Brighton vacations are popular with not only people in the United Kingdom but those visitors from around the world also. Located on England’s south coast, Brighton is one of the UK’s largest seaside resorts.

It was originally called Brighthelmston and dates back to well before the Domesday Book of 1086. However, its importance as a health resort only really happened in the 1700’s. It became even more popular with young and old alike looking to spend a day down by the coast with the first rail link in 1841. Indeed, in the 18th and 19th centuries, Brighton was home to much of the era’s aristocracy.

Actually, if you go further back in time during the 16th Century Brighton was only a tiny fishing village and only had 1,500 inhabitants in small cottages. There are still examples of these buildings to be found in The Lanes. But things drastically began to change in the 17th Century because Dr Richard Russell from the nearby town of Lewes began to talk about the health benefits of using seawater for treating glandular diseases.

After 1750 the town started to fill with visitors wishing to try out the water to see if it really could help them. The town also became popular once members of the UK’s Royal Family decided to try the waters and also bathe in the sea.

Each year now the town has more than 8 million visitors to it and they enjoy everything that this coastal town has to offer. Accommodation in the town span the complete range from total luxury to medium and lower priced hotels. There are also lots of fantastic guesthouses and bed and breakfast accommodation which offer you a much more friendly and personal touch.

Once in Brighton there is much for one to do and see from wandering the local streets. Or a stroll along the historic promenade and you will come to the Palace Pier and the Royal Pavilion both of which normally end up on your tourist agenda. Definitely, the you should include the Royal Pavilion on your itinerary.

Known as a folly this building was built for the Prince of Wales who was later crowned George IV. He was renowned for his eccentricity and flamboyany ways but the building he created is a poignant reminder of a bygone era even though the town has long since been host to many tourists.

Along with the more traditional attractions, you would expect to find in a seaside resort in the UK, Brighton is also host to a myriad of cultural events each year as well. Of course, you’ll still find the amusement arcades along with souvenir shops but delve deeper and you are sure to find something that really makes people enjoy coming to this town.

When it comes to Brighton vacations one will be amazed at just how much there is to do and see in this town.

You can find a list of Brighton hotels here.

The Peak district National Park attracts visitors from around the globe some of whom come to get out in the wilds and are happy to stay in one of the Peak district b&bs whilst other come to the area to visit many of the town and villages around the area many of which are home to Peak district luxury hotels.

One of the towns in the area is Bakewell in Derbyshire and it is right in the heart of the Peak District, is a small and extremely beautiful market town. The town is situated on the River Wye and from the historical point of view the five arched bridge which dates back to the 13th century is still open to traffic. Due to increase in traffic over the centuries it was widened in the 19th century.

There is a lot of history to Bakewell that a lot of people don’t know about, the town its self has even been mentioned in the Doomsday book as having two priests a church which signified importance all those centuries ago. The local grammar school was founded in 1637 by the marriage between Sir George Manners and Grace Pierrepont and the school is known as Lady Manners School.

The local church here most of which is still standing today, has roots dating back to 13th century and parts of the original Saxon and Norman stonework are still visible, although much restoration happened in the 1800’s. The church is quite squat and wide in design but is complimented by the octagonal tower with its spire.

There used to be in the centre of Bakewell the White Horse Inn, which has been replaced by The Rutland Arms Hotel, with some other various buildings being demolished in 1805, to form Rutland Square.

Centuries ago, these would of catered for coach travellers who passed through the town, and it has always been reputed for the connection to Jane Austin, who was reported to have stayed at this hotel, whilst writing Pride and Prejudice, and that Lambton in the book has been identified as Bakewell.

Another truly great invention happened by accident at the hotel, and that is the famous Bakewell pudding known throughout all of the UK. Folklore has it that the cook mixed up the ingredients and instructions resulting in the egg being poured over the jam instead of being mixed with the pastry, the result of which was naturally a pudding.

There are numerous shops in the town centre where these puddings can be purchased.

