Drunk Arab prince threatened with Taser on BA flight

July 29, 2012, 12:38 am

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Drunk Arab prince threatened with Taser on BA flight BA

An Arab prince was thrown off a British Airways flight by police armed with 50,000 volt Taser guns after he stormed the flight deck and refused to return to his seat.

The Daily Mail reports that the 28-year-old man, who is believed to be a close relative of Bahrain's King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, was drunk when the incident occurred.

He had boarded a Boeing 777 at Heathrow airport, when he began complaining about the poor service on the BA125 flight to Doha, Qatar, via Bahrain.

According to The Sun, the billionaire prince was drunk by 10am. He got up from his £2,700 First Class seat to complain to the captain, shortly before the plane was due to take off.

Crew members called the police, who pointed Taser guns at the prince when he refused to calm down.

He was then removed from the flight and taken to a west London police station, where he had his DNA, mugshot and fingerprints taken before being released on bail.

A passenger told The Sun: "We were terrified when the armed police came on and started pointing Tasers at him."

A police spokesperson confirmed to the Daily Mail that the incident had happened.

She said: "We were called at 10.34am on Sunday July 22 to an outward bound flight to Doha, Qatar, via Bahrain at London Heathrow after a man was reported to be causing a disturbance.

"A man who is 28 was arrested for being drunk and disorderly and failing to comply with the instructions of the cabin crew. He was taken to a west London police station and bailed to a date in September."

Click on the image below for 10 things not to do on a plane...

Ten things not to do on a plane

Punch your fellow passengers
 Ok, it's slightly annoying and uncomfortable when someone reclines their seat right back during the meal service, but it probably doesn't justify full blown fisticuffs, resulting in an F-16 fighter jet escort back to Washington and $50,000 worth of fuel being dumped, as happened on an American flight to Ghana last year.
Change a smelly nappy
 It may be tough flying with babies, but if you cause a stink you could be in big trouble. One passenger who cleaned up her baby on a Qantas flight was held responsible for grounding a flight after cabin crew panicked about the 'strange smell'. The flight had to make an emergency landing at Mt Isa, where passengers say they had to be forklifted off the plane because the airport didn't have the facilities to disembark the huge Boeing 767. Not a good look.
Put hummingbirds in your pants
 Strange as it may sound, one Dutch passenger was caught trying to smuggle hummingbirds in his pants on a flight from French Guiana in September 2011. They were sewn inside his pants, each individually wrapped in cloth and taped up to stop them escape him. Not surprisingly, he was spotted fidgeting and was eventually arrested... lesson learned (we presume).
Put a child in an overhead locker
 Tempting as it may be, shutting a toddler in with the hand luggage is a definite no-no. One flight attendant was sacked for doing just that on a Virgin Blue flight in 2011. According to mum Natalie Williamson, he came and put her son Riley into a locker and closed the latch. He claimed it was part of a game of peekaboo, but Natalie - and the airline - saw things differently...
Pretend your dead husband is just 'asleep'
 If you want to return a beloved, deceased relation to their homeland, you'll usually have to pay repatriation fees. One way to get round these is to do what two German women allegedly did when Curt Willi Jarant, the women's 91 year old husband/stepfather died and they wanted to fly him home to Germany: bundle him into a wheelchair, stick some sunglasses on him and say he's 'sleeping'. Only trouble is, someone eventually noticed.
Strap a drugged rhesus monkey to your belly
 You know how it is - you go on holiday, spot a cute monkey, think how sweet it would be to have as a pet...For most of us, the fantasy ends there. Not so the American woman who spent an entire flight home from Thailand with a drugged rhesus monkey strapped to her to look like a pregnant belly. Incredibly, she got through security back home in LA, and was only caught when she blabbed to a shop assistant, who informed the (slightly embarrassed) authorities.
Wee in your seat
 It's far better to cross your legs - believe us. French actor Gerard Depardieu was thrown off a City Jet flight from Paris to Dublin last August for urinating on the plane. The aircraft was ready to take off when the actor asked to use the toilet - but he was told by staff to stay in his seat. He resorted to peeing into a bottle, much to the chagrin of cabin crew. When some spilled onto the floor, the crew alerted the pilot and the plane had to taxi back to the terminal, where Depardieu was escorted off the plane.
Throw water at screaming children
 Anyone who has children themselves (or even just a smidgen of common sense) will know that throwing water on a screaming baby is not the best way to quieten it, but this was the approach American passenger Ronald Duffy chose on a flight to Brazil in 2004. He was almost lynched by fellow passengers, his visa was revoked, he was deported...and still the baby kept crying (probably).
Try to open the emergency exit
 It's not actually possible to open a plane's emergency exits when its in the air, but that knowledge would probably have done little to reassure passengers onboard a flight from Palma to Newcastle last year when a 22-year old man tried to pull open the plane doors at 36,000 ft, screaming 'it's ok, we're just on a flight simulator.' It took eight seat belts to restrain him and six police officers were waiting to arrest him when the plane made an emergency landing at Gatwick.
Get frisky in the toilet
 A recent survey found that one in ten Brits claim have joined the 'Mile High Club' by having sex in a plane loo - but it could get you into serious trouble, as one Australian couple discovered on a flight in Queensland in December 2011. The pair were caught in a compromising position in the plane toilet - and the man was promptly charged with offensive and disorderly conduct under the Civil Aviation Safety Act.

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British man rescued by lifeguards after trying to swim to America

July 29, 2012, 3:52 am

≫ Next: Holidaymaker fined for trying to abandon dog at UK beach

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Filed under: Travel News

British man rescued by lifeguards after trying to swim to America PA

Yesterday, Olympic fever inspired one London man to try to swim across the Atlantic to America, from a beach in Biarritz.

But despite his insistence that he was up to the challenge, he was rescued by coastguards who convinced him that it probably wasn't a good idea to continue.

The Daily Mail reports that the 34 year-old holidaymaker was visiting Biarritz with friends. He told them that he was planning to swim to New York to carry the Olympic spirit across the Atlantic.

They let him go because they thought he was joking, and knew that he was a strong swimmer.

However, according to RFI, the man was victim of a joke as his friends told him that he would be picked up by a boat.

At 3.30pm, lifeguards watched as he swam past the buoys 300 yards out to sea, which mark the legal limit for swimmers. He then continued to swim until he was out of sight.

At this point, lifeguards called out a helicopter and a diver dropped into the sea and explained to the man that it was a good idea to turn back.

At the same time, lifeguards arrived in a rescue dinghy. The man then realised that he might have made a mistake, so lifeguards threw him a line and towed him back to the beach.

Laurent Saintespes, senior officer at Biarritz airbase told Agence France Presse: "He was a bit naive. But at a time when the Olympics are taking place in London you have to see the funny side of things."

Click on the image below for ten wonderful cities by the sea...

Ten wonderful cities by the sea

Nice, France
 Enjoy the French Riviera at this seaside city that attracts everyone from families to super-stylish locals. There are 15 private and 20 public beaches to choose from over seven kilometres of coastline in Nice. Be sure to bring your flip flops and something harder than a towel though as the beaches are covered in pebbles. The Promenade des Anglais is Nice's famous promenade and perfect for an evening's stroll next to the beach.
Barcelona, Spain
 It seems this city has everything you could want from one - superb food, architectural masterpieces, rich and varied nightlife, a colourful history AND sandy beaches! The ones in the north, like Llevant and The Nova Mar Bella are quieter and attract mostly families, locals and those looking for cleaner and tranquil beaches. In the south, beaches like Sant Sebastia and Barceloneta are popular with tourists and locals and are closer to the city centre.
Cape Town, South Africa
 White sand, dramatic views and varied beaches make Cape Town a paradise for sand and sea lovers. The trendy set head to Clifton Beach for sunbathing and volleyball. Camps Bay attracts large crowds and has chic restaurants, Llandudno is one for surfers and Sandy Bay is a nudist beach. False Bay has some good beaches for swimming, including Muizenberg, Fish Hoek and Boulders Beach, which is a must-see for its colony of African penguins that live here.
Venice, Italy
 Not many people know this, but Venice isn't just about the canals - there's are beaches too. Venice Lido is an island of 11 kilometres that attracts families and summer tourists to its sandy beaches and warm Adriatic waters. The Gran Viale Santa Maria Elisabetta is the island's main street and houses many hotels, shops and cafes. Every year the Venice Film Festival takes place at Venice Lido at the Palazzo del Cinema.
Los Angeles, USA
 Life's a beach in LA where you can choose from eight coastal hotspots in the city. The most famous is Venice Beach (pictured) and a stroll along its boardwalk will give you the chance to marvel at the entertainers, roller-bladers and weird and wonderful characters it attracts. Manhattan Beach attracts sporty types with its miles of volleyball courts, Malibu's Surfrider Beach is, as its name suggests, a surfer's paradise and El Matador Beach is perfect for romantic couples looking for a secluded spot! Santa Monica State Beach attracts the crowds, Hermosa Beach is frequented by trendy sunbathers, Cabrillo is popular with families and nature enthusiasts will love exploring the sea caves and tide pools of the beach at Leo Carrillo State Park - LA definitely has it covered for beach lovers!
Riga (Jurmala), Latvia
 Just a 30-minute drive away from Riga's city centre, you'll find the resort town of Jurmala, which was once known by the Germans as the beach of Riga. Its white sand and shallow water makes the 33km coastline popular with local families and tourists. The beaches are clean too with the Majori and Bulduri parts of the shoreline flying Blue Flags. Here you can rent pedal boats and at Pumpuri Beach there's kite surfing and windsurfing. Dubulti (pictured) attracts beach football and volleyball fans to its annual competitions.
Sydney, Australia
 As one of the most famous beach cities in the world, Sydney has a wealth of beaches for you to experience Australia's laid-back lifestyle and take in the city's sights. Bondi Beach is one of the world's greatest and is a haven for surfers, cafe lovers and Sydney's beautiful crowd. Other top Ocean beaches include Coogee and Manly. You'll find some harbour beaches in Sydney too, like Balmoral and Washaway.
Antalya, Turkey
 With over 300 days of sunshine, it would be odd for this city not to have beaches. Thankfully Antalya does and they're pretty good too with turquoise waters and mountain views. Konyaalti is a clean pebble beach with chairs and umbrellas for visitors to rent. Lara Beach on the east of the city offers dark sand and calm seas. Kaleici's harbour (pictured) is the city's old port and has the small Mermeli Beach on its west side.
Biarritz, France
 Beach life in Biarritz is as luxurious and glamorous as it gets in a city. It has nice beaches, majestic hotels and architectural marvels that attract rich and famous visitors. It's also home to the Biarritz Surf Festival and one of the surfing hotspots of Europe. The largest beach is La Grande Plage, which is great for bathing and surfing and located close to Biarritz's centre. Port Vieux beach is popular with families and Miramar Beach is a beautiful beach with its iconic Le Rocher de la Fregate rock.
Vancouver, Canada
 This urban centre in Canada may not spring to mind for a beach break, but surrounding the metropolis is a cluster of ten clean, sandy beaches with spectacular views of the city's skyline. They're ideal for walkers in the winter and swimmers in the summer when the cool waters provide a refreshing escape from the heat. The beaches - English Bay, Sunset, Kitsilano, Jericho, Locarno, Spanish Banks, Second and Third - attract various visitors from families to sport fans and sunbathers to those who bare all!

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Holidaymaker fined for trying to abandon dog at UK beach

July 29, 2012, 11:23 pm

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Filed under: Travel News

Holidaymaker fined for trying to abandon dog at UK beach Stock photo, Essex beach: Rex

A female holidaymaker has been fined after attempting to abandon her own dog during a trip to the north Essex coast.

The woman, who was staying at a holiday park, contacted Tendring District Council's Dog Warden team and claimed she had found the dog on Jaywick beach.

The pet was picked up and taken to the council's holding kennels in Weeley.

Little did the woman know, however, that her husband had actually micro-chipped the pet, and wardens soon discovered that she was actually its owner.

The dog was taken back tot he holiday park in St Osyth, where, after initially denying it, the woman admitted it was hers.

One of the council's dog wardens, Beverly Wallis, told eadt.co.uk: "The dog had been micro-chipped and although there was a different surname and address, we managed to do a bit of old-fashioned detective work and trace the woman to the caravan.

"I think she was a bit surprised when we returned within 18 hours, and she will get an invoice for £82 for our time."

Ms Wallis added that the police were particularly helpful, saying: "They were able to challenge her story and threatened to arrest her - which is when she finally admitted it was her dog."

Nick Turner, the council's cabinet member for the environment, said the wardens have a responsibility for stray dogs but not for abandoned pets.

He said: "There are responsible ways of disposing of unwanted dogs and dumping them is not one of them.

"Hopefully, this case will send out a clear message that we will take a strong line and do everything in our power to trace irresponsible owners and give them their pets back.

"In this case, it has also cost the owner £82 for wasting our officers' time and public money."

It is an offence to abandon a dog, and the RSPCA can prosecute anyone who does so.

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Ryanair plans planes with wider doors to speed up boarding

July 30, 2012, 11:05 pm

≫ Next: Amy Childs shows off newly-boosted bikini body in Barcelona

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Filed under: Travel News

Ryanair plans planes with wider doors to speed up boarding PA

Over the years, Ryanair boss Michael O'Leary has come up with many a plan to ensure the airline's profits are always rising.

The latest idea? Planes with extra-wide doors to fit passengers through two-by-two.

According to Howard Millar, Ryanair's deputy chief executive, bigger doors will allow people to board and disembark more quickly, shaving time off the all-important turnarounds.

He told the Guardian: "We want two people to walk through the door. If the door is wider you can load people on and off the aircraft quicker. We want a low-cost plane that suits our business model."

The airline has struck an agreement to work on a prototype with the Commercial Aircraft Corporatio of China (Comac).

Ryanair is interested in Comac's planned 200-seater C919 aircraft, which is being developed to rival the Boeing 737 and the Airbus A320. The 737 only carries 189 passengers, so the C919 will provide a more financially efficient alternative.

Ryanair boss Michael O'Leary is renowned for coming up with 'wacky' ways to boost the airline's revenue.

Some of his money-saving schemes? Scrapping the role of co-pilot, letting passengers stand on shorter flights, removing two of the three on-board loos on their Boeing 737s to make room for more passengers, and introducing coin-operated toilets.

But Millar says there's real pragmatism in some of the suggestions given to Comac, including smaller galley sections and a new design for the hold.

In light of the fact that Ryanair does not provide a meal service, and carries fewer bags than many other airlines due to its baggage fees, Millar says the extra galley space is not needed, telling the Guardian: "Why do we need to carry all this additional weight in galley areas that we don't use? We don't really use the hold very much, so can we make it a bit lighter?"

