Travel Scope – Hotels, Airports, Flights

bvarlese asked:

This is an average day on the streets of Iraq. PS- I don’t care about your opinions about the war, they’re meaningless to me and anyone else who knows what it’s really like here. Stop pontificating on my video and get a life.

StephenMarleyVEVO asked:

Music video by Stephen Marley performing The Traffic Jam. (C) 2006 Universal Records, a Division of UMG Recordings, Inc.

Sey-Ping

Bob Brightside asked:




It may surprise many to hear that you can find some great places to visit in the UK. Many people think that summer holidays need to be spent in foreign destinations but if you, like so many others, are trying to save some money this year then a UK holiday is the way forward.

The term ’staycation’ is now becoming very common at the moment with the number of people deciding to holiday here in the UK steadily increasing. There are a number of places that offer fun for all the family whilst at the same time offering great value for money.

If you are looking for somewhere fun with plenty to do for all the family then consider going to one of the many cities and towns in the UK. It is important, especially if you are travelling with younger children, that you find somewhere that will keep them amused for long enough to let you enjoy the trip as well.

A trip can soon turn into a nightmare if there isn’t enough to do for the kids as this can ruin your trip as well. Places such as Blackpool where there is the Pleasure Beach where you can enjoy the rides and game stalls they have. This is somewhere that suits everyone because the kids can go crazy on the thrilling rides such as The Pepsi Max Big One and you can relax in one of the many cafes around the area.

Many of the UK’s top tourist destinations have reported huge increases on British tourists and this is great news for the ailing British economy that has been hit hard by the recession. Places such as the Isle of White, Brighton, Cornwall and Cumbria are all likely (as well as many others) to see huge boosts in profits as many of us look to tighten our belts this summer.

One of the main advantages of holidaying in the UK, apart from saving money, is that you can really leave it until the last minute to go somewhere. Now, you may have problems booking accommodation as this year many people will be doing the same, but if you find suitable accommodation then you can go at any time.

A problem of booking a foreign holiday is that you now have to book well in advance of your departure date if you are going to find a good price. When you originally booked the holiday you may have been able to afford it, but situations can easily change and you may be short of funds when the date arrives.

Holidaying in the UK allows you to cut your holiday short if you run over your budget without causing too much stress and hassle and without costing you a considerable amount of money.

Kim Chambers asked:




The recession has hit the travel industry hard. This has been seen with the large amount of job losses in the sector, and even with the collapse of several airlines. The pattern has been repeated across Europe and there have been fears among industry analysts that the economic downturn will put people off their holidays altogether.

Fortunately it appears that, despite the straitened circumstances, UK citizens are not prepared to forgo their holidays. A significant amount of research and industry feedback has indicated that British travellers are altering their holiday habits, rather than cancel the holidays themselves.

At the close of 2009, leading travel companies Thomson and First Choice revealed that online polling had found that a massive 80 per cent of people were committed to their holidays and were planning to book their break – or breaks – as normal during 2010. The same number of respondents said that they were refusing to let the economic downturn alter their holiday plans.

The encouraging results were part of the 2009 Thomson and First Choice annual trends report, which also revealed that nearly half of all respondents would not be cutting the budgets for their holidays and 24 per cent said that they planned to spend more. Nevertheless, the recession was not without impact, as the survey revealed that many people are changing the way that they view their holidays.

Thomson and First Choice found that 6 per cent of respondents who had changed their holiday plans last year had booked a package holiday to ensure that they were covered by ATOL’s provisions in the event of their company going bust. At least they would get flown home, went the logic. This concern has remained, with 13 per cent admitting to making the same arrangement for their holidays this year.

Another way that UK holiday habits have changed in the face of the recession – alongside the growth of internet technology – is that the way in which many people book their holidays has changed. There has been a substantial increase in the number of holidays which are booked on the Internet using price comparison websites and the sites of smaller, independent holiday companies.

Holidaymakers don’t only do this to save money. The growth of tailor-made holidays booked at home is also in part due to the increased confidence that consumers feel about taking matters into their own hands and getting onto the Internet.

John W Ellis asked:




The volcano Eyjafjallajokull in Iceland has been doing its worst and spewing volcanic ash into the atmosphere, creating a cloud which has grounded holiday flights out of Great Britain. If you’re thinking about taking a holiday this year, why go through the hassle of going overseas and risk getting stranded in a foreign destination, when you could take a holiday in the UK, with the knowledge that you can get home again at the end of your holiday.

