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A Guide to the UK's Top 10 Best Beaches
This summer, why not pack your beachwear and head somewhere a little closer to home? The temperatures may not reach Mediterranean heights, but there are some amazing beaches in the UK just waiting to be explored.

So slip on a hat, slap on some sunscreen and go in search of sun, surf and sand. Before you leave, however, make sure you have adequate travel insurance. Many people don't realise it's still a good idea to have travel insurance at home as well as abroad. It's not needed for medical emergencies, but cancellations or curtailments could leave British holidaymakers out of pocket.

1. Sennen Cove, West Cornwall

This surfers' paradise is tucked into the corner of Whitesand Bay, a stone's throw from Land's End. Facing north-west, the beach stretches in an arc from beginners' waves to serious surf. On a sun-kissed day, walk the surrounding coastal paths and catch a glimpse of the Scilly Isles and local wildlife including seals, dolphins, and puffins. The Cove also boasts one of Cornwall's best-placed restaurants - The Beach.
www.visitcornwall.com

2. Thurlestone Sands, Devon

This tranquil beach lies in a sleepy corner of south Devon and stretches out to Thurlestone Rock - a dramatic sea arch made of red sandstone. Its clear waters and rock pools make it a perfect playground for children to discover marine life. With safe swimming and more than 30 shipwrecks in the area, it's also a favourite spot for watersports and diving.
www.thurlestonebeach.co.uk

3. Studland, Dorset

Studland's picture postcard good looks make it one of the most beautiful beaches in the country. Situated on the southern end of Poole Bay, its three miles of white-gold sands and warm waters make it perfect for swimming, building sandcastles and sailing. The beach is divided into Shell Bay, South Beach, Middle Beach and Knoll Beach - the National Trust's only nudist beach.
www.worldheritagecoast.net

4. Botany Bay, Kent

White cliffs, astonishing rock formations and extensive chalk reefs make this beach stand out from the crowd. It's the prettiest of the seven bays dotted around Broadstairs. Take a net, bucket and spade and even amateur rockpoolers can turn up starfish, crabs, piddocks and cuttlefish. Or take part in a ‘Rock Doc' walk organised by the Thanet Coast Project.
www.visitthanet.co.uk

5. Camber Sands, Sussex

The towering dunes and golden beach of Camber Sands are often used for film and fashion shoots. Low tide stretches out half a mile, leaving a vast expanse for horse riding, dog walking and atmospheric photographs. Camber Sands is also a destination for kiteboarders and windsurfers, who set up camp at the eastern end of the beach.
www.visitrye.co.uk

6. Southwold, Suffolk

An area of outstanding natural beauty, Southwold is a tale of two beaches. The Denes is a secluded rural beach, popular with walkers, while Pier Beach, of Blue Flag standard, is lined with brightly painted beach huts and great for a family day out. It's also enjoying a renaissance following extensive renovation - Southwold Pier was voted Best Tourism Experience in 2008.
www.visit-southwold.co.uk

7. Barafundle Bay, Wales

Not only has Country Life magazine named Barafundle Britain's best beach, it ranks among the 12 best in the world! Nestled between two limestone headlands, its turquoise waters and tree-lined shore continue to cast their spell over hearty beachcombers. Climb down steep, stone steps to arrive on the beach. And pack a picnic if you're planning to spend the day - there aren't any ice-cream vans in these parts!
www.pembrokeshirecoast.org.uk

8. Runswick Bay, Yorkshire

When you've tired of hiking the Yorkshire Moors, the quaint village of Runswick Bay offers one of the safest swimming areas for miles around. Sheltered by the majestic crag of Lingrow Knowle, moor a boat and take a dip in the sea, or pitch a deckchair close to the water's edge and feel the tide lapping at your feet. Originally a fishing village, Runswick now has its own sailing club with boat races every Sunday and plenty of water-skiing.
www.visitwhitby.com

9. Bamburgh, Northumberland

You'll get more than just sandcastles in Bamburgh. Dominating the skyline, Bamburgh Castle overlooks mile upon mile of magnificent sand. With a little bit of history (the Anglo-Saxon castle was restored in Victorian times), it's a great destination for families. There are rocks to climb, trails to explore or you can always go fly a kite. www.visitnorthumberland.com

10. Calgary Bay, Scotland

If you fancy a wee Scottish splash, Calgary Bay on the Isle of Mull won't disappoint. It's one of the finest beaches in Scotland with sweeping silver sand backed by woodland and colourful machair. The turquoise waters are clean and calm and off the rocks you can angle for mackerel and sea trout. Thanks to the Hebridean climate, you may even have the beach to yourself!
www.undiscoveredscotland.co.uk

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Read more about the UK's best beaches on http://www.confused.com/travel-insurance .

