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5 Considerations While On A Road Trip
Tuesday, April 17th, 2012 /

Scenic beauty is your thing then road trips are a must on your vacation itinerary. It is said that the journey itself becomes the destination as it offers one of its kind experiences. People who love taking cross country road trips can vouch for the adrenaline rush that their journey gave. The destination figures a distance second.

Whether by car or bike, a road trip is a life changing experience for many as not only it allows a person to visit different destinations but also makes life even more interesting what with meeting different people of different regions, tasting varied cuisine and visiting places that do not figure on the map.

Image Credit: express000

The pros at the road trip game provide guidelines for making that road trip a memorable one; whether alone or kids in tow.

Considerations While Travelling By Road:

  1. Keep Your Vehicle In Great Condition – Road trips to near or far destinations by bike or car require that the vehicle to be used is in great working condition. You would not like the car /bike to breakdown in the middle of nowhere. Make a check list of what part needs replacement or repair. Check for air pressures, grease/oil and fuel levels, motor running conditions, locking systems, GPS if available, insurance and ownership papers to name a few. If possible run a full check on the vehicle to avoid problems at later stage.
  2. Pack Luggage As Required – Packing too much or too little would mean disaster and expense. Pack your luggage as per the climate of the region you will be passing through or reaching. Preempt the requirements by making a list of things you will need; sorting the things you already have and shopping for things which you do not.
  3. Know Your Route - Sometimes it is easy to wander off if you are travelling alone. Therefore ensure that you stick to the route and do not be afraid to ask for directions; after taking precautionary measures – do not reveal too much information about yourself to total strangers. If going on trip with the family ensure that they also know the route after consulting maps or GPRS as the case may be.
  4. Food & Water Supply – Long trips make you very hungry. Pack as much food from home as possible to avoid unnecessary expenses and health scares. Keep your homemade sandwiches, celery sticks, yogurts, dips and salads (cucumber, carrot, tomatoes, olives etc) in a cooler. At the same time add to this list fun and healthy snacks such as whole grain crackers, dry fruits, granola bars, fresh fruits and natural fruit juices to eat when you do not want to eat out. These are also useful when the kids are around. However, longer trips require that you eat at roadside joints/restaurants. Make the best of the menu by selecting items that are health – low calorie, high fiber. Steer away from soda and sweetened juices as they work as diuretics and will dehydrate you sooner than later. Buy bottled water in large quantities to keep dehydration and fatigue at bay.
  5. Breaks – Continuous driving is not only hazardous but also bad for your back. Take small breaks at two hour intervals to relieve back pain and all the toxins. Persons travelling with children know the importance of providing small breaks for a happy travelling experience. Children are a content lot when they have toys, portable games/dvd players, books/comics or even a favorite blanket/pillow while on a road trip. For babies and toddlers it is specifically recommended that they be strapped to a baby seat and be given small breaks to avoid crankiness.

The joys of travelling by road are beyond compare. A road trip is a great way for the family to come together to share wonderful experiences. It allows the children to see and understand various locales and cultures. It provides enriching experience that creates fond memories to be recalled later over a family dinner.

The author, who has authored health related articles on HGH, acne solution and yoga, is fond of taking road trips and believes that they offer enriching experiences for the entire family.

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Find a Cheap Peak Season Airline Ticket-Tips & Tricks
Tuesday, April 10th, 2012 /

Everyone likes to travel around the same times each year, which is why airlines raise prices during these peak seasons. If you want to travel around a holiday or during summer months, flights are going to cost you more money than they would if you traveled to the same destination during non-peak seasons.
If you want to travel during peak seasons, there are ways to find cheap flights—it just takes a little bit of hard work and some sacrifices. The following are six tips and tricks to finding cheap flight during peak seasons.

1. Don’t be stuck on your schedule.

Everyone wants to fly when it’s convenient for them, but the more convenient the flight, the more expensive it’s going to be. If you become flexible with your flying schedule, you can land some great deals. For example, trying flying in or flying out at an odd time, such as 3 or 4am. Not many people will want to take these flights, so the prices for them are a lot less expensive than flying at a more normal time.
This also works with days of the week. Flying over the weekend is more expensive than mid week flights. Instead of traveling from Saturday to Saturday, try traveling Wednesday to Wednesday instead.
2. Be willing to stop.