Bakewell in the peak district is at the southern end of the Pennines in Central England, there are thousands of people who visit this beautiful area every year, probably making it the second most popular National Park in England.

There are some really beautiful and interesting places to visit on Peak District holidays especially in and around Bakewell. The area has something for everyone, whether you want a hotel, or a guest house, there are plenty to choose from, who all offer good food and quality Bakewell holiday accommodation.

To fine out more about this delightfull region visit the Peak District tourism blog

This Travel Alert updates information for U.S. citizens on security situations in Mexico that may affect their activities while in that country.  This Travel Alert for Mexico expires on October 15, 2008.

Violence Along The U.S.-Mexico Border
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Violent criminal activity fueled by a war between criminal organizations struggling for control of the lucrative narcotics trade continues along the U.S.-Mexico border.  Attacks are aimed primarily at members of drug trafficking organizations, Mexican police forces, criminal justice officials, and journalists.  However, foreign visitors and residents, including Americans, have been among the victims of homicides and kidnappings in the border region.  In its effort to combat violence, the government of Mexico has deployed military troops in various parts of the country.  U.S. citizens are urged to cooperate with official checkpoints when traveling on Mexican highways.

Recent Mexican army and police force conflicts with heavily-armed narcotics cartels have escalated to levels equivalent to military small-unit combat and have included use of machine guns and fragmentation grenades.   Confrontations have taken place in numerous towns and cities in northern Mexico, including Tijuana in the Mexican state of Baja California, and Chihuahua City and Ciudad Juarez in the state of Chihuahua.  The situation in northern Mexico remains very fluid; the location and timing of future armed engagements there cannot be predicted.

Armed robberies and carjackings, apparently unconnected to the narcotics-related violence, have increased in Tijuana and Ciudad Juarez.  Dozens of U.S. citizens were kidnapped and/or murdered in Tijuana in 2007.  Public shootouts have occurred during daylight hours near shopping areas. 
 
Criminals are armed with a wide array of sophisticated weapons.  In some cases, assailants have worn full or partial police or military uniforms and have used vehicles that resemble police vehicles.

U.S. citizens are urged to be especially alert to safety and security concerns when visiting the border region. While Mexican citizens overwhelmingly are the victims of these crimes, this uncertain security situation poses risks for U.S. citizens as well.  Thousands of U.S. citizens cross the border safely each day, exercising common-sense precautions such as visiting only legitimate business and tourist areas of border towns during daylight hours.  It is strongly recommended that travelers avoid areas where prostitution and drug dealing occur.
Criminals have followed and harassed U.S. citizens traveling in their vehicles, particularly in border areas including Nuevo Laredo, Matamoros, and Tijuana.  There is no evidence, however, that U.S. citizens are targeted because of their nationality.
 
U.S. citizen victims of crime in Mexico are urged to contact the consular section of the nearest U.S. consulate or Embassy for advice and assistance.

Crime and Violence in Mexico
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U.S. citizens residing and traveling in Mexico should exercise caution when in unfamiliar areas and be aware of their surroundings at all times.  Violence by criminal elements affects many parts of the country, urban and rural, including border areas.  Though there is no evidence that U.S. citizens are specifically targeted, Mexican and foreign bystanders have been injured or killed in some violent attacks, demonstrating the heightened risk in public places.  In recent years, dozens of U.S. citizens have been kidnapped in Mexico and many cases remain unresolved.  Moreover, new cases of disappearances and kidnap-for-ransom continue to be reported.  No one can be considered immune from kidnapping on the basis of occupation, nationality, or other factors.  U.S. citizens who believe they are being followed should notify Mexican officials as soon as possible.  U.S. citizens should make every attempt to travel on main roads during daylight hours, particularly the toll (“cuota”) roads, which are generally more secure.  It is preferable for U.S. citizens to stay in well-known tourist destinations and tourist areas of the cities with more adequate security, and provide an itinerary to a friend or family member not traveling with them. U.S. citizens should avoid traveling alone as a means to better ensure their safety.  Refrain from displaying expensive-looking jewelry, large amounts of money, or other valuable items.

