiday attraction.  According to Greek mythology, Hera was the wife and the sister of Zeus, king of the gods. She is therefore the queen of the gods and the god of marriage.  Mythology states that Samos was the birthplace of Hera and the temple was constructed in her honour.  The temple is now in ruins and only one of the 135 columns still stands.

Be sure to also visit the Archaeological Museum in Samos Town as many of the ancient Greek artefacts was discovered at the Temple of Hera.  This includes the five metre tall Kouros, a female statue.

Many more of the remains of the Greek history can be found in Samos.  Make it a priority on your Samos holiday to visit these heritage sites for a very interesting insight into the past where fact and myth are combined.

Holiday activities

The most popular outdoor activities are windsurfing, diving and canoeing.  Any activities that include the blue sea and white beach coves are due to be popular.

The archaeological structure of the island makes it ideal for hiking and cycling to explore the island and enjoy the breathtaking scenery.

Accommodation

Samos is a world famous tourist destination and the island makes full provision for the busy summer seasons.  Accommodation for your Samos holiday includes a wide range of venues.  There are hotels, villas, apartments and studios.

The island has two five star hotels, one with a private beach.  While the service is excellent, it comes with a price tag to match.  More affordable accommodation is available making a holiday in Samos accessible to everybody.

Conclusion

Samos is a place that every person deserves to visit at least once in a lifetime.  Here the ancient world meets the modern world with vibrancy and with respect to their heritage.

Lesvos

The Greek island of Lesvos lies in the Aegean Sea.  The Greek pronunciation is Lesbos.  The island is of volcanic origin and is evident in the formation of the island, the hot springs and the two gulfs in the island.

Lesvos is the third largest of the Aegean island group, but is very unspoilt and undiscovered by tourists.  The island is very mountainous and has two large peaks, Mount Olympus and Mount Lepetymnos.

These mountains, as the rest of the island are still covered with trees and shrubs and other vegetation.  Olive trees and chestnut trees make out the largest percentage of coverage.  Other prominent trees are pine trees and oak trees.

 Climate

Lesvos is located in Mediterranean area, setting the climate for the island.  Summers are hot and dry and winters are mild.  It is evident in the tree plantations that Lesvos receives an adequate amount of water, which is normally in the winter season.

The trees and rain provides a break in the heat and the mild water of the sparkling sea brings much needed relieve in the summer months.

Holiday attractions in Lesvos

In Molyvos Harbour there is a unique bar owned by a certain Paul and Martin.  When going on holiday in Lesvos, this bar should be one of your first stops and it should be a regular stop.

The bar is named Molly’s Bar and it is a place where strangers become guests and guests then become friends.  The food is scrumptious and the hospitality even better.  Molly’s Bar has become a landmark in Lesvos and the homely atmosphere will make you want to stay forever.

While in Molyvos, visit the Molyvos Castle.   This castle is a well preserved fortress built in the 13^th century and used to protect the island from enemy invasions.  It is a popular site for festivals and concerts and even though the climb towards the castle is a bit steep, you are rewarded with a magnificent view of the island and the scenery.

Your holiday in Lesvos has to include the Petrified Forest.  Perhaps for some it is not the most spectacular scene in Lesvos, but it is nonetheless a Protected Natural Monument.

Here you will see the remains of a forest that was buried by volcanic activity more than 4 million years ago.

The Healing Springs of Lesvos is thermal springs formed by volcanic activity.  The springs are very therapeutic and considered to relieve various ailments, including rheumatoid arthritis, skin ailments, sciatica and many other disorders.  This is the ultimate relaxation for your Lesvos holiday, especially after you have climbed the many hills to your various destinations.

Activities in Lesvos

Due to the geographical nature of Lesvos, it is no surprise that hiking and mountain biking is on the list of activities.  An alternative is to go canoeing from beach to beach to explore the coast of the island.

