For a lot of people, the sun doesn’t agree with them for one reason or another. Maybe their skin is too sensitive to intense heat. Maybe their preference lies in cooler climates.

Either way, travelling in cold(er) countries than the country you live in can bring new, wonderful experiences that you couldn’t possibly dream of getting in a sun location.

However, going from the heat to the cold brings some considerations which need to be addressed.

You will need to bring clothes that will protect you against the rain/windchill/snow. Having suitable gear in colder climates is imperative if one is to fully enjoy the trip. This is the one consideration that you must fully research before you leave. You don’t want to be freezing cold and having to fork out big money in local tourist shops for heavier clothes.

When you are packing your rucksack or suitcase, then you will need to make sure you include some sort of first aid kit. One which is similar to an industrial first aid kit will be more than enough. Have all your medical drugs and prescriptions kept in it, so that you’ll have easy access to them if need.

This simple point cannot be emphasised enough. Many people totally forget about safety when travelling, especially in cooler climate countries. Seton will have everything you need to make sure that you have the correct gear for whatever type of trip you’re planning on taking.

A battery operated heater of some sort can be an excellent method of quickly warming up your hands and feet. Batteries are great because they can be taken anywhere, whereas gas or fuel cannot.

If you plan on going skiing or doing any other form of hazardous activity while away, then please take out an insurance policy that covers all that you intend to do. Insurance premiums don’t cost much, and the benefits including the peace of mind far outweigh the costs.

Remember to include items that will help you pass the time – in the event of a sudden storm occurring. Things like a laptop, books and or deck of cards all provide an entertainment outlet in cases of extreme boredom.

Travelling to colder regions like the alps or parts of Russia can be an eye opening experience. If you come prepared then holiday on the slopes can be equally as much fun as a holiday in the scorching heat!

Not all of the best destinations in the world are 8+ hours away on a plane, however the overwhelming majority are, which makes sense when you think about it. To really experience something amazing, otherworldly and downright special, to me, it makes sense you should have to travel further for it. So the next time you’re on a hideously long plane journey, keep repeating that theory like a mantra, and you’ll be there before you know it!

Of course, the downside of long haul flying is how hard it can be on the body. Jet lag can be a shocker, and depending how many time zones you travel through, depends on how severe it can be. The usual advice is to try and regulate your body clock as soon as possible, by getting up at the time you normally would, despite the fact your body is screaming ‘nooooo!’, and to eat at the normal times too, as per local time. It does get better after a couple of days, honestly, and hopefully you’ll be enjoying your destination too much to care after a while. Besides, covering up dark circles is what make up was invented for!

One suggestion I have for making long haul flying easier on the tiredness levels, is to do a little pre-planning, and by that I mean get as much sleep and relaxation as possible before you fly. One way to do that is to pre-book an airport hotel. This might sound expensive, but you’re wrong in thinking that, as there’s a hotel for every budget. Most airports have a range available, and the larger UK airports, such as the London airports, Manchester and Birmingham, have a wide range, with many great deals on offer year-round.

I recently stayed in one of the Manchester Airport hotels, and I couldn’t fault the service, or the price. For a minimal cost, I arrived at the terminal fresh-faced, having had a full eight hours sleep, and no panicky drive to the airport an hour before check-in time. If you don’t believe me, check out these hotels at Manchester Airport, and you’ll be very surprised at what you find – tempted? I bet you will be after you see the prices and range on offer.

I’m planning to visit Malaysia this year, and I’ll be flying from Heathrow Airport. I have to say I’m not relishing the idea of a 12 hour flight, but I know the destination will be more than worth the flight time. I will certainly be booking one of the Heathrow hotels with AirportHotels.com pre-flight, and depending on the time of my flight coming home, I may even stay a night on the way back, to make sure I’m not driving back up the motorway with my eyes half closed!

With the huge range of airport hotels on offer, there really is something for every budget and taste, and with that long-haul flight looming in the not so distant future, a night’s extra sleep will make all the difference.

The majority of accommodation in Amsterdam is fairly central too as two-thirds of the hotels are located in the heart of the city. Undoubtedly one of the best times of the year to visit is during the spring months. Amsterdam’s world-famous tulips are in full bloom at this time and there are a number of events that take place at springtime, as this guide by the guys at cheapflights.co.uk highlights.