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Attractions around Bath
Are you currently planning a trip to Bath? Bath is an amazing city. It has so much to offer everyone who comes and visits. There are a lot of great shops in the city and the dining is incredible. And, you will undoubtedly see great sites along the way. However, make sure you leave enough time in your travel itinerary to make it to the sites right outside of Bath. They are amazing and right outside the city. Since you are so close, you will not want to miss them. Here are a few things you should consider planning to see:

• Avon Valley and Keynsham. The River Avon flows through bath. You can take the Avon Valley Railway and see the path of the river. There is a park on the rivers edge near Keynsahm where kids like to play.
• The Chew Valley. This valley is tucked away in the shadow of the Mendip Hills. The Lakes of the valley provide a lot of tranquility outside the bustling city of Bath. The Lake is also considered an area of natural beauty.
• Somer Valleys. These valleys are located between Bath and the Mendip Hills of Somerset. Apparently the area has a great industrial heritage and was once home to mining collieries.
• Limpley Stoke and Midford Valleys. This is a setting for waterside strolls. It is also a great by for narrow boats. There are a lot of landmarks along the waterside.
• South Gloucestershire and The Cotswolds. This area is a bunch of rolling hills that has honey-coloured villages. It is very English. There are stonewalls, hidden rivers and market towns that have famous Cotswold stone.
• The Mendip Hills and Somerset. These areas are fun to visit for history and legend. There are Arthurian and Christian monuments here as well as geological landmarks.
• West Wiltshire. This area is located off the East of Bath. It is a picture perfect area that has a great heritage. There is an ancient bridge in the town that is famous and of historical significance.

You will most likely want to stay in Bath and then travel to these areas. Consider staying somewhere close to where you are interested in visiting. Or, if you are planning on staying in one of these areas for more than a day, change hotels. They have great accommodations. So, look into your options.

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This article was written on behalf of Bailbrook Lodge providing Bed and Breakfast Bath ideal for a Short Break in Bath.

Source: http://www.articletrader.com
Best places to eat out in Bath
One of the most famous cities in England is Bath. If you live here, Congratulations! For the rest of us in England, we have to schedule our trip. We may plan a holiday or attend the annual Bath Festival. And, when we come to the amazing city we want to make sure that we not only experience the fantastic culture that the city has to offer, but that we also take in the fabulous options for eating and drinking. If you have never been to Bath, or if you are looking for some suggestions, keep the following in mind:

Restaurants

Bath has a variety of restaurants to choose from. You can find the national chains or visit a local independent restaurant. The great thing about the restaurants in Bath is that they are known for the "quintessentially English" reputation. You can find restaurants that serve afternoon tea, Sunday roasts, and fish and chips. Additionally, Bath has a lot of international food options. Basically, there is something for everyone. Check into restaurants that offer the following types of food:

• American
• Chinese
• English
• European & Mediterranean
• French
• Greek
• Indian
• Italian
• Mexican & South American
• Moroccan
• Spanish & Portuguese
• Thai & Malaysian

Pubs

Bath is home to many traditional British pubs. They sell homemade food in addition to local ales and cider. Going to the pub is a fun way to experience the country lifestyle. You will experience a good meal next to a fire. Also, you will be in the company of more locals when you go to a pub. The great thing about the pubs is their bustling environment. Many people are usually there so it is a fun place to go and relax, socialize, drink, and eat. Check out one in the heart of the city.

Delis & Cafes

Most people in Bath do lunch at a Deli or Cafe. A popular area for lunching is Milsom Place. Many women gather here after they finish shopping. Additionally, Le Parisien and Café Rene are both popular Cafes in Bath. These cafes are informal and sit in beautiful courtyards. They allow you to experience fresco dining at its finest. Lastly, if you want to dine among great architecture, go to Riverside Café or The Circus Café and Restaurant. Both of these Cafes are located by some of the great architecture in Bath.

