So, if you’re looking for an ideal destination for your family, here are some lovely suggestions that guarantee you a wonderful time.

Oaxaca, Mexico

This wonderful Mexican city is a great opportunity for children to discover new and exciting cultures, while having the chance to spend a lot of time engaged in outdoor activities. There are many playgrounds for kids and a vibrant market where you can purchase natural goods for them.

Istanbul, Turkey

Istanbul is a wonderful place for a family getaway. You can see and visit mosques, palaces, museums, amazing bazaars and shopping hot spots, food markets and wonderful cultural sites. Children will enjoy the Bosphorus cruises and the delicious Turkish cuisine.

London, England

London (creative commons)

You can visit London as many times as you want and you won’t ever get bored. There are places to visit, fun parks and great cultural experiences to be lived, what makes London a genuine family travel destination.

Los Angeles, USA

More of a teenagers destination, Los Angeles is a good holiday destination that encapsulates the notorious American Dream. You can choose between the original Disneyland, the Universal Studios and Santa Monica, and you will surely have a blast!

Vancouver, Canada

Vancouver is one of the most fascinating cities in the world. There are many beaches, a huge urban park – Stanley Park – and many outdoor activities which include hiking and biking trails. If that doesn’t seem interesting, you’ve got the Rocky Mountains nearby.

Lisbon, Portugal

With a breathtaking aquarium and a fascinating maritime museum, Portugal is without any doubt a great family city break. The city captivates the children and the fairy tale town of Sintra is just a short train ride away which gives your kids the chance to set their imagination free.

Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen (creative commons)

Copenhagen is all about a mix of old charm town with modern elements. The city can be explored by foot, which gives your family the opportunity to be more active. You can visit the Tivoli Gardens, the Royal Palace Museums that are especially dedicated to children’s activities and the Bakken.

Sydney, Australia

Sidney is all about the fun. You can enjoy beaches, swimming pools and many ferries for family rides. Not to mention the Sydney Aquarium, the Taronga Zoo and the Koala Park Sanctuary which are children’s favourite places.

El Golfo Beach in Lanzarote, Canary Islands (Spain) by Luc Viatour

If you have yet to book your summer holiday for 2013 and are in need of a bit of inspiration, never fear, because we’ve compiled a list of a few of the best places for a beach break this summer. Read on to check out our hot tips for a holiday filled with sun, sea and sand.

The Canary Islands

The Canary Islands have long been a favourite holiday spot thanks to their good year-round weather, excellent beaches, well-equipped resorts and staggering array of activities. Added to this are the amazing natural landscapes you can find on the likes of Tenerife, Lanzarote and La Gomera and you’re on to a winner.

But if you’re looking for a beach holiday, the archipelago is an especially good choice, with dozens of stretches of sand spread across the seven islands. There’s a lot of variety, too, with golden bays a complete contrast to the black volcanic sand beaches.

There are even natural swimming pools worn out of the rocks and amazing caves that you can explore, so a day at the beach need not only be about working on your tan.

Florida

If you’re happy to go somewhere a little further afield, consider Florida – which is a particularly good choice for families as there’s so much to see and do away from the beaches. However, the state’s Gulf Coast is home to some amazing bays and coves that you’re bound to want to visit if you’ve got sun, sea and sand in mind.

Parents with small children should head to Siesta Key near Sarasota, for instance, which is said to be one of the safest seaside spots for little ones. There’s also a lot of space here for sandcastle building – always a winner with the kids.

Should you be hoping to combine a beach holiday with the thrills and spills of Orlando’s theme parks, meanwhile, make sure Cocoa Beach is near the top of your list of places to go. This vast sweep of sand is really beautiful and is also close to Cape Canaveral and the Kennedy Space Centre.

Croatia

We’re returning to Europe with our next pick and it’s a country you might not typically associate with beach holidays – Croatia. However, its Adriatic coast is home to some real gems, from busy sandy areas to secluded, empty coves.

What’s even better is that, along with the destinations on the mainland, there are also dozens of islands dotted just offshore, so there are ample beaches for you to discover. One of the most famous – and most beautiful – can be found on Brac. Zlatni rat is a long, triangular sandspit that juts out into the turquoise sea on the south coast of the isle near Bol. It’s fringed by pine trees and is quite a stunning sight.