One-way flights are more expensive than those that make multiple stops. While multiple stops and plenty of flight transfers can make your travel time longer and more exhausting, it’s a great way to save on airfare during peak flying seasons. Not many people are willing to accept layovers, but if you can make this sacrifice, it will help keep money in your pocket.
3. Use smaller airports.

The more popular an airport is, the more expensive flying in and out of them will be. Try to find lesser known or smaller airports in a close proximity to your destination. It may require you to drive a bit further, but flying in to Baltimore instead of Washington DC for example could save you hundreds of dollars on flights.
4. Become a frequent flyer.

Most airlines offer rewards to members who are frequent flyers. Though you need to do a lot of traveling in order to earn the rewards, you do get rewarded with cheaper—and sometimes free—flights. Plus, frequent flyer members tend to be kept in the know more than non members. Airlines will send out email notifications of specials or possibly make them aware of any last-minute openings on certain flights.
5. Book early.

If you book your flight far enough in advance, you will have a significantly cheaper flight than those who are booking at the last minute. If you are planning a vacation during the summer, you should book your flight after the holidays. Airlines will oftentimes double the price of a flight for those who are booking closer to their departure date.
6. Shop around.

Do not ever take the first flight you find. If you want to find a great deal on a peak season flight, you need to take your time to do some comparison shopping. Use the airline’s direct websites as well as other travel sites, such as Travelocity or Orbitz. You may just find the best deal at the last site you check.
You shouldn’t have to spend a fortune to travel during peak seasons. Use these six tips to help you find a flight at a great deal, and you can spend all your extra savings on touristy things.

Glen Griffin is an airline pilot and father who loves to spend his free time writing for blogs. He is an outspoken advocate for proper grammar and often encourages his associates to proof their work with a grammar checker. His favorite part of flying is bringing along his own bag of spicy peanuts and digging in.

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The Best UK Holiday TV Shows
Thursday, February 16th, 2012 /

The holiday show is arguably the purest form of escapism, especially on a dank November evening in the UK. Nothing melts those icy winter blues better than watching what could be your next holiday unfold in front of you. Seeing other people relax on the beach and frolicking in the sea will plant ideas in your head as you eagerly dig out the holiday broachers; jealousy isn’t the only emotion you might experience when watching such shows however, some of these examples encapsulate the frustration around delayed flights and sub-par accommodation.

The UK has always had a thriving tourism industry, but an equal amount of its inhabitants look to vacate the country each summer in search of sunnier climbs. This, added to Brits down to earth attitude and propensity to not take themselves too seriously makes the UK an ideal market for a gamut of holiday shows, each with wildly varying themes and attitudes. Here are five of the best…

Airline

Focusing on the trials and tribulations of Luton Airpot, Airline follows the frustrations of staff forced to deal with angry and uncooperative passengers, most of whom have arrived too late to check in. Operating like a soap opera, Airline delved into the personal lives of check-in staff at the airport who were undoubtedly the stars of the shows!

Holiday Show-Down

In this innovative game-show type format, two very families get together, both going on each other’s ‘dream holidays’ for a week. Much hilarity ensues when middle-class wannabe aristocrats are dragged round Blackpool, and equally, when overweight alcoholic parents with hyperactive kids are introduced to an active walking holiday.

Holiday

The original and best. The late Jill Dando’s soothing, melancholy voice almost sounded like the waves lapping at your feet and the soft, exotic title music said ‘holiday’ like no other. The high-brow review show featured a number of different presenters and celebrities documenting their experiences in various popular and not so popular holiday destinations.

Club Reps

Taking a look at the hedonistic lives of a group of club reps in places like Gran Canaria and Falaraki, Club Reps was more about working on holiday than going on holiday (though how getting drunk with a group of hotel guests constitutes ‘work’ is anyone’s guess). In total contrast from a show like ‘Holiday’, drinking and debauchery are the order of the day for the Club Reps.

Holidays from Hell

Part of ITV’s ‘from hell’ mini-franchise that included ‘Neighbours from Hell’, this particular show took a glance at the grim underbelly of the travel industry, exposing hotels that didn’t deliver on their promises, providing shoddy accommodation and below-par cuisine.

Joe is a travel blogger who loves watching travel TV shows as much as he loves actually travelling! He’s looking forward to his Dubai holidays next year.

