Monday, 25 May 2015
Top 15 Things to Do in Dubai
Top 12 Beach Towels All Wrapped Up
Sunday, 24 May 2015
11 Ways to Fill the Football Void this Summer
Saturday, 23 May 2015
Heard It On The Grapevine: 10 Best English Vineyards
Friday, 22 May 2015
Eurovision Favourites: Potential Eurovision Hosts Countries for 2016
Wednesday, 20 May 2015
I Heart All Inclusive – Travel Blog Competition
Love all-inclusive holidays? We want to hear about it. Enter our blogging competition for your chance to win an iPad Mini…
Have you had an amazing all-inclusive holiday experience you want to shout about? We’re looking for bloggers who can bring the story of all-inclusive holidays to life. Be it funny, beyond expectation or simply the best – we can’t wait to hear your first-hand experiences.
Who can enter?
Any brilliant travel bloggers who enjoy all-inclusive holidays and can showcase the benefits to their readers.
What do I need to do?
Write a post about why you love all-inclusive holidays with the title: ‘You’re All-Included’ – First Choice Blogger Competition’ and set it live on your own blog. Feel free to get creative with the direction of the post, but make sure that it’s clear you’re taking part in First Choice blogger competition. Once your post is live, email us a link to blogcompetitions@firstchoice.co.uk with the subject line ‘You’re all included.’
Don’t forget to join the conversation on Twitter #IHeartAllinclusive
The prize
We’ll pick five of our favourite posts from all the entries and each winner will receive an iPad Mini for use on their travels. The lucky five will also feature on the First Choice blog and be able to share their posts with the wider travel audience.
What’s the deadline?
The competition closes at midnight on the 5th of June 2015. Five winners will be chosen by a panel of First Choice judges.
The winners will be announced on the 10th of June 2015 and contacted by email. Standard First Choice competition terms and conditions apply.
Show <<< TERMS AND CONDITIONS APPLY
Please read these Terms and Conditions carefully before entering the competition. By entering you indicate that you accept these terms and conditions and you agree to be bound by them.
1. Promoter’s Details: First Choice is a trading name of TUI UK Limited (the “Promoter”), a member of the TUI AG group of companies, registered in England and Wales under number 2830117 and whose registered office is at TUI Travel House, Crawley Business Quarter, Fleming Way, Crawley, West Sussex, RH10 9QL.
2. Eligibility: This competition is open to anyone resident in the UK or the Channel Islands, who is eighteen (18) years of age or older. Employees and immediate family (defined as parents, children, siblings, spouse and life partners) of the Promoter or its affiliates, subsidiaries, advertising or promotion agencies are not eligible to enter this competition.
3. How to Enter: Internet access required to participate. To enter you must email blogcompetitions@firstchoice.co.uk, including your name, address and telephone number in the body of the email and a link to the article with the title ‘You’re All-Included’ from your own blog. You must include the words ‘You’re All-Included’ in the email subject line. No entries from agents or third parties or entries automatically generated by computer will be accepted. Incomplete or corrupted entries will not be accepted. Entries will only be accepted if they comply with all entry instructions. No purchase necessary.
4. Use of Data: All details provided by you will be held by the Promoter and used in accordance with these terms and conditions and the Promoter’s Privacy Policy available at http://www.firstchoice.co.uk/our-policies/privacy-policy/. By entering this competition you consent to the Promoter contacting you for advertising and marketing purposes.
5. Dates: The competition closes on Friday 5th June 2015. All entries must be received by 11.59pm on Friday 5th June 2015.
6. Receipt of Entries: The Promoter cannot be held responsible for network, computer or software failures of any kind, which may restrict or delay the sending or receipt of your entry. The Promoter is not responsible for entries not received and/or any lost entries.
7. Prize(s): There will be 5 winners. Each winner will win one iPad mini™.
8. Selection of winners: The winners will be the 5 entries judged to be the best articles of all entries received.
9. Notification: The winners will be notified by email after Wednesday 10th June 2015 with instructions on how to claim their prize. If a winner cannot be contacted or is unable to accept their prize within 14 days of this date, the Promoter reserves the right to choose another winner from eligible entries received. Winners will also be announced on the First Choice Twitter account.
10. Winners’ details: Details of the winners’ names and countries of residence will be obtainable after the Wednesday 10th June 2015 by emailing blogcompetitions@firstchoice.co.uk. The winners may be required to participate in post-competition publicity.
