Romancing at a luxury hotel in Sardinia

Sardinia has historically enticed and charmed its visitors, from the Romans, Catalans and Italians who previously ruled there to countless poets and artists seeking respite and inspiration. In his 1920’s novel The Sea and Sardinia, Gerbert Lawrence wrote of the island ‘This is a place on earth that remains outside time and history’. A big claim, and the hotels, restaurants and bars are definite clues that Sardinia has entered the twenty first century, but somehow the magical quality described by Lawrence endures (ignoring the plastic beach loungers).
Traditional villages and fairytale harbours from a seemingly different age decorate the ancient landscape, which won me over as soon as we arrived. The ancient geology is softened by rosemary bushes; wild figs and nuts growing in secluded groves. We found secret swimming spots and hideaways for picnics, the azure water deliciously warm to boot. The addition of tranquil spas, quaint harbour side restaurants and tastefully designed, luxury hotels in Sardinia (for the most part) add to rather than detract from the charm of the island, rendering it the closest things you’ll find in Europe to a secluded paradise.

Despite not being moved outside of time completely, Sardinia at least made me slow down a bit. Sipping coffee in the beautifully crafted harbour streets I did indeed take a nice deep breath out. Having visited Italy many times I was pleasantly surprised to find a stunning natural beauty and pace of life in Sardinia which is completely removed from the bustle and gusto of the mainland. Italy’s elegant, mysterious little sister island has a temperament and character of her own. And the wonderful thing is that far from being all beauty and no brains, Sardinia has culture and history that gives the mainland a run for its money. Walks inland lead to ruins and monuments from a variety of different ages and civilizations, small islands off the coasts providing the setting for magical daytrips.

The hotel was also spot on, mixing aspects of the traditional Sardinian vibe and classic service with all the luxury of contemporary comfort. The private beach for guests was a huge bonus and took away any hassle in terms of getting ready for and travelling to beaches. Our sea view from the private balcony was postcard perfect, and I found myself loosing hours sitting out there and taking in the view(alright, I might have been napping). Jacuzzis and personal butlers were also on offer, not to mention the array of tempting treats which laid in wait at the hotel’s spa.
The richness of the land and pristine quality of the water provide for a Sardinian cuisine which is colourful, fresh and irresistible. Lobster, tuna, squid and mussels are all freshly caught. Impressed by the food, I enquired to discover that the island boasts its own organically grown vegetables, beans, nuts and fruit which were used in the hotel menu. There was certainly a great balance being struck between fresh, innovative ideas and timeless tradition.

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Best Hostels in Europe in HostelBookers Awards for Excellence 2011

HostelBookers has revealed the winning European properties in its "Awards for Excellence" 2011, which is now in its second year.

To be eligible for an award, properties needed to receive the highest customer rating for a category. The only exception was the “Most Popular” category, which was based on the total number of bookings made in 2010.

131 properties have been recognized for their outstanding contribution to the budget accommodation industry within 11 categories, including: Top Three properties in each continent, Best Atmosphere, Best Value, Best Location, Cleanliness, Best New Hostel, Most Improved, Best Hostel with Wheelchair Access, Group Recognition, Most Popular and Best Eco-Friendly.

‘Top Three Properties in Europe’ include hostels in Riga, Rome and Lisbon.

Backpacking in Eastern Europe has become a rite of passage for budget travellers so tourists will be glad to find an award-winning hostel in Latvia. In the heart of Riga’s old town centre the Naughty Squirrel Backpackers (97.3%) is stag-party free and staff organise plenty of hostel activities.

The Squirrel Backpackers Playroom Area

With a rating of 97.1% La Controra Hostel is housed in an 18th century building and offers travellers a stylish place to stay in Rome. It is located a few minutes from the metro and Termini station is also just a short walk from the hostel which makes it very convenient for exploring the rest of the city.

La Controra Hostel Rome, Bathroom

Lisboa Central Hostel (98.2%) is a family-run property and is located close to Avenida da Liberdade, all the main sights and some great Lisbon nightlife. Offering both dorm and private en-suite rooms this hostel is the perfect place for any type of traveller including students, backpackers, families or couples.

