Michael Hehn asked:


Vilamoura is the name given to an area rather than to any actual town.

It is outstanding in that it is one of the largest single tourist complexes in Europe and covers some 2.000 hectares of land. The land is variable in its vegetation, some parts covered in pine forests whilst others open recovered marshland.

The company that owns this complex is extremely environmentally conscious and has made every effort is being made to protect nature within its continued planned development.

Due to the size of the resort area it offers the visitor nearly every form of sport and entertainment. On the southern border is a long sandy beach swept by the Atlantic Ocean.

Amongst the many attractions and facilities there are six different Golf Courses, a large Marina, a Lawn Bowling Club with two grass Rinks, a Tennis Centre, a Sports Club, a Shooting Club, 5 Star and 4 Star Hotels, Tourist Apartments, self-catering Villas, Night Clubs, an International Casino with glamorous shows, a Cinema, and an excellent Riding School.

Within the centre of Vilamoura there is a preserved Roman Site and Museum of Cerro da Vila providing an interesting glimpse into the past of the area. In Roman times this location was important in producing a fish paste known as Garum. The ruins also include the baths in which the mariners used to bathe.

As a location specifically designed for tourism it has proved to be a very successful holiday destination for all ages due to the variety of facilities that it provides holidaymakers.

Facilities include:

Restaurants

Cafes / Pubs

Post office

Banks

Petrol station

Supermarkets (with international products)

Railway station

Beautiful Marina

A large variety of Golf Courses

Vale do Lobo

In 1962, was born the famous Vale do Lobo, the first tourist enterprise of Algarve, in south of Portugal. The project became real after the partnership of two multinationals: Trusthouse Fort plc and Costain plc.

When it was built, the area of Algarve was devoted fundamentally to the fishing and to the agriculture. With the arrival of the Vale do Lobo, the area met its first five stars hotel “Le Meridien D. Filipa” and its first golf course.

During the seventies, Sander van Gelder, the Dutch entrepreneur linked to the industry of the jewellery store and diamonds with some stories in Holland, discovered the Vale do Lobo. The enormous tourist potential of the resort attracted the entrepreneur, who acquired the company in 1977, moving with his family to Portugal.

In that moment, Vale do Lobo won a new future, becoming a luxury tourist resort.

Nowadays, Vale do Lobo possesses about 400 hectares, attracting residents and visitors because of its self-sufficiency, quality of the homes and for the excellent infrastructures and services that please all. Vale do Lobo is known by being one of the most important luxury enterprises of Europe, being the largest one in Portugal.

In the end of 2006, the resort was sold to a group of Portuguese and international investors, as well as to the largest Portuguese bank, Caixa Geral de Depositos. For now, Vale do Lobo is commanded by Diogo Gaspar Ferreira, the new Executive President.

Because of this new investment, the structure receives enough financial support to be able to carry forward the actual plan of service and the future expansion. There are in development some of the most important projects, like the Oceano Clube (Vale do Lobo II) and Vale Real (Vale do Lobo III).

Vale do Lobo is located in the coastal area of the centre of Algarve, in a rich area in history where the sun appears during the whole year. One of the attractive thing that justify the choice of the Vale do Lobo to live and to visit is their approximation to the Faro International Airport in about 20 minutes.

The Vale do Lobo Golf and Beach Resort is only three hours of flight of most of the European capitals. The enterprise is still about two and a half hours of the Portuguese capital, Lisbon, and of Seville, in Spain.

Loule, the happiness of the Carnival

The council of Loule is known by their traditions and beaches, but also by its famous Carnival party that looks like the brazilian. Nowadays, the Carnival of Loule has several themes, as the society, the political system and the most important events of the year. All those ingredients are mixed with a good critic dose full of good mood and diversion, but in the summer the council gets hotter.

The visitors seek Loule with the intention of taking advantage of their beaches, dispersed in a beautiful coast. The beaches of Vilamoura, Quarteira, Vale do Lobo, Garrao, Ancao, Quinta do Lago, and Falesia are authentic natural paradises and in the waters of Loule you can enjoy nautical sports.

The golf is also a sport very practiced in Loule, with countless fields. It might be for that reason that the council is known by being a demarcated area of the golf.

The golf courses extend from the Vila Sol to the Quinta do Logo, passing through Vilamoura, Quarteira, Vale Garrao, Ancao, Quinta do Lago, Vale do Lobo and Sao Lourenco, all in a natural gorgeous scenery.