11. General: The Promoter reserves the right to amend the competition in exceptional circumstances. All entrants agree to abide by these terms and conditions and the Promoter reserves the right to exclude entrants for any breach of these terms and conditions. The Promoter’s decision is final and no correspondence will be entered in to.
Want some inspiration for your entry? Click here to read the First Choice blog.
7 Of The Grumpiest TripAdvisor Reviews Of Famous Landmarks
Always wanted to see the Pyramids, the Grand Canyon or the Eiffel Tower? Well, you might as well take your bucket list out and start deleting now. Here’s a look at some of the 7 not-so Wonders of the World, according to these TripAdvisor reviewers…
Brandenburg Gate, Germany
A simple name mix-up led to this disgruntled review. Imagine rocking up expecting to snap photos of a gate and being met with an 18th-century ‘triumphal arch’. Oh, the disappointment…
Pyramids of Giza, Egypt
They’re the oldest of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, and the only one that’s still largely intact. Plus, the Great Pyramid itself was the world’s tallest manmade structure for going-on 4,000 years. But, most tourists probably haven’t heard the best part – it’s right next to a McDonalds.
Grand Canyon, USA
At 277 miles long, 18 miles wide and 1,800 metres deep, it’s one really ‘big hole’. Look around a bit and you’ll find waterfalls, the Colorado River, wildlife and 800-year-old Indian ruins. But, we’re sure golf would be more interesting…
Eiffel Tower, France
Blackpool, Paris – we’re always getting these two confused. It’s true, there are certain similarities between the towers. The French original did inspire the Blackpool landmark, but, it’s not free-standing and falls well short of the Eiffel Tower’s 324 metres, with a height of just 158 metres.
Chichen Itza, Mexico
It was once the urban centre of the Mayan empire, from A.D. 750 to 1200 – or was it? According to this TripAdvisor reviewer, the pre-Columbian archaeological site is actually a ‘new build’. It was made one of the New 7 Wonders of the World in 2007 – bet they’re kicking themselves now.
Colosseum, Italy
Big Hollywood producers are to blame here. If they didn’t make all those films, then surely no one would want to visit Rome’s 1,945-year-old Colosseum… right? All we can say is, let’s hope this reviewer never ends up at Stonehenge, as they’d be even more disappointed with that ‘pile of rocks’.
Big Ben, UK
It’s an icon of British democracy and one of the most photographed landmarks in the world. Oh okay, we suppose it is just a ‘big clock’ to some. What this reviewer might not know is that Big Ben technically refers to the 13-tonne Great Bell of the clock tower.
Which of these landmarks have you visited?
Off the Beaten Track in Paris
Dubai in Three Days
Tuesday, 19 May 2015
Behind The Scenes Of Alesha Dixon’s New Music Video
Join us behind the scenes of Alesha Dixon’s latest music video, The Way We Are, and take an exclusive look at the final edit – chosen by you…
You’ve probably heard all about us teaming up with our Summer of Music headliner, Alesha Dixon, to shoot the world’s first fan-curated music video, but if you’ve been living under a rock for the last month, let us take a quick moment to fill you in. We flew the pop star extraordinaire out to sunny Cyprus, and then got to work, capturing her incredible music video, complete with three different – but equally awesome – endings. You then voted in your thousands to pick your favourite finale.
But before we reveal the winning ending, we’ve got another great video for you. Here’s what happened when we caught up with Alesha behind the scenes…
Want to see the finished vid for The Way We Are before everyone else? Head over to the Summer of Music site for an exclusive sneak peek.
What’s Great About Ibiza?
12 New Years resolutions suggested by my dog…
Did you know that 41% of folks make New Years resolutions each year? And the month of January is just full of determined individuals who are striving towards their goals! Then February happens. Less than half of those folks keep their resolutions for six months and only a small percentage manage a whole year.
So why make them? Well, it certainly doesn’t hurt to try and better yourself! Here are some great ideas suggested by my dog, Ralph, who insists that resolutions don’t have to be difficult!
Yep, Ralph has a point. Why make life so difficult?
Here are the top ten most common New Years resolutions and some humor to go along with them. Since I write two blogs, it seems I have written about all of them! And if you are truly serious about sticking with your resolutions this year, be sure to check out my post on 10 Easy Steps to Work Towards Your Goals!
