Romantic Islands

If you are looking for an island getaway consider visiting Corsican Liberty. The island is located off the southeast coast of France and offers cloudless days, an ocean full of marine life to explore, and rugged mountain peaks to enjoy.

Another great island to consider is Maui. In order to enjoy all this Hawaiian island has to offer you need to throw away the guidebooks and take in the glorious beauty all on your own. There are black sand beaches that are unspoiled, nature walks to hold hands-on and enjoy the beauty, and waterfalls at every turn.

Burgh Island Bound in South Devon offers a gleaming white hotel, the Burgh Island Hotel to stay in. This place is right out of a novel offering stunning suites, an art-deco style, as well as generous happy hours.

Fregate Island gives you a chance to forget reality for a while and enjoy each other. The island only allows forty guests at a time. You will enjoy outdoor showers, daybeds, and Jacuzzis. It will just be the two of you enjoying the ocean water lapping against the shores.

Special Spots

Moroccan Moyen Age offers you a chance to explore Morocco in a whole new way. The winding streets and souks are wonderful to explore, and you will soon forget that you are living in the 21^st century. The scents, colours, and sounds of the mosques and cobbled alleyways are simply overwhelming and will set you at peace with yourself and your lover.

New York City

If you are visiting New York City, you may think that there is no place romantic to go. However, you would be wrong. Nestled in the city is the Cantor Roof Garden sitting on top of the Met. This 10000 square foot terrace is decked out with yew trees and wisteria. You can see the entire city from this view, and Central Park has never looked better.

India

Visiting Rule India offers a unique romantic experience like no other. The area is still a citadel and has been since 1156. The townhouses are decorated with latticework that is simply intricate. The royal residences have been converted into hotels and offer the chance to stay in what feels like a living museum. Here, in the air that is dry and dusty time seems to stop.

Italy

Of course, Italy is one of the top romantic places to visit. Positano is a city that was built into the Amalfi coast and is perfect for lovers, water babies, sun slaves, and gastronomes. Make a reservation at one of many waterside restaurants and enjoy the wonderfully romantic views.

Canada

Montreal allows you to make your own history while trekking under the stars through Mount Royal Park. Begin your walk at Beaver Lake and follow along the promenade through the woods. Cuddle with your favourite person at the lookout located at the stately Chalet. The shining lights below will simply leave you breathless.

Belgium

Bruges offers a city that is ripe with every symbol of love. Even the government gets in on the act offering a statue located near city hall that honours the couples who were married there. The city offers wonderfully romantic Gothic Churches and mansions from the 17^th century to visit and pass the days away.

Mosquito Bay

While taking a guided tour on a motorboat does not seem like the most romantic holidays, once you enter Mosquito Bay, which is a lagoon located off Vieques, you will have forgotten that is the case. Millions of microscopic organisms light up the water looking like tiny little stars. The stunning glow of these organisms scatters every time that you make a splash. This is truly something worth seeing during your lifetime.

Iran

While Iran may not make everyone’s list of romantic spots, Shiraz is embedded with centuries of lust for wine and poetry. Take a picnic to Bagh-e-Eram and enjoy the wonderful fragrances of orange blossoms and roses. On Friday follow the Shirazis to the ornate tombs of the revered poets of the country.

Sedona

Sedona offers a desert sky that is bluer than any you have seen. At sunset, you will think that every red rock has a light in it. The scent in the air is junipers, and it is fantastic and relaxing. Even for those that are not new agers, Sedona has a way of awakening life within you and really isn’t that what romance is all about?

Spain

Seville is the capital of Andalusia in Spain and offers a jewel box of Moorish and Christian architecture. Alcazar and the Catedral de Sevilla are the two most brilliant jewels. Explore both places and take a walk through the secret gardens located in Barrio de Santa Cruz. The perfect romantic day can end with watching the sun rise above the Guadalquivir River.

Rome

A Roman holiday is the perfect holiday choice if you are looking for romance. After all, it is clear to see that romance starts with Roman. Relax along the streets of Rome and enjoy the food and the views. Hold hands and walk through the wonderful houses to enjoy all the architecture the city has to offer.

There are so many stunning places to visit, and as long as you have a positive attitude you will be able to make a holiday anywhere into the romantic venture that you are seeking. No matter what types of activities or things that you enjoy, there is a place in this world that will allow you to take a step back and truly enjoy all the wonderful things this world has to offer. When planning your trip make sure that you consider a car hire so that you will have a way to get around.

The first step is to shop around. You want to make sure that you are getting the lowest possible price for the vehicle, and that it is the right model based on size. Here are some tips to make sure that you get the best car for your particular holiday.