When you decided on a holiday in Lesvos, one of the main things you had in mind was probably to enjoy the beauty of the untouched beaches.  To bathe in the sun all day long and to cool off in the tempting crystal waters.  No one will blame you as these idyllic settings provide a paradise for sunbathers.

Conclusion

Whether your holiday in Lesvos is to learn of the culture and history, visit churches and museums, or enjoy the beauty of nature and beaches, Lesvos is still one of the most relaxing island holidays you will experience.

True to Greek hospitality, accommodation is abundant and in Greek style. Choose an apartment or guesthouse, villa or hotel; you will still be rewarded with a great stay and a fabulous holiday.

Lefkas

Lefkas, also known as Lefkada, is a Greek island in the Ionian Sea.  It is situated at the west coast of Greece and links to the Greek mainland by means of a long man-made causeway and a pontoon, or floating bridge.  The bridge floats on the water, supported by pontoons, or floating devices.

Towns in Lefkas

Lefkas consists of 14 villages.  Lefkas Town is the first village you enter when crossing the causeway and it is the administrative capital of Lefkas. It is therefore the town with the most activity throughout the year.  A holiday in Lefkas should include exploring the villages.

Most of the villages are located on the coastal parts of the islands, with a few inland villages. The coastal villages are more modernised due to tourist activity and displays as true fishing villages.

The inland villages offer different features such as nearby waterfalls and architecture that is more traditional.  Vafkiri is a village located in mountain area and features the traditional stone mansions.

Lefkas Climate

Lefkas has a Mediterranean climate with hot and dry summers.  The heat is broken during the day by the seasonal winds.  The location of Lefkas makes it more susceptible to windy conditions.

The winters are cool, especially in the mountain area.  Winter is also the rainfall season with a higher rainfall rate than the other islands.  This leads to lush green trees and vegetation across the island.

Holiday attractions in Lefkas

Start your holiday in Lefkas with the Seven Island Cruise.  The starting point is the harbour at Nidri.  From here, you are taken by boat to six surrounding islands.

You can spend some time on each beach and harbour and explore the villages if possible.  Information is given about each island that you visit.  The islands are Porto Katsiki, Kefalonia, Ithaka, Meganisi, the three islands of Onassis and lastly Madouri.

Porto Katsiki is an attraction in own right.  It is a remote beach and repeatedly being voted as the most beautiful beach in Greece.  There are no roads leading to the beach and the only access is via several steps through a steep and rugged cliff.  The water is crystal clear and blue and the beach is made up of pebbles.

The Papanikolis Cave is another attraction you can visit while on holiday in Lefkas.  During World War II, the Papanikolis submarine of Greece used to hide in this cave.  It is worth the visit for its historic value, but dolphins swimming and playing around the boats also usually entertain you.

Nightlife in Lefkas

Nightlife on this beautiful island is very laid back.  Most of the bars and taverns operating during daytime are used for nighttime entertainment to.  Music plays in the bars and many people dance to the sounds of the music.

The island and culture is not overly Westernised and one should not expect to find dance clubs and discos in Lefkas.

Accommodation

When on holiday in Lefkas, expect to stay in accommodation that is true to the traditional Greek culture.  Accommodation is available in all the villages, yet it is mostly the coastal villages that focus on tourist resorts and hotels.

Conclusion

The island of Lefkas is a beautiful island with breath taking scenery and has roots that run deep through ancient Greek history and two world wars.  A holiday in Lefkas will be a relaxing holiday where you can return to the beauty that nature has to offer and savour the culture of one of the most beautiful places on earth.

Crete

Crete has to be one of the most interesting Greek islands.  Plan a holiday to Crete to understand this statement.

Crete is the largest Greek island with the highest population.  It is also the fifth largest island in the Mediterranean Sea.  Crete has adapted to the many demands of tourists, yet it still maintains its proud heritage.  The island also features its own unique dialect, arts and culture and music styles.

