Voyagetopia

Have you ever consider going on a sailing holiday? Considered it? You may not have even heard the phrase before. It’s a fairly new concept, and for those of us that have always dreamed of sailing the sea’s but never had the money or the enthusiasm to take it up full time there is an alternative, ‘A sailing holiday’. But what does a sailing holiday involve? Basically, it’s one big voyage; around 5-6 boats (depending on the size of the company) set sail together, around your desired destination. You are given instructions on how to control your vessel and an experienced skipper is on hand to assist should you come across any problems. What a genius idea! You too can now afford set sail on the seas.

 Some of our ‘first timer sailing hot picks’ are:

Cyclades, Greece

The Cyclades in Greece is built up of around 220 islands, the most popular of which are Mykonos, Thera and Santorini. Your sailing path will include weaving in and around the beautiful islands, taking in the mountainous views and Greek architecture and stopping off to visit a few of the more populated islands. The best times to go sailing around the Cyclades would be either spring or autumn (May, June or September, October), allowing for the best of the sunshine but it doesn’t reach the sweltering heat of their 40° summer.

Bay of Islands, New Zealand

The Bay of Islands area is situated in Northern New Zealand, and is one of the most popular fishing, sailing and tourist destinations. It’s easy to see why when you visit the Islands, enclosed within the natural bay just off the North point of New Zealand, the luxurious green mountains peep out from above the deep turquoise Ocean. You may want to pay close attention to the waters as it’s not unknown for pods of dolphins to swim by your boats, as well as, whales and sea bird flying overhead.  The best time to visit the stunning Bay of Islands is within the summer months September through till April.

Phuket, Thailand

Phuket is better known for its seedy sex industry than its sailing tours; however Thailand has a lot to offer in the way of sailing scenery. Sailing around the coast of Phuket you will see some of the most crystal clear waters and beautiful beaches that Thailand has to offer. The bizarre landscape, of protruding mountains arising from the Ocean makes it a favourite for avid sailors and novices alike. You do have to pick the right time of year to visit South East Asia as you don’t want to become caught up in monsoon season, which is June-October.

Sydney, Australia

Most people would be put off from sailing around Sydney by the thought of the expense, however unlike many other major cities you can actually anchor for free in Sydney. It’s much easy to move around Sydney by water ways than it is by car and you still get access to all the amazing Sydney sights. Whether you’re planning on spending your time in Sydney Harbour (Port Jackson) or heading over to the Manly beach you can soak up the roasting Australian sun and take in the sophisticated atmosphere of chic Sydney.  Sydney’s summer months are December-February however you’d be wise to visit either just before or just after summer, as temperatures can soar as high as 40° and above.

Galapagos Islands

The Galapagos Islands situated in the Pacific Ocean form an ‘Ecudorian province’ and make up a national park and a biological reserve, and sailing round this marine paradise it’s easy to see why. The Islands are home to thousands of species of animals and made famous by Charles Darwin himself when studying them for his ‘theory of natural selection’. Both the Ocean and the land boast fascinating sights, whether it’s giant tortoises, sea lions lazing on the beach or snorkelling with the abundance of fish. December-May is the ideal time to visit the Islands as the air and the water is warmer around these months, it does rain daily, however ironically it is also the sunniest time of the year.

Author Bio: Leah Jarratt is a regular guest writer for Axia FX, foreign exchange specialists.

If you’re looking for uncomplicated sunshine and beaches within easy striking distance of one of the world’s most beautiful and fascinating cities, than you don’t really have to look any further than Salou.

Salou has been favourite holiday destination for north Europeans and particularly British holidaymakers for mean years and it’s easy to see why that is. Its easy location on the Gold Coast of North Eastern Spain – the Costa Daurada – its proximity to the capital Catalonian city of Barcelona slightly to the north and the fascinating Roman city of Tarragona to the south, as well as superb beaches make Salou a wise and economical choice.

Cheap holidays to Salou are easily possible with many tour operators, though it’s also easy to book a flight and your own accommodation which is an option preferred by many who want to stay at least slightly off the tourist trail.

Salou is very affordable, whilst its beaches are beautiful and safe. Most are “blue-flag” beaches, which make them ideal for families and when you consider that one of Europe’s largest and best theme parks, “Port Aventura”, is right on the doorstep, this makes Salou an even better choice for many.

But if you’re looking for a little more culture, Salou has it in spades. This was a port first used by the Greeks then the Romans. The port was also a centre for pirate operations which is why you can see Torre Vella, a defence tower, here – constructed by the Archbishop of Tarragona back in 1530.

Salou’s main beach is Platja Llevant which is widely regarded as one of the best beaches on the Costa Daurada. It’s very clean and slopes gently into the Mediterranean, making it great for all ages. Obviously, the resort and the beaches get crowded during the peak months, so it’s best to come in late spring or early autumn if you can avoid high summer. But if you can’t, try the Ponent beach next to Platja Llevant – or perhaps the smaller beach of Platja dels Capellans, which both tend to be quieter. And don’t forget to visit Barcelona while you’re here.

Salou offers a little bit of everything – and it does so very cost-effectively.

Of all the many vacation destinations available in the United States today, Hawaii remains at the top of the list for many seasoned travelers. Visitors delight in the chance to explore the different islands and the incredible variety of landscapes they offer. They adore the friendliness of the people and are enthusiastic about the many amazing attractions the islands offer. Below are just a few of the unique things to do and see during a vacation in Hawaii.

