Millions planning a bank holiday trip this weekend

The final bank holiday weekend of the summer will see millions of Britons taking to the roads from tonight.
Despite a dreary weather forecast, huge numbers will brave traffic jams and roadworks to escape to the country or coast.
Almost 29 million Britons are expected to take a car journey of more than an hour over the long weekend, with one in five travelling for more than four hours.
Seventeen music festivals will add to the congestion. Reading and Leeds festivals are each likely to attract 70,000 music fans while Creamfields in Daresbury, Cheshire, is expected to be attended by 40,000.
Likely congestion hotspots include all the motorways encircling London, the M6 in the Midlands and north-west, the M1 in the East Midlands and the A1 in Yorkshire. Routes to the West Country, Dorset, the Lake District and Blackpool are all expected to be deluged with traffic
Up to 25% of intending travellers will take today off work to avoid the queues.
The RAC said that major routes were likely to start getting particularly busy early this afternoon, with Monday evening and Tuesday morning also expected to be busy.
In London, tube travellers also face disruption, with upgrading work causing a shutdown of the Victoria line on Saturday and Sunday.
Weather forecasters say the weekend will feature outbreaks of rain across much of England and Wales – but slightly drier conditions are expected by the middle of next week.
But with many schools not returning until the week beginning 6 September, the more staggered return should ease the pressure on the roads.
Many people are planning to escape the UK's gloom, with Heathrow set to handle 840,000 passengers. Among the most popular destinations are New York, Dubai, Paris and Dublin.
About 285,000 travellers are expected to pass through Manchester airport during the same period.
Wherever you travel buy the best travel insurance

Holiday Checklist

• Prescription drugs packed in original containers (and a photocopy of your prescription)
• Photocopies of your important travel documentation (example: passport) stored in a separate location from the originals
• List of important phone numbers you might need in case of an emergency
• Travel health insurance
• Translation/phrase book if traveling to a country with a language different from yours - or a multi-language electronic translator
• Shortwave AM/FM travel radio if traveling off the beaten track
• Vitamins
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Sunglasses
• Sun hat
• Sunscreen
• Natural insect repellent and anti-itch remedies
• Earplugs
• Natural sleep aid products
• Inflatable pillow (handy for train, bus or car travel)
• Camera
• Film (if not taking a digital camera)
• Pen and paper
• Wipes
• Guidebook(s) or city maps for your destination
• Book(s) for pleasure reading or audio books
• First aid supplies or mini first aid kit (should include tea tree oil or anitbotic ointment, plasters, etc.)
• Bathing suit (plus an extra one if you'll be swimming more than once a day)
• Beach coverup or sarong
• Waterproof tote sack
• Moneybelt/pouch
• Plastic bags
• Toiletry bag (with your essential toiletries)
• Small locks for luggage
• Travel umbrella
• Travel raincoat or poncho for men or women's rainwear
• Compact travel binoculars
• Small flashlight using AA batteries
• Shortwave radio
• Travel clock with alarm
• Travellers cheques

Last but not least buy travel insurance

Top Ten places to Rock Climb in the world

1 Meteora, Greece
The name of this elevated region sums up to “suspended rock”. Located between the Peneios River and Pindus Mountains, these monasteries have a spectacular series of natural sandstone rock pillars in their background.
2 Dead Horse Point
You must have seen this magnificent rocky peak in the opening scene of the movie Mission Impossible where Tom Cruise is shown climbing it. Situated next to the Colorado River this mountain has some of the most interesting topographical features.
3 Spider Rock
This is an amazing tall red sandstone monolith found in the National Park of Arizona. It derives its name from the Navajo legend of the Spider Woman who supposedly made it her home. She is given the position of a savior and revered by the Dine as a deity.
4 Shiprock New Mexico
Shiprock was formed by a volcanic eruption that dates back to 30 million years and now remains as a matchless basalt exhibit of the central feeder pipe of a volcano. Rock climbers making it to the top can see a series of volcanic vents and small pinnacles specking the main peak.
5 Las Torres de Vajolet, Italian Alps
It is best not to judge this peak by its gross photographs but to see it yourself to dispel all doubts about its beauty. The Delago arête route remains the most convenient climbing route to score this mountain.
6 El Capitan, Yosemite National Park California
Situated in the northern side of Yosemite National Park, this 900 m granite monolith has baffled cliff climbers of the world. Its altitude is not as challenging as is its vertical ascent. It is said that the constituting granite of this cliff is over 100 million years old and has almost no joints
7 Mount Roraima
It is situated in the Canaima National Park of Venezuela and is one of the most ancient geological formations you will find. Sir Everard im Thurn was the first to climb this steep plateau in 1884.
8 Bugaboo Spire, Columbia-Kootenay, Canada
This is one of the famous Alpine rock climbing spots of Canada. The word Bugaboo means ‘an object of obsessive, usually exaggerated fear or anxiety.
9 Las Torres, Patagnia
You will find the Torres del Paine National Park of Chile full of the natural wonders like mountains, glaciers, rivers and lakes that makes it a spot of tourist interest. The climbers certainly enjoy the sight of the myriad interlacing valleys that separate the various granite spires and mountains of the massif.
10 Nameless Tower
This is the other name of the majestic Trango Towers located on the Baltoro Glacier in Baltistan, Northern Pakistan. Its large size and vast ridgeline expanding up to 1000 m has fascinated rock climbers over years.

