Destinations

Whether you’re after a laid-back retreat or a fast-paced action holiday, Austria certainly ticks a lot of boxes.

In the Tirol you’ll be surrounded by snow-capped mountain peaks, green valleys and mountain streams. The Salzburgerland provides you with unspoilt mountain villages, cascading waterfalls such as Krimml, and lively lake resorts, while the Salzkammergut is a feast for your eyes, with pretty towns dotted along scenic lake shores. Make time to visit at least one of the wonderful cities of Austria - choose from the imperial capital, Vienna with its famous café culture, the musical city of Salzburg and its impressive fortress or, surrounded by mountain peaks, the Olympic city of Innsbruck.

If you love walking, Austria should definitely be one destination to cross off your list. As one of Europe’s premiere walking destinations there’s an extensive range of trails covering mountain terrain, lake shores, valleys and woods. Walking is not the only activity you can get stuck into though – take a dip in crystal clear lakes, spend a day mountain biking, tame the wild waters on a rafting trip or even try out summer glacial skiing. Golf also features highly on the radar, with over 20 courses to choose from in the Tirol alone.

You’d be missing out if you didn’t capture some of Austria’s wonderful local culture too. Music, arts and traditional festivals are held all over throughout the summer months. Tuck in at St Johann’s annual Dumpling Festival or perhaps sit out at a street café and admire local lederhosen-adorned troupes performing live music and dancing in the picturesque town squares.

Don’t forget to sample some of the national dishes either. For the sweet-toothed there’s a fine range of mouth-watering pastries – such as kaiserschmarren, strudel and creamy gateaux. Alternatively if you prefer something more savoury - try out Tiroler gröstl, Wiener schnitzel and käsespätzl. Local breweries produce some of Europe’s finest beers - and wine lovers, you’re covered too. The native wines, mostly from the East, are also really yummy. And you can’t leave without sampling, Austria’s finest export – schnapps.

A tropical island with a surprisingly British feel‚ where cricket and afternoon tea are as popular as sunbathing and watersports. With rugged beauty on the east coast‚ calm beaches in the west and lively resorts in the south‚ plus colonial towns and plantations‚ holidays to Barbados are ideal for sightseeing. Picture yourself on a white coral beach and start planning your idyllic Barbados holiday.

Bulgaria is located in Southeast Europe, in the northeast part of the Balkan Peninsula. Its territory is located between 44°13’ and 41°14’ north latitude, 22°22’ and 28°37’ east longitude. It is a European, Balkan, Black Sea and Danube country. This geographic location places it on the crossroad between Europe, Asia and Africa.

Bulgaria is situated closer to the Equator than the pole. It falls within the southern part of the temperate climate zone with subtropical influence. Its location on the transition line between two climate zones influences the climate, soils, vegetation and animal species. All of them are characterized by great diversity. The country’s geographic position also determines the relatively wide angle of sunlight that falls on the country, making the country predominantly sunny. The official time in Bulgaria is Eastern European Time, which is two hours ahead of Greenwich Time. The Black and the Aegean Sea also influence the country’s climate. The influence of the Mediterranean is extensive for the climate in the southern parts of the country, while the Black Sea influences the climate over an area extending some 40 km inland, supporting diverse flora and fauna. The Danube River is important for the country, both with regard to water resources and for species diversity. Bulgaria’s favorable geographic location creates excellent preconditions for the development of tourism.

Bulgaria is also a transport crossroad, affording access to Western Europe, the Near East and the Middle East, and the Mediterranean. A series of major European transport corridors pass through Bulgaria. These corridors include the international highways that connect Western and Central Europe the Near East and the Middle East (through Beograd to Sofia and Svilengrad), including connections to Baghdad and Basra on the Persian Bay; from the Baltic Sea to the Aegean Sea (from Moscow to Kiev, Bucharest, Ruse, and Stara Zagora to Thessaloniki) and to the Adriatic Sea (from Sofia through Skopje to Drach). Another important transport route is the road from Constanta to Varna, Burgas, Tsarevo, Malko Tarnovo and Istanbul. Bulgaria is also connected to the Trans-European networks that lead from Berlin to Prague, Budapest, Sofia, Thessaloniki, and Istanbul and from Durres to Tirana, Skopje, and Sofia to the Black Sea ports of Varna and Burgas. These transport corridors are also serviced by rail. Bulgaria’s Black Sea ports connect with all other countries that border the Black Sea countries, offering particularly excellent opportunities for the development of transport through the large bays that front Burgas and Varna. Along the Danube River the country connects with the transport corridor that leads to the Rhine and the network of waterways that crisscross Western Europe.