Lisboa Central Hostel Twin Room

The Damrak Inn

Winners of the ‘Most Improved’ award had seen the greatest improvement in their customer ratings from 2009 to 2010 and include Amsterdam hostel The Damrak Inn. Meanwhile Plus Berlin won the ‘Best New Hostel’ award.

Plus Berlin

David Smith, COO at HostelBookers, states: “Once again we are incredibly proud to have launched the Awards for Excellence 2011. It showcases the quality of the budget accommodation industry and gives recognition to the exceptional properties out there. Guest feedback and ratings offer travellers an invaluable insight into our properties and also helped us to establish the winners”.

Full details of the winning properties are available on http://www.hostelbookers.com/2011-top-hostels/

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Make Valentine’s Day special. Win A Romantic Room for Two!

Just in time for Valentine’s Day, HostelBookers unveils its best budget accommodation options for couples, many of which are found in romantic cities in Europe. Consisting of charming guesthouses, boutique hostels and intimate B&Bs with romantic room designs, they are a budget friendly alternative to the hotel this Valentine’s Day. Here are 3 European favourites:

Ca’ Arco Antico Guesthouse, a beautiful Venice hostel is reached by passing under an old stone arch and through a peaceful courtyard. Furnishings are traditional with beamed ceilings and lead-latticed windows created by master Murano glassworkers. The Rialto Bridge with views of the Grand Canal is a five minute walk.

Located in Valencia, Rooms Deluxe Hostel offers 28 beautifully themed ensuite rooms, each one designed and decorated by a different artist. Think four-posted beds, Buddhist temples and flamenco suites. You’ll also find free internet, WiFi, magnetic keycards, housekeeping and a private parking spot at your personal disposal.

Newly opened St Christopher’s Mosaic House is located right in the heart of Prague’s historic city centre, just a short walk from the buzzing Old Town Square. Pop in for a cocktail at Belushi’s Bar or relax in the beautiful terrace garden.

In addition, HostelBookers is offering one lucky couple a FREE Valentine’s hostel stay! Entrants simply need to upload their most FUN couple shot while travelling together to the HostelBookers Facebook page to be in with a chance of winning. For further information go to http://blog.hostelbookers.com/travel/valentines-day/.

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Europe's Five Most Unique Cities

Travelling is a passion and the one who get addicted will not let its charm get away. A traveler always wants to explore new places and for all of those, I to want to share my experience of Europe’s five most unique cities. All these cities has had a history of their own and their charisma asks you to keep visit them again and again.

Paris:

Paris, the French capital is always known for great Eiffel Tower but there is lot more apart from that wonder of the world in this city. The question of what not to do in Paris is more important than what to do. The city offers so many attractions that they are even difficult to mention. Stay in an affordable hotel in Paris but make sure it’s in the center. A walk alongside River Seine, Disney land adventure, watching a Moulin Rouge show, visit to Notre Dame or just enjoying snacks at any road side café will definitely provides you the utmost pleasure. I recommend a Paris sightseeing tour if you want to see the best attractions that Paris has to offer.
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Istanbul:

Istanbul, the Turkish delight is the gateway of Europe and is the only city in the world which is located in two continents i.e. Asia and Europe. The moment you stepped in Istanbul, you will mesmerized by the finest architecture on both sides of Bosphorus channel. This architecture gives you the glimpse of so many forms like Byzantine, Roman, Greek and of course Ottoman as Istanbul has seen all of these civilizations in different times. The Blue mosque, Topkapi, palace, Hagia Sophia, Galata Bridge, Grand Bazaar and Princess Island are some of the must visit places.

Venice:

A European tour is incomplete without a trip to Venice. This Italian city is unique and one of its kind. Also known as ‘The Floating City’ or ‘City of Water’, Venice can easily be declared as the most romantic city of Europe. Beautiful Gothic style of architecture, its fashion galleries, music, art and cuisine thus everything is so special about Venice that one cannot afford to ignore this fantastic city.

