Travelling abroad can be a hassle anyway, without all the extra added stress of travelling with children who suffer from travel sickness. Here we have put together some hints and tips on how to prevent travel sickness, but also how to deal with it when travel sickness strikes.
1. You should avoid large meals before travelling. Especially acidic foods and drinks.
2. You should try a few off-the-shelf sickness treatments. Find what works well for you child before setting off on a long journey.
3. Don’t let your child read or play games while travelling. Although everyone always says not to. Looking out of the window can actually be quite beneficial!
4. Although it is not always possible, if your child begins to feel sick, then you should try and stop the car where you can and let them walk out and gather fresh air. If this is not possible, opening a window can often be helpful too!
5. If you are planning on taking a cool bag, then you might want to dampen a towel and place it in there. A cool damp has been known to help many out when they have been suffering from travel sickness.
6. Try and bring a bag or a Tupperware box along as well, in case you child has passed the point of no return and they are definitely going to be sick. A box is sometimes better than a bag because it is much more secure, easier to hold onto and a lid can be placed onto it.
Travel sickness is sometimes avoidable however if you stick to these basic steps you will help to prevent the sickness from occurring and will be more than prepared if you are unfortunate and your child does begin to feel sick. Good luck!
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Norway is a fascinating and beautiful country, but many cruise passengers may overlook it at first when planning a holiday. Here are five good reasons why travellers should take a harder look at Norway cruises.
One of the most well-known attractions of Norway are the beautiful fjords. However, there are also spectacular waterfalls to see. The Geirangerfjord and Naeroyfjord are the top rated fjords in the country. In addition to these wonders are the 67,000 islands along the coastline. These protected and secluded islands offer views of natural wonders – like waterfalls – sheltered from human interference.
A great thing about cruises is the activities that the cruises themselves provide. When it comes to Norway, cruise lines have a wide range of activities to pick from, making these some of the best cruises to use. Cruise ships travel to 30 different ports in Norway, including the Spitsbergen on Svalbard, the North Cape and Lofoten.
When off the ship, there are even more activities to enjoy in Norway. No matter which port the cruise ship ends up at, there will be a range of exciting activities like mountain hikes, camping, fishing, golf and even polar expeditions to choose from.
The culture and history of Norway also should not be missed. Even the smallest town has a rich cultural history to share with visitors.
Finally, a top reason to do all this in Norway is because it is a friendly and safe destination. This stable, calm corner of the world is welcoming to tourists from all over the globe.
Greece is a fascinating island to explore, steeped in culture and of course, boasting some of the best year-round weather. It is still a cheap destination to get to, with flights from the main UK airports not costing more than an average of £100, depending on the time of year that you go. Whether you are a culture vulture that wants to explore the historical sites, or a beach babe that wants to go island hopping, Greece offers a wealth of activities.
It can also be a varied place to find accommodation, whether you want to stay in a luxury tavern by the beach, or a cheap holiday apartment in one of the busier towns. For example, in the southern peninsula of Greece you will find the Peloponnese, which has some of the most authentic Greek sights away from the maddening crowd, including the ancient cities of Epidaurus, Mycenae and Corinth. These areas typically have villas to rent within enclosed gardens, often with swimming pools to soak up the Mediterranean sun.
Hopping across to the Aegean or Ionian Islands, you can find altogether livelier accommodation, including all-inclusive hotels and large villas for big groups of travellers. Crete and Kos are also well known for their party atmosphere, so there are plenty of holiday villas to choose from to meet this demand, as well as apartment buildings that have all the amenities with which to enjoy a holiday in Greece – and some of the best value apartments can be booked last minute.
Inexpensive adventure travel is not only economical, but a great opportunity to experience foreign countries without the fuss of hotel rooms and organised group travel. There are certain countries that are more accommodating for the budget-conscious adventure traveller and some are discussed below.
Bohemia, the Czech Republic
Most tours in the Czech Republic are centred on Prague, but there are other fascinating places in the area that are off the beaten tourist track. Bohemia is a region of castle towers, cobbled streets and fairytales. For example, there is a town called Kutna Hora where a famous chapel is lined with human bones, while in Cesky Krumlov, there is a bear moat that has been home to bears since the sixteenth century.