If you are climbing any of these fabulous mountains, remember to buy activity travel insurance.

Ten ways to reduce the weight of your backpack

1. Look at your current items
Write down what you have and the corresponding weight. You need to weigh your gear to find the actual weight. You may find that the actual weight is not the same as what the manufacturer states. This will help you calculate the weight cost of your gear selection.
2. The minimalist approach
Luxuries are allowed but don't carry unnecessary stuff that you will never use which are not related to safety. Books, camping mats, fishing poles, binoculars and camping chairs are some of the popular luxury items backpackers frequently carry. Use lighter alternatives if you can or go without them.
3. Base your gear on the season and weather
A zero degree sleeping bag won't be suitable in the summer. Carefully choose clothing, shelter, and sleeping bag that are appropriate for the season.
4. Buy lightweight equipment
Lighter alternatives are usually available as long as you can afford them. Put priority in finding lighter alternatives for your sleeping bag, backpack and tent. When choosing an ultralight backpack, make sure it can handle the whole weight of your gear.
5. Find items that have multiple uses.
Your overall gear should be able to work together. Multi-functional gear and the ability to recognize the synergistic relationships between your gear is one of the key skills to reduce your pack weight. For example, a poncho can be used as a shelter as well as raingear.
6. Choose sleeping bags and jackets made of down insulation.
For the same amount of warmth, down is far lighter than the best synthetics. The main disadvantage with down is that you need to be careful not to get it wet because they don't provide insulation when they do. Using down sleeping bags can save you up to 2.5 pounds compared to synthetic alternatives.
7. Windbreaker as an alternative to heavy coats
Windbreakers weigh less than 3 ounces. Wearing a windbreaker allows you to comfortably wear base layers underneath providing you withimproved warmth and comfort. This bottom line is that a windbreaker extends the comfort range of your clothing system.
8. Sharing your camping gear
If you hike with a friend are many things you can share to reduce your overall pack weight. There are also other things you can share in a group that can keep the groups overall pack weight down.
9. Improve your outdoor skills
If you have good outdoor skills you can get by easily with minimal camping gear. Acquiring outdoor skills can help you to comfortably reduce the weight of your safety kit, food, clothing and other gear. You can also attend backpacking clinics, survival programs and first aid courses to aid you.
10. Go travel-size
Travel-sized versions of soap, shampoo, deodorant, etc are lighter and smaller than full-sized versions. If you can't find these smaller-sized versions or refuse to buy them, transfer everything into smaller packages.