Crete is one of the oldest islands and dates back as far as the 18^th century before the year of Christ.  It indicates that the first European civilisation arose here and the first palace was erected in Crete.  It has a strong biblical history, but also a history of Greek gods and the many battles between the religious tribes.

Landscape and climate

Crete is located in the south of the Aegean Sea.  It separates the Aegean Sea from the Libyan sea.

This location is significant to the climate as the northern part of Crete has a Mediterranean climate and the southern part of the island shares the climate of North Africa.

Mediterranean weather is hot and humid in the summer months a mild in the winter, but to the south the African climate makes for dry and hot temperatures.  Rainfall is rare and only in the winter months, and snow can be expected in the mountain regions.

Crete is a very mountainous island and snowfall can be found on the mountains during winter.  Along with the mountains you will be astonished with the valleys formed by the mountains.  You can also explore the caves and gorges on your Crete holiday to appreciate the intriguing geographical formation of the island.

Activities and attractions

As mentioned, there are many caves and gorges to be explored.  Link in with an organised hiking group with trained guides for the safest and best experience.  Or do a little mountain biking.

A holiday in Crete will of course not be complete without visiting one of the many breath taking beaches.  Crete is famous for its white coastline and luxurious blue seas.  While at the beach you can scuba dive or go snorkelling with groups.  See if you can locate Olous, the sunken city.

Sailing and yachting is another popular choice on a Cretan holiday.  If you do not own a yacht, you can rent one from a yachting club where they will provide you with the necessary equipment.

For all day family fun, you can visit the water park with rides and slides to entertain the children the whole day.  Also consider a trip to the Aquarium, fondly known as the Cretequirim. A holiday in Crete with the family and young children has now become very easy to enjoy.

Or visit the many historical sites such as churches, museums, and other sites of interest.  Arhanes village is a good example to explore a village with historic value.  The village still remains and has a few bars and restaurants, but the once impressive castle built there now stands in ruins.

Accommodation

Accommodation for your holiday in Crete is just as diverse as the population.  Hotels are abundant and within reach of the amenities. Hotels are of international standard and your holiday will be very relaxing.

You can also book in at an apartment or rent a private villa.  All of the options provide their own unique view of the island. If you’re seeking a similar experience in London, you could explore flats to rent canary wharf to find an apartment in the city.

Conclusion

The combination of two temperature districts and diversity of the inhabitants makes for unique cuisine, attractions and interest.  Combine the modern world with the ancient world with a steadfast culture, and you will have a unique holiday in Crete and an experience to never forget.

Andros

Andros is a Greek island that is the furthest North out of the Cyclades archipelago.  Archipelago is a group of islands that have their own government and acts independently from the mainland.  Andros is also the island that is the closest to Athens.

During the history of Andros, many civilisations claimed control over Andros, including Venetians and Cretans. In ancient Greek, the capital of the island was Palaeopolis and had a famous temple that was dedicated to Dionysus, the son of Zeus.  It now lies in ruinsafter the many wars fought over Andros.

Andros reclaimed independence on the 10^th of May 1821 during the Greek Revolution. Theophilus Kairis raised the flag of independence at the St George Church.

Landscape and architecture

Andros is a small island of 40 kilometres long on average and the widest part of the island is 16 kilometres. The island is the typical Greek beauty of traditional buildings and architecture.

Alleys are narrow and paved with pebbles and you can enjoy a feast of flower displays as you explore the villages.

The villages located on the coast are adjacent to the pebbled beaches and striking blue seas. A holiday in Andros will involve hiking to reach your destinations.  The beaches are mostly secluded and surrounded by cliffs. You can only reach the beaches from the village by walking along rugged footpaths to discover the treasured beaches.

The inland villages are built on mountainous terrain and boast many fruitful valleys that receive plenty rain, and water from other sources.

Holiday attractions in Andros

Ancient Greece left a mark on this Greek island.  A mark that the inhabitants are nonetheless proud of.  Andros consists of many historical and archaeological sites that display the heritage of the island.