Chania, Crete
A holiday destination that is full of romance, the Greek town of Chania is a place where travellers can find cheap studio apartments and enjoy peaceful evening strolls. Chania was once the capital of the island of Crete; its streets are narrow alleys with an authentic Middle Ages atmosphere, but the town is actually over 5,000 years old. A feature of the town is the harbour with its Venetian lighthouse and stalls selling pistachio nuts.
Austria
Austria is next door to the Swiss Alps but is not as expensive for tourists. An apartment in Fendels will serve as an ideal base for a hiking holiday in the Tyrolean Oberland, near the border with Italy and Switzerland.
Montenegro
Montenegro became an independent nation in 2006, after splitting with neighbouring Serbia. Visitors can rent a room in a private house very cheaply and three-course meals can be found for bargain prices. Having taken care of the basic necessities, the traveller is ready to explore the mountains, the coast, the beaches and the medieval villages.
Passengers enjoy travelling on luxurious cruise ships, exploring new destinations and taking excursions at the ports of call. Cruise and stay packages, for example, provide passengers with a holiday where they can experience different territories and new locations.
The history of cruises dates back to the early 20th century when the first cruise ships were built. In fact, cruise holidays became popular because of the long voyages taken across the Atlantic during the 1900s. These expeditions took days or weeks. Consequently, they were wearisome and the passengers had to take breaks ashore. Cruise liners in a bid to make the trips more pleasurable added on board facilities.
Whilst always in demand, the popularity of cruise and stay holidays has increased significantly in the 21st century. The services and the standards of the ships have augmented, as well as the sizes of the ships.
While some cruises still maintain the transatlantic crossing, others have ventured into the Antarctic regions among other exotic locations. Likewise, when you could only find few amenities in the past, now you can choose from an endless list of activities and accommodation.
The Louvre is the world’s most famous and most travelled to art gallery, with some of the most treasured masterpieces of all time on display. With roots in the 12th century, the building itself is a piece of history.
Upon entering the museum, the most striking visual aspect is the pyramid, especially when it is viewed at night. There is an entrance located near the pyramid, and once visitors enter the museum, they are treated to one of the largest collections of European art in the world, spanning all eras.
Though famous for its collection of European art, it is a lesser-known fact that this museum also contains a wide variety of ancient Egyptian artefacts. The history of the ancient world may be gleaned from these more than 50,000 works of Nile civilizations dating as far back as 4,000 BC. Artefacts from the Near Eastern civilization can also be found in the Louvre.
There are exhibitions happening all the time at the Louvre and for this reason, it is advisable that potential visitors look into what is available to them before coming.
Pack your bags light this year as you head out for a great family canoe trip. If your holidays fall during the summer months and you are looking for something different and memorable, book a flight to Pennsylvania and enjoy the local scenery by taking a canoe trip.
The West Branch Susquehana River Water Trail is a beautiful national recreation area in the heart of Pennsylvania’s wild country. This breathtaking trail winds for more than 220 miles through thick forests of Maple, Oak and Cherry trees. Visitors will also enjoy lush forest as they make their way through the Allegheny Mountains, where many of the state’s Elk live.
This area was once reserved for timber harvesting and the river served as its transportation route; however, since the 19th century, things have changed and this valuable land has been brought back to a natural wonderment for all to enjoy. This amazing family canoe journey begins in the small town of Cherry Tree, where you will meander through villages, historic towns and past farms.
The West Branch Susquehana River Water Trail is the longest river-based trail in the country, but it is not necessary to canoe down the entire length of the river in one go. Visitors can self-guide portions of the river by renting a boat for a daily fee and make their way with a map. The other option is to take the family for a longer outing by signing up for a guided tour and enjoying all that the Pennsylvania wild country has to offer.
Well we were doing so well for weather until we got closer to the Easter holidays, typical, and now the sun seems to have disappeared. Don’t fear though, why not look for some cheap holidays for the last week of the Easter break and enjoy some sun.
The most popular last minute holiday destinations, for some sun at this time of year are:
Sharm el Sheikh, Egypt
Sharm el Sheikh offers a vibrant holiday atmosphere, steeped in history. Sitting along the glistening waters of the red sea, this family holiday destination has plenty of hotels, restaurants and facilities for a week away, not to mention good temperatures.
