Archive for July, 2008

Windy Ridge, Torquay

Monday, July 21st, 2008

4 bedrooms (1 en-suite), sleeps 7.Spacious and well appointed throughout.Panoramic views across the bay and out to sea. Large garden and two patio areas enjoying the view.Please note Friday to Friday changeover during July and August.Windy Ridge is a large house in a select part of Torquay. With panoramic views across the bay from most rooms and a sizeable garden, this detached property is a fantastic holiday base for simply relaxing and exploring the area. Entrance to the property is via a driveway with parking for three cars. To the rear of the property there is an impressive enclosed garden with panoramic bay and sea views. There is a full width patio area with furniture and a second patio area with bench at the bottom of the garden, beyond the large lawned area. Living InformationA large and light living/dining area. Two sets of patio doors leading onto the large garden area. 3x two seater leather sofas and matching footstools. Entertainment is provided by a widescreen TV with DVD player. A further “snug” style lounge leads from the kitchen and includes a two seater sofa, occasional furniture. Doors lead to the garden area. Kitchen InformationKitchen Large, modern kitchen comprising of white units and dark grey marble effect work tops. There is a range oven with six hobs, a dishwasher, microwave, kettle and a quad slice toaster. A chrome and glass topped dining table and 4 high-backed matching chairs is also provided. Off the kitchen there is a utility room next to the kitchen with the fridge/freezer in it and all the cleaning utensils. Dining The dining area has a long light pine and dark marble dining table with 6 high-backed cream leather chairs. There is also an antique style corner unit with a Queen Anne style drinks cabinet, and garden access through the sliding patio doors. Sleeping InformationMaster Bedroom Enjoys stunning sea views of Torbay. Comprises of a double bed, two bedside units with lamps, a four drawer chest, and a sliding door, mirror fronted double wardrobe. There is also a television available. En-suite bathroom. Bedroom Two Is a twin bedded room with the same stunning sea views. It includes three drawer unit and a pine double wardrobe. Bedroom Three This room also enjoys the wonderful sea views. Another twin bedded room with a five drawer unit, a three drawer bedside cabinet and a sliding, mirror fronted double wardrobe. Bedroom Four Single bedded room at the side of the property with open hanging space. Bathroom InformationMain Bathroom The family bathroom has a skylight with a bath with electric shower over, w.c., wash basin and a large mirrored cabinet with shaver point. En-suite Bathroom to Master Bedroom Set down two steps, with a corner bath, w.c. and a wash basin. The downstairs cloakroom is opposite the kitchen and has a w.c. and a separate area with a wash basin whilst there is also a washing machine. Outside InformationFantastic views from most rooms. Large detached property with extensive private garden. Two patio areas with outdoor furniture. Parking for up to three vehicles. Windy Ridge is a large house in a select part of Torquay. With panoramic views across the bay from most rooms and a sizeable garden, this detached property is a fantastic holiday base for simply relaxing and exploring the area.

Caribbean Cruises

Monday, July 21st, 2008

For sometime now the number of people deciding on a Caribbean cruise vacation has been on the increase; this could be a vacation of a lifetime because it will be one you never forget. A cruise liner holiday is a combination of amazing entertainment, wonderful activities and an opportunity to visit the idyllic islands of the Caribbean. How long you sail for really is up to your budget and what standard of cabin you want but these tours can be add-ons for other vacations or as long as fourteen or more days.

Whilst this type of vacation has become widespread each vacationer has diverse needs so there are many different packages available as it is a time for unwinding, enjoyment and revitalization. If anything, you will have a hard time keeping up with everything that you can possibly do on a cruise liner.

In any situation where you are spending a great deal of money, it is worth checking out a few details that should put you on the right track and you travel agency will be a good place to start. Each Caribbean cruise will visit a certain number of islands on that particular voyage so you must decide if you want to visit certain islands like Jamaica, Bermuda, Bahamas or Antigua for example.

Disco loving people that don’t like to sleep will enjoy those cruise vacations that arrange activity filled days and non-stop party evenings. Even though your tour operator should be able to provide information on the types of Caribbean cruise packages that are available, there will probably be more advice to be found on the web sites.

