tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-60063680628160424592024-03-05T05:02:49.098-08:00The Stowaway KatKathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10865017975595468846noreply@blogger.comBlogger32125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6006368062816042459.post-57959902101946038842010-01-08T04:21:00.000-08:002010-01-08T05:10:46.086-08:00Skiing in South Africa and Morocco<span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(204, 0, 0); font-family: verdana;font-family:verdana;font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-style: italic;">Ever skied in South Africa? And Morocco? </span></span><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(204, 0, 0); font-family: verdana;font-family:Verdana,sans-serif;font-size:85%;" ><span lang="en-GB"><span style="font-size:100%;">Here is a guide to places you never thought of: South Africa, Japan, Argentina and Morocco.</span>
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<br /></span></span><meta equiv="CONTENT-TYPE" content="text/html; charset=utf-8"><title></title><meta name="GENERATOR" content="OpenOffice.org 3.0 (Win32)"><style type="text/css"> <!-- @page { margin: 2cm } P { margin-bottom: 0.21cm } --></style><p style="font-family: verdana;" class="P4"> </p><p style="font-family: verdana;" class="P4"> </p><p style="font-family: verdana;font-family:verdana;" class="Standard" ><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:85%;" class="T3" ><a href="http://www.holidaycheck.co.uk/state-travel+information_Argentina-lid_44.html">Argentina</a>.</span><span class="T5" style="font-size:85%;"> The Argentine Andes have several notable ski resorts, with snow from June to October. The landscape is b</span><span class="T6" style="font-size:85%;">reathtaking thanks to the altitude. </span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:85%;" class="T3" ><a href="http://www.holidaycheck.co.uk/city-Travel+pictures_Bariloche-ch_ub-oid_35808.html">Bariloche</a> </span><span class="T5" style="font-size:85%;">is considered o</span><span class="T6" style="font-size:85%;">ne of the best ski resorts in South </span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMU-j-w1PyKuqnucjJgRgy17GI55-M73np2GycQTLNNLER_CbeIXjLGEMrgKJxaYmPkUu_I_uj9nAcuFzAf2k1UU_u73qe6WtG2wZHW9lRQwMCpBrYtMkoTChkA51fPKDwDtZIXlOBqXyf/s1600-h/Bariloche_Argentina.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 129px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMU-j-w1PyKuqnucjJgRgy17GI55-M73np2GycQTLNNLER_CbeIXjLGEMrgKJxaYmPkUu_I_uj9nAcuFzAf2k1UU_u73qe6WtG2wZHW9lRQwMCpBrYtMkoTChkA51fPKDwDtZIXlOBqXyf/s200/Bariloche_Argentina.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5424354929906057650" border="0" /></a><span class="T6" style="font-size:85%;">America,</span><span class="T5" style="font-size:85%;"> but also Valle de Las Lenas, Ushuaia, San Martin de los Andes, La Angostura, Chubut, Copahue Park and Mendoza meet the highest expectations. The </span><span class="T3" style="font-size:85%;">Penitentes </span><span class="T5" style="font-size:85%;">ski resort, with its 2.580 metres above the sea level, offers 28 slopes spread over 300 hectares. It is near the Aconcagua, part of the Seven Summits (the highest mountains of each of the seven continents) and the highest peak outside Asia.
<br /></span></p><p style="font-family: verdana;font-family:verdana;" class="Standard" ><span class="T3" style="font-size:85%;"><a href="http://www.holidaycheck.co.uk/state-travel+information_South+Africa-lid_178.html"><span style="font-weight: bold;">South Africa</span></a>.</span><span class="T5" style="font-size:85%;"> Snow comes first in the Southern Hemisphere. You will be able to enjoy the white cover of </span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:85%;" class="T4" >Tiffindell ski resort</span><span class="T6" style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span>already by the end of May. It was first established to give South Africans the opportunity to ski near their homes. Today the resort has grown substantially, challenging even the most expert skiers. And w</span><span class="T5" style="font-size:85%;">hile the lack of snow is becoming a concern worldwide, Tiffindell has nothing to worry about: last year it saw over 7 metres of snow!</span></p><p style="font-family: verdana;font-family:verdana;" class="Standard" ><span class="T3" style="font-size:85%;"> </span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_IE3SUsHfvYUcVEUHXZ_AO2wLaR5ZJtiAv-oORdbHClGNKiQbR9969kZb78f1nXSQFGDvncs4KWhCa7URONVegqukWUDWiYnccCtllCaYolEijiZDwLgq6y4eysjepA6pWHWYnEYyu1mq/s1600-h/Oukaimeden+Morocco.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 164px; height: 157px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_IE3SUsHfvYUcVEUHXZ_AO2wLaR5ZJtiAv-oORdbHClGNKiQbR9969kZb78f1nXSQFGDvncs4KWhCa7URONVegqukWUDWiYnccCtllCaYolEijiZDwLgq6y4eysjepA6pWHWYnEYyu1mq/s200/Oukaimeden+Morocco.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5424355007262247106" border="0" /></a><span class="T3" style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Morocco</span>. </span><span class="T5" style="font-size:85%;">For those of you who consider Marrakech a getaway from the cold, looking for winter sun, here are some news: you can have both! The</span><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"> <a href="http://www.holidaycheck.co.uk/city-travel+information_Oukaimeden-oid_12494.html">Oukaimeden</a></span></span><span class="T5" style="font-size:85%;"><a href="http://www.holidaycheck.co.uk/city-travel+information_Oukaimeden-oid_12494.html"><span style="font-weight: bold;"> ski resort</span></a> is about 40 miles from Marrakech and ninety minutes from the beach. It is part of the </span><span class="T3" style="font-size:85%;">High Atlas Mountains </span><span class="T5" style="font-size:85%;">which</span><span class="T3" style="font-size:85%;"> </span><span class="T5" style="font-size:85%;">are usually covered with snow in January and February. It is cheap and uncrowded: the ski pass costs 10 Euros, and being largely unknown, you won't have to wait in line at the chairlift.</span></p><span style="font-family: verdana;font-size:85%;" ><span class="T4"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Japan</span>.</span><span class="T6"> Every day, fr</span><span class="T5">om December to April, trains leave from Tokyo to </span><span class="T3">Mount Fuji, </span><span class="T5">Japan's highest mountain and a symbol of the country. </span><span class="T3"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Hakuba </span>resort</span><span class="T5"> in Nagano is also very famous for being the host of the 1998 Winter Olympics. But many probably don't know that there are over 600 ski resorts in Japan, the largest number considering the size of the country. The northern island of </span><span class="T3"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Hokkaido</span> </span><span class="T5">is the perfect destination for those in search of spectacular deep powder and off-piste runs. Moreover, Japanese hotels in the ski resorts are modern and often located near natural hot springs.</span><span class="T6"> Exactly what you need after a long day on the slopes.</span></span>
<br /><a style="font-family: verdana;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR9VvqjLrL3zd0oQLb4orZpnWPO4HhaEwqmclE6nkJAZ5vbF1T9kpb3uNMRfL6ASX7bfRI9n04hdxJloH0vGSHUiKKcEXy6DcY6YxpPPNLX9nO83X1OrR7pL8dii5n7VWQOwGk8jLKOuWS/s1600-h/Mount+Fuji+Japan.jpg"></a><p style="font-family: verdana;" class="P5"> </p><span style="font-family: verdana;font-size:85%;" class="T8" ><span style="font-weight: bold;">Spain</span> </span><span style="font-family: verdana;font-size:85%;" class="T9" >is blessed by the sun, and at the same time, criss-crossed by mountain ranges in the north, in the middle, and to the surprise of some, also in the south. The </span><a style="font-family: verdana;" href="http://www.holidaycheck.co.uk/city-travel+information_Sierra+Nevada-oid_11850.html"><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:85%;" class="T8" >Sierra Nevada</span></a><span style="font-family: verdana;font-size:85%;" class="T9" > is one of Spain's most renowned ski destinations, with over 65 km of ski slopes. It is a major attraction due to its proximity to the sea and to the Alhambra, the best preserved palace of the Arab world.</span><span style="font-family: verdana;font-size:85%;" class="T10" > </span><span style="font-family: verdana;font-size:85%;" class="T6" >Famous for being the chosen resort of the Spanish royal family, </span><span style="font-weight: bold; font-family: verdana;font-size:85%;" class="T4" >Baqueira-Beret</span><span style="font-family: verdana;font-size:85%;" class="T6" ><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span>is also beautiful and sunny and has a good snow record. Some pistes have been recently modernised, and offer a wide range of uncrowded blues and reds for intermediate skiers.</span><p class="P4"> </p><meta equiv="CONTENT-TYPE" content="text/html; charset=utf-8"><title></title><meta name="GENERATOR" content="OpenOffice.org 3.0 (Win32)"><style type="text/css"> <!-- @page { margin: 2cm } P { margin-bottom: 0.21cm } A.western:link { so-language: zxx } A.ctl:link { so-language: zxx } </style>Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12641924299232747341noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6006368062816042459.post-37288756666228704852009-11-06T13:18:00.000-08:002009-11-06T13:25:27.782-08:00Berlin 2009: No More Bricks in the WallSince the fall of the Iron Curtain, no city in Europe has seen more development and change than Berlin. Divided for more than 40 years by the wall, this year the city celebrates the 20th anniversary of its fall. For those who've yet to see Berlin, now is the best time to pay a visit. The city is surprisingly affordable and full of magic, thanks to <a href="http://www.holidaycheck.co.uk/">HolidayCheck's tips</a>. What are you waiting for?<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />History and culture</span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0);">Escape tunnels </span>have become one of the most popular attractions for locals and international tourists alike. After World War II, hundreds of captives from East Germany took advantage of the soft soil beneath Berlin to tunnel their way under the wall. Some of the tunnels were like small tubes, barely big enough to crawl through, while others were tall enough to stand up in. It's estimated that about 300 people managed to escape through the tunnels.<br /><br />More history can be found at the Museum Haus (Wall museum) at <span style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0);">Checkpoint Charlie </span>(Friedrichstrasse 43–45), which displays a permanent exhibition on the history of the Berlin Wall and on the international fight for human rights. The exhibit includes many objects used by fugitives in their escape. This well-known crossing point in the Berlin Wall between East and West Germany became a symbol of the war and a gateway to freedom for East Germans.<br /><br />The <span style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0);">Old Stasi Headquarters </span>are also worth a visit, which chronicles how the secret police of the GFR conducted surveillance on its citizens. Most of the guides are former prisoners, arrested while the Communist Party was still in power, so you can be sure to receive insider information.<br /><br />The <span style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0);">East Side Gallery</span> is an international memorial for freedom. It is a 1.3 km long section of the Berlin Wall located along Mühlenstrasse, and consists of approximately 100 paintings by artists from all over the world. It was painted in 1990 on the eastern side of the wall. Even though it's not the original wall, small authentic remains are still preserved in a church on Bernauer Strasse.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />Eat and Drink</span><br /><br />One cannot truly experience Berlin without sampling some of its famous fast foods. Look for <span style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0);">Imbiss </span>(snack) kiosks throughout the city selling Bouletten or the ever-popular Currywurst. Berliners love this spicy combination of fried sausage covered in curry powder and ketchup.<br /><br />Be sure not to miss <span style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0);">Konnopke </span>, which has been serving its legendary bites since 1930. They can be found under the Eberswalder Strasse subway station arches, and are renowned for their tasty Currywurst. What’s so special about the sauce they serve? It’s a secret! Preparations begin at 6 a.m, so if you’re stumbling around Berlin in the early hours and looking for something special to satisfy your hunger, head to Konnopke.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Finally, rest!</span><br /><br />To experience a perfect mix of luxury and tradition, sleep at the <a style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0); font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.holidaycheck.co.uk/">Hotel Adli</a><span style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0); font-weight: bold;"> </span>. Our users simply love this 5-star hotel located right in the very heart of Berlin, by the Brandenburg Gate. It opened for the first time in 1907, hosting political leaders and celebrities for years. In 1945, a devastating fire almost entirely destroyed the magnificent building. After the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989, the people in the reunified city of Berlin refused to be without their legendary hotel, and few years later the New Adlon reopened.<br /><br />Different in every aspect is the<a href="http://www.holidaycheck.co.uk/"> <span style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0); font-weight: bold;">Ku’Damm101</span></a>. Located in the district of Charlottenburg on the western end of Kurfürstendamm (also known as Ku’Damm) this hotel features modern luxury, harmonic colours, high-quality materials and high-tech communication. Last but not least, breakfast is served seven stories high, above Berlin's rooftops.Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12641924299232747341noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6006368062816042459.post-61541093154667260522009-10-26T06:03:00.000-07:002009-10-26T06:44:31.325-07:005 Top Honeymoon Destinations<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSnmQEH1WCHObpIGV_pgkJOojm9GIS-xKE8S75TKbMEY33t8pG248kcVvrdrkIn_QUlfLD3BS8a6X5oNMuwKI52KGjyTiIrsqtcn6mS_joeGW1sc-qlrNkhWnzK42ylp8pafCRpz2VweaU/s1600-h/Just+married.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 133px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSnmQEH1WCHObpIGV_pgkJOojm9GIS-xKE8S75TKbMEY33t8pG248kcVvrdrkIn_QUlfLD3BS8a6X5oNMuwKI52KGjyTiIrsqtcn6mS_joeGW1sc-qlrNkhWnzK42ylp8pafCRpz2VweaU/s200/Just+married.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5396900528337176882" border="0" /></a>
<br /><span style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0); font-weight: bold;">When your big day is over, and you've spent the entire day showing off your smile to the cameras, you just can't wait to leave for that dream holiday. Here is a list of 5 top honeymoon destinations.</span>
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<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Seychelles, into the Wild</span>
<br />In the <a href="http://www.holidaycheck.com/">Seychelles</a> you'll find the largest natural park in the world, with over 115 isles to choose from. Lagoons, peaks, coral reefs, lush vegetation contribute to making this destination unique. Some islands boast ingranite digenous wildlife and at sea, the turtles and wide variety of tropical fish provide excellent snorkelling and diving opportunities. North Island offers real romance seekers the most secluded beach in Seychelles, Honeymoon Beach, with waters that change to different shades of blue depending on the time of day. Need we say more?
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<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Discovering <a href="http://www.holidaycheck.com/">Mauritius</a></span>
<br />This tropical island, located off the coast of the African continent in the southwest Indian Ocean, features an incredible ethnical variety: the Creole 'rainbow society' blends African, Asian and European cultures. An interesting and important aspect of this diversity can be also found in the delicious and multicultural Mauritian cuisine. Apart from the breathtaking white, sandy beaches, honeymooners looking to combine a South African <a href="http://www.holidaycheck.com/">safari</a> with a beach destination will find the perfect spot for diving and hiking among exotic plants and animals. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqQCut4BoonpCpS8-8-YUvNw5WLTPs-7-As5ouSdM08B5tM3oPvtKi7FE3tlQlTjik-JX3TsPC-C0OHMws2-zjIR5SIPy2fEEl74ffWJlvYbjZaIh86N_7L03hvtMcE03asDt547i8WWjM/s1600-h/Romantic+dinner.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqQCut4BoonpCpS8-8-YUvNw5WLTPs-7-As5ouSdM08B5tM3oPvtKi7FE3tlQlTjik-JX3TsPC-C0OHMws2-zjIR5SIPy2fEEl74ffWJlvYbjZaIh86N_7L03hvtMcE03asDt547i8WWjM/s200/Romantic+dinner.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5396902854746783602" border="0" /></a>
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<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="http://www.holidaycheck.com/">Maldives</a>, pure relaxation</span>
<br />Just take a peek out of your plane's window and you'll know you're landing in paradise. Below you a pattern of atolls stretching one after the other and massive, brilliant blue lagoons. After a long day lying on the beach, you may choose to pamper your body and senses in one of the many wellness centres. The Maldives are also known to be one of the best sites in the world for diving, so if there are any energies left, try a new and astounding experience: night snorkelling.
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<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRxlxKfs4bTgdx05nvrb3APbefgpHyGqJlIdNTPj_bwfzI0LfKsicYnnJ2e2xcxHcez4Ft7ACdpgaFc-T8p-tPk04z7O5mBNqW_Yz7-XYbA_w8aewFyfyHt6nTzFrMKCk1amb0Q9I0NVpo/s1600-h/Barbados.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRxlxKfs4bTgdx05nvrb3APbefgpHyGqJlIdNTPj_bwfzI0LfKsicYnnJ2e2xcxHcez4Ft7ACdpgaFc-T8p-tPk04z7O5mBNqW_Yz7-XYbA_w8aewFyfyHt6nTzFrMKCk1amb0Q9I0NVpo/s200/Barbados.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5396902957133399170" border="0" /></a>
<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Barbados, more than you expect</span>
<br />The Caribbean is famous for its beaches, but Barbados has much more to offer, it's one of the liveliest islands in the Caribbean. If you choose a<a href="http://www.holidaycheck.com/"> Barbados honeymoon</a> it is bound to be anything but dull. Those wishing to explore the island can visit the capital city of Bridgetown for shopping and sightseeing or take a tour to discover how the traditional Barbados rum is made and then have a cocktail by the beach while enjoying a stunning caribbean sunset.