The heavier an aircraft, the more expensive the flight, so a number of airlines are devising ways to make their planes lighter.

Back in April, Ryanair also came up with a number of new initiatives aimed at saving money in the face of rising fuel prices - including advising cabin crew to "watch their weight".

As well as encouraging flight staff to battle the bulge, Ryanair intends to cut the amount of ice on board, and reduce the weight of trollies and seats.

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Ten things we love to hate about low-cost flying

Paying for paying
Is it just us, or is there something seriously nut so about the concept of paying for the privilege of paying? It's a crazy, mixed-up world when you have to pay £10 to use a debit card which costs the airline around 20p to process. Of course, you could apply for one of the cards which are 'free' to use, but they change all the time and take hours to apply for. If we thought about it too hard we'd only ever sit at home and cry.
Clashing colours
My dear, the garishness! Bright orange, purple, lurid yellow... it's enough to make anyone long for the days of a discreet livery of navy, red and perhaps a touch of silver. If you weren't feeling queasy before you got onboard, the combination of lime green uniforms and a £10 gin and tonic should do the job. Pass the sick bag – oh no, that's right, there aren't any.
Arriving at random airports
It's all very well paying £3.99 for your flight to Stockholm, but you won't be feeling so clever when you land in a field in the middle of nowhere, surrounded by lakes and forests, with no capital city in sight. Add on the taxes, extra charges and an hour and a half taxi ride into town and suddenly the national carrier flying to the main airport is looking like a pretty good deal. Especially when you factor in the professional service and free prawn sandwich you would have got...
Bonkers booking
Ah, the joys of the online no-frills airline booking procedure... First off, let's assume you've got access to the internet (if you don't, you're pretty much stuffed, because the chances of finding a real live human to book with are about as high you being able to travel on one of the special offer days). You've then got to navigate the site without accidentally hiring a car, paying for golf clubs or adopting a small child. By the time you remember to print out your boarding pass within the correct time period, you're in serious need of a holiday...
Full-fare food and drink
The recent story about a certain airline which gave a man a sandwich and a drink after he suffered a cardiac arrest – and then charged him for it – just about sums up the no-frills airline attitude to catering. It's all about the money, money, money. So, three letters for you: B.Y.O.
Speedy boarding
Seriously, what is up with people who pay for speedy boarding? You haven't spent enough on extra taxes, credit card charges, baggage fees? Sure, whack on another hefty charge while you're at it, just so you can stand in the front of the queue and feel superior. The plane's not going anywhere until the povs at the back of the queue are on too, so save the twenty quid – you'll need it to pay for your cheese sandwich on board.</div>
Baggage restrictions
No, no, we don't really need to take anything with us on our holiday, honestly. We may be going to Norway for two weeks in January, but a toothbrush, t-shirt and a pair of flip-flops will do us just fine. The book, nappies, wet wipes and baby food ? No problem, they'll slip right into the one bag too, that's fine, don't need them at all, yes stick them in the overhead locker miles away from my seat, too. Marvellous.
No seat pocket
Remember in the old days when the seat in front of you had a pocket you could stow your bits and pieces, magazines, bottle of water etc, instead of having to strew them all over the floor? They might be saving space and weight, but when your three-year-old starts projectile vomiting and the seat belt sign's on, suddenly a seat pocket full of sick bags makes a lot of sense. Ah, sweet revenge...
Lousy legroom
Jeez, there's nothing like 29" legroom pitch and a non-reclining seat back to force you to practice your yoga moves. Like human origami, we fold our limbs into unnatural shapes and wonder why we can't feel our feet by the end of the flight. And we're relatively normal! What it's like for a 6ft 7" man, or a 7 month pregnant woman with a 20 month old on her 'lap' doesn't bear thinking about...
Surly service
OK, when you're paying more for your beer than your air fare, you can't expect silver service, but would a smile hurt? We feel for the cabin crew dealing with leery stag weekenders and bitter businessmen whose companies won't cough up for a proper airline, but it would be nice to be treated slightly more like a human being, less like a walking wallet from whom to extract as much cash as possible in a two hour period. Scratch card, perfume, magazine, £2.50 bottle of water, anyone?

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Amy Childs shows off newly-boosted bikini body in Barcelona

July 31, 2012, 4:30 am

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Filed under: Travel News

Amy Childs shows off newly-boosted bikini body in Barcelona Splash

Amy Childs has jetted off on holiday to Barcelona with her Ken-lookalike boyfriend, David Peters.

And Amy's newly-enhanced cleavage (she recently went from a 32C to a 32DD) was shown off to full effect at the beach in a pretty star-print bikini from her own collection.

Amy Childs shows off newly-boosted bikini body in Barcelona Splash

The reality TV star said she had an "amazing" time on the getaway, writing in her new! magazine column: "David and I flew to Barcelona for a minibreak last week. I've been to the city once before but it was David's first time.

"We had an amazing few days together. I love spending time with him.

"We went clubbing one night and spent our days either shopping or on the beach. It was so hot so we sunbathed and went into the sea."

But despite her perfect curves, Amy still admitted to feeling nervous about revealing her bikini body, adding: "I felt a bit self-conscious lying next to David on the beach because his stomach muscles are amazing.

"I think I might start doing sit-ups."

Trust us, you don't need to bother, Amy...

Meanwhile, it was Beyoncé's curves that earned her the top spot in a Best Female Bikini Bodies poll - as voted for by the British public last week.

Kate Middleton was snapping at her heels in the second spot (shared with Jessica Alba), and beat out her sister Pippa (4th) and Cheryl Cole (also 4th with 8.8% of the vote each), Elle 'The Body' Macpherson (6th with 7.9%) and Kim Kardashian (10th with 3.7%).

See more stars on holiday here:

Celebrities on holiday around the world

Nicole Richie in Mexico
 Nicole Richie shows off newly curvaceous figure as she holidays with DJ Sam Ronson and rocker Juliette Lewis in Los Cabos, Mexico, in September.
Lacey Turner in Florida
 Ex-EastEnders star Lacey Turner showed off her gorgeous figure in a spotty blue bikini as she enjoyed the pool at the upmarket <a href="http://www.mondrian-miami.com/en-us/#/home/" target="_blank">Mondrian Hotel</a> in Miami, where she stayed with her boyfriend, Matt. Located on the fashionable West Avenue, the Mondrian is a modern hotel just minutes from the centre of South Beach, and offers beautiful views over the Atlantic Ocean and Biscayne Bay.
Anne Hathaway in Capri
 Anne Hathaway went retro fifties on a romantic summer holiday to the Italian island of Capri with her jewellery designer beau Adam Shulman. The pair enjoyed exclusive use of fashion mogul Valentino Garavani's yacht.
David and Samantha Cameron
 The Prime Minister enjoyed a two-week holiday at a £10,000 a week villa in <a href="http://travel.aol.co.uk/2011/07/06/ten-glorious-places-to-visit-in-tuscany/">Tuscany</a> in August. The pair were snapped enjoying a coffee at the Dolcenero cafe in the town of Montevarchi.
David Beckham in Malibu
 While Victoria Beckham was resting at home with new baby daughter Harper Seven in July, David Beckham took the opportunity to treat Brooklyn to a surfing lesson at the beach in <a href="http://travel.aol.co.uk/tag/Malibu/">Malibu</a> - and got some snaps for the family album while he was at it.
Gwyneth Paltrow in Sardinia
 She's well known for her strict exercise regimes and diets, and Gwyneth Paltrow's years of 'good behaviour' have obviously paid off as she showcased a stunning bikini body in <a href="http://travel.aol.co.uk/2011/08/26/ten-reasons-why-the-stars-love-sardinia/">Sardinia</a> in July 2011. The actress enjoyed a family holiday in Italy with her children Moses, five and Apple, seven, and her godfather, legendary director Steven Spielberg. They all stayed on his £200 million luxury yacht, and were spotted leaping off the back and playing on inflatables in the water.
Helena Christensen in Ischia
 She may have been at the height of her supermodel fame in the 90s, but Helena Christensen still looked the part as she went swimming in a bikini in <a href="http://travel.aol.co.uk/2011/08/26/ten-reasons-why-the-stars-love-sardinia/">Ischia</a> in July 2011. The model-turned-photographer was on holiday in Italy for the Ischia Global Festival, which the likes of Karolina Kurkova, Gerard Butler and Leonardo DiCaprio also attended.
Sarah Harding in Ibiza
 Girls Aloud star Sarah Harding showed off her slim figure - and newly-lightened locks - in a strapless snakeskin bikini teamed with a funky-chunky cuff in <a href="http://travel.aol.co.uk/travel-guides/ibiza/">Ibiza </a>in July 2011. Sarah enjoyed a holiday on the party island with her DJ partner Tom Crane.
Kelly Brook in Ischia
 Kelly Brook visited Italy for the <a href="http://travel.aol.co.uk/2011/08/26/ten-reasons-why-the-stars-love-sardinia/">Ischia</a> Global Film and Music Festival in July 2011. The 31-year-old actress/model was looking glamorous in a printed fifities-style Jasper Conran prom dress and plimsoles, teamed with a rather posh Louis Vuitton handbag. She readily settled into the glamorous lifestyle by enjoying a trip on a yacht, before munching a holiday ice-cream and shopping for local souvenirs.
Arnold Schwarzenegger in Austria
 Former governor of California Arnold Schwarzenegger enjoyed a scenic bike ride in Salzburg with friends on a June 2011 holiday his home country, <a href="http://travel.aol.co.uk/tag/Austria/">Austria</a>. Over 170 kilometres of attractive cycle paths with 900 signs, 23 scenic bicycle routes through the city, 5,500 parking spaces and self-service stations offering free tools, bike stands, lubricating oil and compressed air for emergencies make Salzburg Austria's number one cycle city.
Abbey Clancey in Sardinia
 New mum Abbey Clancy certainly knows how to relax on holiday. Pictured here enjoying the balmy weather in sunny <a href="http://travel.aol.co.uk/2011/08/26/ten-reasons-why-the-stars-love-sardinia/">Sardinia</a> (June 2011), Abbey was taking a pre-wedding break with fiance Peter Crouch and their  baby daughter Sophia . The couple are staying at the four-star Sheraton Porto Cervo Hotel, which boasts its own private beach on the exclusive Costa Smerelda.
Geri Halliwell in the south of France
 Former Spice Girl Geri Halliwell is pictured here enjoying a family holiday in the <a href="http://travel.aol.co.uk/2011/02/23/where-to-go-in-the-cote-dazure/" target="_blank">south of France</a> (June 2011). Geri looked happy and relaxed as she lazed on a private yacht with boyfriend Henry Beckwith and five year old daughter Bluebell. The yellow polka dot bikini she's wearing here is part of her own collection from high street store Next.
Adriana de Moura in Miami
 Adriana de Moura looked pretty in pink as she frolicked and sunbathed on <a href="http://travel.aol.co.uk/tag/Miami/">Miami'</a>s South Beach (March 2011). It's clear the Brazillian star takes care of herself, and she's not just a pretty face. The Brazililan star claims to speaks five languages, she's a full time mum and a respected art curator. Why Miami? For glitz, glamour and nightlife, Miami is the place to be. Perfect for all socialites in need of a tan
Gwen Stefani in Cannes
 Gwen Stefani showed off her wash-board abs as she soaked up the sun on luxury yacht Luna in St Jean Cap Ferrat, <a href="http://travel.aol.co.uk/2011/02/23/where-to-go-in-the-cote-dazure/">Cote d'Azur</a> in May 2011. Why here? A more pertinent question might be: why not? Its stunning scenery, high-end boutiques and fabulous restaurants are a honeypot for the rich and famous.
Naomi Campbell in Florida
 Here's Naomi Campbell looking cool and relaxed in <a href="http://travel.aol.co.uk/tag/Miami/">Miami</a> Florida. The supermodel was spotted having a long lunch with Russian businessman Vladislav Doroni in March 2011.
Taylor Swift in The Bahamas
 American singer Taylor Swift certainly knows how to let her hair down. She's pictured here on a holiday in the paradise archipelago of the <a href="http://travel.aol.co.uk/tag/Bahamas/">Bahamas</a> in February 2011. What's so special about the Bahamas? This place could go under the word 'paradise' in the dictionary: think miles of talcum powder sand, the world's third largest barrier reef, not to mention some of the world's friendliest people...
Boris Becker in Florida
 Aah, aren't they sweet? This pic of the tennis star cuddling up with his wife Lilly on a sunbed was taken when they took a family holiday in <a href="http://travel.aol.co.uk/tag/Miami/">Miami </a>(spring 2011) with their son Amadeus.
Zoe Ball in Miami
 Former party girl Zoe Ball looks quite the yummy mummy in <a href="http://travel.aol.co.uk/tag/Miami/">Miami</a>, Florida as she takes son Woody for a spin on a jet ski. Miami beach is a particularly popular holiday destination for families, with its spectacular beachfront hotels. And it's great for watersports lovers, too.
Noémi Lenoir soaks up the Florida sunshine
 French model Noémie Lenoir relaxed in Florida in March 2011. Noémi, who appeared to be taking a solo holiday, laughed and joked with pool attendants and appeared relaxed happy and healthy again after a tumultuous year. The former M&S lingerie model hit the headlines a while ago after a suicide attempt following her split with footballer Claude Makélélé, the father of her six year old son. But all that now seems a lifetime ago. Like many celebs, she has picked <a href="http://travel.aol.co.uk/tag/Miami/">Miami </a>as the place to chill out and soak up some sun. And who can blame her? Florida is a perfect place to go for an easy winter getaway...
Cat Deeley in Mexico
 Cat Deeley is pictured here taking a break from a hectic schedule to top up her tan in Capo, Mexico. She has been presenting So You Think You Can Dance Stateside, spending much of her time jetting between LA and London, so she was grabbing the chance to chill. What's so good about Mexcio?  Cat picked a great spot: from the archaeology of the Mayan ruins to Cancun's famous beaches and nightlife, Mexico - land of amazing food and tequila - is the perfect place for letting your hair down.
Courteney Cox in Hawaii
 Courteney Cox looks relaxed as she sits on the beach in <a href="http://travel.aol.co.uk/tag/Miami/">Hawaii</a>, taking a break from shooting scenes for her new TV comedy, Cougar Town. The star jetted off to Oahu with her co-star Brian Van Holt (with whom she is rumoured to be having a new relationship). Why Hawaii? Beaches, parties, nightlife... go here for some hedonistic fun!
Denise Richards in Hawaii
 Actress and Bond Girl Denise Richards rocks the beach babe look in <a href="http://travel.aol.co.uk/tag/Miami/">Hawaii</a>. The former wife of Charlie Sheen is pictured here making a splash. She was on holiday with her two daughters and her father but the absence of her new man, musician Nikki Sixx, led to tabloid rumours that the pair had split... Why here? This Pacific Ocean paradise offers year-round sunshine and arguably some of the best surfing in the world.
Rosie Huntington-Whiteley and Jason Statham in St Bart's
 It looks as if love is in the air for model Rosie Huntington-Whiteley and her British beau Jason Statham spend time chillaxing St Bart's on holiday. What's so special about St Barts?  A hit with A-listers and VIPs, this island is known as the pearl of the Caribbean. Expect to spot iguanas, luxury yachts, exclusive designer boutiques and  a Hollywood starlet or three...
Melanie Chisholm and Thomas Starr in Barbados
 Former Sporty Spice Melanie Chisholm was spotted taking to the water with daughter Scarlet, nearly two years old, while on holiday in <a href="http://travel.aol.co.uk/tag/Miami/">Barbados</a>. Mel was taking a break with partner Thomas Starr before she started work on her fifth solo album.
Olivia Palermo in St Bart's
 American model and actress Olivia Palermo seems to be having the time of her life in St Barts as she gets a lift along the the beach from her boyfriend Johannes Huebl.Known as the millionaire's playground, St Bart's has everything to offer for a romantic holiday, from chic luxury accommodation, gourmet cuisine, crystal clear tropical waters and endless sandy beaches. A hit with honeymooners, you can drive round the entire island in 90 minutes.
Sarah Harding in the Maldives with Tom Crane
 Girls Aloud star Sarah Harding and DJ Tom Crane are pictured here arriving home from a romantic holiday in the <a href="http://travel.aol.co.uk/travel-guides/Maldives/">Maldives</a>, during which they got engaged. Tom popped the question on New Year's Eve then took to Twitter to tell his followers: 'I feel like the luckiest man in the world!!!'. What's so special about the Maldives? This chain of 1,200 mostly uninhabited islands in the Indian ocean offers a tropical paradise for beach lovers. For more, see fab review of the <a href="http://travel.aol.co.uk/2011/02/11/the-maldives-are-marvellous-especially-when-you-stay-here/" target="_blank">W Hotel Maldives</a>, where Kate Moss was spotted!
Serena Williams in Miami
 Tennis champ Serena Williams, who is pictured here recovering from injury earlier this year, appeared to be back to her old self as she took a holiday with friends in <a href="http://travel.aol.co.uk/travel-guides/Maldives/">Miami</a>, Florida. The 29-year-old tennis player has been sidelined from her sport since claiming her 13th Grand Slam title at Wimbledon last July. Why Miami? It's the perfect place to visit with your mates: go there for sun, fun and some serious downtime.
Jeremy Clarkson in Barbados
 Jeremy Clarkson and his wife of 18 years, Frances, put on a united front  as they had fun in the sun on a<a href="http://travel.aol.co.uk/travel-guides/barbados/"> Barbados </a>beach amid rumours he is having an alleged affair. The Top Gear presenter and his wife, who is also his manager, were seen hitting the jet skis and a speedboat as they enjoyed the high life in the Caribbean paradise. Why Barbados? If you love to be active, this is your perfect destination. Watersports lovers beware: you'll never want to leave...
Charlotte Church in Beverley Hills
 Charlotte Church was being unusually bashful as she soaked up the sun poolside in <a href="http://travel.aol.co.uk/travel-guides/barbados/">LA</a>. The singer and TV host was spotted relaxing at the <a href="http://www.beverlyhillshotel.com/" target="_blank">Beverly Hills Hotel,</a> but covered up her monochrome bikini with a loose grey vest top. The singer was on holiday with her children, daughter Ruby Megan, three, and two-year-old son Dexter Lloyd, who she shares with her former partner Welsh rugby international Gavin Henson. The 25-year-old was on mummy duty at the pool, armed with children's floats and a Spider-Man toy.
Coleen Rooney
 Coleen Rooney showed off an array of different bikinis on her June 2011 holiday to <a href="http://www.beverlyhillshotel.com/">Barbados</a>. Her cornflower-blue two-piece was particularly pretty and just happened to match her son Kai's beachwear, too.
Kelly Brook in Mykonos
 Kelly Brook had a Bond girl moment  as she emerged from the ocean in a gold-accented purple swimsuit while on holiday in Mykonos, <a href="http://www.beverlyhillshotel.com/">Greece</a>, in June 2011. The actress/model was enjoying a romantic holiday with her rugby-playing boyfriend Thom Evans, where they were snapped lazing on the beach, splashing in the sea, and taking pics for their holiday album.
Abbey Crouch in Dubai
 Presenter and model Abbey Crouch showed off her streamline figure at the swanky Le Royal Meridien Beach hotel in Dubai, where she enjoyed some family time with hubby Peter and 15-month-old daughter Sophia. Yummy mummy alert!
Denise Van Outen in Dubai
 Denise jetted off to the Grosvenor House Hotel in Dubai for a girly weekend. Looks like she still has her infamous 90s figure in tact! Just how does she do it??
Elle MacPherson in Australia
 And they call her 'The Body' because... Ah yes, here's why. Elle turned heads when she went for a surf in Byron Bay back in December 2011.
LeAnne Rimes in Malibu
 LeAnne Rimes took to the beach and flaunted her new super-streamline figure back in August 2011.
Gwyneth Paltrow in Italy
 Gwyneth Paltrow showed off the benefits of a strict diet while on holiday in Porto Cervo, Sardinia.
Halle Berry in Malibu
 Whether she's emerging from the sea in a Bond movie or taking a jog along the sand with her daughter, Halle Berry never fails to look beach-beautiful.