Also purchase backpacking travel insurance

Top Ten white water rafting rivers

1 Alsek and Tatshenshini Rivers, Alaska/Canada
Glaciers and icebergs are among the attractions on these two rivers flowing through an astonishing northern wilderness of mountains and tundra on the borders of Alaska and Canada. As well as superb white water, the trip offers you an unforgettable experience of wildlife, from grizzlies and moose to spawning salmon and luscious blueberries.
2 Magpie River, Canada
A float plane takes you to Magpie Lake, the start of this eight-day trip through the remote pine forests of eastern Quebec province. Your first rapids come as you leave the lake for the Magpie River, and from then on they grow in difficulty until you reach the challenge of Class V rapids downriver from the spectacular Magpie Falls. You camp at night on river islands, and to the north you see the pulsating glory of the aurora borealis
3 Middle Fork, Salmon River, Idaho
This is one of the world’s most popular whitewater rivers, with everything to offer you—rapids up to Class IV and glorious alpine and forest scenery as it flows through America’s largest roadless wilderness area outside Alaska. Wildlife can include the enchanting sight of a mother bear swimming across the river with her cubs.
4 Río Upano, Ecuador
Around you spreads rain forest, where toucans and iridescent butterflies flit from tree to tree. You glimpse a palm-thatched village of the local Shuar people and may stop to visit it. Starting in the remote town of Macas on the far western fringes of the Amazon Basin, you embark on a journey where the pace varies from gentle rapids to tumultuous rides through narrow canyons. The highlight is the Namangosa Gorge, with Class IV rapids and the sight of countless waterfalls plunging down the gorge’s sides.
5 North Johnstone River, Australia
This stunning trip in the tropical far north of Queensland offers Class IV and V white water amidst volcanic gorges and the ancient rain forests of Palmerston National Park. At night luminous fungi glow surreally on the rocks and fireflies dance shimmering arabesques through the forest canopy. A bonus thrill is the helicopter ride taking you to the start of the course, which is accessible only by air.
6 Sun Kosi River, Nepal
Rising near the border with Tibet, among the world’s highest peaks, the Sun Kosi offers a trip of Himalayan majesty on its way to join the Ganges on the plains below. Class V rapids abound as it thunders through narrow gorges and forested canyons. The final stretch takes you through dense tropical jungle where monkeys chatter from the trees.
7 Sun Kosi River, Nepal
Rising near the border with Tibet, among the world’s highest peaks, the Sun Kosi offers a trip of Himalayan majesty on its way to join the Ganges on the plains below. Class V rapids abound as it thunders through narrow gorges and forested canyons. The final stretch takes you through dense tropical jungle where monkeys chatter from the trees.
8 Çoruh River, Turkey
The Çoruh is one of the world’s fastest-flowing rivers, cutting through breathtaking gorges in the remote and dramatically beautiful Kaçkar Mountains of far northeastern Turkey. Wildlife abounds, from bears to mountain goats to wild boar—as well as fascinating historical ruins, including castles dating from the time of the Byzantine Empire.
9 Noce River, Italy
Fed by melting Alpine glaciers, the Noce tumbles through the wild, remote Val di Sole (Sun Valley) in the Dolomites of northern Italy. It offers some of the most exciting whitewater rafting in Europe, including a spectacular series of Class V rapids as it roars through the gorges of Mostizzolo
10 Zambezi River, Zimbabwe/Zambia
The Batoka Gorge, where the Zambezi boils and churns its way over 23 rapids in a 15-mile (24-kilometer) stretch below the Victoria Falls, gives Africa’s most thrilling whitewater experience against one of the most dramatic river backdrops in the world.

For all holiday sporting activities buy activity travel insurance

Have you had the appropriate vaccinations for your holiday

Have you had the appropriate vaccinations for your holiday
Whether you are going somewhere far-flung and exotic or on a budget break in Europe, it’s vital that you protect yourself and your family by getting the required jabs.

Cuba
Get vaccinated against:
Typhoid - 10 days before travel
Hepatitis A - 2 weeks before travel
You may need to be vaccinated against:
Hepatitis B - two months before travel
Diphtheria - three months before travel
Tuberculosis - three months before travel
Rabies - one month before travel

The Bahamas
Get vaccinated against:
Hepatitis A - two weeks before travel
You may need to be vaccinated against:
Typhoid - 10 days before travel
Hepatitis A - two weeks before travel
Diphtheria - three months before travel
Tuberculosis - three months before travel
Hepatitis B - two months before travel

Ibiza
You may need to be vaccinated against:
Hepatitis A - two weeks before travel

Corfu
You may need to be vaccinated against:
Hepatitis A - two weeks before travel

Australia
You may need to be vaccinated against:
Yellow Fever - Certificate of vaccination may be required 10 days before travel
Japanese B encephalitis - Vaccination sometimes recommended 1 month before travel

Thailand
Get vaccinated against:
Typhoid - 10 days before travel
Hepatitis A - two weeks before travel
Diphtheria - three months before travel
It is also sometimes recommended that you get vaccinated against:
Tuberculosis - three months before travel
Hepatitis B - two months before travel
Rabies - one month before travel
Yellow Fever - certificate of vaccination may be required
Japanese B encephalitis - one month before travel

India
Get vaccinated against:
Typhoid - 10 days before travel
Hepatitis A - two weeks before travel
Diphtheria - three months before travel
It is also sometimes recommended that you get vaccinated against:
Tuberculosis - three months before travel
Hepatitis B - two months before travel
Rabies - one month before travel
Yellow Fever - certificate of vaccination may be required
Japanese B encephalitis - one month before travel

China
Get vaccinated against:
Typhoid - 10 days before travel
Hepatitis A - two weeks before travel
Diphtheria - three months before travel
It is also sometimes recommended that you get vaccinated against:
Tuberculosis - three months before travel
Hepatitis B - two months before travel
Rabies - one month before travel
Yellow Fever - 10 days before travel
Japanese B encephalitis

Remember the chances of catching these diseases are usually low as long as all the precautionary methods are taken, but you may want to know what these jabs are actually protecting you against.