The Location

The first point you should consider is the destination to which you are travelling. If you are going to Italy, take the narrow streets into consideration. You do not want to choose a Hummer or large SUV to try to navigate through the notoriously small streets. If you have a big group, consider a minivan or other smaller SUV that your group will fit into. If your travel group is small, a simple two-door car will be the best option.  Choose a car that is going to fit in with the local traffic and road conditions of the place that you are visiting.

Size Matters

As mentioned above, you need to consider the size of the car that you need. While you do not want a large car to travel through a town with narrow streets, if you have a big group, a larger car may be a requirement. However, you may want to hire two cars as it might be more convenient, and the price may not be that different. You are likely going to be spending a good amount of your holiday in the car that you hire so you want to make sure that everyone within the group is comfortable. You not only need to consider the number of people that you will be travelling with, but also the amount of luggage each person will have as well. This is a point that few consider, and what this means is they end up with luggage on their lap, which is not comfortable.

Set a Budget

No matter what your funds are for your holiday, they will run out quickly if you do not set a budget for your transport. If you are travelling with a group set an amount that each person is comfortable to chip in, and that will determine the budget for your holiday car. If the holiday is your honeymoon or a romantic getaway, you do not want to spend all your money on a car. Browse through the Internet and find some of the cheap hire packages that are available. You can then pick the ones that fit into your price range.

However, it is important to make sure that the car that you have chosen will fit your needs. Check and see if mileage and roadside assistance are a part of the package so that you are not paying extra for these things.

Type of Holiday

The final thing to consider is what type of holiday that you are taking. Here are a few tips for different types of activities that you may be getting involved in:

Campers

For most camping holidays, an SUV will be the best choice. This vehicle will offer you enough space for your camping gear and will also allow you to get over rugged terrain. However, if you are a camper who enjoys more conveniences, consider hiring a campervan. Campervans come with a functional kitchen, allowing you to cook your meals. You will also have a lounge area to relax in and a comfortable bed to sleep in. It is a bit like having a little apartment on wheels, but be prepared to pay a bit extra for this luxury.

Speedsters

Some holiday makers like to travel through the country in cars offering the best speeds. They enjoy the thrill of the drive and for these people a sedan or hatchback may not work. Sports cars are perfect for a holiday where you just want to get to your next destination as soon as possible. However, make sure you keep in mind the speed limits. You do not want to be pulled over in a foreign country just because you took things a bit too far.

Rough Terrain

If your holiday is in a place with rough terrain, you will want a vehicle that is going to be able to get through this terrain with ease. A four-wheel drive is the ideal choice for this type of holiday as it will be easier to get through the mud, and the rocks that you may encounter during your trip.

City Trips

When travelling to cities like Milan or Barcelona it is important to choose a car that is going to fit into the city. Take the time to research the city that you are visiting and determine what type of cars that are most popular. You may want to look at street maps and consider any parking issues that you may run into. Larger cities are going to be harder to drive in, but if you take the time to choose your holiday car wisely you should be fine.

Choosing a Car Hire Company

Depending on the type of holiday that you are taking it is possible to choose either a national or international car hire company. At times, the car hire in the country you are visiting may be the best option as the prices should be a bit lower. However, larger companies tend to offer great deals on cars because they can afford to offer less of a mark-up.

Whatever you do, make sure you take the time to consider the type of car that you need for your holiday. Consider the people that you are travelling with as well as any luggage that each of you may have. If you take the time to consider all the things listed above you should be able to choose a car that is right for your holiday without much trouble.

London Architecture

London may be the sixth most expensive city to visit in the world, but viewing the history and the architecture located around the city is mostly free. You can take walks or bike rides throughout the city and enjoy all the stunning buildings that the city has to offer for nothing.

It is also possible to avoid some of the expensive attractions and instead choose cheaper options that are not as widely known. The London Eye is one of the main attractions of the city, but it is quite costly to purchase a ticket. Therefore, why not travel to the top of Primrose Hill, which is located in the North of London. The view from the top of Primrose hill offers one just as amazing as the London Eye, and you can stay as long as you like. If you plan your holiday in advance and check the schedule it is also possible to go to the National Theatre for a free concert as these are offered from time to time.

Visit the Countryside

Leaving London and visiting the countryside offers fantastic potential. Bournemouth is one of the best options available to those looking for a getaway. Bournemouth is a small town on the seaside, and is the perfect place for a break from the city life. This town has been voted as being the happiest place of the United Kingdom for a good reason. If the weather is favourable, you can spend the day at the beach, and it will not cost you anything at all. There are also many gardens and parks for you to explore. Why not take a walk on the pier, as this is a great way to spend an afternoon.

If you are going to travel to the country consider car hire at any London airport. Depending on where you’re going, hiring an economic car can offer you an affordable solution if you intend to travel in the UK.