If your holiday in Andros involves tours of the island, Basti will be one of your destinations.

In Basti, you can visit the Monastery of Zoodochou Pigis.  The archaeological site of Ipsili is also in Basti.  Here excavations are taking place to discover artefacts of Ancient Greek.

A holiday in Andros will not be complete if you do not visit at least one of the museums.  Andros has a museum for Archaeology, Maritime, Modern art and one for Folklore. There is a museum to suit the fancy of any person.

There are a few churches worthy of visiting such as the Church of Taxarhis and the three Churches in Chora devoted to the Virgin Agia Tsour, the Church of Agios Georgios and the Church of Panagia Theoskepasti.

While on holiday in Andros, be sure to visit the famous Sariza Spring with water flowing out of a lions’ head.

Andros cuisine

Cuisine that is local to the island will usually include olives or made with olive oils. Other local dishes are sausages and cheese dip, kopanisti, and froutalia omelettes.  Andros is also famous for the locally produced wines from the Andros vineyards.

Restaurants in Andros have a family atmosphere and many of the restaurants and cafés are family owned.  This is because the Greeks are very family orientated and family comes first.

Nightlife in Andros

Weekends in Andros tend to get very busy as people from Athens come to the island to enjoy a weekend away from home.  The nightlife here caters for most holiday goers looking for some after dark fun, but should not be compared to the more commercial Greek islands.

There are many bars offering drinks and music until dawn and the lively atmosphere will compliment your holiday in Andros.

Conclusion

Expect to be swept away by the beauty of Andros and indulge yourself in the culture and hospitality of the island.

Nice

With its astounding natural beauty, excellent mild weather and wealth of cultural heritage, it’s no wonder Nice ranks so high among many a traveller’s wish list. The idea of strolling along the city’s scenic beaches with the Mediterranean Sea breeze blowing through your hair or biking through the locale and stopping to admire its many landmarks should be enough to convince you to spend your holiday in Nice.

There is plenty to keep you occupied here as well as plenty to see as you partake of the sights and sounds of this touristic gem tucked away in the south-eastern reaches of France.

Sightseeing and activities

When it comes to sightseeing, few destinations offer the kind of view you get when you ascend to the Colline du Chateau and cast your eyes over the spread of Nice 90 metres beneath you. Though there is a lift that will take you up three quarters of the way, many visitors prefer to climb the stairs so as to savour every step of the ascent. Mont Boron also gives those on holiday to Nice spectacular views of both the beach and the mountains.

A trip to the nearby village of Eze is well worth the effort as you will be treated to the sight of a pretty cactus garden which also yields an excellent vantage point over the surrounding landscape. You can continue your sightseeing with a sortie to Old Nice where you are bound to be enamoured by the picturesque buildings and the maze of narrow streets.

While the beach may be very enticing to the eye, its pebbly shores aren’t exactly a sunbather’s dream. Having said that, nothing should stop you from moving them about and creating a soft lounging space for yourself. Or indeed venturing into the deep blue waters for a swim; provided you are a competent enough swimmer as the currents can be quite strong at times.

Nice has several museums offering visitors access to important historical information as well as several exhibitions of art. These include the Musée Matisse which features plenty of artworks housed in a beautiful 17^th century Genoese villa.

The Museum of Asian Art showcases works by artists from different parts of Asia. If you’re keen on archaeology, the Musée et Sites Archeologiques de Cimiez is a place you’ll want to pay a visit. Apart from oodles of information on ancient Gallo-Roman life, the place has a number of activities to keep your children occupied.

The more energetic will be excited by the range of activities available for their entertainment at Nice. If you love skating you will want to find out what is on offer at Fun ‘n Roll which is on rue Cassini. The pick of the activities there are inline skating and rollerblading.