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Sleeping In a Car Can Be Comfortable
Monday, February 06th, 2012 /

Germany is famous for automobile production and advanced technology and is regarded as a center of the world car industry, so it comes as little surprise the aptly named The V8 Hotel is a dream for car enthusiasts.

Located near Boblingen’s Meilenwerk (the museum of exclusive cars), V8 Hotel was created with a motoring theme. While appointing the hotel, designers used genuine automobile accessories to make rooms look more realistic. In total, the hotel comprises of 34 rooms, but 10 of them stand out from the others.

  • One room is called “Autokino”, where a Cadillac dating from the 70s forms the bed, a selection of films from the era are available and the ceiling and walls create the illusion of a starry night.
  • Another room resembles a car-wash, complete with the large rotary brushes. Guests sleep in the Mercedes which is depicted as leaving the car-wash. The TV in this room is installed in the trunk of the car.
  • Every car enthusiast has a garage. This hotel is no exception. The room-garage, called “Werkstaff”, is fitted with wrenches, tires, spare parts of automobiles and many other tools, needed to look after your favorite car. Do not be surprised to see the legs of a mechanic sticking out from under your car, converted to a comfortable bed.
  • Need to fuel up your car? Do it with the help of “Tankstelle”, a petrol station and a room at the same time. Here you are offered all services, available at a 24-hour petrol station. The design of this room corresponds to that of a petrol station.
  • Many car owners see their vehicle as an expression of their personality and so try to personalize it or make it more advanced and up-to-date. The tuning room is appointed with high-quality materials, leather and rich fabrics and allows guests to upgrade their cars, using wider tyres, rear spoilers and twin-exhausts.
  • The hotel doesn’t ignore motorcycle fans, offering the room, “Route 66”, where parts of motocycles, natural leather and a giant panorama wall create the conditions of feeling the wind streak through your hair while racing on Route 66.
  • Formula 1 drivers’ photos adorn the wall of the Racing room as well as a real winners’ podium giving an extra air of excitement for all motorsport fans. The bed is decorated with tyres, copies of cups and black-and-white flags complete the style.
  • The rooms “Vision”, “Nostalgie” and “Camp” are also infused with a car theme.

Prices start from EUR130 per night and do not include breakfast, however you can order it at EUR15 per day. The hotel includes also standard rooms and suites, however the ten theme rooms are the most popular in the property. So if you are going to spend a night sleeping in a car, do not forget to book The Hotel V8  in advance.

By Svetlana Malukha, who is part of the team of writers as hotel reservation website Booked.net which lists hotels from across the globe, to book V8 Hotel follow this link.

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How To Save Money on Your Winter Vacation
Wednesday, January 18th, 2012 /

The sky is overcast, the trees are bare, and you’d love to escape the winter blahs with a little vacation. Many others have the same idea in the cold months, driving up prices at popular destinations. With a little planning and some flexibility, however, you can get a great deal this winter.

1. Think big when it comes to airports.

Greater airport traffic equals lower prices. If you’re going skiing, choose a resort near a major international airport. The Salt Lake City International Airport has several hundred flights arriving each day and inexpensive airline prices. Salt Lake City also has ski resorts. On the other hand, if you choose an out-of-the-way ski chalet in Colorado, you may be stuck having to change planes to board a regional carrier, driving up your ticket price.

2. Choose your budget, and then choose your destination.

If you don’t have a set destination in mind, you’re free to pick the least expensive one. Instead, decide what type of environment you’re looking for, such as a snow-covered mountain for winter sports, a beach to take long walks, or a glitzy casino. Then find the best deals.

3. Rent your gear.

Airlines are charging increasingly exorbitant fees for checked items. Compare the airline’s price for bringing your skis or other equipment versus renting them at your destination.

4. Ask about package deals.

If you plan to participate in skiing or other activities, you may find that an all-inclusive deal costs less than paying for everything a la carte.

5. Consider half-day ski lessons.

Half-day lessons cost far less than full-day, and a half-day may be all that you need. This leaves the rest of the day to spend skiing with your family or friends.

6. For ski vacations, consider staying in town.

You always pay a premium for being right on the slopes, and the close proximity may not be necessary. Nearby hotels typically have shuttle buses that run to and from the ski areas.