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This article was written on behalf of The Royal Hotel providing accommodation for Short Breaks Bath and exclusive Spa Breaks offer with renowned Champagne house Taittinger.

Source: http://www.articletrader.com
A tour of the Uffizi Gallery and Museum: Florence history of art
No tour of Florence is complete without a visit to the Uffizi Gallery. One of the oldest museums in the world, the Uffizi is home to some of the most exquisite artwork in history. Names like Leonardo da Vinci and Duccio are synonymous with the Uffizi Gallery, and many familiar works of art, such as Doni Tondo by Michelangelo and the Primavera by Botticelli, hang in it's great rooms.

The Uffizi Gallery was built between 1560 and 1581, but was officially open to the public only in 1765. It was first designed to be the offices of the magistrates of Florence: "uffizi", in Italian, means offices. Giorgio Vasari was the architect who designed the gallery, but He was unable to finish the work he started, so the building was completed by Bernardo Buontalenti and Alfonso Parigi. The gallery is built in a characteristic "U" shape, which opens up for a wonderful view of the Arno River.

The Uffizi Gallery was planned by the Grand Duke of Tuscany to host the vast collection of artwork the Medici family held in their personal possession, and many of the works of art were commissioned by that family. Under order from the last of the Medici heiresses, Anna Maria Lodovica, the collection was to remain in Florence, never to leave. This was the beginning of one of the world's most famous museums.

The collection belonging to the Uffizi Gallery is extensive: the artwork changes many times during the year because of restorations or cleanings. Also, some pieces are loaned to other museums and galleries in the area. No matter what is on display, there is always so much to see the visit is worth every minute you spend in the gallery.

The paintings and art work date clear back to the 1300's so there are certain conditions the Uffizi Gallery makes to keep the masterpieces safe. One is to limit the number of visitors at any one time into the museum. This helps to keep the temperature down and bring less stress to the paintings. The artwork, in fact, can sweat when too hot and this can cause damage to these ancient masterpieces.

The Uffizi Gallery has suffered damage of it's own accord. There was a flood in 1966, which caused great damage, and to this day there are pieces which are still being restored. Then in 1993 a bombing cause much damage to the west wing; the east wing suffered less extensive damage. During the blast two paintings by Bartolomeo Manfredi and one work by Gerrit van Honthorst were completely destroyed. There were 32 other paintings damaged. Now each painting is protected by bullet proof shields which also protect against vandals.

When visiting the Gallery and Museum, booking one of the many Uffizi tours is highly recommended. There are many tour operator and tourist guide that organize guided tours of the Gallery. By doing so, you can avoid the long lines of visitors waiting to get in and admire the great collection of masterpieces by the guide of a expert in the history of Florence art.

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Federica Esposito is one of the tourist guides working for a www.walksinsideflorence.it , a team of professionals that organize Uffizi tours, private and walking tour of Florence for small groups of people.

Source: http://www.articletrader.com
Live your dream vacation in a holiday apartment in Florence
If you are an experienced traveler, especially one that prefers slow travel, you generally appreciate different types of accommodation than the traveler that spends one or two days in a city and then hops on a plane to get to another city. You want the slower pace and the feeling that you are taking up residence in a city and not just passing through without even having enough time to unpack your bags. Whether your dream vacation is an entire spring in Tuscany exploring all that Florence and the surrounding rolling hillsides have to offer or you have only a week to live out your vacation fantasies; the most relaxing and home like atmosphere comes when you rent one of the many holiday apartments available in Florence. Italy has a great availability of residence apartments in general compared to a lot of other countries. The extremely high rate of tourism and the huge number of international students that stay for anywhere from one month to one year contribute to an enormous market for these apartments.

The advantages of renting holiday apartment in Florence, rather than one a room in one of the many hotels, is increased with every additional day that you will be staying. The larger space and availability of a kitchen are obvious. But also you might want to consider the size of the bathrooms which are much larger in general in a residence apartment than in a hotel room and may even offer a bathtub to have a nice long bubble bath in after a long day of wine tasting. Your preference for where in the city you would like to stay is also a thought to keep in mind. Florence is a city made of apartments, so where in the city would you like to stay? The choice is yours, as is the decision on the size of apartment. A short term apartment for your vacation in Florence can range from a student style place with single beds for you and a friend all the way to a luxury apartment looking over the Arno that can accommodate a group of ten.

