http://www.articlesnatch.com/rss2/directline directline Articles from ArticleSnatch.com Rss Follow Up Fri, 17 Feb 2012 11:42:47 -0500 Make the ultimate romantic gesture and book a trip away to one of the most romantic cities in Europe. With this quick-fire countdown of the continents most romance-laden cities, we can help remove the burden of deciding where to go, making it easier to concentrate on the finer details of your trip. 1.Paris This is the obvious choice and for good reason. A perpetual feel of Valentine's day permeates the air here. Whether its lounging back and watching the world go by in one of the quaint caf AND eacute;s surrounding the Eiffel tower, or shutting out the traffic and walking along the Arc de Triomphe by night, Paris offers the classiest and most indulgent option on this list. 2.Rome For a break that is filled with the iconic and for a little 'La Dolce Vita', head to Rome for the weekend. Rome is ripe for the wondering. Smell the roses as you walk though the flower markets on Campo de' Firori, then stop for an Italian espresso for the ultimate in wake-up calls before learning about the fate of many a gladiator in the Colosseum.Romantic Break]]> Holidays]]> City Breaks]]> Directline]]> Directline City Breaks]]> Romantic Holidays]]> http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Top-5-Romantic-City-Breaks/3492586 Sat, 24 Dec 2011 15:07:13 -0500 http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Top-5-Romantic-City-Breaks/3492586 Half term is approaching and the kids are getting restless. Do you really want a repeat of last year's visits to the local decrepit theme parks and evenings of DVD marathons? Why not do something a little different and in the process open their eyes to a world of travel whilst enjoying time away as a family with a city-break. 1.New York For those who are willing to go a little further afield, maybe you should consider the bold and brash U.S capital? Apart from icons such as The Empire State building and The Statue of Liberty, New York has plenty of attractions to keep your brood happy. Flights are cheaper in the first half of the year and it's well worth it when you can take in so many sights ingrained with great American charm. You could take a stroll through central park, or perhaps visit one of the many child friendly museums such as The Intrepid Sea Air Space Museum or The Natural History Museum filled with hundreds of stuffed beasts and plenty of interactive displays. If you want to see The Statue of Liberty in a different way, take a ride on The Beast;Family Breaks]]> Family Holidays]]> City Breaks]]> Directline Holidays]]> Directline Holidays City Breaks]]> City Holidays]]> Holidays]]> http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Top-5-City-Breaks-For-Families/3435441 Fri, 09 Dec 2011 00:10:26 -0500 http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Top-5-City-Breaks-For-Families/3435441 For a cheap holiday that offers so much, you would struggle to find a better location in Europe than Tenerife. As part of the Canary Islands, Tenerife boasts sun all year-round and has an abundance of luscious green landscapes and all important sandy beaches that come complete with crystal clear seas. The interior of the island is dominated by rocky, volcanic sights providing a startling geographical contrast to the outskirts of the island. Whatever you are looking for, Tenerife is sure to have something that appeals to you. Popular with those looking for world-class night-life as well as a those looking for a quiet week away, there is an abundance of excellent options for all. If you're looking for a lively resort, head for hard-partying Playa de Las Americas. Here you will find an abundance of cheaply priced bars and clubs offering cocktails that are perfect for cheap holiday thrills. Similarly, Los Cristianos is a part of the island that offers a party atmosphere with plenty of clubbing options.Tenerife Holidays]]> All inclusive holidays]]> http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Getaway-To-Sunny-Tenerife/3434586 Thu, 08 Dec 2011 14:11:22 -0500 http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Getaway-To-Sunny-Tenerife/3434586 November - A month of Winter bleakness in England. Dark evenings, freezing cold temperatures and the looming presence of Christmas is most certainly here! But fear not! For there are many short-haul locations where the sun still shines and the temperatures sore, allowing you a last-minute trip perfect for recharging those batteries and preparing yourself for Christmas bliss. Located in the South west of Turkey, this ancient city is packed with both