Articles by R. Ritchie on ArticleSnatch.com

Perugia's Unforgettable Umbrian Jazz Festival

Mon, 18 Jun 2007 00:00:00 -0400

Every July, Perugia hosts the Umbria Jazz Festival, one of the most popular jazz events in Europe. And every year since 1973, this beautiful medieval hill city has drawn thousands of music lovers, young and old, from all over the world, to play and hear all styles of jazz. Local performers get a chance to jam with the experts and the streets are filled with people carrying instruments to concerts and music sessions. Along with the indoor paid-entrance venues, the festival offers many outdoor concerts free to the public a generous offer that makes a visit to this festival much less expensive that it might otherwise be. From the middle of the day until late at night, you'll be entertained by top quality musical performances. These can be found along the Corso Vannucci and in the Piazza IV Novembre the city's historic main square as well as the public gardens, known as the Giardini Carducci. The streets are still crowded well after midnight, with appreciative music fans enjoying impromptu concerts and singing, dancing, eating and drinking. The best jazz can be heard in two magnificent opera houses, the 18th-century Teatro Morlacchi, and Teatro Pavone, dating from the 19th-century. **End Summary** Topics: villas in Umbria]]> Umbria vacation rentals]]> quality villas Umbria]]> holidays Umbria]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Rod Ritchie writes for many publishers including AA Publishing and Fodors. Cottages to Castles offer high quality Umbria villas and Umbria vacation rentals.

Basilicata The Last Undiscovered Region Of Italy

Mon, 18 Jun 2007 00:00:00 -0400

The southern Italian region of Basilicata borders on Campania to the west, Puglia (Apulia) to the east, and Calabria to the south, and has a short coastline on the Tyrrhenian Sea and another on the Gulf of Taranto in the Ionian Sea to the southeast. While it's not the first place you might think of for a holiday in Italy, the region has a special charm that is slowly being discovered by visitors who are keen to get away from the more touristy parts of Italy. Basilicata offers stunning arid mountain scenery and inland villages, perched on the hills, where time seems to have stood still. On the coast there are charming villages and seaside resorts such as Lido di Metaponto, with its archaeological relics, Marina di Pisticci, Lido di Scanzano, and Lido di Policoro. Remains of the Roman Era can be seen in Venosa along with medieval art. Basilicata is divided into two provinces: Potenza and Matera. Matera and the sassi In Matera, the Ridola National Museum holds Paleolithic relics and ceramics that date back to the Neolithic, Bronze and Iron ages. **End Summary** Topics: villas in Italy]]> Italian vacation rentals]]> quality villas Italy]]> holidays Italy]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Rod Ritchie writes for many publishers including AA Publishing and Fodors.

Discover The Ã¢â¬ËHidden' Tuscany

Mon, 18 Jun 2007 00:00:00 -0400

A holiday in Tuscany is everyone's dream, but if you want to experience the charm of rural Italy, without the crowds, head for Lunigiana, in the northwest. Often referred to as the ˜hidden' Tuscany, of course it has in no way been hidden from the locals or discerning travellers. And it would be fair to say that away from the surrounds of Florence and Siena, the people are more welcoming and less jaded by visitors. Bordered by high mountains and the sea, the hills and valleys are perfect for hiking, with cascading waterfalls and streams, chestnut and European oak, and mountain crags topped with ruined fortresses. The region is dominated by the impressive, rounded Appennine Mountains, as well as the distinctively jagged Apuan Alps that rise near the Tyrrheanian Sea and run almost parallel with the coastline, from the Appennines to the countryside around Lucca. Various kinds and qualities of marble are found in the Alps, and at the Parco Naturale delle Apuane you can see the remains of ancient marble quarries. Medieval villages are tucked into hillsides, and over 100 castles remain as a reminder of the wealth and power that is part of the history of the region. **End Summary** Topics: Tuscan villas]]> Tuscany vacation rentals]]> quality villas Tuscany]]> holidays Tuscany]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Rod Ritchie writes for many publishers including AA Publishing and Fodors.