Other top destinations for a beach holiday in Croatia are located within easy reach of the cities of Dubrovnik or Split, providing you with the opportunity to discover some of the country’s astounding heritage while working on your tan.

Turkey

Our final suggestion is Turkey, which has made quite a name for itself in recent years and is considered to be a top place to go to if you’re after glorious weather, beautiful beaches and vibrant resorts.

Antalya, Bodrum, Oludeniz and Dalaman are just a few of your options if you’re looking for somewhere to relax in the sun while the sea laps at the shore. Oludeniz is very picturesque, thanks to its blue lagoon, while Dalaman is ideal if you’re looking for a beach that’s completely undeveloped.

The town itself is set back from the coast on a river estuary and its nearest beach is Iztuzu, which is protected because it’s a turtle nesting site. You’ll need to get a river taxi to reach the bay, and once you’re there you can enjoy the unspoilt sweep of golden sand.
 

Hiking by frayed passpost Creative commons

So you are going out on an adventure vacation, to explore the wilderness and the nature around you; you have done your bit of preparation in terms of sticking to a workout program, getting your shots from the doctor and booking your ticket.

Now the next important thing is to have an idea of what to take on the trip and what to leave behind. If you are going on a hiking, trekking, camping or any outdoorsy, trip there are few essential things that you just can’t afford to leave out and there are a few things that will make your life easier outdoors.

The essentials

Apart from the sports gear that you will be carrying, say the diving suit if you are going for a diving trip; or your mountain climbing equipment; or the your skis with gloves, goggles and warm clothes if you off to a ski vacation, remember to pack comfortable clothes for the trip. Comfortable clothing also extends to the shoes that you will be wearing. Remember to wear good footwear that will be able to survive the trek or activity. You wouldn’t want to be looking for a cobbler or footwear store there. A first aid kit is also essential when you are going trekking or camping.

Other important items

Sunglasses-on-a-blanket-by-Dasha-creative-commons

Sun screen

Whether you are trekking the plains of Machu Pichu, climbing the Rocky Mountains, rafting the Ganges or Skiing on the pristine slopes in Switzerland, a sun screen is a must on any vacation. Protection from the sun in any open environment is a must, you wouldn’t want to come back with burnt skin, besides avoiding sunscreen can sometimes get quite painful. Sun glasses are also great gear for any sort of vacation.

All-purpose knife

A must on any outdoor vacation, the all-purpose knife is almost as important as the first aid kit. You never know when you may find the need to use it, and it is always good to know, you have it handy.

Flash lights

Like the knife, the flash light is a good addition to the trekking backpack. You never know when you need it, and you are always better of keeping one on hand all the time, especially when you are out holidaying in the wilderness.

Insect repellent

Find out about the place you are visiting and prepare accordingly. If you are going to be surrounded by vegetation, you would need an insect repellent.

Bourg-St-Maurice view from Les Arcs ski resort by Dmitry A. Mottl (creative commons)

Most travellers plan their holidays around summer activities like relaxing on the beach or hiking along the coast. While there is no question that a tropical holiday can be plenty of fun, that’s not the only option available. Winter is a great time of year to go on a trip, especially if you want to try out some snow-based recreation activities. Whether you are a beginner, an expert on the slopes, you have an unlimited budget for international travel or you want to stay closer to home, there is a destination that will be perfect for you. Plus, there is a long list of fun winter sports for you to try including ice-skating, skiing and snowboarding.

Go Skiing at Les Arcs, France

With a location high in the French Alps, it’s not hard to imagine what a great skiing destination Les Arcs really is. Opened in 1968, this ski resort is known as one of the great family resorts of Europe, and there is no shortage of facilities, amenities and accommodations for thousands of travellers from across the globe. There are more than 300 miles of runs available in Les Arcs, and roughly half of them are suitable for beginners. Families love Les Arcs because of the child-friendly ski school as well as because of the restaurants and attractions geared to visitors of all ages. In the off chance that there is no snow in Les Arcs, which offers a breathtaking view of Mont Blanc from the 171 lifts, more than 400 cannons can make snow overnight for fresh powder in the morning.