historical tourist attractions and natural beauty. Being the biggest sea resort in the country, you can also expect your Antalya holiday to provide you with heavenly beaches and bathwater-warm seas. Of the two main beaches in Antalya, you will find that the shingle beach of Konyaalti is the most beautiful. It stretches for 7km and is bordered by Antalya's cliffs on one side and the wondrous Beydaglari mountains on the other. You can reach this beach via tram that departs from the town centre, giving you the chance to see a little more of Antalya. If you enjoy seeing the sites on your holiday, then head to the Koprulu canyon. This 400 metre deep ravine is truly impressive.All inclusive holidays]]> Tukey Holidays]]> http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Discover-Antalya-In-November/3410251 Thu, 01 Dec 2011 19:29:59 -0500 http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Discover-Antalya-In-November/3410251 Pulling in over 2million tourists a year, Dalaman is a real Turkish heavy-weight perfect for a low-cost holiday. It's easy to see why when you survey the sheer class and range of beaches this wonderful place has to offer. It is located in the South-West of the country, bordering the Mediterranean sea and near the mountain ranges of Turkey's Denizli Provence. Temperatures are currently at a manageable 22 AND deg;C, making Dalaman an excellent choice for those looking to escape for a beach holiday before the arrival of Christmas! But, which of the many quality beaches in and around Dalaman are the finest? With this quick guide you'll be well prepped for enjoying your holiday to the maximum. Dalaman beach - The main beach is surprisingly unspoilt for such a large resort. Just ten minutes from the resort hub, this beach is perfect for relaxation and there are plenty of sun beds for hire at reasonable rates. Being the main resort beach, you will never be far away from Dalaman's excellent amenities and. Sarigerme beach - With a vast expanse of 4 miles of fine white sand this impressive, rangy beach, is a delight to behold.Dalaman Holidays]]> Turkey holidays]]> directline-holidays]]> http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Top-Beaches-In-Dalaman/3385376 Fri, 25 Nov 2011 05:51:03 -0500 http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Top-Beaches-In-Dalaman/3385376 Madeira is a an island off the coast of Portugal. This underrated gem is fantastic for those looking for a holiday removed from the norm and something a little quieter than many of its brasher, more recognised European counterparts. This beautiful, verdant place is defined by its majestic mountains that are ripe for hiking and the crystal clear waters that surround this picturesque island. If you're a nature lover you will really appreciate the multitude of natural wonders on display. Explore one of the many protected reserves or gardens for colourful flowering fauna and discover why Madeira is often referred to as 'The floating garden of the Atlantic'. You could start your holiday with a trip to the Botanical gardens of Madeira located in Funchal, or the Ponta de Sao Lourenco - a peninsular located on the East of the island that boasts amazing coastal views and a variety of flowering fauna perfect for the botanist in you! If you like to fill your days with long walks, then head to the World heritage site of the Laurel Forest.directline-holidays]]> cheap holidays to spain]]> cheap spain holidays]]> all inclusive holidays]]> http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Places-To-See-In-Madeira/3348660 Wed, 16 Nov 2011 03:09:07 -0500 http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Places-To-See-In-Madeira/3348660 With such a variety of websites and high-street booking agents out there claiming to offer the best priced accommodation, it can be unnecessarily difficult finding a hotel room that offers excellent value for money whilst remaining inhabitable! At first glance a particular offer may seem appealing, but you should ensure that the hotel room that you are about to book has the facilities that you require. The cheapest option may seem like the wisest choice, but you may regret booking when you arrive and find that there is no pool or anywhere to relax. Likewise, you may want to do a lot of sightseeing and sporting activities on your trip which probably means clothes washing and drying facilities would be a necessity. By far the best tip for saving money on your accommodation is to approach the booking process with an open mind. Set yourself a budget and be flexible with where you want to stay. If you are too specific, you will certainly struggle