09.2.2008 | 6:08 am | Features
One of the most annoying things that can happen to a traveller or holiday maker is losing their bags in transit. On average, 15 out of every 1000 air travellers will have their luggage go missing in transit. It can really put a dampener on your holiday to arrive without your bikinis, sarongs or ski gear.
In most cases the bags will be located but if the airline never finds them, they will pay you a flat rate of compensation based on the weight of your luggage, not the contents. So whether you’re carrying designer togs or Primark bargains, you’ll get the same amount of compensation.
There are a few things you can do to prepare for the worst case scenario. Firstly, pack some essentials in your hand luggage, including jewellery, medication and a change of clothing. This way you’ll have an emergency kit if your suitcase goes astray.
Next, make sure that your luggage is clearly labeled with your contact information. If you don’t want to give away your personal details, put down your work address. Also, invest in a padlock or security belt for your suitcase to prevent it opening in transit.
For insurance purposes, make a list of everything you put in your suitcase and its value. This way you’ll know exactly what you’re missing if your case goes astray. Remember - all airlines ask that an insurance claim for missing luggage is be filed within 24 hours, so find the baggage agent as soon as you realise that your bags have been lost.
Find cheap flights to international destinations at FlightComparison.co.uk.
08.26.2008 | 9:34 am | Features
Ever fancied blagging yourself a free upgrade? There’s nothing better than stretching out in business class, especially on a long haul flight. There is no failsafe method of wangling an upgrade, but here are some things you could try.
Frequent Flyer
Frequent flyer programs are great, especially if you use one airline a lot. Air miles won’t guarantee you an upgrade, but you will be more likely to get one if you are a silver or gold member.
Avoid The Big Airports
Flying from Heathrow with BA won’t give you the best chance of an upgrade because there will be more BA frequent flyers going from there. Try a smaller regional airport for a better chance.
Dress Well
It pays to look the part if you’re after an upgrade. Wearing business gear and carrying a laptop case will give you the right image, more so than rocking up in cargo pants with a backpack.
Research
Look for flights in which the economy section is likely to be full. Book this flight, then look online a couple of days before you fly to see what seats are remaining in business class. The fuller economy is, and the more seats that are left in business class, the more likely you are to be upgraded.
Don’t Order a Meal
Don’t book a special meal if you want to be considered for an upgrade. Meals can’t be moved up so the airline will bypass you if you’ve booked a specific meal.
Good luck!
Find the cheapest flights on FlightComparison.co.uk.
08.19.2008 | 9:49 am | Features
It’s that time of year again. A-level results have come out and many young people are preparing to set off on their Gap Years, possibly travelling alone for the first time in their lives. And even if you’re not part of the Gap Year crew, you may take a holiday alone at some stage. Here are some tips for keeping safe while travelling solo.
You may think that it’s only women who need to be aware of safety, but men must be vigilant too. Stick to the following pointers:
* Choose a well-known hotel in a safe area. Walk confidently when you’re out, as if you are familiar with the area.
* Be aware of cultural differences. Smiling and flirting can be misconstrued in some countries
* Be prepared for curious questions from locals! Try not to be defensive. Answer politely and move on.
For women travelling alone, the following advice may come in useful:
* Always choose a reputable hotel in a good area, and make use of security facilities like safes. Never tell anyone exactly where you’re staying.
* Avoid poorly lit areas at night time.
* If you use public transport sit next to other women if you can.
* If you don’t want too much male attention, it’s a good idea to wear a wedding ring, even if you aren’t married! Don’t make eye contact, and adopt confident body language.
For all solo travellers, it’s a good idea to familiarise yourself with some basic phrases in the language of the place you’ll be visiting. Also, for extra peace of mind, learn some simple self defence.
Find cheap flights to world destinations at FlightComparison.co.uk.
08.12.2008 | 9:34 am | Features
Even with so many choices of budget airlines and cut-price fares available, do you ever worry that you could be spending too much on plane tickets? Follow our tips and you could end up saving a packet.