Typhoid Fever is a rare but life-threatening illness.
Yellow Fever is a viral disease.
Hepatitis is liver inflammation.
Diphtheria is an upper respiratory tract illness causing fever.
Tuberculosis is a bacterial infection affecting primarily the lungs.
Rabies is a disease of the nervous system which can be fatal.
Meningococcal meningitis is an infection of fluid surrounding the brain and the spinal cord.

As well as making sure you have the relevant vaccinations for the countries you are travelling to, remember to buy the best travel insurance

Top Ten Cruise Destinations

10 Panama Canal
See the Panama Canal on a fantastic Panama Canal cruise. Completed in 1914 and connecting the Pacific’s pulsating cities of Mexico and America to the Atlantic, is a narrow stretch of engineering mastery. The 80 kilometre journey along the canal is an unforgettable experience
9 Aruba
White sandy beaches and cobalt blue waters, tall coconut palms, constant 14-20 mph tradewinds, an average year-round high temperature in the mid-80s with lows in the 70s, and a location outside of the hurricane belt--all combine to make the southern Caribbean island of Aruba a favorite port of call. An autonomous member of the Kingdom of the Netherlands with its own democratic government, the island is nearly 20 miles long and almost 6 miles wide. The mountains of Venezuela, only 15 miles off the coast, can be seen on clear days.
8 Hong kong
It is positioned centrally on the cruise map of Asia and acts as a gateway to other cruise destinations in China, Korea, Japan, Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore and the Philippines. Situated at the tip of China, Hong Kong has a sub tropical climate with November and December being great months to travel as during this time there is usually plenty of sunshine and warm temperatures
7 Norway
Along the West coast, deep Fjords knife into steep mountain ranges with the stillness only broken by waterfalls. In older villages wooden houses spill down towards docks where Viking long ships and later, whaling vessels, were once moored.
6 Cayman Islands
Cruise ships enter the George Town Port on Grand Cayman, and may stay there for a very short time depending on the particular cruise. Shopping is one of the most popular activities for cruise passengers in the Cayman Islands. Many fine imported goods are available near the port.
5 New Zealand/Australia
Australia and New Zealand provide some of the world's most unique and beautiful landscapes. Add this beauty to bustling cosmopolitan cities like Sydney and Auckland and you have a vacation to remember. The Opera House and the world class wineries bring an air of sophistication contrasting with the rugged outback and wildlife. With a variety of activities and sights to see, you will never be at a loss for experiences and memories in these destinations. Visit the cosmopolitan city of Sydney, visit Ayres Rock and watch the sunset over the desert. You can swim in the the Great Barrier Reef or take a trip into the rainforest. See the steaming geysers at Rototua in New Zealand or take it easy in the Bay of Islands.
4 Alaska
South East Alaska is a big part of why this state is known as the "Great Land." Fjords, waterfalls, glaciers, and snow-capped peaks make up the surroundings.
3 French Riviera
The French Riviera refers to the area of the Alpes Maritimes and the Principality of Monaco. It is located in the extreme south-east of France extending westwards from the Italian border 120km to just beyond Cannes and 90kms northwards to the Southern Alps
2 Virgin Islands
There is nowhere better than the Virgin Islands in the Caribbean: it is one of the finest and safest sailing areas in the world. The British Virgin Islands are a group of small and mostly uninhabited. The waters are superb for swimming, snorkelling, diving, yacht and sailing. Most of the islands have a volcanic origin which gives character to the terrain.
1 Barbados
When it comes to natural beauty, attractions, and especially its seemingly endless stretches sandy beaches, among the best in the entire Caribbean, no port of call in the southern Caribbean can compete with Barbados. The island, the most easterly . Stretching about 35 miles north to south and 15 miles east to west, you will find rolling hills and a rough and rugged Atlantic shoreline and flat sugar cane fields and a beautiful calm Atlantic shoreline. Most of the population lives near Bridgetown and on the west coast near to the tourist industry hotels that dot the west shore

Make sure you purchase Cruise travel insurance before visiting any of these wonderful areas of the world

Top Ten Backpacking Items

If you are backpacking this Year, here are the top ten must have items:

1 Map.

2 Swiss army knife

3 First aid kit and med­i­cines

4 Money belt

5 Compass

6 A rain cover for your back­pack

7 A small flash­light

8 A few plas­tic bags

9 Water Proof matches

10 Water/filter/bottles


Click here for Backpacking travel insurance

Top Ten Scuba Diving Destinations

Here are the top ten scuba diving destinations in the world:

1 Mexico - Cozumel
The Island of Cozumel, off the Mayan coast, is surrounded by gorgeous reefs and pristine clear water; perfect for scuba diving. On a good day visibility can be up to 200 feet. Gentle currents running parallel to the reef are a drift diver's dream. There are 19 popular scuba diving reef areas, including dramatic swim-throughs teeming with marine life. Cozumel is very friendly for the foreign tourist it has affordable accommodation and buzzing night life. Cave divers will enjoy a trip to the mainland to scuba dive the cenotes freshwater caves. There are dozens of excellent dive shops to choose from in the main town of San Miguel.