The 10 Best Golf Courses In South Africa

Tue, 05 Jun 2007 00:00:00 -0400

South Africa's courses offer some of the world's best golfing and the climate is ideal for golf year-round. Many of the courses have featured on both the European PGA Tour, as well as the local Sunshine Tour. Compiling a list of the top ten courses will be contentious, but here goes. Arabella Country Club Host to the Nelson Mandela Invitational since 2003, and designed by Pete Matkovich, this Western Cape course was ranked among the top 100 best courses in the world, outside of the United States. Bordering a large natural lagoon, this demanding course stretches over rolling fairways, and has deceptive bunkers and tricky water traps. Durban Country Club The host of 16 South African Open Championships, this prestigious 18-hole, par 72 course has the honour of having three of its holes listed in the top 500 holes in world golf. The course undulates along the coastline, not far from the Indian Ocean, and wind variations will have a big effect on your game. Fancourt Hotel Country Club Located on the picturesque southern Cape, at the foot of the imposing Outeniqua Mountains, the four courses here have something to suit all types of golfer. **End Summary** Topics: golf breaks]]> golf holidays]]> golf tours]]> golfing breaks]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Rod Ritchie writes for many publishers including AA Publishing and Fodors. Bill Goff Golf Tours and Longshot Golf Holidays offer great value golf breaks to many European and worldwide destinations.

Where To Play Golf In Europe's Winter

Tue, 05 Jun 2007 00:00:00 -0400

Europe's winter can be down time for less intrepid golfers, and many avoid the winter chill and opt for a golfing holiday in southern destinations. Whether it's a trip to the nearby Canary Islands or Cyprus, or a longer journey to Mauritius, a relaxing game of golf in the sunshine is the perfect antidote to the winter blues. Just imagine, in just a few hours you could be on a green with the sun on your back. Cyprus offers golf and more Cyprus is one of the most beautiful islands in the Mediterranean and its warm climate makes golfing a pleasure year-round. Scenic pine-clad mountains and a stunning coastline form a backdrop to its excellent golf courses. If you fancy a touch of luxury, stay at the Paphos Amathus Beach Hotel and you'll have good access to the island's 3 golf courses as well as the charming old town of Paphos. The many local vineyards offer wine tasting and there are excellent dining options outside of the hotel. The oldest course in Cyprus, the Tsada Golf Club, with its undulating, natural fairways, runs through fruit orchards and vineyards. **End Summary** Topics: golf breaks]]> golf holidays]]> golf tours]]> golfing breaks]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Rod Ritchie writes for many publishers including AA Publishing and Fodors. Bill Goff Golf Tours and Longshot Golf Holidays offer great value golf breaks to many European and worldwide destinations.

Five Hot New Golf Destinations

Tue, 05 Jun 2007 00:00:00 -0400

There are so many golfing destinations to choose from, but these five hot destinations are attracting lots of interest. Innovative new courses and excellent facilities in Turkey, Cyprus, Tunisia, Argentina, and British Colombia have created excitement in the golfing world. The attractions include a range of challenging courses, all year round golf, and surrounds that are more exotic than more traditional golfing destinations. History, culture and golf on Cyprus One of the most beautiful islands in the Mediterranean, with a warm climate year round, Cyprus has excellent golf courses with challenging greens and fantastic views. The new par 71 Aphrodite Hills course, perched above a beach, is surrounded by protected forest, and is divided in two by a deep ravine. The oldest course on the island, Tsada Golf Club, set 500 metres above sea level, has natural fairways running through old fruit orchards and vineyards. Golfing in Turkey the perfect winter break A golf holiday in the region of Belek, in the south west of Turkey, gives you access to miles of golden-sand beaches and unspoilt natural attractions as well as an exotic national culture. Here are eight excellent courses, many five-star hotels and lots of water sports activities. **End Summary** Topics: golf breaks]]> golf holidays]]> golf tours]]> golfing breaks]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Rod Ritchie writes for many publishers including AA Publishing and Fodors. Bill Goff Golf Tours and Longshot Golf Holidays offer great value golf breaks to many European and worldwide destinations.