An Ocean of Colour

Keukenhof Gardens is the largest flower park in the world and is a truly amazing spectacle in the spring. Although it is not actually located in Amsterdam, instead being just over twenty miles away in Lisse, the relatively short distance to travel is well worth it. Probably the best time to take a stroll around Keukenhof Gardens is the middle of April as the tulips are in full bloom then, presenting a gorgeous feast for the eyes. A riot of colour is also provided by the annual April Flower Parade where amazing floats, intricately decorated with flowers of all kinds, wind their way through the streets around Keukenhof. This is definitely one occasion to have your camera to hand.

Another date to make a note of in the diary is April 30th. This is Queen’s Day and is a national holiday in the Netherlands. Being the country’s capital, Amsterdam is one of the main areas of activity and many of the city residents can be seen dyeing their hair orange, a ritual known as ‘orange madness’, to honour their country.

Cultural Delights

In addition to being a city full of life and vigour, Amsterdam has a rich cultural legacy and this can be enjoyed by visitors today in the form of many museums and galleries in the city. Vincent van Gogh resided in Amsterdam for a while and the Van Gogh Museum here is home to the largest collection of the great artist’s paintings in the world. 2013 is the 160th anniversary of Van Gogh’s birth, so a special exhibition of some of his greatest work will be on display from the beginning of May.

The most well-known museum in Amsterdam is undoubtedly the Rijksmuseum. A feast for the eyes for all art lovers, the Rijksmuseum’s collection includes classic works by the likes of Jan Steen, Vermeer, Frans Hals and, of course, Amsterdam’s most famous son, Rembrandt. After being closed for renovation for a seemingly endless period of time, the main building of the Rijksmuseum has finally reopened its doors this spring and is an absolute must-see for all art and culture enthusiasts.

With much to please the eyes, Amsterdam is a perfect destination for a spring city break and is a place you are sure to want to return to again.

Cancun doesn’t have to be about those things, though. If you’re willing to do a bit of looking around, the Glistening City has plenty of adventurous activities tucked away behind its crystal clear sea views. Here are some of those, plucked for your convenience!

Water Sports

Cancun’s beaches are the perfect place for a number of extreme sports, and the city has recently been rapidly gaining popularity among the adrenaline seeking crowd for this reason. The newest darling of Cancun’s extremists is fly-boarding – you strap a jetpack to your back and go flying around in the air. It is powered by water which is fed through a high pressure hose, and you will be dragged along at high speeds by a motorboat.

If you prefer your water sports more traditional, hire a jet-ski and start powering across the waves. Get a few of you together and this becomes even more fun!

Get Wet

Cancun is the perfect destination for a spot of scuba diving. Strap on your scuba gear and head underwater for some fantastic adventures. The MUSA offers you a unique experience – an underwater gallery of sculptures which are slowly being taken over by coral! Make sure to catch the VW Beetle!

The city lies just ashore of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, often known as the Great Mayan Barrier Reef, as only the famous one down under is bigger than Mexico’s. It’s more than 600 miles long, and is home to Hawksbill turtles, manatees, groupers and the curiously-named Splendid Toadfish. There’s even a ship down there: the wreck of the USS Harlequin.

Rock and Roll(ercoaster)

Xcaret. Just the mere mention of the word should be enough to make the hearts of any true adrenaline junkie start beating that little bit faster. Based on Mexico’s Mayan history, the theme park offers all your average rides, but adds a unique Latin American twist.

There’s a giant, walk-through cave totally infested with bats, and there’s even the opportunity to swim with sharks (as well as with dolphins or with stingrays, but neither of those can bite your face off…).

The newest ride is called Adrenalina, and will launch you into the air quicker than you can say Cheapflights. It will then drop you down sharply, and carry you through a host of hair-raising twists and turns, with the occasional splashdown thrown in for good measure.

Go Indiana Jones

The ruins of the Mayan civilisation litter the outskirts of Cancun, and are all ripe for some Indiana Jones-style exploration. Chichen Itza lies not far from the city – it’s been named one of the Seven New Wonders of the World.

In the middle of the jungle you can climb to the top of the 75-foot temple, which was dedicated to Kukulkan, a god in the form of a feathered snake.