Demonstrations occur frequently throughout Mexico and usually are peaceful.  However, even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence unexpectedly.  Some deaths occurred during violent demonstrations, including an American citizen who died in the 2006 violence in Oaxaca.  During demonstrations or law enforcement operations, U.S. citizens are advised to remain in their homes or hotels, avoid large crowds, and avoid the downtown and surrounding areas.  Since the timing and routes of scheduled marches and demonstrations are always subject to change, U.S. citizens should monitor local media sources for new developments and exercise extreme caution while within the vicinity of protests.  The Mexican Constitution prohibits political activities by foreigners, and such actions may result in detention and/or deportation.  Therefore, U.S. citizens are advised to avoid participating in demonstrations or other activities that might be deemed political by Mexican authorities.

The town of Cheltenham lies to the east of Bristol and aouth of Birmingham and is close to the cities of Cirencester and Oxford. It is also close to the picturesque villages that can be found in the Cotswolds.

Then again, in Cheltenham Spa there are plenty of things for one to do and see whilst visiting this historic spa town.

1. Cheltenham Racecourse’s Hall of Fame – This looks at the history of racing and steeple chasing from it’s beginnings in 1819 through to the present day. You can look back through the winners of the Gold Cup, the major race which takes place each year at this course, but also about how the Irish became main players here as well. It also takes a look at the many trainers and riders who over the years have played a major part in the history of this course.

2. Gloucestershire Warwickshire Heritage Railway – Almost every summer weekend sees steam trains running on this line between Toddington, Winchcombe and Cheltenham. There are also extra trains at differnt times of the year and special events which both young and old alike can enjoy.

3. The Holst Museum – This is a terraced Victorian house which has had the kitchen lovingly renovated and in it you will be able to look at many items that are to do with the composer of the music suite “The Planets”. You can spend time exploring the composer’s youthful days and as he grew older and even see the piano on which he composed his music together with a collection of his musical scores.

4. Pittville Pump Room – This grand building is often used as the symbol of the town and is the jewel of its Regency architecture. It has a commanding view of the lawns and lakes of Pittville Park and is host to many displays and exhibitions throughout the year. If you’re brave enough you can taste the not-too-nice-tasting spa waters which originally brought fame to the town for their supposed ability to cure all sorts of diseases.

5. Sandford Park Open Air Pool – Here you will find one of the largest outdoor pools in the UK and is surrounded by landscaped gardens. Not only is there the main pool which measures 50 meters but also there is a children’s pool and a paddling pool All of these are heated to a temperature above 70 degrees. If you want to stay dry or relax after your swim, you can also play table tennis, basketball and volleyball on site.

6. St Mary’s Church – This is the oldest building in the town and was built during the middle part of the 11th Century. It displays the Royal Coat of Arms and to mark the visit in 1788 of King George III. Many people marvel at the rose window, dating back to the 14th century, a canopied piscine and the baptistery which has lierne vaulting. The church also is home to many memorials of Cheltenham’s most famous citizens.

When you stay in Cheltenham, make sure to check the Cheltenham hotels and guest houses listed here.

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By Jim Nettleton

There certainly is no denying that traveling these days is a lot more expensive than ever before and the need to find bargains when we vacation or travel on business is extreme. Many families during these times are severely curtailing vacation plans or eliminating them altogether. But it doesn’t have to be that way.

There are many outstanding travel bargains to be found if you just know where to look. Let’s examine a few ways to save money on travel. For more details and information on budget travel, visit my web site through the link in my resource box below.