The 10 Best Golf Courses In Portugal

Tue, 05 Jun 2007 00:00:00 -0400

Portugal is often regarded as one of the best golf destinations in the world. For such a small country, it has a huge variety of high-quality golf courses, mainly on the Lisbon Coast and in sunny southern Algarve. Choosing the top 10 is always difficult, however the courses listed here all provide a variety of challenges and are set in magnificent surrounds. Great greens in sunny Algarve Central Algarve's premier golfing destination, the Quinta do Lago Estate has two of its four excellent 18-hole courses listed among Europe's top 25 golf courses. These are bounded by the Atlantic Ocean and the Ria Formosa nature reserve, there are 72 holes of challenging golf with immaculate greens. Quinta do Lago South, the original championship course, is still regarded as the best. Just 20 minutes' drive from Faro International Airport, the par 73, 18-hole Vilamoura Old Course has a great variety of holes that include some some steep grades. The course, lined with pines and cork trees, deserves its reputation as one of the best in Europe. Facilities include a driving range and putting green. Vale do Lobo, Portugal's biggest luxury golf and beach resort, has three courses. **End Summary** Topics: golf breaks]]> golf holidays portugal]]> algarve]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Rod Ritchie writes for many publishers including AA Publishing and Fodors. Bill Goff Golf Tours and Longshot Golf Holidays offer great value golf breaks to many European and worldwide destinations.

Discover The Real Costa Brava

Sun, 06 May 2007 00:00:00 -0400

The Costa Brava, part of the coastal region of CataluÃ±a, in the northeast of Spain, extends along 125 km of stunning coastline, from the resort of Blanes, in the south, to the French border. While the region is well known for its big resorts like Lloret de Mar, Tossa de Mar, and Estartit, which cater for mass tourism, there are still many unspoilt and beautiful places to stay. This is especially true along the north of the Costa Brava, where you’ll find places such as Tamariu and CadaquÃ¨s. If you avoid the larger, crowded beaches, you’ll discover many small, charming resorts and villas tucked away in picturesque, whitewashed villages. These are often perched above secluded, scenic coves, and are bounded by wooded hillsides and rolling vineyards – ideal places to stay when exploring this region renown for its extraordinary natural beauty and cultural heritage. The best time to visit the Costa Brava is during May and June, when the resorts and villas are less crowded and temperatures are in the mid 70s. September is also a good time, but the weather can sometimes be rainy. Heading north from Barcelona, you’ **End Summary** Topics: holiday villas on the Costa Brava]]> quality Costa Brava villa]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Rod Ritchie is a travel writer and editor. Solmar Villas offer holiday villas on the Costa Brava. Book quality Costa Brava villas online .

Discover Menorca's Hidden Beaches

Sun, 06 May 2007 00:00:00 -0400

Menorca has around 200 kilometres of coastline, much of it made up of beautiful sandy coves enclosed by rocky headlands. The island has more beaches than Majorca and Ibiza put together, so it is deservedly popular with those looking for a beach holiday. Much of the south of the island, as in Son Bou and Cala en Porter, is a holidaymaker's playground, with long stretches of beach that are popular and crowded in the season, but you can head for Menorca’s more out-of-the-way beaches if you’d rather have more privacy. Even in the south, there are little beaches such as Cala Binibeca, with a small restaurant, and Els Canutells, a small resort close to Cala en Porter. And a 10-minute drive from San Clemente, brings you to Calas Coves where impressive cliffs surround two very small beaches. When you’ve tired of lazing on the beach, there are many interesting caves to discover. Over 100 Bronze Age caves, complete with paintings and carvings, are cut into the cliff overlooking the sheltered bay. At the eastern end of Son Bou can be found the ruins of an early Christian basilica. **End Summary** Topics: holiday villas in Menorca]]> quality Menorca villas]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Rod Ritchie writes for many publishers including AA Publishing and Fodors. Solmar Villas offer holiday villas in Menorca. Book online from a selection of quality Menorca villas .

Majorca Without The Crowds

Sun, 06 May 2007 00:00:00 -0400

This stunning Balearic island, with its classic beaches, mountain scenery, idyllic countryside, and dramatic coastlines, attracts plenty of visitors. Action-packed seaside resorts, such as Magaluf in the southwest corner of the island, host hordes of package-tour holidaymakers, who come to party and be seen on the packed beaches and in the busy nightspots. However, there are plenty of places on Majorca where you can escape the crowds. Deserted sandy coves, where mountains meet the sea, and remote beaches, only accessible by boat or on foot, are perfect for a quiet holiday. In the traditional rural villages, surrounded by olive and almond groves, with their centuries-old monasteries and delightful bars and cafes, you can mix it with the locals and get well away from the crowds. If you’re short of time, you don’t have to head for remote parts of Majorca to escape the masses. Not far from busy Palma, Illetes has two pine-lined coves with beautiful sandy beaches. And in the west of the island, you can follow in the footsteps of poet Robert Graves, who used to take the coastal path across to Lluc Alcari. **End Summary** Topics: holiday villas in Majorca]]> quality Majorca villas]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Rod Ritchie writes for many publishers including AA Publishing and Fodors. Solmar Villas offer holiday villas in Majorca. Book online from a selection of quality Majorca villas .