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<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Fiji Islands, the real Garden of Eden</span>
<br />Exclusive, heavenly, intact, the<a href="http://www.holidaycheck.com/"> Fiji </a>Islands feature miles and miles of pure white beaches, azure lagoons and untouched reefs, as well as rainforests and mountains bursting with rare bird and animal species. But what makes this place of rare beauty so special and unique are the Fijian people and their wonderful culture. As soon as you will land, you will no longer be a visitor, but a welcomed friend. No wonder that it's one of the favourite wedding reception sites. <p style="margin-bottom: 0cm; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none;">
<br /></p> <meta equiv="CONTENT-TYPE" content="text/html; charset=utf-8"><title></title><meta name="GENERATOR" content="OpenOffice.org 3.0 (Win32)"><style type="text/css"> <!-- @page { margin: 2cm } P { margin-bottom: 0.21cm } A.western:link { so-language: zxx } A.ctl:link { so-language: zxx } --></style>Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12641924299232747341noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6006368062816042459.post-2924414804234433292009-10-15T03:04:00.000-07:002009-10-16T04:34:59.012-07:00THE ULTIMATE CRUISES<span style="font-weight: bold;">BEYOND BORDERS</span><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">If you're looking for the experience of a lifetime, this type of cruise is what you need. An <a style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0);" href="http://www.holidaycheck.co.uk/ships-ch_sb.html?"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 255); font-weight: bold;">Antarctic cruise</span></a> is entirely different from any other cruise. You won't be shopping or eating in luxury restaurants. Instead, you'll be taken ashore on an inflatable boat to walk among penguins, check out seal colon<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHH_m-b33-RhW7nj7G7fGyYMuiOAeKD6XpYaEVM7wb5MrjCrdG8U5jNsiaQGumO8kmjYXqvtiv9U26hBXQUGGVqUhZYR3kPd5q-Ifb0QOp7qg5zWHC7oyxiGR158dVaR6R5brtykO-UXgz/s1600-h/penguins.jpeg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 113px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHH_m-b33-RhW7nj7G7fGyYMuiOAeKD6XpYaEVM7wb5MrjCrdG8U5jNsiaQGumO8kmjYXqvtiv9U26hBXQUGGVqUhZYR3kPd5q-Ifb0QOp7qg5zWHC7oyxiGR158dVaR6R5brtykO-UXgz/s200/penguins.jpeg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5392769963329152226" border="0" /></a>ies or take a dip in the thermal waters of Deception Island, one of the only places in the world where vessels can sail directly into the centre of a restless volcano (The South Shetland - lying about 60 miles north of the Antarctic Peninsula). There are also stunning iceberg formations, vistas of glaciated mountains and whales to watch from the ship.<br />Antarctic visits are mainly concentrated at ice-free coastal zones over the Antarctic summer, the five-month period from November to March. Each month has its own attractions. November is early summer, and the birds are courting and mating. December and January feature hatching penguins and baby chicks, along with warmer temperatures and up to 20 hours of daylight each day. February is late summer, but the whale sightings are more frequent and the chicks are beginning are fledging. There is also less ice in the late summer, and the ships are not as booked up as earlier in the season. One important tip: try to book your cruise on a small ship, or you might have a tough time getting off for your excursions: the IAATO (International Association of Antarctic Tour Operators) allows no more than 100 persons ashore at a time.<br /></div><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">WILD NATURE</span><br /><br />For travellers in search of rugged natural beauty, breathtaking mountain peaks, fjords that stretch nearly forever, cosmopolitan cities, indigenous historic peoples and cultures, and vast tropical rainforests,<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span></span> <a href="http://www.holidaycheck.com/state-travel+information_Brazil-lid_59.html"><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(204, 0, 0);">South America</span></a> is a cruise revelation.<br />This huge continent covers thousands of miles and extends from the equatorial tropics to the sub-Antarctic. It is, of course, too big to sample on a single cruise. There are two primary routes - and not only do they rarely connect but they also are incredibly different. Around-the-horn cruises typically sail between Buenos Aires and Valparaiso, and feature lots of fjords, the wild beauty of Patagonia and Cape Horn - the southernmost point on the continent; and the Amazon cruises, getting in close contact with dense rainforsets, indigenous tribes and abundant wildlife.<br /><br />The beauty of a cruise - as opposed to a land tour - of South America is that the region is simply too vast to explore comfortably and many area are unaccessible by road. Ships go where very few hotels exist - and even folks who like a little edge in their travel may feel relieved to re-board their ship after a long adventurous day paddling canoes up a tiny Amazonian tributary or hiking out to a peninsula to observe penguins!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">A PLACE IN</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> HISTORY</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXFjvpEsICGZnq0GVC3RCfRD3ZOP5cx36f_8tJ88Az1On7ojSTr4-rJgDyy7rBx-kG4IAqj0FQ1RbZvGlkHHXN0A_gBMq8mwSD8LeRYNU0YPckJJo-GZqLMgpuaunV7Iu8aiBp0OJwjLtR/s1600-h/cruise_map.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 55px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXFjvpEsICGZnq0GVC3RCfRD3ZOP5cx36f_8tJ88Az1On7ojSTr4-rJgDyy7rBx-kG4IAqj0FQ1RbZvGlkHHXN0A_gBMq8mwSD8LeRYNU0YPckJJo-GZqLMgpuaunV7Iu8aiBp0OJwjLtR/s200/cruise_map.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5392783159573234306" border="0" /></a>100 years after the sinking of the Titanic, a twin cruise will mark the Titanic's original cruise.<br />The ship, carrying the exact number of passengers as 100 years earlier – 1,309 people -, will sail from Southampton on 8th April 2012 and will follow the RMS Titanic's original itinerary, passing by Cherbourg on the French coast before calling into the Irish port of Cobh. From here the ship will sail across the Atlantic, arriving at the<span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);"> </span><a style="color: rgb(0, 204, 204);" href="http://www.holidaycheck.co.uk/ships-ch_sb.html?"><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(204, 51, 204);">Titanic</span></a> site on April 14th/15th exactly 100 years on from this tragic voyage, where a memorial service will be held to pay tribute to the brave passengers and crew who perished on that fateful night. The voyage will then continue to Halifax, Nova Scotia, the final resting place of many who were on board, before sailing on to New York, the Titanic's ultimate planned destination.<br />The food served will match the sumptuous menus on the original voyage; the entertainment will include music and dancing in the Georgian style.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">FIRST-TIME CRUISES</span><br />Never been on a cruise before, curious but always been too suspicious to find out? Cruises don't have to mean endless days at sea. Mini cruises are becoming more and more popular with time-famished holidaymakers. They're also a great way to get a foretaste of what a cruise is all about, so perfect for first-time cruisers.<span style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0);"> </span><a style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(204, 0, 0);" href="http://www.holidaycheck.co.uk/ships-ch_sb.html?">Mini cruises</a> generally last four to five days and include all the usual on-board entertainment and sometimes much more, but you get more for your money than you would with a land-based holiday as you usually visit two to three destinations in one trip. To mention only two options, go can go classic, choosing a cruise which will take you to Malta, Italy (Naples, Rome and Florence) and then France (Cannes) before returning to Barcelona. Or, discover the Baltics under a completely different perspective, sailing through Estonia and Russia, and back to Stockholm.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOnYe3JIMUjVWGbwjW94MtbzFSyrSO1z3fXL1hPw-WH-Cla-eb3jfkFQqgKNWLkYw3NAqr4DPjG6gpQlNEg0bWkcZ0yPax9ZpePS-AkYfsV-oyfIKZuuc840uddAiCAYPhHLaxC9hAW5h9/s1600-h/cruise1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 119px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOnYe3JIMUjVWGbwjW94MtbzFSyrSO1z3fXL1hPw-WH-Cla-eb3jfkFQqgKNWLkYw3NAqr4DPjG6gpQlNEg0bWkcZ0yPax9ZpePS-AkYfsV-oyfIKZuuc840uddAiCAYPhHLaxC9hAW5h9/s200/cruise1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5392769599354231186" border="0" /></a><br /><br />You're probably not the only first-time cruiser, check <a href="http://www.holidaycheck.com/ships-ch_sb.html"><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(153, 0, 0);">travellers' reviews</span></a> and find out...<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">TIME-RICH TRAVELLERS</span><br />For those lucky travellers having a lot of time, a<span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(204, 0, 0);"> round-the-world cruise</span> is the ultimate in cruising. Usually lasting anywhere from four weeks to three months, these cruises take in just about every type of destination you can think of. A typical trip, starting in the UK might take you across the Atlantic to the Caribbean and USA, through the Panama Canal to a few ports in South America before cruising on to some South Pacific islands, including Hawaii, then on to the New Zealand and Australia. Asia comes next, followed by Africa or the Suez Canal and the Mediterranean. Of course, you can do this in the opposite direction or join a cruise for just a section.<br />A world cruise is a hassle-free way to experience plenty of different cultures without having to deal with airports and check-ins, lost luggage or arranging your own transport. Just have to think up a smart way of packing.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">GOURMET CRUISES</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO9gP1XCeE4jYt49rz3ethPkmm_kw1NkuqjoKamczadPHMdclcVCZtnFIk2L09swo2lFld_bBRAUTYaOmPSNaLiqhhfjX6iMUgL6QpXMnyxHTz4eivmqEzysn0QfGB-H-AnF-7TmKx6fcb/s1600-h/gourmet+pic.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 147px; height: 101px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO9gP1XCeE4jYt49rz3ethPkmm_kw1NkuqjoKamczadPHMdclcVCZtnFIk2L09swo2lFld_bBRAUTYaOmPSNaLiqhhfjX6iMUgL6QpXMnyxHTz4eivmqEzysn0QfGB-H-AnF-7TmKx6fcb/s200/gourmet+pic.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5392779295934928098" border="0" /></a>If you're fascinated by celebrity chefs and think you will never be so lucky to get a table at one of their posh food palaces, here's a tip: <span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(0, 204, 204);">celebrity chefs</span><span style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0);"> </span>are increasingly teaming up with cruise lines to create at-sea eateries. And while being exclusive, these onboard restaurants are a terrific way to enjoy the star chef experience at a relatively reasonable cost. Well, once you've paid for the cruise, of course.<br />In addition to providing cruise lines with a little extra glamour the presence of illustrious and critically acclaimed chefs does wonders for the calibre of the nosh on board. Another big plus is that you'll find them on the less expensive lines as well, not only on luxury ships.<br />The essential added value is that cover charge is very reasonable compared to the land-based experience and reservations aren't limited to VIPs – you'll just have to book in advance.<br /><br />If you had an interesting sea experience, you may share it in <a href="http://www.holidaycheck.com/index.php?ch=fo"><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(204, 0, 0);">this forum</span></a>!Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12641924299232747341noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6006368062816042459.post-56886741895504226942009-10-06T02:54:00.000-07:002009-10-06T06:18:16.941-07:00Honeymoon disasters!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfShSai-WIiLXzSPqp08tFh_mXOKYVMctHFsoC6Fgzh0Ca4r1IAQL5MkJl-cSxLBFVO-I-fPFg6OrZ8dS8HBlt4T4WZegLHOUURGCLreqckdqprdGBnlIRkp_z46vrMT3SwGGu-yMbiDfb/s1600-h/wedding+harring.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfShSai-WIiLXzSPqp08tFh_mXOKYVMctHFsoC6Fgzh0Ca4r1IAQL5MkJl-cSxLBFVO-I-fPFg6OrZ8dS8HBlt4T4WZegLHOUURGCLreqckdqprdGBnlIRkp_z46vrMT3SwGGu-yMbiDfb/s200/wedding+harring.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5389430046194767858" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">The ultimate example of a honeymoon gone haywire is probably the one in the film The Heartbreak Kid (1972), but the young will probably be more acquainted with the remake starring Ben Stiller. But in real life, such disaster honeymoons are not rare, as the following stories testify . . . </span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0); font-weight: bold;">Like a fish out of water</span><br />A young couple was staying at a hotel with a large swimming pool. They decided to go for a swim, and the bride tried on the new bikini she had recently purchased. As she swam and splashed around in the pool, she soon discovered that her bikini was too large, and it kept coming off. But being the only ones in the pool, she and her husband laughed and playfully retrieved the bikini from the pool's bottom.<br />That same evening they dressed for dinner and headed to their hotel's elegant restaurant, where they were seated next to a huge aquarium. Strangely, the aquarium was devoid of any aquatic life.<br />When the bride asked their waiter why the aquarium had no fish in it, he smiled broadly and said, "That's not an aquarium...that's the swimming pool!"<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0); font-weight: bold;">The Illegal Tree</span><br />A couple got married in December and set off for their honeymoon in Colorado. While driving through a snowstorm their car's exhaust fell off, forcing the groom to get out in the blizzard and attempt to fix it. They continued to drive through a pine forest and felt inspired to stop and cut down their first Christmas tree as newlyweds. They stopped and the groom went to cut a tree. He was walking back with the tree, when suddenly a buffalo ran out of the forest and started chasing him. He threw the tree on the car and started the car as fast as he could. The couple laughed about the incident until, about 100 feet down the road, they spotted a sign that read, "Do not cut the trees. Punishable by a $1,000 fine." They quickly got rid of the tree and continued, only to hear a screeching noise as the brakes failed. By the time their brakes were fixed, they'd given up on their hopes for a honeymoon, and headed back home to Iowa.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxKTBAvw36eq0j__g_5EXwW7IBNIejlT9Iq4EnlKiT_Qz2HqfAN_igact562Nvc0P2z267tD7y9h3rZaz1CUeUzu_0F7GXSBB7ubBnT8CYpyFK-Qb6QcSiNR1cPCfsA1Qxh0M1uXs4tDb6/s1600-h/FunnyPart-com-wedding_cake.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 165px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxKTBAvw36eq0j__g_5EXwW7IBNIejlT9Iq4EnlKiT_Qz2HqfAN_igact562Nvc0P2z267tD7y9h3rZaz1CUeUzu_0F7GXSBB7ubBnT8CYpyFK-Qb6QcSiNR1cPCfsA1Qxh0M1uXs4tDb6/s200/FunnyPart-com-wedding_cake.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5389430202413623410" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0); font-weight: bold;">This can't be a good sign</span><br />Another couple had to stay in an airport hotel the night before leaving for their honeymoon. The bride was half asleep when someone knocked on the door. Her husband went to answer the door and came back quickly to rouse her. She looked up and a cop was there, standing at the foot of their bed. He asked if they knew there was a dead man outside their window (their room was on the ground floor). The newlyweds looked out the window and indeed, there was a body on the ground! The whole night they saw coroners and crime scene photographers. They both thought „this can't be a good sign". They got no sleep that night and left the next morning with the poor guy still there on the ground. When they got got back they found out that he had had a heart attack... God rest his soul.<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0); font-weight: bold;">Water sick!</span><br />One couple stayed at an expensive resort near Cancun, Mexico that offered tons of activities and a honeymoon suite package. However, they both got horribly sick shortly after arriving. The bride woke up with such bad stomach aches that she had to remain in the foetal position the entire day. They felt terrible the whole trip and could hardly wait to get home and go to the doctor. While waiting for the bus to the airport they sat down at the bar. That's when the noticed the bar staff washing the glasses out with tap water and no soap - the same water they'd been told not to drink. The realized that every glass and dish they'd used was probably contaminated. When the couple got back to the States, they had to go on medication and were still sick for another week.<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0); font-weight: bold;">The importance of knowing foreign languages</span><br />One couple was honeymooning in Spain, enjoying a picnic lunch in a crowded park, when they were mugged by two men with a knife. They stole their money, camera, watches, and wedding rings. When the couple went to the police, her husband tried with his best Spanish to explain that they had been robbed. The groom later realised he'd mixed up his verbs and told the police they had robbed someone by mistake! Needless to say, the police weren't very sympathetic. To make things worse, their hotel in the next city refused to believe they were married because they had passports with different names and no wedding rings, so they were put in a room with twin beds. The final straw was when the Spanish airline placed the bride – who was scared of flying - and the groom in different rows.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0); font-weight: bold;">Try before you trust</span><br />A couple living in Arizona was getting married and the groom said he would sort out the honeymoon if the bride would have organized the wedding, promising to amaze her. She was truly amazed when he confessed that their honeymoon would have consisted in a cross-country trip in a van. They would have visited relatives in Florida, loaded some antique furniture at her parents house in New York, and finally visit New Orleans.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK5MYlwOcRSbtTudt9YFfw9Ge20BPJxSUmPrqckw0jMWpsmOWv9CSnnPCwdt78klcMh_WJBoVq-lxvKRvUYKnp7fzN82XhB1OL4qXfcHA8uKJG6DWEEfXX2uVfLsDxpBD2ZybHO7r316kW/s1600-h/disaster+bride.