London:

London is no doubt the heart of United Kingdom. If you are in Europe and not visited London then you have not seen anything in Europe. London a much vibrant place is a city where you can see people from almost every country. London will soon host the Olympic Games in 2012, so lots of development work is on these days. Madame Tussaud Museums, Thames River Cruise, London Eye, Windsor Castle, Westminster Abbey are some of the many attractions at London. London can mesmerize any one with its magic.
creditBarcelona:

It will be great if you end your European tour at Barcelona in Spain. Having a marvellous past this city enthrals you with its beautiful nights and bright sunny days. You can enjoy the Mediterranean climate at Barcelona which attracts sun-seekers from around the globe. Number of interesting festivals and events are on throughout the year at Barcelona which never let you weary. This city is full of life and colors and is known for his museums, Picasso’s paintings and many more.

Although the European continent has much more to offer but by visiting these cities you can feel the soul of the Europe. The joy which you get by having a Turkish Bath or by a quite walk at Champs Elysees Street in Paris is indescribable. Even visiting Piccadilly Circus at London or Barcelona’s old town will give you a life time experience.

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Planning your Indian Odyssey

Did you know that India has over 500 varieties of mangoes? It’s just one reason why a trip to India is worthwhile. India is an enigmatic, vibrant, unique and spiritually rich destination that is home to over one billion people. Because it’s such a multidimensional and intoxicating place it’s likely you’ll shift between loving it and being completely overwhelmed. But it’s a destination that has to be experienced, and throwing yourself into the culture and enjoying all the sights, experiences, tastes, smells and sounds of this country is the best way to get the most out of your holiday.

There’s so much to see in India, and a number of different itineraries and types of holidays you can choose from. Once you’ve booked your airline tickets all that’s left to do is decide which popular Indian destinations you want to visit:

- Delhi. Most trips to India start or end in Delhi. With its crowded and fast paced lifestyle it’s a great way to get immersed in the Indian way of life. Delhi’s attractions include Hamayun’s Tomb and the Red Fort. As India’s number one shopping destination, visitors to Delhi should head to Chandni Chowk (Moonlight Square), a bustling shopping bazaar.

- Goa. Located in South West India, visitors flock to the state of Goa to enjoy its beaches, churches and temples. Ruled by the Portuguese for over 450 years, Goa has a slightly different feel to the rest of the country. If you’re looking for some rest and relaxation after the hustle and bustle of the Indian cities, then Goa can provide a welcome relief from the crowds on a beautiful stretch of coastline.

- Jaipur. Popularly known as the Pink City, Jaipur showcases stunning hilltop forts and palaces from its rich royal past, bargain-filled bazaars, and some of the country’s best hotels. Jaipur is best enjoyed at dusk, and Amber Fort – the state’s ancient citadel – is majestic at twilight.

- Agra. Tourists are drawn to Agra to marvel at India’s most famous sight, the Taj Mahal. It’s a must-see attraction, and the marvellous white marble mausoleum lives up to the hype. The legacy of the Mughal empire has also left a fort and an assortment of interesting tombs and other mausoleums.

- Rishikesh. Marketed as the ‘Yoga Capital of the World’, Rishikesh is very ‘new age’. It’s location on the flowing Ganges River, and at the foothills of rolling forests makes it a setting well suited to spirituality. The generous sprinkling of ashrams and yoga and meditation classes makes it a popular destination for those searching for a spiritual experience. With its laidback vibe, Rishikesh is popular with backpackers and the starting point for those heading off to explore the Himalayas.

- Kerala. The pace slows significantly in Kerala, which is a strip of land between the Arabian Sea and the Western Ghats. With a pleasant climate, fertile land and relaxed atmosphere, it’s a little piece of calm and serenity in an otherwise chaotic country. It’s also an established spice centre, and well known for its Ayurvedic treatments.

India is sure to awaken your senses and captivate your soul. With a diverse array of destinations, sights and attractions, it’s a country that has something for everyone. When planning your Indian Odyssey, decide which cities and attractions suit your holiday goals and plans. With low living costs and the number of cheap flights to India available, India is an affordable holiday destination. To make sure you get the best flights, book your Indian odyssey early.

