Archive for the ‘Worldwide’ Category

2013.

Welcome to 2013, it’s another year and many Countries around the World are already half way through the first day of the new year.

Fantastic Travels Blog wishes you a good and a great year ahead. Whether you have New Years Resolutions, thinking about making a change or making a new start.  Are you already started thinking about your 2013 holidays?

 Here’s hoping that your 2013 will be enjoyable and fun!

Image By: Billy Alexander.

Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas to you and yours! Hope you have a Good one!

Cruise Travel.

Lately, you’ve probably heard as much about cruise travel as I have.  The good, the bad and the urgly.  However, it is nice to learn that the good does happen to outweigh  the bad.  The Passenger Shipping Association, and the European Cruise Council have recently released figures that show a 10% increase in cruise travel over the past 12 months.

According to the reports, UK travellers exceeded 1.5 million people, taking a cruise.  European travellers were more than 6 million people, and the figures for travellers from the USA topped 11.5 million people.  With the total number exceeding 19 million, I think it’s safe to say that cruise travel is definitely on the rise.

Featured Cruises.

DFDS Seaways have a number of special cruises on offer this Winter.  They have paid special attention to Europe, providing short cruise breaks suitable for couples and families alike.  They have a 4-night break to beautiful European cities.  Destinations include; Cologne, Brussels, Bruges and Hamelin.  If you fancy a short festive break this winter, find out more from the DFDS Website.

Monarch Tours and Cruises also have quite a few offers available in the cruise travel area.  Again if you’re curious, and want to see what’s on offer. Visit the Monarch Website and browse around for the type of cruise that would suit you.

I don’t know how many Cruise Line Comapnies there are out there.  P&O Ferries, Celebrity Cruises, Royal Caribbean, Princess Cruises, and  DFDS Seaways, are Cruise Lines that immediately spring to my mind.  All those mentioned are household names and are experienced Cruise Travel Operators.  There are however, countless more operators out there.

If you’re travelling and need travel insurance, here’s some useful infomation.

Image By: Keith Syvinski.

Whats On When.

In the first of many featured Whats On When articles.  We (all of us) are celebrating the start of the Paralympics.  Which is just about ready to get under way.  After the success of Team GB in the 2012 Olympics.  I’m sure the Nation has faith in our Paralympians competing for the UK.

The opening ceremony is tonight at 8:00pm showing on Channel 4 in the UK with Worldwide broadcasting coverage.  A series of whats on when articles will cover the Paralympics and other major events around the World.

Favourite Sporting Events.

We all have our favourite sports events, two of mine are Equestrian,  which starts with the Team Test on Thursday 30th August 2012, at 2:15pm.  The other sport I love is the Tennis.  Which, if I’m reading the schedule calendar correctly, starts on Saturday the 1st September 2012. Oh, exciting times ahead, I’m looking forward to watching and hopefully getting tickets.  (Can’t say any more on that, it’s very hush, hush)!  If you want a full schedule of events, go the Official Paralympic Website to find out just whats on when.

If you are in the UK, no doubt you would be up with the latest in parking and transport issues.  If you’re flying to the UK to enjoy the Paralympics, there are lots of information guides, and signs, that tell you the best ways to get around London.  These include travelling to and from the Olympic Stadium, and other Paralympics Venues.

Parking in and around any of the Paralympics Events will be prohibited.  However, if you simply must drive, you could always park a couple miles away and hop on Public Transport.  See our Car Hire Infomation Page  for more details about driving around London.  Better yet, why not fly to the UK to experience these Great Games.

Whats On When Major Event.

Event:  2012 Paralympics.
Dates:  29th August 2012 – 9th September 2012.
Venue:  Olympic Stadium and other Olympic Venues.
Times:  See the Official Paralympics Schedule.

Signing off from the first of the Whats On When Series, more to come soon.

Olympic Torch.

Olympic Torch at Buckingham Palace.

The Olympic Torch is now on it’s last lap.  Having travelled all over the UK.  It was greeted at Buckingham Palace earlier today, by the Duke and Dutches of Cambridge and Prince Harry.

There is less than 24 hours before the 2012 Olympic Games begins at the Olympic Stadium, London.  Unfortunately, I don’t happen to be one of the lucky Olympic ticket holders. (Yet).  However, if anyone reading this, wants to donate a couple of Wimbledon tickets.  Or Any tickets for a track event at the Stadium.  Feel Free to contact me.  Don’t be shy now, I’ll let you know where to send them.

This evening the Olympic Torch settled at London’s Hyde Park.  Where a big concert is taking place.  With performers Dizzee Rascal, Eliza Doolittle and Katy B to name a few.