Events

Among the many cultural delights you can look forward to as you plan your Nice escapade is the highly anticipated Nice Jazz Festival, a five day fete held every July. It presents you with the opportunity to be serenaded by the sounds of legends such as Herbie Hancock, The Dap Kings and Erykah Badu. At the Carnaval de Nice you get to let your hair down and party all your cares away as Mardi Gras is celebrated with music and colour.

Monaco

With beautifully moderate weather, scenic landscapes and countless attractions, Monaco provides a more than ideal destination for holidaymakers. This tiny principality truly leaves no stone unturned in ensuring visitors are fully entertained as well as fully relaxed during their stay.

If you’re an outdoors kind of person you’ll have your fill of sites to see and activities to participate in. But even while indoors guests can be assured of finding something to keep them busy. Accommodation comes in the form of an array of 5-star beachfront establishments that offer the last word in luxury and gastronomy.

Sightseeing and activities

If you haven’t heard about the Monaco Grand Prix, you’re one of a very rare minority. Anyway, those who visit Monte Carlo will have the joy of walking the streets that form part of this hallowed circuit. Still on motorsport, the Monte Carlo Rally is part of the World Rally Championship season and if you happen to be in Monaco’s most populous borough on January you can have the joy of being sprayed with dust and exhaust fumes from masters such as Sebastien Loeb.

But this is only one of the many marvels that overwhelm you when you visit this much-vaunted city state. Most people who go on holiday to Monaco are driven there by its Mediterranean shores, to gaze at the pretty Yacht-infested harbour or walk the clean, calm streets lined with ancient landmarks. As you amble about you are sure to come across the Prince’s Palace, a magnificent edifice decorated with intricate frescoes and other exquisite decor touches from centuries past.

It was initially constructed in the 12^th century. Another building that reflects the cultural and religious heritage of the place is the St. Charles church which was officially opened in 1883. It is in itself a work of art that presents tourists with beautiful stained glass windows and a majestic arched interior.

The St. Dévote church is an 11^th century chapel that is breathtaking in appearance and legacy. These are just a few of the many monuments that dot Monaco, providing insight into its illustrious past.

Seekers of more historical information will be rewarded when they visit the Nouveau Musée National de Monaco, the Museum of Napoleonic Souvenirs, the Oceanographic Museum and any of the principality’s other museums.

But a holiday to Monaco is far from simply a trip to a concrete jungle and nature lovers will be delighted to find that there are many lovely gardens in the locale. At the Exotic Gardens and the Observation Cave, visitors will be transfixed by the sight of millions of plant species (including many varieties of cacti) thriving in a rocky mountainside. The caves are a must-see for geology buffs, particularly the stalactite and stalagmite fingers hanging from the cave ceilings and rising from the ground.

Events

As we mentioned earlier, every January visitors can become witnesses to the speed and automotive gallantry on display at the Monte Carlo Rally. Art lovers can plan their holiday to Monaco to coincide with the exhibitions by various artists at the different museums.

Lille

If you’re looking for a French destination that serves up a tasteful mix of the old and the modern, you will be hard pressed to do better than the city of Lille in the northern part of the country.

And speaking of taste, Lille justifies its place as part of the world’s capital of gastronomy with a range of restaurants that offer an innovative menu of dishes reflecting French heritage as well as influences from other parts of the world. The vibrant music and arts scene here ensures that you will be fully entertained during your stay as do the many wine bars and brasseries that dot the city.

Sightseeing and activities

Lille is rich in culture and this is evidenced by the many museums you can find here. Among them are the Musée des Beaux-Arts, Musée de l’Hospice Comtesse and the Musée d’Art et d’Industrie de Roubaix.

Here you will see exhibitions of European artworks dating back to the 15^th century as well as displays of modern and contemporary art.

There are also many landmarks that point to Lille’s rich heritage including the Lille Cathedral, a Roman Catholic basilica whose construction began in 1854. The Citadel of Lille was built between 1667 and 1670 and was designed by the renowned Sébastien Leprestre, Marquis of Vauban.