1. Lose Weight
Every now and then I wake up in the middle of the night after falling asleep in front of the television and am confronted with the latest infomercial. Something about being freshly wakened makes me more susceptible to these middle of the night ads. See what happens when I respond to a weight loss ad in For all us “Skinny Wannabees”.
2. Volunteer to Help Others
Random acts of kindness can be a rarity. You can change your world with one simple act of kindness! I put together 60 great ways to be kind. Make it a great day for someone! Check out: World Kindness Day- 60 great ways to be kind!
3. Spend More Time with Family
Is this one of your goals this year? How about a humorous look at the 15 things we learned at our Family Reunion!
4. Travel
Take a trip to the mountains! Here is a look at the Top Ten Ski Resorts for 2014 according to Forbes!
5. Get a Better Job
Ever thought about earning money by blogging? Here are a few tips from this crazy-eyed craft blogger that might help you out!
6. Save Money
Reality television over the past few years has taken a look at saving money coupon shopping. The show, “Extreme Couponing“, is just one of the reality shows out there following a “coupon lady” from store to store. But what happens when the reality of real life competes with reality tv? 14 Thoughts on the Reality of Coupon Shopping
7. Get Fit
Is one of your new years resolutions getting more exercise? Mine definitely is. Currently, I work two full time jobs. I’m an executive assistant by day and a blogger by night. Both jobs entail me sitting on my butt. Due to that fact, I have developed a severe case of “blogger butt”. The solution? Get off my butt and walk! Here is a fun idea to create a Jar ‘O Exercise!
8. Eat Healthy Food
Originally sponsored by the United Fresh Fruits and Vegetables Association, Eat Your Vegetable Day is meant to bring awareness to healthy food options; particularly vegetables. Children are notoriously picky eaters, and I have put together 7 veggie lunch ideas that kids will love!
9. Manage Stress
A great way to manage stress is a relaxing trip to the spa. Today we are looking at some great ways to pamper ourselves, and the nice folks at Etsy do not disappoint! Come see what I found! Great Spa Gifts from Etsy!
10. Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle
Have you been collecting recycled toilet paper tubes to use for a cool winter project? No? Well, start collecting now. The Sitcom offers four great DIY crafts and instructions for creating amazing things out of those formerly unappreciated pieces of tubular cardboard.
So make your resolutions and then go for it! Happy New Year to all my awesome readers!
Monday, 18 May 2015
The View From Here
Each time they head off on their travels, our globetrotting bloggers share one photo that sums up their trip. After all, they say a picture is worth a thousand words…
Today…a mountain road winds below a high cloudy peak in the Atlas Mountains.
Saturday, 16 May 2015
What’s Great About Paphos
Friday, 15 May 2015
10 Unusual Places to Find a McDonalds Worldwide
Thursday, 14 May 2015
Spotlight On… Aldemar Hotels
You’ve got the time booked off and bikinis bought. Still deciding where to go? Problem solved – here’s why you should head to an Aldemar Hotel for some Greek sun…
Aldemar Amilia Mare
Where?
First things first, it’s on a private beach in Kalithea. Plus, in 2 minutes you can be at a bar with a cocktail in hand. If you want to party ‘til the early hours, Rhodes Town is only 10 minutes’ drive away.
What can you do?
This hotel was made for water babies – a huge beachfront lagoon, kids’ pools, whirlpool baths and an 80-metre-long waterslide. Once you’re out of the water, there’s still loads to try. Practise your putt on the mini golf course, test your serve on the tennis court, or get stuck into a game of giant chess.
What are the rooms like?
Did we mention this place has just had a major revamp? It means rooms come fresh and extra modern, with an on-trend blue theme. They’ve all got a view, so take your pick – the turquoise-blue waves or the landscaped gardens?
Where can you eat?
You’ll be tucking into fresh pasta one night and tasty moussaka the next. There are 4 restaurants, dishing out Italian, Greek, Chinese and French food. If you fancy a romantic meal, then stroll down to the Greek taverna on the beach. The main buffet restaurant also has a separate kids’ section with staff to help give you an extra set of hands.
What’s the entertainment like?
Want a lively evening in? The hotel’s quizzes and live shows have it covered. Looking to relax? Well, there’s also a huge TV showing films every night.
Aldemar Knossos Royal
Where?
It’s perched right on a sandy beach, but the buzzing harbour of Hersonissos is only 5 minutes’ drive away.
What can you do?
