When should you visit the Caribbean?

The Caribbean has become a year-round holiday destination which is great if you like to bag an off-season deal or have a favourite luxury Caribbean villa you like to keep going back to. There is still a peak season and those times of the year a visit isn’t recommended and we’re taking a closer look here as when the best times to visit are.

The Caribbean season is said to run from mid-December until mid-April which is when the area is at its driest and warmest. In these times you’ll see the highest prices as everyone from America and Canada wants the chance to get a bit of sun when they’re drenched in rain at home.

The off-season on the other hand runs approximately from mid-April to mid-December where you’ll see prices fall and though the climes may not be as inviting they’ll still be much balmier than you’re used to at home and if you’re living it up in luxury villa comfort you may not notice the weather at all anyway!

The main thing to remember when booking a Caribbean holiday is the hurricane season. It’s perfectly possible to book holidays during this time but keep an eye on the forecasts just in case anything appears on the horizon and you’ve got enough time to change your booking. The hurricane season runs from approximately June 1^st to November 30^th and this is the shortest it will be.

You will find drastically different prices in hotels on and off season so this is why villa holidays are always recommended. Yes, prices may differ but not so significantly and you can make savings in other places.

Essential Jamaica: Must Dos on your Jamaica Holiday

Planning a trip to Jamaica may be a once in a lifetime experience so you better be ready for it. Getting the most out of each and every day will be essential to ensure you remember it for a lifetime. Begin by booking into a luxury Jamaican villa rental and plan your itinerary keeping in mind our must dos from below.

Swim with Dolphins

There are plenty of places you can swim with dolphins but a visit to Dolphin Cove in Ocho Rios will stay with you forever. You can enjoy all the fun of the jungle trail and take a dip in the crystal clear waters with the dolphins or even join the stingrays for a slower, more relaxing dip.

Tour the Canopies

See Jamaica from the tops of the trees with a swing through the jungle canopy. Make like a monkey and be amazed by the stunning scenery in both Montega Bay and Ocho Rios. Both places also offer exhilarating quad biking if being up so high isn’t your cup of tea.

Head to Rick’s

Rick’s Café is a Jamaican legend. You can tuck into an infamous Monster Rum Punch and settle down to watch the burning hot sun set in the sky. Before getting too sozzled you could even take a thrilling dive off the cliffs.

Try Scotchie’s Chicken

Scotchie’s Jerk Chicken has been named the best in Jamaica time and again. In the heart of Montego Bay it offers your simple, no-nonsense Jamaica jerk at great prices and with the warm welcome you’ll feel across the isle.

These are our top tips for getting the most out of your Jamaican holiday. Enjoy the scenery, the wildlife and the cuisine.

Experience Amazing Animals in Turks and Caicos

Turks and Caicos are known for their outstanding natural beauty, luxurious resorts and popularity as a honeymoon destination. Look a little closer and you’ll soon see that the beautiful countryside is home to some fascinating wildlife. Venture out of your luxury Caribbean villa and enjoy some naturally beautiful sights and sounds.

Bird Watching

You can bird watch at home that’s true but the salt ponds and marshlands of Turks and Caicos are awash with fascinating species. Look out for both resident and migratory birds including Great Blue Herons and Pelicans. Over 170 species of bird can be found in the Islands and it is home to the rare West Indian Whistling Duck – though you may need a guided tour to pick one out.

The Rock Iguana

You will only ever see the Rock Iguana on the Turks and Caicos archipelago. He’s much rarer than he once was and a completely harmless reptile who can still be spotted occasionally. They’re most famously spotted in Little Water Cay where over 2000 still thrive. As one of a kind it’s a stunning sight to see and you can honestly tell people you’ll never see anything else like them.

Humpback Whale

Whale watching is always a fantastic way to celebrate the scenery of an island whilst hunting a beautiful, elegant sea creature. North Atlantic Humpbacks are seen regularly around the main island of Turk and Salt Cay – mainly between January and April. It’s a key spot on their annual migration for mating and birth. If you book onto a tour you may spot some of these majestic mammals as well as hearing all about their lifespan, history and if you’re lucky you may hear their unique call.

Seeing wildlife in its natural state isn’t something that happens too often these days so grab the opportunity to do so if you visit the Turks and Caicos Islands. 