Comparison Websites
Quick and easy to use, sites like FlightComparison do all the hard work for you. Simply key in where you want to go and the dates you want to travel, and FlightComparison will sift through countless different providers to find the lowest fare.
Look for Packages
Sometimes it can work out cheaper to buy a flight and accommodation package. Often, inclusive tours have airfares so cheap that the airline doesn’t want to advertise them, so they package them up with an accommodation deal. This is especially great because your hotel is sorted along with your cut-price flight.
Go Online for Short Haul
If you’re used to booking your flights over the phone with budget airlines like EasyJet, think about using the internet instead. EasyJet won’t take phone bookings more than two weeks in advance, meaning that all the lowest fares will have gone. Also, the booking phone lines cost a packet – EasyJet’s is 65p per minute, and British Airways’ is 15p.
Don’t Go Direct
Provided that you have enough time, an indirect flight could save you heaps. It may be a hassle to take your journey in two legs, but the savings can often outweigh the disadvantages. Plus, if you have a long enough stop over, there could be the chance to see another country for a few hours between flights.
Pay By Debit
Many airlines will hike up the fees if you pay by credit card. EasyJet whacks a minimum charge of £4.95 onto all credit card transactions, but only charges £1.75 for debit card payments.
Fly Out of Season
It’s an obvious one, but it holds true. You can make massive savings if you fly outside of the school holiday period.
So follow our advice and you could be saving a packet. And every pound you save is more towards your holiday spending fund!
Check FlightComparison.co.uk for the cheapest flights to destinations across the globe.
08.5.2008 | 12:09 pm | Features
The Greek Islands have been a popular holiday destination since the dawn of tourism. Vacations to Rhodes, Crete, Corfu and Santorini are perennial favourites. But there are so many other gems to explore – some you probably haven’t even heard of. So here are five of the more unusual islands that we recommend that you check out.
Patmos
One of the Dodecanese Islands in the Aegean, Patmos is home to a beautiful monastery perched on a hill. The island is nicknamed Jerusalem of the Aegean thanks to its rich religious history. St John wrote the book of Revelation, the last book in the Bible, on Patmos, and the island now attracts pilgrims from the Orthodox and Western Christian faith. The beautiful beaches and typically Greek feel make it a great place for tourists too.
Koufonissia
Koufonissia is actually three islands. They are famous for their beaches, earning them the moniker ‘Jamaica of Europe’. Located among the Cyclades group of island between Amorgos and Naxos, Koufonissia is very quiet and remote. Many of the coves and beaches can only be accessed by boat. The majority of the beaches are tiny, but the main stretch on the biggest island is relatively large and easy to get to.
Skopelos
You’ve probably heard about Skopelos lately, as the film version of the musical Mamma Mia was filmed there. If you enjoy walking, Skopelos is perfect. It is criss-crossed with old mule paths leading through pretty forests. The mountainous island lies between Skiathos and Alonnissos in the Aegean Sea, and is part of the Northern Sporades chain.
Hydra
Hydra is one of those incredibly picturesque islands that almost take your breath away. Its beauty has inspired painters throughout the ages, and it is made all the more special by the fact that wheeled transport is banned. Donkeys are the only way to get around. Hydra is also famous for its naval history centering on the picture-postcard harbour. The Sea Captain Academy of Hydra is renowned throughout the Mediterranean.
Skyros
Skyros is steeped in Ancient history. It was here that Trojan War hero Achilles spent his childhood. More recently, it was the burial place of poet Rupert Brooke. The island’s lifeblood is agriculture. Tourism comes in second place, but this makes for an unspoilt environment. Skyros seems like a million miles away from the tawdry neon of Faliraki and other popular hot spots, and this is why we love it.
Find cheap flights to Greece at FlightComparison.co.uk.
