Majorca has been home to a number of sporting talents through the years. Right now, as the ATP World Tour Finals progress, the island can be proud of its contribution to international tennis in the shape of Majorcan star Rafael Nadal.
The Finals see top tennis players from around the world battle it out for the title. This year’s showdown event will take place in London between 22nd and 29th November 2009, where players will unleash their talents for the last time this season. Players such as Roger Federer, Andy Murray and Majorcan born Rafael Nadal are hot prospects this year.
Rafael Nadal was born in Manacor, in east Majorca. Proving himself to be a great talent at an early age, in August last year he reached the world number 1 spot where he stayed for 46 weeks. Nadal is not the only Majorcan to reach the dizzy heights of tennis stardom, either. Former champion Carlos Moya was born in Palma de Majorca, rising to become world number 1 in 1999.
Budding tennis pros can now easily enjoy the same favourable climate, fresh food and beautiful scenery that nurtured both Nadal and Moya through their early careers when they head to the Mediterranean island of Majorca. The island is currently working hard to encourage tourists to its beautiful shores, with Majorca hotels offering great deals across popular locations, from the quiet beach resorts to buzzing Magalluf and the capital city, Palma de Majorca. Deals on all inclusive Majorca hotels for example can be found for as low as £20 per person per night currently. Meanwhile, for those wanting to brush up on their tennis skills, there are plenty of facilities available both at the various resorts and out in the local communities, with all types of player catered for. Whether you prefer to spend your time on the court or by the pool, the life of an island tennis star could be closer than you think. The wide variety of cheap hotels available means you are bound to find something to suit you.
Spain’s huge variety and versatility has made it a favourite holiday hot spot for Brits. Whatever you desire for your next getaway abroad, Spain can deliver in some shape or form. Its famous Costas along the south coast, for example, offer a huge range just on their own. So which one is right for you? There is, of course, immense cross-over. You can still enjoy a great round of golf in Costa Brava, just as you’ll find many stunning beaches along the Costa del Sol. Over the years, though, some trends have emerged. Costa visitors of all varieties have found their niche, so here are some of their top choices:
Golf enthusiast: Costa del Sol Often affectionately referred to as the ‘Costa del Golf’, this Spanish Costa is an ideal choice for eager novice and veteran golfers alike. The region has an extremely high concentration of courses, with over 50 in the area. The world renowned Valderrama championship course is an obvious example of the Costa del Sol’s top class facilities. Designed by noted architect Robert Trent Jones, Sr, the course was the first in continental Europe to host the Ryder Cup, in 2002. To kick start your own golf career, check out the latest cheap deals on Costa del Sol hotels.
Beach explorer: Costa Brava The Costa Brava offers great variety for beach lovers, including fine golden sand to lie back and relax on, coastal paths to follow for miles, and rocky inlets to clamber over and explore. The region’s delights can be discovered by land or sea, with trekking, sailing and even glass-bottomed trips all available. Along the coastline, a select range of rural villages and landscapes allow visitors an insight into the ‘real’ Spain as they venture away from the tourist filled resorts. Beaches that come recommended include Aigua Blava, Tamariu, Llafanc and Gandia. To begin the adventure, have a look at the latest deals on Costa Brava hotels.
Watersports fan: Costa Blanca Scuba diving, jet skiing, paragliding, windsurfing, sailing and sea fishing… these are some of the main watersports available along the Costa Blanca, but the list goes on. A huge range of specialist schools litter the coastline ready to coach visitors of all abilities in diving, windsurfing and much more. To start exploring Spain’s ocean offerings, get up to speed with the latest offers on Costa Blanca hotels.
Theme park junkie: Costa Dorada Fun seeking adrenalin junkies will be instantly attracted to Spain’s largest theme park, PortAventura in the Costa Dorada. Situated within the huge PortAventura holiday resort – the largest resort of its kind in Europe – the park boasts spine-tingling rides and amusements all grouped into internationally themed ‘worlds’, from Imperial China to Aztec Mexico. If you fancy a change of scene half way through all the excitement, then you can always consider a trip to the Aquopolis water park in La Pineda. Have a look at the latest Costa Dorada hotels deals to plan your Spanish adrenalin injection.