Art Deco Night-Life In South Beach Miami

Sun, 06 May 2007 00:00:00 -0400

Your Miami Beach vacation would be incomplete without a visit to the glitzy Art Deco District at South Beach. SoBe, as it is called, has the largest stretch of surviving Art Deco architecture in the world. Built between 1923 and 1943, the hundreds of apartment blocks, hotels, restaurants, and shops are impressive by day, but at night the neon signs on Ocean Drive and surrounding streets signal a very active club and bar scene. With over 150 hotspots to choose from, a night on the town can become expensive unless you are very selective. And access to nightclubs is sometimes difficult for non-locals without connections, especially in the high season from mid-November to April. Many SoBe clubs are celebrity hotspots, and the competition from the stars, the ultra chic, and the wannabes can make entry to the coolest places difficult. Bring plenty of money, too, since entry to the more popular nightspots will cost you anything up to $60. You'll need to spend time, too, since entry to the top places often comes with a wait of several hours. **End Summary** Topics: Miami hotels]]> Miami car hire]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Rod Ritchie writes for many publishers including AA Publishing and Fodors. Go America provide great value hotels and car hire all across North America. Book Miami hotels and car hire online.

Classic American Train Journeys – The California Zephyr

Sun, 06 May 2007 00:00:00 -0400

A trip on the California Zephyr, across much of the North American continent, is considered one of the great train journeys of the world. Launched in 1949 and re-launched in 1983, the Zephyr became an American icon as one of the country's earliest transcontinental lines. The train runs from Union Station in Chicago, to Emeryville, near San Francisco in California. This spectacular 3-day journey starts on the plains of Illinois, continues on across the regal Rockies and High Sierras via Denver, and on through the arid Nevada flatlands, ending in California. You can choose a spacious coach seat or reserve a roomette or bedroom in one of the Superliner sleeping cars, depending on your budget. The Dining Car serves full meals in a comfortable setting, and sandwiches, snacks, and beverages are available for purchase at the Cafe Bar. The Sightseer Lounge Car has large picture windows and movies are screened here, including features for children during the summer months. The journey The journey follows the historic trail of gold prospectors and carpetbaggers in the frenetic Gold Rush days. Day 1 passes through charming Illinois farming country, interspersed with quaint rural townships, across the mighty Mississippi River into Iowa. **End Summary** Topics: USA hotels]]> USA car hire]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Rod Ritchie writes for many publishers including AA Publishing and Fodors. Go America provide great value hotels and car hire all across North America. Book USA hotels and USA car hire online.

The Best Florida Resorts For Family Holidays

Sun, 06 May 2007 00:00:00 -0400

Florida has to be one of the very best destinations in the world for family holidays. Florida’s top family resorts have programs designed for children of all ages. Some of the more popular activities are instruction in water sports such as snorkelling, waterskiing, windsurfing and sailing – others offer coaching in tennis and golf. For younger children, the resorts organise special days around a theme, with crafts, activities and games. The programs are often part of your holiday package, but some resorts charge an additional amount per day for each activity. The Northeast Coast Set on lovely Amelia Island, Amelia Island Plantation, covers 1350 acres, with winding roads and paths that meander through natural woodlands. Here you’ll find Kids' Camps, and a Teen Explorers program that offers tennis and golf clinics, arts and crafts, and field trips, plus a highly popular games room. Northwest Coast The giant 2400-acre Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort has many activities for kids: sailing, tennis, kayaking, golf, and the Jolee Island Nature Park with pirate-ship playground. Watersports include body surfing, with complimentary boogie boards. Programs include day and night activities for teens and a water park. **End Summary** Topics: Florida hotels]]> Florida car hire]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Rod Ritchie writes for many publishers including AA Publishing and Fodors. Go America provide great value hotels and car hire all across North America. Book Florida hotels and car hire online.