Try Ice-Skating at Rockefeller Center, New York City

If you happen to be in New York City during the winter, there is no question that you should head straight to Rockefeller Center. This big complex is famed for its magical Christmas decorations, but the outdoor ice-skating rink is open from November all the way through to the end of the February. You can rent skates right at the rink, and there are even lessons available if you haven’t tried skating before. Bundle up, grab a friend and make some memories at what is probably the world’s most famous ice rink.

Ice-skating at the Rockefeller Centre, New York (Creative Commons)

Snowboarding at Whistler Blackcomb in British Columbia, Canada

Whistler Blackcomb is the largest ski resort in North America, and it boasts almost 5,000 acres of skiable area. It should come as no surprise, then, to learn that this destination outside of Vancouver is one of the most popular snowboarding spots on the planet. Skiing is possible, but it is snowboarders who rave about the efficient lifts, the terrain parks for jumps and the expert teachers who run the onsite snowboarding lessons. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced boarder, this is a scenic destination with amazing views from the runs.

Cross Country Skiing in the Tasmanian Wilderness, Australia

There is no need to get an international flight just to go skiing, and there are several places throughout Australia where you can hit the slopes throughout the winter. For cross country skiing, one of the top destinations in the country is the Tasmanian Wilderness. Around the base of the beautiful Cradle Mountain, you can ski along snowy pathways and take in the breathtaking scenery. Despite being a UNESCO designated World Heritage Area, the Tasmanian Wilderness is typically free from crowds. Even after a fresh snowfall, you will be able to ski in relative peace. Cross country skiing is ideal for beginners, and you don’t need extensive lessons to get the hang of it. If you don’t want to splurge on a trip to the Alps just to go skiing, stick closer to home by cross country skiing right here in the Tasmanian Wilderness.

Snowkiting in Odgen Valley, Utah

This is perhaps one of the most unusual winter sports around, but it can be a ton of fun. Snowkiting starts just like snowboarding or downhill skiing, but a power kite gets you off the ground, and it feels like you are flying. In Ogden Valley, Utah, you can rent a kite and take lessons.

Whether you are heading abroad or staying closer to home, don’t set off on a winter sporting adventure without insurance. Getting injured on the slopes or losing your expensive gear can ruin a trip. You can compare travel insurance quotes easily before you go. With peace of mind, you can better enjoy your awesome holiday.

Jamaican flag (creative commons)

Jamaica is the best holiday treat ever. This beautiful, large, mountainous tropical island displays stunning scenery, filled with sandy beaches and luscious rain forests making your holiday a memorable one. Lazy days are perfectly spent here giving you the possibility to enjoy laid back moments and doing an impressive amount of activities and adventures planned just as you desire.

Jamaica’s main attractions

You cannot imagine how many amazing once-in-a-life-time activities you can do whilst in Jamaica. Choose from horse riding on the beach, scuba diving, fishing, extreme biking, and river rafting, climbing the spectacular cascading Dunn’s River Falls or swimming with the dolphins.  For those not so adrenaline types pick a slower pace while taking golf courses, discovering fabulous beaches, engaging on boat rides, catamaran cruises and, why not, sightseeing gardens. Shopaholics beware; there are some places around here that will leave you almost bankrupt.

Jamaica Hotel resort ( creative commons)

Sunbathing while being surrounded by white sandy beaches and calm waters is a dream come true for every traveller out there. Everywhere in Jamaica you feel the vibe and the spirit of the legendary Bob Marley and that wonderful reggae music that is the core of the Jamaican culture. Not to mention the delicious Jamaican cuisine; this is a melting pot of flavours that reflect the different cultures that have influenced the island over the years.

Nightlife in Jamaica is very steamy and spicy. Gloucester Avenue in Montego Bay is the best place to find good restaurants, a long line of bars and trendy shops. For a good karaoke treat you cannot miss the vibrant Margaritaville which boasts 22different beer flavours and tropical margaritas.

If you are a music addict then you should know that Jamaica is the proud host of different Jazz and Reggae festivals.

If you plan your holiday to Jamaica choose the perfect staying for you. Book a hotel resort that has to offer amazing beauty and health treatments. If you have timeshare properties that do not provide you with all the needs you desire follow the advices of a professional timeshare services company. Right Choice Transfer has guaranteed results for timeshare owners who are in need of a way out of their timeshare contract.