Loule receives during the year great names of the world golf, and also intellectuals and politicians, artists and soccer professionals, musicians and people of businesses that come from everywhere to play golf.

The town promotes several sport and cultural events along the year, as Vale do Lobo Grand Champions and Algarve Summer Festival, one of the most important summer festivals of Portugal.

Loule also has a vast historical and cultural patrimony, like the Roman Bridge, Castles of Loule and of Salir, Mother church of Sao Clemente, Mother church of Sao Lourenco of Almancil, Small chapel of Nossa Senhora da Conceicao, Church of Sao Pedro do Mar, Mother church of Alte, Igreja Matiz of Nossa Senhora da Assuncao, Small chapel of Nossa Senhora das Portas do Ceu, Mother church of Sao Sebastiao, Church of Nossa Senhora da Gloria, besides the natural beauty of the gardens of Amuados and of Comunidades.

Other places of interest are the Archeological Station of Cerro da Vila and the historical area of Loule. In spite of having a vast history and a great dimension, the municipal district includes only two cities: Loule and Quarteira.

For the ones who tries to pass a very good night, Vilamoura is the centre of the nightlife of the council of Loule. Besides the famous dispersed bars along the sea area, as the Bar Seven, the soccer player’s Luis Figo property, El Salero, Irish Pub, among others.

Another attraction is the Casino of Vilamoura, a reference for the thousands of tourists that visit Algarve. Besides the room of the machines and of the roulette, the visitors can see beautiful shows. The Casino still concentrates one of the most popular discos of that area, Black Jack.

It is also in Vilamoura that is located another reference disco for all lovers of the nightlife, the Kadoc.

The city of Loule still has several bars, as well as the Campus, Joker and Breath, used by the academicals students. The Bar Satori is part of the itinerary of alternative bars of the country, there you can enjoy several rock shows and art exhibitions.

Quinta do Lago and the Square of Vale do Lobo are also other alternatives for the national and foreign tourists that prefer hotter nights of summer.

For who seeks an outdoor atmosphere, it is possible to visit the Municipal Park of Loule, where you can exercise yourself.

Loule is composed by the freguesias of Almancil, Alte, Ameixial, Benafim, Boliqueime, Quarteira, Querenca, Salir, Sao Clemente and Sao Sebastiao.

I hope to meet you soon in the Golden Triangle of Portugal!

Antonio Oliveira asked:


Vilamoura is the name given to an area rather than to any actual town. It is outstanding in that it is one of the largest single tourist complex in Europe and covers some 2.000 hectares of land.

The land is variable in its vegetation, some parts covered in pine forests whilst others open recovered marshland. The company that owns this complex is extremely environmentally conscious and has made every effort is being made to protect nature within its continued planned development.

Due to the size of the resort area it offers the visitor nearly every form of sport and entertainment. On the southern border is a long sandy beach swept by the Atlantic Ocean.

Amongst the many attractions and facilities there are six different Golf Courses, a large Marina, a Lawn Bowling Club with two grass Rinks, a Tennis Centre, a Sports Club, a Shooting Club, 5 Star and 4 Star Hotels, Tourist Apartments, self-catering Villas, Night Clubs, an International Casino with glamorous shows, a Cinema, and an excellent Riding School.

Within the centre of Vilamoura there is a preserved Roman Site and Museum of Cerro da Vila providing an interesting glimpse into the past of the area. In Roman times this location was important in producing a fish paste known as “garum”. The ruins also include the baths in which the mariners used to bathe.

As a location specifically designed for tourism it has proved to be a very successful holiday destination for all ages due to the variety of facilities that it provides holidaymakers.

Facilities include:

Restaurants

Cafes / Pubs

Post office

Banks

Petrol station

Supermarkets (with international products)

Railway station

Beautiful Marina

A large variety of Golf Courses

Approximate Driving time to Airports

Lisbon 2,5 hours

Faro 15 minutes

Porto 6,5 hours

Vale do Lobo is another part of the Golden Triangle and a history with success in the South of Portugal.

In 1962, was born the famous Vale do Lobo, the first tourist enterprise of Algarve, in south of Portugal. The project became real after the partnership of two multinationals: Trusthouse Fort plc and Costain plc.