Of course you will need to take all the usual changes of clothing you have for a vacation but ships have many more evening functions which require a little more thought. These are the sort of times when you will need to have a tuxedo for men and evening gown for women as part of your attire.

Don’t worry if you are uncertain about taking your children along on a cruise vacations because there will be plenty for them to do without you needing to be close at hand, watching over them. In actual fact there is specially trained staff to take care of children that can provide entertainment activities throughout the entire day and during the voyage.

Couples can take a romantic Caribbean cruise vacation and you will have the holiday you look forward to on a vacation vessel that is for adults only. Other cruise liner packages are available and have been created for special occasions like weddings, honeymoons and anniversaries.

A Caribbean cruise will be your vacation of a lifetime as it has the scenery, locations, beaches and the first class service you can expect on board a cruise liner whether you are alone or with others.

Business Travel Tips

Sunday, July 20th, 2008

Business travel is on the rise as an increasing number of companies have customer bases all over the world; despite improvements in global communication systems. The problem is that business travel is renowned for causing stress and fatigue. Business travel tips are useful to regular travelers by ensuring certain routines are carried out every time they travel to reduce the possibility of wasted trips.

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. The easiest way to ensure this situation does not affect you is by placing important business documents in your hand luggage.

This means that even if your main luggage is lost your trip does not have to be wasted; your meeting can still take place despite any inconvenience that has been caused. Of course when you are packing your main suitcase for the journey, it will be much simpler for you if you only include items that are essential and is an important business travel tip to remember.

To keep this simple just work out how many days you will be at your destination and pack accordingly, remembering to pack a few items of casual wear plus just enough pieces of footwear to last; this would be one pair for work and another pair for play. With the clothing taken care of the only items left to pack are your toilet bag plus any additional documentation that would be useful but not necessary for the meeting.

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. Then to reduce the chance of needing clothing laundered if something is spilt, a simple trick is to pack dark clothes which can absorb liquids without much sign and creases are not so apparent.

If you are delayed for any reason then knowing you can freshen up prior to the meeting without the need for a shower can be a lifesaver, this is where those travel wipes come in very useful. Remember before you leave to charge up your cell phone and other electronic devices; look into buying some form of mobile or wireless internet access package so that you can work on the move.

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. Just plan ahead for your business travel using this guide and you will be in a position where whatever happens it will not affect your trip and once you have done this often enough it will all become second nature to you.

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.

17 Meadfoot Grange, Torquay

Saturday, July 19th, 2008

Summary2 bedrooms (1 en-suite), sleeps 4/5.Well appointed throughout.Designated parking space.Communal grounds and gardens.Central location.No. 17 Meadfoot Grange is a two bedroomed top floor apartment in a beautifully converted Victorian villa set in peaceful grounds, only a few minutes? walk from the centre of Torquay. It is approached by a tree lined private drive to a reserved parking area. The grounds are available for use by guests. Living InformationSpacious double aspect lounge is furnished to a high standard. 2 x 2 seater cream leather sofas. Occasional furniture and a dried plant arrangement in the fireplace. Entertainment consists of a T.V., DVD player and video player. Kitchen InformationKitchen Integrated appliances with a washer/dryer, fridge, freezer, built-in stainless steel microwave, oven with grill and 4 gas hobs, kettle, toaster, coffee machine and chrome utensils. Dining A table with 4 matching cream chairscan be found in part of the living room. Sleeping InformationMaster Bedroom Double bed. A bedside cabinet. Built in wardrobes and storage space Portable TV. En-suite bathroom. Bedroom Two Double bed with fitted units over and to the side. Bedside cabinet, dressing table and chair and a connecting door through to the main bathroom. Bathroom InformationMain Bathroom White suite, comprising a bath with telephone shower taps, wash basin and towel stand. En-suite Bathroom Shower room consists of a corner shower unit, w.c. and wash basin. Outside InformationSet in peaceful grounds. Use of communal gardens. No. 17 is accessed by a communal entrance door and one flight of stairs up. An entryphone system. Designated parking space. No. 17 Meadfoot Grange is a two bedroomed top floor apartment in a beautifully converted Victorian villa set in peaceful grounds

Caribbean Cruises

Saturday, July 19th, 2008

If you have never tried a Caribbean cruise as a vacation then it is time you tried; this could be a vacation of a lifetime because it will be one you never forget. It should be on everyone’s list of vacations with tropical Caribbean islands, clear, clean beaches and of course a fun filled time on board the cruise liner. Whilst short breaks are available, perhaps over a weekend period, the vast majority of passengers sail for seven days and sometimes in excess of fourteen but depends on how much you are willing to spend.

