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Archive for May, 2008

The Cliffs, Torquay

Monday, May 26th, 2008

2 bedrooms (sleeps 4/5).Finished to a high standard throughout.Amazing uninterrupted sea views.Close to beaches and other attractions. LCD television in lounge and bedrooms.This brand new, deluxe self-catering apartment has everything the modern holidaymaker desires. Situated on the cliff-edge of Babbacombe, just 2 miles from Torquay harbour, this two bedroom holiday apartment is luxury at it?s finest! The breathtaking uninterrupted views from the apartment showcase the gorgeous landscape of Lyme Regis, Exmouth, Sidmouth and Budleigh Salterton. The open-plan design allows couples and families to enjoy one of the best views of the South English Coast from the living area through to the kitchen. Living InformationA sumptuous living area containing 1x leather corner group sofa and 1x leather armchair. 32″ High-Definition LCD television with Digital Freeview, DVD player, CD Stereo system. A selection of books, magazines and DVDs, including children’s DVD’s. Kitchen InformationKitchen Fully fitted to a very high standard including a dishwasher, American-style fridge/freezer with water and ice, oven and microwave, washing machine and tumble dryer. A children’s high chair and travel cot can be provided at no additional cost. A telephone with honesty box is provided. Dining The dining area comprises of a table and six matching chairs. Sleeping InformationMaster Bedroom Fantastic sea views. Contains a queen size bed and a fitted wardrobe. For your entertainment and relaxation, a 20? LCD television with digital channels and a DVD player is built-in. Bedroom Two Contains two twin beds (which convert to a queen double bed for a couple) and a futon and can accommodate three children or adults and also looks out over a sea view. Fitted wardrobe and a 20? LCD television with digital channels and DVD player. Bathroom InformationA fully fitted bathroom with a separate shower and bath, toilet and basin and heated towel rail. Outside InformationEntrance is above the Cliff Railway Cafe with a private entrance and a flight of stairs. The Cafe is only open 9.30am until 5.30pm in the summer and from 9.30am until 4.30pm in the winter. On-street parking is unrestricted. Breathtaking uninterrupted views from the apartment. Positioned above Oddicombe Beach. This brand new, deluxe self-catering apartment is situated on the cliff-edge of Babbacombe above Oddicombe Beach, just 2 miles from Torquay harbour.

Visit Orlando

Monday, May 26th, 2008

Although the madness of an Orlando vacation might seem scary at times with the number of theme parks to visit, this city has more for the visitor if they want something a little different. There are enough shops, markets, museums, art galleries and much more in Orlando to keep even the most ‘difficult to please’ person occupied. Whilst many people that visit are first timers, more are returning for their second, third or more time as there is always something new to see.

It is a great place to visit even if you only have shopping on your mind as Orlando area is full of beautiful shopping malls, restaurants and shops of every type. With so many things to see, the information provided here cannot even brush the surface of what you can see on an Orlando Vacation, but it will give an insight into some of the ‘not so well publicized’ attractions.

The Central Florida Zoo for instance only opened back in 1975 and was owned by the Sanford Fire Department prior to that but is now the home to over four hundred animals. Privately owned, this zoo is also a botanical garden run by a charitable group whose purpose is to protect native and endangered species around the world.

You may have heard of the name Tiffany’s but did you know that it was way back in 1942 that the Morse Museum in Winter Park that started displaying the collections of Louis Tiffany. The famous chapel interior commissioned for the World’s Columbian Exhibition back in 1893 is also here along with many items of Tiffany jewelry, leaded glass, ornaments and clayware.

Orlando is certainly a city for all age groups and not solely designed for the amusement of children as family and adult attractions are in equal numbers. For tourists that like to burn the candle at both ends there is a range of nightly entertainment on an Orlando vacation from themed family evenings like Pirates Adventure to clubs, bars and restaurants.

Take the Orlando Science Center which can offer over 200,000 square feet of exhibitions and displays in ten huge halls; its focus is to provide a basis for experimenting, and learning science and technology. If your preference is in railways then the International Trolley and Train Museum on International drive will be a pleasant surprise with 14 trains running continuously and three waterfalls in a space of about 4,000 square feet.

For something a little different there’s the Titanic Exhibition which tells the story of the ill fated Ocean Liner performed by a character from the ship; the displays contain some original salvaged items and at times the tour is very moving. Of course if you prefer something more relaxing then you should visit Lake Eola Park, situated in the heart of downtown; this is the city’s main attraction with 43 acres of beautiful sidewalks and a boating lake.

