Norfolk Royale Hotel, Bournemouth, UK

We have picked up one of these great offers from the weekly UK Travelzoo newsletter. They were offering 2 nights with breakfast and dinner at the famous Norfolk Royale Hotel in Bournemouth for £199. On the top of that, we would be upgraded to a the newly renovated club room.

So here we are in mid January where everybody is cold and grumpy, we take a weekend off in Bournemouth. After a 2 hours train journey, we arrive at the hotel on Friday late in the evening. The reception acknowledges us with our booking and give us instructions about what to find in the hotel. Our room feels fresh and contemporary. The club room seems to be a mile better than the standard room. Decent size, comfy king size bed, large wardrobe, flat screen on the wall and a decent bathroom with Molton Brown amenities. Breakfast was ok with everything you expect for a British breakfast. It just lacks some yogurts. For the dinner, we had to choose from a set menu with 4 starters, main courses and desserts + drinks. The dinner was simple but good quality. The dinner (breakfast) room is quite a big room with enough space between dinners to feel some privacy. 

Things we didn't like were the shabby fitness room with this old indoor swimming pool looking at the outside and also the fact we couldn't get the WIFI working in the room for free.

Definitely a good hotel to recommend if you happen to visit beautiful Bournemouth.

Ha Long bay the World heritage site, Vietnam

This traditional junk, small enough to be intimate but large enough to be comfortable, is the perfect way to explore the bay. With just six air-conditioned, en-suite cabins and a glorious picture-window salon with sofas and easy chairs, this vessel elegantly explores the islands and bays. The Vietnamese food on board is exceptional, served by friendly local staffs. 


Bai Tho junk cruise 2 days

Trip duration: 2 days/1 night
Level: Easy

TRIP PRICE based on Private Transfer and share boat
Without kayak
Group size 1 2 3 4 5 Single Cabin
Cost/person $253 $176 $157 $139 $126 $30
With kayak
Group size 1 2 3 4 5 Single Cabin
Cost/person $283 $197 $176 $159 $151 $30
Children Policy
Under 5 years old: Free of charged
From 5 - 12 years old: 50% - share cabin with parents
Trip includes:
Private transportation with air-conditioning round trip
English speaking local guide
En-suite cabin with private bathroom and air-conditioning
Meals during cruise time: 1 Breakfast, 2 Lunches and 1 Dinner
Fees and permit during guide time

Trip excludes:
Personal expenses, tips and gratuities

Itinerary:

Day 1: Hanoi – Halong
baitho_cruise-panviettravel.gifThis morning we will be met at the lobby of the hotel and transfer to Halong Bay. On the way we will stop at Sao Do town at a Handicraft farm that main workers are handicraft people. We will have a short break for relax with tea, coffee or walk around. After that we continue on transferring to Halong city. At midday, we arrive at Halong Bay pier where we will check in our deluxe junk. Welcome drink will be served by our friendly staff. The cruise will start the journey around the Halong Bay with the first stop at Thien Cung cave, Dau Go cave. While we are cruising, our delicious lunch will be served. We will catch first view of Tuan Chau island, Dinh Huong island, fighting cock islets…. In the afternoon, we can relax on boat to see the beautiful view of the Bay and have time to swim at Titov beach, enjoy sunset…. Dinner will be come at around 07:00Pm. Overnight on boat.
Today Lunch and Dinner included

Day 2: Halong – Hanoi
Getting up a little bit early today to do morning exercise and enjoy sunrise on the Bay, after that we will enjoy our breakfast at around 07:00AM. Our cruise will keep on cruising around the Bay in another part of the Bay for us to visit Bai Tu Long Bay, Con Coc island, Con Rong island, fishing village, Bai Tho Mountain and Hon Gai surroundings… At 11:00 we will enjoy the last meal on the boat and we will leave the junk at around 12:00. Our awaiting vehicle will transfer us back to Hanoi. Our trip will be ended at around 04:00 in the afternoon.
Today Breakfast, Lunch included
Bai Tho junk cruise 3 days

Trip duration: 3 days/2 night
Level: Easy

TRIP PRICE based on Private Transfer and share boat
Without kayak
Group size 1 2 3 4 5 Single Cabin
Cost/person $389 $282 $246 $219 $210 $60
With kayak
Group size 1 2 3 4 5 Single Cabin
Cost/person $439 $322 $296 $259 $250 $60
Children Policy
Under 5 years old: Free of charged
From 5 - 12 years old: 50% - share cabin with parents
Trip includes:
Private transportation with air-conditioning round trip
English speaking local guide
En-suite cabin with private bathroom and air-conditioning
Meals during cruise time: 2 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches and 2 Dinners
Fees and permit during guide time

Trip excludes:
Personal expenses, tips and gratuities
Itinerary:

Day 1: Hanoi – Halong
This morning we will be met at the lobby of the hotel and transfer to Halong Bay. On the way we will stop at Sao Do town at a Handicraft farm that main workers are handicraft people. We will have a short break for relax with tea, coffee or walk around. After that we continue on transferring to Halong city. At midday, we arrive at Halong Bay pier where we will check in our deluxe junk. Welcome drink will be served by our friendly staff. The cruise will start the journey around the Halong Bay with the first stop at Thien Cung cave, Dau Go cave. While we are cruising, our delicious lunch will be served. We will catch first view of Tuan Chau island, Dinh Huong island, fighting cock islets…. In the afternoon, we can relax on boat to see the beautiful view of the Bay and have time to swim at Titov beach, enjoy sunset…. Dinner will be come at around 07:00Pm. Overnight on boat.
Today Lunch and Dinner included

Day 2: Halong Bay
baithocruise-panviettravel.com.vn.gifOur breakfast at 07:00AM, we then prepare to continue on kayaking to explore the Bay. We paddle from Luon Cave toward islets in shape of Man’s head, Tortoise and the last destination is Cua Van fishing village. We will be back to our boat for lunch at around 11:00. In the afternoon, we once again kayak to the Three tunnels lake (selected according to the tides). And why we are not relax on the desktop to see the sun sets and drink some beers and enjoy the fresh atmosphere on the one of tranquil Bay that was recognized as a World Natural Heritage in Vietnam. This evening, another tasty seafood dinner will be served on board.
Today Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included

Day 3: Halong – Hanoi
Getting up a little bit early today to do morning exercise and enjoy sunrise on the Bay, after that we will enjoy our breakfast at around 07:00AM. Our cruise will keep on cruising around the Bay in another part of the Bay for us to visit Bai Tu Long Bay, Con Coc island, Con Rong island, fishing village, Bai Tho Mountain and Hon Gai surroundings… At 11:00 we will enjoy the last meal on the boat and we will leave the junk at around 12:00. Our awaiting vehicle will transfer us back to Hanoi. Our trip will be ended at around 04:00 in the afternoon.
Today Breakfast, Lunch included

Independent travel insurance advice

Before I start let me confirm that I’m not a qualified financial or travel insurance adviser, and don’t pretend to be, so the information in this article is written from my own experiences, and you should always speak to a qualified travel insurance broker or adviser before you buy.

Apart from covering items that may be stolen while you’re on holiday, including small amounts of cash; travel insurance offers many other important benefits. Policies usually include cover for medical expenses, useful if you fall ill or if you’re unfortunate enough to be attacked and injured. You must disclose any pre-existing medical conditions. 

Cancellation cover

Travel policies also tend to include some basic “personal accident” cover, paying a set amount in the event of loss of sight, limbs or injury resulting in permanent disability or death. Another important element is cancellation cover. 

If you have to cancel your holiday because of injury, illness or a disaster at home such as a fire, this will pay for any holiday expense you cannot recover. You need to check carefully what is covered and what isn’t, read the small print too.

Check the validity

Make sure your policy is valid for the whole journey and includes medical and repatriation cover. Always take a photocopy of your policy, along with a note of any 24-hour emergency numbers. Take the time to read the small print because it is this area of the policy where you will find out exceptions and what you are not covered for.

Travel insurance restrictions

Like all insurance policies there are restrictions. Limits to the amounts that will be paid under different parts of the cover usually apply and you won’t be covered for dangerous activities, such as abseiling or scuba diving. 

A claim could be turned down if you don’t look after your belongings properly. For example, if someone steals your things off the beach while you’re taking a dip in the sea, the insurance company might decide that you have not taken “reasonable care” and refuse to pay up.

Fraud in Travel insurance

Insurance companies are also growing increasingly concerned about fraud, especially with travel insurance. If you claim for anything that has been stolen they’ll probably want evidence that you actually owned the item in the first place. Keep photos at home of personal belongings that you’ve taken with you. Some insurers even ask for receipts.

Check household insurance policy

Check to see if you already have cover under your home insurance for personal belongings while travelling abroad or away from home in the UK. It might not mean that you will get a lower premium (try asking though), but it’s worth knowing as the cover under your home contents may be better or may have a lower excess.

Scheduled airline failure insurance 

Keep a look out for insurance that include scheduled airline failure insurance (SAFI) so that if your flight will be covered should the airline go into administration. In this day and age it is a good idea to take out this additional insurance. 

European Health Insurance card

The European health insurance card will provided you with free or discounted health care in the EU and in some non-EU countries. You can apply for the card online. It is important to remember that having this card does not substitute travel insurance, and it is recommended as additional protection.

Benefits of credit cards abroad

Don’t forget the benefits of using your credit card to buy things abroad. Most include automatic insurance cover on items bought with your card for a short period of time, including things you buy overseas. Check with your card company. 

Finally, if you and/or your family travel often, ask your insurance company about an annual policy. You pay a premium each year and are then covered for all holidays in that period without needing to take out individual policies – although you may be limited to a certain number of trips.

L.A. Style for Less

VENICE BEACH 

Hotel Erwin
Surf and skate culture inspired the decor in the hotel's 81 rooms and 38 suites. Graffiti-style art covers the doors, and safety-yellow metal partitions in the rooms display sunglasses for sale. Private balconies overlook the hopping Venice boardwalk. We especially love the pillow menu and the open-air rooftop lounge, which has views of the Pacific Ocean, 250 feet away. But what's with the fireplaces in the suites? Really, in Venice? 1697 Pacific Ave., 310/452-1111, jdvhotels.com, rooms from $179.  