That’s the one of the many joys of taking your holiday in the UK; you don’t need to fly. And if you don’t fly, you won’t have problems any volcanic ash cloud which stops flights in British airspace. So, holiday in the UK and avoid the volcanic ash cloud.

Holiday in the UK and miss the problems
If you choose to stay in the UK, you’ll miss all these flying problems associated with the ash cloud. And why not stay in the UK this year? Britain has got plenty of holiday destinations for you to explore: take a trip to Devon or Cornwall in the south west, and try your hand at surfing. Holiday in East Anglia, and give boating on the Norfolk Broads a go. Visit Scottish Highlands and stay in a secluded cottage, or a take the family to a fun filled holiday park on the south coast. There’s plenty to see and do, so why not make this year your year to holiday in the UK?

What’s the problem with flying overseas
Many people fly overseas for there holidays, and apart from minor delays, this doesn’t normally cause any problems. However a volcano in Iceland has put an end to many people holiday dreams, and created some holiday nightmares instead.

When Eyjafjallajokull erupted a volcanic ash cloud was released into the air, this cloud drifted over the UK, which meant that it wasn’t safe for planes to fly. British airspace was closed for several days, meaning that many people couldn’t take their eagerly awaited holiday. And many more couldn’t fly home.

Is this volcanic ash problem likely to happen again
No one knows for sure whether Eyjafjallajokull will erupt again, or whether its neighbour Katla will erupt causing the same ash cloud based problems. What we do know is that when Eyjafjallajokull last erupted in 1821, magma flowed for two years. So it’s likely we haven’t heard the last of Iceland and its volcanoes.

Andrew Regan asked:




According to UK rail holiday specialist company, Great Rail Journeys (GRJ), 40,000 Britons take package rail holidays every year. Whether the change in attitudes is due fear of flying, or simply a move to slow down away from the hectic pace of normal life, avoiding the inevitable rush to meet tight deadlines imposed by connecting flights, and crowed airports – many travelers today have chosen that they simply don’t want to travel to their destination by plane.

Back in the 1950’s rail holidays were all the rage, despite commercial aviation just starting to take hold following relief from the austerity of the war and an excess of ex-military aircraft. As the 1960’s and 70’s progressed however, technological advances meant that flying became more affordable and traveling abroad by air took hold. For many years rail still had the advantage of cost over air travel for internal journeys, however the growth of the low cost airlines, and poor investment in the infrastructure of many of the UK train lines, has left a sad legacy for the UK rail network.

The change in the trends over recent years back towards rail travel, especially by younger travelers, may in part be due to the ease with which the Channel Tunnel affords access to Europe. It is common these days for young travelers to go on extended travels across Europe by purchasing a Eurailpass. These sorts of trips are most often associated with backpacker holidays, but they represent an extremely convenient ways to easily see a large amount of Europe as the Eurailpass ticket offers unlimited train travel throughout 18 different European countries.

With good networks of European lines, frequent departures on the busy routes and fast train services such as the German ICE, French TGV or the Eurostar connecting France with London, it can often be faster to travel by train rather than flying. One of the main drawbacks experienced by many rail travelers within Europe is the difficulty that can sometimes be experienced finding accurate information and booking linking tickets. Rail providers rarely have details of other rail providers’ services, and most UK travel agents can provide very little rail information once the traveler gets beyond Paris or Brussels. A few websites such as Seat61.com have sprung up to help fill this gap and, despite being an amateur site rather than a commercial venture, can prove to be a good resource for planning rail trips abroad.

UK domestic breaks have also seen a recent resurgence, with UK short weekend breaks becoming extremely popular for shopping trips, quick family getaways or for visits to London to take in a West End show. Recently a few short break travel companies and rail networks like GNER have teamed up to provide a wide variety of rail package deals to UK cities in an effort to bring more travelers back to rail travel by making journeys cheaper and quick holidays easier to arrange.

While the words of Robert Louis Stevenson, “The speed is so easy, and the train disturbs so little the scenes through which it takes us, that our heart becomes full of the placidity and stillness of the country”, may not seem to fit in with the current popular image of the UK rail network, many Brits appear to be turning away from the airlines in favour of the railways for trans European travel and short break getaways.