Before you call your travel agent or go online to travel websites, what are the decisions you want to make about your dream vacation, living like a native, taking up residence in Florence, Italy? Just the thought makes most want to float away in dream of Chianti and bistecca alla Fiorentina. First, consider your location; like a lot of European cities, Florence is a walking city and your choice of location should depend on what you want to be near. There will be short term apartments available in virtually every nook, cranny and curvy cobblestoned street that make up the hereditary home of the Medici's. The size options that you have to choose from can suit virtually any group of travelers, from a pair of friends staying for a few weeks taking an Italian course to an entire extended family rediscovering their Italian roots and flirting with the idea of taking up permanent residence in Florence, Italy, the city that nurtured everyone from Michelangelo to Ferragamo.

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Andrea Aloisio works as tourist guide and he's an experienced contributor to www.residencehilda.com, a luxury holiday apartment in Florence.

Source: http://www.articletrader.com
Wildlife in the Isles of Scilly
The waters around Scilly are clear and clean and looking into the shallows is like looking through a diamond curtain to the sparkling rubies, sapphires and other precious jewels below. Sea anemones coral and sponges shimmer and sparkle in deep vivid colors, while sea slugs try to hold their own in the colour game, the white background of their bodies standing in stark contrast to the brilliant foreground striations.

Grey seals cruise the bottom looking for likely meals while common dolphins play in the blue depths and fling themselves into the air with wild abandon, flipping and spinning, smacking their tails against the water with resounding splats. Always on the lookout, even when playing, for the voracious killer whales that travel in pods and have a taste for not only dolphins, but also seals.

Basking sharks wheel their way along the bottom, the gunmetal grey of their shimmering with dancing as the rays of the sun stab their way down into the depths. Leatherback Turtles fly through the water, lazily moving their fin shaped legs. The peculiar ocean going Sunfish weaves it's way through the water, it's rearward placed fins slicing through the liquid blue.

On the land, a multitude of flowers bask in the sun, bouncing lightly with the wind while attended to by insects collecting precious pollen to fuel the growth of their bodies and their hives. As the seasons change, one flowering species gives way to another and the land bursts into yet another splash of vibrant color.

The islands are known for their diversity of bird life. If Scilly's own birdlife isn't enough, the islands are also a stop off point for a large diversity of migrating birds.

Sandpipers stroll along the beaches, poking their beaks searchingly into the sand looking for tasty tidbits while falcons turn and wheel in the sky, their sharp eyes focused on the ground below, scanning for an unwary little animal. Sparrows are a common sight on the island among the thrushes, blackbirds and a multitude of other brightly colored birdlife.

Land mammals are not terribly common on the islands and the land mammals that do reside there are small in stature. The Scilly Shrew, also known as the white-toothed shrew is common on the islands and has not been found to inhabit anywhere on the mainland. Many rodent species inhabit the islands including Hedgehogs, brown rats and rabbits. Pipistrelle bats are the only bat species recorded as inhabiting the islands. Canine and Feline species based predators are noticeably absent on the islands.

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This article was written on behalf of Isle of Scilly Travel who can Fly to the Isles of Scilly for amazing Days out in Cornwall.

Source: http://www.articletrader.com
The best ways to travel to Wales
If you are currently planning a holiday to Wales, the first thing on your mind is probably how you are going to get there. Fortunately, there are a variety of ways to get to Wales. It really depends on the amount of time and money you want to spend. Also, consider how far you live from Wales. England is a relatively small country, however, while for some a trip to Wales is a simple train ride, for others, that train ride could last all day.

By Plane

If you are considering flying, the main airport in Wales is the Cardiff International Airport. This airport is approximately 19 km from Cardiff. You can get to Cardiff by taking a train, bus, or taxi. Also, there are restaurants, shops, ATMs, etc. on site. It is a great alternative for you travel needs, especially if you want to get to Wales quickly.

By Water

You also have the option of getting to Wales on water by using the main ports - Fishguard and Holyhead. Both of these ports of have connections to the Republic of Ireland. Not only is this a great option for travel, but it could also be fun.