LAX AIRPORT 

Custom Hotel
Working hard to prove that airport hotels needn't be dull, the Custom employs a private shuttle that takes guests to and from LAX while playing techno music over silent Greta Garbo movies. Clearly, this place is a playground for grown-ups. DJs spin Afro-Cuban tunes at Hopscotch, the pool bar and grill with a fire pit, four cabanas, and vintage video games. Artistically inclined guests can borrow art supplies from the 12th-floor studio, Scribble. 8639 Lincoln Blvd., 310/645-0400, customhotel.com, rooms from $95. 

DOWNTOWN 

O Hotel
This 68-room hotel sits in the heart of newly hot downtown L.A. Built in the 1920s, the steel-and-glass structure was recently renovated and now has a modern feel (think mood lighting that shines from under the beds and ergonomic desk chairs). The minimalist motif is mostly nice, except when it comes to things like cramped shower stalls. The on-site O Bar & Kitchen serves tapas and martinis until 11 p.m.—till 2 a.m. on weekends; a 7,000-square-foot underground lounge opens next spring. 819 S. Flower St., 213/623-9904, ohotelgroup.com, rooms from $129. 

HOLLYWOOD 

Hollywood Heights Hotel
In prime Hollywood, this hotel is within three blocks of the Walk of Fame, Madame Tussauds (opening August 1), and Grauman's Chinese Theatre. The lobby mixes the contemporary—white metal-frame sofas and graphic-print rugs—with black-and-white photos of film stars like Audrey Hepburn and Humphrey Bogart. Low-key restaurant and bar Hideout serves pot pies, short ribs, and mac and cheese. 2005 N. Highland Ave., 323/876-8600, hollywoodheightshotel.com, rooms from $169. 

LOS FELIZ 

Los Feliz Lodge
This group of 13 casitas was built in the 1920s as an enclave for the Paramount silent-film elite. The bungalows and villas—some of which still belong to full-time private residents—have amenities like stocked kitchens, washers, dryers, and French doors that lead to a communal patio. Los Feliz is a rare walkable neighborhood, and the Metro is only a five-minute stroll away. 1507 N. Hoover St., 877/660-4150, losfelizlodge.com, two-person bungalows from $150.

My concerns on fake hotel booking websites

I wrote only a few weeks ago about the villa rental scam in Spain. Well today I learnt of another potential scam, but this time with a hotel booking website. For legal reasons I am not going to mention the hotel site, as I have no concrete proof that this is the case.

I want to open up a discussion about the security of credit card deposits because I think we could have a massive problem. It is not difficult for someone to create a website to take deposits from hotel bookings, for the consumer to then find that no booking has taken place.

These scammers do not even need to worry about people finding the website, with Google Adwords you can have potential consumers coming in within minutes. The truth is that it is not difficult to create a fake hotel site, take the deposits, and run off with the money, leaving the consumer out of pocket. 

Not that I am suggesting people go away and do this. It’s illegal, and you’ll get caught.

Regulation for accommodation only sites

I do think that accommodation only sites need more regulation, and I have no idea how this could be done but I am concerned that millions of consumers across the world are using online booking and it is open up to abuse, the question is how does the industry do this.

Book with well known brands

From a consumers perspective I really do think that you need to look at booking with well known brands, and I know that’s not going to go down well with smaller independent hotel booking sites, which are above board, but, I would never hand my credit card details over to a site that I did not trust.

It’s like handing your credit card to a complete stranger in the street.

Concerns over credit card security

I have big concerns about the security of credit cards and I have previously written about the lack of security when booking hotels and that the details are sent insecurely through email to anyone managing the hotel’s reservations. As consumers we have no control over who see’s those details.

4 family vacation deals worth noting

Families looking to get away can take advantage of four kid-friendly programs and promotions in Mexico, the Caribbean, Hawaii, and elsewhere.

Azul Hotels by Karisma has two properties in the Riviera Maya, Mexico: Azul Beach Hotel and Azul Sensatori Hotel.
Why parents will love it: Before you even arrive, the all-inclusive resort can set up your room with strollers, cribs, monitors, bottle warmers, and baby bathrobes. The all-inclusive rate also covers Gerber baby food and free childcare at the Kid's Club one night a week. Kids under 3 stay free and children ages 3-12 get half off when sharing a room with their parents. At Azul Sensatori Hotel, a 35 percent off promotion gets you a night in a family Jacuzzi suite. If booked by Oct. 31, a family of four would pay $453 per night, compared to the regular price of $699. Connecting rooms are guaranteed if you book more than one room.
Why kids will love it, too: The toy lending library has all the latest Fisher-Price toys, enough to entertain even the shortest attention span (karismahotels.com).

