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An Insider Guide to Morzine: Where to Ski, Stay and Eat

December 27, 2016 By anthony Leave a Comment

As well as being a popular ski resort, Morzine is a proper little alpine town that has a life that goes far beyond what happens on the slopes. There is so much to this town that you should definitely do your research before you go.

Luckily, in this article I will share with you how you can enjoy the thrilling slopes and the lively après-ski scene all while staying in gorgeous, chic accommodation.

Some Basics About Morzine

Morzine has been winter ski resort since before the first world war, it used to be a place where wealthy guests would go to spend the winter and enjoy skating on the frozen lake and skiing in the rolling pastures. Nowadays, Morzine is considered the capital of the 650km Portes du Soleil, the largest international ski area in Europe.

Where Is It?

Morzine is located in the Haute Savoie region of France. Only an hour away from Geneva airport, it is one of the most accessible ski resorts, especially for Brits!

When’s the Best Time to Ski?

Choosing when to head for the slopes can be a difficult decision. Have no fear, Morzine is as good in summer as it is in winter, so here is a quick break down of what the slopes are like, month by month.

January is a very underrated month; most people have gone back to school and work after the Christmas break so the slopes are almost empty and you don’t need to worry about lift queues. The weather is usually pretty cold, but really, this just makes for the best snow conditions.

February is not such a quiet month, the school holidays in France begin! While those with children will be restricted, it is important to note that accommodation is often booked months in advance.

March is slightly warmer and the sun comes out for longer each day. The snow quality may not be the best but is still a popular month.

April is the snowiest month owing to the spring showers. The weather is great for long and relaxing lunches in the sun and the slopes are fairly quiet. It’s also a great time to grab an end-of-season deal!

May, June, July and August are the summer months, the weather is hotter and the outdoor activities are booming. You might find skiing a bit harder in the summer months!

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September is when the rain starts, the temperature starts to cool down but it is still great for outdoor activities.

Just in case you were thinking of going in October and November, be warned, most places are closed and taking a break in preparation for the winter season. The whole resort will be very quiet, the lifts will be closed and the weather will be getting colder and wetter.

The Best Slopes

No matter what level of skier you are, if you know where to go, the skiing in Morzine is superb. The top of the lift system goes all the way up to 2466m, although as many people know, this isn’t always a guarantee of good conditions.

Intermediate level skiers will love how much they can explore the valleys and slopes while based in Morzine. The variety of choices is huge and ranges from open slopes up high to lovely tree-lined runs lower down. Those more advanced skiers can easily find themselves a challenge nearby with the the Swiss Wall, as well as the steep off-piste descents from Les Haut Forts down to Les Prodains. Last but by no means least, beginners will find themselves well-catered for too by a combination of excellent British ski schools and some fantastic nursery slopes.

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It’s Not All About the Slopes

Although it seems unlikely that you’ll be going on a skiing holiday if you don’t want to ski, it can happen. Maybe you’re going away with friends but are thinking you’ll spend your time enjoying the local life than skiing. Morzine is a great choice for those families and groups where not everyone wants to ski. With a great selection of slopes for the skiers and a huge choice of other activities for everyone else, Morzine has it all.

Some of the other activities that don’t involve you tumbling down a snowy hill include ice skating on a world class ice rink, relaxing in a spa or ice diving in a frozen lake! In the summer months there are activities like mountain biking, paragliding, golfing, fishing and canyoning.

Accommodation

Morzine has a very wide range of accommodation options, and people with every budget and style will be able to find something to suit them. There are three main types of accommodation available in Morzine:

Chalets

The most classic of all the accommodation options, people normally assume chalets are only for large groups, but there are stunning Morzine chalets available for every size of party. Chalet can either come self-catered, which is of course when you purchase all of your own food, or they come with a meal package. You will have your own chalet host, who will prepare meals, drinks and snacks for your party each day. Not only is this a way to get a bit of luxury, it will likely save you money too, as food in the French Alps is notoriously expensive.

A chalet will be the only accommodation option that will give you a log burning fire, which is a quintessential skiing stereotype, but one that people will love to take advantage of. If you want a traditional ski trip accommodation, choose a chalet and enjoy an alpine feel with wood and checked fabrics aplenty.

Apartments

An apartment is a good way to lower costs for smaller parties- though don’t assume ‘apartment’ means an ugly block of flats! Apartments are most frequently self-catering, and tend to be in the centre of Morzine too, so they’re very close to all the amenities.

