We have recently switched over our travel related posts to a new ‘blog of blogs’ - see our new page Travel Tips - so from now on this blog will concentrate on changes and additions to the site, welcoming new experts on board etc. However, if you have a great travel blog, or can recommend someone who does, please let us know, as we can include posts from featured blogs on our ‘best of blogs’ list.
Ah Paris. So graceful - with a unique style to both its architecture and people. But visiting on the 14th - 16th November I couldn’t help but notice that in a few cafes I went to it was more expensive to buy a cappuccino than a glass of vino – and it wasn’t just the dire exchange rate from pounds to euros that did it… Well when in Rome and all that – let us all drink wine.
Yeah, hostels have always been the accommodation of choice for bargain basement travellers, but with mod cons like free internet access, advice with travel arrangements, DVD libraries and TV rooms and free or inexpensive breakfasts that I found when looking at the posh-tels, they’re also a perfect solution for getting your family traveling on the cheap. Hostels are also known for being basic and friendly – which is just what traveling families need – but now the standard of ‘basic’ is rising to a level of cleanliness my Mum would be happy with - and frankly how much did you love sleeping in a bunk bed as a kid! So families looking for a deal and some socialising thrown in should check out our list of Family Friendly Hostels.
What happens when backpackers grow up? Once you’ve explored the world at your wandering own free will you might balk at the idea of joining a tour group where you’re expected to follow round someone holding up a random article on a stick to keep your group together… But you don’t have to join the bus tour just yet – hostels have grown up as well. Now instead of queuing for the pleasure of a cold shower you can backpack with all the mod cons, including free internet access, your very own power outlet, free breakfasts and coffee, free language lessons, a pool – with a DJ bar next to it - and a business centre, as well as a 24 hour hot water guarantee. So have a look at our list of posh-tels for flash-backers and experience all the freedom and social life of being on the road but with those added creature comforts we’ve come to appreciate as we’ve gotten a little older and more discerning.
Just in case you though the credit crunch has totally rained on your European travel parade, I’ve found some pockets of Europe where you won’t be held to ransom by the euro.
We’re all looking for a break from the evils of the credit crunch - and a break to an exotic destination sounds fair… You may even be surprised to hear that there are some pretty good deals around at the moment. First check out some tips on how to travel for less, then an article about which countries have got favourable exchange rates at the moment, and finish off by weighing up the pros and cons of long haul versus short haul in the current climate… I can’t believe it either - but apparently the credit crunch does have a silver lining.
It’s so much easier to learn things when you’re a kid. It’s also less embarrassing. Especially if it’s learning something that can involve a lot of falling over. Which is why World Reviewer has put together the list of Top Ski Resorts for Families and the North American equivalent, Top Ski Resorts for Families Too (USA).
It’s been a real pleasure for me to put together the new category on Volunteering. I’ve been lucky enough to speak to a group of people who have had some really interesting experiences doing something for themselves while doing something for someone else. From Letitia Mckie’s story of he time spend with HIV orphans in South Africa to the vastly different stories about teaching English in Peru, Namibia and Micronesia, I think we have the beginnings of one of our most inspirational of categories, and I invite you to have a wander though it.
As scout masters and bank managers all over the world will tell you being prepared is as a smart lifestyle choice - and though we can’t see into the future we can definitely offer some sage suggestions for how to prepare for November. Recently nominated resident where-to-go-when expert Lara has kindly prepared us for the Best of November as well as finding out where to find the best November Festivals.
If you’re missing the sun already then my contribution to our calendar efforts is an article about where to bask in the heat of the suns rays in November.
We haven’t solved the credit crisis but at least we’re offering you the best places to escape it to…
A big welcome to a woman who has been on some pretty big adventures, Ceris Borthwick. Her first recommendation for us was a trip overland between the UK and Cape Town. Definitely worth checking out if you’re sitting at your desk today dreaming of making the most from your time on the planet.
Can I go back on the road James?