(Courtesy JW Marriott Starr Pass Resort & Spa)
JW Marriott Starr Pass Resort & Spa in Tucson, Ariz., has partnered with Nickelodeon for a series of weekend retreats through Thanksgiving weekend.
Why parents will love it: For $378, the Nick Getaway weekend package in Tucson includes two nights' hotel, kids' activities, and a free character breakfast for two adults and two kids. (Each child receives a special SpongeBob Squarepants or Dora The Explorer sleepover kit with pillowcase and Nickelodeon themed gifts.) Similar packages are available at four other Marriott, JW Marriott and Renaissance properties in the U.S. (nickelodeongetaway.com)
Why kids will love it, too: Instead of just watching the cartoons, kids can start off their Saturday morning by dining with SpongeBob SquarePants and Dora the Explorer. During the day, there are relay races and other contests, followed by a classic Nickelodeon sliming. At night, kids can float on inner tubes and watch the free dive-in movies that are projected on a wall near the pool. As souvenirs, the kids can also take home the SpongeBob or Dora pillowcases in the rooms. 

Aston Hotels & Resorts can be found at 25 locations on Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and Hawaii.
Why parents will love it: This year's Vacation Bailout room rates are up to 40 percent off the regular price. Try the Aston Waikiki Sunset condo resort, from $124 per night for two adults and up to the three kids. The one-bedroom suite has a full kitchen, and the resort has on-site washers and dryers. Until Dec. 21, kids 17 years and younger stay free and children 12 and under eat for free at participating restaurants.
Why kids will love it, too: With a paying adult, kids also get in free at the Polynesian Cultural Center, Honolulu Zoo, and other island attractions. 

Cayman Islands 
Why parents will love it: Cayman Airways lets kids 11 and younger fly free with a paying adult. The Cayman Islands' Summer Splash promotion also lets kids stay and eat for free at nine participating hotels and 24 condo/villa properties. You have to book a four-night package by Sept. 2, but you get the fifth night free. This deal is valid until Sept. 7.
Why kids will love it, too: Kids ages 12 to 18 can learn to scuba dive for 50 percent off the regular rate when diving with a paying adult.

Things to Check before You Book Hotel Online

Most of the tourists or business travelers like to take a look at the hotel rooms and other facilities before booking it. With the advent of Internet you can actually do this. You can take a close look of the hotel, see the facilities and book the hotel online. This relieves you from the hassle of finding a proper accommodation after you physically arrive at a place. You can directly go to the hotel from the airport if you have already booked it.

However before you book hotel online you should check certain things. The first thing you should make sure is that the site is not a fraud. Your personal details should be safe and secure. Go through their privacy policy and terms and conditions before booking the hotel. Before booking see whether the site provides video of the hotel. Check the customer review of the hotel. Finally don’t forget to check whether the hotel provides option for modifying or canceling reservation.

Adventure Travel Insurance Gives you Peace of Mind

Adventure travel is fraught with risks. As it involves throwing yourself to the wolves, your life is always on the edge. Before you commit yourself to anything so daring, you to buy an adventure travel insurance. The first thing it will do for you is buy peace of mind.

Your adventure travel insurance should cover every particular sport or activity you plan to undertake. If go for bungee jumping or mountain climbing or kayaking or buy a policy that covers all these activities. These insurances will give you the option for similar activities. Always opt for this or else you may loose your coverage by a whisker.

Your thoughts on the future of hotel reviews

I’ve read a few blog posts recently about hotel reviews and a lot of discussion seems to be around Trip Advisor’s decision to add warning notices to some of their hotel listings. Basically, if it is found that the hotel has left fake reviews then a notice warning consumers is left on the hotel listing.

Personally, I am glad that those unethical hotel owners and managers are being shamed.

Reviews by your network

Guillaume at Hotel Blogs raised some good points about the Hotelicopter review system where users could read reviews from friends within their network on the site and on social networking sites like Facebook. Personally, I would trust people I knew more than random strangers.

I wonder though if consumers will continue to use reviews as part of the decision making process.

Future of reviews

Then they are sites like Trivago who integrate reviews from a number of different sites, so that you can get a cross section of reviews for the hotel. Hotel video review sites could work well, but way too many of them are professionally created and don’t offer an impartial view of the hotel.

On my last few trips, with the exception of my B&B in Berlin, all of the hotels had negative reviews and when I arrived at the hotel, none of the problems existed. The problem with reviews is that it could be a one off issue that may never exist again. Everyone has different perceptions of a hotel.

Your thoughts on the future of travel reviews

What was interesting during the week of travel tips, a number of people said to take reviews with a pinch of salt and this got me wondering if the trust in holiday and hotel reviews is waning. Will we see less consumers using review sites as part of the decision making process?

Swine flu warning for summer holidaymakers

Sat watching the news and the H1N1 swine flu virus seems to be taking up most of the airtime and with the school holidays now here, millions will be heading off on their holiday. So the Department of Health are advising people with symptoms of the virus to delay their holidays until they have gone.

Department of Health advice

Further travel advice includes; expect to receive strict screening procedures, take paracetamols with you and avoid public places if you fall ill. Holidaymakers travelling to Europe should carry a European Health Insurance Card and make sure that adequate travel insurance is purchased.

Check travel insurance policies

The piece of advice that I was surprised at was, if you catch swine flu while abroad, then holidaymakers should not travel home until recovered. So my advice would be to check your travel insurance to make sure you are covered, you should be, but, best to check in my opinion.