Best of luck to Team GB, got to mention them first. But also to ALL the Athletes competing.  Be Strong, be healthy but most of all enjoy yourselves.

Still don’t know who’s going to light the Final Olympic Touch to mark the start of the games at the Stadium.

Photo By:Jon Candy.

Ready For The Diamond Jubilee Events?

As the anticipation hightens for the up coming Diamond Jubilee Events.  Here in London we are being encouraged to hold our own Jubilee lunches.  The weekend long celebrations will be held all over the Country.  Possible all over the World, particulary in Europe.  Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s 60th year reign will be celebrated to the fullest.

My personal feelings is that Her Majesty will reign for many years to come. I anticipate that our Reigning Monarch will go down in Royal history as the longest reigning British Monarch of all time.  (hope I’m not wrong). Yes, exceeding that of Queen Victoria, who reigned between 20 June 1837 – 22 January 1901.  A total of 63 years and 7 months.  Who incidently was the great great grand mother of our current reigning Queen.  (Think I got that right).  Can you imagine being around for the 70th year celebrations? What comes after Diamond? Platinum?

Maritime History For Diamond Jubilee Year.

The most recent celebrations attached to Greenwich is the re-opening and restoration of the Cutty Sark.  The Cutty Sark is a 143 year old ship. In it’s hayday, it carried tea from China, and castor oil to Australia.  It has been a famous South London Landmark since the 1950s, which incidently was opened by the Queen in 1957.  Last week, 55 years later, the Queen re-visited the location to attend the re-opening of the famous landmark attraction.  Now that’s what I call a true full circle historical event.

In May 2007 the ship caught fire and was almost completely destroyed. At the time of the fire, it was in the process of being restored.  Luckily most of the ship’s contents had already been moved and stored away. Five years and 50 million pounds later, she has been restored to her full glory. Now elevation approximately 12ft feet in the air, with an interative Museum underneath which spells out the history of the ship.

Greenwich has been re-named in honor of the Diamond Jubilee, Greenwich will be known as The Royal Borough of Greenwich.  Which will make it only the forth London Borough to carry such status.  It is fitting because Greenwich is a World Heritage Site known around the World. With strong maritime links, specificaly the Old Royal Naval College.  Which was at one time a retirement home for sailors.

Back To The 2012 Diamond Jubilee Events.

What will you be doing to celebrate the event?  I’m not totally sure myself, but I think Greenwich is going to be one of the events.  I know the area well, and I am looking forward to seeing the newly restored Cutty Sark.  Also, the biggest street party in the UK is being planned to take place in Greenwich. Not only as one of the Diamond Jubilee Events being held in London.  But also to celebrate their Royal Status.

Dates Of The Diamnd Jubilee Events – 2nd June 2012 – Tuesday 5th June 2012.

The Diamond Jubilee celebrations take place on the first weekend in June. I can’t count the numerous events that will be going on.  But the central event being a huge concert taking place within the grounds of Buckingham Palace.  Artists appearing will be: Alfie Boe, Annie Lennox, Cliff Richard, Ed Sheeran, Elton John, Jessie J, JLS, Jools Holland, Kylie Minogue, Lang Lang, Madness, Paul McCartney, Shirley Bassey, Stevie Wonder and Tom Jones.

Anyone deciding to fly to London to enjoy the festivities.  Can check out some cheap flights or late deals posted right here.  If you’re anywhere in Europe, a city break for the weekend could be a great idea.  Afterall, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II is head of the commonwealth as well as 16 sovereign states.  Come along and join in the fun!

More details of other Diamond Jubilee Events highlighted in later posts.

Changing of the Guard Photo by: Cristal Reza.

Easter Break Is Here Again.

Have you got all your Easter Eggs in yet?  Don’t worry, if there is more than one Easter Egg to be had by a child.   It won’t matter too much if you haven’t got a chocolate egg. These days, many children get more than one egg.    Of course there are some kids who won’t get an Easter Egg.  So let’s spare a thought for them, and hope that next year, their Easter Break will be a better one!

For those fortunate kids who do get more than one egg.  Why not buy a toy, a book or a game.  Something for their DS or Nintendo thingamagig.  That will keep them occupied for hours over the Easter break.  Have you noticed how kids as young as 3 year olds, can navigate those games?  Amazing.

Will Your Easter Break Be Busy?

The Easter break is one of the busiest weekends of the year.  It is a great time to catch up with family and friends.  An idea time to get away for the Easter break.  If you are traveling on the road, leave early or expect the usual traffic jams.  If you prefer to stay home and fancy a short break just after Easter.  Check out some of the last minute deals available.  You will be going away, just as many will be coming home.  That’s a great time to travel, it has the added advantage of being less crowded.