Not all theme parks in Orlando are based purely on rides as the fantastic Seaworld will attest but if you want rides then you have the Disney resort theme parks and Universal studios too. If you are on you first Orlando vacation, try to visit all the major attractions first because it is almost certain you will return again another year.

Visiting Paris

Sunday, May 25th, 2008

Although it isn’t a well publicized fact, Paris is the second largest European city; ideally situated along the banks of the river Seine. Unfortunately a Paris short stay can only ever be considered a taster; most people quickly discover that a few days is not really enough.

Visitors flock to see its many wonderful buildings; it is the home of the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre and many other famous tourist attractions. Visitors to Paris as well as its citizens can travel around Paris easily; the Metro underground train network will probably be the main method as it runs regularly and reaches every part of the city.

No visit would be complete without a trip to the top of the almost 1,000 feet tall Eiffel tower; it can be seen throughout most locations around the city. At night, it comes alive with lights that have to be seen to be believed; if you are really enthusiastic you can take a tour where the guide will tell you how this beautiful tower was built.

On your Paris trip ensure you add the famous Champs Elysees to your list of places to visit; if you want to see famous, designer label shops and the restaurants, this is the place. When you visit this region of the city you will see it is a much more select area; the exclusive five star hotels situated in this more select part of the city might be out of most visitors’ price range.

The city’s famous museum, the Louvre is huge and worth a visit if you have the time; with almost a third of a million exhibits, you will not be able to see everything in one trip. There are enough art exhibits to keep you occupied for more time than your short stay in Paris would allow; with the likes of Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa to view in addition to some of the finest collections of art in the world. Many well known artists spent years of their lives in Paris; the likes of Monet, Picasso and many others lived in the city for years and some of their work can still be seen today.

Another famous Paris attraction is The Arc de Triomphe which was built within the first decade of the nineteenth century; it provides visitors with a wonderful photo experience because it contains the names of every one of his generals. The Arc is the focal point of the city and contains an observatory to view the local area; it stands in the place where the city’s main avenues begin including the Champs Elysees.

You will not be at a loss for places to visit whilst in the city; there are plenty of others to keep you occupied but to make the most of your time, use one of the guided tours. Paris short stay vacations should only ever be considered as tasters for what is a truly magnificent city; what you aren’t able to this time will have to wait for another occasion.

Babbacombe, Bay Fort, Torquay

Sunday, May 25th, 2008

One bedroom apartment, sleeps 2.Central location.Sea views overlooking Torquay beach, marina and promenade. Patio and communal garden.Pets allowed.Bay Fort Mansions is a lovely Victorian villa sympathetically converted into holiday accommodation overlooking Torquay marina, Torre Sands and the sea. Babbacombe apartment benefits from this south facing location with panoramic views over Torquay and across the bay to Paignton and Brixham. Living InformationA light and airy living area furnished in a classic style. A double sofa bed and an armchair. Access to the patio area. Entertainment provided by a 37″ Plasma TV with Digital Freeview and DVD player. Kitchen InformationKitchen Features 4 electric hobs with hood over, fridge/freezer, microwave and an electric oven with grill, a white kettle and toaster. Dining The dining area is in the bay window, enjoying wonderful views, and comprising a drop leaf pedestal table with 4 chairs. Sleeping InformationFantastic views over the bay. Features two single beds with pale pink brocade headboards. 2 door wardrobe, matching bedside drawers. 5 drawer chest with mirror over. Bathroom InformationA bath with electric shower, w.c., wash basin, shaver point and heated towel rail. Outside InformationAccess is through the main entrance then down a flight of stairs. Patio with furniture. Use of communal gardens. On street parking available. An updated apartment in a prime position on the English Riviera with views across the bay and a patio to make the most of the location.

Visiting Paris

Saturday, May 24th, 2008

One of the favorite city destinations in Western Europe noted for its romantic appeal is Paris; sitting astride either side of the river Seine it is one of the world’s most popular cities. Unfortunately a Paris short stay can only ever be considered a taster; most people promise to return as so much they wanted to see will have been missed.

It is renowned for its wonderful gothic inspired buildings and street markets; plus sights like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre and many other places that are havens for tourists, both home grown and international. Traveling through the city of Paris can be very enjoyable; the underground train system or Metro can take you to anywhere within the city and is simple to use.