If you are not afraid of walking, there are many things to do in the British countryside once you arrive. Land’s End offers a site with free admission. There are wonderful views all through the area, including at Lizard’s Point. Lizard’s point is the located on the southern ‘tip’ of Great Britain. Here, you will find a café at the edge of the cliff that will provide you with shelter from the elements. The lighthouse there now operates as a hostel, which offers a great, cheap place to spend the night.  There are also some attractions in the area that do have a fee.

Holiday Parks

Another way to enjoy the UK on a budget is to consider one of the great holiday parks available. Butlins offers a number of different holiday camps in the United Kingdom. There are several family fun activities run by Butlins as well as entertainment, and all of this is included with the price of the holiday, making it the perfect choice for the budget traveller. Redcoats provide you with entertainment, act as hosts, and organise activities for your enjoyment while you are there.

Historical Sites

If you want an affordable trip to one of the historical sites in the United Kingdom consider the Village of Broadway. The village is in Worcestershire and located near the famous tower on Broadway hill. The admission to the tower barely costs anything. However, if you are on an extremely tight budget, you do not have to go in. Spending the day in the park, which costs nothing, will make you feel like you have spent the day travelling through the Victorian Era, you can even take a picnic to save the cost of eating a meal at a restaurant.

Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh is a wonderful place to visit while you are in the United Kingdom, even if you are on a budget. The cost to get into the Edinburgh Castle is roughly £16 per adult. While this may sound like a bit much, it is actually cheaper than the cost to enter most of the other paid for historical sites in Britain. The National Gallery, Museum of Scotland, and St. Gilles Cathedral all offer free admission. You may also take a walk through the beautiful Royal Botanic Garden at absolutely no cost. You can climb Calton Hill if you are looking for a great view of the area. It is a long hike, but the reward is worth it. If you look around in Edinburgh, there are plenty of activities you can do for no cost at all.

London Pass

If you cannot imagine a trip to London and the United Kingdom without seeing some of the main attractions of the city, one of the best ways to save money is to purchase a London Pass. This great pass offers discounts to over sixty of the top art galleries, museums, historic buildings, monuments, and attractions that the city of London has to offer.

The best part of the London pass is that it also offers you the chance to skip the long lines at some of the more popular attractions like the Tower of London, the London Zoo, London Bridge Experience, Kensington Palace and many more as well.

While the United Kingdom is one of the more expensive places in the world, you can make it affordable if you plan your trip. Consider some activities that are off the beaten path mixed in with the popular attractions, and you will find that you can visit the UK on a budget and have a great time.

Comfort is a Priority

If you’re going to be sitting in one place for a long time, then it is important that you are as comfortable as possible. It can spoil what would otherwise have been a great journey if you’re not travelling in comfort, so you should consider the following items:

Several layers of clothing - if you’re too cold or hot, clothing is the best way to change your temperature without having to use the air con or heating. If you have more than one child, they may not agree, and plenty of clothing would give them the ability to gain control over this.

-          Sunglasses/Blind – sightseeing can be wonderful. However, it is not quite so scenic if you’re contesting with the sun for the whole journey. Wearing sunglasses would mean that you could look outside without having to squint, and attaching a sunblind to your window would help to protect everyone in the car.

-          Drinks and snacks - lack of food and dehydration can make everybody irritable; particularly, children. It is a good idea to ensure that you have plenty of water to drink, as this is the best way to hydrate your body. It makes sense to take a cool bag so that your drinks would not heat up if they were in a hot car.

Plan Your Journey

If you’re travelling long distance in a car, you may find that you often have to travel for several hours at a time. In order to make sure that everybody can enjoy the journey, it is vital that you plan your journey to include rest stops.

Before you leave for your holiday, you should take a look at a map of the place to which you are travelling. You should aim to stop at least once an hour, with a proper break of half an hour or more every two hours. For the longer breaks, you should mark service stations on your map, although these will vary in availability depending on the country you are in. For shorter breaks, simply finding somewhere that you can use a toilet is helpful.

Research the Area

When you’re planning the route that you’re going to take, it is important that you get a little information about the things you might be passing on your way. Not only would this be interesting, but it would also mean that you had something to talk about, which might help to take their mind off the travelling.

There is the chance to play games with the information you have learned as well. If you know that there is going to be a church on your journey, then you could challenge the children to try to spot it, with the winner getting a small prize. There are many things that you could ask them to find, and children enjoy games like this, particularly if they are young.

Before you leave home, it may be a good idea to make your children a list of the things that they will be passing on the journey before they reach their destination. You could print out some photos of landmarks for them to spot, and this would help to keep them engaged for the whole journey.

Pack Plenty of Entertainment

This is the most important thing to think about when you’re planning your driving trip, because there will invariably be times when your children are bored and need things to do to pass the time. As a general rule of thumb, it is always a good idea to take too much entertainment than not enough.