The Canary Islands are a breathtaking collection of paradise holiday destinations. Offering endless sunshine and year-round good temperatures, they’re a no brainer for sun-worshippers. For beach holiday relaxation at its best, then head to the glistening coastlines of Fuerteventura and Gran Canaria. The range of cheap hotels deals available at the moment means a break in the sun doesn’t have to break the bank either. Here’s a selection of some of the best beaches to check out when you visit.
Corralejo, Fuerteventura The fishing town of Corralejo to the north of the island offers a range of beautiful dunes and sandy coastlines to explore, alongside the town’s modern marina and old harbour. Now the island’s biggest resort, Corralejo’s larger beaches are particularly tourist focused, with calm waters and plenty to do making them an ideal choice for families.
Caleta De Fuste, Fuerteventura Located on the east coast of the island, Caleta De Fuste is a purpose built holiday town created around an attractive cove. This family-friendly resort boasts a white sandy beach, great selection of hotels and an abundance of activities.
Playa De Sotavento, Fuerteventura Playa De Sotavento has made a name for itself among windsurfers and other watersports fans, thanks to its miles of coastline and favourable winds. As excellent proof of its great conditions and general appeal, the Windsuring and Kiteboarding World Cup is held here every year.
Maspalomas, Gran Canaria Well known for their incredible sand dunes, the beaches of Maspalomas are a stunning natural choice. Enjoy exploring them by foot, or jump on a camel for something completely different! If you’d rather just relax in the sun, Playa De Maspalomas itself features beautiful golden sand and a pretty lighthouse to admire from your sun lounger.
Playa De San Agustin, Gran Canaria The volcanic landscapes of the Canary Islands can be seen all over the islands, including along the coastlines. Playa De San Agustin is a good example of this, offering a dark sand alternative to the white beaches found in other parts of the island if you fancy a change of scene.
Playa Del Ingles, Gran Canaria An enduring favourite for huge numbers of tourists each year, the Playa Del Ingles (English beach!) offers amusements galore and affordable accommodation, making it a good choice for both families and groups.
The Greek islands have plenty to offer holiday-makers of all types who are after a sun-filled Mediterranean break. Crete and Corfu are arguably two of the most popular islands. Both have beautiful beaches, an excellent climate, ancient sites and unspoilt villages as well as plenty of bars, restaurants, watersports and other activities to be enjoyed. In fact, it can be difficult to choose between them, so here are some highlights to help you make up your mind.
Crete
Crete is the largest of the Greek islands and the most far south, meaning plenty of sunshine and warm weather. For families, Hersonissos is a popular choice offering safe waters, plenty of amenities and the renowned Star Beach water park and beach resort, which has an abundance of amusements and thrills. If you’re looking for a more peaceful break, head south to Chania, an area often referred to as one of the most stunning on the island, or for an ancient culture fix check out Heraklion’s impressive Knossos ruins – an ancient Minoan palace and legendary prison of the mythical Minotaur. Meanwhile, action and wild nights out can be found in the bars and clubs of buzzing Malia. Whatever type of holiday you’re looking for, there are some great cheap hotels deals on Crete hotels at the moment to help make it complete.
Corfu
In contrast to Crete, Corfu is the most northern of the main Greek islands and the seventh largest of the archipelago. Its close proximity to the mainland – just a 50 minute ferry ride from Igoumensita to southern Corfu, or 1.5 hours to Corfu Town – makes it a convenient choice for those seeking a change of scene during their holiday. Corfu Town is where most of the action is. This large and bustling town offers fortresses, museums, shops and restaurants galore as well as some attractive and unusual Venetian architecture. Golf enthusiasts should head to the beautiful Ropa Valley in the centre of the island, where they’ll find Corfu’s acclaimed championship golf course. Meanwhile, families can enjoy a trip to the popular Aqualand water park in Agios Ioannis. Whether you’re seeking action or relaxation, the latest deals available on Corfu hotels will make it a trip to remember.