Kilauea Iki Trail

Situated in the heart of the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the island of Hawaii – which is the largest in the archipelago – this unique four mile hiking trail is the most popular of all the trails in the islands. It begins at the rim of a vast volcanic crater situated in a tropical rainforest, and then descends steeply to the barren crater floor, which is dotted with steam vents – the contrast between the two environments is amazing and visitors often say they feel they are crossing the arid surface of the moon. Steps and railings help with the ascent at the end of the trek.

Big Island Eco Adventures II Zipline Canopy Tour

If ever there was a superb way to enjoy the spectacular scenery of the island of Hawaii, this is it. With the added bonus of being supremely eco friendly, this three-hour adventure includes ziplining via eight runs soaring high above the mountains and crisscrossing the tropical ravines of North Kohala. Then there is an exhilarating crossing via a 200-foot suspension bridge poised above a fern grotto, followed by a welcome rest stop for a light lunch at the Mango Hut. Throughout the expedition, experienced guides describe Hawaii’s natural and cultural history, and the tour finishes with fabulous views of the Pacific Ocean.

Waikiki Beach

One of the most popular beaches on the islands is Waikiki Beach – a two-mile stretch of golden sand and home to the oceanfront Sheraton Waikiki hotel – which is located on Oahu, the third largest of the Hawaiian Islands. The climate here is usually warm and cloud-free, and the shore surf break – which produces long rolling waves – makes it ideal for beginners as well as tandem surfing and long boarding; half of the beach is marked off as suitable for surfing. Waikiki Beach has fabulous views of the Diamond Head tuff cone, and is located in close proximity to great shopping areas. It is also located within easy reach of upscale restaurants and clubs.

The romance of Hawaii

Whatever attracts visitors – warm climate, beaches, flora and fauna, volcanoes, water-sports – the overall impact of Hawaii is what makes it so special. It has a rich, complex history and the unique assortment of Hawaii’s ancestral groups makes a fascinating contribution to its vibrant cultural heritage. The aboriginal culture of Hawaii is chiefly Polynesian, and ancient ceremonies and traditions continue to be re-enacted in the present day. Hawaii has its own special fusion cuisine, customs and etiquette, folklore and mythology as well as music and literature that is unique to the islands. The combination of this magical ambience and the truly welcoming inhabitants of the islands make it an irresistible draw. The thing about Hawaii is … one visit is never enough.

Go to India

If there is ever a time to visit India, it’s now! Not only has the economy matured, but there are so many new developments that have made the tourism industry so much more exciting. It’s also easy to travel there with great prices on flights with major airlines like Delta, Go Air and Lufthansa. Of course there are the traditional attractions that include the many Hindu and Buddhist temples, the luxurious Maharaja hotels, the long, beautiful beaches, as well as the stunning forest landscapes. For hardcore travellers, the thrill lies in living like a local in the bustling Indian cities. New developments like the opening up of Jammu and Kashmir, the hosting of the world economic forum, as well as the rapid growth of Bangalore signal a new era in tourism. Prices in India are as flexible as you want them to be, and the experiences as authentic as you need them to be!

Russia

Another travel spot to look out for is Russia. The last few years have been disappointing for the former Soviet giant, but the government is going all out to rectify that. That can only mean two things: more investment in tourism and cheaper prices for the time being. If you have seen the grandeur of Moscow, and experienced the culture of St. Petersburg, then venture out further to old and well preserved cities in Russia. Travel to the “Cities of the Golden Ring”, a collection of three cities which have well preserved Russian sites dating back to the medieval days. You can also go to the city of Kazan, the “Third Capital of Russia”. Here, Christian and Muslim culture meet to create an unforgettable city tour experience. Rush and experience a holiday in Russia before the rest of the world discovers it and takes over!

Get good travel insurance

Do not get inconvenienced during your tour without proper travel insurance. The value of a good insurance cover cannot be overstated. Not only does it ensure that you get adequate compensation in case of emergency, it can also be the difference between life and death in some circumstances. If you suffer a violent illness while abroad, it pays to have a good insurance cover that can adequately cover treatment and even rescue costs. Today, getting good insurance cover is easier. Do proper research, surf the internet for reviews, and read in between the lines to get a clear picture of what your travel insurance really does for you. If you are going on a long trip travelling, then getting around the world travel insurance is even more important so you are covered in case things don’t go to plan.

Book cheap flights

Air travel suffered in the last year. As a result, quite a few air services have closed shop, with some major players recording lower profits and increased loss. This is bad news for shareholders, great news for travellers. As airlines struggle to get business booming, a lot of offers are likely to come your way in 2013. It is therefore a great idea to do proper market research in order to get the best deals on airfare. Book cheap flights by travelling during off-peaks and choosing small jet airlines for shorter travel routes. The savings you will experience can go a long way to adding more value to your actual tour experience.

Get your papers in order early

Nothing is as frustrating as being stranded in the airport without proper papers. Calling your embassy (which may be in another country!) to bail you out may just not work out. What’s more, you waste money on airfare and get turned back at the checkpoints. Avoid these costly mistakes by making sure your papers are in order at least two weeks before you travel. Check out visa requirements and even cross check them with your travel agent if possible. Do not ruin your holiday before it even starts!

To become a true world traveler, you need to experience all aspects of traveling and that includes cultural experiences. We’ve come across this great little graphic guide to several really cool cultural events happening all over the world. Happy Travels!

[Source: Flight Centre]