Books - before you leave for your holiday, you could make a special trip to the library to get some books for the holiday. Usually, children are only allowed to take out a certain number of books at once on their library card, so it might be a good idea to ration them while you are away; a new book every three days, for example, differing of course depending on how much they were allowed, and how long you were away. If you have older children, there is a chance that they would like to read a travel guide about the country that they are in.

Electronics – most children enjoy playing games when they are at home, and these are great for passing time during the journey. If you are able to do so, it can be a good idea to treat each child to a new game before they leave, as this means that you can be sure that they will have plenty to keep them occupied. You can buy second hand games cheaply, meaning that they would have plenty to choose from. It is a good idea to give your child headphones for their device, as this means that you would not have to listen to endless music and sound effects. You should also make sure that you have packed the correct chargers and spare batteries, as this stops power issues half way through the journey. You may want to consider rechargeable batteries if the journey is a long one. If your child is playing games on a mobile phone, it is important to make sure you have disabled the Internet roaming to avoid the potential of a huge bill.

Puzzle Books – you can buy these very cheaply from supermarkets, and they can keep children and adults alike occupied for a long time. Word searches are a good idea, as this is something that children can do on their own without needing any help. If you have older children, you may wish to purchase a book such as Sudoku or crossword puzzles. If you choose to do this, then you should ensure that you have enough pens and pencils so that these do not run out on the journey. Things like colouring books and dot-to-dot puzzles are also entertaining for younger children.

Audio Books - if you have a mobile phone or an mp3 player, there is a chance that you would be able to install audio books onto your device. This is good for a child, as it is something that they could listen to when you weren’t able to read to them. There are a number of different books available on the internet, meaning that there is no reason that they shouldn’t find something that would suit them.

Camera - before you leave the house, it is a good idea to give each child a photo album. They should be told that this is for their holiday memories, and that they will each be given a disposable camera they will be able to use whenever they like. This would keep them occupied during the journey, as they would be looking for good things that they could take photos with. However, children often get a little carried away with things like this, and they may have finished the entire film before an hour has passed!

Final Words of Wisdom

Ultimately, taking the family on a driving holiday can be one of the most rewarding things you can do for a number of reasons. If you make sure that you have prepared properly, you can have a wonderful time that you will all remember for life. Just a bit of preparation can make a lot of difference to the way that you’re able to enjoy your holiday, and this means that it is definitely worth taking the time to ensure you get it right.

If you are considering a driving holiday, take the time to explore car hire from Any Car Hire. We check all the major car hire companies to ensure you get the best price every time.

The Benefits of Camping

Most children would like nothing more than camping and there are huge benefits to this type of holiday, including:

• It’s very cheap
• You don’t have to stay in one location, particularly if you have hired a car
• It’s safe
• It allows kids to be closer to nature

Two of the greatest countries to go camping in in Europe are Belgium and France.  There are so many campsites here that there is something for everybody and you just know your child is going to have the time of their life.

How to Find a Good Campsite

If you like to be prepared, you may want to go online first and find a campsite.  However, you could just as easily set off in a general direction and see which campsites you do and do not like.  There are a few things to look out for to make sure you find a good campsite, particularly if you are travelling with children and these are:

• The cleanliness of the toilets and shower cubicles
• Whether you have access to electricity
• Whether cars are allowed all over the campsite
• Whether there is a time by which the whole campsite has to be quiet
• Whether there are facilities for children, such as playground, tennis court, swimming pool, table tennis and so on
• Whether there is a store and restaurant on the camping
• How far the campsite is from a main road
• How far the campsite is from any bodies of water

Camping is fun and, in the main, very safe.  However, very often, campsites are placed next to rivers and lakes, which is great if you have older children but if you travel with very young ones, you may want to at least make sure that you pitch away from these bodies of water.  Any campsite that is right on the edge of a main road is also not suitable for young children.One of the greatest things about campsites is that there is a true sense of community.  People look out for each other’s children and belongings and spend time saying hello to each other, perhaps even creating large communal barbeques and so on.  If you go to a campsite where many others with children go to, you will find that the children truly entertain each other.

Examples of Great Campsites

Below are some examples of great campsites in Belgium and France:

Belgium

Camping Petite Suisse, Dochamps.  Five stars.  Features a beautiful view, based on a slight slope.  Camping is themed and includes a legend for easy location of your tent.  Perfectly situated for seeing more of the country and is even open during the winter for winter sport activities.

Camping Spa D’Or, Sart-Lez-Spa.  Four stars.  Recently modernised to include truly luxurious accommodation.  There is a wonderful pool and its close to river, where children can swim or canoe.  It is also very close to the borders of the Netherlands and Germany, offering opportunities for daytrips.

Camping de Chenefleur, Tintihny.  Three stars.  Includes heated pools that children can use, as well as offering fantastic recreational opportunities.  This campsite was designed for families with children.