07.29.2008 | 10:18 am | Features
How to avoid being ill on holiday, and what to do if the worst happens…
The last thing you want when you’re on holiday is to get sick. There’s nothing worse than being confined to your hotel room while your friends are out seeing the sights or enjoying the nightlife. And it’s not just a bout of diarrhoea that could hit – there are some nasty diseases out there that you need to be aware of. Follow our tips and you’ll be set for a healthy, happy holiday.
Food Poisoning and Diarrhoea
Adapting to the diet of a foreign destination can play havoc with your digestive system. To avoid ‘traveller’s belly’ you should:
• wash your hands frequently
• be sensible with your choices and avoid street food or anything that looks unsanitary
• check if the water in your resort or city is suitable for drinking. If not, make sure you use bottled water to clean your teeth and avoid ice with drinks, as well as fruit that you haven’t washed yourself
• only eat well-cooked meat and fish, or avoid it altogether if you’re unsure that it’s fresh
If you’re unlucky and feel the symptoms coming on, don’t panic. Drink plenty of water and avoid dairy products and alcohol. Rest up, and only use anti-diarrhoea medication as a last resort. They may help in the short-term, but it’s better to let the bug leave your system naturally.
Sunstroke
Sunstroke strikes when the body’s heat-regulating system shuts down after exposure to the sun. It can be life-threatening, so make sure you catch it early. Symptoms include weakness and fatigue, aching muscles, nausea, clammy skin, rapid pulse, dizziness, heavy sweating, fainting and headaches.
Avoid it by staying out of the midday sun and limiting your exposure throughout the day. If you think you have sunstroke, you must lower your body’s temperature with a cold bath or ice pack, then seek medical advice.
Serious diseases like hepatitis, malaria and typhoid are rife in many countries (especially developing nations) so make sure you ask your GP about inoculations before you travel.
Find cheap flights to world destinations at FlightComparison.co.uk.
07.22.2008 | 5:40 am | Features
If you’ve ever flown long haul, you’ll probably have experienced jet lag. You emerge from the plane after hours of travelling, only to find that it’s a completely different time of day. Either you’re raring to go at 3 a.m., or you’re completely knackered and the day has just dawned.
Scientifically speaking, jet lag (or desynchronosis) is a disruption of the body’s circadian rhythms caused by a change in light and dark patterns. This can cause sleepiness or insomnia, mood swings, dehydration and a lowering of the immune system. Roughly speaking, the number of hours you fly will correspond to the number of days you will suffer jet lag. Not great if you want to make the most of your holiday from the word go.
So what can you do about it? The best way to cure jet lag is to get used to the time zone in your new destination as quickly as possible. Here are some things to consider:
Direction of Travel
Because jet lag happens when you travel between time zones, flying north to south won’t be as bad as going east. To combat symptoms when you’re going east, make sure you get plenty of light in the morning and less in the evening for a week before you fly. Wake up earlier and get to sleep earlier to acclimatise your body in preparation for your trip. If you’re flying west, avoid light in the morning and seek it in the evening.
Don’t Over-Stimulate
While you’re travelling and once you land, stay away from caffeine and alcohol, and don’t do any vigorous exercise before you sleep. This will prevent your body becoming over-stimulated. Make sure you drink plenty of water.
Sleeping Conditions
When you finally get to bed, make sure you’ll get a good night’s sleep. Wear ear-plugs and a blindfold if necessary. Do your best to minimize light and noise while sleeping - even wearing earplugs if necessary.
Melatonin
Melatonin is a hormone secreted by the pineal gland. Take 0.5 mg to help fall asleep. However, don’t take it if you are pregnant or lactating and don’t give it to children.
Rest Up
Don’t organise too much for your first day. A day of relaxation will put you on the right track to avoiding jet lag.
Find the cheapest flights to world destinations at FlightComparison.co.uk.
07.1.2008 | 9:15 am | Features
When talking about a country as diverse as India, it’s really difficult to single out just five must-sees. Each state has its own unique flavour and every city has its particular charm, but we’ve done our best to come up with a selection of highlights to inspire you if you decide to visit this multi-faceted country.