Image by: Ruby Benz

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A guide to your first travel experience

Student travel is exciting, exhilarating and a rite of passage for the young. With little to no responsibility, student years are the best and easiest years to pack up and set off on adventures and expeditions around the world. Whether they are extended backpacking trips or holidays during university breaks, the freedom and opportunity to travel should be embraced and enjoyed.

Setting off into the big wide world, however, can also be daunting as it places young people well outside of their comfort zones and calls for real independence. The challenges of independent travel, however, should not deter young people – stay safe, but don’t stay home! Here’s a basic guide on how to ensure you get the most out of your travel experience with the least incidents.

- Get travel insurance.

While your budget may be tight, travel insurance provides a necessary safety net from the mishaps, crime, lost property and illness that are an inevitable part of travelling. While you may be lucky and experience no drama, the security of knowing that you are covered should something go wrong will allow you to enjoy yourself all the more.

- Be aware and alert.

Travelling is all about experiencing new things, people and cultures. Because travelers and tourists are unfamiliar with their surrounds, they are often the target of petty theft or scams. Do thorough research on where you’ll be staying and be constantly aware and alert. While this should not be a preoccupation or a source of paranoia, it is helpful to keep your wits about you and realise your vulnerability in any given situation.

- Stick to your budget.

Most student travel student travel is done on a tight budget. It’s important, therefore, to not get carried away and exhaust your funds early on in your trip. Live within your means and take advantage of the latest deals latest deals for students and backpackers. Many hostels and travel companies offer significant discounts for student travelers.

a narrow street in Brussels, Belgium. taken last August 2010.

- Be flexible.

Part of the fun of backpacking and student travel is in not having everything planned. When you’re catching cheap international flights cheap international flights, and moving from place to place when the impulse takes you, not everything is going to go to plan. Be prepared to be adaptable and flexible and embrace the freedom and spontaneity of student travel.
- Be friendly.

Your travel experience will be just as much about what you see as who you meet and share those experiences with. Be open to new people and ideas and you’ll end up with friends of different nationalities all over the world.

Student travel is all about getting outside of your comfort zone and exposing yourself to new experiences, situations and cultures. The world is there to explore and enjoy. By following these simple guidelines, you’re bound to have the trip of a lifetime!

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Must-See Christmas Gift Fairs in the UK

1) BANKSIDE WINTER FESTIVAL - LONDON

This UK gift fair allows you the privilege to shop right alongside the River Thames in London's West end, just outside the Tate Modern Museum. This festival promises nearly 50 stalls displaying the perfect stocking stuffers for any taste. You'll find gorgeous Christmas crafts, handmade goods of leather, wood and ceramic, as well as jewelry at the Bankside gift fair. A large main bar supplies mulled wine and ale, while individual booths sell festive and seasonal food to keep you warm. The location can't be missed. Parades, tours, and performances aplenty make the Bankside Winter Festival a must-see.

2) BATH CHRISTMAS MARKET - SOMERSET

Set in a stunning location between the Roman Baths and Bath Abbey, this historical spot is the perfect atmosphere for a spectacular Christmas fair. The 2010 market will run for an extra 7 days, totaling 18 days for the longest running Bath Christmas Market thus far! Beginning on the 25th of November, the market will stretch into the second week of December, ending December 12th. More than a hundred traditional chalets offer everything from handmade gifts to uncommon items you won't find anywhere else. Decorative items will inspire and impress. This is definitely a gift fair not to miss!

3) LINCOLN CHRISTMAS MARKET - LINCOLNSHIRE

The Lincoln Christmas Market is the largest of its kind in the EU. While this market only runs for three days, vendors and visitors alike from across the world come each year to display and amass the perfect variety of Christmas wares. Carolers in costume, several hundred stalls, and a myriad of goods both locally produced and brought from afar make this a very special gift fair, indeed. The fair is set between Lincoln Cathedral and the city's Norman castle. Lincoln's Christmas market was the first German-style traditional market held in the UK.