The total length of Bulgaria’s borders is 2,245 km. Of these borders, 1,181 km are on land, 686 km are on rivers, and 378 km are on the sea. Bulgaria borders to the north with Romania, to the east with the Black Sea, to the south with Turkey and Greece, and to the west with Macedonia1 and Serbia. The distances between Sofia and the capitals of the neighboring Balkan states are: Skopje - 239 km, Beograd – 374 km, Bucharest – 395 km, Athens – 837 km, Ankara – 1,012 km. The following checkpoints (BCCP) operate on Bulgaria’s borders – along the Bulgaria-Serbia border – BCCP Bregovo, BCCP Vrashka Chuka, BCCP Kalotina, BCCP Strezimirovtsi, BCCP Oltomantsi; along the Bulgaria-Macedonia border – BCCP Gyueshevo, BCCP Stanke Lisichkovo, BCCP Zlatarevo; along the Bulgaria-Turkey border – BCCP Malko Tarnovo, BCCP Lesovo, BCCP Kapitan Andreevo; along the Bulgaria-Greek border – BCCP Kulata, BCCP Ilinden, BCCP Kapitan Petko Voyvoda, BCCP Ivaylovgrad, BCCP Zlatograd; along the Bulgaria-Romania border – BCCP Vidin (by ferry), BCCP Oryahovo (by ferry), BCCP Ruse – the Danube bridge, BCCP Silistra, BCCP Kardam, BCCP Durankulak; on the river ports – BCCP Vidin, BCCP Lom, BCCP Somovit - Nikopol, BCCP Svishtov, BCCP Ruse, BCCP Tutrakan, BCCP Silistra; at the sea ports – BCCP Balchik, BCCP Varna, BCCP Burgas, BCCP Tsarevo, and at the airports – BCCP Sofia Airport, BCCP Plovdiv Airport, BCCP Gorna Oryahovitsa Airport, BCCP Varna Airport, and BCCP Burgas Airport.

Come summer or winter, Cyprus holidays are the perfect choice for those who dream of a holiday in the sun. Offering fantastic weather all year round, Cyprus is an ideal destination for holidaymakers who prefer flexibility when it comes to their travel times - as well as a country whose dynamic historical and cultural aspects will serve to immerse you in wonder throughout your entire trip.

393 Greek beaches and 9 marinas awarded the Blue Flag for 2013.

Greece once again ranked second place on the Blue Flag quality award list among 49 countries with one beach less compared to 2012, the Hellenic Society for the Protection of Nature announced at a special event held on 26 May at Voula beach, in Attica. A total of 393 beaches and nine marinas were honored with the quality “Blue Flag” award in Greece.

The «Blue Flag» is a programme of environmental awareness and protection which is implemented every year, on a large scale, in more than 40 countries in Europe and other parts of the world by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE). It aims at making marinas better and safer, while at the same time protecting their natural environment, so that we may always enjoy them. The Hellenic Society for the Protection of Nature (HSPN) is responsible for the programme in Greece. It is the oldest conservation organisation in the country and has been active in environmental education and the protection of nature since 1951.

It is not easy for a marina to be awarded the «Blue Flag». It must meet 24 strict criteria, which have to do with the cleanliness of the marina, its organisation, the safety of its visitors, the protection of nature and environmental awareness. Even when a marina is awarded the «Blue Flag», it only keeps it that year and must prove that it deserves it for the following year. The inspectors of HSPN and FEE visit marinas throughout the bathing period and note any problems or shortcomings.