Whatever you decide to do, enjoy your Easter Break, have fun and be safe.

Photo by: Paul Pasieczny.

Best Time For A Holiday In The Sun.

It feels good thinking about taking a holiday in the sun.  This time of year, is one the best times for a nice relaxing sun baked break.  The thought of sharp crisp winds and snowy icy grounds, doesn’t really compare to the thought of,  clear blue green seas, white sandy beaches and the bright hot sun.  (At least not to me).

I even read an article this week which stated that a holiday in the sun could help with your immume system.  It seems your vitamin D levels within your immune system helps to protection against infections, flu’s and colds.  Apparently, the levels decrease in the Winter due to lack of sun.  Of course it may be slightly different for everyone,  each of us having unique immune systems of our own. But, there does tend to be more colds and flus around during the Winter months, don’t you think?

If you’re a Winter hater, (like I am), then taking a holiday in the sun between December and March would be a great idea.  Alternatively, you could slip down to the local chemist or health food store and buy some vitamin D supplement.  Better yet, some cod liver oil capsuls (don’t bite into them though – taste awful).

A Few Sunny Holiday Destintions.

If you feel like boosting your vitamin D levels via a holiday.  Here are a few great destinations; Portugal, Greece, Spain, or Turkey.  If you’re thinking about Worldwide, then the Caribbean, Mexico or the USA.  Perhaps you’d like to travel even further still, if so, there’s Asia, Australia or Egypt to consider.

If you had the choice which would you go for?  A holiday in the sun or vitamin D supplements.  Such tough choices.  If you choose the holiday, good for you.  This time of year is the perfect time to choose your holiday int the sun and break away from the norm.  Here are some special offers we stumble upon.  This time of year is a great time to pick up some very attractive last minute deals. 

can check out low cost holidays or Opodo for affordable package deals, or expedia or lowcostholidays for quick cheap getaways.

Photo By: John evans.

Once again we are  heading towards St. Valentine’s Day.  The radio adverts for dating sites are driving me nuts, the shops are full of cards and candy and the weather is too bleak to mention.   I’m thinking, a good enough valentines gift would be to stay in the warm, wrapped up under duvet with partner, popcorn, drinks and chocolates.

But alas, St.Valentine’s Day  is just another one of those commerically pressurized times of the year when.  If you’re loved up, what do you do this year?   Are chocolates & roses enough?  Would a weekend trip away do the trick?  Are you dreading going to work the next day.   You know you’ll going to have to listen to how wonderful an evening it was from one of your work colleagues.   Shouldn’t romance be in the air all year round?

Well, whatever you’re thinking of doing, try to remember that it is the thought behind the deed that counts.  Not how BIG or how MUCH the gift cost!

If travel is on your mind this St.Valentine’s Day.   Expedia and lowcostholidays have some specials deals on right now.  Cancun, the Caribbean, Hawaii, New York, Paris and Venice are all very popular romantic destinations.

Happy St.Valentine’s Day.  ENJOY!!

Image By:Bharatha Kumar

New Year Message.

I hope this year is one with less conflict, and a year of more peace around the World.  My New Year Message to you is:  Here’s hoping you have a very Healthy, Happy, Peaceful and Prosperous 2012.

As far as a New Year message goes.   I simply thought of want I would like,  And wished all the above for everyone around the World!

Have a good one!

Image: Vlado / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Honeymoon Bliss.

Is honeymoon bliss on the cards for the most talked about honeymoon this past week, (or should I say decade).  Is the “not yet honeymoon” of the Duke and Dutchess of Cambridge, (William & Katherine).  I’m sure that when the Royal couple do decide to take their honeymoon, it will be very blissful for them.

Don’t know if this, “we’ll wait a while” trend will on.   Just remember that The Royal couple are privvy to options the rest of  us mare mortals are not.  Busy as they may be, they live the kind of lifestyle where everyday could be a honeymoon for them.  Most of us have to hard graft it for less pay than we’re worth.  Now you don’t have to take my advice, but I say take your honeymoon bliss as soon after your Wedding Day as you can, like the next day.

I don’t know about you, but my honeymoon would be the first “married couple exciting adverture”.   Something to  look forward to in my new married life.  Call me a traditionalist, old fashioned or whatever you want.  I’d take my Honeymood Bliss the day after the Wedding, and two or three weeks of it, thanks very much!

To all couples about to be married.  I Hope you get to take your honeymoon very soon after your wedding.  Enjoy your honeymoon bliss at any one of the many honeymoon destinations around the World.

A Few Honeymoon Destinations.

The Caribbean.
Hawaii.
Las Vegas.
Mexico.
Paris.
Rome.