7. Pack a sack lunch.

Ski-lodge food tends to be pricey because the resort has a captive audience. If you pack a sack lunch and stow it in your locker, you can save a lot of money.

8. Ski early or late in the season
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It is usually cheaper, and an added bonus is that you will spend less time waiting in line and fighting crowds.

9. Consider making a house-sitting or rental deal with a snowbird.

When choosing a ski resort, think outside the box. Northern states such as Michigan have both ski slopes and residents itching to spend the winter in Florida. Investigate ski locations in these areas and check out house-sitting and rental options nearby. Individual home owners may be especially eager to negotiate a bargain price rather than miss out on the income altogether.

10. Consider multi-day packages.

If you’re skiing on multiple days, find out if you can save by purchasing a multi-day lift ticket ahead of time.

11. Don’t be afraid to bargain.

With the economic downturn, vacations have been one of the first budget items that families cut. As a result, many vacation spots are struggling. Ask to speak to a manager about discounts or package deals.

12. Go to a traditionally summer destination.

Vacations spots on the Mediterranean such as Italy, Monaco and Cyprus cost less money and may feel almost balmy to someone used to blizzards. Another plus is the absence of crowds in museums and other attractions.

13. Go to an off-season beach.

Tropical beaches are pricey in the winter, but if you just enjoy walking on a windswept beach without getting into the water, tropical weather may not be necessary. Instead, consider a beach vacation in a location with a moderate winter climate. South Florida vacations will be sky-high during the winter, but if you travel to northern Florida or southern Georgia islands like Amelia Island, Saint Simon’s Island or Jekyll Island, you will find prices cut in half. Winter weather is mild in these areas.

14. Plan a last-minute week in Vegas.

If you’re thinking about a spontaneous Las Vegas vacation, check hotel prices for the week between Christmas and New Years’ Eve. New Year’s Eve itself is a peak time, but hotel business can be slow after Christmas. Hotels often won’t give discounts until the last minute, so be prepared to be flexible.

15. Get your airline ticket in advance over the Internet.

No matter where you go, buy your tickets well before Thanksgiving or Christmas since prices climb steeply in the weeks leading up to these holidays.

If you decide on travelling out of country, be sure that your car insurance policy complies with local regulations.  Sites like Kanetix can help you compare quotes in a snap!

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Taking A Budget Cruise – How You Can Get The Best Deals
Thursday, December 22nd, 2011 /

Vacationing is a bit more difficult now with the economy being the way it is, but taking a budget cruise can help you in many different ways. There are many ways to save money on your cruise vacation and some are better than others. You need to know how you can make your trip more affordable because taking a cruise is a necessary for everybody.

The first thing you can do to help you save money on your cruise is shop online. Online cruise deals are great for saving a hundred or more dollars on your cruise. Many travel websites offer great deals making it easy for taking a budget cruise. These deals will be for both family cruises and for cruises for adults.

The second way to save on your cruise is to choose a port close to you. If you are from the northern area of the United States this will be a bit difficult. However, you can choose the port that you can get the best flight deal for. Some airlines will give you very cheap deals on flights and this can help you save a significant amount of money when taking a budget cruise.

Finally, if you really want to save money on your cruise you can take a last minute cruise. There are many places you can get a last minute cruise from and if you can travel on a week or two notice, you can save a significant amount of money. Cruise ships need to fill up before they leave and they will deeply discount empty rooms right before the ship is scheduled to leave.

Some of your Choices for Taking a Budget Cruise

There are many ports in Florida and in California, but the port that seems to be forgotten about the most is in Galveston, Texas. This port is one of the best choices for taking a budget cruise because it is not as commercialized as the Miami port or other ports cruise ships leave from. You may be able to find the best possible deal out of Galveston and you can fly into Houston, if necessary.

The Galveston cruise port has been serving the area for over 20 years and offers cruises from Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Princess Cruise line, and even Disney will be adding a ship in 2012. There are many choices from a 3-day cruise to a 16-day cruise to Spain. Most of the voyages are between 5 and 8 days long with 2 to 3 ports of call.

You can travel to destinations in the Caribbean, on the coast of Mexico, to the Bahamas, and even to Spain. Key West is another short little stop with some of the cruises leaving from Galveston, but it is only on the itinerary of a couple of ships. It is best to take a Caribbean cruise because they will hit the best destinations for the lowest prices.