to find good accommodation at reasonable prices. If you are willing to venture to your destination during the off-season then you are more likely to find cheap yet attractive accommodation options.Holidays]]> Travel]]> Money]]> Directline Holidays]]> http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Tips-For-Saving-Money-On-Your-Hotel-Room/3245395 Wed, 26 Oct 2011 11:29:16 -0400 http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Tips-For-Saving-Money-On-Your-Hotel-Room/3245395 So, its coming up to the weekend and you feel like doing something a little different with your well-earned time off. Why not take an hour out of your day and book a quick break away? You'd be surprised at the amount of things you can do in such a small amount of time. A short city break can be just the tonic you need to re-charge your batteries and triumphantly return back to the mundanity of life with added zest! Choosing a city break can be tricky with such an array of options available, so here we present you with a handful of destinations that we believe are the best out there. At just two hours, the flight to Barcelona is bearable enough to spend a weekend away in this richly entertaining city. Head straight for the colourful La Rambla on your first day to soak up the Mediterranean atmosphere. Relax for a couple of hours whilst strolling from one end to the other observing the street artists and assortment of vendors. Next you could visit the sea-life aquarium or the world famous Nou camp for a guided tour, before finishing the day with a traditional Spanish platter.City Breaks]]> Holiday]]> Short Breaks]]> Directline Holidays]]> Directline]]> http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/The-Best-Short-City-Breaks/3119568 Tue, 04 Oct 2011 09:56:50 -0400 http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/The-Best-Short-City-Breaks/3119568 Don't you just hate how visiting your favourite destination in the E.U has become so expensive? Are you missing the good old days when the British pound actually held its own against other currencies and you could stretch your cash that little bit further on holiday? Yep, we do too - that's why we've drawn up this rough guide on other great destinations in Europe that aren't in the E.U, making your money work as hard as it should be on holiday. 1.Croatia: This gem of a country is still relatively untouched by tourism when compared to some of the other holidaying Goliaths, but is one of the more picturesque and interesting options. If you're after a holiday that is filled with adventure, then this is the option for you. It's known as the land of 1,000 islands for good reason, and on your holiday you can expect to take in tranquil mountains, idyllic coastlines and renowned national parks. A trip down the Dalmation coast is a must for sight-seeing activities and car rental is very reasonable. To put Croatian prices into perspective, the average pint is the equivalent of AND pound;2.00...Sold yet? 2.Holiday]]> Directline Holiday]]> Holidays]]> Travel]]> http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/5-Great-Non-eu-Destinations/3106687 Sat, 01 Oct 2011 13:47:47 -0400 http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/5-Great-Non-eu-Destinations/3106687 France's famed capital of love, ooh la-la and sheer, jaw dropping beauty has more than enough to keep you enthralled over a whole series of visits. But if time permits you only to sample a few of the many attractions, here's my suggestions for the top five must-sees in Paris. The Eiffel Tower was only intended to be a temporary structure, but no-one had the heart to dismantle it. Today, it's slender, tapering spire is the city's landmark, standing over a thousand feet above the mad, teeming city below it. From the top, there are heart stopping views in all directions but, if your head for heights does not extend that far, check out the restaurant on the second floor, and savour a glass of wine as you soak in the view. The Champs Elysees is a must see, with the Arc De Triomphe a surprisingly small, delicate focal point for no less than twelve avenues that all converge at its base. The whole area was conceived by Napoleon as part of his plan to make Paris the capital of Europe, and the grand boulevard is lined with sidewalk cafes frequented by smartly dressed locals and tourists alike.City break]]> Holiday]]> Directline Holidays]]> Paris]]> France]]> http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Five-Must-See-Sites-On-A-Paris-City-Break/3088240 Wed, 28 Sep 2011 13:16:11 -0400 http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Five-Must-See-Sites-On-A-Paris-City-Break/3088240 Looking for a cheap weekend away that provides plenty of sights without denting your credit card bill? City breaks can often be expensive but with this helpful guide, we list cities that combine the best of both worlds. 