Hidden Caribbean Gems for your Winter Break

Visiting the Caribbean in the winter is one certain way of getting away from the colder climes in the UK. Choosing the golden sandy beaches of the West Indies is truly going to be a fantastic way of getting away from it all. You can book into one of many luxurious Caribbean villas but once you get there, it’s sometimes nice to see things a little differently. Check out these hidden gems which will make your winter break even more memorable.

Culebra

Culebra is in Puerto Rico and can be reached via a ferry ride of approximately 90 minutes from Fajardo. Culebra is far more rural than its next door neighbour Viegues. You may see all kinds of naturally beautiful sights including wild horses and it’s rumoured to have the best beaches in the world. Expect unrivalled levels of hospitality from the isle’s friendly restaurant owners and bar staff.

Saba

Saba is actually affiliated officially to The Netherlands. It sits to the south of St. Maarten and has just one beach but its quality really is of the highest, stunning quality. The population of the whole area has yet to hit 2000 and you can explore some absolutely awe-inspiring rock formations.

Eleuthera

Situated in The Bahamas, Eluethera offers a truly laid back, slowed down pace of living. Just two miles long you can enjoy the unique pink sandy beaches and jaw dropping cliffs where the oceans meet the rocks. The southernmost point of the island is worth visiting for a truly intimate and secluded beach experience. 

12 Best Kid-Friendly Destinations

When you’re planning on going on a family holiday with children you’ll need to make sure you choose a kid friendly destination otherwise the family holiday you’ve dreamed of could turn into a disaster. Going somewhere where the kids are going to get bored easily will be the wrong choice as the whole holiday will consist of the children moaning and whining to you, and that is enough to ruin anyones holiday.

Choosing a destination which is suitable for kids isn’t hard as there are a lot of family friendly ideas, but here are 12 that I have come across: Colonial Williamsburg, VA, Washington DC, London, Boston, Berlin, Philadelphia, San Francisco, New York City, San Diego, Barcelona, Niagara Falls, and St Augustine. So you have your destinations (to check out why they’re kid-friendly visit here), now there are all the other factors, what are you going to do there? Accommodation? Food, so on and so on. Most of these factors are easily solved but choosing the right accommodation isn’t always easy.

Villas are a very popular choice for family holidays. Firstly, because they are self-catering, meaning that mealtimes and bedtimes can be whenever as you will not be waiting on a certain time to have to go and get meals. Also, you can make the villa feel a bit more like home by bringing along lots of toys and their favourite blankets, making the children feel more comfortable about being somewhere different.

So there you have it, you have a choice of perfect destinations and the right accommodation in order to book your family holiday and know its going to be good!

Where to go on holiday in January?

Going on holiday in January isn’t always the most popular time to go on a holiday, but why shouldn't it be? January is the best time to get yourself a bargain holiday, plus its quiet so if you’re looking to go on a relaxing short getaway just to take some time out January would be the perfect time. These are just a few of the advantages of going on holiday in January, another plus is that the weather isn’t too hot but isn’t cold either making it just right.

Family Holidays in 2014

So it’s nearly 2014, and a lot of families like to plan where they’re going on holiday next year so that they have something to look forward to and to get the best deals! Here the Telegraph have come up with loads of different holiday ideas for any type of family holiday, UK or abroad.

Best Beach Holidays

If you’re going on a family holiday the best type of holiday is definitely a beach holiday as the kids will love splashing about in the sea and making sand castles! Tripadvisor have come up with a list of the best beach holidays, the Caribbean is a very popular destination with its gorgeous beaches and clear seas.

Many people instantly think that going to the Caribbean is going to cost a fortune, however this doesn’t have to be the case. Follow these 4 simple steps and you will have your Caribbean holiday booked in no time… 1. Decide how you want to travel, there are many different ways you can do this. 2. Decide what part of the Caribbean you want to visit. 3. Schedule your trip according to the seasons and when there are carnivals on. 4. Look for a Caribbean package to the countries that speak your language. Being organised will instantly make your life a whole lot easier and allow you to make sure you stick to a fair budget. For further tips on how to go to the Caribbean without having to break the bank visit: http://www.wikihow.com/Find-Cheap-Caribbean-Vacation-Packages

Unusual Attractions in Koh Samui

Visiting the exotic island of Koh Samui is not something you’ll be able to do every year. Therefore you need to make sure you stuff in as much as you can into it. You can enjoy all the mainstream attractions but why not take a look at some of these unusual attractions too.