1. Clean & Friendly Canadian Cities

Unlike a lot of other first world countries from around the globe, Canadian cities are clean, friendly, safe and incredibly multicultural (which is probably why Canada is lauded as one of the most “livable countries” year after year!).  Each city that you visit in Canada has a little bit of something different to offer too, from climate to activities to culture.  For example:

• Vancouver:  Laid back residents that live right on the Pacific Ocean, natural outdoors that are great for skiing, snowboarding, hiking and lounging at the beach, temperate weather (winters rarely dip below 0 degrees Celsius and summers rarely break the 30 degrees Celsius point)
• Calgary:  The “Texas” of Canada, hosts the annual “Calgary Stampede”, can have frigid winters and boiling summers
• Toronto:  Known as the “centre of Canada” and is the primary metropolitan hub, great shopping, cold winters and fairly warm summers that can be spent lazing about on Lake Ontario beaches
• Montreal: The “French capital” of Canada (though the true capital is Quebec City which is a “must” for anyone hoping to delve into Quebec’s unique and interesting history), accepting residents, fantastic cuisine and great shopping with a distinct European feel
• Halifax: Gorgeous rocky shores, kind and friendly folk with a distinct accent you won’t hear elsewhere in all of Canada

2. “Natural” Wonders

Being such a natural country, it’s no surprise that Canada is home to some of the most beautiful and distinct natural wonders in the world.  Check out one of the many Canadian Rocky Mountain parks, the Carbot Trail, the Dinosaur Provincial Park or perhaps the most popular natural wonder of the country:  Niagara Falls.

3. Every Season Has Something To Offer

Regardless of what time of year you visit Canada, you’ll be able to find a ton of things to do.  From fireworks competitions (The Celebration of Light in Vancouver is held in July) to the Toronto International Film Festival to the Quebec Winter Carnival, there’s something for everyone in Canada.  Just make sure that you dress accordingly depending on where you’re going (i.e. if you’re traveling to Vancouver, always bring a raincoat and umbrella).

4. An Outdoor Lover’s Paradise

If you love being outdoors, then Canada is the place to be.  Canada has some of the best camping and hiking, though this country also boasts world class skiing and snowboarding (check out Whistler in British Columbia), and fishing (most of the lakes in Ontario have fantastic fishing, though the Eastern seaboard provinces also boast some great catches).

5. It’s Affordable

Though the Canadian dollar is currently doing quite well in terms of currency, the cost of visiting this country still isn’t nearly as much as other European countries.  Even some of the nicest hotels are reasonably priced, and the fine cuisine is priced far lower than other areas of the world. If you are British and looking to travel to Canada, there is a specialist company called My Canada Trips. They do all kinds of things, even including a Rocky Mountaineer train journey.

Image from farm3.staticflickr.com

With lush green landscapes and rolling limestone hills, the island of Antigua is a simply fantastic place to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life. No matter where you’re travelling from in the world, you’re sure to find peace, quiet and relaxation in Antigua, however there are also a number of adventurous and entertaining things to do on the island too.

From wonderful restaurants to great nightlife, there’s so much to see and do on Antigua that you’ll really be spoilt for choice. With colonial architecture smothering every historic structure, and the local hospitality as welcoming as ever, there’s no better place to holiday in the Caribbean. Here’s a guide to some of the most frequent inquiries about the island, including where to stay, eat and party.

What’s The Best Time To Travel?

Prices will be at their highest from December through to April, so if you’re looking to get yourself a bargain on flights, make sure you don’t book during these months. Spring, summer and fall are the low seasons, and you’ll be able to get flights and accommodation for far less that you would during the high season. The weather is also a lot better during the low season, so make sure you bring enough sun cream for the whole family. Make sure you compare travel packages at cruise.co.uk before you book!

Hotels, Beaches and Activities

If you take a stroll along Antigua’s stunning coastline, you’ll see that there are a variety of luxury resorts, cute apartments and quiet log cabins to set up shop for your holiday. No matter what your budget, you can be sure to find something on the island that’s kind to your wallet, so don’t be afraid to shop around. If you are looking to flash the cash however, there are a small number of boutique properties to rent along the beachfront that are absolutely breath taking.

With over 360 beaches, Antigua really is the sunbathing hotspot of the Caribbean. Most of these beaches are peaceful and quiet, and nearly all are home to rare marine life and coral reefs. However there are also a small group that offer extensive water sports and child-friendly activities, so there are plenty of things to keep your kids entertained!