The great thing about cruising is that these ships have immense experience in catering for just about all tastes so whether you just want to relax on the deck or want a full itinerary of events, they will be able to supply exactly what you want. Don’t think for one moment that there will not be enough to occupy you as cruise liners are the equivalent of floating vacation resorts that have a different view every day.

Before making the trip, it is wise to find out more, so go to your nearest travel agent to find the right package, but you can also find comments and reviews online. Don’t forget that there are a large number of Caribbean islands so cruise liners have arranged packages which reflect certain island themes as they cannot visit every island in such a short space of time.

Disco loving people that don’t like to sleep will enjoy those cruise vacations that arrange activity filled days and non-stop party evenings. Whilst your travel agent can give more details, so can the Caribbean cruise liner website and information on the types of packages should be more in depth.

Of course you will need to take all the usual changes of clothing you have for a vacation but ships have many more evening functions which require a little more thought. Women may want to take two or three evening dresses and men will need a tuxedo, they will probably get to wear it for a number of evenings.

Even if you intend to bring along your children on a family cruise vacation, there are plenty of programs to occupy them and they will not have a dull moment. In actual fact there is specially trained staff to take care of children that can provide entertainment activities throughout the entire day and during the voyage.

For those of you that would prefer a child free vacation, that too is available so you can cruise around the Caribbean islands without having to worry about children. There is no end to what you can actually request on your cruise liner vacation so if you have just got married or are celebrating your fiftieth wedding anniversary, something special can be arranged.

The whole idea of a Caribbean cruise vacation is that you enjoy yourself and just let go for however long you are on board because it may be some time before you go again!

1 Elm Cottage, Kingswear

Saturday, July 19th, 2008

2 bedrooms, sleeps 4. Newly furnished throughout.Views of the River Dart. Parking space in the marina car park.Pets allowed.Kingswear is situated on the banks of the River Dart across from the picturesque town of Dartmouth. Foot and car ferries cross the river frequently ensuring easy access to the many shops, restaurants and river cruises through the beautiful Devon countryside. You can also catch a boat to Torquay and Brixham, taking in the spectacular coastline. Living InformationCompletely renovated and designed to a modern high standard throughout. The living area enjoys large windows with views across the River Dart and Dartmouth. 1x leather sofabed and 2x matching leather reclining armchairs. Entertainment is provided by a TV with digital Freeview channels and a DVD/video player. Kitchen InformationKitchen A large spacious area with fully fitted integrated appliances comprising an electric oven with halogen hob, fridge, microwave, washing machine and dryer. Dining The dining area features a table with four matching chairs. There are an additional two chairs for larger groups. Sleeping InformationMaster Bedroom This features a double bed, separate dressing area, dressing table with chair and double wardrobe. From the dressing area a door leads onto a second small patio area with steps down to the marina car park. Bedroom Two This room has 2x single beds, wardrobe and drawer space. Bathroom InformationMain Bathroom The family bathroom consists of a white suite with a bath, electric shower, w.c. and washbasin. Cloakroom There is a separate cloakroom with a w.c. and wash basin. Outside InformationThe property is accessed via 25 steps down from the main road. Patio area at the front with seating. A car parking space is provided for guests in the marina car park which is below the property. 1 Elm Cottage is a two bedroom apartment located in the lovely village of Kingswear, overlooking Dartmouth.

Cheap Hire Cars

Friday, July 18th, 2008

Perhaps it is time to consider the benefits of budget car rental as an option when you are away; taxis can be an expensive proposition when you are on vacation or business if you intend to use them every day. The one thing you don’t want though is to be lumbered with a car that sounds like your lawnmower. Always be prepared, that is my motto, you do not have to drive a car that should have been scrapped just because you want to save a few dollars on the rental. Now that I have you concerned, I am going to give you a few points to look for when arranging a rental car.