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 142px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK5MYlwOcRSbtTudt9YFfw9Ge20BPJxSUmPrqckw0jMWpsmOWv9CSnnPCwdt78klcMh_WJBoVq-lxvKRvUYKnp7fzN82XhB1OL4qXfcHA8uKJG6DWEEfXX2uVfLsDxpBD2ZybHO7r316kW/s200/disaster+bride.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5389429652723100386" border="0" /></a><br />After the reception the couple was ready for the adventure, which began with the groom and other friends h stuffing the bride and her cumbersome dress into the van, completely staining it (the dress) with grease.<br />On their way (it was July), the AC broke and they got a flat tyre, TWICE!<br />Once in Florida, they were obliged to sleep on separate couches, because the relatives wouldn't let them book a hotel. Next stop: New Orleans, where everything went wrong bacause the groom actually forgot to organise anything! Two days later they were on their way back to Arizona.<br />The couple broke up after 3 years!<br /></div><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">No one can forsee how a honeymoon will turn out. Even if you've organized it in every single detail, bad luck is always round the corner. The overall lesson for a honeymoon disaster is, stay positive and stick it out together. Many people say that they laugh about these things, looking back. </span> <span style="font-weight: bold;">Most important, avoid viewing your disastrous honeymoon as a bad omen for your marriage. Beginnings don't always show how it will turn out!<br /><br />Check out these perfect </span><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"></span></span><span><span style="text-decoration: underline;"></span></span><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"></span><a style="color: rgb(0, 0, 153);" href="http://www.holidaycheck.com/hcaward2008.php?lid=0">hotels</a></span><span style="font-weight: bold;">, or share your disaster <a style="color: rgb(0, 0, 153);" href="https://secure.holidaycheck.com/upload.php?ch=hb">holiday</a> with us!<br /></span>Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12641924299232747341noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6006368062816042459.post-76425698478273750572009-09-29T00:14:00.000-07:002009-10-08T03:13:06.997-07:00Six Great Wine Destinations<meta equiv="CONTENT-TYPE" content="text/html; charset=utf-8"><title></title><meta name="GENERATOR" content="OpenOffice.org 3.0 (Win32)"><style type="text/css"> <!-- @page { margin: 2cm } P { margin-bottom: 0.21cm } A:link { so-la</style><span style="font-family:Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><b>Fond of wine, and not only because you like getting tipsy? Then why not consider visiting one of the following major european cities for your next city break? </b></span></span><p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"> </p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family:Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><b>Here is a list of events which are well worth the trip!!! Enjoy!</b></span></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family:Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>EXPOVINA</b></span> – <i>Zürich (Switzerland) from 29.10.09 to 12.11.09</i></span></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSLEGxhDlOfZlV9sZ3J9a-q1VsQI6oDH5PyEOxYj9vQ3XzhqcghznODm4YQUp56F7xRJraF-KGu7HhPZhSasYDDowXehWk2cEYUgJD2-Vo6o2eJstg8j8pRQ0OB5V-5uDYCGJ7vVUuFhFH/s1600-h/expovina+foto2.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 152px; height: 154px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSLEGxhDlOfZlV9sZ3J9a-q1VsQI6oDH5PyEOxYj9vQ3XzhqcghznODm4YQUp56F7xRJraF-KGu7HhPZhSasYDDowXehWk2cEYUgJD2-Vo6o2eJstg8j8pRQ0OB5V-5uDYCGJ7vVUuFhFH/s200/expovina+foto2.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5386787578991658770" border="0" /></a></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family:Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size:85%;">This is Switzerland's largest wine show! On board 12 boats anchored near Bürkliplatz, visitors can choose between 4,000 wines from 22 countries and 5 continents. In addition, 6 speciality restaurants offer diners a diverse range of culinary delights. </span></span> </p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family:Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size:85%;">More information (only in German, unfortunately) on <a href="http://www.expovina.ch/">www.expovina.ch
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<br /></p><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 255);">Looking for the best<span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);"> </span><a style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);" href="http://www.holidaycheck.com/region-travel+information_Zurich+Region-rid_703.html">Zürich hotel deals</a>?</span>
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<br /></p> <p><span style="font-family:Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>VINITALY</b> </span>– <i>Verona (Italy) from 08.04.2010 to 12.04.2010</i>
<br /></span></span></p> <p><span style="font-family:Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size:85%;"> This five-day event is a true opportunity to find marvelous wines, and not just the biggest names. Producers, traders, restaurateurs and humble wine lovers - from Italy and beyond will be flocking to Verona for this event. The fair is divided into buildings, each representing an Italian region, and has a growing section of international wines too. Be sure to organize yourself: the map will surely help!</span></span></p><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwTAsi_-dY8asaL18RE7pDrowDKcJfBYF_TwLBIq5wP_-B3byNpAu2_RSYyI_gjsibaTD_5w-a9iRO58GB1Y3LcxEegVIufpQhfUsTBLhnavdxZMtKan1fpG2huKIq_2i_19kDwF3e6mHA/s1600-h/vinitaly+foto.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwTAsi_-dY8asaL18RE7pDrowDKcJfBYF_TwLBIq5wP_-B3byNpAu2_RSYyI_gjsibaTD_5w-a9iRO58GB1Y3LcxEegVIufpQhfUsTBLhnavdxZMtKan1fpG2huKIq_2i_19kDwF3e6mHA/s200/vinitaly+foto.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5386790294705380754" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNSawbUtAfPsx4wHXmNp4YSEOhKBZAqVuhMgj4hctvzkkSxO5eFwWyz3FdhTKS_LEcaLEgHTSQGGKt7LJ8FCBm7hKpjnfg_1ffVBOHrT_prIxWfS4vvD4OblYBvcC-M40T4zqbt12oz_1X/s1600-h/vinitaly+foto.jpg"></a><p><span style="font-family:Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size:85%;">
<br /></span></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><a href="http://www.vinitaly.com/"><span style="font-family:Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size:85%;">www.vinitaly.it
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<br /></b></span></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;font-family:verdana;"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 255);font-size:85%;" >Tired after a day wandering around stands and drinking? <a style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);" href="http://www.holidaycheck.com/city-travel+information_Verona-oid_5635.html">Verona hotel deals</a></span><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0); font-weight: bold;">
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<br /></span></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family:Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>SALON VINS ET TERROIRS</b></span> - <i>Paris (France) twice a year, from 06.11.09 to </i></span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicTAPwW8X6PlkV4fe0juQIcUeUFB_MFMrLoBcAFcVZDoodxQOUkBrYtZ2v_kzB1aRcIsR5PwAcRxzLogpWr3OY8-TlHzT49OplF0qRYyvqenTasCuPQgBzvzlqMuQl1VkbhfZz3M6vtzpE/s1600-h/salon+toulouse+foto.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 174px; height: 120px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicTAPwW8X6PlkV4fe0juQIcUeUFB_MFMrLoBcAFcVZDoodxQOUkBrYtZ2v_kzB1aRcIsR5PwAcRxzLogpWr3OY8-TlHzT49OplF0qRYyvqenTasCuPQgBzvzlqMuQl1VkbhfZz3M6vtzpE/s200/salon+toulouse+foto.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5386792117681271282" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family:Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><i>08.11.09 and in April</i></span></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family:Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size:85%;">Every year around 250 independent wine makers gather to showcase their w</span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size:85%;">ines to the public. Tickets cost €5.50 making the event both affordable and popular. </span></span> </p><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicTAPwW8X6PlkV4fe0juQIcUeUFB_MFMrLoBcAFcVZDoodxQOUkBrYtZ2v_kzB1aRcIsR5PwAcRxzLogpWr3OY8-TlHzT49OplF0qRYyvqenTasCuPQgBzvzlqMuQl1VkbhfZz3M6vtzpE/s1600-h/salon+toulouse+foto.jpg"></a><p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;font-family:verdana;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 255);">Best <a style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);" href="http://www.holidaycheck.com/region-travel+information_Paris+Area-rid_748.html">hotel offers in Paris</a>!</span>
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<br /></b></span></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family:Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>FENAVIN</b></span> C<i>iudad Real (Spain) in May (dates not available yet) </i></span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaTx_7MKEW-x3x00XyNRS6aLu8C_xt3IR1OnONc9Bfzq7BDHNQV4UR_Ba9jJf6RFbo0Sa574d8WR-UYxnex0jeS5mglhDQEEuiGNDwe4cw3pgDGsp36fGS1ifPtn2R8-BiSXDLXbT4Gjy3/s1600-h/fenavin+foto.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaTx_7MKEW-x3x00XyNRS6aLu8C_xt3IR1OnONc9Bfzq7BDHNQV4UR_Ba9jJf6RFbo0Sa574d8WR-UYxnex0jeS5mglhDQEEuiGNDwe4cw3pgDGsp36fGS1ifPtn2R8-BiSXDLXbT4Gjy3/s200/fenavin+foto.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5386793252753601394" border="0" /></a> </p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family:Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size:85%;">This is undoubtedly the largest wine fair in Spain, and a point if reference for learning more about the wide selection of Spanish wines. The most unique feature of Fenavin is the W</span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size:85%;">ine Gallery, </span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size:85%;">where representative wines from the different exhibitors are lined up to simplify the visitor's tasting. Each wine comes with an informative index card containing the name of winery,</span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size:85%;"> bra</span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size:85%;">nd name, estimated price in euro, viticultural notes, varietal components, awards and ratings and other pertinent info such as their location inside the fair, which makes it easier to select and buy them in a second moment.</span></span></p><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaTx_7MKEW-x3x00XyNRS6aLu8C_xt3IR1OnONc9Bfzq7BDHNQV4UR_Ba9jJf6RFbo0Sa574d8WR-UYxnex0jeS5mglhDQEEuiGNDwe4cw3pgDGsp36fGS1ifPtn2R8-BiSXDLXbT4Gjy3/s1600-h/fenavin+foto.jpg"></a><p style="margin-bottom: 0cm; color: rgb(51, 204, 255);font-family:verdana;"><span style="font-size:85%;">In need of a siesta? Look for <a style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);" href="http://www.holidaycheck.com/city-travel+information_Ciudad+Real-oid_2387.html"> Ciudad Real hotel deals</a>
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<br /></span></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family:Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>LONDON INTERNATIONAL WINE AND SPIRITS FAIR</b> </span>– L<i>ondon (UK) from 18.05.2010 to 20.05.2010</i></span></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><strong><span style="font-family:Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">An incredible opportunity to taste over 20,000 wi</span></span></span></strong><strong><span style="font-family:Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">nes, take part in seminars and tutored tastings, </span></span></span></strong><strong><span style="font-family:Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">and why not, buy some bottles!</span></span></span></strong><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAvy7Uuhxrnpw-P43m_BMiHuDQ6GolQKSouYU6xt7ZNQgyozQaswBSAiB9BxWMGnpkjSCPiyZQ4GXzqtuOvPZAZs5YHjqerSanbG4N_aKI5P7qUFAoYW7LqnKmW_BrJI8Gn7Wu_M_fb6J5/s1600-h/london+fair+foto.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 173px; height: 88px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAvy7Uuhxrnpw-P43m_BMiHuDQ6GolQKSouYU6xt7ZNQgyozQaswBSAiB9BxWMGnpkjSCPiyZQ4GXzqtuOvPZAZs5YHjqerSanbG4N_aKI5P7qUFAoYW7LqnKmW_BrJI8Gn7Wu_M_fb6J5/s200/london+fair+foto.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5386795587946957714" border="0" /></a></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><strong><span style="font-family:Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Be sure not to miss this event, because one of the world’s most important annual wine and spirits trade events will celebrate its 30th birthday in May 2010.</span></span></span></strong><span style="font-family:Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"> </span></span></span> </p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family:Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><a href="http://www.londonwinefair.com/">Visit </a><a href="http://www.londonwinefair.com/">www.londonwinefair.com </a></span></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family:Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 255);">After a long day of wine tasting, rest in the perfect <a style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);" href="http://www.holidaycheck.com/region-travel+information_London+Region-rid_727.html">London hotel</a>
<br /></span></span></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family:Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><b>VINO FAIR </b>- Ljubljana (Slovenia) from 08.02.2010 to 11.02.2010</span></span></p> <p><span style="font-family:Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: normal;">This</span> fair has a long tradition, the first of its kind being held in 1811. In 1955, the fair won the approval of the OIV (<i>Office International de la Vigne et du Vin</i> - the International Office for Grapevine and Wine), and the VINO fair has adhered strictly to its high standards ever since. This makes the annual Ljubljana Wine Fair one of only six European wine exhibitions certified by the OIV, with medals and diplomas awarded being officially recognized in all European countries. </span></span> </p> <p><span style="font-family:Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size:85%;">More info on <a href="http://www.ljubljanafair.com/ljubljana-exhibition-and-convention-centre/">http://www.ljubljanafair.com/ljubljana-exhibition-and-convention-centre/</a></span></span></p><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAZHoBAk4zzv_ZQjG3ClWCEUplebiGPJL9x_FXehdmPzOSJrquPODwa2pXKTPFS76qf9K7qDp1chBCfFDeixWi_RzMIUW2JJm1X5L8iy-pCTBHqZRH4Ky5xV-xnDMgwAdhmCaXDdaNdmwl/s1600-h/vino+ljubljana+foto.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 118px; height: 156px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAZHoBAk4zzv_ZQjG3ClWCEUplebiGPJL9x_FXehdmPzOSJrquPODwa2pXKTPFS76qf9K7qDp1chBCfFDeixWi_RzMIUW2JJm1X5L8iy-pCTBHqZRH4Ky5xV-xnDMgwAdhmCaXDdaNdmwl/s200/vino+ljubljana+foto.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5386797606709130994" border="0" /></a><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 255);">Check out the best <a style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);" href="http://www.holidaycheck.com/city-travel+information_Ljubljana+Laibach-oid_6585.html">hotel offers in Ljubjana</a>, user-tested and approved </span>
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<br />Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10865017975595468846noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6006368062816042459.post-977693119657385292009-09-25T03:59:00.000-07:002009-09-25T04:02:52.048-07:00"Ludicrous Lawsuits – when your holiday ends in the courts"<span class="textBold"></span> <div id="message357" style="padding: 3px 6px; display: block;">Courts often have the dubious pleasure of sorting out bizarre claims from holidaymakers. Complaints about there being too many natives on the beach, that the waves were too high or even tales of bed bugs which cause psychosis seem to find their way almost daily to the courts. HolidayCheck brings the hammer down on the strangest cases of all.<br /><br />A storm in a teacup?<br /><br />Certainly creative, a German gentleman took umbrage at the windy conditions confronting him while on holiday in the Seychelles. Clearly an avid swimmer, his disappointment in not being able to utilise the sea as he'd imagined meant he ended up taking his sorry tale to the courts, seeking damages for the waves being too high. His claim was overturned.<br /><br />File this under 'Possibly Slightly Overreacting'<br /><br />In 2003, the Library Hotel in New York got a nasty surprise when they found themselves being sued by the Online Computer Library Centre. The charge? Why, using the Dewey Decimal System as an innovative way to number the rooms in this book-themed hotel. As it turned out, the Dewey Decimal System is a trademarked brand! Luckily the opponents were able to settle their differences, allowing the hotel to continue using the system.<br /><br />...and yet, there were always plenty of sun loungers.<br /><br />In 2008, David Barnish sued Thomson for breach of contract after he discovered his hotel was overrun with Germans! The rather provocative headlines fuelled a battle of the stereotypes between the tabloids in England and the Bild newspaper in Germany over which country's citizens are really the worst tourists. Disappointingly for the sensationalists, the claims were actually quite reasonable and the judge ruled in favour of Barnish, stating that customers staying at a hotel featured in an English-language brochure and having paid for additional services should reasonably expect to be served in their own language.<br /><br />Once bitten...<br /><br />A New York man sued a hotel in New Haven over a case of serious bed bug bites! Although the stay lasted only one night and was, in fact, two years ago, Luis George claims that he still suffers severe emotional distress and insomnia from the pesky critters. Those must have been some seriously scary mites.<br /><br />A pooltry excuse<br /><br />As incredible as these cases may seem, none of them can really top the case of the Polish mother who claimed that her daughter became pregnant on holiday in Egypt – courtesy of the swimming pool! Despite the chlorine content of the water and the question of how sperm got there in the first place (do we really want to know?), the mother claims her daughter didn't have any contact with boys. We'll see how this one goes.