Additionally, if you’re travelling with friends, then there are some great places to spend the long, sun-kissed days whilst on the island. If you’re feeling energetic, why not try a spot of golf at one of the many courses dotted about the island. There’s also fishing trips that you can book at most places along the beach, and you’ll have no problem hiring some surf boards to hit the amateur Antigua waves!

1. Celebrity sightings
You’ll be in good company on St. Barts, that’s for sure. Pick any A-List celebrity, and they’ve likely jetted there to get a little sun within the last year. Whether it’s always been your dream to see Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie have dinner at another table in the same restaurant, or to get Puff Daddy’s autograph on a nude beach, or to see Martha Stewart sprucing up her yacht, you’ve found the right place. There are so many famous people in such a small area (St. Barts is only eight square miles) that it’s hard to not run into someone you’ve seen on TV before lunch.

2. Shopping in markets, shopping in designer stores
So much to buy, so little time. Here you have a choice—go into the local markets, full of Caribbean handicrafts and French artisan imports, or go into the boutiques in Gustavia for surprisingly good deals on Prada, Armani, La Perla, Hermes and much more. In the former, you’ll find great souvenirs and beautiful art produced by local and international craftsmen, and remember your trip forever with the things you bring home. If you choose the latter, you’ll fit in better with the high society crowd. If you go for both, you’ll leave broke but happy.

3. Lounge
No, seriously. This is how you should be spending your time. Step 1: Book St. Barts vacation villas online. Step 2: Be fabulous. There is no Step 3. Renting a villa is the “in” thing to do, and booking in advance is essential to get a good deal, especially in the winter months. These luxurious accommodations can be seaside, hilltop, or in town, but all are magnificent. While St. Barts definitely caters to wealthier visitors, following our advice can get you some good deals and make a visit here much more palatable.

4. Beach time!
As you might expect, the beaches on St. Barts are exceptional. Expect white sand, beautiful water, epic sunsets, and so on. There are over 20 beaches, offering snorkeling, jetskiing, windsurfing, and more. There is exceptional diving at Colombier Beach, Lorrient Beach, and Petit de Anse. Clothing is optional, and becomes more and more optional the further south you go on the island. If you leave Saline beach with tan lines, you’re doing it wrong.

5. Eating
Prepare yourself—the food here is truly wonderful. French cuisine served on a tropical island tops just about anything else in the world. Seafood is obviously featured heavily, but you can find any other dish imported daily from the US or France. Some of the most famous restaurants are L’Orchidee, Le Tamarin, Le Repaire, and Le Boubou’s. Did we mention that things are pretty French here? All of these places serve amazing food in sumptuous settings.

If you think your pocketbook can handle it, St. Barts is a wonderful destination. Plan you trip and book your accommodation in advance, and then relax in one of the most beautiful places on earth.

This Article discusses some of the national Landmarks of Qatar and why you should plan your next holiday to this Arabian country.

1)      The spiral Mosque in Doha

Combining the timeless Arab Islamic style of construction with modern day architecture, the spiral mosque of Kassem Darwish Fakhroo in Doha is a must see for any one with the slightest interest in architecture or capturing spirituality. Even though it can be argued that the mosque is not entirely a genuine idea and is only a replica of the great Mosque of Al-Mutawwakil in Iraq, the captivating beauty of the design and the dazzling architecture of the spiral mosque deserves an audience.

2)      The singing sand dunes ( 40 km southwest of Doha)

Almost all of us are familiar with the vastness and the lifelessness of deserts but desert explorers of Qatar sometimes report that the sand dunes of Doha move is such a fashion that it seems they are singing. This happens when certain conditions move the sand grains in such a fashion that it seems that they are creating a low murmur or singing. It is because of this phenomenon that these sand dunes, that are located 40 kilometers off Doha, are called the singing sand dunes and are considered as a national landmark of Qatar.

3)      Islamic Art Museum, Doha

Located in the very Capital of Qatar, the museum of Islamic art is a one of its kind project in the Persian Gulf. Although the museum draws much of its inspiration from the ancient Islamic architecture, it has a very unique and modern design. The museum plays hosts to thousands of pieces of Islamic art from historic as well as modern times. The collection can take you to a surreal journey into the rise and fall of Islam in the world.