4) THE FESTIVE GIFT FAIR - MIDLANDS

This exciting gift fair held annually in Birmingham will run this year from the 18th to the 21st of November. Over 30,000 shoppers are reported to enjoy this Christmas gift fair each year, and nearly all report it to be an excellent shopping experience. The fair includes a welcoming, festive ambiance inside with gift categories for everyone on your list. But not only that, those waiting in queue are entertained with performances of Christmastime favorites before even reaching the doors. Inside, talented musicians serenade shoppers as they merrily select presents. Many new vendor stalls are added yearly.

5) OXFORD CHRISTMAS MARKET, OXFORD CASTLE - OXFORDSHIRE

While the Oxford Christmas Market is a smaller market at approximately 30 stalls, it is held in the Oxford Castle and promises delightful performances by brass bands and school choirs. Handmade and fair trade items are sold from traditional wooden vendor stalls, and there is a small Victorian carousel for the children. If you're looking to skip the massive crowds, but still get an eyeful of English culture and architecture, head to Oxford for your shopping this year! The gift fair takes place from November 26th to December 12th.

Photo by:Mike Fleming

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Five Typically ‘British’ Hotels You Can Stay In

When you travel to London or any area in England, you'll want to stay in a typically British hotel to really get the feel for British life, instead of a basic chain hotel. England is well known for its bed and breakfasts, which are usually small, cosy houses that only serve a handful of guests and offer them a home cooked breakfast.

There are also other hotels in England that have more of a traditionally British feel to them. Hotel pr experts recommend the best hotels you can stay in to really get a taste of British culture:

1) Marygreen Manor

Located in Brentwood, just outside of London, Marygreen Manor offers the vacation experience of a lifetime. It's a 4 star hotel dating all the way back to the Tudor period, as you may be able to tell from the architecture of the building. Although they have been around since the 16th century, you don't have to worry about not having all of the modern conveniences and luxuries. The rooms are quite comfortable and all of them have air conditioning and high speed internet access. In addition, Marygreen Manor has a garden and conservatory, where you can go for a stroll or enjoy some tea. They also have the Tudors Restaurant, for a delicious bite to eat.

2) Lainston House

This lovely 17th century house is right near Winchester, and only about an hour from London. In addition to great accommodations and high quality service, Lainston House is known for their food. They have hard working chefs that use all local produce and food items, and make everything from scratch.

3) Taplow House Hotel

At the Taplow House you'll find an absolutely stunning building, as well as tons of beautiful gardens and grounds. It is located near both London and Windsor, so you'll find plenty to do there. Berry's Restaurant is located inside the hotel for some great food, and well known restaurants and pubs are also abundant in the area.

4) The Macdonald Randolph Hotel

Visitors to Oxford will be amazed at luxurious accommodations they can find at the Randolph. They have great rooms, delicious food, and even a spa. It is also located right in the heart of Oxford, so you can simply walk out of your hotel and into the attractions of city life. And don't forget to go to their infamous afternoon tea.

5) Pelham Street Bed and Breakfast

This beautiful hotel was built in 1823 and is located in the South Kensington area of London, so there are many attractions and things to do right nearby, within walking distance. It has three rooms, giving the place a very intimate feel, and you also receive a free organic home cooked breakfast with your room.

Photo by:Jonathan

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Scotland's Top 5 Must-Visit Destinations

1) Edinburgh Castle and its Royal Mile

Edinburgh Castle is built on the remnants of an extinct volcano and provides breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. From the royal mile below, the
Scottish castle is a grandiose spectacle especially at night whilst illuminated. A thousand years worth of history sits atop this rock as evidenced by the statues guarding the gates of the castle. These statues represent two of Scotland's most famous historical characters, Robert the Bruce and William Wallace.

August is the best time to visit the castle and mile because that is when the Edinburgh Fringe Festival is held. During the festival, the Military Tattoo is staged at the castle for 3 weeks. The over 50 year performance is a parade of the pipes and drums of the Scottish regiments.

Edinburgh’s Royal Mile leads up to the castle and boasts the world's first skyscrapers, the Scottish Parliament building and Giles Cathedral.

2) Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum

This free gallery/museum has recently become the number one tourist attraction after completing a 3 year remodeling effort in 2006. Found in Kelvingrove which is located opposite of Glasgow University, this museum hosts a broad collection of paintings and artefacts. The building itself is constructed using the finest Victorian (red sandstone) architecture and shows off Scotland's rich history through an extensive collection that has been accumulated over more than two centuries.