2 Fiji Islands - South Pacific
Fiji offers an incredible scuba diving experience. It is the Soft Coral Capital of the World, the home of the Great White Wall, the Yellow Tunnel and other famous underwater marvels, scuba diving conditions and visibility are unrivalled year-round. Because of its clear water and dazzling coral Fiji is a favorite hangout for professional underwater photographers.

3 Cayman Islands - Grand Cayman
Visibility averages 80 feet to 150 feet in this tropical paradise revered by scuba diving enthusiasts. Rising like a mountain plateau in the Caribbean, the Grand Cayman's shallow reefs provide maximum downtime, next to massive drop-offs in the surrounding 12,000 foot abyss.

4 USA - Florida
Florida offers the best scuba diving opportunities on the North American continent. Dive shops proliferate along the entire Gulf coast and Atlantic coast and within a short boat ride of the nearest beach you will be submerged alongside giant turtles, manatees, sharks, tropical fish, rays and dolphins. For ease of travel (especially for U.S. citizens) Florida is a perfect vacation destination for scuba divers. The convenience and economy of Florida travel is often the deciding factor in choosing Florida for scuba diving. The Gulf coast generally has better visibility, the Atlantic Coast has a wealth of reefs and wrecks and the Florida Keys offer beautiful warm water and tropical fish.

5 Belize
Boasting some of the world's best preserved marine ecosystems, but undiscovered by excessive tourism, Belize is a natural destination for scuba divers. Visibility can be poor except along the leeside of atolls where it can reach 100 feet. The Belize Barrier Reef offers a stunning variety of marine life.

6 Australia - The Great Barrier Reef
Heron Island is literally a coral island rising above the famous Great Barrier Reef. With excellent scuba diving, just steps from the shore, you can strap on a snorkel and stay under 20 feet for hours on a scuba tank. Heron is a quiet island, devoid of industry or day trippers, which is ideal for the scuba diver who wants to bask in a relaxed casual lifestyle during surface intervals.

7 Vanuatu
East of Australia, suspended between New Zealand and Southeast Asia, Vanuatu is prized by scuba divers primarily for its incredible diversity. Amid clear warm water and abundant marine life scuba divers can experience caves, swim-through, walls, lava towers, fantastically elaborate wrecks, coral mazes, grottoes and overhangs, plus more.

8 Turks and Caico's - Grand Turk
Located along the southern tip of the Bahamas, Grand Turk stays sheltered from heavy currents and visibility is excellent year-round for scuba diving. Grand Turk is a summer gathering place for gentle manta rays and inquisitive scuba divers. Grand Turk is surrounded by walls covered in sponges and corals starting at 25 feet and rising to 30 feet and plunging 7000 feet straight down.


9 Hawaii
Scuba diving in Hawaii is big. Giant sea turtles, enormous stingrays, sharks and whales gather near Hawaii to live in its fertile volcanic ecosystem. Though lacking the clear visibility of a sheltered island, Hawaii makes up for clarity with grandeur. Frothing with tourism, and the many dive shops to choose from, Hawaii makes scuba diving fun and adventurous.

10 Thailand - Koh Tao Island
Koh Tao in the Gulf of Thailand is a tourist-friendly resort island that caters especially to scuba divers. Surrounded on all sides by colorful reefs the island is also well known for opportunities for close-encounters with elusive Whale sharks and Grey Reef Sharks. The scuba diving is excellent, but despite desperate marine conservation efforts shark hunting is offered as a tourist diversion and many people travel to Koh Tao just to kill the local fauna.