Hin Ta Hin Yai

The Grandmother and Grandfather rocks may not be for everybody but they’ll give most people a laugh. Massive oversized, natural replications of the nether regions, they’re certainly worth getting your photograph taken next to and showing off in jest for years to come.

Snake Farm

Visiting a snake farm is probably something you never thought you’d do – in fact, most people don’t even know snake farms exist. Samui Snake Farm has the motto ‘look but don’t touch’ and they mean it. These slithery snakes can bite and many of them are venomous. That being said it’s a fantastic experience and there are daily shows and performances where professionals dance and interact with the snakes for your pleasure.

Magic Garden

In the high jungle hills you’ll find a beautiful garden filled with statues and hand-carved treasures. It one of those sights you’re only going to see if you’re a dedicated off-road driver with a hired Jeep on your hands though. It gives you a chance to go deep into the jungle so a local guide is also a good idea.

Samui Rum

Koh Samui is home to a boutique rum distillery. Magic Alambic is a unique rum distillery offering a wide range of gorgeous tropical rums including coconut flavour! There are lots of products to buy which make perfect souvenirs and wonderful keepsakes, as well as tasting wonderful.

It can be tempting to spend your whole Thai break in the comfort of your luxury Koh Samui villa but you’re missing out on many wonderful attractions. Try some of these unusual days out for a great experience day.

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Koh Tao Dive Destinations

If you’re planning a relaxing holiday in Koh Samui then you can mix it up a bit and enjoy something life changing as well as the indulgence of lounging on the beach. Within an hour and twenty minutes of Koh Samui is Koh Tao where there are wonderful sites for divers of all levels and experiences.

Spend a day or two outside your luxury Koh Samui villa and instead take a trip down the coast and enjoy one of these exhilarating dive sites.

Chumporn Pinnacle

Chumporn Pinnacle is only 7 minutes by speedboat from the north of Koh Tao and is considered one of the best dive sites the island has to offer. There are four interconnected underwater pinnacles which take you from 14m below water to 36m below water. It’s designed mainly for experienced divers and there’s the chance to see whale sharks, barracuda, schools of snapper and hundreds of beautiful pink anemones clinging to the pinnacle itself.

Twins

Twins is one of the most popular dive areas and is made up of two submerged pinnacles, hence the name. They can be dived by divers of all experiences as the maximum depth is only 20m. It is home to the clark’s anemones and you might also see stingrays, moray eels and young angelfish as you dive around the Twins.

Mango Bay

Mango Bay is heralded as one of the most beautiful sites to dive. Its bay too is well regarded and it’s the perfect site for complete beginners as well as students. Along the reef you can spot groupers, blue spotted stringrays, angelfish and beautiful butterflyfish. You may even see a seahorse if you’re very lucky.

Diving in Koh Tao is the perfect excursion during your Koh Samui holiday so make sure you give it a go.

Cheapest Tourist Destinations for 2014

Cheapest Tourist Destinations for 2014

Going on a family holiday isn't always the cheapest of holidays, but here are the cheapest tourist destinations for 2014 from Cheap Travel Hunters. 

Cottages in France

Looking for a relaxing holiday or short break but can’t decided where to go or what to do? Then you should try out a cottage in France! Rent a French cottage and spend your holiday sightseeing and enjoying the peace and quiet that is offered in France. There are all different types of cottages available in France, some by the sea offering beautiful sea views, or a range of country cottages for those who enjoy nature and want the perfect quiet getaway; and the best thing about cottages are that they are a great holiday at any time of the year!

Amazing Villas for Rent

If you have never considered a villa for your vacation before then Top Villas is the best place for you, they offer a fantastic choice of luxury villa rentals worldwide. United States, Asia, Caribbean and Europe. Wherever you’re planning to visit Top Villas will have a villa for you! All their properties are hand-picked by themselves to ensure they offer something that will suit everyone; they even offer villas near Disney, and beachfront villas in Barbados!