Additionally, there are sections focused on education such as the Study Centre, the History and Discovery Centre and the Multimedia Object Cinema. Exhibition halls featuring major fields of study like Archaeology and Zoology (with relative exhibits) are also available.

3) The Falkirk Wheel

Completed in 2002 in the town of Falkirk, the waterway structure connects Edinburgh and Glasgow via canal; making it easily accessible from both cities. An extraordinary feat of engineering, it is the only rotating boat lift in the world. Carrying eight or more boats at a time, the wheel scoops them out of the water and places them either up or downstream on the waterway between the two cities.

The Visitor Centre provides a great view of the wheel in action and is free of charge. Along with the standard food court and gift shop, the centre also possesses an interactive exhibition and a "fun factory" for children. For those tourists looking for an up close look, the centre provides a hour long boat tour.

4) Glasgow Science Centre

300 hands-on exhibits, interactive workshops, live science shows and an IMAX Theatre can be enjoyed this tourist attraction. But the highlights are the 105m tall Glasgow Tower which is the only tower in the world to rotate 360 degrees from the ground up and the Science Mall that houses the Scottish Power Planetarium and a climate change theatre, along with three floors of interactive exhibits.

5) The Royal Yacht Britannia

Visits to the yacht start at the Visitor Centre. Located on the 2nd floor of the ocean terminal, tourists can learn of the yachts incredible history before boarding. The tour can last up to 2 hours and provides insight into the life of the royal family and those that worked aboard the ship.

Guests are first welcomed through the Royal Brow and taken on a personal tour, they are then herded into the State Apartments for cocktails and whatnot. Afterward, special events are held including a speech given by one of Britain's past admirals and a viewing of the Royal Collection. A tour of the ship from the bridge to the engine room is also provided

Photo by:Shadowgate

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Travel Insurance Can Be A Lifesaver

When you're traveling to other countries, it's important to understand that many people's health plans don't travel with them. It is possible to obtain emergency funds when you are traveling to be wired into your bank account via a loan direct deposit, but why not be prepared? People in Britain may have to carry supplemental travel insurance that can pay for medical emergencies that aren't covered by their own national plans. Even Americans may have trouble receiving treatment overseas or find they get a large bill upon returning, if they suffer a medical problem while on vacation.

Medical Costs

If you have a pre-existing condition, like asthma, and don't know how you'll fare overseas and can't get coverage with a regular plan, different types of travel insurance can give you that supplemental protection, although some will deliberately exclude pre-existing conditions. So, don't forget to ask. In addition, you may be covered for a regular doctor's visit, but if you have to be evacuated by helicopter or ambulance you may end up paying the full cost of that without the right travel insurance. If you are pregnant, you can be sure you will want to look into what is covered by your regular health plan and what needs to be planned for using travel insurance.

Travel Insurance Is a Bargain

When compared to the types and risks associated with medical treatment, travel insurance is a bargain. You may never have to use it, but when you do it can really keep you solvent when you return, not to mention open your options for treatment should you need it. Travel insurance varies in cost depending on what you want to include, but it's almost never ore than 7% of the actual cost of the trip. It can give you peace of mind that wherever you go and whatever happens, you've taken care of yourself and your loved ones the best way you can.

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Experiencing Live Jazz in London: Where to Go

Jazz music fans traveling to London will find no shortage of great places to go to experience top notch live jazz performances. There are a number of jazz bars throughout London, all of which provide good entertainment and music. Below is a list of some recommended places to go if you want to experience London jazz:
1) Ronnie Scott's Jazz Club

This is one of the oldest jazz clubs in the world, having been around since 1959, and it is host to a lot of the well known names in jazz. They feature acts from the United States as well as well known groups around Britain. There is a main club room where the acts perform, and you can also order food and drinks there. In addition, they have a bar upstairs where you can go if you just want a drink.