When it was built, the area of Algarve was devoted fundamentally to the fishing and to the agriculture. With the arrival of the Vale do Lobo, the area met its first five stars hotel Le Meridien D. Filipa and its first golf course.

During the seventies, Sander van Gelder, the dutch entrepreneur linked to the industry of the jewellery store and diamonds with some stories in Holland, discovered the Vale do Lobo.

The enormous tourist potential of the resort attracted the entrepreneur, who acquired the company in 1977, moving with his family to Portugal. In that moment, Vale do Lobo won a new future, becoming a luxury tourist resort.

Nowadays, Vale do Lobo possesses about 400 hectares, attracting residents and visitors because of its self-sufficiency, quality of the homes and for the excellent infrastructures and services that please all. Vale do Lobo is known by being one of the most important luxury enterprises of Europe, being the largest one in Portugal.

In the end of 2006, the resort was sold to a group of portuguese and international investors, as well as to the largest portuguese bank, Caixa Geral de Depositos. For now, Vale do Lobo is commanded by Diogo Gaspar Ferreira, the new Executive President.

Because of this new investment, the structure receives enough financial support to be able to carry forward the actual plan of service and the future expansion. There are in development some of the most important projects, like the Oceano Clube (Vale do Lobo II) and Vale Real (Vale do Lobo III).

Vale do Lobo is located in the coastal area of the centre of Algarve, in a rich area in history where the sun appears during the whole year.

One of the attractive thing that justify the choice of the Vale do Lobo to live and to visit is their approximation to the Faro International Airport in about 20 minutes. The Vale do Lobo Golf and Beach Resort is only three hours of flight of most of the European capitals.

The resort is still about two and a half hours of the Portuguese capital, Lisbon, and of Seville, in Spain.

Enjoy the Golden Triangle of Portugal!

Andrew Gibson asked:


Portugal is a very small country in Europe. It offers a lot of options for a holidaymaker planning to visit Portugal. In Portugal there are some of the best luxury holiday villas and self catering apartments in Europe. Some of these stunning luxury villas with swimming pools are next to the wonderful golden coloured beaches in the Algarve. There are also holiday farm houses to rent that have been converted with many having swimming pools.

Portugal borders Spain and the south and west of the country is covered by the Atlantic Ocean. Portugal is blessed with great weather and the Gulf Stream influences the mountains lying to the north. There are some beautiful holiday villas and farm houses nestled in these mountains with spectacular views.

The major tourist destination in the country is the Algarve which is a coastline having over 100 beaches with holiday villas and the limestone cliffs along the coasts. This place is great for sunbathing and swimming. Algarve is famous for its whitewashed holiday homes and narrow streets which are cobbled up together. Portugal has high end restaurants and also locations that are very traditional.

Portugal has mind blowing lush landscapes and also hills which are round in structure. There are also vineyards which lie in acres that are very spectacular. There are also sandy beaches that offer the tourists cheap and good holidaying. In Portugal there are a lot of medieval cities; Lisbon which is also the capital and the historic and elegant city of Porto. Activities like golf in the Algarve, horse riding and fishing is a great pastime activities for a tourist staying in a holiday home.

Outdoor sports like tennis and cycling are popular family activities that are quite enjoyable activities in Portugal. All types of water sports like water polo and water ball are also available in Portugal. The beaches of Algarve’s offers sailing on the traditional sail boat called the Bom Dia through the beaches. There is also a dolphin safari in the deep oceans, where you can see wild dolphins. Other safaris include a Jeep safari that includes a full trip of the whole of Algarve. The food and drink of the Portuguese is quite delightful. It includes the sardines that are freshly prepared, Vino Verde, tasty pastries, and the port of rich tasting is something worth trying out. Many holiday makers on vacation to Portugal stay in self catering apartments to enjoy the local food and night life.

There is a national park in Penanda Geres; it is the only national park in Portugal. It is possible to rent holiday farmhouses in this area. De Montesinho is one of the most dense forests in all of Europe. Visitors will be treated to superb sceneries of endangered animals like wolves and the royal eagle.

Andrew Gibson asked:


Portugal has some of the best holiday villas to rent direct from their owners anywhere in Europe. There is a great selection of luxury holiday villas with swimming pools to choose from.

Portugal is regarded as one of the oldest countries in Western Europe. It is a country full of magnificent old churches, rambling historic castles and beautiful monuments. These are equally matched by the new era of buildings and technologies that have sprung up in recent years fuelled by a buoyant expanding economy.