</div>Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10865017975595468846noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6006368062816042459.post-64560123861823145112009-09-14T05:56:00.000-07:002009-09-29T01:47:03.465-07:00Top 5 London Markets<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ7C1qS40UVjcFgEVSPW-nQm652D_Ooofsw7UuzGOP2EfbvaoKfDP_FoRcgiv5AVgBim7ZuWPiRPFr932X8Y62-uSXUd-eLUXZzDFoqfSfNK-pY1MIPeqdRw6wvIYPNhpfrVDFmbg344lS/s1600-h/katblogpic.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 151px; height: 194px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ7C1qS40UVjcFgEVSPW-nQm652D_Ooofsw7UuzGOP2EfbvaoKfDP_FoRcgiv5AVgBim7ZuWPiRPFr932X8Y62-uSXUd-eLUXZzDFoqfSfNK-pY1MIPeqdRw6wvIYPNhpfrVDFmbg344lS/s200/katblogpic.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5381306559808226130" border="0" /></a><br />Loads of visitors to London head for the tourist drags of the West End like Oxford Street but London also has many markets that not only have a wide range of wares on offer but also take the visitor to parts of the city they may not otherwise get to see:<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0); font-weight: bold;">Borough Market</span> is held beneath railway arches that branch out from London Bridge Station. This setting has made the area a popular location for film shoots and Bridget Jones amongst other had scenes filmed here. Borough market is a wholesale farmer's market heldd every Saturday with a great range of fresh produce such as vegetables and British cheeses (Neal's Yard Dairy). After a hard morning slogging around the stalls why not make a beeline for the nearby George Inn (77 Borough High Street, SE1) for a relaxing drink.<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0); font-weight: bold;">Camden Market</span> is a major tourist attraction. Here you can buy clothes, antiques, music (including tonnes of bootlegged stuff), candles (lots of candles), healing crystals and other assorted New Age nick-nackery. Some people insist it used to be a lot better but even 15 years ago you still had to rummage through piles of tat before finding something worth buying. That's half the fun. Camden Town is also well known for its buzzing night life.<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0); font-weight: bold;">Columbia Road Flower Market</span> is a great place to floral pottering. Located close to Shoreditch tube this is a very nice way to spend a Sunday morning. The Market's on between, 9am and midday and there are plenty of lunch options in thelocal area.<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0); font-weight: bold;">Covent Garden. </span>Now that you've got into the market habit why not visit the former convents garden, just off the Strand. You may be none the wiser as to it's popularity since it's so expensive and quality is mixed. But the market area is fringed by some nice shops and the London Transport Museum Shop is good for London souvenirs.<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0); font-weight: bold;">Greenwich Market</span>. You can get there with the Docklands Light Railway but a boat ride is a great way to get to Greenwich (ferries depart regularly from Embankment), a really nice part of London. There is a lot to see here, apart from the Market which sells arts and crafts, books and clothes.Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10865017975595468846noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6006368062816042459.post-26326075896217571882009-09-07T06:57:00.000-07:002009-09-07T07:48:58.147-07:00The Whole Hog: 7 Magnificent Adventure Holidays<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicDf7DER3tOaIyfF0tPlPk3xrpywaHECZn7oiuDvoWUdu_eBl6Q_RZABm1hGkzWx229NBMv60dR5-QaAqcYnbmgPEyIhFy3vyECU-ADTlEotjF8XBeuPu1rs3lkp1G-rQM5jL6f9QUBFe_/s1600-h/markblogpic.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 149px; height: 195px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicDf7DER3tOaIyfF0tPlPk3xrpywaHECZn7oiuDvoWUdu_eBl6Q_RZABm1hGkzWx229NBMv60dR5-QaAqcYnbmgPEyIhFy3vyECU-ADTlEotjF8XBeuPu1rs3lkp1G-rQM5jL6f9QUBFe_/s200/markblogpic.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378726919435653954" border="0" /></a><p></p><br />If you're planning a holiday that's a bit different why not go the whole hog and opt for one of the following extreme adventure holidays? HolidayCheck is happy to share some ideas that'll have you rummaging for your passport.<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Icebreaker cruises</span> – These are not just a chance for shy people to get to know one another. A nautical adventure par excellence awaits those intrepid souls (fool)hardy enough to brave the northern seas. Icebreakers cruise the partially frozen waters of the Baltic, for example, and those on board are occasionally offered the chance to take an icy plunge in the ship's wake. HolidayCheck user Simone reckons this is, 'an absolutely unique experience'.<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Tornado chasing</span> – Every year the American Midwest is ravaged by marauding twisters that tear through houses as if they were made of matchsticks. Despite the very real misery that these storms cause, a niche travel industry has mushroomed around the phenomena. People track and chase the swirling pillars of destruction, getting as close as they can for that ultimate thrill.<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Race into space </span>– Steven Hawking is up for this and operators are already running commercial flights to the edge of space - 60 miles above the planet's surface! At the very edge of the Earth's atmosphere these select group of interstellar tourists can experience the kind of weightlessness that their wallets experienced after they paid for the ride.<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Surf a volcano</span> - What a paLAVA! Nicaragua's most recently formed volcano, Cerro Negro, offers those whose middle name is 'Danger' (and anyone else who's up for it) a chance to ski down ashen slopes. Talk about off-piste!<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Trail of danger</span> – The Chinese mountain Hua Shan is criss-crossed by many trails. The one that leads to the summit is carved into a virtually sheer rock-face. Thousands of brave walkers make the climb each year.<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Devils Swimming Pool –</span> The Victoria Falls offers a spine-tingling confluence of splendour and risk for the dare-devil visitor. The Zambezi plunges 400 foot down a rocky gorge, sending clouds of mist into the African sky. That's why the locals call the place Mosa-oa-Tunya ('the smoke that thunders'). Close to the edge of the falls there is actually a well known natural basin perfect for bathing. Check for crocodiles first.<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Wreck diving</span> – The pressure's on. Hardly surprising if you're 12,000 foot below the waves off Newfoundland looking at the wrecked hull of the Titanic. The macabre opportunity to survey the ruined hull of the White Star Line's luckless vessel is now being touted by specialist tour operators.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Read more <a href="http://www.holidaycheck.co.uk/"><span style="color: rgb(255, 204, 255);">www.holidaycheck.co.uk</span></a> - your first stop when planning your holiday! Read reviews from other travellers, look at holiday snaps and videos or chat to others at the forum.</span>Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10865017975595468846noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6006368062816042459.post-71896898193473483612009-09-02T01:40:00.000-07:002009-09-04T02:26:08.839-07:00Themed Hotels: An overnight stay the adventurous way!<meta equiv="CONTENT-TYPE" content="text/html; charset=utf-8"><title></title><meta name="GENERATOR" content="OpenOffice.org 3.0 (Win32)"><style type="text/css"> <!-- @page { margin: 2cm } P { margin-bottom: 0.21cm } --> </style> <p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;" lang="en-US"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ0Q4dBWakNFp_bVke0-ohl4dfufOgj_Z2c0gnlvMuXqE3iRHN5waVGJ5Xt3feW_qt9gEFRTEgxqc3vgOmqGx39PjHvzT_uCloPCgemsNNJNP4UnWt_keP7aasb66D_HYhh14lpBb5HyTH/s1600-h/markblogpic.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 149px; height: 195px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ0Q4dBWakNFp_bVke0-ohl4dfufOgj_Z2c0gnlvMuXqE3iRHN5waVGJ5Xt3feW_qt9gEFRTEgxqc3vgOmqGx39PjHvzT_uCloPCgemsNNJNP4UnWt_keP7aasb66D_HYhh14lpBb5HyTH/s200/markblogpic.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376787244747599778" border="0" /></a></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;" lang="en-US">Who wouldn't want to book a hotel bed in a hot air balloon or a bouncy castle? Even if those options don't exist yet, anyone itching to try out something more adventurous than a common or garden hostelry is well accommodated in one of a new breed of themed hotels. HolidayCheck, one of Europe's major hotel review platforms, is happy to present eight distinguished establishments:
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<br /><span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0); font-weight: bold;">Crane Hotel (Holland)</span>
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<br />Hafenkran Hotel in Harlingen, Holland hoists the holiday expectations of its guests to surprising heights. The driver's cabin in this decommissioned crane is operational, allowing the guest to determine precisely his or her own ideal sea-view. HolidayCheck user Chris enthuses, 'Perfect. Aesthetically pleasing design with fine attention to detail. You can set everything yourself (lighting
<br />and air conditioning etc) via a console by the bed. It's really special.'
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<br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Cave Hotel (Tunisia)</span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;" lang="en-US">
<br />Discover your inner Neanderthal at Hotel Marhala! This antidote to high-rise ostentation is located in caves below ground. 'Those looking for an authentic adventure (in the positive sense) are well catered for here,' reports HolidayCheck user Frank-Michael
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<br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Jail Hotel (Switzerland)</span>
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<br />Experience adventures, thrills and excitement all at once when you sleep 'behind bars' at the converted prison hotel <a style="color: rgb(255, 204, 255);" href="http://www.holidaycheck.co.uk/hotel-travel+information_Gefaengnishotel+Loewengraben-hid_64617.html">'Löwengraben'</a> in Luzern. The place has been a hotel since 1998. Stripy jim-jams compliment the jailbird look. 'If you're looking for a reasonably priced room in central Luzern, coupled with a novel hotel experience, this is a good place to try', according to HolidayCheck user Mark.
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<br /></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;" lang="en-US"><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Plane Hotel (Sweden)</span>
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<br />Everyone knows you can't get a decent night's sleep on an aeroplane. Things are different at the Jumbo Hotel in Stockholm. This old Boeing 747-200 is roomy and comfortable and guests can even indulge their flights of fancy in the cockpit suite.
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<br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Tree House Hotel (Germany)</span>
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<br />Pining for your childhood roots? Book in at the <a style="color: rgb(255, 204, 255);" href="http://www.holidaycheck.co.uk/hotel-reviews_Baumhaushotel+Solling-ch_hb-hid_183716.html">tree house Hotel Solling</a> and see how the hotel sector is branching out to cover every possible novelty niche. This place is not only a great choice for kids, it's also a treat for budding adventurers of all ages. Nobody leaves here without a smile on their face!
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<br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Igloo Hotel (Switzerland)</span>
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<br />Live like an Eskimo in Trübsee Igloo Village in Engelberg. Guests can even build their own igloos. HolidayChecker user Daniela enthuses: 'Everything here, from the chairs to the beds, is made of ice - right down to the tiniest details! It's brilliantly done.'
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<br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Underwater Hotel (USA)</span>
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<br />In the spirit of Jules Verne's '20,000 Leagues Under the Sea', the Jules Undersea Lodge is built on the seabed 40 feet below the surface. Big windows give guests the chance to appreciate the submarine panorama to the full. There is no direct access to the world above so you have to check in and out with the assistance of a diving suit. Similar hotels are planned for Fiji and Dubai.</p>
<br /><span style="font-style: italic;">If these are a bit too exciting for you, never mind. Just head on over to</span><span style="color: rgb(255, 204, 255); font-style: italic;"> </span><a style="color: rgb(255, 204, 255); font-style: italic;" href="http://www.holidaycheck.co.uk/">www.holidaycheck.co.uk</a> <span style="font-style: italic;">to look at and book thousands of hotels worldwide.</span>
<br />Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10865017975595468846noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6006368062816042459.post-54476235921240759872009-08-27T01:36:00.001-07:002009-08-27T05:03:11.751-07:0010 Disgusting Foods from around the World<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8Q_uVAw5e96OWZTWLfLizXZ1kQdaSuUr_UUEV9MNwJ80X13U59BWNQFxIbSjccP0lR1a66NdkFbqUUS4XDawMmyWbFPCluBvmBkOL6qGVSW3_VEMRCGU9hGz3_q7iIL5f2OzmHGU3Cy0y/s1600-h/katblogpic.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 151px; height: 194px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8Q_uVAw5e96OWZTWLfLizXZ1kQdaSuUr_UUEV9MNwJ80X13U59BWNQFxIbSjccP0lR1a66NdkFbqUUS4XDawMmyWbFPCluBvmBkOL6qGVSW3_VEMRCGU9hGz3_q7iIL5f2OzmHGU3Cy0y/s200/katblogpic.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5374560029072433842" border="0" /></a>
<br /><meta equiv="CONTENT-TYPE" content="text/html; charset=utf-8"><title></title><meta name="GENERATOR" content="OpenOffice.org 3.0 (Win32)"><style type="text/css"> <!-- @page { margin: 2cm } P { margin-bottom: 0.21cm } --></style>What? You thought my disgusting everyday foods post was nasty? But that was just a warmup for the main showing! Here's a delectable selection foods people wouldn't blink twice at when served in their native country, but probably make most of us want to return our lunch.
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<br /><span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Drunken Shrimp (China)</span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb_36fWDg41pHl3HUnnIoiAJrU3ep2lSl_qu8FmzGyfXEMNx1RyufQLObkEJzgACtZ_RE7oiMLpb-DhEniMKfW7LX_d3Uvkr4LYwEZhME3tyhyfd-IJEtI4RlC7GdRbuvO5UMbRCHsW3m-/s1600-h/DrunkShrimpBowl.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 148px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb_36fWDg41pHl3HUnnIoiAJrU3ep2lSl_qu8FmzGyfXEMNx1RyufQLObkEJzgACtZ_RE7oiMLpb-DhEniMKfW7LX_d3Uvkr4LYwEZhME3tyhyfd-IJEtI4RlC7GdRbuvO5UMbRCHsW3m-/s200/DrunkShrimpBowl.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5374561003505817362" border="0" /></a> <p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">A bowl of live shrimp swimming in strong alcohol (baijiu), which is supposed to stun them and thus make consumption slightly easier!</p><p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0cm; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Chicken Cartilage (Japan)</p><p style="margin-bottom: 0cm; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">
<br /></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">Otherwise known as Nankotsu, this dish is common in Japanese drinking establishments. Apparently it's not bad – just rather hard and chewy!<strong></strong></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><strong><span style="font-weight: normal;">
<br /></span></strong></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0cm; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);"><strong><span style="font-weight: normal;">Pig Testicles (Mexico)</span></strong></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0cm; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);"><strong><span style="font-weight: normal;">
<br /></span></strong></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">Also known as Prairie Oysters or Criadillas, this falls under the category of 'Surprisingly good if you have no idea what it is.'</p><p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Scrambled eggs with pigs blood (Hungary)</span>
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<br />A speciality in Hungary, where the first pig slaughter of the season is a big deal. After chasing the unfortunate swine down, someone slits its throat and collects the blood in a pan. Added to this appetitising dish is...plain old scrambled eggs! Apparently has a brain-like appearance, but the taste is not bad at all!</p><p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0cm; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Ants eggs (Belize, South America)</p><p style="margin-bottom: 0cm; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">
<br /></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">Otherwise known as 'Ghetto Caviar', this is quite popular in Belize. To get yourself a taste, all you have to do is find yourself a suitable ants nest, dig it up and then dig into the eggs. I'm told the taste is akin to citrusy alcohol. From personal experien<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivDhZ8_YjFKr7qynnX3EFz8VPfMytIMAdC_7Tv7RJMtGH2Fn904-IFXsUBzJceswZgsGsmPm-fuNwPZgzDlxJqOhG1TMKJM6eRkQVXMM2gr4Tn7xQJjK6llQDvWmWy2ta0UE3eDJNuKpm-/s1600-h/6a00d834515b2069e200e54f2d60a88833-800wi.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 129px; height: 172px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivDhZ8_YjFKr7qynnX3EFz8VPfMytIMAdC_7Tv7RJMtGH2Fn904-IFXsUBzJceswZgsGsmPm-fuNwPZgzDlxJqOhG1TMKJM6eRkQVXMM2gr4Tn7xQJjK6llQDvWmWy2ta0UE3eDJNuKpm-/s200/6a00d834515b2069e200e54f2d60a88833-800wi.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5374561399697402866" border="0" /></a>ce involving an improperly sealed bottle of Campari, I can certainly believe in the citrus flavour.</p><p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0cm; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Baby Mouse Wine (China)</p><p style="margin-bottom: 0cm; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">