4)      The torch Hotel, Doha

A staggering 300 meters high with 360 degree panoramic views across Doha, the torch hotel is a modern day architectural and construction master piece. The hotel has 51 floors and the rooms are equipped with the latest technology and facilities.  The location of the hotel is such that it is a centerpiece of Doha’s Sports city which is all set to host the 2022 FIFA world cup after successfully hosting the 2006 Asian games.

For any of you worrying about exchanging currency once in Qatar, have no fear. If you take a dollar and convert into the Qatar “Qatari Riyal” you will be given 3.64 Qatari Riyals in return, you can check the current exchange rates online at Travelex. There are over 30 registered money exchangers operating in Qatar as of today that require a form of identification for you to be able to exchange currency. It is important to note that most of the money exchangers have their branches operating in Qatar’s largest city; Doha.

1. The Eiffel Tower
Predictable? Oui. Cliché? Oui, peut-être. Something that can be missed? Non! This is the ultimate landmark of all of France, and has been an icon since its construction for the 1889 World Exposition. Hundreds of millions of people have visited it, and it is a symbol of intense pride for the French (locals may neglect to inform you that when it was first built, just about everyone hated it, and it was almost destroyed). Whether standing out against clear blue skies or lit up at night, this is a site that just can’t be passed up. Get Eiffel Tower tickets in advance to beat the crowds.

2. Musée du Lourve
Some sites can’t be adequately explored in a day. Or a week. Or maybe even a year. The Lourve is one of these infamously extensively and convoluted museums that you are obligated to go to (and will benefit greatly by doing so), but can be frustratingly large in its scope. There are more than 35,000 objects on display, and it is the world’s most visited museum. The Lourve gets around 22,000 visitors a day, but pretty much all of them can be found crowding around the Mona Lisa at exactly the same time that you want to see it. Consider branching out and taking in equally impressive but far less famous works in the myriad other halls, such as the Egyptian Antiques, Decorative Arts, and Greek and Roman Sculpture.

3. Moulin Rouge
Brought firmly into the international limelight by the romantic and musical pairing of a Scottish actor and Australian actress, this piece of French history is another worthwhile spot to check out. The sophisticated and sensual can-can dance was invented here, and cabaret shows are still nightly occurrences that draw thousands of visitors. The artistic and cultural style of the turn of the century, expressed as a balance between the pessimism of societal decay and the optimism of a bright, unknown future, is a unique and vibrant thing. It is still very much on display here in the artwork, music, and mannerisms of Bohemian counterculture. Moulin Rouge tickets are cheap and convenient to obtain online.

These are only three of Paris’ most famous sites. In addition, you shouldn’t miss the Palace of Versailles, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the view from Sacré Coeur and Montmartre. In order to not stand out as a tourist, we recommend adopting the traditional French outfit of black and white striped shirts, black berets, and extravagant facial or underarm hair. Carrying baguettes and cigarette holders with you at all times can also help to further the illusion. Bonne chance!

They are budget-friendly, family-friendly, couple-friendly, an ideal option for mates holidaying together and can take you to great destinations all over the world.

Budget-friendly

We all know that getting value for money can be hard when it comes to holidays. Often what starts out as an affordable idea can soon become an expensive reality. What makes an all inclusive package attractive is the fact that it is just that, all inclusive.

Those struggling to justify or afford time away this year can know from the outset exactly what their holiday spend will be. And exactly what they will get for it. It’s the easiest way to budget for that crucial week or two of quality holiday time.

With an all inclusive holiday we’re talking as much food and drink as you can consume. Participation in as many activities as the resort provides and lots of evening entertainment. On top of that your accommodation, flights and transfers are all included in the price. Everything you need and desire is wrapped up in one neat little package.

Everyone-friendly

Finding a great holiday destination that suits all ages and all tastes can be a challenge. All inclusives are perfect for families, couples and groups of friends. Whether we’re talking beach holidays, golfing breaks, diving holidays or even ballroom dancing getaways, there’s an all inclusive package for that!

Destination-friendly

There are plenty of cheap holidays destination choices too, worldwide and around the beautiful Mediterranean. So if you’re rather partial to the Greek Islands and their sundrenched beaches, not a problem. If you fancy a little diving in Egypt you can. If you’ve heard Turkey’s worth a visit you can see for yourself. But don’t forget there are also the Canary Islands, Cyprus, Portugal, and Spain to tempt you as well.

All inclusive holidays are more affordable than you might think. And remember you have greater control over your holiday budget which is good news all round.