Berlin is perhaps the most interesting travel destination in Europe right now. There is a dynamic feeling in Berlin, as if the city is still young and innovative.
Since the reunification of East Berlin, this city has been undergoing a huge change, reinventing itself. What was previously foreign, the entire culture of the east, is still in the process of being incorporated into the bigger picture. And what does this mean for travelers to Berlin?
It means that all you have to do is to book a stay in a Berlin city hotel, and you then have a large, fascinating and adventurous city to explore. When you visit Berlin, try to keep the following tips in mind.
Be sure to check out Berlin’s exclusive “shopping mall”, Kurfürstendamm (known to the locals as “Ku’damm”).
Consider having a drink in one of Berlin’s trendy Beach Bars in the summer months. These are bars built on the River Spree or one of the Canals flowing through Berlin that use sand to create a real on-the-beach feeling, in the middle of the city!
Take a bus tour and a boat tour of Berlin.
Be sure and take a stroll around Alexanderplatz, which was one of the main shopping areas of East Berlin.
Consider dining or going for a drink at the restaurant at the top of the “Fernsehturm” or TV Tower that is located near Alexanderplatz.
Be sure and view the Branderburg Gate, a large decorative gateway located on the elegant street named Unter den Linden.
Whatever you do – don’t forget to snack on a Currywurst. Berliners like to snack on a spicy kind of sausage known as the Currywurst, and there are snack stands that make these available.
Winters in Berlin can frankly be long, cold and somewhat dark. When planning your trip, choose one of the summer or spring months to enjoy the best weather. One benefit of the long winters in Berlin is that Berliners are typically in a kind of party mood when the weather is nice, which is another good argument for visiting this city in the middle of summer.
When you look for a Berliner hotel, make sure that you choose one of the city hotels in Berlin. Although the public transportation system in Berlin is excellent, you truly want to be located somewhere where the action is, and preferably very close to one of the many subway stations located downtown.
We hope these tips will help you plan for a possible visit to downtown Berlin, one of Europe’s most vibrant cities!
Relaxing on the beach and letting the cares of daily life drift away is a top pastime for holiday-makers, but it’s often confined to the tourist-heavy peak seasons. If you’d rather stay away from the crowds and fancy saving a bit of money at the same time, then out-of-season holidaying could be for you. You don’t have to trek half way across the globe either. There’s a good mix of year-round destinations much closer to home and some excellent hotel deals to be had as well.
Canary Islands
The Canary Islands are an excellent choice for year-round sunbathing. The climate is warm and dry and the diverse selection of islands means you are bound to find the right location for you. Tenerife, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria and Lanzarote are the most commonly visited islands and all offer dazzling coastlines and varying degrees of action and adventure. Temperatures usually remain over 20°C all year round so the concept of peak season has been slightly distorted here. November to mid-December and April to June – avoiding Easter – are good times to enjoy fewer crowds and cheap Canaries hotels. A one bedroom bungalow on Fuerteventura can be found for as little as £10 per person per night this November.
Cyprus
Cyprus makes a good early spring option due to its favourable Mediterranean climate. Avoid the peak season months of June to September to experience the quieter and more affordable side of this beautiful isle. Head there in April and May to enjoy average maximum temperatures of 22°C to 26°C. Temperatures remain high into October and November, but heavier rainfall makes these months a less appealing choice. In mid-April, prices for Cyprus hotels in the Paphos area go as low as £14 per person per night.
Egypt
For something a bit different, head to Egypt and prepare to explore the exotic land of the Pharaohs. There are a multitude of attractions both above and below sea level making a visit definitely worthwhile. To avoid the crowds, stay away during the peak season months between October and May and instead visit in June or September. Temperatures soar to over 30°C in Cairo during these months, though, so be prepared to take it easy. The cheap Egypt hotels available should help take the edge of the heat; accommodation in Cairo can be booked for a little as £11 per person per night for a one week stay in September..