The first easy option is to be in control of what you spend by finding a budget car rental company online that lets you set your own financial limit. Some of these sites are just comparison sites but well worth your time as they have done all the hard work for you. When you look, pay attention to the fly-drive packages as they will often discount car rentals although the airlines are not so accommodating. Unfortunately, airlines although convenient aren’t really the more economic way to go, their car rental prices are hardly budget, and tend to be higher than those of outside firms.

Budget car rental is now a growing area of online car rental so do not let the low prices put you off. Often the discounts you are offered are only available to online customers. Shopping around on the internet can be fun and save you money as there is almost always a special offer available with one car Rental Company or another. Plus, and this is the good bit; all this can be done from your home.

Another thing to ask is whether your credit card company has negotiated special discounts with the budget car rental company you are going to use. If you are a member of the military or government, you may be eligible for discounts negotiated with a number of rental companies on your behalf.

Before you drive the rental car away, carry out a thorough check for damage. These cars often take a few knocks so if there is any damage; make sure the renter is aware of them. Not only the outside but also check the inside and make sure all the controls etc. work as the last thing you want is a hefty repair bill when you return the car.

One other thing to remember is to check your vehicle insurance policy as you will more than likely find that it provides rental car insurance cover so that’s another saving. Rental car insurance doesn’t cost much, but if you already have one why buy another; irrespective of the situation, don’t think that it isn’t an important aspect either because insurance is still required by law.

Remember that car insurance is always required when you rent a car.

8 Belvedere Court, Paignton

Thursday, July 17th, 2008

2nd floor apartment with 1 bedroom, sleeps 2/4. Balconette with stunning bay views.Lift to all floors.Designated parking space.Open plan living and dining area.Belvedere Court offers fantastic views across the bay from Torquay to Brixham, as well as out to sea with Preston Sands beach is directly opposite the apartments. The centre of Paignton is a leisurely 10 minute stroll along the sea front. The apartment has been prepared to a 5 star Quality in Tourism standard. The apartment only received a 4 star rating due to the bathroom only containing a shower and not a bath, an essential requirement for a 5 star rating. No. 8 is a second floor apartment with a balconette, lift and allocated parking. Living InformationThe living area overlooks Preston Beach and Torbay giving fantastic sea views. Decorated to a very high standard. A two seater sofabed and an armchair. Modern occasional furniture throughout. Patio doors leading to a balcony area. Entertainment is provided by a TV, DVD/Video player with a selection of DVD’s available and CD/radio player. Kitchen InformationKitchen The well-appointed kitchen is lit by spotlights and features a dishwasher, washer/dryer, fridge, freezer, oven with grill, ceramic hobs with hood over, kettle, toaster and chrome utensils. Dining The dining area includes a dining table and four chairs. Sleeping InformationMaster Bedroom Double bed with matching 2 drawer bedside cabinet, 6 drawer unit and built in wardrobe. There is a window and single patio door, again featuring panoramic sea views. Bathroom InformationThe fully tiled bathroom contains a shower cubicle, w.c. and wash basin with mirror, light and shaver point and heated towel rail. Outside InformationNo. 8 is situated on the 2nd floor which is accessible by stairs or a lift. Designated parking space. Stunning sea views from the balcony. A 10 minute walk along the seafront to the centre. 8 Belvedere Court is a second floor apartment on Preston seafront within 100 yards of the sandy beach. The modern apartment also features panoramic sea views and an allocated parking space.

Visit Orlando

Thursday, July 17th, 2008

Orlando vacations are notoriously hectic especially with all the attractions the kids want to visit, but there is so much more to enjoy in this busy city. Orlando also has markets, shows, art galleries, exhibitions, beautiful lakes and parks, all easily available for the visitor who wants something a little different. Everything a visitor could possibly want is here and the reason why people return year after year.

As one of the most tourist centered cities in the world, Orlando a great deal to offer including large shopping malls, restaurants of every type, night clubs, bars and many specialist shops. More than 35-million people each year come to enjoy a vacation in Orlando at the many attractions and events that make it a great place to visit.