Lisbon is internationally recognized as one of Western Europe’s most unspoiled cities. Many tourists also succumb to the temptation of visiting the delightful Sinatra and Cassias which are both easily accessible from Lisbon. Superb holiday villas, often with a beautiful medditeranian style await.

While travelling around Portugal, the discerning tourist cannot fail to be impressed by the numerous small villages. These radiate a feeling of peace and tranquillity often alien to the visiting tourist’s homeland. Many of these villages are hidden inside the rambling walls of old castles and the one thing that they all have in common is their stunning geographical locations. Fortunatly, holiday villas in these locations are in an abundance, so everyone can experience it for themselves.

The paradise island of Madeira, set just off the Atlantic draws in many tourists, again staying in quite superb holiday villas. They are attracted there by the abundance of local floral creating fantastic views set against the magnificent coastlines and mountainous regions. You could also be lucky enough to rent a holiday rental home here.

It is an area of long clean sandy beaches stretching out to some of the cleanest water in Europe. The area is recognized worldwide for its crystal clear waters that are mystically surrounded by dramatic cliffs. To top it off, the Algarve is regarded to have the best all round weather.

Many tourists simply come to Portugal for a relaxing holiday and in search of sun, sea and possibly golf. For those tourists looking to top up their suntans the region of Algarve fits the bill. Holiday villas here fit the bill for any sun loving fan. Pools often accompany these holiday homes.

Due to the superb weather conditions Portugal has many events that keeps the tourists coming back to see year after year. One such event held every October is the Angra do Heroismo International Jazz Festival. Over the years this event has grown to such an extent that it is now regarded as one of the best jazz festivals in Europe. Holiday homes at this time of year are hard to get, so for your perfect holiday home you might need to book early.

Not to be outdone, the central area of Portugal holds its own Festival, off The Estuary every year in late July, early August. During this festival the city of Aveiro bursts into life and excitement and the flocking tourists turn it into a city of colour and joy.

For those tourists looking for a more modern culture, there is an International Show Jumping competition held each July in Cascais. This internationally recognized event brings together some of the best horses and riders from around the world.

Portugal is in the fortunate position of having a culture and strong regional traditions that have developed over many centuries. This has led to a strong and varied type of architecture leading to the Portuguese claiming that they have the best examples of ancient architecture in the whole of Europe. Mixing this together with Portugal’s excellent climate helps make Portugal one of Europe’s leading tourist destinations.

Golf fans are not left out either. As well as having some of the best golf courses in Europe and a climate to match, Portugal hosts the Portugal Open each year. Holiday villas often aline these beautiful courses, so for any keen golf fan the perfect holiday home beckons.

It is no wonder that Portugal has turned into one of the top holiday destinations in Europe. A combination of climate, culture and architecture have help provide an ideal holiday location enjoyed by my tourists year after year.

Andrew Gibson asked:


More and more holiday makers are now choosing to stay in a holiday villa in Portugal during their vacations. Holiday villas are extremely popular in countries with a warmer climate and many of them have a swimming pool. There are many types of villa available to rent on your holiday and it is up to you to decide how much you want to spend and in what part of the world that you want to stay.

Once you have decided which country that you want to spend your holiday, you can then get down to the task of finding a villa. By looking on a direct holiday bookings web site will give you a great choice of holiday villas to choose from. It is then very easy to work your way through the selection of holiday villas that are available until you find the one that meets all of your requirements.

One of the best things about staying on your holidays in a holiday villa is the freedom that the villa offers you. You can use the holiday villa as a base to explore the local area or you can simply stay in and relax by the swimming pool. A holiday villa offers you great independence and you are not tied down to set meal times like in a hotel.

It is also handy for families staying in a holiday villa to be able to send the children up to their bedrooms to sleep. Often when staying in a hotel you have to go to bed at the same time as your children just to keep and eye on them. The great thing about a villa holiday is that when the children go to bed, you can stay downstairs watching the television or sitting by the side of the pool and have a drink.

Villa holidays also allow you to have the freedom to eat what you want and when you want. You are able to sample the local food and drink in restaurants or shop in the local shops and cook yourself back in your holiday villa. There is nothing better than barbecuing by the side of your villa swimming pool on a warm summers evening. You can cook local steak or try your hand at barbecuing some of the local fish that may be available in your area.