France

Le Domaine Des Ormes, Brittany. Perfect for lovers of golf and nature, this is France at its very best.  Bring your jeux de boulles, although you can always purchase a set there and join a game of Petangue with the locals.

 
Camping La Garangeoire, Le Vendee.  Truly romantic, as you will camp on the grounds of an ancient chateau.  Includes fantastic swimming pool and other luxury amenities.

 
Camping Sequoia Parc, South West Coast.  Perfect for those who want a little of everything.  True French style living and eating, wonderful sandy beaches and plenty of entertainment, this campsite and the surrounding area offers it all.

Les Gorges Du Chambon, Poitou Charente.  Another campsite on the grounds of an ancient Chateau, this campsite boasts that it is also environmentally friendly, which is great to each the children about the importance of being green.  It offers all the entertainment and activities you could wish for, but in a calm environment where you will mainly learn how to relax.

 
Le Chateau de L’Eperviere, Burgundy.  Again, in true French style, you will be staying on the grounds of a beautiful chateau.  You can go hiking, walking, swimming, canoeing or do anything else you enjoy here, which includes relaxing in the beautiful manicured gardens of the chateau itself.

 
Domaine de la Barbanne, Dordogne.  At this particular campsite, you will truly feel as if you have entered medieval times once again.  The small village is within walking distance, and it will look as if time has stood still over the past five centuries or so.  Anybody who likes history and old buildings will truly have found the perfect spot for a holiday here.  Do not be swayed by the star ratings alone, as even the campsites with almost no stars can be great fun for the entire family.  So long as they are clean and safe, you will have found a perfect holiday destination.

If you have decided to hire a car, you may just choose to drive from Belgium to France, or from France to Belgium, stopping at various campsites along the way.  Car hire in Belgium is available for as little as £5 per day, as is car hire in France.

Precautions to Take when Camping with Kids

Before you go camping, you have to take a few precautions.  Firstly, you must know the layout of your campsite.  It is very easy for kids to start wandering about and they must know their way back, just as you need to know where they are likely to go to.  Camping, particularly in pitched tents, also requires a certain degree of trust.  After all, anybody could get into your tent.

 Although it is rare for something to go wrong, you may want to choose to leave your valuables in a safe or inside your vehicle, just in case. Camping also exposes you to the elements more than any other form of travelling, so make sure you have clothes to cover yourself at night and bring insect repellent. Last but not least, ensure you have a proper conversation with your children about where they can and can’t go unsupervised. Things such as roads and swimming pools, for instance, should be completely off limits without adult supervision.

Driving in France and Monaco

In order to drive in France, you must be at least 18 years old, although you can drive a motorcycle up to 80cc when you are sixteen.  Petrol and diesel is available, however there is no leaded petrol.  Speed limits depend from one place to another and change regularly according to the weather.

The general rules, however, are that vehicles without trailers can drive up to 50 km per hour in built up areas, 90 km per hour outside built up areas, 110 km per hour on an urban motorway and 130 km per hour on a motorway.  The speed limit lowers by 20 km per hour in wet weather.  If you break the speed limit by more than 40 km per hour, your license will be confiscated on the spot.

You must wear your seatbelt in both front and rear seats.  Children under the age of 10 must travel on a child seat and cannot travel in the front.  The permitted blood alcohol level is 0.05%, or 0.02% for coach drivers.  The penalties for breaking these laws are severe and may include a jail sentence.  On the spot fines are also very high and can be issued for various reasons.

One very interesting rule to keep in mind is that you now have to carry a breathalyser with you.  However, there is little clarity about when this will become an enforced rule as it was going to be the 13^th of March 2013, but this has now been postponed.

Some things to know:

• “Priorité a droite” means you have to give way to the right.  Other signs can be “vous n’avez pas la priorité” (you don’t have right of way) and “cédez le passage” (you must give way).  Traffic on a roundabout always has priority, unless otherwise stated.
• You are not allowed to use your horn in built up areas.
• You may not use radar detectors for risk of losing your car.
• Remember that France has many toll roads, where you will have to pay “payage” in order to proceed.  It is often very difficult to get off one of these roads, so make sure you always have some Euros with you.

Why not hire a car if you want to see France and Monaco?

Driving in Belgium

The speed limits are slightly different in Belgium.  Built up areas have a limit of 50 km per hour, outside of these it is 90 km per hour.  Motorways and dual carriage ways have a limit of 120 km per hour.  The minimum speed on these roads is 70 km per hour, unless a traffic jam takes place.

Child restraints have to be in place for children under the age of 18 who are less than 1m 53cm tall.  The permitted level of alcohol in the blood stream is 0.049%.  Fines and rules as a consequence depends on how much above the levels are and how long a license has been held.  There are numerous roads where cruise control is not allowed to be used.  Almost every level crossing in Belgium is equipped with a camera.  If the crossing is crossed on red, an immediate fine will follow.