5. Jaipur
The state capital of Rajasthan was founded in 1727 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh, and has a population of more than 5 million. Also known as the Pink City thanks to its sandstone imitation stucco, Jaipur is hugely popular with tourists, and it’s not hard to see why. One of the city’s most famous sights is Amber Palace complex which overlooks an artificial lake just south of the town of Amber. The complex is a mix of Hindu and Muslim architecture. Above the palace sits the Jaigarh Fort with its stunning views of the Aravalli foothills. The fort is famous for its collection of cannons which includes the Jaivana, reputedly the largest wheeled cannon in the world.
Jaipur is a great place to experience historic India, and a good starting point for exploring Rajasthan.
4. Old Delhi
The history of India’s capital spans many dynasties and empires, and the legacy of its past is clear to see in city’s architecture. Many of Delhi’s most impressive buildings come from the time of the 17th century Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, who lent his name to the oldest district, Shahjahanabad. He was responsible for the Red Fort and the Jama Masjid, or Friday Mosque. Situated at the end of a long path dotted with hawkers and street beggars, the vast onion domes of the mosque tower over the huge central patio. The courtyard can hold up to twenty-five thousand worshippers.
Older still is the Qutub Minar, one of Delhi’s most instantly recognisable buildings. It was begun in 1193 by Qutb-ud-din Aibak, the first Muslim ruler of Delhi, inspired by the Jam Minaret in Afghanistan. His successor Iltutmish added a further three storeys to the base and Firuz Shah Tughluq constructed the fifth final storey in 1368.
A little way out of the main city at Nizamuddin East is Humayun’s Tomb (pictured), a tranquil complex of mausoleums set among trees and lawns.
3. Kerala Backwaters
Further south are the Kerala Backwaters, a chain of lakes and lagoons on the Malabar Coast, popular with tourists keen to escape the chaos of the cities. The 900 kilometre backwater network stretches for nearly half the length of Kerala State. National Waterway Number 3 from Kollam to Kottapuram is the main tourist route. Major towns include the port of Cochin, Kumarakom, and Alleppey (Alappuzha) or the ‘Venice of the East’. Most visitors to Kerala use kettuvallams, a type of houseboat, to see the backwaters. The most popular cruises are Alappuzha to Thotapally via Punnamada Lake, Alappuzha to Alumkavadi, and Alappuzha to Kidangara. National Geographic Traveler placed Kerala on its list of the ‘50 destinations of a lifetime’.
2. Varanasi Ghats
The city of Varanasi (also known as Benares) in Uttar Pradesh is India’s holiest city, and the world’s oldest. It is sacred to Hindus, Jains and Buddhists as it is the meeting place of the Varuni, Assi and Ganges rivers. Mark Twain wrote “Benares is older than history, older than tradition, older even than legend, and looks twice as old as all of them put together.” Hindus from across India come to Varanasi to bathe in the holy waters of the Ganges and to cremate their dead on the banks. The waterfront of the city is made up of nearly a hundred stone stairways leading to the river, known as ghats. Take a boat trip down the river and you’ll see thousands of people washing and praying in the water. A sunset boat trip is particularly beautiful, especially if you pass a prayer ceremony taking place along the ghats.
1. Taj Mahal
If there had to be just one icon of India, it would have to be the Taj Mahal. Resting on the banks of the Jamuna River outside the town of Agra, the unmistakable white domes have inspired writers, artists and poets throughout the ages. The Taj is the ultimate symbol of love. It was built by Shah Jahan as a mausoleum for his favourite wife Mumtaz, and is the finest example of Mughal architecture. It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983.
For the cheapest flights to India’s cities visit FlightComparison.co.uk.
06.24.2008 | 7:09 am | World Destinations, Features
If you want to visit somewhere unusual, colourful and interesting, Accra is the place to go. The capital of Ghana is a blend of life, warmth and excitement that dazzles the senses. From the bustling markets to the breezy beaches, Accra is a haven in the splendour that is Ghana. With a population of two million the city is full of life night and day. The weather is mostly hot and humid all year round although further inland it is drier. The tourist season is from June to August.