So, what are you waiting for? Get your green light pass to Jamaica and enjoy an authentic five star holiday.

Tower Bridge, London by Twilight

London, England

Each year, about 15 million visitors from all over the world come to be wowed by the capital of the Commonwealth Empire. Indeed, London’s appeal extends beyond its royal connection. A vibrant cosmopolitan experience mixed with cultural sights and sound awaits you, and makes it a must on a tour of the British Isles.

For the traditional sightseeing tour, you have the task of completing London’s 60 top view sights. Do this conveniently using the London Pass, which you can purchase online. Visit the London Eye, Tate Modern, the Buckingham Palace, and so many other top spots on a blitz tour of the city.

For a true feel of the city’s culture, head to the English pubs, and sample true English beer. Get rowdy with fans every weekend at a home game for the premier league football teams, or watch a rugby match. The disco lights come on every weekend, and Londoners can party hard too.

You can also visit one of the reputed underground poetry nights, enjoy a delicious sample of local and international cuisine in restaurants, and travel around in the classic black taxi or red buses.

Valletta, Malta

The island capital of Valleta is indeed the gentleman’s city. Built by the grandmaster it is named after, it features an impressive array of architectural feats dating back to the 1500s. From beautiful cathedrals to imposing forts, the view across the city is magnificent. What is even more impressive is how the city has morphed into modernity, combining this ancient architecture with modern skyscrapers. The effect is a city that is literally a modern work of art.

Named the European Capital of Culture in 2018, a holiday in Valletta will transport you to building art from the Baroque era. Take a tour of the Floriana suburbs, enjoy the sights of the Three Cities, and wander through the Three Villages near the city. Do this in the backdrop of the beautiful Mediterranean Sea scene, enjoying fine weather and delightful sea food.

Valletta, Capital of Malta Photo by zoonabar, Creative Commons

Delhi, India

The city of Delhi is what India is all about: passionate, vibrant, and intense. This city is not for the faint hearted, neither is it for the prejudiced and biased. This is for those who will open their minds, and let the sights and sounds shape the way they see life. I can comfortably say this city will change you.

If you let the Indian experience in, it will truly blow your mind. Head to the Old Delhi (Shahjahnabad) for an exciting tour of the ancient life of the royalty. While the Havelis are not as grand as they used to be, they will give you a taste of the power and wealth that the noblemen who lived here wielded. To complete the power trip, visit the Jama Masjid and Red Fort. Also, take a tour of the Lotus, Anuman and Akshardham temples. Try a bicycle city tour instead of a “safe” bus tour.

However, it is the city life that will remain etched in your memories. Take a rickshaw ride, eat shawarma from a food stall, head to the markets for shopping and haggle like a local. Pick one of the downtown Delhi hotels so you are in the thick of the city and get a true feel for it. If you can, visit an Indian home and share a meal. Head for a feast and take part in a festival. Ensure you sample the vibrant disco scene too.

This is a guest post from Tom at Baby Friendly Boltholes, a guide to the best family holiday destinations around the world.

cadaques Creative Commons by MorBCN

Costa Brava is a beautiful coastal region in north-eastern Spain, with rough peaks lining crystalline waters. The rich Gothic architecture, the picturesque coastlines, the turquoise blue waters and the serene ambiance is everything that makes a person fall in love with this beautiful place. The relaxed lifestyle with indulgent Spanish cuisine and an occasional bite of the heavenly cheese and wine is just what you need to forget the hassles of work or stir up the artist in you; no wonder Costa Brava was one Picasso’s favourite destinations. So if you are planning on a visit to the beautiful shore of Costa Brave here are the top 5 things to do:

• Costa Brava has the most beautiful shorelines in Spain, stretching from the northern border of France to Barcelona. The most popular beaches are the Lloret de Mar- an arc shaped golden sand beach with looming cliffs, the Tossa de Mar- with its perfect sunny beaches that are popular with tourists. If you fancy the shoreline, you will find some of the best Costa Brava hotels that give you the perfect view of the beach.
• The Salvador Dali Theatre Museum in Figueres is one of the most popular museums in Spain. Salvador Dali is a surrealist artist whose hometown is in Figueres, and the museum is like a typical Dali project. Thousands of tourists visiting the museum each year and are awed by the art and sculptures.
• For those who want to experience the culture of Spain, a visit to the Empuries archaeological site at L’Escala is a must. These small fishing towns in the Bay of Roses where the ruins of ancient Greek and Roman Empires, are set amidst a back drop of the hills. You can also enjoy fresh fish at the local restaurants while you’re here.
• Costa Brava also has a varied and interesting wildlife which tourists can experience first-hand at many natural parks. The most interesting is the La Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park with 30 volcanic cones, craters and lava outflows. Another is the Cap de Creus Natural Park in Cadaques- the home of many writers and artists.