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Beyoncé and Jay-Z rent Hamptons holiday home for £250k a month

July 31, 2012, 5:08 am

≫ Next: German tourist 'tout' arrested with £23k worth of Olympics tickets

≪ Previous: Amy Childs shows off newly-boosted bikini body in Barcelona

Filed under: Travel News

Beyoncé and Jay-Z are showing off their true superstar credentials by holidaying in a Hamptons mansion - at a cost of £250,000 for one month.

The couple are splashing out the lottery-sized lump sum on a stunning pad in the upmarket New York holiday destination.

The pair will spend the whole of August with their daughter Blue Ivy in the sprawling accommodation, which boasts a 60ft heated swimming pool, a spa, a bowling alley, 12 bedrooms, and a tennis court, according to The Sun.

How much? Beyoncé and Jay-Z rent Hamptons holiday home for £250k a month PA

And that's not all; the lust list continues with a squash court, a skateboard half-pipe, a rock-climbing wall, a cinema, a basketball court, a virtual golf course, and a recording studio.

According to the Daily Mail, the 11-acre property was built by developer Joe Farrell, and is currently on the market for £35 million.

The star couple have a love for luxury holidays, enjoying a getaway on a plush yacht in Hvar, Croatia, last year.

Beyoncé shared a video clip on hr blog this spring where she can be seen pointing out an unusual blue tree, saying: "I think it's Blue Ivy, which would be quite appropriate!"

Tourism to Hvar reportedly increased after the video was posted in April, and the town's major Pjerino Bebic responded by making Blue Ivy an honorary citizen.

In a letter to the family he wrote: "The story of the origin of the name of your daughter has brought enormous media attention and therefore tourist promotion to the town and island of Hvar.

"Because of this, I have decided to confer on your daughter the status of honorary citizen of the town of Hvar."

See more stunning star holiday homes here:

Holiday homes of the stars

The Beckhams' French chateau
 After staying at Elton John’s south of France home on their regular visits to the area, Victoria and David Beckham bought their own mansion, Le Domaine Saint-Vincent, in 2003 for £1.5 million. The pair fell in love with the 19th-century house that’s near the charming village of Bargemon in the Var. It’s said to feature 15 bedrooms, a swimming pool, chapel and a farm where the caretaker lives. Le Domaine Saint-Vincent is located in rural Provence and is just 25 miles away from the beaches of the Cote d’Azur for when Victoria wants to go shopping in Saint-Tropez or sunbathing in Antibes.
George Clooney's Lake Como mansion
 George Clooney’s Italian holiday home, Villa Oleandra has been in and out of the press since he bought the 30-room lakeside estate in 2001 for £6.5 million. It’s been host to some of the biggest A-list celebs including Brangelina and the Beckhams, has attracted swarms of paparazzi, made house prices on Lake Como rocket and was even the scene of a bomb scare! The villa is said to have an outdoor theater, large swimming pool, tennis courts and a garage for his motorcycles.
George Michael's Australian pad
 In 2010 George Michael fell in love with Australia and bought a £3.9 million holiday home near Sydney. The contemporary house boasts spectacular views of the sea, five bedrooms, an infinity pool and manicured gardens. The property is on Whale Beach Peninsula and also features a 40-foot open plan living room, a long reception, a study with a fireplace and huge glass doors to give an open feel within the house’s three levels.
Johnny Depp's Italian palazzo
 After shooting the film The Tourist in beautiful Venice, Johnny Depp splashed out on the £8.5 million Palazzo Dona Sangiantoffetti, which dates back to the 17th century. The palace, set on Canal Grande was one of the only available buildings overlooking the canal when Depp bought it at the beginning of this year. The property was bought as another holiday home for the actor and his family, and needs restoring before they can settle in. Its features include high decorated ceilings, a roof platform and elaborate columns.
Kate Moss's Cotswolds country house
 When supermodel Kate Moss isn’t out and about in London or off on a photoshoot somewhere exotic, she likes to spend time at her 10-bedroom Grade II-listed mansion in the Oxfordshire Cotswold village of Little Farringdon. Since buying the £2 million property in 2004, Kate’s been a regular in the village and has been spotted driving around in her black cab. She loves her holiday home so much that she even applied for planning permission to turn an old grain store on the estate into a guest room and wanted to open a pub in the area.
Kylie Minogue's Spanish love nest
 In 2009 Kylie Minogue showed just how serious she was about her boyfriend Andres Segura when she bought a £450,000 villa close to where his family live in Tossa de Mar on the Costa Brava. The singer’s low-key purchase in model Andres’ hometown is close to his dad’s bar and restaurant, which he plans to take over in the future. Kylie once stunned locals when she put in a shift at the bar!
Gwyneth Paltrow and Chris Martin's Hamptons haven
 The actor and musician bought their home in the exclusive Amagansett hamlet in New York’s Hamptons in 2006 for $5.4 million. The house’s features include minimalist and feminine interiors, a swimming pool, a large kitchen and five bedrooms. It was designed by Gwyneth who wanted the home to be functional for her family and reflect her individual style.
Charles and Camilla's Welsh retreat
 After years of searching for the perfect holiday retreat, Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall bought the £1.2 million Llwynywermod farmhouse in 2006. The three-bedroom estate in Wales’ Brecon Beacons National Park is set in a 190-acre organic farm and includes tasteful and elegant interiors, classic Welsh furniture and clues of its owners scattered throughout the house – there’s a Royal crest above the fireplace! When the prince is away you can rent the stone farmhouse that’s complete with a master bedroom, twin beds, a vaulted dining hall and a cosy living room.
The Rooneys' Barbados villa
 Wayne and Coleen Rooney enjoy nothing better than lounging in their £5 million whitewashed villa in Barbados when they’re in need of a holiday. The footballer and his WAG bought the ultra-luxe property on the island’s Royal Westmoreland development in 2010. The villa boasts six bedrooms, gorgeous sea views, an infinity pool and colonial-style interiors. As well as the main house, there’s a detached two-bedroom cottage for any extra guests the Rooneys invite and they have a host of celebrity neighbours including Rio Ferdinand, Gary Lineker and Freddie Flintoff.
Sarah Jessica Parker and Matthew Broderick's Irish hideaway
 When the Sex and the City star and her husband need a break from New York’s Manhattan they head to their Irish holiday home in the quaint village of Kilcar, Donegal. The cottage is in the same area where Matthew Broderick’s family lives and is visited by the actors over the summer. Sarah Jessica Parker is said to have liked Ireland so much that she wanted to move there permanently, where she could learn to knit!

↧

German tourist 'tout' arrested with £23k worth of Olympics tickets

August 1, 2012, 12:10 am

≫ Next: Would you pay more for a child-free flight?

≪ Previous: Beyoncé and Jay-Z rent Hamptons holiday home for £250k a month

Filed under: Travel News

German tourist arrested with £23k worth of Olympics tickets Wolfgang Menzel was arrested at the Olympics opening ceremony: PA

A German tourist tout has been arrested in London with Olympics tickets worth more than £23,000.

Wolfgang Menzel was caught by police after they spotted him selling opening ceremony tickets in Stratford for £1,100 each.

After appearing in court, he was fined £435.

The mortgage broker had 31 tickets to different events in his pockets, and police found a further 20 tickets in his hotel room in Bloomsbury.

According to the Metro, Menzel said he was a "genuine sports fan" who had planned to attend a number of events but got carried away and bought too many tickets.

After failed attempts to sell to family and friends, he thought he would try and recoup his money by selling them here, and was reportedly unaware it was illegal.

Nicole Lody, defending, said: "He wasn't aware that he couldn't sell them in the UK because in Germany tickets are being advertised very widely on the internet and eBay.

"He has suffered a significant loss - all his tickets have been seized. He is not going to the Olympic Games and that money is lost.

"He is clearly very remorseful and embarrassed that he is in court today."

District judge Mark Radway said he believed Menzel was not aware he wasn't allowed to re-sell the tickets in Britain, which is why he was fined a small amount that was "based on a week's wages".