Yutaka

Eric Henderson asked:




With more people travelling further for their holidays the UK is often overlooked by many UK citizens as the choice destination for a special get away break from the hectic routine of business life. Tresco, a charming and beautiful location on the Isles of Scilly, offers a relaxed and friendly atmosphere for the discerning traveller to enjoy a wonderful UK holiday in comfort and style.

The rolling landscapes of Cornwall and the famous New Inn pub provide an excellent environment for the UK holiday of a lifetime. Beautiful scenic views and fresh sea air will revive even the most tired traveller and help recharge the batteries. There is a choice of fine holiday accommodation in traditional Cornwall cottages or luxury hotel accommodation in some of the very best facilities available in Cornwall.

If you decide to visit and enjoy your stay so much that you do not want to leave then the opportunity to invest in timeshare cottage ownership is available on Tresco. Choose from a good selection of traditionally built Cornwall cottages that have been brought up to date with all the latest amenities for a comfortable stay. Join the Flying Boat Club rental scheme and ensure that your place is booked for family reunions or organised gatherings with old friends. There are many activities available to indulge in or you can just relax and enjoy the surroundings and have a peaceful holiday in one of the very best locations in the UK.

If you are looking for a self catering holiday then Tresco also offers this facility in their charming holiday cottages. The boats outnumber the cars on Tresco island so be prepared for a truly remarkable holiday in the UK that you have never experienced before. Take a refreshing country walk and enjoy the local scenery or eat in style at the luxury hotel, there are plenty of choices on Tresco. You can also explore the Island and see all the wildlife or take a boat trip and indulge in some fishing with one of the other energetic hotel guests.

The famous New Inn pub serves quality food and real ale and is open all year round so whenever you decide to visit Tresco you can be sure there is a great place to go to enjoy a relaxing evening with good food and a fine traditional bar. The New Inn also offers comfortable bedrooms if you just do not want to leave. Make sure that you consider Tresco for your next UK holidays and experience the peaceful ambience that the island has to offer.

Sybyl

Nick Beesley asked:




Two words haunting the minds of all holidaymakers this year is the dreaded Swine Flu. Wherever you plan to travel in the world there is now widespread concern for the health of travellers and locals alike. The British government has implored UK travellers not to leave the country until your symptoms have eased.

Relevant travel advice is readily available dependant on your holiday destination. A jaunt across Europe now requires you to hold your free European Health Insurance Card, entitling you to free treatment and consultation during your time in a European Economic Area country. If you are considering venturing even further afield it would be wise to seek guidance from your local GP. The Foreign Office of your destination country will also provide updates and responses to ensure travellers stay one step ahead of the virus.

It would also be wise to confirm with your airline whether passengers with flu-like symptoms will be allowed to board their services. At present it is up to the individual airlines to implement their own procedures – but by warned many airlines are currently employing stringent checks.

Numerous international airports have introduced medical screening prior to accepting inbound passengers. It is quite probable that you will be quarantined if such screening methods confirm signs of Swine Flu. By seeking medical advice prior to your visit you can eliminate the possibility of becoming isolated away from home.

If you have planned ahead and booked travel insurance for your holiday it is straightforward to submit an insurance claim following illness. Insurers who are members of the Association of British Insurers can use their label from anti-flu drugs to validate your cancellation claim. The British National Pandemic Flu Service will provide flu victims with all necessary documentation to negotiate a swift stress-free insurance claim. Merely ensure you retain all original documentation including the medication label to validate your process.

By remaining well informed by your local GP and relevant Foreign Office you can look forward to an enjoyable holiday.

Keven

James H Hunt asked:




Streching from the Shetland Islands in the North to Lands’ End in the South, the big geographic diversity of the British Isles offers a wide range of activities for all the family who want to spend their summer holiday somewhere in the United Kingdom.

With the proximity of Brighton to the West and Hastings to the East, East-Sussex offers a wide variety of opportunities for a family summer holiday. In summer, the long sandy beaches will allow you to enjoy *********** such as windsurfing and sailing. However, East-Sussex is also home to popular tourist attractions like Hastings Castle and Beachyhead that are also best enjoyed during the summer months. Brighton, the county’s biggest city, and its wild nightlife also offers the possibility of a night out and shopping opportunities.