There are many holiday villas in all of the popular tourist destinations around the world. Many are available near to the theme parks and other holiday attractions. A holiday villa acts as an ideal base to explore the local area. One day you can leave your holiday villa and try out a theme park. The next day you can unwind and relax by the side of the pool in your holiday villa.

It is no wonder that staying in a holiday villa is one of the most popular types of holiday makers. Villa holidays are an ideal holiday for a family vacation and there are some superb villas out there to choose from. No matter what your budget or how many bedrooms you want, there is just about a holiday villa out there to suite all requirements.

Andrew Gibson asked:


Portugal is regarded as one of the oldest countries in Western Europe. It is a country full of magnificent old churches, rambling historic castles and beautiful monuments. These are equally matched by the new era of buildings and technologies that have sprung up in recent years fuelled by a buoyant expanding economy.

Portugal is in the fortunate position of having a culture and strong regional traditions that have developed over many centuries. This has led to a strong and varied type of architecture leading to the Portuguese claiming that they have the best examples of ancient architecture in the whole of Europe. Mixing this together with Portugal’s excellent climate helps make Portugal one of Europe’s leading tourist destinations.

Lisbon is internationally recognized as one of Western Europe’s most unspoiled cities. Many tourists also succumb to the temptation of visiting the delightful Sinatra and Cassias which are both easily accessible from Lisbon.

While travelling around Portugal, the discerning tourist cannot fail to be impressed by the numerous small villages. These radiate a feeling of peace and tranquillity often alien to the visiting tourist’s homeland. Many of these villages are hidden inside the rambling walls of old castles and the one thing that they all have in common is their stunning geographical locations.

The paradise island of Madeira set just off the Atlantic draws in many tourists. They are attracted there by the abundance of local floral creating fantastic views set against the magnificent coastlines and mountainous regions.

Many tourists simply come to Portugal for a relaxing holiday and in search of sun and sea. For those tourists looking to top up their suntans the region of Algarve fits the bill.

It is an area of long clean sandy beaches stretching out to some of the cleanest water in Europe. The area is recognized worldwide for its crystal clear waters that are mystically surrounded by dramatic cliffs. To top it off, the Algarve is regarded to have the best all round weather.

Due to the superb weather conditions Portugal has many events that keeps the tourists coming back to see year after year. One such event held every October is the Angra do Heroismo International Jazz Festival. Over the years this event has grown to such an extent that it is now regarded as one of the best jazz festivals in Europe.

Not to be outdone, the central area of Portugal holds its own Festival of The Estuary every year in late July, early August. During this festival the city of Aveiro bursts into life and the flocking tourists turn it into a city of colour and joy.

For those tourists looking for a more modern culture, there is an International Show Jumping competition held each July in Cascais. This internationally recognized event brings together some of the best horses and riders from around the world.

Golf fans are not left out either. As well as having some of the best golf courses in Europe and a climate to match, Portugal hosts the Portugal Open each year.

It is no wonder that Portugal has turned into one of the top holiday destinations in Europe. A combination of climate, culture and architecture have help provide an ideal holiday location enjoyed by my tourists year after year.

Andrew Gibson asked:


Mallorca is one of the most popular family holiday destinations in Europe. Families love to stay in holiday homes on this beautiful Mediterranean island which is full of stunning natural beauty. It is possible to rent magnificent holiday villas with swimming pools that have spectacular views and are beautifully furnished.

The island of Mallorca has a beautiful coastline that is full of secluded coves and bays. Many families come on vacation to Mallorca staying in one of the many self catering apartments or holiday homes that are available to rent direct from their owners.

Mallorca has the advantage of a hot summer sun whilst still often being blessed with refreshing sea breezes. In the winter the weather is mild, although night times can get quite cool. The islands are in an ideal geographical position, in terms of weather. The Mediterranean climate is pleasantly moderate. Winter weather in Mallorca is surprisingly mild and dry.

Summer months are still comfortable thanks to the influence of the sea, even during the maximum temperatures. Mallorca enjoys around 300 days of sunshine throughout the year. These ideal weather conditions make it an ideal year round holiday destination for families on vacation staying in holiday homes.

Mallorca is the largest of the Balearic Islands with over 500 km of coastline. Dotted all the way along this stunning coastline are holiday villas and holiday cottages that are available to rent. Further inland lie some traditional holiday farmhouses that are extremely popular with families staying in holiday homes.