Accra is among Africa’s more expensive destinations, but hotels are cheap by western standards. Five pounds a day will get you a basic room and meals. If you want top-notch food and amenities like air conditioning, running water, and comfortable bedding, plan to spend upwards of thirty pounds. The seaside capital is an incredible place to see the traditions and heritage of Ghana, and even though it is a popular vacation destination, visitors aren’t as visible as you might think. There’s no need to expect the hotel pool to be crowded with fellow foreigners.
Accra is served by Kotoka International Airport. Ghana International Airlines took over from Ghana Airways in 2005 and operates flights between Accra and London. The airport is served by other African carriers and major Western airlines. Flight time from London is around seven hours. Taxi and rental car are good ways of getting around town but to get a proper feel for Accra, we recommend walking.
Lots of hotels in Accra have beautiful pools ringed with palm trees which are perfect for relaxation, but the beaches are fantastic too. Located at the edge of the city, beaches such as Coco Beach and La Pleasure Beach offer great views of the Atlantic. Coco Beach is the more secluded, peaceful choice, but if you want to be surrounded by lively young Ghanaians, drive over to La Pleasure Beach at the weekends.
There are some great markets in the city where Ghana life can be seen in all its colourful glory. Makola Market is bustling with locals, and vendors selling everything imaginable. To the west of Accra is Kaneshie Market which sells food and spices. Another good place for picking up local crafts is the beachfront Arts Centre next to the Nkrumah Mausoleum. Here you’ll find all sorts of pieces from beads, drums and fabrics, to wood carvings and statues. Be warned - sellers can be pushy, so have your bargaining skills ready!
If you want to learn a bit about Ghana’s heritage, visit the Kwame Nkrumah Park. This grand monument is a tribute to Ghana’s founding father. There’s a crypt, museum and fountains, and just east of the park lies Independence Square, another place worth visiting. The National Museum holds hundreds of objects commemorating the traditions of the Gad, Akwamu and Asante people.
The Greater Accra Centre for National Culture is a fantastic place to find out about local music and dance. And don’t forget the visit the W.E.B. Dubois Memorial Centre of Pan-African Culture where you’ll see the book collection of the world-famous author.
So if you want somewhere a little unusual for your next holiday, give Accra a go. Check FlightComparison.co.uk for the cheapest flights.
06.17.2008 | 11:21 am | Features
Green is the buzzword of the moment right now, with governments, companies and individuals pledging to do what they can to save the environment.
The travel industry has been eco-aware for some time. Ecotourism comes out on top as its fastest growing sub-section, as tourists have realised that it’s possible (and highly rewarding) to give something back while taking a vacation. The United Nations named 2002 the International Year of Ecotourism, and the industry has never looked back.
Peregrine Adventures, World Expeditions, Explore Worldwide and Intrepid Travel are just some of the companies promoting responsible tourism. Intrepid focused on environmentally, culturally and socially responsible tourism with maximum trip groups of twelve travellers to minimise impact. Intrepid will be a carbon neutral company by the end of 2009, reducing greenhouse gas emissions from their premises and trips as much as possible and offsetting the rest.
For young people who might not be able to afford world travel but still want to do their bit, Christian Aid is launching Platform2, a scheme which sends British 18 to 25-year-olds to volunteer in a developing country for ten weeks. Volunteers will visit countries such as Ghana, South Africa, Peru, India and Malawi to work with local communities. On their return, they will be asked to document their trip through blogging, art, photography or film, to spread the word and raise awareness of ecotourism. Funded by the Department for International Development, this scheme is a great opportunity for young people who might otherwise have been unable to afford to volunteer and travel.
If you’re 18 to 25, have a UK passport and would like to take part in Platform2, visit MyPlatform2 for details of how you can apply.
To find out about ecotourism in general, visit Ecotourism.org.