1.Marrakech Budget airlines are currently offering return trips to Morocco's most interesting city for as little as AND pound;50. Once there you can enjoy warm to scorching temperatures and a treasure-trove of wonderful sights. Whether it's Marrakech's famous Square of the Dead or one of it's many century old excavations, Marrakech has plenty to do for those looking for a budget city break that is a little different from the usual. 2.Prague Prague still offers great value for the discerning British tourist. Flights to this Eastern European gem are cheap and food and drink prices are in line with the lowest in the EU. As well as this, you get some of the most astonishing architectural marvels in the whole of Europe and an atmosphere of charm that is reminiscent of a bygone era. 3.Istanbul Turkey's most populous city is also one of its most interesting.directline]]> holidays]]> city breaks]]> weekend breaks]]> http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Top-5-Budget-City-Breaks/3068271 Sun, 25 Sep 2011 09:19:58 -0400 http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Top-5-Budget-City-Breaks/3068271 If you're travelling to a far-flung destination this Summer you will already know that before the pampering and relaxation can start you need to survive the ordeal of the dreaded long-haul flight first. The last thing anyone wants to do is sit in a cramped seat for 15 hours whilst warring with unknown fellow passengers over who gets to use the arm-rest! Thankfully there are measures that you can take to help ease the pain of long-haul. Pre-book seats: If you want to avoid being given the worst, most cramped seat in the whole of the cabin, you should consider pre-booking your seat. Most airlines allow you to do this well in advance of your flight, but it comes at a price. Around 30 will often cover the cost of pre-ooking a seat, but many of us would see this as a poultry price to pay when contrasted with the disaster that could befall one without taking this option. Book with the best: Another fail-safe tip for a comfortable flight is to book with the best airlines. The most prestigious airlines are usually the best for a reason.Directline]]> Holidays]]> City Breaks]]> Flights]]> http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Tips-For-Long-Haul-Flights/3028082 Sun, 18 Sep 2011 20:10:03 -0400 http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Tips-For-Long-Haul-Flights/3028082 No matter how many times you see it on television, nothing prepares you for a personal encounter with the real thing. Five thousand years of matchless history is dotted all around the smart shops, fountains and pavement cafes of this colossal brew of ancient and modern architecture. If you want to make the best of your fleeting visit to the 'Eternal City', then check out these must-see sights. St. Paul's cathedral really is a thing of wonder, and you don't have to be religious to be moved by that soaring marble cupola, or the sheer magnificence of the approach along Bernini's amazing, colonnaded walkway, with a glut of statuary all around you. Inside, the conspicuous displays of gold, gilt and polished marble combine with rare works of art to create one of the most incredible sights anywhere in the modern world. The Colosseum is best at dusk, as its ruined triple tiered bulk stands out against a mellow Roman twilight.Rome]]> city break]]> holiday]]> city holiday]]> directline]]> directline holidays]]> http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Five-Things-To-See-On-A-Rome-City-Break/3019392 Fri, 16 Sep 2011 16:47:05 -0400 http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Five-Things-To-See-On-A-Rome-City-Break/3019392 With everyone counting their pennies these days, the idea of the 'staycation', or taking a holiday at home, is beginning to catch on again. People who don't want to fly any kind of real distances are also drawn to the obvious attractions at hand here in the UK. On the other hand, many of us simply can't do without our fix of foreign sunshine every year, and will brave whatever it takes to get there. So, what works best for you? Let's look at the pros and cons for both. Holidaying in Britain means no language barriers, and of course you don't have to worry about currency exchange rates or adjusting your watches. Areas like Cornwall have beaches equal to anywhere in Europe, while resorts such as Alton