 

Take a good hard look at the Galveston cruise port before taking a budget cruise. This could be the best deal you can find and with many low cost airlines flying into Houston, you may be able to get the best price on your package.

Taking a Budget Cruises – What Can You Expect?

Every ship is a bit different, but you can always expect plenty of things to do aboard the ship and when you dock. There are many shore excursions and they vary with each trip. You will, most likely, have the chance to enjoy a casino, many great restaurants and bars, shows galore, and many activities for the children.

If you are taking a family cruise, you will want to make sure you choose one of the family boats. There are a couple that leave the Galveston port and specifically work to give families the best opportunity to have a great time aboard the ship. When taking a budget cruise make sure to look at all the details of the boat you will be on.

Benjamin Ehinger is well traveled and has taken many of the cruises offered from the Galveston, Texas port. His recommendations come from personal experience. If you want to discover more about the Galveston Cruises visit his website here: www.CruisesGalveston.net

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5 Of The World’s Most Amazing Sunsets
Monday, December 19th, 2011 /

When it comes to traveling and seeing different parts of the world, there is nothing like seeing the sunset in different cities and countries. Though every country will share the same sun, it seems like each place will have a different and unique sunset; from deep red sunsets across a placcid ocean to the serene beauty of the sun setting in the mountains.

There are plenty of cities and vacation spots out there that are wonderful to visit in thier own right, but if like me you are looking for the best sunsets in the world, here are my top 5 for you to consider.

San Francisco

San Francisco is arguably the prettiest place in the world. The bay is the perfect place to be at while the sun is setting and the fog is coming to rest. The city is full of tourist spots and if you ever have time to visit the city, a visit to Ocean Beach is needed to be able to witness the prettiest sunset that you will ever witness.

Sydney

This city in Australia is certainly know for their wonderful views and so you should certainly think about visiting Sydney on your next vacation. Sydney is famous for their beaches and so you should visit Manly Beach to see the sunset.

Miami

Miami has perfect long beaches and sunny weather. You can sit at a cafe in an evening and admire the perfect, unbroken sunset amidst the twinkle of lights as they light up the shoreline along the bay – this sun set is about the whole experience and it really couldn’t be any more chilled out than this.

Manila

This is a surprise on the list because not too many people know much about the city in the Philippines. Taking a stroll by the Mall Of Asia will let you see one of the best sunsets in the world. This sunset is made special by the humid hot air which creates an incredible red hue making this one of the most romantic sunsets you will ever see.

Hawaii

If you do a Google image search for “beautiful sunset” there is a good chance that you will see a fair few photos from Hawaii, when the landscape is even and un-spoiled and the sea is clean and calm you can enjoy the sunset in all it’s glory surrounded by perhaps one of the most beautiful spots on earth.

Whether you are planning an incredible vacation or simply looking for an inspiring desktop background you need to check all these places out. You will soon realise that although the sun is constantly setting somewhere in the world no two sun sets are ever the same.

This article was written by Alex from holiday365 – thanks for reading.

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Safari, So Good!
Saturday, December 17th, 2011 /

Grey weather, grey walls and quite often grey hair to go with it.  The ceaseless dirge of the daily routine can reduce life to one monotone grind.

Admit it, most of the time we’d rather be anywhere but stuck halfway down the to-do list of commuting to the office, meeting deadlines and tackling a school run.   Faced with a grim case of trolley rage in the BOGOF (buy one get one free) aisle of your local supermarket, don’t you yearn for a tall, dark stranger to sidle up to you with his genie’s lamp? Hey presto, three wishes later and you’re away!

If you’re nodding vacantly in agreement, I’m with you.  It’s an early symptom of ‘lack of holiday-itis’.  So if, like me, your well-meaning friends constantly regale you with tales of adventures and endless slide shows of their safari holidays – well, if you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em.

For the unadventurous amongst us, the closest we’ve got to a safari may be a theme park somewhere in the vicinity of the West Midlands. On a grey day – naturally – you venture out with your packed lunch, flask and umbrella and sit helplessly in your car, all doors locked as monkeys dismantle wing mirrors and chew off your aerial.  And don’t hold out any hope of saving your windscreen wipers.