The 10 Most Beautiful Beaches In Australia

Sun, 06 May 2007 00:00:00 -0400

Australia, the world’s largest island, has some of the best surfing beaches to be found anywhere. Here, visiting the beach is as much a social experience as an opportunity for relaxation and water sports, since the beach is integral to Australian culture. While there will always be disagreement over which of the thousands of beaches are the best, the following selection represents a variety of urban and regional surf beaches that are popular with both surfers and those looking for a fun day on the beach. Noosa Heads, in Queensland, is one of Australia’s best family beaches. Facing north, it is more like an ocean cul-de-sac, with generally gentler surf conditions than might be found on the more open beaches. Just behind the beach is the famous Hastings Street shopping strip. High fashion boutiques, art galleries, and trendy restaurants run along its shopper-friendly pavements, shaded by lush, leafy trees. The Gold Coast’s Burleigh Heads is famous for its pine tree backdrop and great point break surf. The famous Burleigh Barrel, a power-packed tube loved by all surfers is driven by solid swells and prevailing SE winds. Burleigh’ **End Summary** Topics: Australia holidays]]> Australia tours]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Rod Ritchie writes for many publishers including AA Publishing and Fodors. Bon Voyage Travel and Tours provide tailor made Australia holidays and tours for the individual traveler.

Discover The Hidden Thailand

Sun, 06 May 2007 00:00:00 -0400

Thailand is more than Bangkok, Pattaya, Phuket and Chiang Mai. In fact, there are a great many fascinating out-of-the-way places that regular visitors know and love, which you might like to consider adding to your itinerary when you’re planning your next trip to Thailand. About 260 km outside Bangkok, the ancient city of Nakhon Ratchasima, also known by its historical name of Khorat, is famous for its several heritage sites that reveal the roots of traditional Thai culture. Once the gateway to the country’s northeast, the city was a major centre of the vast and influential Khmer kingdom, which stretched across much of Southeast Asia, between the 9th and 15th centuries. Life moves at a relaxed pace here, compared to the main tourist centres. Just south of Nakhon Ratchasima, in a lush river valley, is the delightful market village of Dan Kwain, well known for the fine quality of its ceramics and distinguished by the individuality of its products. Near Nakhon Ratchasima, there are dense forests, mountains, and rivers with spectacular waterfalls. **End Summary** Topics: Thailand holidays]]> Thailand tours]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Rod Ritchie writes for many publishers including AA Publishing and Fodors. Bon Voyage Travel and Tours provide tailor made Thailand holidays and tours for the individual traveler.

Classic Drives The Garden Route, South Africa

Sun, 06 May 2007 00:00:00 -0400

The stunning Garden Route runs from South Africa's most popular tourist destination, Cape Town, for 800 km along the scenic coastline between this city and Port Elizabeth. The area enjoys a Mediterranean maritime climate and the trip is regarded as one of the world's truly classic coastal drives. As you drive along the well-forested coastal plain, you'll find freshwater lakes, lovely lagoons filled with water birds, indigenous forests of giant yellowwood trees and fields covered in colourful wildflowers. It's easy to see why visitors are drawn to this beautiful region year-round. One of the highlights of a drive along the Garden Route is a stop at the sleepy coastal town of Hermanus near the southern-most tip of Africa. The town is situated next to a 12-km path that runs along the cliff top, right next to the ocean. From May to December, pods of Southern Right Whales swim to within 20 metres of the cliff as they travel along the coast. The more adventurous traveller can try some heart-stopping shark cage diving, sea kayaking, abseiling, scuba diving, sand boarding, and paragliding. **End Summary** Topics: Holidays to South Africa]]> South Africa tours]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Rod Ritchie writes for many publishers including AA Publishing and Fodors. Bon Voyage Travel and Tours provide tailor made tours and holidays to South Africa for the individual traveler.