Towers are fully geared up fun factories for kids of all ages. Mind you, we're not always guaranteed the weather, and our road and rail system is archaic compared to our neighbours across the channel. Getting anywhere in the UK always seems more problematical than it does abroad.Holiday]]> UK Holiday]]> Abroad]]> Insurance]]> http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Uk-Holidays-Vs-Holidays-Abroad/3012009 Thu, 15 Sep 2011 10:11:58 -0400 http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Uk-Holidays-Vs-Holidays-Abroad/3012009 The combination of a city with a beach gives you two breaks in one. In some cases, it combines history with the chance to indulge in some top end hedonism as you chill out after a hard day's sightseeing. Here's our take of five of the best around the world that give you twice as much for your time and money. Rio. Just the name makes you smile. There are world class beaches like Ipanema and Copacabana, long since immortalised in song. Huge Atlantic rollers kiss the sand and compete with the stunning backdrop of Corcovado and Sugar Loaf Mountain to create one of the most instantly recognisable cities on earth. Whether you're savouring the view from atop the world famous statue of Christ the Redeemer or some sultry samba in one of Rio's cutting edge nightspots, Rio is a thrilling ride. Miami combines a sizzling, palm fringed art deco facade at Ocean Drive with the vast, sweeping curve of South Beach to create on of the most amazing visual smorgasbords anywhere. There is possibly no better people watching place on earth. Stretch limos cruise past outdoor cafes and pavements thronged with the hip, the hopeful and the wannabes.Holiday]]> Beach Holiday]]> City Holiday]]> City Break]]> Directline Holiday]]> http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Five-Great-Destinations-With-A-City-And-A-Beach/2988100 Sun, 11 Sep 2011 16:19:26 -0400 http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Five-Great-Destinations-With-A-City-And-A-Beach/2988100 So, you're going away on your first ever ski trip. You've bought everything you think you'll need, your ski pass, your ski and boot rental and those all-important beginners lessons. But what about those small yet important things that you're almost certain to have forgotten? Didn't think so! The difference between a well packed bag and one that is badly prepared could effect the overall enjoyment factor of your first ski trip....Trust me, you really don't want that. So take the time to read through this simple list of of things that you should make are in your bag. Apart from the obvious things like passports, insurance documents and currency, you need to make sure you have items that you may think you do not necessarily require, but are nonetheless very important. Photos for lift passes are something that is often forgotten but can completely ruin your holiday. Imagine the absolute dismay when you get to the chair lift and you're turned away because you forgot to bring such a small yet indispensable item for your pass. What about sun cream?Ski Holiday]]> Ski]]> Skiing Holiday]]> Skiing]]> Directline Holidays]]> Directline Ski]]> http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/The-Beginner-s-Ski-Packing-List/2983130 Sat, 10 Sep 2011 05:25:41 -0400 http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/The-Beginner-s-Ski-Packing-List/2983130 Catalonia's capital is a buzzing, smartly clad metropolis that can hold it's own with any other city in the world. Full of smart shops, galleries and restaurants, it flaunts cutting edge architecture and ancient treasures alike against a fabulous backdrop of a sparkling Mediterranean seascape. You won't be able to do everything on your first visit, but check out these top five must-dos's to give you an essential intro to this fabulous city. Sagrada Familia is the city's landmark; the still-unfinished church began construction in the late 19th century and is, at present estimates, due to finally open in seventy-two years. It's clutch of spindly, honey coloured spires claw at the sky and, from close up, it resembles a gigantic, gingerbread mansion that seems to have melted in places. Vast amounts of delicate, inlaid carving cover the entire fantastic fa AND ccedil;ade but, for the best views, go at night when the entire complex is floodlit. Parc Guell is another of Gaudi's contributions to his home city; it's a quirky, eclectic playground of buildings and monuments in swirling, geometric shapes and styles, with beautiful, sandstone coloured walls and winding paths that make it unique to this amazing city.Spain]]> Barcelona]]> City