These are but a few of the rules to follow if you want to hire a car in Belgium.

Driving in Germany

The speed limits in Germany are always interesting, because everybody knows about the autobahns which have no speed limits.  There are some limitation in place, however.  In a built-up area, it is 50 km per hour.  Outside of this, it is 100 km per hour.  On the autobahn, there is no limit, but the recommendation is 130 km per hour.  Cars must be able to drive at least 60 km per hour in order to be permitted on the autobahn.    If it rains or there is poor visibility, the limit is 50 km per hour.

The permitted drug alcohol level is 0.05%.  Fines depend mainly on the age of the driver and the length of time a license has been held.  Interestingly, there are no such things as wheel clamps in Germany.  However, a vehicle can be towed away.

It is not permitted to use spiked tires in Germany.  It is, however, obliged by law to use winter tires during the winter and using summer tires during this period of time can result in immediate fines. Germany is also very green, which means there are numerous emission zones, which means you may have to carry a “vignette” to show in which category your vehicle belongs.

Why not explore a larger part of Germany by hiring a car?

Driving in Greece

The minimum age at which someone can hold a license in Greece is 17. Speed limits are often complicated to understand and depend on the weather, the type of road and whether you are driving a car or other type of vehicle.  There is clear signage, however, so make sure you pay attention. The alcohol percentage here is 0.05%, but for those under the age of 21 or those who have held their license for less than 2 years, the percentage is 0.02%.

Illegal parking is taken very seriously, and your license plate can be removed if you are found to be illegally parked.  You are not allowed to use your horn in cities or towns.

Why not go island hoping in your own vehicle by hiring a car in Greece?

Driving in Spain

Driving in Spain is very similar to other countries.  The alcohol percentage is 0.05%, but drivers under the age of 21 or those who have only held their license for two years have a limit of 0.03%.  Fines are on the spot and vehicles can be clamped or towed at any point.  Just as in Greece, the speed limits can seem confusing, so pay attention to the signs and try to find out what the limits are for your type of vehicle before you go.

Drivers with glasses should carry an extra pair of glasses with them.  You may not sound your horn in built-up areas.  You are not allowed to use spiked tires anywhere in Spain.  There is a very interesting rule for parking in one way streets.  On uneven days of the month, cars should be parked on the uneven numbered side of the street and vice versa on even days.  There should be signs explaining this,  but it may leave you to have to check first the date and then the house numbers before you park up.

You will be able to see much more of mainland Spain if you choose to hire a car.

1.Costa del Sol

One of the most sought after tourist destination in Spain is Costa del Sol. The place offers something for everyone and this makes it a fabulous family attraction. This region became popular in 1950s mainly because of its superb sandy beaches.

Top Beaches

Cabopino, East. Marbella

The Cabopino beach in east Marbella has clean sand and clear waters and stretches over 1200 meters. This is considered as the best beach in Costa del Sol and is extremely popular throughout the summer. On the West there is a nudist beach called Dunas de Artola. The beach is considered as the best kept secret of Costa del Sol. You can also find an old fortified watchtower standing in the sand dunes on the beach. From this watchtower you can view the Marbella coast and the Africa beyond. The sands of the beach are well maintained and clean and the beach in general is child friendly. You can also find beachside bars and restaurants called Chiringitos here.

Tarifa, Cadiz

One of the most beautiful beaches in Costa del Sol is called Punta Paloma near Tarifa on Costa del la Luz. The sand dunes found on the beach are exceptional and it has an unspoilt beauty about it although the beach does not offer the usual Marbella services like toilets, showers and lounge chair rentals. The trek which takes you down the sand dunes is simple but climbing back up may cause problems so those having problems climbing should skip the trip to this beach.You can access the Punta Paloma beach from N340 highway and it is located about 1 hour and 15 minutes away from Marbella.

Las Chapas, East Marbella

Las Chapas is a semi urban beach 750 meters in length and tends to get very crowded during summers. The beach has beautiful sand and clear waters and is situated in Urbanization Las Chapas. There are litter bins available on the beach and it is cleaned regularly. It has spas, footbridges and you can rent yachts, umbrellas and sun beds. You can reach it by using cars or on foot. The beach can be accessed from N340. This zone also has parking facilities. The beach also has a security team which marks the danger if any. This parking is observed and regulated by the security team. There are about 100 parking spaces available.

Apart from these beaches other attractions have come up since then which add value to the destination. You can find exciting night life which might attract the young, beautiful golf courses for everyone and romantic places on the beach for the youth just to name a few.