The Best European Golf Destinations For Family Holidays

Wed, 17 Jan 2007 00:00:00 -0500

Golf holidaying with a family presents its own special challenges. Keeping non-golfers in the family happy and feeling like they are having a real holiday, while at the same time getting your fill of golf, is worth that bit of extra travel planning. The following European golf resort holiday destinations are perfect for family holidays. Central Algarve Central Algarve, with its beautiful scenery, perfect weather, and exceptional golf courses, is one of Europe's top golfing destinations. Resorts such as Vilamoura, Quinta do Lago, and Vale do Lobo, and Vilamoura offer much more than golf and will provide non-golfers with all the holiday variety they would expect from a first-class resort. At Quinta do Lago, a 2,000-acre exclusive residential and recreational estate, you have countryside and pine forests, the Atlantic Ocean, and the Ria Formosa nature reserve as your playground, plus 72 holes of golf. Horse riding and tennis as well as a variety of water sports will keep your family occupied during the day, and there are classy restaurants, hip nightclubs for night-time entertainment, as well as the Bourganvilla Shopping Centre and a health club. The stunning two-mile stretch of golden-sand is a bonus. **End Summary** Topics: golf holidays]]> golf breaks]]> golf destinations]]> golfing breaks]]> golf tours]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Rod Ritchie writes for many publishers including AA Publishing and Fodors. Bill Goff Golf Tours and Longshot Golf Holidays offer great value golfing breaks to many European and worldwide destinations.

Ten Top Spanish Holiday Golf Courses

Wed, 17 Jan 2007 00:00:00 -0500

Spain is well known for its stunning golf courses and the country represents great holiday value combined with excellent year-round weather. Golf enthusiasts looking to combine their love of the sport with a perfect holiday destination, could consider these ten top Spanish golf holiday courses. Three Top Costa del Sol Courses In the Eastern Costa del Sol, you'll find the par 72 El Parador the district's oldest course, founded in 1925 by the Spanish Royal family. The course combines parkland with links style holes and is renown for its fast greens. El Parador's 6,824 yards is easy to walk and the course is suitable for all levels, although some holes are challenging, especially when the wind is up. Designer Tom Simpson created the course which has hosted several international events. Challenging par 72 Torrequebrada, designed by Pepe Gancedo, is one of the most beautiful courses on the Costa del Sol. Once host to the Spanish Open, its steep terrain, well-positioned water and sand hazards, and eight doglegs mean the 6409 yards course is technically challenging, especially if your tee-off shot is not accurate. **End Summary** Topics: golf holidays]]> golf breaks]]> golf destinations]]> golfing breaks]]> golf tours]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Rod Ritchie writes for many publishers including AA Publishing and Fodors. Bill Goff Golf Tours and Longshot Golf Holidays offer great value golfing breaks to many European and worldwide destinations.

Kefalonia's Top Beaches

Mon, 18 Dec 2006 00:00:00 -0500

Mountainous Kefalonia, the largest of the Ionian group of islands, is a justifiably popular beach holiday destination. Although the island is dominated by Mount Ainos, and pine-clad hills that run down to the sea, it's the sandy beach coves lapped by the turquoise waters that draw the most visitors. The best way to enjoy the top beaches on Kefalonia is to book your accommodation so that some of the many enchanting beaches are within easy reach. If you arrive by ferry at the capital, Argostoli, head south for the nearby beaches of Makris Gialos and Platis Gialos, which end at the tiny islet of Tourkopodaro. Makris Gialos has an area of sun lounges ideal for soaking up the sun, but there is jetski hire if you feel like being more active. The smaller Platis Gialos is quieter and less developed than its neighbour. Both beaches have bars and you will find a choice of excellent villa accommodation at nearby Lassi. Just a few kilometres further south, the tavernas and fine red sand bring visitors to Avithos. Naturists will find a clothing optional beach at adjoining Ligia. From the shore, you'll see the tiny islet of Dias with its small church. **End Summary** Topics: Zante villa rentals]]> holidays on Zante]]> greek islands]]> holidays in Greece]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> R.Ritchie writes for many publishers including AA Publishing and Fodors.Sunisle Holidays offer a range of quality villas on Kefalonia.Visit Sunisle Greek Holidays at www.sunisle.co.uk for great value Kefalonia villa rentals.