Airlines

With the cost of jet fuel soaring, higher prices are in effect at all major airlines. In the midst of all this, you can still locate bargains on the web. Many online specials exist, especially if you’re willing to wait until your proposed departure date is near. Browse the airlines’ websites along with Travelocity and Expedia for special pricing. Sometimes the individual airlines will have specials that don’t appear on Travelocity or Expedia, so don’t forget to check them.

Accommodations

You might have to sacrifice a bit here in order to find bargain places to stay. Again, the web is your best friend in tracking down cheaper rates. Rather than reserving space at a pricey hotel, you might be better off staying at a cut-rate motel. After all, you’re on vacation and you’re only going to use the place to sleep. Seek out those that are not adjacent to major attractions, since their rates will be lower.

Cruise Deals

Aim to take that cruise vacation during early fall or the end of summer. You’ll find much better rates. A cruise can be one of the most economical vacations on the planet. The ship is your hotel and food is included. You couldn’t take a vacation as cheaply if you paid for these items separately. Just do a Google search for ‘cheap cruise deals’ and take a look at some of those travel bargains. At the time of this writing I found one, for example, that offers a 7 day Caribbean cruise for as low as $329 per person, or a Canadian adventure for as low as $249 per person. These are amazingly low prices for all-inclusive vacations.

Package Deals

There are many of these available at all times. Travel Agencies purchase in bulk from suppliers and sell to the public at reduced rates. Bear in mind, however, that the quality of package deals can vary widely, so make sure you shop around before finalizing a deal. Remember, too, that if you are planning to travel to a place at a particular date, or have your heart set on a certain destination, it is always advisable to book in advance to avoid any last minute hassles.

If you plan carefully, you can still take that vacation without breaking the bank. A final thing to keep in mind is that these days, it’s a buyer’s market. Vacation destinations need business, cruise lines need business and accommodation vendors, whether hotel or motel also need business. That puts you in the driver’s seat.

About the author:

Jim Nettleton is a radio and TV professional with wide-ranging interests including the world of travel. Visit his web site for more tips, details and information about traveling on a budget at http://www.jaynetinc.com/BudgetTravel

The town of Falmouth in Cornwall is found on the River Fal and can be found on the southern coast of Cornwall. The actual harbour in the town is the third deepest natural one in the world and it’s the deepest natural harbor in Western Europe. If you’re thinking about a vacation in Falmouth, there are lots of different things to see and do in the town itself and nearby.

The accommodation in Falmouth is many and varied. Quite a few of the Georgian townhouses located in it have been converted either into hotels or into guesthouses. Quite a lot of these establishments boast tremendous views of one of Falmouth’s 5 beaches. One of these beaches is located next to Pendennis Castle, then you have Castle Tunnel, Gyllyngvase, Swanpool and finally Maenporth.

As well as Falmouth’s beaches on which you can spend summer days soaking up the sun as this part of the UK gets more sunshine than many other parts. You can if you want learn more about this part of England’s maritime history through a visit to the National Maritime Museum. The building that the museum is housed in was designed by M J Long and has only been open since February 2003.

The town’s port is still in regular use as a cargo port where goods are brought onto the mainland. The port also features on the itinerary of a number of different cruise lines. In 2007, the port was expecting 64 cruise ships to actually stop in at Falmouth port as one of their ports of call. The port is still a vital part of the town and is responsible for much of the local economy.

That said, over the years because of its location and the surrounding area this town has been popular with film and television crews. The actor Will Hay stayed in the town as far back as 1935 whilst the comedy film “Windbag the Sailor” was being produced. Later, the town saw Sir John Mills star during the filming of Scott of the Antarctic. In addition, the town has been used as a backdrop for the Disney film Treasure Island that was made in 1950.

Certainly, if you are old enough or if you have seen these films you’ll still recognize plenty of places in the town as you stroll around that formed the backdrop to some of the scenes. Tourists from the world over still come to visit and the town has done it’s best to keep modern developments away and retain its original character.

For those who are looking for somewhere to go that offers peace and tranquillity then a vacation in Falmouth will be your ideal choice.