Night Clubs

Disco Kiu

Disco Kiu is a night club located in Benalmadena and has four dance floors. Different kind of music and atmosphere is offered at these floors such as modern, Latin, Spanish and varied. Thursday and Sunday are nights reserved for ladies and a free first drink is offered to the ladies. The club also holds women’s mud wrestling, striptease shows and a range of prize draws. The night club is open till 1.30 AM at night.

http://www.discotecakiu.com/

Funky Buddha Marbella

The Funky Buddha night club in Marbella is known for glitzy social functions, chic parties and high class clubing. It is one of the finest night clubs in the world with an opulent ambiance that blends antique Hindu/Buddhist statues and Indian/Chinese carvings with high tech lighting. Although the working hours depend on the time of the year the action at Funky Buddha starts at 1 AM at night and continues til around 6-7 AM in morning.

http://www.funkybuddhamarbella.com/

Water Parks

In case you are keen on spending time in water parks you can stay close to Torremolinos which has two of them.

Aqualand Torremolinos

Aqualand is a theme water park in Torremolinos and is close to the town of Torremolinos and Malaga. This is a great place for family and especially kids. The theme park is open in May June and September from 11 AM to 6 PM and in July and August from 10 AM to 7 PM. The entry fee for adults is 25 Euros and for children it is 18 Euros. The senior citizens over the age of 65 are allowed in for 18 Euros. The park offers great rides such as Boomrang, Kamikaze, and Laguna Tropical. You can also find sea lions in the park providing amazing company to the visitors. You should also visit Malaga where the famous Picasso museum is located.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3MHt1fqS4b0

Hotels

The hoteling options in Costa del Sol are affordable and cater to the needs of everyone. You can find a suitable hotel easily depending upon your key interest areas. Actually if you are on an extremely tight budget you can opt for the hotels that are situated a little away from the city center. Some of the better choices are Vincci Posada del Patio or Club Maritimo Sotogrande.

Car Hire

You can also book your vehicle from a car hire company to avoid finding a car on your arrival in Costa del Sol. You can get car hire from £4 per day onwards. Jerez airport is close to Costa del Sol and you will find several car hire companies offering Jerez airport rental cars with many deals, range of models and bonuses. You can compare the deals online before selecting a car hire company.

2.Ibiza

One of the popular tourist attractions in Spain is Ibiza which is truly a place for parties. The place is full of night clubs and bars and the music scene is truly fashionable. The night life you can find in Ibiza is famous all over the world. Some of the better night clubs found here are considered as some of the best in Europe such as Privilege, Space, DC10 and Amnesia. Service available may turn out to be inconsistent but you can ensure good one by following the guidelines on your holiday site. You can also go sightseeing on the island which has several monuments, churches, countryside, caves and a fabulous coastline. You can charter a boat to view the spectacular coastline and even go diving in the warm and clear waters. Water sports can also be enjoyed in the month of May.

Night Clubs

Amnesia

http://www.amnesia.es/

Amnesia offers a truly exemplary clubbing experience and is a source of inspiration for dance music lovers all across the globe. It has two massive rooms and it became famous for open air clubbing in 1980s.

Entry: between €25 and €40

Working hours: 00:00 – 06:00 AM

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zV7fgc71OGc

DC10

http://www.amnesia.es/

This club offers a unique clubbing experience with its no holds barred parties. However it became popular because of quality underground electronic music. It is the only underground club on the island and is famous for afterhour’s parties.

Entry: about €20 or less

Working hours: 12:00 – No one really knows!

Hotels

There are many hotels available in Ibiza some of which are suitable to families some for relaxation and some for clubbers. All the hotels can be booked online with instant confirmation. Some of the good ones are:

Es Vive Ibiza

El Hotel Pacha Ibiza

Car Hire

Car hire is available from £6 per day onwards. All the Ibiza car hire companies have offices in the Ibiza airport. You can arrange the Ibiza airport rental cars in advance through internet.

3.Cadaques

This fishing village in Spain is located on the Northern stretch of Costa Brava and is very close to the French border. The place has remained unspoilt despite a spurt in tourism along the coasts of Spain. It has bright White seafront buildings which have remained unaffected by the modern apartment blocks appearing in the urban areas of Spain. Apart from just a single road leading into the town you can also reach Cadaques through ferries from Roses located nearby. The most noted attraction is the former residence of the famous painter Salvador Dali which has become similar to a museum. You can also go for sailing and diving at Cap de Creus or relax at the beaches sipping onto Sangria. The place is ideal for single travelers or families and can also serve as a romantic getaway.

Beach

The Cadaques beach is a small one with large flat pebbles that are comfortable to lie on. It is backed by church and white washed houses. However what is more enchanting is the approach to the beach. A mountain road weaving its way through olive groves and pine trees takes you up to the Cap de Creus and then a slow decent to the beach. The beach is situated in the natural reserve of gold rock formations and tiny coves. This slightly eerie and spectacular landscape inspired the genius of Salvador Dali whose unbelievable house is also close by.