Five Great Zante Excursions

Mon, 18 Dec 2006 00:00:00 -0500

A holiday on Zante (Zakinthos) is a great introduction to the Greek Islands. Friendly people, delicious food and above average accommodation, and a chance to take some interesting island excursions add up to an unforgettable Greek holiday. Zakinthos Town, near the centre of the east coast of the island, is an ideal place to book tours, although most hotels and tour desks can take bookings. To help you plan your Greek island experience, here are five outstanding Zante holiday excursions. Island Jeep Safaris Several operators offer Jeep safaris and they are a fantastic way to see the island's rugged, breathtaking scenery and many of the attractions such as the Blue Caves along the coast. The driver guides are generally knowledgeable and the tour traverses dirt tracks through old olive groves, charming vineyards, and picturesque mountain villages. Tours stop at one of the many beaches where you can cool off with a swim and many towns connect with a boat tour of the Blue Caves. Luncheon stops at local tavernas are a chance to meet the locals. Since you travel with just three to seven other passengers, tour guides are happy to make impromptu stops. **End Summary** Topics: Zante villa rentals]]> holidays on Zante]]> greek islands]]> holidays in Greece]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Rod Ritchie writes for many publishers including AA Publishing and Fodors.Sunisle Holidays offer a range of quality villas on Zante.Visit Sunisle Greek Holidays at http://www.sunisle.co.uk for great value Zante villa rentals.

Corfu's Fabulous Festivals

Mon, 18 Dec 2006 00:00:00 -0500

Arguably one of the most beautiful Greek Islands, the 'Emerald Island' of Corfu is especially popular when its many festivals are in full swing. Although summer is the peak time for festivals in Corfu, there are numerous local celebrations, name days, and religious events that bring colour and charm to a Corfu holiday. If you are planning a holiday in Corfu look out for the following events; Religious themes for Easter On Palm Sunday, a street procession follows the line of the old Corfu town walls, from where Saint Spiridon drove off the plague in 1630. But this is just a precursor to Easter week which is one huge religious festival. The week is a coming together of religious faiths, both Orthodox and Catholic, secular traditions, choral church music, and street processions in delightful spring weather. On Good Friday, churches bring out their funeral biers and parade them around the districts accompanied by orchestras. A biblical earthquake is celebrated the next day, including the dramatic custom where the local people throw pots out of their windows. More music follows and the fervent air of devotion combines with celebration, culminating in an impressive fireworks display. **End Summary** Topics: greek holidays]]> villas on Corfu]]> Corfu villa rentals]]> greek islands]]> greek island holidays]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Rod Ritchie writes for many publishers including AA Publishing and Fodors.Sunisle Holidays offer a range of quality villas on Corfu.Visit Sunisle Greek Holidays at http://www.sunisle.co.uk for great value Corfu villa rentals.

Five SecretÃ¢â¬Â Greek Islands

Mon, 18 Dec 2006 00:00:00 -0500

A Greek Island escape makes the perfect holiday, but with around 1,400 islands in the Greek archipelago, choosing a destination that is not overrun with holidaymakers can be a challenge. While Corfu and Crete are deservedly popular, especially with first-time Greece travelers, here are five ˜secret' Greek islands that should be on your itinerary. Kea Part of the Cyclades, and close to the mainland, laid-back Kea is no secret with the locals who flock here to their weekend retreats. Ferries to Kea leave from Lavrio, a 90-minute bus trip from Athens. Kea has a laid-back atmosphere, good walking trails, and 50 miles of coastline with tiny bays and unspoiled sandy beaches. Ioulidha, has some charming tavernas, while the delightful hill capital of Ioulis, the marina at Vourkari and Otzias Bay are other highlights. Evia Dominated by Mt Ochi, this Greek island ˜secret', is really the second-largest Greek island after Crete. With remote villages nestled in the mountain slopes, connected by stone paths and tracks, it's a walker's delight. But add a captivating coastline, plenty of Roman ruins, old buildings, secluded beaches, and a wide choice of lively tavernas, and you have the perfect holiday ingredients. **End Summary** Topics: greek holiday island]]> greek holidays]]> villa holidays greece]]> holidays on crete]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Rod Ritchie writes for many publishers including AA Publishing and Fodors. Sunisle Holidays offer quality villa accommodation on many Greek islands. Visit Sunisle Holidays at www.sunisle.co.uk for a selection of great value villas in Greece.