Twenty ways to escape the Olympics (and the rain)

Wine and dine in a country retreat
 Treat yourself to a food and wine extravaganza at <a href="http://www.the-vineyard.co.uk" target="_blank">The Vineyard</a> at Stockcross, Berkshire, where they're celebrating the British countryside in gastronomic style. Resident UK Sommelier of the Year 2011, Yohann Jousselin MS, will be on hand to explain everything you need to know about the vino on offer. Two nights including breakfast, a seven-course dining experience accompanied by 12 glasses of matching wines, free Hunter wellies and the chance to go pony hacking or clay pigeon shooting costs from £519 per person based on two sharing.
Break for the border in northern Cyprus
 The political isolation of the Turkish North of Cyprus means it's still relatively unspoilt and uncommercialised (this is one of the few places in the world still devoid of Starbucks and McDonalds). Attractions range from beautiful beaches to historical icons, including crusader castles and the ancient Roman city of Salamis. <a href="http://www.cyprusparadise.com/" target="_blank">Cyprus Paradise</a> is offering seven nights' B&B at the family-run Altinkaya Hotel on the outskirts of Kyrenia from £399 pp including flights from London Stansted in August.
Float away in the Lake District
 Where better to escape than a five-star Cumbrian inn on the pretty River Lune?  The 17th century <a href="http://sun-inn.info" target="_blank">Sun Inn</a> is running a month-long 'bank holiday' package throughout August for discerning travellers looking for a quintessentially English summer getaway. Nestled in the unspoilt market town of Kirkby Lonsdale, prices start at £230 for a three-night break.
Go Greek for the Olympics
 Book yourself into a Greek villa and get 25 per cent off a selection available in July and August with <a href="http://www.homeaway.co.uk/p498538">HomeAway.co.uk.</a> This villa (pictured), overloking the Cretan village of Elounda, boasts both sea and mountain views and sun terraces galore. From £675 for one week in August, sleeps six.
Find your own hideaway in the Brecon Beacons
 Save up to 20 per cent on several properties still available during the Olympic period with Brecon Cottages. They are proud to say that some of their cottages don't even have TVs or phone reception, let alone wi-fi. Check out <a href="http://www.breconcottages.com/cottage-details/GILFC" target="_blank">Gilfach Cabin</a> in a very sleep hamlet, for £365 per week, sleeping four, or  <a href="http://www.breconcottages.com/cottage-details/COACH" target="_blank">Coachingmans' Cottage</a>, perfect for a romantic break, £400 per week, sleeps two.
Get delusions of grandeur - at a fraction of the price
 The <a href="http://www.thewilliamcecil.co.uk/" target="_blank">William Cecil </a>on Lincolnshire's Burghley Estate and The <a href="http://www.elephanthotel.co.uk/" target="_blank">Elephant at Pangbourne</a> in Berkshire are both slashing their prices this season. Between July 26 and August 26 one night at either hotel costs just £20.12 per person, per night, including a full English breakfast, representing a saving more than 65 per cent. Prices are based on two adults sharing a classic room - upgrades are available at an additional cost. Rooms are being allocated to this promotion on a first come, first served basis. 
$Get delusions of grandeur - at a fraction of the price$
Go wild on your own island
 in the middle of <a href="http://www.tattershall-lakes.com/TouringAndCamping/" target="_blank">Tattershall Lakes</a> in Lincolnshire is an island which now has room for 12 standard tent pitches for Wild Camping. Kick back with just a tent, a camp fire and the great outdoors. Prices for Wild Camping lead in at £99 for six people for a seven-night stay (that's just over £2 a day per person - bargain!).
Sleep in a castle in Ireland
 Whisk yourself away to the 17th century <a href="http://www.hastingshotels.com/ballygally-castle/" target="_blank">Ballygally Castle</a> in County Antrim for only £70 per person per night this summer (based on two sharing). Breakfast and afternoon tea is included. Take in the views (you can see Scotland on a clear day) and a spectacular drive an hour down the road to see the famous Giant's Causeway, one of the UK's natural wonders.
Set sail in Croatia
 Climb aboard a yacht in Croatia on an eight-day sailing holiday for £752 per person (this includes a 15 per cent off deal). There's an experienced crew, so you can help to sail the boat, learn the ropes or simply relax on board. Price includes accommodation on an eight-berth boat, snorkelling equipment, breakfasts and lunches. Book with <a href="http://www.intrepidtravel.com/" target="_blank">Intrepid Travel</a>. There are spaces available on boats from Primosten to Dubrovnik on Saturday 28 July and Saturday 4 August. The same itinerary runs in reverse from Dubrovnik to Primosten.
Escape to a beautiful summer garden
 Once the home of Poet Laureate, Alfred Lord Tennyson, <a href="http://www.grayshottspa.com" target="_blank">Grayshott Spa</a> is set in 47 acres of landscaped gardens adjoining 700 acres of National Trust Land. Special offer: 20.12 per cent discount when stays are taken during the Olympics. Prices start at £307 per person for two nights including three spa treatments. Stays to be taken 27th July – 12th August inclusive.
Make for Morocco
 Bet you've never thought of running away to a rustic-chic Kasbah style hotel set in a rose farm. The Beldi Country Club boasts Atlas Mountain views, restricted wi-fi, no phones and no TVs – encouraging guests to ‘turn off and tune in’. A seven-night Exotic Escapism package costs from £445 per person, including transfers, B&B and a excursion for two to Lake Lalla Takerkoust with local wines and picnic lunch. There's also a traditional hammam and scrub thrown in for good measure. Book with <a href="http://www.boutiquesouk.com/" target="_blank">boutiquesouk.com</a>.
Find some peace in Scotland
 <a href="http://www.devere-hotels.co.uk/hotel-lodges/locations/cameron-house.html" target="_blank">Cameron House</a> on Loch Lomond is a world away from the hustle and bustle of the Big Smoke.Take in the fresh air and wonderful scenery and treat yourself to a special 'triathlon' spa package which includes a Swedish back massage to soothe aching muscles, facial for an athlete’s glow, and a choice of a luxurious file and polish (for either fingers or toes) or a full body energising scrub. Prices for The Carrick Triathlon start from £149.50 per person.
See picture postcards in the French Alps
 The picturesque French Alpine village of Chamonix, which sits beneath the dazzling Mont Blanc, is hosting a series of walks with local photographer Teresa Kaufman in August. Discover little-known areas offering new and original view-points and meet local artists, craftsmen, and chefs along the way.  Stay at the Chalet Hotel Sapiniere with <a href="http://www.inghams.co.uk/">www.inghams.co.uk</a> from £499 per person, saving £100 each, departing 1 August 2012. Price includes 7 nights, return flights from Gatwick. ransomers, packed lunches and free afternoon tea and cakes.
Go walking on Jersey's shores
 <a href="http://www.celtic-trails.com" target="_blank">Celtic-trails</a> is offering a  six-night walking break in Jersey from £525 per person based on two sharing, including luggage transfers, taxi transfers between accommodation and path where necessary, walk pack with maps and guidebook. Take the Jersey ‘Round Island Walk’, a 48-mile circuit of the island's beautiful coastline. Stay in three- and four-star guest houses en route. There are lashings of cream teas and wonderful seafood suppers to boot.
See an Italian opera in Tuscany
 <a href="http://www.winetours.co.uk/tours/view/180/independent-opera-puccini-festival" target="_blank">Arblaster & Clarke Wine Tours</a> is offering a four-night  opera holiday during the Puccini Festival in Lucca, Tuscany from 9 – 12 August for £799 per person. Staying in a traditional four-star hotel in the centre of Lucca, you'll be celebrating some of Puccini’s much-loved works at the completely rebuilt lakeside theatre near Puccini’s house at Torre del Lago. First class tickets to the opera of your choice and the option of attending La Bohème, Madama Butterfly or Verdi’s La Traviata are included. Extra tickets are available on request.
Hide away in the mountains of Sicily
 Escape to Sicily's lovely Madonie mountain range and enjoy fresh air, clear blue skies and local organic produce. Stay at Ai Mulini, an 18th century farmhouse with a panoramic pool, set amongst rugged cliffs and hidden villages. The farmhouse is just outside Polizzi Generosa, and beaches at Cefalu are around 40 minutes' drive away. One week in July or August starts at £1700 (sleeps eight), reduced from £1900.  Further information from <a href="http://www.soloSicily.com " target="_blank">solosicily.com</a>.
Step back in time in the Italian Alps
 If you want to be really remote, make for the North West Italian Alpine village of Champoluc, which dates back to the 14th century. It is only accessible by an old rustic trail (your luggage is carried for you by a four-by-four) - and the walking is spectacular. Live it up in rustic luxury at <a href="http://www.hotelleriedemascognaz.com/" target="_blank">Hotellerie Mascognaz</a>, which perches high above the village. Foodies will not be disappointed: Jambon de Bosses and Fontina cheese herald from here. From €230 per night per couple, half-board.
Oh this year, we're off to sunny Spain...
 Head for the sun and indulge in an active family break at<a href="http://www.prestigeholidays.co.uk/La-Manga-Club/" target="_blank"> La Manga Club</a>, Spain. Former Olympic athlete Nick Buckfield will be hosting a variety of athletics and fitness courses (but don't worry - they're not compulsory). A family of four sharing two interconnecting rooms for a week at the five-star Hotel La Manga Club Principe Felipe in August costs £4,120 with Prestige Holidays and includes kids clubs and free meals for children under five, return flights from Gatwick and private transfers.
Snap up a cut-price escape to the Maldives
 We just had to put a dream holiday in this gallery - if only to admire the picture. <a href="http://www.thomson.co.uk" target="_blank">Thomson</a> is offering seven nights all-inclusive at <a href="http://olhuvelimaldives.com/island/island.php" target="_blank">Olhuveli Beach & Spa Resort</a> in the Maldives from £1,619 per person (saving £477 each), based on two  sharing. Departuring 29 July, the price includes return flights from Gatwick, accommodation in a deluxe room overlooking the beach and speedboat transfers. The only drawback is you won't want to come home.
Disappear to Devon
 Take in the views over sparkling Lyme Bay, stroll through the rolling green hills of the glorious Sid Valley and explore the Jurassic Coast. Stay at <a href="http://www.sidmouth-harbour-hotel.co.uk/" target="_blank">Sidmouth Harbour Hotel</a> for £60 per person per night, relax in the garden by the heated outdoor pool, unwind on the sun terrace with a cool drink and simply enjoy the view... bliss.

↧

Would you pay more for a child-free flight?

August 1, 2012, 3:51 am

≫ Next: How to camp and have fun too

≪ Previous: German tourist 'tout' arrested with £23k worth of Olympics tickets

Filed under: Family holidays

Tripadvisor survey finds one-third of British adults would pay more for a flight with no children Rex

A new survey has revealed that one in three Brits would pay more for a child-free flight.

The news comes just as the the school holiday is in full swing - and delivers yet another bitter blow to frazzled parents who have already become branded the social pariahs of air travel.

Around 2,000 travellers were questioned in the Tripadvisor survey, which found that 37 per cent of British adults would choose to buy a more expensive ticket to avoid having to share their flight with children.

But the biggest gripe of all among disgruntled Brits isn't the kids - it's the parents who don't control their own children: 22 per cent said they were frustrated by the lack of discipline they had witnessed while travelling.

View Poll

However, parents need not feel too despondent, as the results of the new survey are an improvement on the previous one. Last year, a similar Tripadvisor survey found that more than half of adults (53 per cent) were prepared to pay more to fly without children. Could this suggest that we're actually in danger of becoming more tolerant air travellers? Watch this space.

In the meantime, for all those desperate to get away from little ones for a while, we asked Tripadvisor to name its top ten hotels for adults, and here's what they said...

Tripadvisor's top ten hotels for grown-ups

Apsenti Couples Only, Mykonos, Greece
 An intimate boutique hotel located on the west side of the island, <a href="http://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Hotel_Review-g805488-d609327-Reviews-Apsenti_Couples_Only_Mykonos-Agios_Ioannis_Mykonos_Cyclades.html" target="_blank">Apsenti </a>is a serene getaway featuring an outdoor plunge pool and Jacuzzi rooms – ideal for guests to relax and watch the world go by. One Tripadvisor reviewer says: “It was fantastic - very romantic, relaxing and chilled out.”
Dreams Luxury Suites, Imerovigli, Greece
 This <a href="http://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Hotel_Review-g635864-d667356-Reviews-Dreams_Luxury_Suites-Imerovigli_Santorini_Cyclades.html" target="_blank">tranquil property</a> is known for its beauty and unique personality. Featuring four luxury suites, each distinctively designed; guests can relax on the terraces while being mesmerised by the sights of the Caldera. As one Tripadvisor traveller says: “I stayed here with my girlfriend and it is quite simply the best luxury hotel I've ever stayed at. The views from this hotel are truly stunning with direct views of the volcano and surrounding sea, as well as the towns in Santorini.”
Hotel Miramar, Opatija, Croatia
 Built in 1876 and renovated in the style of Belle Époque (the beautiful era), the décor featured in <a href="http://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Hotel_Review-g297515-d586520-Reviews-Hotel_Miramar-Opatija_Primorje_Gorski_Kotar_County.html" target="_blank">Hotel Miramar</a> evokes opulence and elegance throughout. “We spent our honeymoon at Hotel Miramar and we absolutely loved every second of our stay. The food was fantastic and the setting on the terrace is breath-taking and very romantic,” says one Tripadvisor reviewer.
Hotel Vila Grale Praia, Albufeira, Portugal
 Algarve coast, <a href="http://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Hotel_Review-g189112-d265863-Reviews-Hotel_Vila_Gale_Praia-Albufeira_Algarve.html" target="_blank">Hotel Vila Gale Praia </a>offers picturesque views of a palm tree garden and is a short distance from restaurants, shops and four other beaches. One Tripadvisor reviewr says: “We stayed here during our honeymoon and I wish we had stayed longer. It is a great, relaxing and romantic place to stay.”
Grace Santorini Hotel, Imerovigli, Greece
 Located high above the Caldera, <a href="http://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Hotel_Review-g635864-d1088707-Reviews-Grace_Santorini_Hotel-Imerovigli_Santorini_Cyclades.html" target="_blank">Grace Santorini Hotel </a>boasts enviable views of the famed Santorini sunset over the Aegean Sea from its luxury suites and balconies. One Tripadvisor reviewer says: “You will not find a more perfect hotel anywhere! Fantastic location, amazing staff, superb rooms, stunning views and wonderful food."
East Hotel, Hamburg, Germany
 A bespoke designer hotel adorned with handmade furnishings, natural fabrics and textures, <a href="http://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Hotel_Review-g187331-d446868-Reviews-East_Hotel-Hamburg.html" target="_blank">East Hotel </a>prides itself on its unique visual design and individual scents in each area. As one Tripadvisor traveller says: “This is a superb hotel featuring modern and quirky styling, and the food in the restaurant was fantastic.”
Carmen de la Alcubilla del Caracol, Granada, Spain
 Located on the slopes of the Alhambra, <a href="http://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Hotel_Review-g187441-d596612-Reviews-Carmen_de_la_Alcubilla_del_Caracol-Granada_Province_of_Granada_Andalucia.html" target="_blank">Carmen de la Alcubilla del Caracol</a> offers outstanding panoramic views of Sierra Nevada and Granada. Each room has been designed to maintain the character and style of a traditional Granada house, featuring antique furniture and art. One Tripadvisor traveller says: “This is a remarkable hotel with stunning views. The rooms are comfortable and the terrace is delightful.”
Villa St Maxime, St-Paul-de-Vence, France
 This luxury hotel surrounded by elegant gardens offers breath-taking views of the Riviera. Beautifully decorated with marble and sleek art, this charming property is a wonderful base to unwind. As one Tripadvisor reviewer says: “My husband and I just spent two nights at <a href="http://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Hotel_Review-g187240-d310640-Reviews-Villa_St_Maxime-St_Paul_de_Vence_French_Riviera_Cote_d_Azur_Provence.html" target="_blank">Villa St. Maxime</a> and it was perfect.”
Palazzo Talamo, Positano, Italy
 With terraces offering idyllic sea views from each room, guests can admire the striking sights of the Amalfi Coast. Located close to the historic centre of Amalfi, restaurants, bars, shops and beaches are within walking distance for all to explore. One Tripadvisor reviewer says: “This is an amazingly beautiful place to stay and the ocean view right from our room is breath-taking.” Visit <a href="http://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Hotel_Review-g194863-d616570-Reviews-Palazzo_Talamo-Positano_Amalfi_Coast_Campania.html">Palazzo Talamo.</a>
Hotel Resort and Spa Miramonti, Rota d'Imagna, Italy
 Nestled in the heart of Imagna Valley, the spectacular scenery of the Valley and mountains make <a href="http://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Hotel_Review-g968270-d288665-Reviews-Hotel_Resort_Spa_Miramonti-Rota_d_Imagna_Bergamo_Province_Lombardy.html" target="_blank">Hotel Resort & Spa Miramonti</a> a splendid location to disconnect and marvel at nature. As one Tripadvisor traveller says: “A stunning location. You cannot fail to be impressed by both the quality of accommodation, friendly service and views you will remember for a long time to come.”