Although Zoos have taken a bit of criticism in recent years, their value to education and the preservation of species cannot be dismissed and the Central Florida Zoo in Sanford is one of these. Even though it is privately owned, it is run by a charitable group with the intention of providing classes for children and protecting species that are only found in Florida and other world wide exotic animals.

Back in 1942, the Morse Museum of American Art in Winter Park started exhibiting the world’s most extensive collection of the works of Louis Comfort 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. Orlando vacations offer evening entertainment that’s no less interesting with family venues such Pirates Adventure, Medieval Feast to more adult themes such as Disney’s Downtown Pleasure Island open until the early hours.

The Orlando Science Center is another of the major attractions and its four-story center is the biggest of its kind in the Southeast; offering 10 exhibit halls that allow visitors everything from the Florida swamplands to the dry plains of Mars. The International Trolley and Train Museum has fourteen trains running simultaneously in mountains, wilderness and urban areas; including three waterfalls that use 12,000 gallons of water per hour.

On International Drive there is the Mercado Center which is the home to the wonderfully moving, sad and at times eerie Titanic exhibition which actually displays a number of original items from the great ship. 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.

Of course how could anyone possibly visit Orlando without a visit to at least one theme park; and for those of you who are unsure Disney has four; not including the water parks; Universal has its own versions including Seaworld. 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.

Higher Coombe, West Devon

Wednesday, July 16th, 2008

2 bedrooms, sleeps 4/6.10 acres of land to explore with a variety of wildlife including deer.Fantastic location on the South West’s largest lake.A twitcher’s paradise with a hide on the lake for watching the waterfowl.Luxury features throughout including a grand piano.This must be the ultimate location to relax, unwind and recharge your batteries! This most idyllic of settings lies on the edge of Dartmoor between Okehampton and Launceston, with fabulous views over Roadford Lake. With 730 acres of water, Roadford Lake is the largest inland water reserve in the South West. Set in picturesque surroundings, it’s an ideal venue for brown trout fishing (fee payable), watersports, birdwatching, walking, cycling and horseriding or, of course, just relaxing! Higher Coombe is set in 10 acres of land for you to explore - home to a wide range of wildlife including deer, badgers and waterfowl on the lake, which can be viewed from the hide which was opened by Bill Oddie. The property adjoins the owner?s property and shares the 10 acres of garden. However, the owner?s conservatory and seating area are at the opposite end of the building and not visible from the garden area outside Higher Combe, making this a private getaway. Living InformationThe spacious living room has a large, comfortable sofa with two matching armchairs, a coffee table and a feature fireplace. There is a fabulous grand piano and also an audiophile standard Linn stereo system in a wooden cabinet. Entertainment is provided by a wall mounted 42? Panasonic Viera Plasma TV with Freeview, a DVD player and suround sound system. French doors open into the large conservatory with views over the lake and the Devon countryside. Kitchen InformationKitchen Innovative integrated ?kitchen in a cupboard? which offers an electric hob, integrated microwave/oven and fridge. A kettle, coffee machine and toaster is provided along with a full range of cutlery and utensils. A laundry service is also available. The owners are able to provide a delicious Devon breakfast if required (extra charge payable locally). Dining A dining table and five chairs are provided in the living area to provide ample seating. Sleeping InformationMaster Bedroom Stunning views over Roadford Lake and the surrounding countryside. Featuring a 6 foot kingsize bed. Two bedside cabinets with lamps are provided, with a chest of drawers and plenty of hanging space for your clothes. Double bed settee, to accommodate two extra guests. Entertainment is provided by a wall mounted LCD television. Bedroom Two The downstairs bedroom has double doors opening out onto a patio which offers superb views down to the lake. There is a double bed, with a bedside table and lamp. A cupboard is provided for storage. Bathroom InformationThe bathroom is accessed through the master bedroom. It features a bath with shower above, sink, w.c. and heated towel rail. Outside Information10 acres of land to explore. Lake and countryside views. Car parking. Higher Coombe is set in 10 acres of land for you to explore - home to a wide range of wildlife including deer, badgers and waterfowl.