Lloret de mar Costa Brava Creative commons by Josep Renalias

• For the more adventurous at heart, Costa Brava has many water parks with exhilarating rides, situated quite close to the beaches. These beaches also offer a variety of water sports-sailing, water skiing, windsurfing, kayaking and snorkelling. The warm waters are also perfect for a swim. You can even go diving in the crystal clear blue waters and swim with the colourful fish and native flora. There is a lot to do on a day out at the beach in Costa Brava!

Mexico Creative Commons by Dave Morgan

Mexico is one of the most popular tourist countries in the world, lined by the Pacific Ocean on one side and the Caribbean Sea on the other. It has perfect sunny weather, a delightful cuisine and the friendliest people. Mexico is famous for its art and archaeology, pyramids and museums and its beautiful haciendas. It is the perfect amalgam of the modern and the traditional. If you’re planning a vacation to Mexico, here are some of the things that you shouldn’t miss out on:

• Mexico is popular for its beaches and resorts- both on the Gulf and Pacific coasts. These pristine, sunny beaches are perfect for a day out. Surfing enthusiasts will also find many great spots along the Pacific Coast, while the Gulf Coast is known for its calmer waters which are perfect for a relaxing vacation.  If you are looking for the best beach resort in the area, any Riviera Maya hotel is a perfect place to stay.
• Mexico has a rich culture and many festivals that attract tourists from all over the world. The most popular is the Dia de Muertos celebration in early November. The incredible cliff divers of La Quebrada are also a must see. Art lovers should visit the waterfront boardwalk at the Malecon to see some of the best modern art and folk art as well as sculptures lining the walkway.
• If you are an archaeology enthusiast, Mexico is your paradise-you must visit the pyramids of Mexico- the third largest in the world, the Pyramid of the Sun is located in Teotihuacan and Chichen Itza is now one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Mexico also has many archaeological sites, mostly located in the Yucatan peninsula. The most popular are Calixtlahuaca, an Aztec period city, Teotenango with the Plaza of the Jaguar and Zochicalco the cultural centre of the Aztecs.

La_Quebrada Creative Commons by Prayitno

• While in Mexico, you must experience the local cuisine which is famous for its authentic flavour and zest. Not just the high end restaurants, but while in the country, you must try out some of the local watering holes for a true taste of the Mexican cuisine.
• The Mexicans are a people who know how to celebrate life with boisterous fiestas suffused with piles of food and Mexican music and dance. Another holiday that must be witnessed in Mexico is the Cinco de Mayo holiday- also celebrated in parts of the US to commemorate the cause of Freedom and Democracy in the American Civil War.

For the time-pressed modern traveller who wants to get away from it all for a few days while still having access to plenty of things to do and see, the city break is ideal and is something that is becoming increasingly popular among holidaymakers.

But, with so many interesting destinations just a short flight away, it’s hard to pick exactly which city to head to, particularly if you’re only going to have the time to visit one place this year.

Below are a few suggestions for short-haul city-break destinations that really offer something extra special for travellers. Some are fairly established, while others are designed for those after something a little different.

Barcelona

It has almost become something of a cliché to include Barcelona on a list like this, given its huge popularity as a city break destination in recent years. But the Catalan capital has a stellar reputation among travellers for a reason – it truly is the king of city breaks. With brilliant cuisine, a rich history and culture, buzzing nightlife and a fabulous beach, there’s everything you need here for great few days away. Furthermore, there are plenty of low-cost flights to Barcelona available through airlines operating from the UK, such as Monarch and others.