It wouldn’t be possible to visit this city without a trip to the top of the famous steel structure known as the Eiffel Tower; it can be seen throughout most locations around the city. At night, it comes alive with lights that have to be seen to be believed; guided tours add to the thrill as you get to peek into history on how it was constructed.

The famous Paris Avenue ‘the Champs Elysees’ must also receive a visit; it will present you with many famous designer shops and good restaurants. When you visit this region of the city you will see it is a much more select area; top class hotels are found here, although if you want to stay at a more reasonably priced hotel, they are available outside of the city center.

This city is also the home to the renowned Louvre Museum; with almost a third of a million exhibits, you will not be able to see everything in one trip. It would be easy for anyone on a Paris short stay vacation to spend all their time here; approximately 8 million visitors a year come to see the Venus de Milo and the Mona Lisa, both of which are on display. Many well known artists spent years of their lives in Paris; the likes of Monet, Picasso and many others lived in the city for years and some of their work can still be seen today.

The famous 19th century edifice built on Napoleons instructions, the Arc de Triomphe, is also in Paris; the names of his generals are engraved on its surface and another of those ‘must have’ photo land marks. It also features an observatory to take in surrounding views; including all the avenues of which it is a focal point.

Obviously, these are not the only places to visit; these are however, the most popular with regular tours arranged, many of which are either free or at a subsidized cost. A Paris Short stay vacation should only ever be considered a sample of what the city can offer; those attractions that cannot be seen will still be there the next time you visit.

Cider Barn, Park Mill Farm - Devon

Saturday, May 24th, 2008

One bedroom barn conversion, sleeps 2.Finished to an exceptionally high standard thoughout.Private terrace with table and 4 chairs.Wood burning stove.Allocated parking.A beautiful period barn conversion where no expense has been spared to provide a unique holiday home. Brand new this year, Cider Barn has retained many original features and has high quality, state of the art kitchens and bathrooms that are in keeping with the age of the property. Original beamed, vaulted ceilings with galleried features create a light, airy and spacious feeling whilst ?wood burning? stoves in each cottage make them equally appealing for cosy winter breaks. The Park Mill Farm cottages are situated in a magical riverside setting with 20 acres of lush fields, woods and parkland where you are free to roam along with the abundant wildlife. There are two rivers running through the property and a private fishing lake with free fishing for guests. River fishing requires a licence which can be obtained at any post office. Carp, brown trout and salmon can be caught here. All cottages have natural slate flagstones throughout ground floors while the upper floors all have solid oak flooring. All doors and window frames are attractive solid timber and many windows have deep window seats and most look out over fields and farmlands. Under floor heating and hot water is provided by a ?ground source heat pump?, an eco friendly ?green? system. Waste water is cleansed and disposed of through a special water treatment plant. The Cider Barn has a double connecting door opening into its neighbouring cottage, Old Dairy, so that they may be booked together for larger groups. These doors will be securely locked if not requested. Living Information- Located upstairs the open plan living area has a premuim black leather 3 seater sofa. - Flat widescreen TV with FreeSky and DVD player. - Vaulted, beamed ceiling. - Woodburning stove. - Stairways are all hand built in genuine solid wood with expensive handrails and balustrades. - Internet connection and phone access is available in the summer house. - Door out to side entrance. Kitchen Information- Each kitchen is fitted with a dishwasher, washer/dryer, fridge/freezer and microwave. Utensils and crockery are plentiful and of good quality. - A good range of modern units for plenty of storage. Dining- Individually designed, hand made dining table and 2 chairs in natural timber. Sleeping InformationBedroom one- Located on the ground floor the room is furnished with 5ft double bed. - Individually designed hand made furniture in natural timber including wardrobe, chest drawers and bedside units. - Flat screen TV provided for entertainment. - Double French doors out to private terrace with table and 2 chairs. - Small entrance hallway with double connecting door to ?Old Dairy? cottage apartment next door. (This will be locked unless requesting to use both properties). Bathroom Information- Bathroom comprises a beautiful Victorian pedestal roll top bath with shower attachment, w.c.. and wash basin. - Finished with luxurious travertine tiling and top quality fittings. - Heated towel rail and a shaver point over basin. Outside Information- Outside terraces are all natural sandstone and hardwood patio furniture with fences between for privacy. - Set in the grounds adjacent to the property is a barbecue area and also a summerhouse where there is an internet connection and phone access. (Mobile phone reception is poor). - Also in the summer house is a stock of games, DVDs and books. - Each unit has one own parking space(s). There is also some additional visitor parking. A beautiful period barn conversion where no expense has been spared to provide a unique holiday home. Situated in a magical riverside setting with 20 acres of lush fields, woods and parkland for you roam freely along with the abundant wildlife.