Buy the best activity travel insurance

Top Ten locations to Bungy Jump in the world

1.Royal Gorge Suspension Bridge, Canon City, Colorado
The highest suspension bridge in the world is 321m above the Arkansas River. Bungee jumping from the bridge takes place during the Go Fast Games once a year, making advance booking a necessity. Adding to the dizzying effects of the height is the walk across the wooden boards to the jump site; looking straight down through the gaps you can see the river below. Take in the majestic view of the canyon walls, the distant river and the trains passing below before leaping into the air.
2.Nevis Highwire Bungee, Queenstown, New Zealand
Set between two hills and suspended on steel cables, the jump pod can only be reached by cable car. The drop looks much further than 134m when viewed through the car’s glass floor. Take a minute to enjoy the scenery while your safety equipment is checked. The canyon you are about to jump into is wide at its top but narrows dramatically. There is also plenty of time to enjoy the scenery on the way back up too.
3.Colorado River Bridge, Costa Rica
A tropical rainforest with lush green vegetation as far as the eye can see, this is one of the most beautiful bungee locations. The bridge is 81m high and has been closed to traffic for many years. As you stand at the edge of the bridge, heart-in-mouth, waiting to jump, you get to really appreciate the majestic nature of the rainforest. The site is a real must for adrenalin lovers, as once you have completed your jump you can try also rock climbing as well as paragliding.
4.Verzasca Dam, Val Verzasca, Switzerland
The dam is 220m high with the huge Lake Vogorno as its backdrop. Since James Bond was filmed jumping here for the film ‘Golden Eye’, this has become one of the most popular bungee destinations. Now you too can be an undercover agent – if just for a few seconds. Courage and determination are needed for this one, as well as real faith in your equipment – beginners should think twice.
5. Volcano Bungee, Pucon, Chile
Not for the faint hearted, this jump involves leaping from a helicopter into an active volcano. The jump itself is about 106m (350ft) from the helicopter to the furthest reach of the cord. Be prepared to feel the heat, as you come within 200m of molten lava. The excitement doesn’t end there: You then dangle from the cord beneath the helicopter as it returns to base, over 35 miles away. Jump and ride.
6.Blue Thunder Bungee, Centre of Gravity, Edmonton, Alberta
Located at a the World Water Park in the West Edmonton shopping mall and at 32m above the wave machine, this is the highest indoor bungee in the world. Once you have committed to jump, you then get to select a full or ankle harness and can also opt for a full body dip in the pool’s 1.8m of water. With shoppers stopping to look through huge glass windows and swimmers in the neighbouring pools, this must be one of the most intimidating bungee audiences
7.Bloukrans Bridge, South Africa
Bloukrans Bridge is a single-span arch in the Western Cape above the Bloukrans River. As part of the Tsitsikamma national park it guarantees fantastic views. You can walk under the road to the top of the arch or use the Flying Fox, a zip wire, which will deliver you at speed to the jump site. After the countdown the jump of 216m (710ft) is smooth, as it utilises pendulum technology. After conquering your fear of heights, perhaps enjoy the rest of the Garden Route from the water in canoes, or take a walk into the mountains.
8.Ledge Urban Bungee, Queenstown, New Zealand
Imagine the fear moments before a jump, now imagine taking a running jump: the Ledge Urban Bungee takes you to this place. A runway leads to the edge, allowing jumpers to run, then leap out into the sky above Queenstown . If that isn’t terrifying enough, do it at night with the town’s lights twinking 400m below.
9.Bhote Kosi River, Himalayas, Nepal
A steel suspension bridge connects two sides of a valley through which the Bhote Kosi River races. Here, freefalling for 160m is an exhilarating experience, made more intense by the view across the Himalayas. To keep the adrenalin pumping and see the river from a different angle, why not later raft its white-water rapids.
10.Victoria Falls Bridge, Zimbabwe/ Zambia
On the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia, Victoria Falls is a spectacular sight, and stretches more than 1.6km . The bridge is roughly 152m above the Zambezi River and commands an awe-inspiring view. Plummeting towards the fast-flowing water, you soon appreciate the expertise of the safety crew and their equipment. A crew member retrieves you after the jump, then you are winched back up – all the while probably asking for another go.

Buy the best Activity travel insurance go to http://www.holidaysafe.co.uk/travel-insurance/activity-travel-insurance.html

source: adventureholidays.com

Workers wanted in OZ

The South Australian government is attempting to lure what it says are Britons stressed out by the UK's work culture. Officials said the new jobs will help those aged 18 to 30 achieve the "ultimate work-life balance". If you Fancy being a shark personality profiler, a Koala catcher or a "roo poo" harvester Australia may be for you. Other jobs on offer include a Fairy Penguin home remodeller on Kangaroo Island, a shark personality profiler at Port Lincoln, and a beer taster a shark tagger, mining engineers, farmers, A green keeper and a beach babes judge! If any of these jobs take your appeal to you, apply for a working holiday visa and and fly to South Australia.
Travellers who want to work have an option. Take the usual trail, do the usual jobs, or go for something that you can't get anywhere else in the world and have an experience you'll be dining out on for years, the sort of experience you'll be telling your grand-kids about." The South Australian government has commissioned research that claims some 60% of British workers are bored with their jobs with Wrexham and Coventry listed as the worst places to work, This is the first time these jobs have collectively been released and with no previous experience necessary.

Buy the best Longstay and backpacking travel insurance.