By Rail

A lot of people get to Wales by using the railroad. There are two main lines that run into Wales. One runs from London Paddington to Fishguard along the south Wales coast. The other rail connects Holyhead with Chester and northwest England. There are also 2 smaller lines that you could look into if those routes do not work for you.

By Road

According to travelers, the best way to get to Wales driving a car is through the M4 motorway. This road runs from west London to Newport Cardiff and Swansea. Alternatively, there is the option of driving on the A5. The A5 connects London and the Midlands with the ferry port of Holyhead.

Once you decide which transportation suits your needs and time constraints, you will probably be concerned about getting around in Wales. Most of the people tend to use rails. They are extremely convenient and affordable. However, some people also use cars. The roads, however, are small. So, it can be difficult to navigate in a car. Additionally, there is always the option of riding city buses. Many people use them. And, remember, when you are in Wales, you will be doing a lot of walking! So, pick the most convenient transportation method to get you to Wales, and then enjoy being there.

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This article was written on behalf of Celtic Haven Wales Holiday Cottage are ideal accommodation for a Short Break Wales

Source: http://www.articletrader.com
The best places to go walking in Wales
Are you planning your holiday to Wales? Good for you. It is one of the best spots to visit in all of England. The area is home to some of the nature's finest beauty. You will honestly be surprised at how breathtaking everything is. To help ensure you get the most out of Wale's beauty, consider the following:

1. Pack the right clothing and shoes for walking.
2. Make sure you know where you want to walk to so you can experience the full breadth of Wale's beauty.

Packing the right shoes and clothing is essential. You want to make sure that if it is hot you have a hat to shield you from the sun so you do not get burned. And, if you walk at night, you will want a jacket so you do not get cold. Also, remember that the right shoes are critical, because you do not want your feet to start to hurt on your relaxing holiday.

Once, you pack properly you can determine where to walk in Wales. There are so many great areas that you may have to narrow it down. Also, some areas may have the option of guided walking tours. That might be something you want to try. You also have the choice of doing a long distance walk. Whatever option you choose, walking allows you to distress in the great outdoors. It gives most people a sense of peace and tranquility. Try it.

Guided Walks

If you prefer to walk with a group and a guide, this might be a good option for you. There is strength in numbers and camaraderie. Also, you get the expertise of a guide. The guide might be able to point out things you might not have noticed otherwise. Here are walking groups in Wales that you might want to check into:

• Anglesey Walking Holidays
• High Plains Drifters
• Ceirog
• Dragon Trails
• Edge of Wales Walk
• Greenways Holidays
• High Trek Snowdonia
• Hillscape
• Plas-y-Brenin
• Plas Tan y Bwwlch
• Pembrokeshire Footsteps
• Walk Carmerthenshire
• Walking Snowdonia
• Snowdonia Guides
• Dryad Bushcraft
• Wild Track Walks
• Walk on the Wildside
• Walking North Wales
• Drover Holiday
• Explore Heart of Wales
• Walk Eryri
• Clwydian Walking Holidays

Walking Areas

There are a lot of areas in Wales that are great to walk through in a group or alone. You do not need a guide, just shoes. For some people, they prefer exploring on their own, and they are more apt to look into these areas rather than join a guided tour. Here are some great places to see on your own:

• Isle of Anglesey
• North Wales Coast
• Snowdonia
• North Wales Borderlands
• Cerdigion
• Mid Wales
• Pembrokershire
• Swansea Bay, Mumbles & Gower
• The Welsh Valleys
• Wye Valley and Vale of Usk
• Glamorgan

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This article was written on behalf of Celtic Haven Pembrokeshire Cottages are ideal accommodation for a Pembrokeshire Cottage Holiday

Source: http://www.articletrader.com
A Short Guide to the Isles of Scilly
The Isles of Scilly lie 28 miles due south west from the coast of Cornwall. Some travel experts, such as The Telegraph's Max Davidson, argue that that the islands haven't seen as many tourists as the numbers that visited during the sixties (they were made popular by Prime Minister, Howard Wilson) but I would say that may be this is set to change. With expenses such as travel insurance causing UK tourists to think hard about making their sterling go further - could the Scilly Isles find a surge of popularity in 2009?