Tenerife, Canary Islands
One of the most popular, all year round holiday destinations, Tenerife is the largest of the Canary Islands. There is plenty to see and do on this island, with many of the popular resorts for family’s such as Playa de las Americas and Puerto de la Cruz to the south.
Algarve, Portugal
Portugal is always a popular holiday destination not far to travel from the UK, plus at Easter it’s warm and sunny and has a plenty of activities. One popular tourist stop is Vilamoura in the Algarve, plenty for families or just those wanting a quiet break.
One thing all these destinations have in common is good weather for this time of year, with temperatures around 20°c to 25°c which is great for a family getaway which includes some sightseeing as well as sunbathing.
However if you really want some sunshine the further afield destinations like these will give you much higher temperatures:
Florid, USA
For a family break across the Atlantic, Florida has it all. A great taste of the US and plenty to keep a family occupied for a week. There are plenty of resorts to choose from whether you look for ones within the theme parks or self-catering villas outside.
Mexico
One thing is guaranteed in April, in Mexico and that is sunshine and scorching temperatures. Mexico is a popular choice for families as there are plenty of all inclusive hotels to choose from which means less strain on the finances whilst you’re out there.
Dominican Republic
Like Mexico, the Dominican Republic also offers high temperatures and plenty of sun, plus there is plenty to explore with guided tours of these magical islands.
If you still need some more inspiration for your family getaway then click here, you’re sure to find something!
Prices on cheap cruises and last minute cruise deals have finally convinced you it is time to take a cruise holiday. Here are a few dos and don’ts to keep in mind.
Do
• Seek the assistance of a cruise agent or cruise specialist. They are some of the best sources of information and have the latest cruise deals and advice. This is especially important for first-time cruisers; for those travelling with children or elderly people; or for those with disability or health issues.
• Consider no-fly cruises to save money. Cruises from Southampton or any other UK port save you the problems of crowded airports, cancelled or delayed flights and arranging transport from the airport to your embarkation port.
• Ask friends or acquaintances for advice and about their experiences of cruise holidays. Read reviews written by cruise passengers.
• Follow all safety requirements, advice and signs while aboard your ship.
• Use travellers’ cheques and keep an eye out for pickpockets when visiting port destinations.
Don’t
• Use your social media account to announce your holiday. Announcing to the cyber world that your house is empty may not be safe.
• Forget to make two copies of all important travel documents in case originals are lost or stolen. Take one set with you to keep in the ship’s safe. Leave one set behind.
• Forget to pack warm outer clothing. Even if you are sailing to sun-drenched ports, the sea air – especially in the evenings – can be chilly.
• Pack expensive jewellery or items you could not bear to lose. Expensive jewellery can make you a target for thieves.
• Limit your on board activities to ones you know. Sign up for something different. Don’t know how to salsa? Sign up for a class.
Finally, don’t forget to have a great time and do remember that great cruise deals are always available for your next holiday.
Planning sunshine holidays for you and you family might sometimes be somewhat stressful. However, with some careful planning, you will find that your holiday achieves what it is designed to do, be a means of stress relief.
Start by ensuring you have a valid passport. Travelling internationally almost always requires a passport. It can take several weeks to obtain a new or replacement, so obtaining a passport should be the first thing you do when planning foreign travel.
Once you have your passport, make your lodging and travel reservations. How you choose to travel to your destination may be based on a variety of factors, including how far your chosen holiday location is from your home and the cost of taking a train or car versus flying. In general, the best fares can be purchased about three months before your intended travel date. Typically, the cost of fares will rise slightly until about three weeks prior to your intended departure date. Once you are within three weeks of leaving, the cost of fares tend to dramatically rise, it is therefore best to plan ahead whenever possible.
Lodging reservations typically cost less during the working week. Therefore, if you are flexible on your travel dates you may prefer to avoid being away over the weekend. In some cases the cost difference can be quite dramatic.
Do some preliminary research on the area you will be visiting on holiday, whether it be holidays in Paphos or Rome; the internet has a vast array of information about near enough every holiday destination available. Although it can be great fun to explore a new country, you do not want to spend your entire holiday trying to determine how to spend your time and searching for places you would like to see. A little bit of research will enable you to thoroughly enjoy your time away.