There are suddenly a lot of surveys telling us that next year will be the Year of Albania or the Cape Verde islands will be where it’s at in 2012…
With the greatest respect to Albania and the Cape Verde Islands (or Cape Verred as William Grundy refers to his proposed honeymoon destination on The Archers – see above), I don’t think that either place is likely to set the heather alight next year.
It doesn’t take a genius to figure out that what will do well next summer is value for money: holidays in places that leave you feeling you haven’t been commercially mugged.
Time was when you could toddle off to the likes of France, Spain and Italy confident that you could dine out or buy a glass of wine at prices far cheaper than you would pay at home in the UK.
That seems like a long time ago.
Im not sure if there are hoteliers and restaurateurs on the continent struggling to find ways to cut the cost of overnight stays or evening meals – but a lot of smart thought is being devoted to these matters in the UK.
This month, for example, sees the opening of Z Soho (), a hotel slap-bang in the middle of Londons Soho which offers well appointed rooms from as little as £85 per night.
I stayed there last week, and while the rooms are snug they are certainly excellent value for money (free wi-fi, free Sky movies).
Also just opened in Bristol is Za Za Bazaar (), which claims to be Britain’s largest restaurant. It has space
Seems like you cant open a travel magazine these days without hearing someone paying homage to Charleston, South Carolina. Its no wonderthis historic town on the Atlantic Coast is full of charm, history and food so good that youll happily let your pants out a few inches during your stay. But while there are no end to adult pursuits in Charleston, its also a haven for families. And Charlestons new Explorers Club Passport means that your family can not only scout out some great attractions but collect passport stamps, secret codes and prizes during your stay, too.
Arrrrrrgh, me maties! While there are plenty of nods to pirate culture across the city, kids can enact their favorite Pirate fantasies on board the life-size Pirate Ship model at the Childrens Museum of the Low Country. But while youll spend most of your time at the museum on the ship (trust me on this), there is also a castle, fun arts and crafts activities and a series of golf ball tracks that are sure to enamor. [Note: Make sure to go behind the Pirate Ship for an excellent photo op in the jail cell].