Usually a short period of grace is given to correct them, but a marina may temporarily, or even permanently, lose its flag for serious deficiencies.

Natural Splendours in Iceland

The Land of Legends

The good life

Postcard-perfect scenery, gorgeous beaches and cities stacked with big-name sights – long-legged Italy manages to pack a lot into its borders. And no matter which part of the boot you plump for, you’ll find fantastic food, fine wines and a healthy dose of la dolce vita.

Explore the boot

In the north, romantic Venice reigns supreme, while nearby Lido di Jesolo supplies the sands. A bit further south lies Campania, home to the dramatic Amalfi Coast and cliff-hugging towns like Sorrento, Ravello and Positano.

Italian islands

Holidays to Italy aren’t just confined to the mainland, though. At the toe of Italy’s boot is Sicily, which ticks off gorgeous beaches, ancient ruins and friendly resorts. And then there’s Sardinia, with its craggy coastline and sun-bleached beaches.

A treasure trove of history blessed with abundant sunshine. Resting in the heart of the Mediterranean, Malta promises clear blue skies and sparkling bays. Soak up a sleepy pace of life and discover a rich history dating back 7,000 years with our selection of Malta holidays. With a strong British influence, the small island nations of Malta and Gozo are a home from home.

Great food, friendly people, beautiful scenery and a unique culture carved from centuries of incredible history.

The cities, palaces, castles, cathedrals and landscapes are like a readymade movie set. And with such an abundance of local history, Poland holds some very important reminders of the past. Our focus is in the south – in particular the cultural and historic city of Krakow and Zakopane in the Tatra Mountains.

Medieval Krakow, Poland’s former capital, is listed as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site and is home to the famous Cloth Hall, Bell Tower and Wawel Castle. Also the old Jewish quarter, Kazimierz, is now a lively area full of excellent restaurants and bars.

Picturesque Zakopane provides you with a real taste of Polish mountain culture. It’s the home of the Highlanders who have preserved the traditions and customs of the area for generations and is an ideal base for a walking holiday.

Poland has a lot of influences from across the borders - however delicious native dishes well worth trying include perogi dumplings and bigos stew. The Highlanders produce some amazing cheeses from sheep milk too. And as Poland is still relatively cheap you’ll get more holiday for your money.

Saint Lucia is the perfect destination, whether you're after romance, rejuvenation or adventure. A genuine, natural landscape of gorgeous palm-fringed beaches, miles of unspoiled rainforest and the majestic Piton Mountains, are sure to indulge every taste. Natural waterfalls, breath-taking views, friendly locals and authentic culture impress the most travelled individuals for a holiday with lasting memories.

The perfection of this escape should be shared. Tropical weather, welcoming accommodations, and unexpected adventures await all who travel to this paradise island. Romance can be found at upmarket resorts and intimate inns. Bask together under the Caribbean sun, sail into a champagne sunset, and cuddle beneath the vast starry sky. Discover new romance and re-spark old love over a candlelight dinner on a secluded beach.

For those planning a family getaway, you too can visit Saint Lucia. Enjoy on-site water parks, kids' menus and evening entertainment for everyone. Adventure seekers can surf and sail in the pristine waters. ATV adventures and rainforest zip-lining are family favourites. Relaxation isn't far off either with many resorts offering kids' activities so parents can enjoy a cocktail, a quiet hour together, or a couple's massage. Grab the kids, your partner and your sunscreen; this is a family holiday that everyone will enjoy.

Just two and a half hours from London, Tunisia is a country where you will find your fill of blue sky and sunshine, extraordinary heritage and original traditions.

Home to the ancient city of Carthage with thousands of years of history, the magnificent Sahara desert and beautiful Mediterranean beaches, Tunisia offers a range of activities and sights.

As descendants of indigenous Berbers and a colourful mix of umpteen civilizations, modern Tunisians are a mix of ethnicities that have invaded, migrated to, and been absorbed into the population over three millennia.