Briton completes two year trek along the Amazon.

Ed Stafford a former army captain, completed a record breaking trek along the path of the Amazon, He trekked 4,000 miles and has believed to have suffered 50,000 mosquito bites, hundreds of wasp stings and had many sticky moments with anacondas and scorpion's.
He has become the first man to walk the entire length of the world's longest river, his journey started in Peru 859 days ago on 02 April 2008, five months later he was joined by Gadiel Sanchez Rivera, who was a Peruvian forestry worker.
They survived on Rice and beans, and the occasional Pirhana they caught.Throughout their journey Ed had posted video clips and regularly posted blogs, His last entry stating he only had 50 miles to go,despite passing out the previous day while walking.
When they finally reached the Atlantic Ocean in Northern Brazil they sprinted into the sea.
His aim was to raise awareness of the destruction of the rain forest, but his main reason was "because no-one had ever done it before".
During their two Year trek, they were imprisoned, chased by bow and arrow wielding locals and twice wrongly accused of murder.

If you travel more than once a year buy annual travel insurance at http://www.holidaysafe.co.uk/

US to charge £ 9 for Esta compulsary travel entry form

Around 4 million Britain's visit the US each year, from 9 September 2010 UK travellers visiting the US will have to pay £9.00
to apply for permission to enter the US.
The compulsory Electronic System for travel authorisation(ESTA) was introduced in January 2009 but was made mandatory from January 2010.
It applies to all 35 countries with the US visa waiver status.It lasts for two years, but if you already have a valid form you will not have to pay until the current one expires.

The Electronic System for Travel Authorisation form can take up to 72 hours to be approved, and gives air passengers prior approval for entry to the US.
It has replaced the "green card", which passengers previously filled in before entering the US, This should only take a few minutes for approval ,however British Airways and American Airlines are advising travellers to apply at least 72 hours in advance.Both airlines have stated people will not be allowed to board flights to the US if they do not have a valid Esta form.
The fee has been introduced in an attempt to promote tourism in the US and attract foreign spending.

listed below are the 35 countries who participate in the Visa waiver programme.
Andorra
Australia
Austria
Belgium
Brunei
Czech Republic
Denmark
Estonia
Finland
France
Germany
Hungary
Iceland
Ireland
Italy
Japan
Latvia
Liechtenstein
Lithuania
Luxembourg
Malta
Monaco
The Netherlands
New Zealand
Norway
Portugal
San Marino
Singapore
Slovakia
Slovenia
south Korea
Spain
Sweden
Switzerland
United Kingdom
and from 5 April 2010 - Greece

If you are travelling soon buy travel insurance, go to www.holidaysafe.co.uk

Backpacking checklist

Before you travel:

Find out where the nearest embassy will be – check their website to find out what services they offer and their opening times.

Do not travel without insurance – make sure it covers you for any activities you are likely to undertake such as extreme or water sports.

If you are travelling in the EU, get a free European Health Insurance Card for free or reduced emergency care - you still need full travel insurance though! Also remember, you can call 112 to contact the emergency services in any EU country.

Check with your doctor as soon as possible to find out if you need any vaccinations before you travel.

Make sure you’ve got correct visas for the country you are visiting and that your passport is valid.All first time adult passport applicants must now attend an interview to verify their identity. It now takes up to six weeks to get a first passport.

For certain countries your passport must be valid for 6 months after the date you travel – check the entry requirements before you go,take photocopies of your passport and other important documents and keep these separate from the originals when you travel

Make sure you fill in the emergency contact details in your passport. This will make it much easier for us to contact someone if necessary tell a friend or relative where you are going and for how long for - give them some idea of your itinerary if possible and an emergency contact number, take enough money for your trip and some back-up funds in a mix of cash and travellers cheque - make a note of the cheques’ numbers before you go

Invest in a good travel guide to help you plan your trip
driving abroad? Make sure your licence is current and valid. Make sure you are aware of the driving laws in the country you are visiting.

When you are away

Think about what you are doing at all times and trust your instincts - don’t take risks that you wouldn’t at home!

Do not openly display valuables such as mobile phones or digital cameras and consider using a padlock on suitcases or backpacks.Find out about local customs and dress, behave accordingly and obey local laws -there may be serious penalties for breaking a law that might seem trivial at home

Be careful when taking photographs, videos or using binoculars. Such activities may be misunderstood, especially near military installations consider taking your mobile with you or renting one whilst you’re away and check with your service provider to make sure your phone works abroad.

Check whether it’s safe to drink local tap water- if not, stick to bottled water and avoid salads, non-peeling fruit and ice in drinks, use your judgement when buying and eating food you’ve not prepared yourself.