The AZ Of Greek Island-hopping

Mon, 18 Dec 2006 00:00:00 -0500

Why holiday on one Greek island when you can plan a trip that includes visits to many? Getting around takes a bit of planning, but you can choose from cruise ships, ferries, yacht charters or air travel. Accommodation options include rental villas, hotels, guest houses and home stays. Listed here by region are 20 of the most popular Greek island destinations. Cyclades Amorgos Rugged Amorgos, the most easterly of the Cyclades islands, has beautiful sandy beaches, a precipitous coastline, peaceful and serene bays and the magnificent Monastery of Hozoviotissa. Tourism infrastructure is rudimentary which this makes for a laid-back charm. Delos First inhabited in 3000 BC, this small island was the religious and commercial centre of ancient Greece. There are no towns or accommodation here, just quietness and a sense of history in the archaeological ruins. Folegandros This small, beautiful island has plenty of accommodation. Its busy port of Karavostassi has an extensive selection of restaurants and hotels, while Cars and motorcycles are banned in the cliff's edge village of Hora. Mykonos This cosmopolitan island, an expensive travel mecca, with unique cycladic architecture, bare hills, narrow alleyways and streets and red-roofed churches, is everything that Greek islands are famed for. **End Summary** Topics: Greek villas]]> greek holidays]]> greek islands]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Rod Ritchie writes for many publishers including AA Publishing and Fodors. Sunisle Holidays offer quality villa accommodation on many Greek islands. Visit Sunisle Holidays at www.sunisle.co.uk for a selection of great value Greek villas.

The Top 10 Greek Holiday Attractions

Mon, 18 Dec 2006 00:00:00 -0500

The stunning natural beauty of bright blue seas, ancient archaeological sites, charming island villages, and a hot, mainly dry climate, make Greece a fantastic holiday destination. Visitors to this Mediterranean idyll with its archipelago of over 1000 islands are faced with such a range of natural and man-made attractions that they have to prioritize their travel plans. While everyone has an idea of what they prefer, let's have a go at defining what might be the top ten places to visit on a holiday to Greece. The Acropolis and the Parthenon The symbol of Athens, the iconic Parthenon sits atop the Acropolis, overlooking the city. The remains of the sacred temple to the Greek godess Athena, the Parthenon, with its simple Doric style, has been copied in public architecture worldwide. Accessed by the Athens Metro, it is always crowded, so try for a visit early mornings or late afternoons. Mykonos Considered over-developed by some, but remaining the most famous of Greek islands, Mykonos attracts international sophisticates and budget travelers alike for its stunning beaches (many clothing optional), its vibrant nightlife, classic shopping, and general holiday ambience. **End Summary** Topics: greek holiday island]]> greek holidays]]> villa holidays greece]]> holidays on crete]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Rod Ritchie writes for many publishers including AA Publishing and Fodors. Sunisle Holidays offer quality villa accommodation on many Greek islands. Visit Sunisle Holidays at www.sunisle.co.uk for a selection of great value Greece villa rentals.

Europe's Best Value Golf Destinations

Mon, 18 Dec 2006 00:00:00 -0500

If you're looking for a golfing holiday, where great value is as important as great golf, then fly to Faro International Airport, rent a car, and drive to southern Portugal and nearby Spain. Some of the best value golfing destinations can be found in Eastern Algarve in Portugal, and in the Spanish regions of Costa de la Luz and Costa del Sol. A budget golf holiday in Eastern Algarve If you're on a budget and looking for a quiet holiday that combines golf and nature, then head for this region. Here you'll find well-planned courses, national parks and a range of budget hotels with seven-night prices from around Â£299 per person. Some of the best value rooms with a sea view can be found at Eurotel Altura, only a 40-minute drive from Faro Airport. The hotel is set right on the beach, close to the Castro Marim golf course, and just three miles from Quinta da Ria Golf Course. In fact, there are four reasonably priced golf courses close by the hotel. Don't be deceived by the sixties exterior the refurbished rooms are well decorated and comfortable. **End Summary** Topics: golf holidays]]> golf breaks]]> golf destinations]]> golfing breaks]]> golf tours]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Rod Ritchie writes for many publishers including AA Publishing and Fodors. Bill Goff Golf Tours and Longshot Golf Holidays offer great value golfing breaks to many European and worldwide destinations.

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