Courchevel for Luxury Skiers

Living up to its nickname as the “St Tropez of winter sports”, Courchevel, in the magnificent Les Trois Vallées region of France (the largest ski network in the world) has all the glitz and glamour befitting a favourite celebrity hangout. Although it’s officially been rebranded, most people still know the four satellite villages that comprise the resort by their elevations: Courchevel 1330, 1550, 1650, and 1850. Nothing’s done in halves here, from the luxury shopping to the six-star hotels (yes, it’s a thing) and Michelin-starred restaurants – even the pistes seem to have that little bit more of a shine.

Châtel

Châtel – For an Authentic French Ski Break

Part of the vast Portes du Soleil ski area, the picture-perfect village of Châtel sits on the French/Swiss border and enjoys a reputation as one of the most authentic resorts in the Alps. With its panoramic mountain scenery, chocolate-box Alpine chalets and charming traditional Haute-Savoie ambience, Châtel maintains a very different feel to the more touristy resorts of the Portes du Soleil. For those looking for a very “French” French Alps experience, this delightfully unpretentious village is just the ticket. A Charming Village Because it’s a genuine working village and not a purpose-built ski resort, Châtel doesn’t have the manufactured feel

Alpe d’Huez – A Great Resort for Beginner Skiers

Encompassing altitudes between 1,250 – 3,330 metres, Alpe d’Huez is part of the magnificent Grandes Rousses Massif region in the French Alps. With its varied terrain, it is renowned as one of the best resorts in the Alps for beginner skiers, and its excellent slopes are complemented by consistent snow conditions and superb facilities. Comprising eight small resorts – Huez Village, Outarts, Jeux, Cognet, Eclose Est, Eclose Ouest, Viell Alpe and Bergers – and encompassing 249 kms of slopes, Alpe d’Huez provides a well-connected, diverse ski area, ideal for newbies to get their first snow legs and build confidence. You don’t

Avoriaz

Best Ski Resort for Families: Avoriaz

Avoriaz was awarded Best Family Resort in the World Snow Awards in London in 2013 and it’s still a fabulous choice for a stress-free and fun family ski holiday for parents and children of all ages. Part of the Portes du Soleil ski area, Avoriaz combines the best of the region’s snow with a car free, relaxed village that caters to family groups. We look at some of the main reasons why this ski resort could be exactly what you’re looking for yourselves and your kids.

Lituania

Country Profile: Lithuania

Nestled between Poland, Latvia and Belarus with the Baltic sea on the west coast; Lithuania is the southernmost of the Baltic States and a nature lover’s paradise. Although relatively small, Lithuania boasts dense and vast woodland, a stunning and unique coastline and a vibrant and scenic capital city – Vilnius.

Israel

Country Profile: Israel

As the world’s oldest travel destination, from the enduring pilgrims of the Jewish, Muslim and Christian faiths to the sun-worshipping holidaymakers that flock to the Red Sea coastline, nowhere can invoke quite the kind of emotion as Israel. A melting pot of influences existing as its own microcosm of culture, cuisine and religion, the country’s appeal is extraordinary – encompassing sites as diverse as the vast, raw Makhtesh Ramon canyon, the magnificence of the Masada stronghold and the vibrant contemporary culture of Tel Aviv. What to Do For religious pilgrims, Jerusalem’s Holy City is usually the first port of call,

Rijeka

Rijeka Shore Excursions

Located right in the very north of the Adriatic Sea, Rijeka is Croatia’s largest port and 3rd largest city. Its position and deep-water harbour has made it a much sought after destination amongst the powers of that region throughout history and to this day it is shipbuilding and sea transport which are the key elements of the local economy.

Portes du Soleil

Ski Area Profile: Portes du Soleil

Overview of Ski Area Portes du Soleil (“Gateway to the Sun”) is one of the largest skiing areas in the world, with 650km of piste which links 14 charming and distinctive villages straddling the French-Swiss border. As a result of its size, this is a ski area which is suited to families, beginners, intermediates and experts alike. With villages in both Switzerland and France, you will find that the resorts vary greatly and each has their own unique character. They all boast spectacular views, and plenty of dining options and facilities to keep you entertained away from the slopes. On

Hungría

Country Profile: Hungary

With an exotic elegance that stems from myriad cultural influences over the centuries, Hungary sits at the centre of Europe in a dichotomy of old and new, tradition and sophistication. From the timeless grandeur of Budapest, to the bucolic charms of the southwest wine growing regions along the Danube and the vast natural beauty of its national parks, the country reveals an astonishing depth of culture right from the outset. What to Do For lovers of history and culture, the storied capital, Budapest, conveys its heritage through its Baroque, neo-classical and Art Nouveau architecture, the spectacular Buda Castle, and its

Cádiz

Going Back in Time in Cádiz, Spain

Despite not boasting the same reputation as some of the major historical European cities, such as Rome, Paris and Prague, Cádiz has huge cultural and historical importance. It is a place that I can’t recommend highly enough for any discerning traveller who yearns to discover more about the incredible past that was both endured and enjoyed by the Spanish people. Close to Seville, you can always combine a trip to both cities. Read more about Seville here. A Brief History of Cádiz Believed to be the oldest city in Europe, Cádiz was thought to have been founded by the Phoenicians

Pula

Pula Shore Excursions

In the very north of Croatia’s Adriatic coast is a heart-shaped piece of land known as the the Istrian Peninsula. It has a land border with Slovenia to the north and a sea border with Italy to the west. The region is home to the beautiful coastal towns of Pula, Rovinj Porec and Umag whilst the forested interior, dotted with hilltop villages, has led to the travel brochures referring to it as ‘the New Tuscany’.

Bugibba

A Cracking Boys’ Holiday in Bugibba

When it’s that time of year again for the annual lads’ holiday, no doubt you will be imagining escaping the ever-increasing reminder that winter is around the corner. Instead you will be thinking about enjoying a week in the sunshine with your mates, a few drinks and no responsibilities. If relaxing and getting stuck into some serious sunbathing, a little water sport activity and perhaps a sampling of the local beverages is on your agenda, then the Maltese resort of Bugibba is high on my list of places to recommend. Interesting Read: Malta: Country Profile There is so much to

Benidorm

Three Exciting Theme Parks for Kids in Benidorm

As a mum myself, I am well aware of how important family holidays are and how difficult they can be to get just right, but for any family with young kids Benidorm is one of the best destinations in my book. Very much set up for family fun, this resort has plenty of attractions, including 3 fantastic theme parks that will keep you and your little ones occupied for hours. Recommended read: Top Benidorm Attractions With combination tickets for two or all three parks on offer, you can make a great saving. Prices are given here. Terra Mítica If you

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