Make the most of Florida in November

There are many reasons why people head to Florida in November. The thought of enduring a long, hard winter is just one, and contending with the imminent chaos of Christmas is another.

Whatever the excuse, slipping in a quick break to the Sunshine Sate is just the ticket. A relaxing vacation in Florida’s temperate climate is enough to set anyone up for the upcoming months.

DisneyWorld

DisneyWorld is popular. Fact. But there are certain times to visit which are quieter than others. November is a great time to check out Mickey’s Orlando theme park. Lots of festive events are already underway, which means families can enjoy the Christmas magic before the ultra busy holiday period begins.

For instance, Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party starts on 8^th November and ends on 20^th December. The Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights also shines brightly from 8^th November until 5^th January 2014.

Christmas shopping

Whilst in Orlando, a trip to International Drive is a must. Not only does this tourist hotspot have plenty of theme and water parks, but also hundreds of restaurants and shops. In fact it’s the place to head for discounted designer clothing and mountains of Disney must-haves. Visitors will find early Christmas shopping opportunities in the I-Drive’s outlets, including Festival Bay Mall, Orlando Premium Outlets and Pointe Orlando.

Golf

If it’s a relaxing golf break visitors are after, then Florida is also top of the list. With 1,481 golf courses to choose from, novices, families and keen golfers will find their perfect course here. For golf with a beach-side setting, choose Hammock Beach Resort on the Palm Coast. This resort has fantastic facilities and two 18-hole championship golf courses by legendary players Tom Watson and Jack Nicklaus.

Orlando is littered with courses in the surrounding area, at Reunion Resort and at DisneyWorld itself. Yes the theme park has five themed golf courses to play and exclusive villa resort, Reunion, has three 18-hole championship courses designed by Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus and Tom Watson.

Luxury villas

November vacations aren’t all about Florida’s attractions and wonderful leisure activities; the accommodation also plays a big part. That’s why opting for a luxury villa rental is the perfect choice to ensure a fantastic stay. Florida has an impressive choice in all the popular destinations.

Exclusive villa resorts, such as Hammock Beach and Reunion, feature beautiful villas with on-site facilities including water parks with lazy rivers, tennis complexes, fitness centers, spas, walking and biking trails and championship golf courses. Hammock Beach is minutes from the beach and Atlantic coastline, and Reunion is minutes from DisneyWorld and Orlando’s exciting attractions.

Guests enjoy spacious living areas, state of the art kitchens, luxurious bedrooms with en suite facilities and games and cinema rooms. The villas’ beautiful outdoor areas feature private swimming pools, hot tubs and plenty of room for everyone to relax in the endless sunshine.

Book a quick getaway to Florida in November to appease the chill of winter and the chaos of Christmas.

Family Breaks in the UK

Going on holiday in the UK is not only a way to save money on flights but is also a good time to see more of what is your home country, if you’re from the UK. With all the different regions within the UK you’ll never be out of places to visit, but check out this site for all different attractions and places to visit in all the different regions.

First holiday with your baby

Holidays can be a great time to make memories, especially when its your first holiday with your new born baby, a perfect time to make memories. So planning and booking the first holiday can be hard as you want to make it just right, but here are some tips to help you.

10 things you'll need for a family holiday

1. Rain Gear
2. Camera
3. Passports
4. Extra Luggage
5. Cooler
6. Drinks and Snacks
7. First Aid Kits
8. GPS
9. Laptop
10. Different types of money

These may all seem random, however, they are highly vital for a family holiday, to read more click here.

Family Break to Wales

Knowing what to do with the kids on holiday is always a tricky thing to decide because they’re so fussy! However, if you’re planning a family trip to Wales, visitwales.com, have lots of fun things for you to do to keep the kids entertained, they also show where all the beaches are, where to take walks and so much more.

Luxury Villa Rentals

Many peoples family sizes vary usually from around 3+, and catering for different sized families can be hard, but at luxury villa rentals they’ve made it easy! They have family villas to rent in places such as: Orlando, Miami and France which would suit any sized family. They even have villas to sleep 24 or more people!

Family Holiday Guide...

Here is literally everything you need to know about family holidays! With information about whether you should take out a loan just for a family holiday, where to go and much, much more!