As a result, Tunisians are truly Mediterranean, being a "bridge" of peoples between Africa, Europe and the Levant for over 3,000 years. Recorded history commences with the arrival of Phoenicians, who founded Carthage and other North African settlements in the 8th century B.C. Over time, the Romans, Arabs, Ottoman Turks and French realised its strategic importance, claiming it as a hub for regional control and gain. As a major power, Carthage was at the heart of Mediterranean sea-trade, situated close to vital shipping routes. The Roman decline and fall in the 5th century and the capture of Carthage by Vandals in 439 prompted a Berber uprising but the Byzantines defeated both groups in 533. The Muslim conquest in the 7th century dramatically transformed Tunisia’s ethnic make-up, sparking migration from around the Arab world.

Tunisia was a French protectorate from 1881 until independence in 1956 – a 75 year era that further shaped its cultural fusion. Post-liberation Tunisia was led for three decades by Habib Bourguiba. A progressive who furthered secular ideas, Bourguiba introduced some of the most advanced women’s rights in the Arab world. Reluctant to relinquish power he was eventually ousted in a 1987 bloodless coup. Zine el-Abidine Ben Ali took over the reins but stepped aside during the Arab Spring unrest of 2011. Tunisia’s first democratic elections since independence followed 10 months later, prompting large numbers to turn out to vote for Ennahda, a moderate Islamic party. Hamadi Jebali was appointed Prime Minister. Tunisia retains strong political and economic ties with the European Union. The EU accounts for over 65 per cent of Tunisian imports and more than 74 per cent of exports. Holidaymakers from Europe also represent around 80 per cent of Tunisia’s visitors each year.
ARCHAEOLOGY

Tunisia’s landscape is liberally peppered with historical monuments. These pertain to diverse civilizations spanning 3,000 years, from entire ancient settlements to shrines, amphitheatres, bathing houses, churches and cenotaphs. Phoenicians, Romans, Vandals, Byzantines, Spaniards, Turks, and the French have each left an imprint on the nation’s storied terrain with well-preserved sites and intriguing age-old ruins at every turn. Growing numbers of Tunisia’s multitude of archaeological sites are now open to visitors. Seven sites have UNESCO World Heritage Site status with 46 new additions slated for UNESCO inscription – amongst them the hill-sunk Roman ruins in Oudhna which are smaller than those at El Djem, the site of the largest Roman amphitheatre in North Africa, but are nothing short of jaw-dropping nonetheless.

The sites most visited are those with the easiest access, such as:

    Tunis
    Carthage
    Dougga
    Chemtou
    El Kef
    Sebeitla
    El Djem
    Sousse
    Kairouan
    Kerkouane

Once one of the Islamic world’s greatest and wealthiest cities (12th-16th century) Tunis is easily explored on foot and has 700 monuments including madrasas, palaces, grand residential quarters, crypts, mosques and fountains that testify to its remarkable past. Covering over 250 hectares, the UNESCO-listed portion of Tunis is a fine example of an Arabo-Muslim city with its 8th century central medina, 13th century suburbs and imposing military barracks. It is also possible to visit the world’s largest collection of Roman polychrome mosaics at Tunisia’s national museum and archaeological repository, The Bardo Museum.

At the height of their empire, the Romans had at least 200 cities in Tunisia as their first colony south of the Mediterranean. A legacy of this civilisation is over 26,000 listed sites – many in a remarkable state of preservation with more yet to be unearthed. People flock from all over the world to visit the city of Carthage, a great Phoenician trading empire during the 6th century given its strategic location at the mouth of the Gulf. During the lengthy Punic wars, Carthage occupied the territories that belonged to Rome, which then destroyed its rival in 146 AD.  The town was rebuilt by the Romans on the ruins of the ancient city and visitors can stroll around an extensive archaeological site that dominates a hillside and the surrounding plains. Highlights include the acropolis of Byrsa, the Punic ports, the Punic tophet, the necropolises, theatre, amphitheatre, circus, residential area, basilicas and the opulent Antonine baths.

The United Arab Emirates, one of the world's fastest growing tourist destinations, has all the right ingredients for an unforgettable holiday, sun, sand, sea, sports, unbeatable shopping, top-class hotels and restaurants, an intriguing traditional culture, and a safe and welcoming environment.