The activity scene goes big here. You’ve got stuff like table tennis, cooking lessons, dance competitions and squash. You can even sign up for some scuba diving down on the beach. It’s all on your doorstep, not to mention the 4 pools, including a saltwater number and one with a waterslide.
What are the rooms like?
It’s all Minoan on the outside and modern on the inside. Rooms have just been refurbished, so they’re light and bright. You can also book VIP seafront rooms, where you’ll get your own set of outdoor pools to share.
Where can you eat?
Crack out your fancy gear, because you’ll be dining on lobster – there’s a special night each week. Throw in an American breakfast, gourmet dinners and fresh seafood on the beach – and that’s just a few of your options. The buffet restaurant pulls out all the stops on themed evenings, like sushi and Italian cooking.
What’s the entertainment like?
Theme nights are a real hit here. It all kicks off at mealtimes and carries on to the live shows after-dark. Expect singing, dancing, cabaret and fire.
Which one would you pick?
Things You Didn’t Know About Marmaris
Wednesday, 13 May 2015
The 10 Weirdest Hotels In The World
Ever fancied sleeping underwater? On a bed made entirely of salt? Or, in a coffin? (Ok, probably not). It’s not as impossible as it sounds. Here are some of the world’s more unusual hotels…
Costa Verde, Costa Rica
This one’s for those who love flying so much they don’t want to get off the plane. You won’t have to here. This suite at the Costa Verde resort is made out of a salvaged Boeing 727. It was taken to Costa Rica’s Manual Antonio National Park from San Jose airport – and given a bit of a revamp. Inside, it’s got 2 teak-panelled bedrooms, with a viewing deck above the wing.
Hobbit Motel, New Zealand
If you’ve already ticked Hobbiton off your list, then sleeping in a hobbit hole is naturally next. The motel has a Shire-like grass roof and round windows, but luckily the ceilings have been adjusted for guests a little taller than hobbits.
Magic Mountain, Chile
With a drawbridge, luxury interiors and a rooftop waterfall, this place looks like something out of a fairytale. The location’s dreamy, too – it’s in a private nature reserve in Chile. Guests can spot toucans and pumas from the wooden hot tubs, or watch as adrenaline junkies pass by on the world’s longest zip line.
Palacio de Sal, Bolivia
The great salt flats of Salar de Uyuni might be on your sightseeing bucket list, but you can take it one step further by staying here. The walls, floors, ceilings and furniture are all made out of the stuff – delivered from the tourist hotspot. It probably goes without saying, but no licking the walls.
Dog Bark Park Inn, USA
Calling all dog lovers. Owners Dennis and Frances went barking mad designing this hotel. It’s shaped like a huge dog with rooms sleeping 4. There’s a bath, air-con and board games, but no mod-cons. You can sleep in Sweet Willy’s stomach or his muzzle.
IceHotel, Sweden
The team at this place get the award for the most hardworking hoteliers. Due to its chilly -5 degrees Celsius temp, it has to be rebuilt every winter. There are 65 rooms and beds made of ice, plus, there’s a sauna for warming up.
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Propeller Island City Lodge, Germany
Berlin’s definitely got an edgy side, and this hotel takes it even further. Each of the 27 rooms is unique – quite literally. One is completely made of mirrors, another is a prison cell and there’s even a crypt room where you sleep in a coffin. Count us out.
Crane Hotel, Netherlands
It’s not exactly the kind of place you’d expect to find a hotel – in the docks of a city most known for its fishing and shipping. But, this place really gives meaning to the term ‘industrial chic’. You’ll find your room in the converted dock of a crane, complete with an outdoor decking area. Guests are free to get behind the lever, as everything’s still in working order. Plus, brekkie comes via an internal lift.
Das Park Hotel, Austria
Made from repurposed drain pipes, this hotel is actually practical as well as weird. They’ve been given a lick of paint, and come soundproofed and temperature-controlled – keeping cool in summer and warm in winter. There’s only space for a bed and light, though, as the rooms are just two square metres in size.
The Manta Resort, Zanzibar
You’ll be sleeping with the fishes here – no, really. The Underwater Room at Zanzibar’s exclusive Manta Resort has 3 levels, and one of them is 4 metres deep. At night, the underwater spotlights attract the reef’s residents for your viewing pleasure – think octopus, bat fish and Spanish dancer fish. Another bonus – the deck is perfect for sunbathing.