Hotels

There are some hotels to choose from available at Cadaques. Depending on your main interest in visiting the place you can select the most suitable one. Some of the good ones are:

S Aguarda Hotel

Hotel Rocamar

General hotel info: ‎1800 102 3346‎

Car Hire

You can get many cheap car hire deals in Cadaques. Comparing your car hire deal online is the best thing to do while selecting Spain rental cars from £5/day.

4.Benicassim

Benicassim is a small resort situated on the Costa del Azahar or Orange Blossom Coast. It is popular for the sandy beaches and its world famous music festival that is held each summer. Although this is a small place it can welcome almost 100,000 visitors during the summer. Benicassim is one of the pioneers of Spanish tourism with the first holiday villa ever being built here in 1887. The famous Benicassim festival features indie music performances from all across the globe. You can enjoy the festival in dry conditions without having to worry about rain and the festival is guaranteed to feature some of the top artists in the world. The festival takes place between 5 PM to 8 AM the following morning. A mountain range called Desert de les Palmes rises from inland thereby stopping the north wind.

Hotels

There is some good accommodation available suitable for budget travelers. It is a good idea to book hotels in advance if you are planning to visit Benicassim during the music festival. You can even book hotels for as low as £10 from internet. Some of the resorts close to Benicassim are:

Hotel Bulevard Phone: +34 964 30 05 47

Hotel Rio Mar Phone: 964480745

5.Alicante

One of the popular tourist destinations in Spain is Alicante known for the relaxing atmosphere. You can find structures of historical importance here such as the San Nicolas Cathedral or the Castle of Santa Barbara. The city also houses one of the most significant ports in Spain. For moving around in the city you can use railway or tram as these trips make traveling easier. But, the most popular mode of traveling remains taking a walk around this beautiful city. If you walk around the port it will lead you to Explanada de Espana which is probably the most beautiful promenade in Spain containing 6.5 million stones of marble. The city is also known for its long stretching beaches which are a popular tourist destination during summers when the temperature rises to 30 degrees. They are ideal for a lazy beach afternoon or long evening walks. There are several interesting structures found in Alicante depicting its historical background such as Carbonell building, Alicante City Hall, Plaza de Torros etc.

Hotels

There are many different kinds of hotels found in Alicante and they meet different needs from B&Bs to luxury 5-star accommodation. These hotels provide excellent value for money. Some of the good ones are located near city center such as Plaza Del Ayuntamiento and Rambla de Mendez Nunez.

Alicante Hills Aparthotel:

Rambla de Mendez Nunez: Phone: +34 965 14 45 80

Car Hire

You can hire a car from £6 onwards here in Alicante. Before hiring the Alicante airport rental car you need to know exactly what you need from your car and the car hire company.

Technopolis/Gazi Factory

Technopolis is the area that surrounds what used to be the Gazi Factory and is made up of plenty of industrial buildings. The area is now a museum and has been formed into a cultural centre of the city where several events are hosted. There are often art expositions taking place in the area. This is a great place to visit and learn how a public space has been reinvented.

Vorres Museum

This museum is a set of complex gardens, buildings, and courtyards that cover around 80 acres. There is over 4000 years of history within this area shown by over 6000 items. The museum was donated by the Vorres Family as an artistic and cultural foundation to the state of Greece. This is one place that you do not want to miss when you are visiting the city.

Penteli Monastery

Many people may not realise that after the Byzantine Empire fell, the Turks ruled Greece for 400 years. All the churches were chanced to mosques, and schools were no longer allowed to operate during this time.

The monastery is located on top of the Penteli Mountain. Another place to visit while in this area is the astronomical station. There is also Davelis cave. The mountain is known for its marble production. The marble was used for the Parthenon as well as many other buildings in the area.

Dans le Noir

This restaurant is like none that you have experienced. Your entire dining experience is without light. The room you eat in has absolutely no light and waiters will attend to your needs in the dark as well. The food is amazing, but the experience is what you are there for. If you are ready to be taken out of your comfort zone and are looking for a cool experience, this is the place to visit while in Barcelona.

Mammoth Museum

The Mammoth Museum isn’t your ordinary museum. There are skeletons in this museum that are millions of years old. The best part about visiting this museum is that you are actually allowed to touch the exhibits! You can hold a molar and tusk of a woolly mammoth and even touch the hide of the rhinoceros.

Race a Ferrari

If it is speed that you are looking for, and if you have always dreamed of driving a Ferrari, now is your chance. The Circuit de Cataluña offers driving experiences that allow you to spend the day on a real F1 Grand Prix track. Anyone who is a racing fan simply must include this on their holiday in Barcelona.

There are several other fun things to do in Barcelona as well. The Sub-Zero Beach Bar offers a unique bar experience as everything inside the bar is made of ice. You will want to wear warm clothing and gloves while visiting.