It is shaped in the form of a 5-pointed star and at 2,200 metres in circumference, is really a small town in itself.

The Porte de Paris is a structure similar to the Triumphal Arch in the capital that was built in the late 17^th century in honour of Louis XV’s capture of Lille.

Lille is a veritable shopper’s paradise with several boutiques and designer wear outlets where you can get that exquisite necklace or comfortable sports gear.

When it comes to matters of the stomach, Lille really is in a class of its own with more patisseries than you can count as well as a wide range of eateries to suit all sorts of budgets. Even the average establishments serve a mouth-watering assortment of dishes ranging from local specialities to overseas delicacies. Brasserie Flore is particularly recommended to visitors.

And when you want to wind down an evening with your drink of choice while socializing with the locals, you will find many classy joints at your disposal. At the Club le 30 you will be entertained by some of the country’s best jazz artists as you sip your favourite drink and at Bateau Ivre the more energetic can dance away the night to house music. If you want a place with Anglophone staff you should try out Café Oz. Apart from getting a bartender who literally speaks your language, you will be satisfied with the lively atmosphere and excellent selection of music.

Events

Every month the Chalice Sound System, a grand reggae event held in Wazemmes takes place, and it’s a highly recommended experience for music lovers. Should you happen to be in Lille in September, spare some time to attend the annual fair known as La Braderie. Here you will find plenty of merchandise for the buying including antiques, ornaments and paintings.

Gozo

Booking a holiday to Gozo is the best decision a discerning traveller keen on exploration and adventure can make. This Mediterranean island is part of the Maltese archipelago and boasts magical beaches of soft golden sands as well as an enchanting green landscape.

Life here is slow-paced and completely relaxed and visitors feel as if time has frozen as they wander from vantage point to vantage point of this scenic isle. Unlike the island of Malta, which is a mere 5km away, you can find a number of secluded beaches in Gozo where you can sunbathe without the disturbance of a noisy crowd. There are many things to do and discoveries to make once in this captivating resort.

Sightseeing and activities

The blue crystalline waters and pure sands that are characteristic of Gozo’s beaches are every holidaymaker’s dream. It’s only natural for visitors to these parts to stretch themselves beneath a parasol and let the Mediterranean sun turn their skins a rich bronze.

Guests in Gozo’s luxury hotels have the option of swimming in pools and enjoying the warm climate from the poolside with a frigid cocktail in their hands. A few of Gozo’s hotels are also equipped with spas so you don’t have to imagine blowing off steam in a bubble bath or sauna while lounging in one of the world’s most exotic locations.

A more exciting experience can be realized when diving into the sea waters to discover a wonderful diversity of marine life.

Gozo’s virtually unspoilt natural beauty makes it one of the most picturesque among its Mediterranean neighbours. In view of this it comes as no surprise that the island has provided many a TV and film production with the perfect setting for filming. Close your eyes for a moment and imagine quiet hillside villages with twisting alleys and beautiful landmarks. While biking or hiking through the area you will be treated to magnificent views of the sea and neighbouring islands. You will also get to see some unique geological features such as salt pans and caves along the way.

Interested in boosting your banks of historical info? Visit the Museum of Archaeology in Victoria which is replete with archaeological artefacts from different eras in history. The Ggantija Temples date back to 3,500 BC and are simply a must-see for anyone who claims an interest in world history.

One of the most pleasurable ways of exploring this unique island is on bicycle. This way you can savour the sweet breeze as you move from landmark to landmark. And since the island just 9 miles by 4 and a half miles, you will hardly feel the strain.

Events

The Gozo carnival draws people not only from the neighbouring islands of Malta but also from around the world. At this time the locals pull on some interesting colourful costumes and come out to party and you will have little choice but to join the joyful festivities. During summer movie buffs will be in for a special treat as they will find open air film screenings and those who plan a holiday to Gozo in May can take part in the colourful Munxar Village feast.