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How to camp and have fun too

August 1, 2012, 6:57 am

≫ Next: One in ten cruisers drop their phones overboard

≪ Previous: Would you pay more for a child-free flight?

Filed under: Family holidays

A lighter wallet is no obstacle to a brighter summer this year (although we can't say the same for the weather!). Check out our top tips for camping and make sure your holiday goes without a hitch.

How to be a happy camper

Choose your spot with caution
 That remote cliffside spot overlooking the ocean might seem lovely on a sunny afternoon but it might not seem that way in gail force winds at 3am. By all means look for a pitch with a good view - the beauty of camping is that it can afford you a location that not even the best hotels can beat - but never underestimate the value of a sheltered spot. Ever.
Go for bog standards
 A desperate dash across an enormous muddy field in the dead of night is enough to put you off camping for life (we're speaking from experience) - so anticipate the call of nature before you bed down for the night, or make sure the loos aren't a long trek from where you'll be calling home.
Think about your gadgets
 Technically speaking a camping trip ought to be gadget free to allow you to unplug and get back to nature. But an ipod loaded with bedtime stories is a brilliant way to lull little kids to sleep under canvas and the <a href="http://www.soundasleeppillow.co.uk">Sound Asleep kids speaker pillow</a> is a genius invention for helping them chill out when it's time to bed down.
Always check the showers before you pitch your tent
 Some campsites offer free hot showers all day long, others at set times of the day, and some will charge you an arm and leg for a luke-warm six second shower. It pays to know what you're in for before you're half naked, shower gel poised.
Get toilet-savvy
 Word up for glow-in-the-dark toilet roll. We're not joking - it's wonderful stuff, and not just for the purpose for which is what intended, either. What other practical camping accessory can help you find your way out of your sleeping bag in the dead of night? <a href="http://www.glow.co.uk/glow-in-the-dark-toilet-roll.html">glow.co.uk</a>
Don't leave home without some luxuries
 Little treats - like fresh coffee or a decent bottle of Scotch - are essentials for a relaxing camping adventure. it's tempting to leave such things out when every square inch of the car is packed with camping accoutrements - but don't. You'll thank us for this.
Take some games
 Old-fashioned family pursuits like playing card games come into their own on camping trips, helping you unwind and rediscover simple pleasures, far from the distractions of the digital age. Try Uno for all-age family fun.
Think about food
 Plan your food, and don't forget to figure out how you're going to cook it. Check out the Cool Camping Cookbook for inspiration and remember that eating outdoors is one of the true pleasures of sleeping under the stars. And don't forget the marshmallows for the campfire.
Above all, have fun
 If it's not fun you're doing it wrong, so try not to stress about midges, the lack of en-suite facilities or the state of the showers or the fact that it's er, raining again. Remember - it's an experience. And you're making memories - so make 'em good ones!
Be choosy about where you camp
 Not all campsites are created equal, and a shabby site can make the difference between a brilliant camping holiday and a disaster. Do some proper research into the facilities, and pay close attention to what other campers have to say about the site. Check out the <a href="http://www.campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk">Camping and Caravanning Club</a> for reliable guides to sites across the UK.

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One in ten cruisers drop their phones overboard

August 1, 2012, 9:49 pm

≫ Next: Swimmers disturbed as elephant takes a drink from their pool

≪ Previous: How to camp and have fun too

Filed under: Cruises

If you've ever accidently dropped your mobile phone or MP3 player overboard while on a cruise, you're not alone, as new research has found that one in ten cruisers dropped technology products into the sea while on holiday last year.

The study by cruise travel agent bonvoyage.co.uk found that the average value for each product dropped was £89.46 and in a year alone this would equate to over £16.5 million worth of technology items when considering the 1.7 million people who embarked on a cruise from the UK last year.

Bonvoyage.co.uk initially asked the 1,151 avid cruisers polled if they had accidentally dropped technology products overboard while on a cruise during the past 12 month, to which 11 per cent responded 'yes'.

The most common item lost was the mobile phone (41 per cent) followed by a digital/video camera (38 per cent), MP3 player, Kindle and handheld game console.

Steph Curtin, cruise development manager of bonvoyage.co.uk said: 'This really brings home how much money is lost by simple mistakes when onboard a cruise ship. Leaning over the deck to take a picture of the sunset can seem like a great idea- but it's very easy to accidentally have your camera fall from your hand!'

She added: 'I would strongly recommend that people check whether these sorts of accidents are covered by their holiday insurance provider before they cruise because unfortunately once it's overboard, it's gone.'

'To think that over £16 million is dropped into the ocean every year is an incredible amount- and really does prove that treasure lies at the bottom of the sea!'

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See our selection of this year's best cruises below...

Pick of the best: Cruises 2012

Treat yourself to a Disney Fantasy
 From April 2012, The Disney Fantasy will be sailing at regular intervals from Port Canaveral, Florida on seven-night Caribbean itineraries that alternate eastern (St. Maarten and St. Thomas) and western (Grand Cayman, Costa Maya, Cozumel). All itineraries will include a stop at Disney's private island, Castaway Cay. Visit <a href="http://disneycruise.com" target="_blank">disneycruise.com</a> for details. Rates for a seven-night Caribbean cruise on the Disney Fantasy start at £692 per person for a standard stateroom, based on double occupancy.
Take a yoga cruise on Star Flyer
 Star Clippers is running outdoor yoga cruises with twice-daily sessions on various itineraries including Hamburg to Oslo on Star Flyer, departing May 19, seven nights from £1,490pp. All prices are full board, with yoga and lectures and port charges. Flights extra. Visit <a href="http://www.starclippers.co.uk" target="_blank">starclippers.co.uk</a>.
Go all-inclusive with Crystal Symphony
 That fear of the drinks bill may be a thing of the past now that Crystal Cruises has launched a new all-inclusive package on Crystal Symphony. Complimentary drinks range from fine wines such as Beringer Napa Valley Chardonnay to Grey Goose vodka with pre-paid gratuities. Crystal Serenity follows suit with her 16-night transatlantic sailing on 8 May from New York to Dover - £4,111pp all-inclusive in a deluxe stateroom with picture window including one-way flight to New York and transfers. Visit <a href="http://www.celebritycruises.co.uk" target="_blank">crystalcruises.co.uk</a>
Sail from Barcelona to Copenhagen on the Nautica
 Oceania Cruises has added four new departures this summer with $500 credit per stateroom. The Nautica departs 24th May from Barcelona to Copenhagen, 16 nights from £1349pp (saving £1829 pp). Cruise from Barcelona around the coast of Spain and Portugal, calling into Casablanca, Bruges, Amsterdam and Copenhagen. Prices include all meals, complimentary soft drinks. Excludes flights. Visit <a href="http://www.celebritycruises.co.uk">www.oceaniacruises.com</a>
Go wine tasting on the Celebrity Constellation
 Celebrity Cruises Celebrity Constellation has announced a new 12-night cruise departing Southampton on 7 September. It calls at Paris, Bordeaux, Bilbao, Vigo and Porto before returning to Southampton. From £702 pp with meals and entertainment onboard and all cruise taxes/fees. Departs 7 September 2012. Visit <a href="http://www.celebritycruises.co.uk" target="_blank">celebritycruises.co.uk</a>.
Tour Europe's cities with Royal Caribbean
 Royal Caribbean International’s Adventure of the Seas has a new 14-night Mediterranean Cities cruise departing Southampton on 7 July and calling at Malaga, Cannes, Barcelona, Palma de Mallorca, Valencia, Cartagena and Lisbon before arriving into Vigo. From £1,199pp with meals and entertainment and all relevant cruise taxes/fees. Visit <a href="http://www.celebritycruises.co.uk" target="_blank">royalcaribbean.co.uk</a>.
Get blown away on Carnival Breeze
 The Carnival Breeze launches in June with a seven-night Mediterranean cruise featuring a rum bar, cinema, comedy club, nightclub, 10 restaurants including sushi and a Mongolian BBQ station and kids activities. Leave on 19 September stopping at Monaco, Rome, Sardinia, Dubrovnik and Venice before returning to Barcelona. From £889pp full board including return flights from London to Barcelona with British Airways. Visit <a href="http://www.carnivalcruise.co.uk/cruiseship/carnival-cruise-lines/carnival-breeze?sid=12202" target="_blank">carnivalcruise.co.uk</a>. <div> </div>
Chill out with the family on an Arctic cruise
 In August 2012, Quark Expeditions is running its first Arctic family cruise. The Spitsbergen Polar Bear Safari is an eight-day adventure which takes full advantage of the continuous daylight of the Arctic summer to spot and learn about wildlife including polar bears and walrus. With  photography workshops and extra activities including Arctic kayaking. Sail on the Akademik Sergey Vavilov from £3420 per adult and £2,430 for children up to 17. Visit <a href="http://www.quarkexpeditions.com" target="_blank">quarkexpeditions.com</a>.
Pamper yourself on the Thomson Dream
 2012 sees Thomson Cruises launch its Platinum Cruise range for the discerning cruiser.  Restaurants cabins, bars and spas onboard the Thomson Dream and Thomson Celebration are being completely refurbished. First sailing of the Dream departs on 9 December 2012, departing from Lisbon and sailing to Venezuela, Tobago, Grenada, St Lucia, British Virgin Islands, St Lucia, St Kitts and finishing in Barbados. Prices: 14 nights from £1,599 per person. Visit <a href="http://www.thomson.co.uk/cruise" target="_blank">thomson.co.uk/cruise.</a>
Take to the Baltics on the Adventure of the Seas
 Royal Caribbean International’s Adventure of the Seas has a new 12-night Baltic cruise departing Southampton on 31 May and calling at Oslo, Copenhagen, Tallinn, Helsinki with an overnight stay in historic St. Petersburg. From £999pp with meals and entertainment on board and all relevant cruise taxes/fees. Visit <a href="http://www.royalcaribbean.co.uk" target="_blank">royalcaribbean.co.uk</a>.

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Swimmers disturbed as elephant takes a drink from their pool

August 1, 2012, 9:56 pm

≫ Next: Traditional books replaced by e-readers on holidays

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Filed under: Travel News

Youtube

Swimming in a private pool in the African bush is surely one of life's dream moments - so the last thing you'd want is to be disturbed by an unwelcome visitor. But it looks like these holidaymakers got exactly that when they found themselves sharing their moment - with an adult bull elephant.

The enormous animal, complete with terrifying tusks, decided to stop by for a drink in the pool, apparently completely unaware of the humans swimming in it. They very sensibly stayed still and allowed their uninvited guest to help himself... Terrifying or what?

This video, posted by Kerry Dunne on youtube, captures the scene.

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Traditional books replaced by e-readers on holidays

August 1, 2012, 10:27 pm

≫ Next: No chair hogging! Cruise firm bans passengers from 'saving' sun loungers

≪ Previous: Swimmers disturbed as elephant takes a drink from their pool

Filed under: Travel News

Traditional books replaced by e-readers on holidays, kindle more popular than books for holiday reads, travel books, reading abroad Getty

When it comes to holiday reading British tourists are swapping actual books for e-reader devices, a new survey has found.

A poll by online travel agent sunshine.co.uk revealed that 51 per cent of UK holidaymakers that read on their last holiday abroad claimed they did so with an e-reader device, like the Kindle.

While reading on holiday is still a popular pastime with Brits, it seems people are enjoying novels by the pool or on the beach in a modern form.

When the 1,928 UK adults in the survey were asked if they read some sort of literature or non-fiction book while on their last holiday abroad, 79 per cent said they did and 51 per cent of these used an e-reader.

The biggest e-reader fans were those aged 40 and over, while 18-25 year olds made up 11 per cent of the group.

A third (32 per cent) of those asked said they had borrowed the e-reader and 44 per cent said they preferred the gadget to a normal book because it was easier to hold, while 29 per cent said it was easier to see in the sun.

Of those asked, 24 per cent felt e-readers were too expensive and 46 per cent said they simply preferred books.

Chris Clarkson, co-founder of sunshine.co.uk said: 'Kindles and many other e-readers have been designed with holidaymakers in mind; with displays that can be easily read even in bright sunlight.'

'Many holidaymakers will have experienced reading a book by the pool side and holding it up in the air to shield your face from the sun, only to find the glue binding the pages together begins to melt and the pages fly out everywhere! For that reason, e-readers are brilliant.'

Love technology? Check out these hi-tech hotels...

