Train travel may be popular for those heading to Christmas markets this winter.

Many travel insurance policyholders look forward to this time of year, when they are gearing up to visit a number of picturesque Christmas markets in various parts of the world.Europe is known for its array of offerings, but this year they are set to be bigger than ever, claims Holidays By Rail general manager Eric Hutchins.He suggests the so-called boomer generation are known for their love of such attractions and their adult children are increasingly joining them to head on a multi-generational holiday.”The spectacle of decorated towns, snow covered streets, twinkling lights and traditional delicious food brings out an unequalled festive spirit of camaraderie and bonhomie,” Mr Hutchins notes.And it is particularly nice to experience such offerings along with family and friends, he continues.Travelling by train can be the perfect way to get around, although this is also suited to many other types of holiday.According to Mr Hutchins, one of the main draws is that it tends to be much less hassle than flying and far more relaxing, as people do not need to join long security lines or other irritating queues.Furthermore, individuals get to explore the countryside from ground level as they travel, making the journey extremely scenic.Some people even decide that they want to visit a certain town or village because they have gained an idea of what it is like thanks to their railway route, Mr Hutchins adds.Those enjoying a staycation in the UK may well wish to travel by train, as there are plenty of Christmas markets in cities such as Lincoln, Manchester and Birmingham to explore.By Dennis Clarke  

With British Airways having been flying direct routes to Buenos Aires since the start of 2011, Argentina has clearly been enjoying a boost in popularity amongst British holidaymakers.

The South American country famed for its juicy steaks, gauchos, fine wines and epic scenery has always been something of an aspirational destination, but the increasing number of travel options is bringing it within reach of more and more Brits looking for a Latin American spark in their holidays.

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It is now only a couple of weeks until the 10 year anniversary of our move to France perhaps the decision we planned to make after two years about whether to stay in France is slightly overdue!

Of course we didnt really know what to expect out of the move or at least we though we knew what to expect but it turned out very different from reality in almost every respect.

In particular of course francethisway.com, which has grown over the last few years from being a fun hobby to occupying most of our time and even paying the occasional bill, was not even a glimmer in our thoughts when we arrived (or until several years later the site is five years old).

Ironically it was at the ferry port when we set off for France that I bought a magazine that explained how to make your own website because I thought it would be fun if people in the UK could follow what we were up to (they thought we were mad although most were too polite to say so).

I dont think I would have bought a similar magazine in France so that casual purchase on the journey here has to take responsibility for much of what happened since who would have guessed!

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Global hotel reservation service released its latest North American Hospitality Review figures yesterday, showing that hotel demand continues to recover, albeit slowly.

Looking at hotel bookings from Sept. 1, 2011 to Aug. 31, 2012, committed occupancy is up 2 percent year-over-year, while average daily rate is up 4.8 percent, and revenue per available room is up a strong 6.1 percent.

Business travel continues to the drive the increasing numbers, according to TravelClick:

“As the late summer leisure travel season comes to a close, it is clear that the business travel segment will resume its role as the primary demand driver for U.S. h

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Add any beverage to our list of foods to avoid before flying. The Independent reports that Michael OLeary, CEO of European discount carrier Ryanair, plans to excise two of the three toilets on his companys planes. The move will allow room for up to six more seats to be installed in lieu of the loos.

OLeary told The Independent that such a change would reduce fares by about 5 percent per ticket. The gigantic downside, of course, is that therell be just a single available restroom on all Ryanair planes (Boeing 737s that carry up to 189 people, according to SeatGuru.com).

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