You can find a Falmouth hotel or guest house here.

The city of Gloucester is situated on the River Severn and is the 46th largest settlement in England. When you decide to visit Gloucester,

you’re sure to find plenty of
things to keep you occupied in the city and nearby.  You can take a short car drive from the city and you are soon in the Forest of Dean or on a clear day enjoying the views from the Malvern Hills. In the other direction you have the Cotswolds with its variety of quiet unspoilt villages, which you can visit. 

Although historically the city has been a port, the actual  dockyard area fell into disrepair and but have since been extensively renovated. Now you can spend time wandering around this beautiful open space or spend time doing a little bit of shopping. There are also some lovely bars where you can sit and enjoy some great drinks and food. One of the warehouses that are situated in this part of the city also houses the National Waterways Museum. If you’re interested in military history, then make sure to check the Soldiers of Gloucestershire Museum in Custom House. 

A visit to the city wouldn’t be complete without seeing Gloucester Cathedral. This building has been a place of worship for more than thirteen hundred years. If you take the time to expore inside, you’ll be able to see its detailed architectural features and its cloisters are considered to be among the most beautiful in England today. If you find thinking that, you recognize this building from somewhere you almost certainly do as it was used as a set for the Harry Potter films.

Another place that many people like to spend time in when visiting the city of Gloucester is its park. This is located very close to the heart of the city and was probably the first park to be developed. Along with plenty of space for children to play and you may decide to have a picnic on a lazy summer afternoon. There are many events which take place here during the summer months. A quick visit to the Park’s Information Office that is housed in a Tudor Cottage and will tell you exactly what is happening at the time of your visit.

Another place that you’ll almost certainly want to see when you v is Blackfriars. This Dominican Priory is the oldest one in England.  Although it hasn’t been a friary since 1538, the buildings were then bought by Thomas Bell. He had part of the monastery converted into a home and the rest of the property into a factory which made clothes locally. At certain times of the year English Heritage now offer guided tours around the property.

Check out this Gloucester hotel directory for your next visit.

Colchester is the biggest town in Essex. The town actually claims to be the oldest one in Britain and is definitely the oldest recorded Roman settlement in the country. Due to its long history, there are lots of attractions in Colchester, which you can explore when you visit the town. In this article, we look at just a few which may be worth considering visiting when you stay in Colchester.

1.  Balkerne Gate – This is the most complete Roman gateway you will find in Britain and it is thought to have been built in 55 AD. Years ago, the gate was part of the main route into the town but it’s gradually been turned into a triumphal arch. Then after this, the gateway was merged into the town’s walls before it was blocked up some four hundred years later in 465AD to help improve the town’s defence system. It was rediscovered about a hundred years ago and this is why it has remained in such good condition that you see today.

2.  Charter Market – This is believed to be the oldest recorded market in the UK and has been a regular feature of the town for over 800 years. The market was granted a Royal Charter in 1189 by King John and is where it gets its name from. Today markets are still held here on a Friday and a Saturday and there is a wider than normal variety of goods as the charter prevents more than one stall selling the same item. 

3.  Colchester Castle – This Norman castle is built on the foundations of what was the Roman Temple to Claudius. But, the Roman temple was smashed to pieces in 60 AD when Queen Boudica razed the town to the ground in order to get the Romans to leave. The actual stone that was used by the Normans to build the castle is in fact much of the materials used to build the Roman temple. 

This castle now has one of the oldest and largest of all castle keeps to be built in Europe and inside the walls of the castle there is much to do and see. The castle houses exhibitions, which span more than 2,000 years of British history and there are interactive displays to keep your youngsters busy. Whilst touring the castle you can learn more about Matthew Hopkins the Witch finder General who used the castle as a jail at the time of the main witch trials.