St Mary's
The largest of the Isles, St Mary's is situated in the south west of the archipelago and has a population of around 2000. The island is home to the Scilly's only airport which serves flights to and from Bristol, Exeter, Newquay and Exeter. Nearby is Hugh Town, the biggest town on the islands, and a popular accommodation centre for visitors with easy access to a number of beaches. Star Castle, a fortress of architectural and historical significance also serves as a hotel.

Tresco
Tresco is the second largest isle and covers 753 acres, and has approximately 200 permanent inhabitants. The island is unique in that it only really serves as a tourist destination, and so during the summer months its population is noticeably larger with visitors. The island has several places of interest, most notably the Tresco Abbey Gardens - a beautiful demonstration of the temperate warm climate and the island's rich religious history with the establishment of a Benedictine Abbey in 964 AD. Tresco is a car free island.

St Martin's
St Martins is quieter again but is not as dependent on tourism as Tresco. There are three very small towns on the isle: Higher Town, Middle Town and Lower Town. Lower Town is home to the only public house on the island, The Seven Stones, whilst accommodation can be sought at the single hotel, St Martin's On The Isle, as well as the campsite between Lower and Middle and the guest house in Higher. The island is also home to the oldest dated beacon in the British Isles, the Daymark erected in 1637 - though the date is disputed.

St Agnes & Bryher
The remaining two inhabited islands are St Agnes and Bryher. The former is the southernmost island and is home to around 70 people. There are a few B&Bs and cottages available for accommodation as well as a pub and general store. Bryher is home to less than a hundred people and is perhaps the most rugged of the Isles. It is popular with sailors, scuba divers and walkers.

So with expenses such as travel insurance and foreign exchange rates causing UK tourists to think hard about making their sterling go further - the Scilly Isles may well be a popular destination this summer.

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If you are travelling further afield this summer then you can buy your travel insurance and foreign currency at competitive rates from the Post Office®.

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A guide to the cities of Switzerland
Basel
Basel has long been regarded as one of Switzerland's leading cities for architecture, music and art. The city has an amazing 40 museums as well as many fine galleries, theatres and the cities very own orchestra. The cities location at the three countries region of Switzerland (where the country boarders France and Germany) has give the city a vibrant feel and plenty of contrasting aspects. Some of the landmarks of the city include the market square, the red sandstone town hall and the Romanesque-Gothic cathedral.

Bern
The capital of Switzerland, Bern, has managed to retain most of its ancient features and charm, which is why the city has been listed on UNESCO Cultural World Heritage Sites. The city is full of medieval squares, fountains, narrow streets and tall towers making it quite unlike anywhere else in Switzerland. The pretty city also boasts the largest sheltered shopping promenades in Europe with 6km of shopping arcades. The city has many museums, boutiques, bars, restaurants and cabaret stages to keep any tourists entertained and enthralled.

Geneva
Located in the picturesque spot where the River Rhone leaves Lake Geneva the international city of Geneva has stunning views of the lakes and nearby Alps. One of the most international cities in Switzerland, Geneva has plenty on offer with many parks, quaysides, lakeside promenades, cafes, restaurants and fantastic shops, plus concert halls who play host to some of the finest artists in the world. One of the most famous landmarks in the city is the Jet d'eau one of the largest fountains in the world.

Lausanne
Located at the opposite end of the Lake to Geneva, Lausanne has stunning views of the lake and the Alps which rise up on the opposing shore. One of the popular town's most famous landmarks is the cathedral which is regarded as Switzerland's finest example of Gothic architecture.

Zurich
Zurich is the largest city in Switzerland and is often referred to as the cultural capital of the country. The vibrant and cosmopolitan city has a wealth of cultural delights on offer. There are numerous museums, galleries, theatres, bars, restaurants and the best nightlife in Switzerland. It's not just the nightclubs that provide entertainment during the nights, many of the open spaces of the city are transformed at night as great places to dance. Zurich is also well knows for it shopping, many of the world leading fashion houses have boutiques in the city as well as many of the best home grown designers that the country has to offer, there are of course many great watch makers to be found in the city as well.

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This article was written on behalf of Altogold Holiday Switzerland providing great accommodation for your Swiss Holidays.

Source: http://www.articletrader.com