Hotels

Often a pricier choice, hotels are the option to go for if you don’t want the hassle of doing anything for yourself. You can occasionally find a good deal, but bear in mind there’s nowhere to cook your own meals so you’ll need to rely on pricier resort food during your stay.

Food

There are so many excellent places to eat in Morzine, it’s difficult to highlight just a few.

For cheap and cheerful food, try Mamma’s for main meals, and Le Schuss Creperie for snacks and iconic French crepes. Barbecue is also a firm favourite in Morzine, and places such as La Paika and the Inferno Terrace Restaurant are well loved for their food.

If you’re looking for fine dining, try L’Atelier- it’s achieved a coveted Michelin star and offers both taster menus and delicious meat and fish options.

There’s no shortage of delicious meal options at all prices- so whether you’re on a budget or are ready to splash out, your tummy will be satisfied.

With this guide, you’re ready to take to the slopes of Morzine and have a fabulous ski trip! Whether you’re on a big or small budget, and prefer an adventurous holiday or a quiet one, you’ll love what Morzine has to offer you and your loved ones.

6 Great Reasons for a Break in Algarve

December 24, 2016 By anthony Leave a Comment

If Portugal is not yet in your travel bucket list, things can change after reading this post. The Algarve, to be specific, is one of its best destinations. It has a distinct allure that will make you fall in love, and in the end, question yourself on why you have not visited before.

Great Beaches

One thing that makes Algarve a popular tourist hotspot is the fact that it is beach paradise. If you are craving for sun, sea, and sand, do not go anywhere. Its 100 miles of coastline is home to some of the best beaches that you can find in Europe. More than 150 beaches can be found here. Whether you would like to party or you want an idyllic escape away from the crowd, there is an option that is right for you. There are also lots of outdoor activities that you can try on its beaches.

Family-Friendly

Planning to take the whole family on a holiday? The Algarve is a destination that everyone will love. Both adults and kids are sure to have fun with a wide array of activities that you can try. From relaxing parks to world-class golf courses, this place is wonderful. To top it all, you will also have an endless selection of family friendly hotels. Renting a luxurious villa in the glorious Algarve is the perfect way to enjoy your family holiday.

Sunny Weather

It is frustrating to be in a holiday only to end up being confronted with torrential rain. The good news is that this is something that you do not have to fear when you are in Algarve. This is one place where the sun shines in its full glory almost every day. This makes it a great choice for a winter escape.

Delicious Food

Let’s accept it, food is one thing that we all love. No holiday is complete without sampling some of the best dishes in your destination. In the Algarve, every food lover will surely fall be in paradise. It has a distinct cuisine, making it an ideal choice for a gastronomic feast. There are many restaurants serving great food accompanied by stunning views. There are plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables in the local farmers markets. There are also many wineries that will offer a more sophisticated experience.

It is Safe

If you are searching for a place that you can visit on your own or with your family, make sure to consider the Algarve. It is known for being one of the safest destinations in Europe. Even at night, you can walk along its streets in the absence of fear. It is extremely rare to see reports of crimes. During the summer, which is the busiest season, there could be petty crimes, but as long as you remain vigilant, this should not be a cause of worry.

Golf Courses

This is the perfect choice for anyone who is looking for a top golfing destination. With almost 50 golf courses, and the number keeps on growing, you will be spoiled for choice. Whether you are a novice or a seasoned golfer, there is a place for you. Many of these golf courses offer stunning views, which will be more than enough to make the Algarve a promising destination for a relaxing escape.

5 Places for your 2017 Bucket List

December 24, 2016 By anthony Leave a Comment

If there is one place that you want to visit in 2017, what would it be? If you are finding it hard to decide, keep on reading and be inspired to travel. In any of these destinations, you are bound to have the time of your life.

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Namibia

This is an exotic destination with rugged beauty that is sure to leave any visitor in awe. It is still a relatively quiet country and you do not have to deal with a massive crowd to enjoy its best attractions. It has a beautiful desert, which is also a good place where you can try dune running. The wildlife is also diverse, as well as birdlife. Etosha National Park is one of the places that you should visit to have a close encounter with animals in the wild. Safaris are a great way to see animals in their natural habitats.

The Maldives

If your perfect idea of a holiday involves sun, sea, and sand, the Maldives should be on your bucket list. This is especially if you do not mind splurging on experiences. One of the biggest attractions in Maldives are the resorts themselves. The high-end resorts offer over-water accommodations. You will have your own bungalow that sits atop clear water. You can step out anytime for a dip. In some cases, your bungalow can even have its own pool, as well as round-the-clock butler service. There are also many places in Maldives where you can go diving or snorkelling, providing you with the opportunity to explore its underwater allure.