Hi-tech hotels

Eccleston Square Hotel, London
 This 39-bedroom hotel in Belgravia has pulled out all the stops to deliver the most advanced facilities for its geek chic guests, making it one of London’s most cutting-edge hotels. The rooms come with 46-inch Plasma TVs with 3D, HD Movie and 3D channels, 3D Blu-ray DVD players and super-fast WiFi. Gadget fans will love the finger-tip control pads for the lights, curtains, TV, soundtrack and even electronic wake-up and bedtime settings. Each room also has an iPad2 for you to use for room service and spa bookings. The marble bathrooms have smart-glass walls that turn opaque at the touch of a button and a heated, steam-proof mirror that you can watch TV from! When you finally want a rest from all the in-room activity, the electronically adjustable beds offer relaxation with massage programmes. Visit <a href="http://www.ecclestonsquarehotel.com/" target="_blank">ecclestonsquarehotel.com</a>
The Mira, Hong Kong
 This innovative urban hotel offers groundbreaking room electronics including a Nokia My Mobile system that lets you pick up calls to your room as you roam around Hong Kong, Bose iPod docking stations and 40-inch LCD TVs. With the My Mira concierge service you can get lost outside the hotel as the staff will help you find your way or solve any other problem you throw at them with just the touch of a button. Mood enhancing colour themes in your room, an Arne Jacobsen Egg Chair and tropical rain showers in the bathrooms also give you an A-list experience at the hotel. Visit <a href="http://www.themirahotel.com/en/default.aspx" target="_blank">themirahotel.com</a>
Grace, Mykonos
 The beautiful Grace Mykonos Hotel in Greece is at your service before you’ve even checked in with its Saving Grace packing iPhone app. The app works as a checklist and reminder tool with pre-set lists for different holiday types, so whether you’re going on a cycling holiday or a summer beach break it can build a ‘what to pack’ list for you. You can also personalise the lists by deleting pre-set items and adding your own, and it makes packing easier by showing how many items you’ve already packed and how many you have left. It also features a readymade list of important things to do before you travel, like emptying the fridge, travel insurance and changing money. The hotel's Bespoke by Grace service is also one that technology fans will love as it allows you to add as many cool features to your hotel stay as you wish, so you can opt to have a mobile phone waiting for you with all the numbers of local restaurants and attractions and even select the fragrance of your room! Visit <a href="http://www.mykonosgrace.com/" target="_blank">mykonosgrace.com</a>
The Weinmeister, Berlin
 At The Weinmeister it’s all about luxury and technology with guests having Apple iMacs in their rooms instead of televisions and iPads being available for hire to keep connected with social networking sites, music and games during their stay. A hotel perfect for deign and creative types, you’ll find graffiti art adorning the walls of the lift for a fun, visually entertaining experience, lampshades inspired by airbags in the bedrooms and a rooftop spa where you can enjoy a massage overlooking the city. Visit <a href="http://www.the-weinmeister.com/" target="_blank">the-weinmeister.com</a>
Blow Up Hall 5050, Poland
 The Polish city of Poznan’s electronic art hotel Blow Up Hall 5050 is the epitome of modern luxury and the perfect place for lovers of technology. Its super hi-tech facilities include iPhones that work as a room keys and ways of communicating with the staff, LCD Bang & Olufsen TVs and iPhone docking stations in the rooms. One of its coolest features is that the rooms aren’t numbered so you find your room with the iPhone and small screens in the corridors where a welcome sign appears to show you exactly where your room is! Visit <a href="http://www.blowuphall5050.com/#/home/1106160157/" target="_blank">blowuphall5050.com</a>
Hillside Beach Club, Fethiye
 Got too many books taking up space in your luggage? This holiday village in Turkey has your problem covered as they offer complimentary use of an e-reader so you can leave those bulky books at home. What’s more, it comes pre-loaded with some UK bestsellers so it finds the perfect holiday reads for you! The Reeder has special e-ink screens that won’t strain your eyes and it's easy to read in bright sunshine so you can relax with it on the resort’s adult-only Serenity Beach. Hillside Beach Club is also up on its social networking facilities, allowing guests to make reservations on Facebook! Visit <a href="http://www.hillsidebeachclub.com/main.php?sLang=EN" target="_blank">hillsidebeachclub.com</a>
Mama Shelter, Paris
 Each room is equipped with an iMac, a microwave and free movies on demand at this chic Parisian boutique hotel. The iMac allows you to watch TV, listen to the radio and play CDs and DVDs, as well as surf the internet. Mama Shelter's events room has a pool table, large flat screen TVs and a Bose sound system – perfect for spending a night in at the hotel. When it comes to checking out, you don’t have to wait around as there are automated machines for you to check out quickly. Visit <a href="http://www.mamashelter.com/" target="_blank">mamashelter.com</a>
Ushuaia Ibiza Beach Hotel, Ibiza
 This hotel is as obsessed about Facebook as anyone, being the first ever to launch a sharing initiative of the social media site. Guests are given a slim wristband synchronised to their Facebook profiles to check in, take photos and post a status letting friends know where they're positioned in the hotel simply by swiping the wristband across sensors. Plus, swiping in different locations will post various messages on your Facebook wall, like ‘Hanging out at the Ushuaia Ibiza Beach Hotel...Jealous?’ The hotel's modern rooms offer LED lights to match your mood, 42-inch flat screen TVs, blackout curtains and built-in aromatherapy fragrances. Even one of the swimming pools has the latest technology with LED lights and underwater speakers that play classical music for you to relax. If you fancy yourself as a DJ, check into the sound-proof Pioneer Suite for its Pioneer turntables and mixer, amplifier and eight speakers for you to host your own private party. Visit <a href="http://www.ushuaiabeachhotel.com/" target="_blank">ushuaiabeachhotel.com</a>
Sax, Chicago
 Game fans will love this hotel’s guest-only media lounge, which features RockBand, Guitar Hero and Wii games, as well as music and internet facilities free of charge - so you can leave your console at home. Check in to the Chairman Suite for its computer-controlled lighting, temperature and media features. Microsoft was involved in creating the meeting space at Sax, so expect cutting-edge technology for the communications, lighting and sound facilities. Visit <a href="http://www.thompsonhotels.com/" target="_blank">thompsonhotels.com</a>
Yotel, New York
 Yotel’s first hotel outside airport locations opened this year in New York and introduced the world’s first luggage robot. The Yobot is a fun way of storing left luggage, which goes in the T-Tech by Tumi luggage lounge so your bags can be kept safe before check-in or after check-out for you to make the most of your visit. Checking in at the futuristic hotel is at an airline-style kiosk and the cabins come with motorised moving beds for saving space, a Technowall with TV and music services, as well as a monsoon shower and super strength WiFi. At the Dohyo Restaurant you can dine like the Japanese at tables that lower and rise, and the Club Lounge has separate cabins with flat screen televisions so you can have your own private party. Visit <a href="http://www.yotel.com/" target="_blank">yotel.com</a>

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No chair hogging! Cruise firm bans passengers from 'saving' sun loungers

August 1, 2012, 10:37 pm

≫ Next: Sunbathers in Paris face jail for showing private parts

≪ Previous: Traditional books replaced by e-readers on holidays

Filed under: Cruises

No chair hogging! Cruise firm bans passengers from 'saving' sun loungers Cruise stock image. PA

A cruise company is stopping passengers from hogging sun loungers by banning the practice of laying towels out on the chairs to secure the spots for later.

Cruise giant Carnival Cruise Lines has placed the ban on 'chair hogging' on its Carnival Breeze ship giving passengers who leave their belongings on or around a chair 40 minutes to return to it or someone else will have their spot when they return to it.

Carnival's senior cruise director John Heald posted the new policy on his Facebook page. The use it or lose it rule will be rolled out to other ships if it works.

John Heald said: 'We went with 40 minutes as we felt that this was a fair amount of time if guests get up to eat, drink, pee, swim or slide.

'The big difference here is that we are now staffed and able to police this. Our crew will walk the decks and if they see a chair unused but saved with towels, books, shoes, baby Yaks or underpants they will place a sticker on the chair with the current time.

'Then, they will check 40 minutes later and if the chair is still reserved and unoccupied then they will remove the articles and take them to the towel station by the main pool making sure a note is left for the guests that they have done so.

He added: 'This is step number one in a new drive to make this work and once we finish the test here this cruise and next, we will make adjustments and then add to the rest of the fleet.'

Travel Weekly reported that one of Heald's Facebook friends commented saying: 'This is an awesome thing... nothing more aggravating than to go out to the pool and see a bunch of lounge chairs with towels and no people.'

According to the Daily Mail, an announcement in the ship's theatre and on televisions says: 'In consideration to all guests on board, please do not reserve sun loungers. Towels will be removed after 40 minutes and kept in the Towel Station close to deck 10 main pool. Enjoy your FUN Day at sea.'

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Browse alternative cruise holidays below...

Ten of the best: Alternative cruise holidays

Incredible India
Explore the colour of Eastern India; from Kolkata and the remnants of the British Raj to the Buddhist temples of Sikkim. Catch a spectacular sunrise over Kanchenjunga and relive the Wes Anderson film with a ride on the Darjeeling Toy Tain. From around £3,600 per person with <a href="http://www.abercrombiekent.com/" target="_blank">Abercrombie & Kent</a>
Break up the Baltic
Cruise Soviet style taking in the spectacular sites of the Baltic capitals , including Copenhagen, Tallinn, Stockholm and finishing in the art and cultural capital of the Black Sea, St Petersburg. From around £2,745 per person with <a href="http://www.goldenringcruises.com/" target="_blank">GoldenRing cruises</a>
Cruise the Galapagos
For nature lovers there can be no better pilgrimage than tracing Darwin's steps and taking a five day cruise of the Galapagos Islands. Cruising from the Ecuador capital of Quito the luxury expedition takes in the sea turtles and flamingos of Las Bachas beach , the urchins and octopus of Santiago Island and the penguins at Pinnacle Rock. From around £2,745 per person with <a href="http://www.sanctuaryretreats.com/" target="_blank">Sanctuary Retreats</a>
The Polar Express
Swap the warm beaches of the Med for the stunning white wilderness of Antarctica. The Prince Albert II is built to tackle extreme Polar conditions taking passengers from Argentina, through the Drake Passage and up to the Antarctic Peninsula. Smaller zodiac boats set off daily to take passengers out to more remote areas; including penguin rookeries and huge glacier formations. From around £6,400per person for 14 nights with <a href="http://www.silversea.com/" target="_blank">Silversea Cruises</a>
Fjords of Norway
If you decide on this cruise which starts in Liverpool traversing the Shetland Islands and then over to the Norwegian fjords and around the spectacular Mount Aksla, you want to be more into rugged coastlines and mountain lakes than sandy beaches and warm waters. This route will take you through the Queen of the Fjords - Hardangerfjord - and gives you the chance to walk behind Steinsdal Waterfall amongst some truly unspoilt countryside. From around £1,134 per person with <a href="http://www.fredolsencruises.com/" target="_blank">Fred.Olsen Cruise Lines</a>
The Amazon adventure
Sail the 7ft wide Amazonian river, delving deep into the jungle at at the Pacaya Samira reserve on a week long adventure and exploration. Go looking for monkeys and dolphins, fish for your supper, and delve into the Amazon's hidden black water lakes. From around £3,490 per person with <a href="http://www.aquaexpeditions.com/" target="_blank">Aqua Expeditions</a>
Upstream without a paddle
As China opens up to the world, take an alternative view of the country by cruising upstream through the Yangzi River. A four day cruise will begin at the Three Gorges, taking you under the ancient Huangling Temple, paddling through the Shennong region on a local longboat and through the cliffs of the Qutang Gorge. From around £760 per person with <a href="http://www.sanctuaryretreats.com/" target="_blank">Sanctuary Retreats</a>
Eastern promise
Juxtaposing the metropolises of Singapore and Kuala Lumpar with the idyllic scenery of Phuket, this is a cruise for people who enjoy contradictions; a little bit city and a little bit beach. From around £1,300 per person with <a href="http://www.royalcaribbean.com/home.do;jsessionid=0000LLhOYm4dfKdhq4CSas-oaNC:13hldcctq" target="_blank">Royal Caribbean International</a>
Out of Africa
Watch the sunrise over the sand dunes and dine in the desert with a cruise around Richards Bay and Zululand. The tour will take you from private game reserves to the Umfolozi Swamp Forest and diving off Sudwana Bay. From around £2,800 per person with <a href="http://www.silversea.com/" target="_blank">Silversea Cruises</a>
Best of British
vDo your bit for the environment (as well as your bank balance) by exploring what's right under your nose with a cruise (of sorts) in the British Isles. Hire a luxury canal boat and do it yourself around the Brecon Beacons, taking in the Monmouthshire countryside, village pubs and 22 miles of meandering waterways. From around Â£800 for a four berth boat with <a href="http://www.beaconparkboats.com/" target="_blank">Beacon Park Boats</a>

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Sunbathers in Paris face jail for showing private parts

August 2, 2012, 12:03 am

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Sunbathers in Paris face jail for showing private parts Paris Plage, River Seine. PA

Sunbathers in Paris could face a 38-euro fine or jail for stripping off and revealing too much in the city.

According to the Daily Mail, the French capital's police website states there must be 'no breasts or private parts' on show while sunbathing.

During the summer months thousands flock to the River Seine where the Paris Plage sandy beach is set up.

Parisians have been told by the Police: 'When the thermometer rises a few degrees, you may put on your best bathing suit and find a little corner of grass or the welcoming banks of the Seine to put down your towel.

'But please note that bathing suits should not be worn in official city parks and that dress should be decent and in accordance with good morals and public order.

The website adds: 'Those wearing inappropriate dress can be fined at least 38 euros (£33) and fined up to 3,750 euros (£3,000) and two years in jail if suspected of soliciting sex.'

'Any outfit that allows for the genital area or breasts to be seen constitutes sexual exhibition and is punishable by a year in prison.'

What do you think of the law? Too harsh or a good way of stopping people revealing too much? Leave a comment below and let us know.

Check out our alternative guide to Paris below...