Further up the East Coast, situated in the heart of East-Anglia, Suffolk offers the possibility of enjoying the wilderness of the North Sea coast and Suffolk Broads National Park that has often been described as an “Area of outstanding natural beauty”. What’s more, as Suffolk is one of the UK’s most rural counties, so it is the ideal place for walks in the countryside. Newmarket also offers the possibility of enjoying a day watching horseracing. This part of England is best enjoyed during the summer holidays when the nice weatehr will allow you to enjoy the Suffolk countryside and the horseracing season is at its highest point.

Located in the North West of England, Southport is a seaside town on the coast of the Irish Sea close to Liverpool and Preston. It is the ideal place for a summer holiday with its long sandy beach and Southport Pleasureland that offers rides for all the family. Birthplace of the Beatles and former European Capital city of Culture, Liverpool, offers a wide range of cultural activities such as the Beatles Story and Tate Liverpool, the largest gallery of modern and contempary art outside of London. Along with a wide variety of cultural activities, Liverpool also offers many shopping opportunities.

A bit more down the South-West coast of Britain lies the North Wales coast that also offers some great opportunities for a summerbreak that can be enjoyed by all the family. Not only does it offer beach holiday opportunities along the long sandy beaches of the Irish Sea, it is also possible to enjoy a walking holiday in the region as it plays host to the Snowdonia National Park. Furthermore, North Wales also has a rich cultural heritage, offering the possibility to visit a medival castle or a disused slate mine, or even enjoy a ride along one of the many steam railways, such as the Ffestiniog railway. The best time to visit North Wales is during the summer holiday period as it marks the height of the tourist season in North Wales.

Further down the coast, on the English side of the Severn Bridge, lies the UK’s sunniest county, Sommerset. The sunny weather conditions will therefore allows you to enjoy a beach holiday at one of the county’s many seaside resorts. However, Sommerset also offers spectacular geological features such as the Cheddar Caves and the Wookey Hole that are both very popular tourist attractions, particularly during the summer holidays. Other summer attractions that are particularly popular during the summer period include the SeaQuarium in Weston-Super-Mare and the Longleat Safari Town.

Wherever you go in the UK, the summer holiday period is the best time to go as the better weather conditions will allow families to enjoy a wide ranging from enjoying a Sommerset beach to a visit to Hastings castle and from a visit to Liverpool to a walk through the Suffolk countryside. What’s more, contrary to popular belief, the UK enjoys as much sunshine during summertime as most other places in Europe.

Phillip Adams-Wright asked:




When we go on holiday we tend to associate it with relaxing by the pool, sunning ourselves in the Mediterranean sun and dining in a traditional restaurant overlooking the sea. This is of course very relaxing but for many families they are looking for more to do on holiday, the increased awareness of being active.

The worrying obesity rate in the UK has meant parents are more interested in family bike rides than lying on the beach. The problem with wanting to be active whilst away on the continent is that the weather and humidity may mean that you can’t freely go for a bike ride or hike as you’ll tire instantly, especially small children.

This is one of the main draw factors for holidaying here in the UK, with a more neutral climate we can enjoy periods of sun as well as cooler weather that can cool you down when on a mountain bike. Of course the UK still has many popular beach resorts for those who want a bit of the beach holiday experience.

Typically the UK’s beach resorts have a whole host of activities at various holiday parks or the many theme parks dotted around the country, a famous example is Blackpool Pleasure Beach. But many people may have shirked the idea of holidaying in the UK in the past because of our notoriously temperamental weather.

What few people are aware of though is that when you are abroad in an otherwise sunny country and it rains, there is normally not much to do until the rain goes away. Here in the UK on the other hand we plan for these instances and have many indoor activities and sources of entertainment. In Skegness there is even the UK’s first themed indoor family resort so that whilst there are outdoor attractions there is still plenty to do if you’re confined to the indoors.

Away from the beaches there are also plenty of attractions further inland in the country, the United Kingdom is home to many impressive National Parks such as the Lake District where hiking, pony trekking and mountain biking are immensely popular as well as being excellent forms of exercise. The fresh country air is just one of many bonuses of holidaying in the UK.

This year it seems that many families are looking for more to a holiday than just sitting in the sun and are looking for a more healthy way to spend their time off, with all the activities available in the UK it’s no wonder that over the past two years UK tourism figures have skyrocketed.

Initially thought to be the working of the financial crisis currently in effect this rise has seen many UK holiday parks and countryside guesthouses reporting great business and their guests claiming that this year they want to spend their holidays as a family doing something fun and active to let the children spend up all their energy whilst enjoying the exercise at the same time.