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The UK

This is one of the quintessential countries in the bucket lists of most people. 2017 is the time to explore the UK. There are many places worth seeing, but if you are short of time, London should not be missed. This is where you can witness the life of the royal family and be up close and personal with some of the most iconic landmarks in the world. For a more relaxing vacation, the Cotswolds will be a good choice. Yorkshire, on the other hand, will be good for a foodie escape. The costal towns of Cornwall and Devon, meanwhile, will be perfect if you love the beach.

Philippines

Gifted with 7,107 islands, there is never a shortage of beauty that you can experience in the Philippines. It is known for the warm hospitality of its people, but even beyond such, you will have endless reasons to pay it a visit. The beaches of Palawan, Boracay and Cebu have been repeatedly recognised as amongst the best in the world. Whether you just want to go sunbathing or you want to try diving, you will have a long list of activities to keep you busy during your trip.

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Cambodia

Angkor Wat is perhaps the most popular attraction in the country. This is part of a temple complex that will require several days for you to explore. Visiting such will remind you of the game Temple Run. Away from Siem Reap, there are also other places that you can visit. If you love the beach, two of the most popular destinations are Sinahoukville and Koh Rong. The latter is a remote island, so expect that developments are at minimum. It is also cheap, which makes it a popular destination for backpackers.

Top three things to see and do in Rome this winter

December 15, 2016 By anthony Leave a Comment

When most people plan a winter getaway, they think of snow-capped mountains and cosy wooden cabins, but city breaks can be just as enjoyable if you know where to go. One of the most popular winter destinations these days is Rome, and with so much on offer, it isn’t hard to see why. We’ve put together our top things to see and do to save you some time when you decide to head there this season.

Visit the attractions it’s famous for

All the locals say that the best time to visit places like the Colosseum, the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill are during the winter months. Why? Because there are nowhere near the number of tourists compared to the rest of the year.

There will be no waiting around in queues or getting frustrated with crowds, so try to take in as many of these sites as possible during your stay. From the Sistine Chapel and the Pantheon, to when you stop for a gelato on the Spanish Steps, you’ll be able to marvel at the beautifully preserved ancient architecture and relics in peace.

Take in an opera

With a city so rich in history and culture, it’s not surprising that one of Rome’s favourite past times is indulging in the art of music. From classical concerts and operas, to elegant ballets, you’ll be able to find a jam-packed schedule of events over the winter season.

Whether you’re heading there for New Year and you want to catch their famous annual concert, or you’re itching to watch an opera to rid you of January blues, just make sure you book your tickets before they all sell out. These are incredibly popular events, so head over to Rome Opera Tickets to reserve your seat.

Write a new recipe book

If you’re a lover of gastronomy whose favourite part about winter is the comfort food, you’ll feel right at home in Rome this season. For one thing, you’ll be surrounded by all the treats that Italy is famous for, including a pizza parlour on every corner, not to mention plenty of gelato vendors. During the winter months though, you’ll find that it’s Panettone and frappe that are the most popular sweet treats around, while you can get delicious hot bowls of Pasta e ceci (pasta and chickpeas) and minestra (vegetable and pasta soup) for lunch.

There will be plenty of food markets for you to make your way around too, where you can pick up cooking tips from the locals. Who could go to one of the most magical cities in the world at Christmastime and not sample the festive fayre, or purchase some souvenirs for the family along the way? Head for Piazza Navona for a real seasonal treat.

When are you heading to Rome? We’d love to hear what you have planned, so don’t forget to share your story by leaving a comment in the section below.

The Top Business Holiday Hotels In Dubai

December 8, 2016 By Admin Leave a Comment

Dubai has become both a business and tourism hub seeing visitors from all over the world flying over to witness the economically dynamic city it has become. From the small local trading city it once was, Dubai has now transformed into a global hub of commerce. This is accompanied along with its magnificent infrastructure and skyline of carefully designed architecture and is home to some of the top places to stay in the world. A city known for professionalism and leading corporate activity, we take a look at some of the best business hotels in Dubai to make your trip all the more impressive.

Jumeirah Emirates Towers

This business hotel is one of the most popular places to stay in Dubai among corporate travellers. The Jumeirah Emirates Tower comprises of high-end technology and unparalleled luxury. There are 400 newly furnished rooms, paired with state-of-the-art business facilities for holding meetings and events. As well as 16 dining and nightlife venues, including world renound restaurants such as The Ivy, Hakkasan and Al Nafoorah. The hotel itself is a highlight of stunning architecture within the city and overlooks the spectacular views of the Dubai skyline. When you fly to Dubai for your next holiday this hotel provides you with everything you could need or want whether your stay is for business or pleasure.