Concerns on treatment of holidaymakers

My concern is about how holidaymakers are going to be treated, especially if you sneeze or show signs of any of the symptoms. You might have read my airline passenger swine flu experiences post earlier this month and it was terrible some of the experiences people have already gone through.

Media panic but travel safe

I know some people think that the media has blown up the H1N1 swine flu virus out of proportion and to some degree I agree, but, when it comes to your health, especially when in another country, I think it’s best to take all precautions necessary to protect yourself or your family.

Hotel chains new worldwide ranking

The American publication Hotels Magazine has revealed the new 2008 ranking of hotel companies and what they call Sales & Marketing Consortia. The listing is ordered by number of rooms available per hotel group.

The analysis confirms the number 1 position for Intercontinental Hotel Group with 4,186 hotels and 619,851 rooms. The group includes brands like Holiday Inn, Intercontinental Hotels or Indigo. In terms of hotel brands, Best Western maintains it number 1 position with 305,000 rooms.

The Sales & Marketing Consortia list is an interesting one because it reflects how independent hotels have joined consortia. These companies are also called representation companies. They are helping independant hotels to be represented in the online and offline distribution and also be more powerful against hotel brands. For instance, hotels who apply to be part of the Design Hotels brands will have a clear advantage to attract the exclusive travelers generation who aims to find a special hotel whether on holidays or on business. Unirez/Utell (part of Pegasus) is clearly ahead of the game against competitors with 11,282 hotels and 1,381,379. Supranational comes second with 1662 hotels only. It's interesting to note that a lot of these representation companies are European, probably because 80% of hotels in Europe are not branded (the opposite scenario in the USA).

ATOL protection contribution to increase

From October 2009 consumers will find that the ATOL protection contribution will increase to £2.50 per person, you should find this on your holiday price breakdown. The rate at the moment is £1 and is put into the air travel trust fund, so that if the airline or travel company goes bust, you’ll be protected.

Clarification on booked holidays

At the moment I am not sure how you pay the additional £1.50 if you have booked a holiday already for travel after the 1 October, or if, it is for bookings after this date. I could not find this information available looking on the ATOL website, so if you know, please leave a comment.

ATOL protection contribution confusion

I am assuming that this contribution is only for consumers that have booked a flight with an ATOL bonded agent. The Daily Mail reported that the charge is for holidaymakers travelling by air, but surely if you book direct with a low cost flight then you do not pay the ATOL protection contribution.

Maybe someone could confirm because I didn’t find the Daily Mail article that helpful.

Feel safer booking with ATOL bonded agent

As a consumer I do not mind paying a few pounds if it means I am protected when booking a holiday with an ATOL bonded agent, but what I would not want to see is this contribution rate increasing year after year if more companies and airlines go into administration.

Your thoughts on the ATOL increase

At the moment the £2.50 ATOL protection contribution is cheaper than taking out scheduled air failure insurance so for consumers I do not think it is an issue. I am interested to hear your responses to the news, either as a consumer or someone from the travel industry.

The 5 most expensive hotel rooms in the world

Forget about your financial worries and enter the world of the super rich, where spending almost £23,000 a night to stay at the world's most luxurious hotels is nothing special. With help fromForbes here is our list of the five most expensive hotels in the world.

1. The Hotel Martinez, Cannes, France: Penthouse Suite

£22,900 a night

Situated on the famous seafront boulevard, the "Croisette", Hotel Martinez (pictured above) boasts a Michelin starred restaurant, piano bar and "vast" private beach. Not that you will need to mix with the hoi-polloi if you book the luxurious and very expensive Penthouse Suite. You'll have a sitting room, dining room, two bedrooms, two bathrooms with hammam, shower, a spa bath, dressing room and sauna at your disposal as well as a huge terrace that overlooks the sea. Can I move in please?

00 33 4 92 98 73 00 www.hotel-martinez.com

2. Four Seasons Hotel, New York, USA: Ty Warner Penthouse suite

£21,500 a night

This 400 square metre penthouse tops the entire top floor of this magnificent hotel offering a 360 degree view of the Manhattan skyline. The nine-room suite is the brainchild of designer Peter Marino,architect IM Pei and the hotel's owner Ty Warner (the billionaire creator of the Beanie Babies). It boasts fabrics woven with platinum and gold, an indoor-outdoor Zen garden, a four foot high glass chandelier (see picture) plus the services of a personal butler, a personal trainer/therapist and a private chauffeur. The photos on the Four Seasons' website reveal its breathtaking luxury. Knowing that, unless I win the lottery, I'll almost certainly never enjoy its charms made me want to weep with envy.

001 758 5700 www.fourseasons.com/newyorkfs

Hotel President Wilson, Geneva, Switzerland: Royal Penthouse suite

£21,500 a night

The Swiss are famous for being souls of discretion about wealth as well as making damn-fine luxury watches. These values are reflected in this luxurious and ultra secure suite. Littered with period pieces, including a 1930s billiard table and a Steinway grand as well as breathtaking views over Lake Geneva and Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in the Alps, the opulence is enough to take most people's breath away. It also comes with a private elevator, surveillance cameras, bulletproof windows, armoured doors and bedside panic buttons. It's enough to make you paranoid.