It may come as a shock to you if you fall into this category, but safaris have actually evolved in recent years.

If your impression of Africa is based on that old TV favourite, Daktari, you have two problems.  Firstly, don’t admit you are old enough to remember it and secondly, please don’t reminisce about Clarence the cross-eyed lion. Your friends, your children… they wouldn’t get it, I promise you. I know.

Do you fancy yourself as a bit of a Robert Redford – or Meryl Streep – in Out of Africa? A trip to Kenya to see the herds of wildebeest and zebra in the Masai Mara is for you.  You may spot a few hippos in the River Mara or even a black rhino safely in the distance.  Visit the gorillas in their mountain habitat but watch out for the Nile crocodiles, unless your surname is Dundee.

On the other hand, if Dumbo is your earliest memory of exotic animals, try an elephant safari. These majestic yet endangered creatures exhibit more loyalty and affection than many humans. You can’t fail to be inspired by them. Never mind an elephant walk, take an elephant ride and see the world from a completely different perspective.

Safaris aren’t exclusive to the African continent.  For something slightly more sedate, a trip to deepest Borneo with its tropical rainforests and cave tours may appeal.  While you’re there, don’t miss the orang-utan sanctuaries. Some will even let you adopt one, although that doesn’t stretch to taking them home, yet. Take a chance to get up close and personal with these elusive apes.

Failing all that, for those of you who prefer The Life and Times of Grizzly Adams to Clarence the lion, have you thought about a bear watching holiday? From the Arctic to Europe, polar bears to grizzlies, there are options to suit all tastes.

Heard enough yet?  It’s time to stop soaking up the daily grey and start searching for those adventure holidays with a difference.

Just a final note of caution.  If the aforementioned lamp carrying man does appear out of nowhere as you ponder a BOGOF deal that you might actually use, well, as the saying goes, be careful what you wish for.  It may come true!  Or to put it another way, you are probably off your trolley….

Kate is an avid traveller with a passion for safaris

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Restaurant Guide for Montville in QLD
Saturday, December 17th, 2011 /

Just twenty minutes from the famous Australia Zoo in Queensland, Montville is a small scenic town in the hinterland of the Sunshine Coast not far from rainforest walks like the Sunshine Coast Hinterland Great Walk. The best-known natural landmark in the area is Kondalilla Falls. Then, for water sports, the nearby reservoir of the Baroon Pocket Dam provides a place for boating, fishing and other outdoor fun. The resort town of Montville has parks, the Maleny Cheese Factory and a charming Main Street. Those enjoying the town and area can try one or more of its fine restaurants.

Gypsy’s Table

Located on Main Street of Montville, the Gypsy’s Table serves a wide variety of cuisines from international to vegetarian. Fresh and steamed, menu items such as these are attractively presented, steamed rice covered with avocado and seafood. Main dishes are fabulous from duck, goat and venison. The casual dining provides plush sofas and comfortable chairs around tables in a charming dining area inside and lovely garden dining outdoors. Servers and other staff members are cheerful and helpful.

Montville Pub

 

A cafe grille and pub with a beautiful outdoor beer garden, the Montville Pub is known for its contemporary take on fresh and local cuisine serving delicious steak and fish. Seafood platters including calamari are a specialty. The dining atmosphere is casual and friendly, a great place to meet with friends over a good meal. The service is well above and beyond the necessary.

Poets Cafe

Serving breakfast and lunch on Main Street and open on weekends for dinner with live music, the Poets Cafe has an atmosphere much like a European cafe. The establishment is perfect for stepping in for a cup of hot chocolate or coffee as well as for pleasant dining. The cafe and grounds are attractive and well maintained with trees for shade. Reservations are recommended for the perfect dining experience.

Spicers Clovelly Estate – The Long Apron

A lovely and picturesque estate, the grounds and facilities are exquisite. A dining room and cellar serve guests and the public. The cuisine is quintessentially Australian with a Mediterranean and international flair with such items as Black Angus sirloin steak, lamb with goat cheese mouse and salmon with Tasmanian wasabi. The fine-dining restaurant is under the direction of Chef Cameron Matthews. Many fresh foods come right from his kitchen garden.