Break]]> Holiday]]> Directline Holiday]]> http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Five-Must-See-Sights-On-A-Barcelona-City-Break/2971033 Thu, 08 Sep 2011 06:26:43 -0400 http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Five-Must-See-Sights-On-A-Barcelona-City-Break/2971033 With Security in airports becoming more tough, limitations on what you can and cannot take with you to your holiday journey have become increasingly unclear. Many of us have experienced the somewhat uncomfortable moment when the airport scanner buzzes and the obligatory frisk commences. By following simple tips to your travel packing will avoid this type of problem. First and foremost you should get yourself up to date with current regulations on what you can actually take on-board your flight. When the most recent set of rules concerning liquids and gels came into place, many people were caught on the hop at the airport because they had no idea that things like tubes of toothpaste were now banned. If you're in doubt about what liquids you can take onto your flight, purchase a cheap version just in case you have to throw the item away and place inside a clear plastic bag for easy access. You are allowed to take medication onto your flight, just make sure you notify security and place all pills or remedies in a clear plastic bag ready for screening. Laptops and shoes can also cause problems and slow you down as you pass through check-in.tips]]> travel]]> travel package]]> travel packing tips]]> tips for]]> airport]]> airport security]]> tips to travel]]> http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Travel-Packing-Tips-For-Airport-Security/2826093 Fri, 12 Aug 2011 09:37:42 -0400 http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Travel-Packing-Tips-For-Airport-Security/2826093 It's time to start planning your next ski trip. Have you decided whether to take the little ones with you this year? If yes, then go with a family friendly option and try one of the resorts listed below. 1. Val Gardena, Italy This Italian resort is ideal for families looking for an alternative to the Alps whilst not scrimping on quality. There are an unrivalled number of facilities to keep your kids entertained such as child care and ski schools. Another big plus of Val Gardena is their 'superkids' special offer weeks; whereby kids can stay and ski for free at an array of guest-houses in the area. 2.Flaine, France For pistes that combine excellent skiing with a wide variety of entertainments such as bowling alleys, shopping malls, ice-rinks and fast-food restaurants, Flaine is a fantastic choice. Ski nurseries are also easy to come by if you are looking to train your youngest into the next slalom champ! 3.Whistler-Blackcomb, Canada Such is the scale and enterprise of Canada's great Whistler, that it is impossible not to have an all-action ski holiday here. Skiing ranges from simple nursery slopes to black-runs that will really test your skiing mettle.Ski]]> Skiing Holiday]]> Holiday]]> Directline]]> Directline Holidays]]> Skiing]]> http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Top-5-Family-Ski-Resorts/2803479 Mon, 08 Aug 2011 13:44:00 -0400 http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Top-5-Family-Ski-Resorts/2803479 Looking for a city that has everything you need for the perfect night out? With this countdown, you're sure to find a city that combines your own personal requirements for a once-in-a-lifetime party! 1) Bangkok OK, so the flight in itself is around 12 hours, but once there, you will discover one of the greatest parties on Earth. The best place to really immerse yourself in Bangkok's party is on Khao San Road - THE place for meeting fellow world travellers and backpackers. Street entertainments fill the street and locals pedal there wares as you stroll around the hundreds of bars and clubs appealing to inhabitants from around the globe. Once the party is over, take the time to immerse yourself in the Thai way of life by visiting Bangkok's huge floating market or The Grand Palace where you may even catch a glimpse of the King. 2) Dublin Visit Dublin for a party containing lashings of the black stuff. During that day the streets are filled with customary Irish friendliness, when night arrives this is amped up to the maximum with everyone looking to get in on the partying.Directline]]> Directline Holidays]]> Directline City Breaks]]> Party Holiday]]> Holiday]]> http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Top-5-Party-City-Breaks/2778698 Wed, 03 Aug 2011 08:07:08 -0400 http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Top-5-Party-City-Breaks/2778698