00 41 22 906 6666, www.hotelpwilson.com

4. Grand Resort Lagonissi, Athens, Greece: The Royal Villa

£21,000 a night

With a butler, private chef and pianist at your beck and call there is no need to lift a finger - except to sip martinis - when you stay at this gorgeous villa. But when you're feeling more active you can also enjoy an indoor pool, outdoor heated pool and a gym. There's also a private marina and beach close by.

00 30 22910 76000 or visit www.lagonissiresort.gr.

5. Hotel Cala di Volpe, Costa Smeralda, Italy: Presidential Suite

£16,800 a night

Number five in our list of the fabulous and fantastically expensive can be found on the sun-kissed Costa Smeralda, a playground for the rich and famous for decades. The suite comprises three bedrooms, three bathrooms, an outdoor saltwater pool and a private gazebo and solarium.

00 39 0789 976 1111 or visit www.starwoodhotels.com.

Car hire shortage in Spain an issue for holidaymakers

A consumer issue was brought to my attention this week with regard to the holiday car hire on the Costa’s in Spain. There are stories of people arriving at Alicante and Murcia airports having previously booked, to be told on arrival that no car is available, or that the booking had been cancelled.

Inflated car hire prices in Spain

Some of the members on the Lay My Hat forum have said that the shortage of cars is relating to the recession; car hire companies are unable to purchase loans, so the number of cars available for hire has dropped and this has meant that the car hire companies have drastically increased the price.

Shortages of vehicles

Just last month Carrentals.co.uk reported that tourists could be presented with the possibility of missing out on car hire altogether this summer as providers in favoured locations including Alicante, Malaga, Palma report unusually high demand for cars.

I asked Auto Europe about the situation and their response was that they predict that hire cars will sell out in some popular holiday destinations during July and August. Spain is currently challenging with shortages of vehicles predicted in: Malaga, Alicante, Mallorca, and Barcelona.

Could this not be simply that it is a peak time of the year, or is this a first?

Holidaymakers cancelling holidays

This is a particular problem for people who rent their holiday homes in remote areas of Spain and whose customers will rely on car hire. Some holidaymakers are cancelling because they have been quoted over £400 for two weeks car hire, more than the cost of the flights.

Holidaymakers could be disappointed

Many holidaymakers heading to Spain could be disappointed, especially if they have left it until the last minute. I am interested to hear from consumers who have had their car hire cancelled or witnessed the price hike, or are you a holiday homeowner affected by this price hike.

Reveal your thoughts on the behaviour of tourists abroad

This week I wrote about anti-social behaviour of British tourists then today, Expedia revealed their best tourist index, which takes the opinion of over 4,500 hoteliers worldwide to rank nationalities on their behaviour. The rank includes tourist spending habits and willingness to speak the local language.

Brits more likely to complain

Not surprisingly us Brits have been named as the worst behaved in Europe by European hoteliers; they also voted us bad tippers and very likely to complain. Compare this with the impression of Brits outside of Europe where we ranked second as the best behaved and generous tourists.

Japanese best tourists in the world

The index reveals that the Japanese are easily the world’s best tourists, scoring highly not only as the quietest and most polite but also the cleanest and least likely to complain. Hoteliers named French tourists as the world’s worst European tourists because primarily of their rudeness.

Americans are the loudest tourists

The loudest nations are Americans, Italians and Spanish but the Americans are the biggest tippers. The Japanese, Canadians, Germans and Australians are considered the most polite nations. What is encouraging is that Brit’s are number three for the most likely to try to speak the local language

I am interested to know if you agree with the best tourist index results.

http://www.travel-rants.com/

Thoughts on the Morairaway fake villa rental scandal

Consumers in a recession are looking to cut costs, especially when you consider the price of a holiday for families during the school holidays. This has made renting a holiday villa attractive to many. Book your own flight and then search online for holiday accommodation, what could be simpler.

Fake villa scandal

Over the last few weeks I have been reading the Moraira bogus villa website coverage on Times Online. Around nine months ago the site was set up and the villas advertised online on sites likeHoliday Rentals and Holiday Lettings, it has since then materialised that the villas are fake.

According to the Times, possibly hundreds of families have had their holiday spoilt, which is never good news. It is difficult for both rental sites and consumers to identify fake ads and this is why last year I called for there to be protection for consumers who book accommodation-only online.

Tips for consumers

While initial communication might be through email, it is always important that you speak to the person who you are renting the accommodation from. Only pay by means where a trace can be put on the money should you have problems later.

Ideally, book with a credit card, that way you are covered by the consumer credit act.

They are other ways in which consumers can check the authenticity of the website by checking the ownership and age of the domain name, check the ISP details within the emails sent. You could also check the search engines for any negative comments by other holidaymakers.

If something does not feel right. Trust your gut instinct.

Millions of holiday rental sites worldwide

Home Away turned over approximately $140m in 2008 and this is why they are so many holiday rental websites offering accommodation to consumers. So, how do consumers know who to trust when there’s the potential of fake ads being published to book?

How do we know that all of these sites have practises in place to protect travel consumers? I do have some thoughts on how rental companies could put more protection steps in place and I am happy to discuss these outside of this post.