Mallorca’s landscape is very varied, due to its geological formation. The Tramuntana mountain range is made up of a line of mountains running parallel to the north west coast, the highest of which is Puig Major. The mountains drop down around the coastline which is made up of tiny villages, sand, pebble and rock beaches. Each in turn surrounded by the imposing mountain range. It is now possible to stay in self catering accommodation in many of these small villages.

Lovers of the outdoors go hiking in the mountains and many tourists stay in one of the many rustic holiday farmhouses that are available to rent direct from their owners. The mountains are the main source of the island’s fresh water which snakes its way down to the island’s

Mallorca’s north east coast has a beautiful bay which is home to the popular resorts of Can Picafort and Alcudia. Many tourists stay here in self catering apartments or holiday villas. Nearer the island’s most northerly point at Cap de Formentor is Puerto Pollensa. Many tourists stay here in some of the self catering cottages and holiday farmhouses. They then use these holiday homes as bases to explore the local countryside. This part of the island is extremely popular with cyclists, walkers and birdwatchers.

Mallorca is now a very popular holiday destination for family holidays. It has a tremendous selection of self catering accommodation available to rent and there are holiday homes to fit almost all budgets.

Andrew Gibson asked:


Ibiza is also known as the White Island and it is regarded as the most beautiful of the three Balearic islands. It is an ideal location for family holidays in the sun with some of the best holiday villas with swimming pools in Europe.

Ibiza is an island made up of spectacular cove beaches, towering cliffs and magnificent pine forests. The capital of Ibiza is one of Europe’s oldest towns and has some superb architecture.

Families go on holiday to Ibiza and stay in holiday homes or apartments and they are drawn there by the perfect climate. Ibiza is a sun lover’s perfect paradise. It has mild weather in winter and warm weather in summer. The climate makes it ideal for many different sports and other activities to be carried out throughout the whole year.

It is not just sunbathers who love Ibiza, but also for hikers, divers and water sports lovers. Many stay in the beautiful luxurious villas with swimming pools that are dotted all over the island. Some holiday makers prefer to rent self catering apartments or one of the many small cottages or farmhouses that are available to rent from their holiday home owners.

Ibiza is split into five municipalities: Sant Josep de sa Talaia, Sant Antoni de Portmany, Sant Joan de Labritja, Santa Eularia des Riu, and Eivissa. Each are popular tourist destinations and are ideal for people wanting to rent holiday homes. A wide range of holiday home rentals can be selected with beach bungalows, villas, guest houses, apartments, small houses, country houses and fincas available throughout the whole island.

Self catering apartments are very popular in Ibiza town and those families on vacations looking for a more relaxing holiday may choose from many beautiful locations throughout the stunning countryside. It is possible to hire a villa with swimming pool overlooking the breathtaking beaches draw tourists back to this beautiful island year after year.

Holiday home accommodation in Ibiza offers a great variety and diversity of holiday homes to rent, to choose from. It does not matter if you are going there on a short romantic break or a sun loving family holiday, there are plenty of self catering holiday homes to choose from. Ibiza is an island full of quaint coastal towns, peaceful country villages and Ibiza town where the more lively tourists like to stay in self catering apartments.

The island is full of culture, luxury and good food. It is an ideal base for sun bathing, water sports, fishing and sailing. The island has everything that a tourist could possibly ever want. Villas with swimming pools, self catering apartments, small cottages and farmhouses are all great holiday homes to rent in Ibiza.

Andrew Gibson asked:


Hungary is growing more popular each year with tourists going on a family holiday and staying in a holiday home. It sits in the middle of Europe and borders seven countries giving it a broad diversity of culture and foods. Hungary is a country of superb scenery and unspoilt natural environments.

In recent years many holiday homes have been made available by their owners for tourists to rent. It is now easy to rent holiday villas and self catering apartments.

Summer months are the main months for people taking a family holiday to Hungary. It has a warm sunny summer climate and cold winters with snow. Skiing and snowboarding are now popular winter sports in Hungary and ski chalets are available to rent along with self catering apartments.

Lovers of the outdoor lifestyle can rent a holiday cottage in the mountains, hiking, climbing, horse-riding, fishing and swimming are just a few activities that can be enjoyed. For people wanting to go on a fishing holiday, they can rent a villa with a swimming pool in one of the many villas around Lake Balaton.