4.  Colchester Zoo – One of Europe’s finest zoos located a short drive from Colchester. Located in around sixty acres of English countryside the zoo is home to over two hundred different species for you to look at. Along with elephants in Elephant Kingdom, there are the chimpanzees in Chimp World to enjoy. Plus you will find other parts of the zoo just as enjoyable and enchanting. As with any zoo, you’ll almost certainly find yourself spending lots of time here.

Check out this list of Colchester accommodation for your next visit.

Arriving in Paris you will probably want to check into your Paris 5-star hotel first, but the city will draw you out into the streets in short order. Choosing a central hotel may be more expensive than somewhere at the end of the metro line, but being right in the midst of the famous landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre has a lot going for it. Whatever your budget think carefully about your budget Paris hotel’s location, it will make a big different to your holiday – especially if you are on a limited budget

Another must-see sight is the Champs Elysees or the Elysian Fields. It is considered as the most beautiful avenue in the whole world which started as a plain field but later on converted into a pathway lined with trees. It runs from the Concorde Square up to the equally famous Arc de Triomphe and became one of the attractions and features of Paris. It is one of the most famous streets in the whole world.

In the middle of some of Paris’s craziest traffic, the Arc de Triomphe is still a must-do attraction. It is a large arc which serves as a roundabout a meeting point of more than twelve avenues in the whole city of Paris. It stands as a commemoration of the great victories of Napoleon. The viewing platform at the top of the Arc has a great view: the 284 steps will make you work for lunch. It is one of the main landmarks of the city.

These landmarks are joined by other attractions that make Paris one of the top tourist destinations in the world. Most visitors will include Sainte Chapelle cathedral and Tuileries Gardens on their itinearary. Still, there are other landmarks that you can visit when you plan a vacation in Paris. These places will make your stay in Paris memorable and will make your sleep in your Paris lodgings as peaceful and as dreamy as ever.

Whilst visiting the peak district area, if you pass the sign for Ashbourne, turn the car around and go and visit this beautiful town. The place is one of the finest old market town’s around the area, though it must be said, there are still a lot of other beautiful places around the peak district.

If you are basing your Peak District holidays here, then there is a delightful array of comfortable Peak District holiday cottages for you to choose from , but many get booked well in advance so book early to get the best choice. Also as would be expected the area has a number of luxury hotels if you prefer the more pampered style of holiday.

The town, dating back to the Georgian period, was a highly fashionable and busy place for the wealthy all those centuries ago. Whilst walking around and looking at the buildings, which are truly magnificent, you can imagine, long ago, all the ladies walking around in all their beautiful finery.

With mellow town houses, and resplendent coaching inns, there is a truly unique atmosphere about this small town. Taking a stroll along the main street, you will come across historic alms houses and the 16th century old Grammar School. On a beautiful day, you can also take a walk along the Heritage Trail which takes you around the town.

Being a fair trade town means fair trade products are available in the restaurants, cafes, and shops, and there is still the local market which takes place on Thursdays and Saturdays throughout the year with tradition going as far back to 1257.

Accommodation is widely available in and around Ashbourne. In the central area of Ashbourne, there is the Beresford Arms Hotel, which offers accommodation and breakfasts. It all depends on the individual couple, or families as to what type of accommodation they require.

Outside of the town, there are farms to stay at, or privately run guest houses; some dating back to the 19th century. What ever the choice, there will always be something to suit everyone, whilst exploring this lovely town and the area around.

It must be remembered while visiting or holidaying in or around Ashbourne, right on the door step is the beautiful Peak District which offers something for everyone. For the avid walker, there are some truly amazing and beautiful walkways.

It is always good to have good rambling boots, which are also great for climbing. If you fancy a bit of walking or climbing their are a number of options to choose from but make sure you take local advice.

The peak district is also well known for its pot holing so if you are feeling brave make some enquiries, you will need to be fairly fit and agile though. There are many, many things on offer around this beautiful area, so it is well worth having a camera at the ready for snapshots of the scenic views and any animals you may come across.

Ashbourne is simply the perfect choice for your Peak District holidays.