Not a widespread issue
I have to add that I do not think that is a widespread issue because I am sure we would hear many more similar cases, even so, I think it is important that rental companies act on this scandal and find solutions to make sure that this does not happen again.

Time for financial protection scheme

In my opinion it’s time that a joint bonding scheme was introduced, and consumers would then have the option of only booking with those companies serious enough to join such a scheme. As usual I am happy to hear your thoughts and comments, and let me know if you have been affected by this issue

ATOL protection contribution to increase

From October 2009 consumers will find that the ATOL protection contribution will increase to £2.50 per person, you should find this on your holiday price breakdown. The rate at the moment is £1 and is put into the air travel trust fund, so that if the airline or travel company goes bust, you’ll be protected.

Clarification on booked holidays

At the moment I am not sure how you pay the additional £1.50 if you have booked a holiday already for travel after the 1 October, or if, it is for bookings after this date. I could not find this information available looking on the ATOL website, so if you know, please leave a comment.

ATOL protection contribution confusion

I am assuming that this contribution is only for consumers that have booked a flight with an ATOL bonded agent. The Daily Mail reported that the charge is for holidaymakers travelling by air, but surely if you book direct with a low cost flight then you do not pay the ATOL protection contribution.

Maybe someone could confirm because I didn’t find the Daily Mail article that helpful.

Feel safer booking with ATOL bonded agent

As a consumer I do not mind paying a few pounds if it means I am protected when booking a holiday with an ATOL bonded agent, but what I would not want to see is this contribution rate increasing year after year if more companies and airlines go into administration.

Your thoughts on the ATOL increase

At the moment the £2.50 ATOL protection contribution is cheaper than taking out scheduled air failure insurance so for consumers I do not think it is an issue. I am interested to hear your responses to the news, either as a consumer or someone from the travel industry.

Hotel and travel product blogger reviews lack the trust factor

While getting ready for work this morning I wondered if people trust hotel and travel product reviews written by blogger’s. Before you all start giving me a hard time, let me say I understand why blogger’s take free hotel rooms and travel products in return for reviews.

Blogger reviews seem one-sided

The posts I have read recently though seem very one-sided and if I want to stay in a hotel I want to read mixed reviews, both positive and negative. I realise some hotels could create fake reviews, and that’s why I do not rely on one person for their opinion when reading reviews.

I read a review on luggage, but it was all about how fantastic the product was. Personally, I would have trusted that review a lot more if they had also stated what they did not like about it. Part of the problem is that some PR agencies and travel companies expect you to write something positive.

Ranting about Krakow

Only last week I was asked if I wanted to go on a long weekend break to Krakow and write a review, out of interest I asked if they minded me ranting about their client, if it was not a positive experience. Let’s just say that the PR agency decided it would not be a good idea to send me.

Consumer trust ranks high

A study by Yahoo revealed that “trustworthiness” is the most important characteristic for a travel web site looking to appeal to users. Interestingly, German’s and Italian’s have scored the highest for trusting consumer reviews when making a booking. Brits are more likely to search online after work.

Hat tip: Travolution

Your thoughts on this discussion

For hotel or resort reviews I would trust consumer reviews more, for travel products like luggage I can see the benefit of using blogger reviews prior to purchasing them, as I do when reading reviews on sites like Amazon. As usual I am interested in your thoughts.

Sign the UK Air Passenger Duty Petition

While browsing through Travelmole this lunchtime I noticed an article on a government petition that the travel trade is signing to abolish air passenger duty. Hopefully enough people sign the petition to make the government sit up and do something about this ridiculous tax on flights.

I’m not holding my breath but please take one minute and sign the petition.

Offsetting my flights

My argument is that we cannot prove that this tax is helping the environment; how much are the airlines receiving to research bio fuels? I offset all of my flights carbon emissions and I suspect if more airlines gave us the opportunity to offset during the booking process, many would, rather than pay APD.

Air passenger duty to increase

From November 2009 passengers flying in an economy seat, within Europe will have to pay £11, flying to the USA will cost you £45. For those flying to South Africa or Australia will have to £50 or £55. What is extremely annoying is that in November 2010 the air passenger duty will increase further.

According to ABTA the government raises about £2 billion a year from air passenger duty.

Tourism and the recession

Inbound tourists must surely bring in a lot of revenue to the UK economy and I suspect many tourists are put off coming to the UK because of reasons like air passenger duty tax. As I’ve said numerous times recently, and sorry for repeating, but surely tourism will help this country come out of a recession.

Reveal your thoughts on the behaviour of tourists abroad

This week wrote about anti-social behaviour of British tourists then today, Expedia revealed their best tourist index, which takes the opinion of over 4,500 hoteliers worldwide to rank nationalities on their behaviour. The rank includes tourist spending habits and willingness to speak the local language.

Brits more likely to complain

Not surprisingly us Brits have been named as the worst behaved in Europe by European hoteliers; they also voted us bad tippers and very likely to complain. Compare this with the impression of Brits outside of Europe where we ranked second as the best behaved and generous tourists.

Japanese best tourists in the world

The index reveals that the Japanese are easily the world’s best tourists, scoring highly not only as the quietest and most polite but also the cleanest and least likely to complain. Hoteliers named French tourists as the world’s worst European tourists because primarily of their rudeness.