Alternative Paris

Buy a book or three
 This world-famous bookshop,<a href="http://www.shakespeareandcompany.com/" target="_blank"> Shakespeare and Company </a>(Rue de la Bûcherie, Metro: Saint-Michel-Notre-Dame) has provided a bed to some 50,000 penniless authors since it opened in 1951 – the idea being that writers who worked in the shop got to live there, too. The store, which predominantly sells books in English, has become something of an institution, with regular literary events and a constant stream of visitors keen to pick up a new read in order to come away with a bag bearing the shop's name.
Tickle your tastebuds at Berthillon
 If you enjoy an ice cream in Paris, you can guarantee it'll be a Berthillon – a Parisian ice cream manufacturer that started up in 1954. Check out the main store on Rue Saint Louis en l'ile (Metro: Ponte Marie) for a bevy of unusual flavours, including granny apple, prune and rhubarb. Prepare to queue down the road for your cone but, rest assured, it'll be worth it.
Have lunch in a Parisian mansion
 You don't get a much more lavish setting for lunch than a 19th-century Parisian mansion. The café at the <a href="http://www.musee-jacquemart-andre.com/en/jacquemart/496-the_jacquemart_andre_cafe_/www.musee-jacquemart-andre.com/en/jacquemart/496-the_jacquemart_andre_cafe_/" target="_blank">Jacquemart-André</a> museum  (Boulevard Haussman, Metro: Miromesnil) – which is well worth a visit in itself for its impressive art collection – is adorned with antique paintings and tapestries. A fascinating collection of figures looks down at you from the ceiling painted by 18th-century Italian artist, Tiepolo. The set lunch menu comes in at a reasonable €16.50.
Scare yourself silly at the Catacombs
 Done the streets of Paris? Then why not have a look what's under them? The <a href="http://www.catacombes-de-paris.fr/english.htm" target="_blank">Paris Catacombs </a>(Avenue du Colonel Henri Rol-Tanguy, Metro: Denfert-Rochereau) are lined with bones and skulls from The Cemetery of Innocent, which had to be closed because it was causing disease in the city at the end of the 18th century. Housing the remains of close to six million Parisians, it's an eerie but ultimately fascinating sight.
Indulge yourself with Chanel
 Fashion-lovers, history-buffs and shopping queens should all go on pilgrimage to the Chanel Store on Rue Cambon (Metro: Madeleine) where the iconic brand began. In 1910 Coco Chanel opened her first shop – a hat store – here, and had her private apartment on the second floor. Fancy buying something but can't afford to spend thousands? Then come away with a bottle of exclusive 31 Rue Cambon perfume to remember your visit.
Hunt for a bargain in Les Puces de Paris
 Forget the Avenue des Champs-Élysées. Dedicated shoppers should head to the sprawling <a href="http://www.parispuces.com/en/Default.asp]" target="_blank">Les Puces</a> flea market on the edge of Paris (Saint Ouen, Metro: Porte de Clignancourt). The market has built up since the 19th century and today, in the maze of tiny, intertwining streets, you'll find over 2,000 stalls creaking with vintage fashion, furniture, crockery, books, and just about everything in between. Be sure to practice your haggling en Français before you go!
See the Statue of Liberty
 Did you know that New York's Statue of Liberty was actually designed by a Parisian, Frédéric Bartholdi, and was given as a gift to America by the French? So it's perhaps no surprise that Paris has it's own lesser-known version (Île aux Cygnes, Metro: Bir-Hakeim). It's just 37 feet, nine inches, to the New York version's 305 feet. But it makes for a wonderfully quirky and incongruent site, with the Eiffel Tower set behind it.
Fall in love with le mur des je t'aime
 Escape the obvious romantic hotspots in the City of Love and visit <a href="http://www.lesjetaime.com/english/index.html" target="_blank">le mur des je t'aime </a>– the I love you wall (Place des Abbesses, Metro: Abbesses). Across 612 enamelled tiles you'll find 'I love you' written in hundreds of different languages. Search for those you can understand or just marvel at this piece of large-scale modern art.
Be inpired by Sainte-Chapelle
 You're spoilt for choice when it comes to churches in Paris, with the likes of Notre Dame and Sacré-C&oelig;ur. But <a href="http://sainte-chapelle.monuments-nationaux.fr/en/" target="_blank">Sainte-Chapelle</a> (Boulevard du Palais, Metro – Cité) easily rivals them in the beauty stakes, with three walls of near floor-to-ceiling stained glass. Inside the gothic masterpiece, the air dances with colours as the light catches the multicoloured glass – guaranteed to have you captivated.
Make for the Musee Rodin
 If you've ticked off the Centre Pomidou and the Louvre but want an art fix, head to the <a href="http://www.musee-rodin.fr/welcome.htm" onclick="window.open(this.href, '', 'resizable=no,status=no,location=no,toolbar=no,menubar=no,fullscreen=no,scrollbars=no,dependent=no'); return false;">Rodin Museum</a> (Rue de Varenne, Metro: Varenne). It displays the work of French artist Auguste Rodin, made famous by his sculptures The Thinker and The Kiss. Set in a picture-perfect mansion and with vast gardens, it's a lovely place to amble away an afternoon. And it's a welcome escape from the madding crowds at the more famous Parisian art destinations.

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Ryanair's O'Leary gets biggest bonus ever after profits soar

August 2, 2012, 12:15 am

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Ryanair Michael O'Leary gets biggest bonus ever after profits soar, increased ryanair profits PA

Ryanair boss Michael O'Leary is taking home a big pay package after his budget airline made record profits last year.

According to the Scotsman, the outspoken chief executive pocketed an extra 18 per cent in his take home pay giving him a total of £1 million in the last financial year.

His basic salary of 595,000 euros rose to 768,000 euros and his bonus jumped from 440,000 euros to 504,000. He also holds around 51 million shares in the company, which are worth an estimated 203 million euros.

With rising fuel prices, Ryanair expects profits to be lower this year but posted a record profit of 503 million euros (up 25 per cent) last year.

Figures showed first-quarter profits were 29 per cent lower at 99 million euros and the company expects the yearly profits to be between 400 and 440 million euros this year.

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Love to hate low-cost flying? So do we! Find out why below...

Ten things we love to hate about low-cost flying

Paying for paying
Is it just us, or is there something seriously nut so about the concept of paying for the privilege of paying? It's a crazy, mixed-up world when you have to pay £10 to use a debit card which costs the airline around 20p to process. Of course, you could apply for one of the cards which are 'free' to use, but they change all the time and take hours to apply for. If we thought about it too hard we'd only ever sit at home and cry.
Clashing colours
My dear, the garishness! Bright orange, purple, lurid yellow... it's enough to make anyone long for the days of a discreet livery of navy, red and perhaps a touch of silver. If you weren't feeling queasy before you got onboard, the combination of lime green uniforms and a £10 gin and tonic should do the job. Pass the sick bag – oh no, that's right, there aren't any.
Arriving at random airports
It's all very well paying £3.99 for your flight to Stockholm, but you won't be feeling so clever when you land in a field in the middle of nowhere, surrounded by lakes and forests, with no capital city in sight. Add on the taxes, extra charges and an hour and a half taxi ride into town and suddenly the national carrier flying to the main airport is looking like a pretty good deal. Especially when you factor in the professional service and free prawn sandwich you would have got...
Bonkers booking
Ah, the joys of the online no-frills airline booking procedure... First off, let's assume you've got access to the internet (if you don't, you're pretty much stuffed, because the chances of finding a real live human to book with are about as high you being able to travel on one of the special offer days). You've then got to navigate the site without accidentally hiring a car, paying for golf clubs or adopting a small child. By the time you remember to print out your boarding pass within the correct time period, you're in serious need of a holiday...
Full-fare food and drink
The recent story about a certain airline which gave a man a sandwich and a drink after he suffered a cardiac arrest – and then charged him for it – just about sums up the no-frills airline attitude to catering. It's all about the money, money, money. So, three letters for you: B.Y.O.
Speedy boarding
Seriously, what is up with people who pay for speedy boarding? You haven't spent enough on extra taxes, credit card charges, baggage fees? Sure, whack on another hefty charge while you're at it, just so you can stand in the front of the queue and feel superior. The plane's not going anywhere until the povs at the back of the queue are on too, so save the twenty quid – you'll need it to pay for your cheese sandwich on board.</div>
Baggage restrictions
No, no, we don't really need to take anything with us on our holiday, honestly. We may be going to Norway for two weeks in January, but a toothbrush, t-shirt and a pair of flip-flops will do us just fine. The book, nappies, wet wipes and baby food ? No problem, they'll slip right into the one bag too, that's fine, don't need them at all, yes stick them in the overhead locker miles away from my seat, too. Marvellous.
No seat pocket
Remember in the old days when the seat in front of you had a pocket you could stow your bits and pieces, magazines, bottle of water etc, instead of having to strew them all over the floor? They might be saving space and weight, but when your three-year-old starts projectile vomiting and the seat belt sign's on, suddenly a seat pocket full of sick bags makes a lot of sense. Ah, sweet revenge...
Lousy legroom
Jeez, there's nothing like 29" legroom pitch and a non-reclining seat back to force you to practice your yoga moves. Like human origami, we fold our limbs into unnatural shapes and wonder why we can't feel our feet by the end of the flight. And we're relatively normal! What it's like for a 6ft 7" man, or a 7 month pregnant woman with a 20 month old on her 'lap' doesn't bear thinking about...
Surly service
OK, when you're paying more for your beer than your air fare, you can't expect silver service, but would a smile hurt? We feel for the cabin crew dealing with leery stag weekenders and bitter businessmen whose companies won't cough up for a proper airline, but it would be nice to be treated slightly more like a human being, less like a walking wallet from whom to extract as much cash as possible in a two hour period. Scratch card, perfume, magazine, £2.50 bottle of water, anyone?

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Why you must get a good night's sleep after getting holiday jabs

August 2, 2012, 12:36 am

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Filed under: Travel News

Why you must get a good night's sleep after getting holiday jabs, travel health, immune system PA

Getting a decent night's sleep after your holiday vaccinations could affect whether they work or not, according to a report in the Daily Mail.

While researching how our immune system reacts to vaccines in real-life conditions, experts found that poor sleep could reduce the effectiveness of jabs.

A study showed that adults who got less than six hours of sleep after being given the hepatitis B vaccine developed less antibodies that those who slept for more than seven hours.

Researchers say the findings could lead to doctors warning patients about to be immunised of their sleep patterns affecting their health.

Lead author of the study, Dr Aric Prather, from the University of California, San Francisco, said: 'With the emergence of our 24-hour lifestyle, longer working hours, and the rise in the use of technology, chronic sleep deprivation has become a way of life for many.

'These findings should help raise awareness in the public health community about the clear connection between sleep and health.'

The study looked at adults in good health and how the antibodies reacted to the hepatitis B vaccination.

Antibodies are formed by the immune system to identify and neutralise foreign objects, like viruses.

The 125 people involved in the study were between the ages of 40 and 60, non-smokers and living in Pennsylvania.

The participants were given a first and second dose of the vaccine a month apart, followed by a booster dose six months later and kept sleep diaries.

People who slept less than six hours per night were far less likely to mount antibody responses to the vaccine and were 11.5 times more likely to be unprotected by the vaccine than those who slept for more than seven hours.

'Sleeping fewer than six hours conferred a significant risk of being unprotected as compared with sleeping more than seven hours per night,' said Dr Prather.

'Based on our findings and existing laboratory evidence, sleep may belong on the list of behavioural risk factors that influence vaccination efficacy.'

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Travellers warned of websites selling fake airline tickets

August 2, 2012, 5:08 am

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Filed under: Travel News

Travellers warned of website selling fake airline tickets Rex

Travellers are being warned about websites selling fake airline tickets after more than 150 incidents were reported since January.

According to Action Fraud, the reporting centre of the National Fraud Authority, more than 100 of these occurred from April.

The scams see fraudulent websites claiming to be authorised travel agents and offering cheap flights. Package holidays, hotel stays and apartment rentals are also being sold by the fake companies, reports the Daiy Telegraph.

This comes after a survey by government advice service Get Safe Online revealed that one in three Britons do not confirm the authenticity of a travel provider before giving their payment details.

Action Fraud has advised holidaymakers to beware of overly cheap prices, research any unfamiliar holiday retailers and to book through reputable travel firms.

It says that if an agents claims to be a member of a trade body, like ABTA, it should be confirmed through the association's website.

Something else to look out for when booking your holiday online is the padlock symbol on your browser, which tells you that you're making a secure payment.

Action Fraud also warns shoppers to beware of traders who refuse to accept debit and credit card payments. In most cases, using a credit card will give you payment protection.

Background checking website 192.com advises consumers to check a company's name and address before booking. Speaking in the Telegraph, a spokesman said: 'Don't assume an advert is genuine just because the website is.'

'Research the property or hotel you're booking and verify that the address exists through web searches and online maps.'

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Travel website exposes reality of Photoshopped pictures
The great hotel rip-off: how much are you being overcharged?

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Leave the kids at home! Top hotels for grown-ups

August 2, 2012, 5:53 am

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Filed under: World travel

Not all hotels are perfect for families - and jolly good job too. Serious relaxation, beautiful views and gourmet food are just about the last thing kids want on holiday - so these hotels, chosen for us by Tripadvisor, are perfect for anyone who wants to play at being a proper grown-up.

Whether you're a parent desperate to escape from your own kids, or just in need of a holiday that isn't ruined by other people's offspring, these hotels come out tops from the reviewers...

Tripadvisor's top ten hotels for grown-ups

Apsenti Couples Only, Mykonos, Greece
 An intimate boutique hotel located on the west side of the island, <a href="http://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Hotel_Review-g805488-d609327-Reviews-Apsenti_Couples_Only_Mykonos-Agios_Ioannis_Mykonos_Cyclades.html" target="_blank">Apsenti </a>is a serene getaway featuring an outdoor plunge pool and Jacuzzi rooms – ideal for guests to relax and watch the world go by. One Tripadvisor reviewer says: “It was fantastic - very romantic, relaxing and chilled out.”
Dreams Luxury Suites, Imerovigli, Greece
 This <a href="http://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Hotel_Review-g635864-d667356-Reviews-Dreams_Luxury_Suites-Imerovigli_Santorini_Cyclades.html" target="_blank">tranquil property</a> is known for its beauty and unique personality. Featuring four luxury suites, each distinctively designed; guests can relax on the terraces while being mesmerised by the sights of the Caldera. As one Tripadvisor traveller says: “I stayed here with my girlfriend and it is quite simply the best luxury hotel I've ever stayed at. The views from this hotel are truly stunning with direct views of the volcano and surrounding sea, as well as the towns in Santorini.”
Hotel Miramar, Opatija, Croatia
 Built in 1876 and renovated in the style of Belle Époque (the beautiful era), the décor featured in <a href="http://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Hotel_Review-g297515-d586520-Reviews-Hotel_Miramar-Opatija_Primorje_Gorski_Kotar_County.html" target="_blank">Hotel Miramar</a> evokes opulence and elegance throughout. “We spent our honeymoon at Hotel Miramar and we absolutely loved every second of our stay. The food was fantastic and the setting on the terrace is breath-taking and very romantic,” says one Tripadvisor reviewer.
Hotel Vila Grale Praia, Albufeira, Portugal
 Algarve coast, <a href="http://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Hotel_Review-g189112-d265863-Reviews-Hotel_Vila_Gale_Praia-Albufeira_Algarve.html" target="_blank">Hotel Vila Gale Praia </a>offers picturesque views of a palm tree garden and is a short distance from restaurants, shops and four other beaches. One Tripadvisor reviewr says: “We stayed here during our honeymoon and I wish we had stayed longer. It is a great, relaxing and romantic place to stay.”
Grace Santorini Hotel, Imerovigli, Greece
 Located high above the Caldera, <a href="http://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Hotel_Review-g635864-d1088707-Reviews-Grace_Santorini_Hotel-Imerovigli_Santorini_Cyclades.html" target="_blank">Grace Santorini Hotel </a>boasts enviable views of the famed Santorini sunset over the Aegean Sea from its luxury suites and balconies. One Tripadvisor reviewer says: “You will not find a more perfect hotel anywhere! Fantastic location, amazing staff, superb rooms, stunning views and wonderful food."
East Hotel, Hamburg, Germany
 A bespoke designer hotel adorned with handmade furnishings, natural fabrics and textures, <a href="http://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Hotel_Review-g187331-d446868-Reviews-East_Hotel-Hamburg.html" target="_blank">East Hotel </a>prides itself on its unique visual design and individual scents in each area. As one Tripadvisor traveller says: “This is a superb hotel featuring modern and quirky styling, and the food in the restaurant was fantastic.”
Carmen de la Alcubilla del Caracol, Granada, Spain
 Located on the slopes of the Alhambra, <a href="http://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Hotel_Review-g187441-d596612-Reviews-Carmen_de_la_Alcubilla_del_Caracol-Granada_Province_of_Granada_Andalucia.html" target="_blank">Carmen de la Alcubilla del Caracol</a> offers outstanding panoramic views of Sierra Nevada and Granada. Each room has been designed to maintain the character and style of a traditional Granada house, featuring antique furniture and art. One Tripadvisor traveller says: “This is a remarkable hotel with stunning views. The rooms are comfortable and the terrace is delightful.”
Villa St Maxime, St-Paul-de-Vence, France
 This luxury hotel surrounded by elegant gardens offers breath-taking views of the Riviera. Beautifully decorated with marble and sleek art, this charming property is a wonderful base to unwind. As one Tripadvisor reviewer says: “My husband and I just spent two nights at <a href="http://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Hotel_Review-g187240-d310640-Reviews-Villa_St_Maxime-St_Paul_de_Vence_French_Riviera_Cote_d_Azur_Provence.html" target="_blank">Villa St. Maxime</a> and it was perfect.”
Palazzo Talamo, Positano, Italy
 With terraces offering idyllic sea views from each room, guests can admire the striking sights of the Amalfi Coast. Located close to the historic centre of Amalfi, restaurants, bars, shops and beaches are within walking distance for all to explore. One Tripadvisor reviewer says: “This is an amazingly beautiful place to stay and the ocean view right from our room is breath-taking.” Visit <a href="http://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Hotel_Review-g194863-d616570-Reviews-Palazzo_Talamo-Positano_Amalfi_Coast_Campania.html">Palazzo Talamo.</a>
Hotel Resort and Spa Miramonti, Rota d'Imagna, Italy
 Nestled in the heart of Imagna Valley, the spectacular scenery of the Valley and mountains make <a href="http://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Hotel_Review-g968270-d288665-Reviews-Hotel_Resort_Spa_Miramonti-Rota_d_Imagna_Bergamo_Province_Lombardy.html" target="_blank">Hotel Resort & Spa Miramonti</a> a splendid location to disconnect and marvel at nature. As one Tripadvisor traveller says: “A stunning location. You cannot fail to be impressed by both the quality of accommodation, friendly service and views you will remember for a long time to come.”