Business Travel Tips

Friday, May 23rd, 2008

Companies everywhere are finding they need to travel more if they want to meet new customers and to capture new sources of business; even the smallest company can have customers anywhere in the world now. However, anyone who has spent a great deal of their time traveling for their business will tell you just how tiring it can be. With that in mind, this business travel tips article highlights some useful information that could make your business journeys more pleasurable.

One thing that will probably happen at some stage is your luggage will go missing which can be a real problem for anyone traveling but more so if you are on business. So, wherever possible, pack as much as you can into your carry on luggage.

Having everything to hand means that your checked luggage get delayed you will still be able to meet with clients and get your work done while you wait for less essential stuff to get chased up by the airlines. When you do pack the main luggage, the clothes you won’t be carrying on as hand luggage, make sure to pack only what you need for this trip.

The easiest way to do this is to only take one pair of casual shoes and work pair; keep your work clothes to exactly what you need for the tip and likewise clothes for when you are on your leisure time. The only other essentials to pack are your toiletries and any non-essential business information that you might require.

To make further space and allow you to pack a smaller bag, roll your clothing into tight cylinders; this allows you to pack things tightly and will help you to avoid wrinkles – try to remember this useful business travel tip. If you carry dark clothing with you it can help if anything is spilt on them as it is harder to see stains on dark clothes.

Of course if you are working to a tight schedule and the inevitable delay happens then you want to know you can attend a meeting at a moments notice and the way to freshen up is by using those hand and face wipes that come in travel packs. Cell phones and other related equipment normally have good battery life but don’t forget to take a charger if you are going to be somewhere for more than a few days.

If you make effective use of your day time ‘downtime’ while you are traveling, then you may be able to spend evenings exploring the areas once when you arrive at your business trip destination. Regular business travelers make these preparations before every trip to ensure the business side of it goes without a hitch.

These few business travel tips if used, can make the difference between a relaxing few days when you travel on business, or a more stressful time if you decide to not to use them.

50 Esplanade Court, Paignton

Thursday, May 22nd, 2008

A one bedroom apartment, sleeping 4/6.First floor location. Use of communal swimming pool and gardens.Designated parking space.Central location.New Esplanade Court is a two storey block of holiday apartments built in a U shape around a landscaped garden with a heated swimming pool for the use of residents only. Set on a private road just off the main Esplanade, there is a degree of peace and tranquillity, whilst retaining the benefits of this central location. Paignton Green and beach are literally 2 minutes away, as is the town centre. No. 50 is a first floor apartment sleeping 4/6. Living InformationThe living area has 2 double sofabeds (although only enough room for one to be made into a bed at any one time). Entertainment is provided by a TV/DVD player and CD player. Kitchen InformationKitchen The kitchenette is equipped with a full electric cooker with 4 hobs, microwave, kettle, toaster, cafetiere, crockery and cutlery. Dining The dining area has a table and four chairs. Sleeping InformationA spacious bedroom with a double bed, bunk beds, a built-in double wardrobe and matching bedroom furniture. There is also a TV and CD/radio player. Bathroom InformationThe white bathroom has a wash basin, w.c., and bath with an electric shower. Outside InformationNumber 50 is a one bedroom first floor apartment. Designated parking space. Entrance is gained via a swipe card system. Use of communal gardens and heated swimming pool. A 2 minute walk from the beach and centre. 50 New Esplanade Court is a first floor apartment in a U shaped block surrounding a landscaped garden with a heated swimming pool for the use of guests. Set on a private road just off the main Esplanade, there is a degree of peace and tranquillity, whilst retaining the benefits of this central location.

Cheap Hire Cars

Thursday, May 22nd, 2008

For regular travelers the use of budget car rentals is more of a necessity than a luxury; getting around by taxi is ok, providing you don’t mind waiting or the expensive fares! The one thing you don’t want though is to be lumbered with a car that sounds like your lawnmower. Do not forget, the idea is to rent a car inexpensively, not one that is destined to be scrapped the minute you return it. Now that I have you concerned, I am going to give you a few points to look for when arranging a rental car.