Hungarian wine is now a growth industry and some holiday makers come on short breaks to Hungary and take trips around the local vineyards. Staying in a holiday home provides an ideal base to explore the village markets and sampling the home grown food.

Budapest is regarded as the ‘Paris of eastern Europe’ and is now a very popular tourist destination. It is a city full of great contrast in architectural styles with the new mixed in with the old. Many couples take a romantic break to Budapest and stay in one of the many fabulous self catering apartments.

Tourists to Budapest like to explore the local museums and many take a trip round its hilltop castle. They may then return to their holiday home rental before visiting one of Budapest’s many spas and thermal baths. The more energetic tourist may take one of the many walking tours of the city. Budapest is also famous for its pulsating nightlife and many couples visit for long weekend breaks staying in self catering holiday apartments.

It is said that the most beautiful stretch of the river Danube is the Danube Bend and many holiday makers come especially to visit it. It begins at Esztergom, and then twists and curves past Visegrad where it splits in two. The entire area consists of peaks, resorts and small towns along the river. Many people spend their vacation in one of the holiday cottages or villas with swimming pools that are dotted along the path of this famous river.

It passes Pilis Park Forest and the Borzsony Protected Area which is part of the Danubi-Ipoly National Park where the hills, forges and trails have much to offer. These trails are also popular with tourists who take hiking holidays and stay in small farmhouses that can be rented from their owners.

Lake Balaton is referred to as Hungary’s inland sea. This area has some fabulous holiday villas and cottages that can be rented as holiday homes. It is great for swimming, boating and fishing and many tourists are enchanted by its tranquil setting.

The Matra and Bukk mountains are in the North East of Hungary. Miles and miles of trails stretch through the forests and meadows of the mountains here. They are ideal for walking, mountain biking but especially horse riding. Just a short trip from Budapest brings you to this beautiful part of the country where many families come on their vacations staying in holiday homes.

Patrick Omari asked:


Last week I found an interesting email in my inbox from a long lost friend. This friend wanted me to propose, or rather help them decide, where to on holiday this summer. The email went like “Buddy really want to see new things and go to new places this summer. I need to get out and experience new things! Where do you go? The other problem is that with Knight gone, I don’t have anybody to go hangout with. I would love to meet new people. Can you help out?”

This email has kept me thinking the whole weekend. I have reproduced below the abridged version of the notes I sent to my friend in distress, for the benefit of those British tourists running late with plans for their summer holidays.

How many times have you felt like you haven’t really taken advantage of living in your very own beautiful city? Often we get comfortable in our routine and hang out at home or down the pub. We have done the zoo a few times and stuff like that. The often-recited reason is the rhetorical question, but what other things are there to do in this city? Perhaps, spooked by horror tales of tourists being attacked abroad, we have tended to stay within our comfort zones.

Summer can be long if you do not plan ahead. Clearly, this summer will be more expensive than the last for travellers. In fact, some experts think that travelling this summer will be pricier than at any time in the past decade since the euro was introduced. About four million Britons go on holiday in the eurozone each year. The prediction is that due to recent changes in the value of the pound versus the euro, trips to eurozone will cost extra. No wonder British holidaymakers are looking at the US this summer, where the pound still buys two dollars. Travel operators are hinting that non-euro destinations are getting a fair share of British tourists this time round compared to last summer.

So for those going to the USA and Canada, the pull factor is that the pound will give more.Tthe exchange rate is good: almost 2 dollars to the pound. So what is the pound likely to buy you in the USA or Canada? The cities are buzzing, there are parties everywhere. You can generally get to a beach for little money, or the mountains; hiking is relatively inexpensive.

I wouldn’t be surprised if a lot of locations have free concerts. Get the local paper; it is a good source of information for cheap entertainment. If you like good food and beautiful surroundings, these two destinations will offer you the best. If you are looking for fun and adventure, then you will need to consult more travel web sites for both last minute cheap flights and hotels and also for less packaged trips. Over-packaged trips can tend to be boring and restrictive if you are adventurous.

Lastly, don’t forget an African safari holiday. The pound is very strong here and you will get a lot out of your holiday money. A trip to Maasai Mara national Park, Tsavo Park, and Serengeti National Park all in East Africa are good destinations. Especially this summer because beds are half empty due to tourists staying away early in the year after the political crises in Kenya. But now the situation has gone back to normal, check all relevant web sites.