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Is India's ban on tiger tourism a good thing?

August 2, 2012, 10:49 pm

≫ Next: Qantas customer is put on hold for 15 HOURS

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Filed under: Travel News

Is India's ban on tiger tourism a good thing? Alamy

The Supreme Court of India has placed a ban on tiger tourism, closing the country's tiger parks indefinitely as they investigate a claim that ecotourism is having a negative impact on the habitat of this endangered species.

This means that reserves such as Dhikala in Corbett will soon be out of bounds for tourists, who will only be able to enter "buffer zones" surrounding the preservation areas.

The court ruling came after a conservationist filed a case complaining that authorities in several states had allowed rampant construction of hotels and resorts within core areas of the reserves. He claimed that tourism was exerting too much pressure on the tigers.

But the news has triggered a heated debate between conservationists and tour operators about whether the ban will help or hinder the dwindling tiger population.

Speaking to the International Business Traveller, Julian Matthews, chairman of Travel Operators For Tigers, said he believed the decision was a retrograde step as it would allow poachers to roam free, unseen and unreported by sharp-eyed tourists.

And Shashanka Nanda of New Delhi, a wildlife enthusiast and photographer, believes that, while the court's heart is in the right place, its not going about the situation the right way.

Speaking to CNN news, he said: "Responsible and regulated tourism forges a human connection to wildlife. Just seeing tigers in textbooks won't affect people to change," he said. "If you stop tourists and enthusiasts, you're losing half the battle of wildlife conservation."

But Toby Sinclair, vice president for the Ecotourism Society of India, told the news channel that he believed the government was allowing too many visitors into the parks.

"The 'eco' in ecotourism has changed to economy," he said.

The World Wildlife Fund says the main threats to the species are habitat loss from illegal logging and commercial plantations, and poaching and retributive killing, including the illegal trade if tiger parts (see the video below).

What do you think? Will banning tiger tourism help preserve them? Tell us your thoughts below.

In pictures: the world's endangered predators

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Qantas customer is put on hold for 15 HOURS

August 2, 2012, 11:12 pm

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Filed under: Travel News

Qantas customer is put on hold for 15 HOURS, passenger, airline, travel nightmare PA

What's the longest you've been put on hold? We bet it's not 15 hours like one customer who called airline Qantas to confirm the travel details of his trip.

Australian business traveller Andrew Kahn used his mobile phone to call Qantas about his trip to New York from Adelaide and waited on hold for precisely 15 hours, 40 minutes and one second before finally hanging up, the Sydney Morning Herald reported.

Mr Kahn phoned the airline at 7.22pm on Wednesday about his flight on Sunday but after being on hold for a whole night, he eventually gave up at 11.01am yesterday.

He listened to the constant message telling him somebody would speak to him 'as soon as possible' and after hanging up Mr Kahn called again managing to speak to someone in customer service who said he was not even on the flight because of a code error in the ticket booking.

Speaking to the Sydney Morning Herald, Mr Kahn said: 'I wanted to find out what exactly they meant would be as soon as possible. I never got an answer. This is outrageous.'

The Qantas staff member told Mr Kahn: 'I've never seen this before in my life. For some stupid reason, this had led to this loop of you being on hold. What a saga.'

Another employee offered to reimburse his call costs if he emailed a copy of his call list.

The new product developer said: 'I hung up in the end simply because I had had enough.'

'I wanted to find out what exactly they meant when they said they would be with me as soon as possible.

'Outside of my determination to find out what exactly 'soon' meant, after already waiting for an hour or so, I did not want to lose my place in the queue.

He added: 'It is just about the worst customer service any customer could ever receive.'

The 15 hours wasn't a complete waste of time for Mr Kahn though as he said he managed to surf the net, work and read advanced masters level book Bazerman and Moore's 7th edition of Judgment in Managerial Decision Making.

Qantas says it had no record of any caller waiting 15 hours to get through to its contact centres and a spokesman said: 'In fact, our average contact centre wait time during that period was under a minute and the longest wait time was 17 minutes.'

'The passenger's booking had been cancelled due to a system error, but has now been reinstated.

'We are looking into how this could have occurred and apologise for any inconvenience caused.'

Has an airline ever put you on hold for hours? Leave a comment and let us know below.

Think this is bad? Check out the world's worst airlines in our picture gallery...

Revealed! The worst airlines in the world

No 9 Egyptair
 These less-than-glowing reviews on <a href="http://www.airlinequality.com/Forum/iberia.htm" target="_blank">AirlineQuality.com</a> say it all: ‘…nothing could be as bad as EgyptAir. Dirty aircraft with disinterested crew. The toilets were filthy, food looked like leftovers from other airlines. The seating is exceptionally cramped and uncomfortable’ and ‘I find the staff on EgyptAir lazy and unprofessional.’ And apparently the seats aren’t cheap either!
No 8 Air China
 Old planes and unexplained flight delays were among the common complaints about this Chinese airline. Customers alternately complained that flight attendants don’t speak English (although some praising the communication skills). Other comments included criticism of the poor quality of the food and service.
No 7 China Eastern Airlines
 Oh dear, customers are not happy with their experience of this airline or its website. Shabby planes, flights being delayed, rescheduled or rerouted without notice or explanation. And the airline got the lowest score for its food. Altogether a big thumbs down from reviewers.
No 6 China Southern Airlines
 Chinese air travel isn’t coming off well according to Zagat findings. Customer comments on <a href="http://www.airlinequality.com/Forum/c_sthrn.htm" target="_blank">AirQuality.com</a> on this airline’s service included: ‘…poor food, warm drinks, inadequate English language skills of crew (including nonsensical inflight announcements), non-reclining seats… All in all, quite an unpleasant series of flights’ and ‘Be careful to check and re-check your booking, as flight times can (and did) change without notice. You can miss your flight very easily.’
No 5 US Airways
 Described by one reviewer as ‘the airline from hell’, you’d be forgiven for giving it a wide berth unless it ups its game considerably! <a href="http://www.airlinequality.com/Forum/c_sthrn.htm" target="_blank">Reviews </a>included: ‘First, the airline could not fine my reservation… then they determined that "someone" had canceled it in spite of my confirming it on their website’; ‘The worst thing was the attitude of US airways staff and the lies they told us. I wouldn't touch them again with a barge pole’ and ‘Most of the staff are rude and unfriendly… All in all a terrible experience. Never again.’
No 4 Aeroflot
 It was the terminal at the airport that came in for most criticism here. Customers commented on the poor bus transfer to the gate and unfriendly staff. Another criticism was that the elderly and passengers with children weren’t properly catered for. And one <a href="http://www.airlinequality.com/Forum/aeroflot-2.htm" target="_blank">reviewer</a> said the pilot announced: 'Sorry, we do not fly today. The plane is broken'.
No 3 easyJet
 The general stampede for unallocated seats was a common criticism for easyJet. One customer complained: ‘It would cost the easyJet computer nothing to allocate seats and alleviate the impression one is fighting for a place on a bus that may be overfull’; another said: ‘My biggest concern was the feeling of chaos inboard. The safety demo audio was played at a very low volume, and people were speaking on their mobile phones during the safety demonstration, cabin crew seemingly not giving a damn.’ Other complaints include overbooked flights and disorganised service...
No 2 Spirit
 Lack of food on international flights, a poorly kept plane and bad service generally were all at the heart of the complaints by travellers. TOne passenger pulled no punches with the comment: ‘My trip from Lima, Peru to Boston was the biggest nightmare of my life next to getting all four of my wisdom teeth pulled while conscious’; another, commenting on the policy of charging for hand luggage, said: ‘Robbing people as they board your airplane should really help your already abysmal tardy departure record…’ and a third summed up with: ‘They charge for everything, their agents are rude, and the flights are overbooked, late, not that clean, and just an awful experience.’  Biggest gripe of all was the charges the airline makes for hand luggage.
And the winner is.... No 1 Ryanair
 It was not hard to find reviewers with a poor opinion of the budget airline. An overriding impression was one of being ripped off.  As one customer commented: ‘I've concluded that Ryanair is nothing but a great big social experiment to see how arrogant an airline can get and how low customer service can be pushed before the said airline starts to lose money….We keep coming back to this horrid airline with its miserable service in hope that we'll save a Euro or two. Reality is that we probably end up spending more money than we would have if we opted for a better airline’, while delivered a damning verdict: ‘They have to be the most customer unfriendly company I have come across. Dirty plane when we eventually got on, tired looking and dishevelled cabin crew. What more can I say - a shocking experience that I never wish to repeat.’
No 10 Iberia
 Reviews on <a href="http://www.airlinequality.com/Forum/iberia.htm" target="_blank">AirlineQuality.com</a> included this scathing comment: ‘Incredibly uncomfortable seats, poor food, rude staff who just wanted to get the meal service out of the way so they could stand at the rear of the plane and chat amongst themselves.’ Hopefully, the merger with British Airways will mean there's a hope for a rise in standards.

And see the things that can turn your dream holiday into a nightmare...

Ten things to avoid on your next holiday

The stag do
 The stag do You're in such a fantastic holiday mood, even the party of beery, leery lads on a stag do singing football songs and heckling the air hostesses for the entire three hour flight isn't going to ruin your vibe. They're just young lads letting off a bit of steam, no harm done, eh? That is until the plane lands, one of them pulls his bag down from the overhead locker and you catch sight of the label on it, addressed with the name of a resort which looks worryingly similar to yours...
The bag mix-up
 Just off the plane and eager to get on and explore the wonders of the exciting European city you've landed in, you grab your smart new case off the carousel and run to catch a taxi. A quick freshen up and change of clothes at the hotel and you'll be good to go. Until you open your luggage and discover that while the case is identical to yours, the contents certainly aren't, and you'll be wearing the wardrobe of an 11 yr old girl with a penchant for pink until the mix-up's sorted out.
The 'wonderful' view
 Feeling pretty pleased with yourself for bagging such an amazing last minute deal, you settle back and enjoy the transfer to the hotel. The sun's shining, the sea's shimmering through the window; so far, so good. Until you reach the resort to find it slap bang in the middle of a building site, cranes and scaffolding looming above it and a drilling volume to rival an AC/DC concert. Whoever took the photo for the brochure should get an award for his contortionist skills and for taking artistic license to a whole new level. Note to self: learn to read between the lines.
The hidden extras in the room
 Experiencing the local flora and fauna is a wonderful part of visiting a foreign country – tropical birds in rainbow colours, cute, furry creatures up trees and exotic insects in their natural habitats = all good. Cockroaches, bed bugs and rodents in your room = bad. If you'd wanted to share your bed with an unhygienic, hairy creature, you'd have taken the barman up on his generous offer.
The all-inclusive buffet
 There are some holidaymakers who can resist the lure of the all-you-can eat buffet, choosing a sensible, well balanced selection of dishes, and then there are those of us who regard it as a personal challenge to load as many items as possible onto one plate. Either way, the combo of prawn curry, chicken piri piri and bbq ribs in your stomach is never advisable, particularly when you notice a guy in a tall white hat emerging from the loos with suspiciously dry looking hands..
The activity holiday
 White water rafting/paragliding/bungee jumping sounded like such fun at the time... until you found yourself landed with an eye watering medical bill and a neckbrace/plaster cast. Enough said.
The ominous sound of rumbling...
 Ah, the wonders of Asia! Temples, beaches, tropical heat, friendly people, exotic food. As all true travellers know, the best way to get an authentic taste of the local cuisine is from the street food vendors – cheap as chips and hot off the grill. Though now you come to think of it, you didn't exactly see your delicious spicy snack being cooked right in front of you, and what's that ominous rumbling noise and gripey feeling in your stomach? Suddenly a two week bus tour isn't looking like such a great idea...
The wrong companion
 There's nothing like a mates' holiday in the sun, just two single friends, footloose and fancy free,  only sun bathing, the odd cocktail and harmless holiday flirtation on the agenda. So when your best pal turns up at the airport gabbling breathlessly about the 'amazing' new guy she met the night before - and then announces that he's 'coming with', you know you're in for a long fortnight...
The tin of sardines
 You were promised deserted beaches and off the beaten track bliss. As you fight your way through the crowds for a spot on the sand, you start to think that rush hour on the Tube on a Monday morning is quite fun in comparison, actually.