If you’re not choosy about what car you rent, try to get your budget car rental through sites that let you choose cars at your own price. Often the site will not only get you the best deal but may even throw in an unlimited mileage just to get the deal. It is not unusual to find that package deals that incorporate a flight and rental car, provide other incentives such as a vehicle upgrade for instance although this is rarely the case if you book with one of the airlines directly. The convenience of renting your car online at the airlines web site is usually offset by the higher charge you will pay.

Budget car rental is now a growing area of online car rental so do not let the low prices put you off. You will often find that there are discounts and extras available but only from the company’s web site. Do not always take the first offer that comes your way, unless you are limited on time because there are bound to be other discount offers available if you have the time to take a look. In addition to that, you can rent a car in the comfort of your own home, now beat that!

Discounts are often available that you don’t realize; they are those that have been arranged between the budget car rental company and your credit card company so it is worth checking as you can save even more money. Perhaps your frequent flyer program or military service can help reduce the cost of renting a car; it’s a long shot but it’s worth a try.

You would be wise to inspect your rental car before you drive off as you may find minor collision damage from previous renters which you do not want to pay for when you return. In addition, try to check out all the accessories, wipers, radio, brakes, seat belts etc, to familiarize yourself with them, and also to check if they work, like the previous tip, you might be charged for this if you don’t inform them.

Before you decide to use the rental company’s insurance plans, take a look at your own policy as you will probably find that it covers rental car insurance as well. Saving money is the game so why pay for rental car insurance you don’t need when renting your car; irrespective of the situation, don’t think that it isn’t an important aspect either because insurance is still required by law.

Always make sure you have auto insurance as the penalties for driving without adequate cover are severe.

The Farmhouse Badham Farm Looe

Wednesday, May 21st, 2008

A large Cornish farmhouse.4 Bedrooms, sleeps 10.Private garden.Stunning surrounding views.Escape to a truly idyllic location in South East Cornwall. Access via country lanes ensures Badham Farm offers complete peace and quiet in a wooded valley away from all main roads. The farm was once part of Prince Charles’ Duchy Estate and is situated alongside the Looe Valley railway line in 10 acres of grounds, bordered by a small stream. Badham Farm has excellent onsite facilities with a well stocked fishing lake, full size tennis court, putting green, outdoor badminton court, woodland walks, children?s play area, animal and bird paddock where the children can help with daily feeds, a new gym with a full range of equipment and a jacuzzi for relaxing afterwards (small fee for private hire), large games room for the children, separate bar with bar billiards open every evening, plus a barbecue and picnic area for a great al-fresco experience. Living InformationThe Farmhouse has a spacious living area with the original stone fireplace. Benefits from a sun lounge with furniture. The living area features comfy sofas and a coffee table. Entertainment is provided by a TV, video, DVD player and stereo system. Kitchen InformationKitchen The fully fitted kitchen features integrated appliances such as electric oven and hob, fridge/freezer, dishwasher, washer/dryer and microwave, kettle, toaster, coffee maker, and full set of cutlery and crockery to complete the facilities. Dining There is a lovely dining room which features a large dining table and seating for 10 people. Sleeping InformationBedroom One Features a double bed and bunk beds with bedside tables and bedside lamps. Storage is provided by wardrobes which offer plenty of space and this family bedroom benefits from a wash basin. Bedroom Two Features a double bed with bedside tables and lamps. Storage is provided by wardrobe which offers plenty of storage and features wash hand basin. Bedroom Three Features twin beds with bedside tables and lamps. Storage is provided by wardrobe which offers plenty of storage. Wash basin. Bedroom Four Features twin beds with bedside tables and lamps. Storage is provided by wardrobe which offers plenty of storage. Bathroom InformationMain Bathroom The luxury modern bathroom features a bath with power shower, w.c., wash basin and mirror. Shower room The modern shower room offers a walk in power shower, w.c., wash basin and mirror. Outside InformationA traditonal period farmhouse which has been refurbished to a very high standard. Set within the 10 acres of farmland that was once part of Prince Charles’ Duchy Estate. Private garden and patio area with outdoor furniture and gas barbecue. Excellent on-site facilities including a fishing lake, tennis courts, children’s play area, animal paddock, gym and jacuzzi (fee payable). Communal picnic and BBQ area. Three designated parking spaces. Escape to a truly idyllic location in South East Cornwall. Access via country lanes ensures Badham Farm offers complete peace and quiet in a wooded valley away from all main roads.