<br /></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">Unfortunately, it really is just what it sounds like – a bottle of rice wine with the added bonus of several baby mice floating around in it. Deeelicious.</p><p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0cm; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Spider on a stick (Cambodia)</p><p style="margin-bottom: 0cm; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">
<br /></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">Certainly one of the world's more unusual fast foods (and one I would not get within 100 metres of), but popular in many areas of Cambodia. Apparently this practice gained popularity during the Khymer Rouge days when food was scarce...and the taste just grew on the locals! In some places, hundreds of these tasty 8-legged treats are cooked and eaten every day!</p><p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
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<br /><span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Cynar (Italy)
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<br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5ehSbyA7YzO_OlOqcGVuHtXhQJSSJIq60Ju-A6ZuVp5bqobk1J1KxYJqtxF2PCVkiUTdaykABMjOVFYg7Wh_jJdGJKO_ZfqS3jnNSPzc4h9BBWPzNa-Sy3JQ5bAxACx6FMYI6wjinwYBw/s1600-h/VR+1207+045_2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 81px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5ehSbyA7YzO_OlOqcGVuHtXhQJSSJIq60Ju-A6ZuVp5bqobk1J1KxYJqtxF2PCVkiUTdaykABMjOVFYg7Wh_jJdGJKO_ZfqS3jnNSPzc4h9BBWPzNa-Sy3JQ5bAxACx6FMYI6wjinwYBw/s200/VR+1207+045_2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5374563587973564642" border="0" /></a> <p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">Probably good if you're feeling stopped up, but not much else I would imagine. This Italian digestiv is made from artichokes! While Wikipedia informs me it can be drunk with cola, lemonade, tonic water or soda water, I'm more convinced from the personal reviews, which indicate that the taste is more akin to overcooked, burning artichokes.</p><p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0cm; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Beer Jelly (USA)</p><p style="margin-bottom: 0cm; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">
<br /></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">Popular at student parties, this rather unappetising (possibly) dessert item is basically beer, gelatine and maybe a few cheese pops for that <span style="font-style: italic;">je ne sais quoi</span>! (Literally...)</p><p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0cm; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Baalut (Phillipines)</p><p style="margin-bottom: 0cm; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">
<br /></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">Finishing up with a really delicious one: take a fertilised duck egg, bury it in the ground, leave for a few weeks, then dig up and enjoy!</p><p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">Apologies, by the way, for including fewer pictures with this entry, but I really didn't have the heart to look most of them up and you guys will probably thank me for it anyway!</p><p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Looking to book a holiday, find out more about a hotel, maybe get some travel ideas or just chat to fellow travellers? Well click your way over to <a style="color: rgb(255, 204, 255);" href="http://www.holidaycheck.co.uk/">holidaycheck.co.uk</a> for all that and much more. Remember, anyone who submits 1 hotel review with four holiday snaps before the end of September has a chance to win a great little <a style="color: rgb(255, 204, 255);" href="https://secure.holidaycheck.co.uk/upload.php?ch=hb">Travel Translator</a>. Handy for all those lost in translation moment, or simply just showing off to your friends!</span>
<br /></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"></p>Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10865017975595468846noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6006368062816042459.post-65230120788247140542009-08-25T07:15:00.000-07:002009-09-29T01:48:35.647-07:00The Top Gay Holiday Destinations of 2009<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2nlg5MqUYr3e2yar_mW-uV-gUb8huqngeIdPzARjdr1MS1TsS7T-GRJKSa-wtn1hbD-Rbo7aSeXG7mOK7Y4sLEyU4P3KxE79DHKNTr0O37tZkD0d5IFjbs28pYFvyKTcvXyiwAcpkA26D/s1600-h/markblogpic.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 149px; height: 195px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2nlg5MqUYr3e2yar_mW-uV-gUb8huqngeIdPzARjdr1MS1TsS7T-GRJKSa-wtn1hbD-Rbo7aSeXG7mOK7Y4sLEyU4P3KxE79DHKNTr0O37tZkD0d5IFjbs28pYFvyKTcvXyiwAcpkA26D/s200/markblogpic.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5373905677101031410" border="0" /></a><br />What are the hottest destinations for gay travellers in 2009? HolidayCheck's users have been pretty much everywhere and have given a lot of feedback on the best gay-friendly places to check out. That's how we can be sure of offering 5 unbeatable tips.<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Gran Canaria</span> – The Gran Canarias gay scene is concentrated in the southern part of the island, especially around Maspalomas and Playa del Ingles. The nightlife is frenetic and can be found around the Yumbo Center in Playa del Ingles. There are loads of bustling bars here, around 40 of which cater to a predominantly gay crowd. The Yumbo Centre is a typical shopping centre during the day, but at night it's probably the biggest gay scene in all Europe. The Playa del Ingles nudist beach is a popular place for gays and lesbians to hang out.<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Mykonos</span> - This style-conscious gay paradise is also popular with artists and the fashionista set. This combination gives the island a special quality that's just hard to beat. The island is very small and 90% of the action is concentrated in Mykonos town. Gay beaches to explore are the Super Paradise Beach and the Elias Beach.<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Barcelona</span> - Barcelona is a cosmopolitan and open city. It's also a favoured gay destination. There's plenty on offer culturally too and although there is no specifically gay area there are a lot of gay bars in the 'Eixamle' district as well as gay shops, discos and pubs too.<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Maledives</span> - Even if some are generally intolerant of the scene,the island is nevertheless a popular place to visit amongst the community. Some hotels in Ari Atoll (Hotel Diva Maledives for example) and Baa Atoll (Hotel Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu for example) are more than happy to welcome gay holidaymakers.<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Ibiza </span>- There's scarce a resort in Europe that caters for gay holidaymakers to the extent that Ibiza does . The locals are a tolerant and easy going bunch and are happy to welcome a broad mix of visitors to the island. The gay scene is concentrated in Eivissa old town. As far as the beach is concerned, the southern end of Platja d’es Cavallet is a popular meeting point.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">For more fun facts, reports and travel information, head on over to <a style="color: rgb(255, 204, 255);" href="http://www.holidaycheck.co.uk/">HolidayCheck</a> and check out our recent <a style="color: rgb(255, 204, 255);" href="http://www.holidaycheck.co.uk/">press releases</a>...before moving on to our <a style="color: rgb(255, 204, 255);" href="http://www.holidaycheck.co.uk/">hotel reviews</a>, photos and videos, naturally.</span>Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10865017975595468846noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6006368062816042459.post-70095490148254984492009-08-21T01:45:00.000-07:002009-08-21T02:00:34.959-07:0010 Disgusting Everyday Foods
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<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR6nnVyexYOEck_xinLHW8bNky0HBGAQ2JHMjszDr4rBacPIoBWItFFX5KoqFqoIppywZrSRgq0zZrZGqU5P7KT9QMNkG9wXfLA-q7ohlUoYImqJ3ENzGKhhiEWQAxkDy82yCzb8Y60otM/s1600-h/katblogpic.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 151px; height: 194px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR6nnVyexYOEck_xinLHW8bNky0HBGAQ2JHMjszDr4rBacPIoBWItFFX5KoqFqoIppywZrSRgq0zZrZGqU5P7KT9QMNkG9wXfLA-q7ohlUoYImqJ3ENzGKhhiEWQAxkDy82yCzb8Y60otM/s200/katblogpic.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5372336421321047714" border="0" /></a>
<br /><meta equiv="CONTENT-TYPE" content="text/html; charset=utf-8"><title></title><meta name="GENERATOR" content="OpenOffice.org 3.0 (Win32)"><style type="text/css"> <!-- @page { margin: 2cm } P { margin-bottom: 0.21cm } A:link { so-language: zxx } --> </style> <p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">What makes it ok to eat one thing, but not another? Who knows? But considering how squeamish most Westerners are in comparison to other nationalities, it's amazing how this list of rather nasty foods get so regularly onto our plates and into our shopping baskets!</p><p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5xq-DNidInvXbHWLPv-bOypocwI-8Vguc2MKl5bTjtKTT17SEMXSYWJK-oWpVRHNqJ0aAzDbHqWQimkehVZJ064sfCSTHjOQm0v6oOvGRgvpKRfX27BOIz9P_ptDrymv4gpBAuM1VxJer/s1600-h/stilton.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 154px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5xq-DNidInvXbHWLPv-bOypocwI-8Vguc2MKl5bTjtKTT17SEMXSYWJK-oWpVRHNqJ0aAzDbHqWQimkehVZJ064sfCSTHjOQm0v6oOvGRgvpKRfX27BOIz9P_ptDrymv4gpBAuM1VxJer/s200/stilton.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5372338579327813474" border="0" /></a></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">Stilton – Everybody loves cheese, but less so cheese with mould injected into it. I'm not sure who came up with the idea of injecting <span style="font-style: italic;">penicillium roqueforti</span> into Stilton before leaving it to mature, but it's sure proved a popular, if disgusting, idea.</p><p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">Haggis – Want to gross out your friends? Take the heart, stomach and lungs of a sheep, </p><p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">mix in some other lovely ingredients and boil the whole thing in the stomach of the aforeme</p><p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">ntioned sheep for a few hours. Then tuck in!</p><p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />Spam – Heavily processed pork shoulder, or something more suspicious? Neither seem terribly nice, but over 6 billion cans of SPAM have been sold to date! While the original name comes from 'SPiced hAM', many other ideas have been ventured: 'Something Posing As Meat' being a favourite.</p><p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjllHLXjjGWtYZ5R36RcdXwM34GlFhiFJZ9M2x50WfOpPVGtwgDv5wECcfsGFxzJgHE2qH5lx86BpHVf_lBv8hpbeC7NeEPhA457JnxZQFQNEOa4z4OLi1X2IZihl0MNf-ZC5ZWSsIPUMXz/s1600-h/29025-large.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 146px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjllHLXjjGWtYZ5R36RcdXwM34GlFhiFJZ9M2x50WfOpPVGtwgDv5wECcfsGFxzJgHE2qH5lx86BpHVf_lBv8hpbeC7NeEPhA457JnxZQFQNEOa4z4OLi1X2IZihl0MNf-ZC5ZWSsIPUMXz/s200/29025-large.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5372338290755780386" border="0" /></a></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"> </p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"> </p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">Bovril – How appetising does the following sound: a thick, salty meat paste that can be made into a hot drink, a base for soups of simply spread on bread as a delicious topping! What? You'd rather have jam? Well, suit yourselves...</p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">Black Pudding – A staple of the traditional English breakfast, black pudding owes its colour to...wait for it...blood!</p><p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">Oysters – Whoever managed to turn a raw crustaceon into not only a gourmet treat but an alleged aphrodesiac should get a medal.</p><p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">Gelatine – Made from collagen in animals' skin and bones – deeeelicious! Particularly disgu</p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">sting considering we use it mostly commonly in desserts. Although I've heard chefs have had a good go at making bacon and egg ice cream, so I suppose a bit of cow extract in your pudding isn't so crazy.</p><p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">Liver and onions – Although some swear by it, the idea of eating liver – as one person puts it 'a giant blood clot' – turns my stomach. Normally served with something along the lines of mash and fried onions, steel yourself before diving in...</p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">Deep fried Mars bar – For many people, this is the epitome of delicious rather than disgusting. A Mars bar (for those who don't know, this is a milk chocolate bar with a caramel and fluffy marshmallow-like filling) is coated in batter, then deep fried for ten minutes.</p><p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-AdRjJEIjXbb_YkmfvSKs75VDXO0MmV8Gu6QeYcnGscNQiTpLkTpPFk82x3OeNynwiYf37I1xy8XnJ7MUMMz9E1arg9xLEN7TPwC9mqpasDjNaTdV2jNdjq808J7reuj1xS45z2IOOXt2/s1600-h/caviar_dish1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 114px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-AdRjJEIjXbb_YkmfvSKs75VDXO0MmV8Gu6QeYcnGscNQiTpLkTpPFk82x3OeNynwiYf37I1xy8XnJ7MUMMz9E1arg9xLEN7TPwC9mqpasDjNaTdV2jNdjq808J7reuj1xS45z2IOOXt2/s200/caviar_dish1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5372339266496010146" border="0" /></a></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">Caviar – Another one scoring high on the entrepreneurial scale. I can't imagine who first came up with the idea of eating fish eggs, but whoever did it (perhaps on a bet) hit the jackpot! I suppose there's something to be said for taking risks afterall.</p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">Tune in next week, when I'll be dishing up some of the most bizarre and unappetising dishes worldwide! I just thought I'd start on this note to remind us we eat some very weird things right in our own back yard (figuratively, not literally).</p><p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">Have a nice weekend everyone!
<br /></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"></p> Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10865017975595468846noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6006368062816042459.post-46158350589018122592009-08-19T02:40:00.000-07:002009-09-29T01:47:50.316-07:00Five Great Coffee Houses in Amsterdam<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc96CztZgoveC3_wu48NcVM8DY-Amw4ubmkXFclV52Tl4FS48pH5YYJYVyZ4xMSl1wnIjyFU70-GobZtsxsVd6v8rQJsZ_ABZRzSTVvi0lBkKgzdpWV6xY53tuMZPSmpTTyobERLUR8SYt/s1600-h/katblogpic.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 151px; height: 194px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc96CztZgoveC3_wu48NcVM8DY-Amw4ubmkXFclV52Tl4FS48pH5YYJYVyZ4xMSl1wnIjyFU70-GobZtsxsVd6v8rQJsZ_ABZRzSTVvi0lBkKgzdpWV6xY53tuMZPSmpTTyobERLUR8SYt/s200/katblogpic.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5371609158236353106" border="0" /></a>
<br />A wonderful city with a great vibe, my memories of Amsterdam are some of my best. While I admit the city has a well-developed seedy side, I felt it was a friendly place and absolutely loved the system of canals. Part of our stay including watching the annual Gay Pride parade. I think my brother and father were less convinced, but I thought it was fantastic and the atmosphere was incredibly laid-back.
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<br />In that spirit, I'd like to share the fruits of my research - five of the very best coffee houses in Amsterdam. As some of you may know, coffee houses recently had to choose between serving marijuana and alcohol. The majority of them settled on marijuana, so don't hold high hopes of being able to get alcoholic drinks at these places BUT if you do fancy a bite of a space cake, a legal toke or just a great cup of joe and some fantastic people-watching, these are the places to go...
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<br /><meta equiv="CONTENT-TYPE" content="text/html; charset=utf-8"><title></title><meta name="GENERATOR" content="OpenOffice.org 3.0 (Win32)"><style type="text/css"> <!-- @page { margin: 2cm } P { margin-bottom: 0.21cm } --> </style> <p style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0); font-weight: bold;">Abraxis<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHqRikkpQS9gaLc7ZLak3vgTEQX-kEO1r8LZdXqdMLEvej6e6A7ZYdLYAF6-3XlX7NksAIF7hohUuG_G1hbVxUF9FdebqYkfFokd6fwnlxHtQHLxiRPHhGA5QuBPmfLxnuT0KMjyCgH710/s1600-h/abraxis.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 179px; height: 179px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHqRikkpQS9gaLc7ZLak3vgTEQX-kEO1r8LZdXqdMLEvej6e6A7ZYdLYAF6-3XlX7NksAIF7hohUuG_G1hbVxUF9FdebqYkfFokd6fwnlxHtQHLxiRPHhGA5QuBPmfLxnuT0KMjyCgH710/s200/abraxis.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5371946276646534290" border="0" /></a></p> <p>Hidden in a tiny alley near the Dam Square, this coffee house has three gorgeous wood-pannelled floors to hang out in. If you head up to the top small, you will find it decorated with live marijuana plants, which can be a thrill to newcomers. The ambiance is lovely and the view from the top is wonderful. If you're not afraid of heights, skip up to the top floor and look down through the glass partition all the way down to the ground floor!</p> <p style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0); font-weight: bold;">Barney' Breakfast Bar</p> <p>This is one is great for early risers, since it opens earlier than most coffee houses and also serves (as one would assume from the name) fantastic breakfasts. Also, since they're up near the train station, Barney's is a good place to go when you first hit town and nothing else has opened yet. </p> <p style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0); font-weight: bold;">La Canna</p> <p>A large, impressive coffee house boasting three floors, a billiards room, restaurant and even rooms to rent! The service is particularly good and this is a great place for people watching: just find yourself a seat by the second-floor windows for a great view out over the busy streets. </p> <p style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0); font-weight: bold;">Popeye's</p> <p>Famous not for its food nor its ambiance, but rather for its owner, Popeye's is something different! Popeye himself is the owner – a jovial, chatty guy who loves nothing better than chatting with his customers, hanging around and greeting and welcoming everybody. Great if you're feeling a little disillusioned!</p> <p style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0); font-weight: bold;">Rokerij<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrCe8GB_HiaztHD35oXhD0LqlzBEFqPe-8ohb198FirhHhHegjjNeWQVh4-yX1t4r4COMkINwGIP10tlm7XFVkXhb7MSvnNQ7f_bHuRUMmNfZb1_lEUzVozs_DsmywMSjHWdmThSDCyOT1/s1600-h/rokerij.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrCe8GB_HiaztHD35oXhD0LqlzBEFqPe-8ohb198FirhHhHegjjNeWQVh4-yX1t4r4COMkINwGIP10tlm7XFVkXhb7MSvnNQ7f_bHuRUMmNfZb1_lEUzVozs_DsmywMSjHWdmThSDCyOT1/s200/rokerij.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5371946612078575314" border="0" /></a></p> <p>Part of a small chain with four locations in the city. The original location is probably the best, boasting great service, wonderful food and drinks and a classy, indian-themed atmosphere. Just pay attention when looking for it, or you might miss it!</p><p>