Americans are the loudest tourists

The loudest nations are Americans, Italians and Spanish but the Americans are the biggest tippers. The Japanese, Canadians, Germans and Australians are considered the most polite nations. What is encouraging is that Brit’s are number three for the most likely to try to speak the local language

I am interested to know if you agree with the best tourist index results.

Read Hotel Reviews before you Book

A tip that I have given holidaymakers many times in the past is before you book the hotel [be it with a travel agent, hotel booking site or direct with the hotel] make sure that you read reviews of the hotel.

Whilst Trip Advisor is the best site for this, they are others, and it’s probably a good idea to check two or three hotel review sites to get a better picture of the hotel.

Here’s a selection of hotel review sites I found on Google:

Holiday Watchdog
Holidays Uncovered
Real Holiday Reports
Gusto
Travel Library
Hotel Shark
Travel Post

I have only used Trip Advisor and Holiday Watchdog in the past, but the other sites seem to have tons of reviews and will help you make that important decision. If you use a site that’s not mentioned here please feel free to leave a comment.

Review of the City AS hotel in Oslo

When you’ve book a hotel you never know what to expect, no matter how many photographs you view of the hotel. I have to admit I took a bit of a gamble, because the hotel reviews on Trip Advisor weren’t exactly brilliant, with reports of ladies of the night and a peep show near the hotel.

The City AS Hotel was a good choice though, with no sign of ladies of the night or peep shows and to be honest I couldn’t really imagine anyone wanting to stand around on the streets at night in minus 12 temperatures, but the aim for me was to get somewhere cheap, clean and central.

The hotel reception is located on the 4th floor, and I was greeted at the hotel by a friendly member of staff who checked me in and told me about the hotel and its facilities. The room was small, and had a shared shower and toilet, but the room did have a sink a double wardrobe, bed and television [I won’t mention the free ‘Swedish channel’]

I was impressed that a cheap hotel in one of Europe’s most expensive capital cities had facilities such as free WiFi access and a TV-room and business facilities. The breakfast was including in the price of the room, and included a typical continental breakfast – including fresh bread and meats.

The downside to the hotel was the noise – the walls were thin and I could hear everything that my neighbour got up to, but, I was willing to put up with that considering I only paid £25 a night, and I paid three times this on my last visit to London for an unimpressive hotel.

Perfect summer beaches, parties and road trips

There has been quite a bit of discussion about the future of blogs and Travel Weekly interestingly highlighted that only 7% of consumers would use a blog to research their holiday destination. I think that’s because most people cannot differentiate between a site and a blog.

You only have to look around online to find some great travel blog content so, this month’s blog carnival I have chosen five of my favourite posts bookmarked on my StumbleUpon page. If you want to be featured on future carnivals, add me as a friend.

Six indie places to soak up the sunshine this summer

Summer is here and most of us will be heading off on holiday, either in Britain or abroad. I am not the type of person who likes to lie around on the beach but this is a well written guide that highlights six great places to have some fun this summer.

Find out which destinations are featured

In defence of British Food

It’s good to read someone defending our great British food. I have to say that I do not think British food is particularly healthy and quite stodgy, but, you cannot beat a nice roast dinner with Yorkshire puddings on a Sunday.

Join in the debate about British food

Four great scenic coastal drives in Bali

I have never been to Bali, but after reading this in-depth guide and looking at the photos I now want to go. It features tons of great advice about the coast drives and the types of tourist attractions that you will find on your drive.

Learn more about Bali

Ten tips for planning a round the world trip

Another really in-depth blog post providing great trips on planning your next round the world trip, the guide covers everything from places to visit to budget planning and advice on how to find accommodation. A great read.

Get planning for your RTW trip

Top cities for partying

I envy Matt, not only is he travelling around the world, but he’s also partying too! I have heard of the Full Moon party in Ko Phangan, but never realised that over 20,000 people attended it. Very useful post if you’re looking to find a destination where you can party till’ the early hours.

Crackdown on Brits anti-social behaviour abroad

Some of you may remember the story to hit our headlines earlier this year when a group of 17 men were out in a lively part of Crete dressed up as nuns and were arrested, put in prison and sent to court after causing offence to the catholic community.

Brits dressed as nuns

Pictures of the men dressed up in nun’s uniforms appeared in our national newspapers and on the news channels. It might have appeared as a funny story to many but it is worth pointing out that you should take responsibility for your actions when abroad.

Greece has put up with a lot of negative press in recent years due to the antics of drunken Brits, and it seems that enough is enough. Who would blame them? Some of the Greek islands survive on tourism so it appears that they wanted to send a message that anti-social behaviour would not be tolerated.

Respect local cultures

While many people might not be offended if you dressed up as a nun while on a weekend out in Blackpool you have to remember to respect local cultures. So, don’t organise a fancy dress night while on holiday without thinking, would it offend local people.

Change of advice for travel to Greece

Interestingly, the Foreign, Commonwealth, Office have changed their advice for British holidaymakers heading to Greece this summer. I would not be surprised if we see a crack down on anti-social behaviour when on holiday abroad this year.