Al Bustan Rotana

The new Al Bustan Rotana Dubai Convention Centre claims to have one of the largest and finest corporate facilities in Dubai. The convention centre has been designed for businesses looking for a professional, luxury, modern meeting and conference venue and contains brand new, high end equipment. Al Bustan Rotana hotel is located in Dubai’s Business Centre and provides efficient services and facilities, including a fully-equipped meeting and seminar room making it the perfect venue for meetings and somewhere to impress future clients.

Grosvenor House

The conference centre at Grosvenor House Hotel combines both business and pleasure in the most simplistic but effective of ways. The hotel boasts a multi-use ballroom, multiple boardrooms and syndicate meeting rooms which can be utilised for a number of seminars, events or casual meetings. All facilities here are equipped with cutting-edge technology. Whatever the nature of the meeting or business event, these second to none corporate facilities are certain to make a lasting impression on all professionals.

Raffles

Raffles Dubai has become the premier venue for exclusive events. Ranging from weddings to travel shows, where some of the best aviation and technology in the industry, such as private jet charters from leading companies are on show as well as corporate and award galas. With nine elegantly furnished private meeting rooms, fully equipped with the latest technology, as well as the luxury Raffles Ballroom lit with Swarovski chandeliers and an outdoor terrace overlooking the Raffles Garden, this hotel is able to host almost every event with any requirement, and can accommodate between 5 to 500 people.

JW Marriott Hotel

A famous hotel worldwide, the JW Marriott Hotel Dubai is known for its award-winning conference facility and modern meeting space. Each conference room has state-of-the-art audio-visual services which can fit up to 1000 guests. The hotel also possess’ elegant ballrooms perfect for conferences, exhibitions, seminars and larger scale events. Business travellers staying in the heart of Dubai at this hotel will enjoy the central location which is also conveniently located near many large corporations.

From just some of these business hotels located in the heart of Dubai, you can see just why the city has become such a successful global corporate hub in recent years. Its spectacular infrastructure makes it the centre of business for all leading industries worldwide.

5 Things To Do Stepping Out Of The Airport

December 8, 2016 By anthony Leave a Comment

Touching down at the airport after a long flight is a relief. There are several important things to do after going through passport control and receiving baggage.

Firstly, check that all important documents and luggage are in place. People can lose passports as they are moving through the airport, and sometimes bags are forgotten about.

Secondly, consult an online map to find the quickest route to the final destination. This will ensure that the place where people are staying can be found and that no-one will get lost. Thirdly, it is a good idea to ring ahead to the final destination (whether that is a hotel or a friend’s house) to let them know that arrival is imminent. Next, if travelling with young children it can be a good idea to find a shop nearby and buy food and water for the little ones because they could be hungry or thirsty after the flight.

Last but not least, people need to be able to quickly and conveniently get hold of a hire car so they can get to their destination. It is important for people to look for ways to save time and money when they rent a car in Perth. Read about how to make this final step incredibly easy.

Book Well In Advance

Flying from one side of the country to the other in order to visit relatively can be an extremely draining experience. People want maximum convenience when they arrive at the airport, so make sure to book Perth airport car hire at www.acerent.com.au well in advance of the trip. This will save people the stress of having to sort out transport when they are at the airport.

Not booking a car can waste lots of time and money when people would much rather be safely at their relative’s house with their feet up.

Booking in advance can also be useful if changes need to be made to the itinerary. For example, someone may fall ill before a trip is due to take place. If this happens, ringing up the car hire company to change or cancel a booking is incredibly simple and won’t take up much time.

Use Cost Comparison Websites

When searching for the best deal on car hire, people shouldn’t just pick the first company they come across. Instead, it is a better idea to use price comparison websites in order to find the perfect deal. The websites will give a full breakdown of the type of rental which is offered. Using these sites is a good way for people to save money for when they are going on holiday – the money can then be spent on other things like delicious food or exciting entertainment options.

Look For Special Offers

Some rental companies will offer special deals, which will potentially save people a large amount of money. These offers will usually appear around the time of special occasions such as Christmas and Easter.

There are lots of websites dedicated to displaying coupons and special offers. Use these websites in order to track down the latest deals and discounts on car hire. Ultimately, the money saved on car hire with these discounts could be spent on presents for relatives.

Hopefully, this guide has given people a good idea of what to do after arriving at the airport.