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<br /></p> <span style="font-style: italic;">For more tips, tricks, <a style="color: rgb(255, 204, 255);" href="http://www.holidaycheck.co.uk/">hotels reviews</a><span style="color: rgb(255, 204, 255);">,</span> pictures and videos, take a look at<a href="http://www.holidaycheck.co.uk/"> <span style="color: rgb(255, 204, 255);">holidayche</span></a></span><span style="font-style: italic;"><a href="http://www.holidaycheck.co.uk/"><span style="color: rgb(255, 204, 255);">ck.co.uk</span></a> - never had any nasty surprises awaiting you at your destination again!</span>
<br />Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10865017975595468846noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6006368062816042459.post-51928564395474792132009-08-14T00:34:00.000-07:002009-08-14T01:37:43.570-07:005 Fantastic Summer Drinks<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNl53GoU8ab26IZEF9LQ8QXldX9PXe2Ej3tN4dYxihjIstDIU33L-l75c9hKoE8fxXVoTkfp2_oISb8xnVs-k4jNtMVVWxgR9KyYb3q-tDFsOAMznmjuQv2EN37XFB419FuAJnuMPqCHtj/s1600-h/katblogpic.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 151px; height: 194px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNl53GoU8ab26IZEF9LQ8QXldX9PXe2Ej3tN4dYxihjIstDIU33L-l75c9hKoE8fxXVoTkfp2_oISb8xnVs-k4jNtMVVWxgR9KyYb3q-tDFsOAMznmjuQv2EN37XFB419FuAJnuMPqCHtj/s200/katblogpic.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5369724932227907298" border="0" /></a><br />It's a lovely, sunny summer's day here in Konstanz and - perhaps more importantly - it's Friday! This post is for everybody who's had a tough week and just wants to kick back, relax, enjoy the weather and have a lovely, cool drink (with a bit of a kick, naturally).<br /><br />1) Spiked Lemonade<br /><br />Homemade is always a firm favourite: it's delicious, incredibly easy to make and such a creature comfort.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9zvH71kO4uOosI-ciIwluLlCsTsuNWkOX3hN0DgpzKG9jrw_FcUStKKNqdWLplmiu8Sxe3_flDFDW2e-WXgKywskWB_WEUM2Inoyc7fPhe-lTzZeBY4tuxPDnC2DHGFh_RyEvjlxY2e2D/s1600-h/drinks-6-l.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9zvH71kO4uOosI-ciIwluLlCsTsuNWkOX3hN0DgpzKG9jrw_FcUStKKNqdWLplmiu8Sxe3_flDFDW2e-WXgKywskWB_WEUM2Inoyc7fPhe-lTzZeBY4tuxPDnC2DHGFh_RyEvjlxY2e2D/s200/drinks-6-l.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5369726619335357122" border="0" /></a><br />Recipe:<br /><br />5 lemons<br />1 lime<br />1/2 cup honey<br />fizzy water<br />ice<br /><br />1) dissolve honey in a cup of warm water<br />2) squeeze your citrus fruit and add them to the honey-water mix<br />3) add a generous glug of your favourite alcohol - ones that work well are citrus-flavoured vodkas or rum<br />4) top up with club soda and ice and garnish with a sprig of mint for a fizzy, tangy summer treat<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiksOTUkh0-UGcjOpqyVZOye-Ufv4u56zlVhS9M0rUqttO-xjyNKvyZl-3dWq6Fkg0ArHMDuAYl1bAhGYnNV6T0PLO4Y7kxf6xCrnp8L6sGqmZkIwaFeuDbcU8AukEdCY8i2jto_A9x1apv/s1600-h/daiquiri-300x300.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiksOTUkh0-UGcjOpqyVZOye-Ufv4u56zlVhS9M0rUqttO-xjyNKvyZl-3dWq6Fkg0ArHMDuAYl1bAhGYnNV6T0PLO4Y7kxf6xCrnp8L6sGqmZkIwaFeuDbcU8AukEdCY8i2jto_A9x1apv/s200/daiquiri-300x300.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5369726191005038754" border="0" /></a><br />2) Traditional daiquiri<br /><br />The daiquiri is always a firm favourite. While the flavoured kinds are all kinds of lovely, sometimes it's nice to just go with the traditional version (which is also a lot easier to make, I must say)<br /><br />2oz light rum<br />3/4 oz lime juice<br />1tsp sugar<br />lime slices<br /><br />1) This is easy: combine all your ingredients in a shaker with ice and mix well! Pour into a cocktail glass and garnish with lime slices<br /><br />3) Zubrowka cocktail<br /><br />This is another ridiculously simple one. Zubrowka is traditional Polish vodka flavoured with bison grass, which mixed wonderfully with chilled apple juice. So try this:<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8Z1s8qhkoKSZ8NYrilVSGEtDDOjey5YHAcitKFwNx5uSlEonjUMXWYwPZaW_A8Ut71jaFYkKAkgFSj7r7Sc9ymNhXlVwjS5077jIDraKkSEqhq5Ouoe-a58zUZA9WngWLioKnWIMNFvII/s1600-h/zubrowka.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8Z1s8qhkoKSZ8NYrilVSGEtDDOjey5YHAcitKFwNx5uSlEonjUMXWYwPZaW_A8Ut71jaFYkKAkgFSj7r7Sc9ymNhXlVwjS5077jIDraKkSEqhq5Ouoe-a58zUZA9WngWLioKnWIMNFvII/s200/zubrowka.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5369726775818891074" border="0" /></a><br />2oz Zubrowka vodka<br />2oz chilled apple juice<br />apple slices<br />ginger essence<br />cinnamon stick<br /><br />1) combine apple juice with just one or two drops of ginger essence to taste<br />2) add vodka<br />3) pour mixture into chilled glass over ice<br />4) garnish with apply slices and a cinnamon stick<br /><br />4) Cuban Mojito<br /><br />If a mojito doesn't scream summer to you, I don't know what planet you're on! These are absolutely delicious enjoyed on a hot summer day, a cool evening...just about any time, in fact. Even if you drink them in the rain, it still feels summery. Luckily, they're also pretty easy to <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSIEqVgN3VDhBnbDKg_aW1hCbGRe42bh2TnGuxn5itIqyt9eHdYWxkzmAbosY_KRCoUbZjLrb51m08CPf1FZTIhFKmqMHig_fxd6Lif_JPIXn-0wWcmWuir6uBKu1ZpeEvzmzwTyHJKNWb/s1600-h/mojito.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 94px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSIEqVgN3VDhBnbDKg_aW1hCbGRe42bh2TnGuxn5itIqyt9eHdYWxkzmAbosY_KRCoUbZjLrb51m08CPf1FZTIhFKmqMHig_fxd6Lif_JPIXn-0wWcmWuir6uBKu1ZpeEvzmzwTyHJKNWb/s200/mojito.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5369725925575286514" border="0" /></a>make.<br /><br />1tsp powdered sugar<br />1-2 limes, chopped<br />handful fresh mint leaves<br />2oz white rum<br />2 oz club soda<br /><br />1) tip the chopped limes, mint leaves and powdered sugar into a glass and pound them with any suitable kitchen implement until the limes are properly juiced and the mint leaves have been well crushed.<br />2) add white rum, mix slightly<br />3) top up with club soda, as desired (some people just prefer the mint, lime juice, sugar and rum)<br />4) garnish with a sprig of mint and enjoy!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPwdMNCnRpruiGQNNVRZOYnzQiKw_5YIHTGr-UwrnFOU-q8Hx0pknsqHI1QHEPEjAR6ndgnk3mvW_7l7-Yl9lltzTb4Oq3nCiaKWSPY4ftzaqtNRra6XIylU7GktB6whUbj_eEh5dsqvlz/s1600-h/pimms.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPwdMNCnRpruiGQNNVRZOYnzQiKw_5YIHTGr-UwrnFOU-q8Hx0pknsqHI1QHEPEjAR6ndgnk3mvW_7l7-Yl9lltzTb4Oq3nCiaKWSPY4ftzaqtNRra6XIylU7GktB6whUbj_eEh5dsqvlz/s200/pimms.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5369725344635579362" border="0" /></a><br />5) Pimms<br /><br />Come on, I am English...! But if you haven't tried Pimms yet, please do. It's fantastic, fruity but not overpowering and very unusual.<br /><br />5 cl Pimms<br />lemonade, 7up, soda water - whichever you prefer<br />cucumber chunks or slices<br />orange and lemon slices<br />chopped strawberries<br />mint leaves<br /><br />1) pour your Pimms and lemonade/desired mixed into a glass filled with ice and stir<br />2) add a great big mixture of cucumber, lemon, orange and stawberries and mix again<br />3) add a few mint leaves and garnish with a sprig of mint<br />4) enjoy!<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Not summery enough? Well, maybe only a holiday will do! Read our</span><a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://www.holidaycheck.co.uk"> <span style="color: rgb(255, 204, 255);">hotel reviews</span></a><span style="font-style: italic;">, look at holiday pictures and participate in the forum at </span><a style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 204, 255);" href="http://www.holidaycheck.co.uk">www.holidaycheck.co.uk</a>Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10865017975595468846noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6006368062816042459.post-41532693104998611772009-08-10T01:28:00.000-07:002009-08-18T23:58:27.155-07:00How to Keep Fit on Holidays<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj1lRgjlTruPwtLPhcjh_Xo-UIFtQHo-cIayzjD0vN7i4UmSvDtOkBwg3YBizoej9CpxRob-NWrvMjhM4zQf-W_gP9kIbssqwlj3Q7PUAfKj1q0KjTAfhyE5dfJChxymoUtaSoj1mBp9X_/s1600-h/katblogpic.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 151px; height: 194px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj1lRgjlTruPwtLPhcjh_Xo-UIFtQHo-cIayzjD0vN7i4UmSvDtOkBwg3YBizoej9CpxRob-NWrvMjhM4zQf-W_gP9kIbssqwlj3Q7PUAfKj1q0KjTAfhyE5dfJChxymoUtaSoj1mBp9X_/s200/katblogpic.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5368249375426976722" border="0" /></a><br />Yes, yes, I know: holidays are supposed to be about kicking back, relaxing, enjoying some fabulous food and drinks and NOT about working out! Still, I don't know about you, but it can be a bit depressing to get back from a two-week vacation and find that your favourite jeans don't fit anymore.<br /><br />Luckily it's actually fairly easy to keep fit on holiday. Here are my top tips:<br /><br />1) The world is your gym<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil-n6EtCwsWP7hHeOKkdVv9v47AkaHz5oTfmosGRzjOhnN89ZuZfxWqWn0ad43Osu8bvCBFQHm0KK1xJ4k3xcLvB93YsD9YghSz5eTICRtm6IPD7ApopkFdkJMYQ5rIDJB7B31OKqN4V54/s1600-h/n61311401_35624825_3155.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil-n6EtCwsWP7hHeOKkdVv9v47AkaHz5oTfmosGRzjOhnN89ZuZfxWqWn0ad43Osu8bvCBFQHm0KK1xJ4k3xcLvB93YsD9YghSz5eTICRtm6IPD7ApopkFdkJMYQ5rIDJB7B31OKqN4V54/s200/n61311401_35624825_3155.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5368305806106096402" border="0" /></a><br />By which I mean...there are hundreds of free (or affordable) opportunities to exercise more than your mouth on holiday. The easiest is, of course, walking. I'm a big fan of this myself and actually think many cities, in particular, are better seen on foot. It doesn't even seem like exercise when you're wending your way through secret little passageways and charming side-streets.<br /><br />2) On yer bike, love!<br /><br />Some cities also offer a rent-a-bike scheme, such as the Velub in Paris. This is great for sunny days - not so much when it's rainy, freezing cold or windy! It goes without saying that if you're off to a more rural area, bikes are one of the best ways to get around and experience the local area.<br /><br />3) Swim for it<br /><br />If these don't appeal, maybe swimming is more your thing? Beach holidays are of course perfect for this, but if you're staying in a decent hotel, make sure to make the most of the pool. Lovely and relaxing. You could also engage in a little beach volleyball or frizbee...<br /><br />4) None of these appeal?<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLxeN8tiPdMUhKrr-1d7Y5bwSFxfAASaQA5UxuhSkspR8LKf1F3jJKGAUMOgcfbaEBMYj2HaS4PkGXR2rkZCDSFgfPStvi9A212xV0w-wuu4c_HAhCBjJ_Wgqeo0eSK7NHCbUSOS63Il_A/s1600-h/lady_running_beach.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 126px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLxeN8tiPdMUhKrr-1d7Y5bwSFxfAASaQA5UxuhSkspR8LKf1F3jJKGAUMOgcfbaEBMYj2HaS4PkGXR2rkZCDSFgfPStvi9A212xV0w-wuu4c_HAhCBjJ_Wgqeo0eSK7NHCbUSOS63Il_A/s200/lady_running_beach.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5368305579191096706" border="0" /></a><br />Finally, if these just don't cut it, you could always head off for a run. The best times to go this are usually early morning or in the evening, when it's not too hot and the streets aren't too crowded.<br /><br />Make sure you know your way around, of course, or at very least know the language! Carry enough cash with you to hail a cab in case you get lost.<br /><br />5) Get out your dancing shoes<br /><br />Many countries have local customs and dances, so why not head off into the night to see what you can see? I'm not a party animal but it's great once in a while to go to a bar or club and boogie a bit. Particularly good if you're with friends or your partner, and even if you've been blessed with two left feet, you'll still get a good laugh out of it!<br /><br />6) Eat locally<br /><br />Avoid junk food. Why on Earth would you go on holiday only to eat in McDonalds?<br /><br />Most countries have their own local specialities. You should definitely try these, but be wary if traditional cuisine is heavy in fat or sugar. Make sure to eat plenty of fresh fruit and veg<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzltV48pcNXEvdWgqW7xk0VIDzfYOj5UJxinDvOm5zZU0cq0-Je0_fEYrreHYRBZkB9ZbX7olDHpq3m6s1gnrSz26Zpv9I8XHO5Nky43aarTdIb5ocwIHAiWIBEfR83PIikrG_5lBteGHi/s1600-h/whitefishricepilaf-main_Full.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 126px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzltV48pcNXEvdWgqW7xk0VIDzfYOj5UJxinDvOm5zZU0cq0-Je0_fEYrreHYRBZkB9ZbX7olDHpq3m6s1gnrSz26Zpv9I8XHO5Nky43aarTdIb5ocwIHAiWIBEfR83PIikrG_5lBteGHi/s200/whitefishricepilaf-main_Full.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5368305689021661266" border="0" /></a>etables, maybe even buy from a market.<br /><br />If you're holidaying near a lake or the sea, also try the local seafood. Not only should it be delicious and affordable, but it's generally very healthy.<br /><br />---<br /><br />...but this said, make sure you don't spend your trip counting calories and working out in the hotel gym: not fun at all!<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Once you're doing with your workout, head on over to HolidayCheck. Have a skip through our <a style="color: rgb(255, 204, 255);" href="http://www.holidaycheck.co.uk/">holiday reviews</a>, <a style="color: rgb(255, 204, 255);" href="http://www.holidaycheck.co.uk/">travel pictures </a>and <a style="color: rgb(255, 204, 255);" href="http://www.holidaycheck.co.uk/">travel vidoes</a> at <a style="color: rgb(255, 204, 255);" href="http://www.holidaycheck.co.uk/">http://www.holidaycheck.co.uk</a></span>Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10865017975595468846noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6006368062816042459.post-43271394504482592452009-08-05T01:13:00.000-07:002009-08-05T01:17:11.862-07:00Sex on the Beach - Hangover in Jail?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMV_Bp21KjNJJ7MqTwk4D5zX537_5Jnock_yJt6FoQO-Jj3mU8VSPKxaBLFMaVk5a-_0Xex_Sz4XyrJ56UaAo2aVFjfjvXrsj4VE2C7IdPJR3aYN0fO5AcbwcRRnyh5lc6oV3_2U-HqrGL/s1600-h/markblog.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 154px; height: 194px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMV_Bp21KjNJJ7MqTwk4D5zX537_5Jnock_yJt6FoQO-Jj3mU8VSPKxaBLFMaVk5a-_0Xex_Sz4XyrJ56UaAo2aVFjfjvXrsj4VE2C7IdPJR3aYN0fO5AcbwcRRnyh5lc6oV3_2U-HqrGL/s200/markblog.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366390805719880642" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">A year ago this month a British couple were arrested in Dubai and charged with indecent behaviour after a local police officer caught them having sex on a beach. They received a three month prison sentence before boarding their flight home, red faces all round. Under the circumstances they were pretty lucky to escape a flogging. However the episode serves as a useful reminder that there may well be unforeseen legal consequences associated with getting frisky al fresco.</span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Romania</span> punishes such transgressions with distinct severity whereas <span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Swedish</span> attitudes are notably more relaxed.In European countries the penalties are generally milder but even in <span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Germany</span>, for example, a prison sentence is possible, although the matter is much more a question of judicial discretion.<br /><br />In popular holiday destinations like<span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);"> Croatia </span>and <span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Turkey</span> they dispense fines for perceived public indecency. In <span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Spain</span>, fines can amount to a hefty 75,000 Euros. ¡Madre mía!<br /><br />In<span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);"> Greece</span>,<span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);"> Italy</span> and <span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Eygpt</span> you can end up in jail for if you're caught in a public clinch. And the sentence would not be a token spell in the slammer. There's a real possibility you could spend years behind bars.<br /><br />Islamic countries are the most unyielding in their moral opposition to open displays of affection. In <span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Dubai</span> merely kissing and hugging in public can be punished with a custodial sentence.<br /><br />Topless sunbathing, or otherwise loafing about in the buff, is frowned upon in <span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Kenya</span>, <span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Malaysia</span>, <span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Thailand</span> and <span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">South Africa</span> and definitely to be avoided. The best thing is to approach the customs and laws of the country you find yourself in with an attitude of respect.<br /><br />However, if your preferred menu must include free-range nooky then <span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Bulgaria</span>, <span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Norway</span>, <span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Canada</span> and <span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Jamaica</span> should number among your choice holiday destinations. In these places you'll get off with a caution!Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10865017975595468846noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6006368062816042459.post-71422114321298057382009-08-04T02:39:00.000-07:002009-08-11T02:22:04.182-07:00How to Save Money to Travel<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjytbaSxNX0hRy4j4uzk9euzW6xJq2PR-sUUu9p8GCePTp2fvhPv8sOZ0qDDJPfby0HSMJt_MChNN1KDkLgQH8ZP_gzkR8_4JAWfFaa7LkkWRXCyzAM0t0leZMmRyrmxzjfR2RUagKCq-A_/s1600-h/katblogpic.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 151px; height: 194px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjytbaSxNX0hRy4j4uzk9euzW6xJq2PR-sUUu9p8GCePTp2fvhPv8sOZ0qDDJPfby0HSMJt_MChNN1KDkLgQH8ZP_gzkR8_4JAWfFaa7LkkWRXCyzAM0t0leZMmRyrmxzjfR2RUagKCq-A_/s200/katblogpic.