Respect the environment – don’t buy wildlife souvenirs, conserve resources like water and don’t drop litter check import regulations for food and plants before you attempt to bring them back to the UK.

Buy backpacking travel insurance at http://www.holidaysafe.co.uk/

2010 Top Holiday destinations

10
Bulgaria
Bulgaria was the number 1 choice for Holiday makers last year, with its many resorts along the Black sea coast, and the Balkan mountains Bulgaria is perfect for tourists who dont have too much money to spend because the prices of items and food in the country are very cheap.Bulgarian resorts are mainly made up of 4 star accomodation and you get the luxury of an expensive holiday at a fraction of the price.
9
Fuerteventura
Fuerteventura, has always been popular with the tourist especially if you are into water sports, if you prefer though you could always take a jeep safari accross the rugged Volcanic landscape, the beach is one of the safest in the world especially if you have children and most of the accomodation in the resort is an impressive 3 stars rated.
8
Egypt
When you think of Egypt the Sphinx and the Pyramids are the first things that come into your head, a great destination for sight seeing and for a slow relaxing sail down the Nile,There is alot more to Egypt though than you may think, if you want the watersports and the relaxing by the pool vacation Egypt also offers that in the resort of Sharm El Sheikh, this luxurious destination has an average hotel star rating of 4 and people love this destination so much that they return year after year
7
The Algarve
Portugals Algarve is always a popular destination and at number 7 for 2010 people are flocking to it again this year, plenty of sea sand and guaranteed sunshine, keeps this resort busy and tourists return year after year.
Golfers have a great choice of courses in the algarve and there is a multitude of bars and Nightclubs 24/7 the Algarve is alive and with a range of activities and shops there is something for everyone, Algarve hotels have an average 3-5 star rating,Of course there is a mix of the new and the old in the algarve too with many historical places to visit.
6
Corfu
One of the most popular of the Greek Islands, Corfu has a plethora of beach resorts, including Kavos for the night life young people swarm too, a picturesque island Corfu has a long and interesting history and you can explore the many old buildings and ruins until your heart is content,.There is a lot to be said about relaxing on the beach and there are many resorts in Corfu that are very laid back and chilled out,most hotels in Corfu have a 3-5 star rating and they are very reasonably priced.
5
Tunisia
Tunisia a non Euro destination is popular this year for many reasons including the low price of food and other items, of course tunisia has a long and varied history making it the perfect getaway for sight seeing, with plenty of old roman ruins merged with the old tunisian style buildings. for the beach buffs there is an array of choice in many resorts there are peaceful beaches and touristy beaches where you can try out a full range of watersports.Tunisian hotels are rated between 3-5 stars and they are well maintained and low cost.
4
Spain
With a whole country to choose fromSpain has everything that anyone could ever want out of a holiday, take a trip to the magnificent city of Barcelona, or to any of the thousands of seaside resorts, there is always the quieter option of a break in the countryside for a whle week or 2 of complete and utter relaxation, it is a big country and the choice is yours Spain is also quite cheap compared to many european countries.Accomodation in spain depends on what you pay for and is rated from 1-5 stars a last minute deal with your travelagent can save you a few hundred.
Top 3 Destinations for 2010
Number 3
Tenerife
Another year in and year out favorite destination Tenerife is always popular with sun seekers, there are a plethora of waterparks, golf courses, and of course there are plenty of beaches to choose from , there is also a chance to do some whale and dolphin watching.The night life in tenerife Is very lively with plenty of bars and nightclubs to choose from,most accomodation here is rated 3-5 stars and the price is right for most of us.
Number 2
Menorca
Menorca is full of unspoiled resorts and secluded beaches perfect for that peaceful getaway, there are markets and shops a plenty and there is also an active night life with many bars and restraunts open till the wee small hours, food lovers enjoy British, French and Spanish influenced styles of cooking which offers a very wide variety.With beach resorts for sun worshippers, historic buildings for sightseers and a great night life Menorca is the second most booked resort in travelagecies this year,accomodation ranges from 3-5 stars and is priced very reasonably.
Number 1
Turkey
Being a non Euro destination means that Turkey is cheap for all of your holiday needs , with a fine history and a multitude of beach resorts Turkey has alot on offer at very low prices and it is number 1 this year because it falls into a price category that almost anyone can afford.Turkey is improving for tourism year in and year out and the tiny resort of Mamaris has become a must for British tourists.Relax on the beach, try out the watersports, trail around the many ruins and old buildings then go out on the town for a fantastic night out with a wide range of bars,restaurants and nightclubs.Accomodation ranges from 3-5 stars but you can book a 5 star accomodation for less than it would cost for a 3 star accomodation in most other destinations on this list.

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