2) Boisdale of Belgravia

If you want the best combination of exquisite food and good music, you'll find a lot to be happy about at Boisdale, in Belgravia, London. This members club (open to the public) looks a little like a traditional Scottish pub, but they have live jazz or blues acts every night of the week, with frequent tasting events and Scottish celebratings. And they feature anything but traditional pub fare. If you want regular bar food, you can get that, but their menu also has a amazing array of Scottish cuisine, all sourced from Scotland and prepared by their famous chef. They have a selection of Cuban cigars and a smoking terrace above. So if you're looking for a really and some good jazz music to go along with it, Boisdale is worth checking out.

3) Vortex Jazz Club

For live jazz music seven nights a week, the Vortex is a great place to go. They have been around for approximately twenty years, and feature great contemporary jazz artists. You'll find some well known artists as well as lesser known up and coming groups playing here. They have a full bar in the main club area and if you are hungry and desire some food, you can go downstairs to their Downstairs Cafe.

4) Jazz After Dark Ltd

Jazz After Dark Ltd is a small, intimate place to hear some great jazz music and have some good food. They have a jazz club, a full bar and a restaurant. They are open four days a week and are located right in the middle of London Soho for easy access. They feature typical New Orleans style jazz and it is a popular hangout for London's students.

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Top Four Eco-Friendly Holiday Destinations in Europe

Today, most of the people are intensely aware of their individual environmental responsibilities, even when on a vacation. Three major areas such as travel, accommodation and behavior, in which tourists should effectively reduce any impacts on their surroundings and help the holiday destination to become an Eco-friendly one. As a favorite tourist destination, Europe has also officially declared many sustainable holiday destinations:

1) Scotland

In Europe, Scotland is a fabulous place for tourists and one among the top ten eco-friendly tourist destinations. With wonderful lush greenery giving a stunning picturesque view, unique wildlife, beautiful beaches and a lip smacking Scottish cuisine, Scotland attracts many visitors to enjoy a green vacation. With many visitors coming by train from other parts of the UK and Europe, Scotland’s tourist carbon footprint needn’t be high. Scotland looks best in autumn and offers some of the exceptional leisure options on foot, bike and wild horse; hence, harmful carbon emissions during Scottish holidays are almost a zilch. Scotland gives a choice to even fish for your own dinner.

2) Cornwall

Cornwall is a city in England and an excellent place to enjoy nature. The city has some of the prettiest holiday cottages in wild and desolate coastal regions. Famous for its sustainable and Eco-friendly tourism, Cornwall actively encourages the tourists to use horses, bicycles and walking to travel around. With two coastlines, the city is famous for its longest stretch of seashore in UK with a stunning view. Cornwall has also amazing landscapes in the country side with distinctive characters and gorgeous natural scenic spots. Cornwall hotel and travel pr experts recommend Cornwall’s Eden Project, which is Cornwall’s biggest visitor attraction, welcoming over a million people per year. The Eden Project encompasses programs and campaigns to educate and remind people of our dependence on the natural world.

3) Nice

Nice is a city in the southern France, which is situated on the large bay of French Riviera. Again, it can be reached by ferry or train from other parts of Europe, negating the need for air travel. With a sunny and tropical climate, the city appeals many tourists coming from all corners of Europe and the world. The city has endless stunning beaches, attractive seaside boardwalk, remarkable museums and several ancient landmarks that draw many attentions. There are many eco-friendly boutique hotels, such as the HI Hôtel Eco Spa & Beach, which also offers organic food and vegetarian options. While enjoying an oyster lunch at Cote d'Azur or relaxing on a beach, you still can experience a green vacation in this eco-friendly holiday destination.

4) Bruges

In one corner of Europe, Bruges a mesmerizing splendid medieval city, is one of Belgium's circlet jewels. Burges or Venice of the north is a famous spot for tourism yet keeps the environmental impact in check. The Belgian tourism promotes TGV travel in the city and the fantastic local cuisine among the visitors while helping in keeping the city clean and green. During your vacation in Bruges, you will certainly observe the carefully cherished architectural and artistic treasures in this historic city, which can seem like you’ve gone back in time.