Wild Rocket & Misty’s

Located right on Main Street, Wild Rocket & Misty’s serves up the best of local cuisine fresh from farms. Some of the specials include duck, calf livers and rib eye Scotch fillet. The restaurant will take reservations and walk-ins are also welcomed. The eye-catching and homey feel of the dining room includes white table cloths and a shiny wood floor. The dining area is spotless and outdoor dining is available on the veranda. The restaurant is wheelchair accessible.

Samantha is an Australian travel writer with a love for Queensland and Montville in particular. She recommends spending time in one of the exclusive Montville accommodation properties available as a great way unwind from the stresses of life and get some much needed rest and rejuvenation.

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Whitstable Oyster Festival
Thursday, December 15th, 2011 /

Not only does July 25th herald the start of the English oyster season, but it is also the day when Whitstable Bay’s small fishing community celebrate their most famous commodity. This unique award winning festival is built around traditional celebrations of Whitstable’s oyster and fishing industry. Whilst retaining the “Oyster” title the festival now has a wider theme in its celebration of Whitstable. Many varied events take place including the “Landing of the Oysters”, wonderful exhibitions, jazz concerts, guided walks and talks as well as the now traditional Mud Run.

The English oyster season officially begins on 25th July, a day also known as St. James’ Day, Grotto Day and St. Christopher’s Day – feasts that are of great importance to fishermen and small fishing communities in England. The history of Whitstable’s oysters, which the Romans consumed in colossal quantities, is told in the local history museum on the High Street. Numerous local events take place in England during the oyster season.

The Saints

Jesus asked James the fisherman to become one of his disciples. He preached alongside St. John and was martyred in Jerusalem in A.D. 43. He is buried at Santiago de Compostella in Spain, where pilgrims once carried scallop shells as drinking vessels on their journey. Shell grottoes are traditionally built in his honour.

Little is known about St. Christopher, the patron saint of travellers, and the origin of his association with this date is unclear. He was martyred in Asia Minor, possibly in the 5th century, as a Turkish church in Bithynia was dedicated to him around 450 A.D.

Back to Whitstable

On St. James’s Day the waters at Whitstable are formerly blessed in a ceremony held at the sea’s edge. The occasion is organised by the Association of Men of Kent and Kentish Men with St. Peter’s Church supplying the clergy and choir for the service. Many people now go to watch the blessing as Whitstable has become a popular seaside resort with a shingle beach and yachting centre. At low tide it is possible to walk out along a finger of shingle called ‘the Street’, which juts out for a mile or so into the sea. During the Middle-Ages it was also an important stopping place for pilgrims walking to Canterbury, which is only 7 miles (11km) southwest of the town.

Head for the working harbour or the beach and some sea-going spectaculars, whether it’s the International Water-ski Championship, or the more traditional Thames Barge Regatta. With so much to see in Canterbury, Herne Bay and Whitstable, take care not to overlook the surrounding countryside (arguably the most beautiful in this part of England) and the wealth of charming villages, each with its own fascinating history. Visit them by car, bicycle or on foot, by following one of the numerous – and well signposted – walks, tours and trails available.

Sample home-cooked food and a pint of locally-brewed Shepherd Neame beer at one of the authentic village pubs in Littlebourne or Wickhambreaux; visit the former port of Canterbury, Fordwich, with its timbered town hall and medieval ducking-stool; or spend some time in Harbledown, scene of one of Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales. East Kent buses serve most of the district’s villages.

Canterbury is always full of life and excitement

With an international arts festival, two theatres, first class cricket and countless other events, it’s the perfect place to take a short break at any time of the year. In Spring, modern-day pilgrims parade in a medieval carnival and fete. In Summer, if you’re not joining in with Herne Bay’s Festival of Seaside Fun, then the famous Oyster Festival at Whitstable is the place to be. In Autumn, the Canterbury Festival takes place – a mix of opera, concerts, plays, events and the promise of a spectacular pageant. And come Christmas, after a day’s shopping in the festive bustle of the city streets, there’s nothing quite like the peaceful perfection of a candle-lit carol concert in the great Cathedral.

About Oysters

Oysters are low in fat and high in minerals, containing phosphorus, iodine and zinc, the latter apparently helping to increase male sperm and testosterone levels.

Samet Bilir writes about technology trends, book reviews, holiday shopping and a lot of other things, such as Coby digital photo frames. To read more articles from him click here.

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