Rome

Another classic city break destination and again with good reason. A visit to Rome gives you the chance to see some of the most fascinating historical and cultural sites in the world, from the Sistine Chapel to the Colosseum and the Trevi Fountain. And when you get bored of those, you can always just do as the locals do and pass a few hours leisurely sipping coffee on a cafe terrace watching the world go by.

Dubrovnik

It may not have the glamour of the major European capitals, but what you do get on a city break in the Croatian city of Dubrovnik is the chance to enjoy a picturesque city with plenty of culture and history and no shortage of charm. Simply spending a few hours strolling around the beautiful old town and harbour of this UNESCO World Heritage Site is enough to make you realise why Lord Byron once proclaimed Dubrovnik “the pearl of the Adriatic”.

Malaga

If you’re torn between a city break and a sun-drenched beach holiday, then head to Malaga and you can enjoy both of these all wrapped up into one. Malaga is Spain’s up-and-coming city destination, offering plenty of history and culture. Explore the narrow winding streets of the largely pedestrianised old town and check out landmarks such as the 11th century Moorish fortress, known as The Alcazaba, which perches on a hilltop overlooking the city. Meanwhile, thanks to its location on the south coast of Spain, Malaga enjoys plenty of sunshine throughout most the year and boasts numerous beaches both in and near the city where you can make the most of the good weather.

Friedrichshafen

This final choice offers something a little different to your standard city break. Located on the shores of Lake Constance in southern Germany, Friedrichshafen is a university city with a population of just 58,000 and is the ideal place for those looking for a more laid-back alternative to the bigger and better known city break destinations. The town itself offers historic architecture, friendly and traditional pubs and accommodation and plenty of traditional German culture. And all of this comes with the stunning backdrop of the lake and the mountains of Austria and Switzerland on the other side.

Caught in the hustle and bustle of traffic, waiting for my turn at the supermarket check-out or sitting at the computer waiting for inspiration, my heart turns to making my great escape. Stories on television, articles in magazines, even photos on billboards towering above me fuel my desire to pull out my credit cards and book my next trip.

I know people who spend months (sometimes years) planning their next holiday. One of my friends researches every element of a destination and anticipates every moment of every day before reaching for her credit card. Not me. I heart travel!

As soon as I know I can take a break from work and claim a week or two all to myself, I’m on the computer booking flights to at least one of the places on my long list of places to see. To make that list, a destination not only has to catch my eye, it has to catch my heart.

It’s not the Opera House or the Sydney Harbour Bridge that appeals to me in Australia, it’s the wildlife and the wide open spaces. When I see pictures of beached whales on long white beaches with everyday Australians pouring buckets of water to soothe the parched skin of nature’s giants, I want to be there. I don’t need a five star hotel and a restaurant with food to die for to make me happy if I get the chance to stand knee deep in the ocean making my own private effort to save a whale.

Food and restaurants are the last thing on my mind when I travel. I wouldn’t make a trip to Scotland to eat haggis or blood pudding, but I’d be in Scotland in a heart beat to stand on a street corner in Edinburgh watching a busker in a kilt, immersed in the sound from his bagpipes. The image of cobblestones beneath my feet, old stone buildings in my gaze and bagpipe music penetrating my entire being is irresistible.

The pyramids in Egypt remind me of geometry classes in school so they don’t hold much appeal, but the romance of riding on a camel across the sands alongside the pyramids is a moment I would really enjoy. I’m told that Egyptians with camels are as common as buskers with bagpipes in their part of the world. For me that’s one good reason to head Cairo.

Sometimes the most heart-felt travel is to the distant home of family or friends who live beyond our reach. When your heart swells and that lump in your throat makes breathing difficult every time you think of seeing those you love, you know it is time to make the trip home. Start packing.

Travelling is not about photos of famous landmarks, although of course I like to be photographed in popular places as much as anyone so I wouldn’t miss the opportunity for a few happy snaps if I am near Buckingham Palace or the Statue of Liberty. But I wouldn’t choose a holiday just to see man-made structures. Heart travel is more about the experience, the romance and the adventure a destination promises. It’s a spontaneous reaction to an image that stirs you.

Credit cards such as the American Express Cathay Pacific credit card stand at the ready for such moments.  Earning Asia miles to speed up my next holiday are the best qualities of such a card. I heart travel, do you?