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366068339888208130" border="0" /></a><br />Ahh yes, the eternal conundrum. We all want to travel, but travel costs money, now doesn't it? Whether travel must necessarily be a huge drain on the ol' bank account is a theme for another blog post, but I'm certainly ready with a few ideas for how to save up a few extra quid (or bucks, if you will).<br /><br />I have to say, I don't think you're doing the student life right if you don't figure out a few money-saving shortcuts during your first years of uni. I've known people who have spent overdrafts (and second and third extensions) solely on alcohol - true story - but on the other hand, those who have come out miraculously able to pay off debts and skip off to Morocco after exams. Most of them, I must admit, had a bit of help from the Bank of Mum and Dad, but still: world of difference.<br /><br />Still, I actually think you've more chance to save if you're not a student. Students live generally a very bare-bones kind of lifestyle and there's not always a lot to cut down on, whereas once you're out in the real world, your spending habits can go a bit wild. In any case, philosophy aside, here are my tips:<br /><br />1) Those things at the b<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ-02x5XeE6w7bydkkb0DnQZFDe6pI3QaMVYpK0Ihee4V7rmZ1Ev1lVK1y_D7wo7V9MYI2YGDHVrQdU4tw3XnVmpCjiHBZeAR43hT-v_nvY7RRQ3kUJsk1_A2EvPzy4cHsmRAfJBr_opaN/s1600-h/173448632_1fa0b5c10c.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ-02x5XeE6w7bydkkb0DnQZFDe6pI3QaMVYpK0Ihee4V7rmZ1Ev1lVK1y_D7wo7V9MYI2YGDHVrQdU4tw3XnVmpCjiHBZeAR43hT-v_nvY7RRQ3kUJsk1_A2EvPzy4cHsmRAfJBr_opaN/s200/173448632_1fa0b5c10c.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366070574554675986" border="0" /></a>ottom of your legs? They're called feet.<br /><br />Rediscover them. Ditching the car can save you an absolute fortune. Clearly, most people are not in a position to go without wheels totally, but it's worth asking yourself whether you really need it for that nip to the cornership or taking your kids to school. Walking's in my blood. I used to walk home 5km home from school each day and then in Vienna 7km to work and back. I loved it. It's certainly a lot less frustrating than sitting in a traffic jam or cursing when the traffic lights turn red. If you're in the position to try a less auto-filled life, give it a go.<br /><br />2) Brown bag it.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpNkWRJD_TR6GA_EvtUCFcxqmcEQ-GK-WD1gyE3JPu7EwYmGkM5iZc3jfQNK08kMY-t6Fhmu0hnAGCrHMlPtTTbTnEs9bwpm6BHemZib88OQQqfSRhK2bzi9EtDnXbG7B-n0xYe2U_ZR35/s1600-h/aladdin-lunchbox.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 199px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpNkWRJD_TR6GA_EvtUCFcxqmcEQ-GK-WD1gyE3JPu7EwYmGkM5iZc3jfQNK08kMY-t6Fhmu0hnAGCrHMlPtTTbTnEs9bwpm6BHemZib88OQQqfSRhK2bzi9EtDnXbG7B-n0xYe2U_ZR35/s200/aladdin-lunchbox.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366068541804553762" border="0" /></a><br />Do you remember your school lunchbox fondly? I do! So revive it. Pack yourself a little picnic for lunch each day and you could save several pounds each meal. If you're more of a hot meals for lunch kind of person, this requires more organisation, but it's relatively easy to whip up a huge batch of chilli and take it to work a few days in a row or freeze it for later use. Sandwiches made at home tend not only to be healthier if you skimp on the mayo, but much cheaper than the store-bought variety. Additionally, with all these new cooking skills, you can impress your date or partner without forking out for restaurant food!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioR2EuKoW8Q3bSwhxtB2muvCfNq0Iea0HCvxsGNcJmZM312JBcJXC4fMBpLTR36k9ZQeGaZKtdRJ6zLWRwhttygW5a_KOvpNfJOugsnjOMv2J9cRfBhdZ9YkHfkRg1ya0oStRQIUSnwEw2/s1600-h/Union_Black_Fashion_Story_Nhuc_by_LoveTheVoid.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 134px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioR2EuKoW8Q3bSwhxtB2muvCfNq0Iea0HCvxsGNcJmZM312JBcJXC4fMBpLTR36k9ZQeGaZKtdRJ6zLWRwhttygW5a_KOvpNfJOugsnjOMv2J9cRfBhdZ9YkHfkRg1ya0oStRQIUSnwEw2/s200/Union_Black_Fashion_Story_Nhuc_by_LoveTheVoid.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366069719039330930" border="0" /></a><br />3) Make staying home the new black.<br /><br />For all you social butterflies meeting your friends at fancy bars and restaurants several times a week: reconsider. It's great fun, but incredibly expensive. Why not throw a dinner party and get your friends to reciprocate? Have a cheese and wine evening or stay in with some friends, pop some popcorn and watch a movie. Obviously don't become a recluse - but start thinking about cheaper alternatives to activites you enjoy.<br /><br />4) Save automatically<br /><br />If possible, arrange with your employer that a cut of your paycheck is deposited automatically into your savings account. If this isn't possible, try to be disciplined and do the same yourself with online banking. Even if you don't manage it every month, it's better than nothing. At home, try keeping a piggy bank around. At the end of each week, empty all your spare change into it. Nice and easy - you won't even miss it!<br /><br />5) Get a second job<br /><br />Think you can spare an evening or two a week - maybe a day at weekends? Then this option may be for you. Jobs for students in particular are easy to come by: bar work, restaurant work, call centres, fast food gigs, even tutoring, so there's no excuse. If you're already in fulltime work, things are more tricky, but depending on the time you're willing to invest, it is possible. Many restaurants and bars will take on staff for just a few shifts a week, particularly for awkward shifts other employees like to avoid. If your hours are more flexible, try joining an agency to pick up odd shifts here and there.<br /><br />6) Do odd jobs<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO8kFsPHNsFHBeWS-gPg4Ul9ZfYbj-WiYHtPK3WnosgHHBv68LJPS3O68AFZ4yZLVopWgz5bMwHy7IuvscKV_Rq0COjVxEzvQWzfYNlRz_KmutvX5ZV9WJceaGZLapG1JUXScgRO6FjGkk/s1600-h/DogWalker.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO8kFsPHNsFHBeWS-gPg4Ul9ZfYbj-WiYHtPK3WnosgHHBv68LJPS3O68AFZ4yZLVopWgz5bMwHy7IuvscKV_Rq0COjVxEzvQWzfYNlRz_KmutvX5ZV9WJceaGZLapG1JUXScgRO6FjGkk/s200/DogWalker.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366069176413396994" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Babysitting, dog walking, lawn mowing? The world is your oyster. Ask around your circle of friends, post flyers in your neighbourhood, talk to your local parish, whatever you like. If you have additional talents, why not offer those out as well? Trained as an electrician? Quick and easy fixes. Studied history? Tutor some struggling students. Know a second language? Try teaching someone else. Make sure your prices are fair and people will pick up on it.<br /><br />7) Keep y<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizkFxBuwOyaEkICjXU_oNL71GugWsCYZqCnlrT7aTW2-WF72s87e6Lq2zuk1yNpES_w-CszRzzhijlob81EubYaqtw4s4c-AR5N1bNURHJZIymDq3ivLyNPCufooKhArGJ51JdDbycPXoF/s1600-h/pingpong.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 141px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizkFxBuwOyaEkICjXU_oNL71GugWsCYZqCnlrT7aTW2-WF72s87e6Lq2zuk1yNpES_w-CszRzzhijlob81EubYaqtw4s4c-AR5N1bNURHJZIymDq3ivLyNPCufooKhArGJ51JdDbycPXoF/s200/pingpong.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366068827803429698" border="0" /></a>our eye on the goal<br /><br /><br />It always helps to keep a close eye on your finances, particularly when you're saving for a particular goal. If you don't watch out, you can easily fall behind or fall totally off the wagon - this is not good! Make sure to check your bank statements regularly (internet banking is a godsend), keep your receipts together and try keeping a spreadsheet of your expenses so you can identify where your money's going. You might discover some seriously big drains this way that you'd never noticed before.<br /><br /><br />What are you favourite ways to cut back when you're saving? Do you give up eating out, maybe hold back on that daily cappuccino? (I'm lucky - we have a decent coffee machine at work) Maybe you have some more ingenious ways! Let me know!<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Come along and join the discussion in the HolidayCheck forum <a style="color: rgb(255, 204, 255);" href="http://www.holidaycheck.com/view.php?ch=fo&tid=90776&pid=1385487#1385487">here</a>. While you're there, remember that if you submit a hotel review you will not only be helping millions of other travellers make up their minds on where to go, but you can also win a nifty little Travel Translator for all those tricky situations abroad. </span>Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10865017975595468846noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6006368062816042459.post-35473958695853935192009-07-31T01:09:00.000-07:002009-08-03T00:10:54.539-07:00Guess the City!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV3bcJ2TA8pKcmaneQ6Uv-fwJG7qw9Wsi8si1Qc0I2Bmp9hhTC34Qpz1z8xtPDiYb6IZcdYi44YEKKsea-gXqVy5sa3UUxqmS2ZbvdEivluG7oNREKRndSJN22SNO7uIEvStRE61XM3xJY/s1600-h/katblogpic.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 151px; height: 194px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV3bcJ2TA8pKcmaneQ6Uv-fwJG7qw9Wsi8si1Qc0I2Bmp9hhTC34Qpz1z8xtPDiYb6IZcdYi44YEKKsea-gXqVy5sa3UUxqmS2ZbvdEivluG7oNREKRndSJN22SNO7uIEvStRE61XM3xJY/s200/katblogpic.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5364543394156385042" border="0" /></a><br />Hello all!<br /><br />Afraid sleep is eluding me currently, so I'm not in a terribly inspired frame of mind. That's why I'm going to go for a more visual emphasis (not because I'm lazy or anything...!)<br /><br />Just had a quick snoop through the archive and found these rather lovely pictures...but do you know where they are? (Click on them to have a little hint) I think some are a lot more obvious than others, but who know? I'm actually pretty terrible with my landmarks. Someone showed me a picture of Versailles a few weeks ago and I had no idea what it was. That may have something to do with my sieve of a memory or that I've never been to Paris - who knows?<br /><br />Anyway have fun guessing! Answers can be found at the bottom of the post in teeny-tiny text. Back with non-lazy, but perhaps less visually-appealling posts on Monday! Have a lovely weekend!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.holidaycheck.co.uk/data/urlaubsbilder/temp/41/1155760579.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 304px;" src="http://www.holidaycheck.co.uk/data/urlaubsbilder/temp/41/1155760579.jpg" alt="Holidaycheck, holiday, Germany" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5364534319103565538" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.holidaycheck.co.uk/data/urlaubsbilder/temp/158/1156238708.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://www.holidaycheck.co.uk/data/urlaubsbilder/temp/158/1156238708.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5364541529172634802" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.holidaycheck.co.uk/data/urlaubsbilder/temp/193/1156169740.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://www.holidaycheck.co.uk/data/urlaubsbilder/temp/193/1156169740.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5364540470541776914" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.holidaycheck.co.uk/data/urlaubsbilder/temp/8/1156300017.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="http://www.holidaycheck.co.uk/data/urlaubsbilder/temp/8/1156300017.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5364539269257580098" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.holidaycheck.co.uk/data/urlaubsbilder/temp/14/1155881561.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://www.holidaycheck.co.uk/data/urlaubsbilder/temp/14/1155881561.jpg" alt="Holidaycheck, holiday, Australia" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5364537437344488226" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.holidaycheck.co.uk/data/urlaubsbilder/temp/32/1156727321.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://www.holidaycheck.co.uk/data/urlaubsbilder/temp/32/1156727321.jpg" alt="Holidaycheck, user, Czech Republic" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5364535490742299234" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Like the pictures? Maybe looking for a hotel in the area? Head on over to </span><a style="color: rgb(255, 204, 255); font-style: italic;" href="http://www.holidaycheck.co.uk/">HolidayCheck.co.uk</a><span style="font-style: italic;"> to check </span><a style="color: rgb(255, 204, 255); font-style: italic;" href="http://www.holidaycheck.co.uk/">hotel reviews</a><span style="font-style: italic;">, travel pictures, videos and more. Enjoy!</span><br /><span style="font-size:78%;"><br />1) Heidelberg 2) St Petersburg 3) Seattle 4) Bangkok 5) Sydney 6) Prague</span>Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10865017975595468846noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6006368062816042459.post-72782595015433023352009-07-29T01:28:00.000-07:002009-07-29T01:34:02.543-07:00Swine Flu: Prevention is Cure for Travellers Woes<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheQB0Db7DzGqkJCAcShAd_EbH3kBsvSx2msNNDYqdoBgZbfCfhVnblnDptlYHDoZr9RGdKHOaxrdd6DKT5XXfa2pQ8ypsejRXBO5W7scOATsBTj9LVKp7ece09qH9-uYXZGRG_rU8TMVb-/s1600-h/markblog.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 154px; height: 194px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheQB0Db7DzGqkJCAcShAd_EbH3kBsvSx2msNNDYqdoBgZbfCfhVnblnDptlYHDoZr9RGdKHOaxrdd6DKT5XXfa2pQ8ypsejRXBO5W7scOATsBTj9LVKp7ece09qH9-uYXZGRG_rU8TMVb-/s200/markblog.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5363797008000259122" border="0" /></a><br />Last week 100,000 new cases of the HIN1 virus, commonly known as swine flu, were reported by the Health Protection Agency and it is continuing to spread like wildfire.With many overseas visitors now cancelling their UK holidays the impact on our domestic tourist industry is likely to be more drawn out. The situation also has unhappy implications for the outbound sector.<br /><br />Mark Parry, website manager for the online hotel review platform and travel agency holidaycheck.co.uk, summarised how the current climate would affect holidaymakers flying out of the UK, " some airlines are not letting passengers board flights if they suspect swine flu. Obviously this puts anyone with a cold or allergy in a difficult position. However, passengers with concerns should definitely find out about the current policies of specific airlines in advance. Generally, careful judgement should be applied when flying on the part of anyone who has any doubts whatsoever about their own state of health." Already 160 British nationals are detained in quarantine in Egypt, India, China and Singapore for displaying flu-type symptoms. British visitors to Turkey have to pass thermal monitors on their way through customs that check they have not got a fever.<br /><br />British Airways and British Midlands have confirmed they will not allow passengers with flu like symptoms to board flights. Furthermore, those subjected to this diagnostic shot in the dark will not be refunded – they are instead advised to refer the matter to their insurance companies.<br /><br />In view of all the problems holidaymakers can experience if they exhibit the symptoms specified before they fly it really makes sense to undertake steps to avoid contracting swine flu. Since the virus is passed on by inhaling droplets expelled from the mouth and nose of an infected person, as well as by touching contaminated surfaces, these four points relate to simple hygiene.<br /><br />...<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Hand washing.</span> Thoroughness and regularity must be your watchwords here. Many people neglect the backs of their hands and the skin between fingers.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Anti-bacterial gel. </span>To be really effective this should contain at least 30% alcohol (the label will list ethanol or ethyl alcohol as the key ingredients).<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJKsTOslBJYKi0GdFWNtTCHHDaUbEIMJs-zIjcOTh8HOb8d0idZcSAtJbQSy5sRzfzV-OueO2WFXicFkcGtiRscyrHh7TrodWalipLmN4VnAyNXlNjcI6yZrA-sDzdCL2z-uOZhtur6XWN/s1600-h/hab.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 147px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJKsTOslBJYKi0GdFWNtTCHHDaUbEIMJs-zIjcOTh8HOb8d0idZcSAtJbQSy5sRzfzV-OueO2WFXicFkcGtiRscyrHh7TrodWalipLmN4VnAyNXlNjcI6yZrA-sDzdCL2z-uOZhtur6XWN/s200/hab.JPG" alt="wash hands to prevent swine flu - tips from HolidayCheck" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5363797428022009394" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Use Tissues.</span> Disposable tissues should be binned right after use. Cotton hankies are a no-no since they harbour germs even after being washed.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Disposable paper masks.</span> Most effective in confined spaces i.e in an aeroplane cabin, provided they fit closely over the mouth and nose. When they get moist they should be replaced.<br /><br /><br />What do you think? Are you worried about swin flu, or just think it's a load of hot air? Share your opinions on our forum<a style="color: rgb(255, 204, 255);" href="http://www.holidaycheck.com/index.php?ch=fo"> here.</a>Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10865017975595468846noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6006368062816042459.post-72705926453678506152009-07-27T23:46:00.001-07:002009-07-27T23:49:56.284-07:00Kat and HolidayCheck on Flickr<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzK39JqpWNmcpm2vekZMBxVFBUDc-By5lrN-2BK9aQq8QnsnmNRMGOT1vDgQUaq_b2XqqX0Jk4oPdVjoV8Dnj3LP90FWGq9vnKVoPCGOWKCQw_DI0C3lyLzwyRhQ_Ftv3yPZPZOfdSLdXU/s1600-h/stowkat.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 191px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzK39JqpWNmcpm2vekZMBxVFBUDc-By5lrN-2BK9aQq8QnsnmNRMGOT1vDgQUaq_b2XqqX0Jk4oPdVjoV8Dnj3LP90FWGq9vnKVoPCGOWKCQw_DI0C3lyLzwyRhQ_Ftv3yPZPZOfdSLdXU/s200/stowkat.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5363399594698152914" border="0" /></a><br />Just a quick message to say: Kat and HolidayCheck now have a Flickr photostream. This is a collection of the very best of users' holiday photos and they are rather jealous-making*, if I don't say.<br /><br />You can check it out <a style="color: rgb(255, 204, 255);" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kc_holidaycheck">here.</a><br /><span style="font-size:78%;"><br />* am aware jealous-making is not a word, but in my list of favourite non-words it tops the list!