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Top 5 Most Beautiful Cities in Europe

1) Venice, Italy

Venice is a city unlike any other. The lights from the venetian homes and marble churches bounce off the canals making the entire town glisten. This sinking city is a masterpiece of engineering and architecture. Venetian beauty can be seen at its best Doge's Palace where oriental inspired Venetian styles are blended with classic gothic architecture to create a look that is uniquely Venetian. Water taxis and gondolas take place of automobiles in this romantic tourist destination.

2) Tallinn, Estonia

The capital of Estonia is Tallinn and it lies on the sparkling Baltic Sea. Famous as a port for Baltic cruises, Tallinn is a gateway to beauty both off its coast and on its own soil. The old town is a medieval glimpse of Tallinn from days of olde and features centuries-old cobblestone streets. At Christmas time, Tallinn is transformed into a winter wonderland and hosts one of the most popular Christmas markets in all of Europe. Tallinn has many museums, cathedrals and art galleries. Colorful buildings, outside eateries, English castles and church towers help to make Tallinn one of Europe's most unique and worthwhile cities to visit.

3) Vienna, Austria

Vienna is home to some of the most beautiful parks in the world. The Vienna State Opera House is a famously beautiful arena for the most celebrated musical performances. Marvel at the wonders of UNESCO world heritage listed Schönbrunn Palace and explore its breathtaking manicured gardens. For some natural beauty, visit nearby Danube Island, where you can go swimming, cycling or simply sit and watch the pretty world go by.

4) San Gimignano, Italy

Located in breath-taking Tuscany, San Giminano features impressive towering building surrounded by Tuscan countryside. The Duomo, an impressive example of Romanesque architecture, houses beautiful altars, chapels, paintings and frescoes. This medieval town is surrounded by a great wall that encompasses the town's fourteen towers of varying heights that make up the landscape of the city.

5) Paris, France

Beautiful gardens, castles, cafes and boulangeries make up the unforgettable capital of France. From atop the world-famous Eiffel Tower the entire city seems so petite and sparkling. The Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris is an architectural masterpiece of gothic architectural style. Some of the world's most beautiful artistic creations are housed with-in the Louvre Museum in Paris, which is an architectural wonder in its own right. The Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo are just two of the thousands of pieces on display at the Louvre. Paris is the city of romance, and with all of the beautiful art, monuments, architecture, and scenery, it is not hard to understand why.

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The Best Ways to Buy Travel Insurance

Have you decided you need travel insurance? If you want travel insurance, then you need to find the right company to supply it and come up with the premium on the policy you buy. There are several methods for obtaining travel insurance, but not all of them will be the best. We’ll be looking at some of the better ways to buy travel insurance here.

Use some of your company revenue to purchase the travel insurance rather than obtaining a loan or merchant cash solutions. It is best not to incur more debt in any business if it can be avoided.

Now that the monetary consideration has been discussed, we can look at online companies. Online companies with travel insurance make it easier to purchase your travel insurance. However, you have to be wary with online sites. Before you make any purchase research the company you have found. Is the travel insurance company a comparison site, independent, or is it part of a nationally recognized chain? You want to make sure the company is not a scam. Unfortunately, the internet tends to breed scams that are hard to recognize until it is too late.

You are better off sticking with a local or national company that you recognize. The downside is paying a little higher than you might through a different internet company, but at least you know they will pay out if you must make a claim.

It is important to compare even the local and national travel insurance companies to find the right deal. You want to buy affordable insurance for traveling, meaning you have to know what the competition is selling their product for. Comparison sites are handy for this, but you should consider calling the top three companies to double check their quotes.

Sometimes by speaking with an agent in person or on the phone you can learn about other discounts that would help lower the travel insurance. You can also work out a more affordable plan. Custom products can be obtained if you ask.

Travel insurance should cover medical, dental, any emergency transportation, rentals, trip delay or cancellation, and accidents. Travel insurance can also cover more than this if you decide you want more than one person covered. For example, if you are in an accident that was your fault you might need travel insurance to cover the other person involved. This type of policy is more expensive and only necessary if you do not have car insurance that covers the other motorists.

Once you have determined what company has the best insurance you are ready to buy with the best method, which is cash or check from your business.

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