</span>Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10865017975595468846noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6006368062816042459.post-89646770697402323942009-07-23T06:13:00.000-07:002009-08-03T00:12:05.134-07:00Eating Out in Vienna<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfZFfNA2SNaG3k7ak-ZakkvWujQ-L2gmltdacuIKmAOzBQf8v8ji2eL_6e9IpjG0HZ3vz6jk9aJ1leJclU2ror52i3K6yHyF5g8-jsXEJJtOUHjNO5yMSPIn4UyEFxlQbPBLDgP7Xy-JBh/s1600-h/katblogpic.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 151px; height: 194px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfZFfNA2SNaG3k7ak-ZakkvWujQ-L2gmltdacuIKmAOzBQf8v8ji2eL_6e9IpjG0HZ3vz6jk9aJ1leJclU2ror52i3K6yHyF5g8-jsXEJJtOUHjNO5yMSPIn4UyEFxlQbPBLDgP7Xy-JBh/s200/katblogpic.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5361644376710293506" border="0" /></a>Foodies alert! Today I'm going to tell you about how much I loved eating out in <span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 204, 255);"><a href="http://www.holidaycheck.co.uk/fastsearch.php?searchValue=vienna&suche=Search+now">Vienna</a> </span>(or Wien, as I am inclined to say!). Now, I am aware that in terms of sheer scale or innovation, Vienna doesn't exactly rival London, New York or Tokyo, but what I am convinced of is that you can eat very well there - and often for very reasonable prices.<br /><br />All of the places that follow are places I tried myself, so they've got my personal seal of approval. I eat generally vegetarian food, so you guys get a double whammy. Not only are these places great, but any veggies tagging along will be very happy.<br /><br />Unlike England, it's very hard to find Indian food in Vienna. For some reason, it just hasn't caught on. What you will find in its place is an abundance of<span style="font-weight: bold;"> sushi</span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.holidaycheck.co.uk/data/urlaubsbilder/temp/146/1156060216.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 138px; height: 200px;" src="http://www.holidaycheck.co.uk/data/urlaubsbilder/temp/146/1156060216.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5361931473184319954" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;"> restaurants, Vietnamese, Chinese, Japanese, Italian </span>and<span style="font-weight: bold;"> Viennese food</span>, along with a smattering of organic restaurants and coffee houses, which often make their own cake and treats are really are worth a blog entry of their own. Some other time, perhaps.<br /><br />I lived in the North of the city, but most of the best places I know are closer to the centre. I used to walk back and forth all the time, and one of my friends lived right in the middle of the my route. Turns out one of the best places we found was just down her street. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Ha Noi Express</span> is in Sechsschimmelgasse and serves a limited, but delicious menu, both for eating in and takeaway. It's basically very simple, but very good, Vietnamese cooking. I have never had better tofu in my life: full stop. My other dining companions also raved about the fish and chicken skewers. Service can be a bit iffy, but in any case it's worth it.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-j-o5BD26LSjxQcaiRXKrPtapXBOX50LeWMjA5tzUMQu3qU7JmxtkstmSTYAbQ44HN2mqG82hUAEcRTAIc_PehwhrLIa5ULfcaImcLcmmy-3aBD986zmVe145dd4igHTrbpOelm9nLYNd/s1600-h/sush.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-j-o5BD26LSjxQcaiRXKrPtapXBOX50LeWMjA5tzUMQu3qU7JmxtkstmSTYAbQ44HN2mqG82hUAEcRTAIc_PehwhrLIa5ULfcaImcLcmmy-3aBD986zmVe145dd4igHTrbpOelm9nLYNd/s200/sush.JPG" alt="Dots Experimental Sushi, Vienna. Courtesy of Kat, HolidayCheck" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5361644207077439170" border="0" /></a>If you're more in the mood for sushi, I suggest above all: <span style="font-weight: bold;">Dots Experimental Sushi.</span> Don't be put off by the name - they also serve warm dishes and normal sushi. However, if you are more adventurous there's also no end to the strange combinations you can go for. Every plate is gorgeous - I hope you can see the picture, but that's me with by huuuge plate of vegetarian sushi. Absolutely lovely, and so pretty. The service is very good and although the drinks are expensive, the sushi is actually a bargain. The quality is the highest I found in Vienna and yet the prices are the same you'd find in an average restaurant. Just remember to book a table in advance, because it's quite popular!<br /><br /><br />Well, what about Italian? Vienna is heavy with great Italian restaurants, but I have one clear favourite: <span style="font-weight: bold;">Pizza Mari.</span> This restaurant is run by Italians and has a small, traditional menu with only a few appetisers and toppings available. The pizzas are stunning. I had a traditional pizza with tomato, buffalo mozzarella and rocket and it was one of the best I've had. It's<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiegKvwt7w5ZPtm1kYxTSBP08dTheAok5eoLzgqjc72VaBjkKVSXVpge87JB2GAfxaKODxv-kE9G3SX9dkA0uC7vispSKgZXVSXLex3BfMZISHdIErlEGCDNEVeDD2ET71ScJZgcLv36mp3/s1600-h/amer.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 142px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiegKvwt7w5ZPtm1kYxTSBP08dTheAok5eoLzgqjc72VaBjkKVSXVpge87JB2GAfxaKODxv-kE9G3SX9dkA0uC7vispSKgZXVSXLex3BfMZISHdIErlEGCDNEVeDD2ET71ScJZgcLv36mp3/s200/amer.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5361647480409069906" border="0" /></a> located in a quiet street but has a cult following, so you may have to wait for a table - but please do, because you won't regret it!<br /><br />Finally, on to Austrian food. Go to <span style="font-weight: bold;">Amerlingbeisl</span> - it's a command. Not only is the location absolutely stunning and the food fantastic, but it's a cultural hub. All kinds of groups meet here to discuss politicals, music, whatever they feel like. I always liked watching them leave and wondering which group they belonged to. Food is simple, there is plenty of variety and the portions are generous. I had trouble finishing mine, but did anyway because it was so good. I found the staff very friendly, although the place does get busy in the evenings.<br /><br />In any case, be careful...otherwise you might end up like me at the end of my trip...!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDsseeyA2R_GwilOI3jGAcxzBGOaVqRNjoeKUicQaP61AGG5zB2uPKf0e1peAyrVzUPy1YmivbINQOA6-u-ZnD-LSxGcVlGfEFVvpMkWjNL2JM6Ys4dZ2WkfQr6IRDS4Pwdu23xEKXI6of/s1600-h/bd.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDsseeyA2R_GwilOI3jGAcxzBGOaVqRNjoeKUicQaP61AGG5zB2uPKf0e1peAyrVzUPy1YmivbINQOA6-u-ZnD-LSxGcVlGfEFVvpMkWjNL2JM6Ys4dZ2WkfQr6IRDS4Pwdu23xEKXI6of/s320/bd.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5361648065978644018" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">To read more from Kat, follow her on Twitter: </span><a style="color: rgb(255, 204, 255); font-style: italic;" href="http://www.twitter.com/KC_HolidayCheck">@KC_HolidayCheck</a><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">For more treats and tips, head on over to </span><a style="color: rgb(255, 204, 255); font-style: italic;" href="http://www.holidaycheck.co.uk/">www.holidaycheck.co.uk</a><span style="font-style: italic;"> To stay up-to-date with HolidayCheck news, articles and new blog posts, </span><a style="color: rgb(255, 204, 255); font-style: italic;" href="http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/pages/HolidayCheck-UK/100099136197?ref=ts">become our fan on Facebook.</a>Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10865017975595468846noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6006368062816042459.post-36435521977015477992009-07-22T04:46:00.000-07:002009-08-18T23:59:37.087-07:00International Flirting Trends<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi22ZC5ofaACyVZBdWY0mPRR7h8uSKmyoh_rR82LEBBH6lzsMUTRZympU8fE30OMawzJR0LIaLeBvuXiXHBsuIUS28rg2vbJqtSE6iny2_YzWKzuUwM3rFcV6hazZ4t_mdIC4_uTlAORRhI/s1600-h/markblog.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 154px; height: 194px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi22ZC5ofaACyVZBdWY0mPRR7h8uSKmyoh_rR82LEBBH6lzsMUTRZympU8fE30OMawzJR0LIaLeBvuXiXHBsuIUS28rg2vbJqtSE6iny2_YzWKzuUwM3rFcV6hazZ4t_mdIC4_uTlAORRhI/s200/markblog.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5361252679766345474" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">A recent HolidayCheck survey demonstrates that the British, French, Germans and Italians flirt in different ways and have distinct preferences with regard to the locations they choose to flirt in. </span><br /><br />Italians view the poolside or the beach as a place for flirty interaction. 36.8% of those questioned like to flirt on the beach. 24.7% of French holidaymakers questioned expressed a similar preference for flirting at the water's edge. The corresponding figure for the Germans was 29.2%. By contrast the water seems to douse the amorous instincts of the English since only 23.9% of those asked would 'take the plunge' and risk a little poolside flirting.<br /><br />When hotels and resorts lay on entertainment, the inclination of guests to get flirty rises accordingly. Particularly those activities where guests are separated in small groups (anyone for tennis?) offer rich pickings: this suggests people are more prepared to take a risk when there are fewer people around to see them slip up. For the French these organised activities are ranked very highly on the flirt-scale (30.4%). The corresponding figures for the Italians, English and Germans are 26.4%, 13% and 11.4% respectively.<br /><br />The survey suggests that many holidaymakers are up for more than sightseeing on a guided tour. The coach environment and the potential for pairs being thrown together randomly due to seating arrangements mean that 15.2% of those French subjects questioned saw such occasions as ripe flirting opportunities. 14.9 % of the Italians had a similar point of view. Amongst the Germans, 12.6% would not be adverse to a bit of 'flirten'. The English are stubbornly resistant to the romantic possibilities of the coach excursion. A mere 8.7% of UK residents approached expressed interest in the idea. More susceptible to travel than love sickness perhaps?<br /><br />By way of contrast, the club scene is a happier hunting ground for the English. 28.4% of her Majesty's subjects approached in our survey were interested not only in throwing some shapes on the floor but also in pulling (or trying to pull). However, the Germans are most likely to put aside their teutonic reserve here; 34.7% of them indicated their readiness to flirt in the disco. The French also proved willing (25.3%) but here the Italians are out of step with a paltry 12.6%.<br /><br />An advantage of engaging in flirtatious behaviour on an aeroplane is that the object of your affections cannot escape. The English have seized upon this with enthusiasm and 26.1% of those surveyed were quite prepared to give it a go. At least they're not wasting any time getting into the holiday spirit. The corresponding figures for Germany (12.1%), Italy (9.6%) and France (4.4%) suggest they all need a bit more time to loosen up.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Have a look at our</span><span style="color: rgb(255, 204, 255); font-style: italic;"> </span><a style="color: rgb(255, 204, 255); font-style: italic;" href="http://www.holidaycheck.co.uk/">photos and videos</a><span style="color: rgb(255, 204, 255); font-style: italic;"> </span><span style="font-style: italic;">to see if the statistics really don't lie! For more hints and tips on travel, have a look at </span><a style="color: rgb(255, 204, 255); font-style: italic;" href="http://www.holidaycheck.co.uk/">holidaycheck.co.uk</a><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">To read more from Mark, follow him on twitter </span><a style="color: rgb(255, 204, 255); font-style: italic;" href="http://twitter.com/mp_holidaycheck">here.</a>Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10865017975595468846noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6006368062816042459.post-73793316544688070962009-07-20T00:55:00.001-07:002009-07-21T05:24:21.300-07:00Party Machen<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8msVtywwXPcKJ0m77LeBXAc_Rc_hsNRuQNDr4QK6_gTYrM3HWgMp-BFReM6la1jdDV6KgqloXA7c7Gt0Fyg1vzjK2PStmAVFN5OJntVLsMQiEwynnAAoR45z4Bn-jjewmjFh61UJE73S5/s1600-h/katblogpic.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 151px; height: 194px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8msVtywwXPcKJ0m77LeBXAc_Rc_hsNRuQNDr4QK6_gTYrM3HWgMp-BFReM6la1jdDV6KgqloXA7c7Gt0Fyg1vzjK2PStmAVFN5OJntVLsMQiEwynnAAoR45z4Bn-jjewmjFh61UJE73S5/s200/katblogpic.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5360884270423642946" border="0" /></a><br />Hi ladies and gents!<br /><br />My lovely colleague just sent me some pictures ahead of time, so I'm going to go ahead and post today instead of tomorrow. Or maybe I'll treat you all and post tomorrow too! Who knows.<br /><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilbXetOmrCoZtH4JszOpJviheQQLqvbrg1FwUTkdLhk_h1uWILObh7PtDDwtKm6fpRNZLOFVzhw7WVHW5Fw2mYD3QSE9izTJyINri94REAV-he3MKeUZjgSCgxfZk4ZOUl9byol43qlzf8/s1600-h/2.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 237px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilbXetOmrCoZtH4JszOpJviheQQLqvbrg1FwUTkdLhk_h1uWILObh7PtDDwtKm6fpRNZLOFVzhw7WVHW5Fw2mYD3QSE9izTJyINri94REAV-he3MKeUZjgSCgxfZk4ZOUl9byol43qlzf8/s320/2.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5360884613531537522" border="0" /></a><br /><br />I spent most of my weekend recovering from work party on Friday evening. The whole thing had been booked for months and was essentially our 'Sommerfest' - summer celebration, if you will - so thus, of course, it had to tip it down with rain on the day!<br /><br />I had to nip out of work speedily to get there by bike. I had hoped to be able to pop in quickly at home and change out of my nasty cycling gear, but alas, my bike chain came off and then I lost my bike lock (clever, I know), so I spent the party in my ratty cycling shorts and waterproof jacket. Clearly I did not win any fashion awards that evening.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgahfx1mNcCWdCuvE4b5jNCwgelPJysxEb1gBgxPZdp_AETvWZQGPLIumG0PxfGYc4K0GZKlt5BI3-9YNqMjASGSH_hddMFMcIYJpiIpl-itrJ4I-Z5_Tp2wYyrPng4hEfN6RO9iscYRb5M/s1600-h/1.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgahfx1mNcCWdCuvE4b5jNCwgelPJysxEb1gBgxPZdp_AETvWZQGPLIumG0PxfGYc4K0GZKlt5BI3-9YNqMjASGSH_hddMFMcIYJpiIpl-itrJ4I-Z5_Tp2wYyrPng4hEfN6RO9iscYRb5M/s320/1.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5360884516547829426" border="0" /></a><br />In any case, otherwise it was great. HolidayCheck rented out a nice bar slash restaurant on the banks of the Rhein and drinks and food were on the house. We had some games - including dinghy racing - before the rain started, but when it had begun it didn't stop for the entire rest of the night or next day.<br /><br />Still, the rain definitely did not put a damper on our celebrations. The bar we were at serves fantastic mojitos, so everybody had a few (too many!). I have to admit that one of the highlights for me was my colleague, Wei (otherwise known as Team China). She had only one drink, but because she's not used to it, went bright pink. You can kind of see it in the photo above! I think she was a bit embarrassed, but everyone else thought it was quite funny and sweet.<br /><br />Basically, HolidayCheck is just a nice company to work for. The International Team are all friendly and we get on really well. In the two photos above, we've got people from China, Italy, France, Poland, Germany, Spain and the Czech Republic. Not bad, eh?<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh47c5fPmwyF5lZLWQbOK7n2R7t-IDFRuJx44iM4zXVbDCdHx7iPrifiq_3K_P9eKnIhhLrBM7lG-qdC8MJnPpNXyeVyhoAAchGWhp475eAG3AGDtwaWf8ysn4h3xvALAd4f-4fEmXTCvSZ/s1600-h/3.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 233px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh47c5fPmwyF5lZLWQbOK7n2R7t-IDFRuJx44iM4zXVbDCdHx7iPrifiq_3K_P9eKnIhhLrBM7lG-qdC8MJnPpNXyeVyhoAAchGWhp475eAG3AGDtwaWf8ysn4h3xvALAd4f-4fEmXTCvSZ/s320/3.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5360885895005029714" border="0" /></a><br /><---- Here, we've also got our Dutch manager and myself! The others are Celine, our French manager, and Carlos, who's an intern like me.<br /><br />I'm told that the party went on well into the early hours, but I ended up getting a bit chilly and going home - remember, I only had my trendy cycling shorts on! Verdict, however: good evening!Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10865017975595468846noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6006368062816042459.post-32030736679977067822009-07-17T00:19:00.000-07:002009-07-17T04:35:13.679-07:00German airline to offer smoking-only aircraft<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZDsliqcZwIpbQ_2y_jN-14-jjP37wzEIKrcF8nG7bvVNvDrIrMvxhN6CZFtZP9B8wOzfk3TV5Jsd8ZcJ9V2y2gDuLVs1Q1ruByvmjRPOLG1Cw168PN70H0S3iv4RLYLIpGRKEAd5Fb6cN/s1600-h/katblogpic.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 151px; height: 194px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZDsliqcZwIpbQ_2y_jN-14-jjP37wzEIKrcF8nG7bvVNvDrIrMvxhN6CZFtZP9B8wOzfk3TV5Jsd8ZcJ9V2y2gDuLVs1Q1ruByvmjRPOLG1Cw168PN70H0S3iv4RLYLIpGRKEAd5Fb6cN/s200/katblogpic.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5359327295234821746" border="0" /></a><br />During my daily browsing, I stumbled across <a href="http://www.gadling.com/2009/07/16/german-airline-to-offer-smoking-not-non/#comments">this post</a> from Gadling.<br /><br />While I am very much anti-smoking myself, having worked in a smoky bar and lived with a housemate who smoked (did not do me good!!), I like this idea. I mean, everybody on the planet must know by know that smoking is bad, expensive, can give you cancer etc. But people still do it anyway and it's only fair to offer a choice.<br /><br />I can imagine, for instance, that a seven-hour flight is hellish for a heavy smoker. And while I don't believe non-smokers should be subjected to cigarette smoke against their will, I also don't think options for smokers should just be wiped out.<br /><br />It seems this service, which is still in its planning stages, will be a rather upmarket affair, so not much help to the majority of the general population, but still. I hope that it does come to fruition - if not least because smokers have been rather hard-done-by lately and could probably do with an in-flight ciggie.<br /><br />What do you all think? Am I wrong to endorse this? Or is it a victimless crime when everybody has gone along with it consensually?<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">To read more from Kat, follow her on Twitter<span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);"> </span><a style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);" href="http://twitter.com/KC_HolidayCheck">here</a><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);"> </span>and say hello! Alternatively become a fan of HolidayCheck UK on facebook for all the latest news from the site.</span>Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10865017975595468846noreply@blogger.com0