APEX EXPRESS

Posts Tagged ‘Holiday’

Brandon finds out how THIS holiday season will turn out for shoppers with a gray economy looming above our heads.

Tips for travelers during the busiest travel time of the year.

Why not check out Club Colonna as a Family Vacation Spot on Antigua this year A Family Vacation Idea is something parents think about a lot, and one of the best family vacation spots on Antigua is Sailing Club Colonna. It is a beachfront hotel situated on the north coast of Antigua in Hodges Bay which offers possibly the best family sailing holiday centre in Antigua if not the Caribbean. What you will find here is the best dinghy sailing and windsurfing in Antigua, and for those not wanting to sail there is blue to turquoise crystal clear water and a private beach lined with palm trees. Essentially this resort is for families who want to learn to sail, or improve their levels of ability. This is the epitome of affordable sailing, and windsurfing coaching for all the family. There is a feeling that the priority here is the sailing and not the resort. There are mixed reviews about everything from the food, the rooms, the spa, and this is a little sad. There is no doubt that the upgrading of the resort and facilities which is imminent will make a difference, because it is very unsettling for staff and guests alike to be in a resort that has improvements planned, and widely known about. After saying this, the main reason for falilies to come here is for a sailing holiday, and there is no doubt that this aspect works well. There are good discounts available, and if guests are aware that things may not be quite right, but the family vacation idea on principle is still OK, and the sailing is great then everything will be in the end what you wanted. One problem about resorts and trying to make sense of what guests have to say, is the fact that everyone’s expectations are different. What a visitor who normally stays in a five star resort would make of Club Colonna is quite understandably different to that of a family with no experience of such places. For what it is, Club Colonna is a great family vacation idea, the beach may or may not be man made, but it is a perfectly good place to swim and sunbathe. Noisy kids may dominate the pool, but that isn’t what everyone says, because the same kids aren’t there all the time. The quality of the food may well vary, but so do guest’s tastes, and what may be delicious to one person may be inedible to another. With everything in life and Club Colonna is no exception you have to see as you find. What you will find is that the Youth Sailing Club for 11 year olds is good fun. The Powerboat course will keep you interested and occupied. Overall there is a definite feeling that Club Colonna is restricted by its budget. There is ample evidence that the resort is awaiting a revamp, and whilst this article may put you off booking this as a family vacation spot, there is every indication that it will reopen, refurbished, revitalised, almost reincarnated, and will return to the high standards some of the guests could remember in past times. The Club Colonna is still a great family vacation idea for a sailing holiday, but perhaps not the best family vacation idea at the moment, but watch this space for a dramatic improvement shortly.

When the song of birds becomes more conspicuous, when the trees sway with the soft breeze and when the call of nature expresses itself with the gushing wave, it is indeed a paradise for any nature lover. The perfect social setting and theme are meant for a bouquet of happiness and contentment. Whether you are looking for dynamic intimate nightlife, or a leisurely vacation spent with family and friends, private islands are the best spots for a blissful trip.
If you want to rent a private island then the best thing that you can do is consult a real estate agent. The real estate agent will be able to tell you the procedure in which to approach. Since he is endowed with the knowledge of the legal procedures of the island, he can tell you the right way in which you can take the island for rent.
People keep coming back to beautiful beachfront shores. It is a common observation that most of them want to return back. It is more likely that those people who love nature dearly would like to spend their times amidst the beauty of nature. There are different tourist places which are located in the private islands. Some islands for example have excellent historical places. There may be some historical evidences which are housed in the museums, while other islands are famous for their fisheries and sports.
Those islands which are renowned as fishing spots offer a brilliant experience to anglers. They can enjoy fishing at some distinct spots which are famous as fishing spots. Tourists can also enjoy the brilliant weather. Since sea breeze blows all round the year, maritime weather prevails there. During the summer months mild hot weather prevails there while during the winter months the weather is cooler. Even older people can stay at the beach resorts because of the pleasant weather. Therefore people rent apartments at the exotic beaches to stay after retirement.
There are a wide number of residential units located on the beaches. They are available for rent and are also sold. Renting a property near the sea beach is like a dream come true for many. Most of us have a house or an apartment but one which is beside the sea is simply alluring to think of. It is bliss beyond imagination.
 

A rental villa in Bali is a great way to spend your well earned few weeks with family members.
However, whether you go for a luxury Bali villa or a standard private Bali villa, how you spend your holiday, and what you do will almost invariably be defined by the number and ages of the children in your family.
This quick guide is intended to provide you with insights into Bali for families, with Bali travel tips and tricks.
Of course, we will start our list in priority, with the most important people, the young ones. If you wish, you may want to scroll down to the right age group for your children.
Infants
A Bali villa holiday is an ideal choice to make (over hotels and the like), if you are traveling to the island with an infant.
At a rental villa you have greater flexibility, support, and often much needed space.
Invariably, Balinese adore children, especially the younger ones. At your Bali rental villa you will more than likely get eager support to look after the little ones whilst you take a much deserved dip in the pool.
Today in Bali, most of your infant’s and your own needs will be met readily. Clean bottled water should be available at your villa, at no extra cost. Most rental villas will offer a microwave, so handy for warming up bottles. Some will even provide child friendly cutlery, so you don’t have to carry your own. Needless to say, as a favourite international tourist destination, Bali offers some very good international standard hospitals and English speaking doctors, if the need arises.
If your little one (or you for that matter), have a particular make of infant formula that you prefer, you may want to get your Bali Villa Manager to check availability for you before you arrive. Whilst there is an increasingly wider choice of baby formulas and ready-made fruit/vegetable purees available in Bali, you may not always be able to find the specific brand that you are familiar with. Of course, the same goes for disposable nappies. These are available at most supermarkets, but possibly not exactly the right brand you may be after.
The great thing about taking your own baby formula, and disposable nappies to Bali is that, having used these up in Bali, for your return trip home, you are left with much more space/weight allowance for all the shopping you will have done in Bali!
For your supplies, you may wish to try Bali Deli, Bintang Supermarket Bali. For a good selection of inflatables drop in at Matahari Bali at Bali Galleria.
Toddlers
Toddlers will love Bali and the Balinese people, since they are absolutely wonderful in interacting with the young ones.
If you want your toddler to make the most of your Bali villa pool, then you can find a variety of inflatable swimming support equipment at department stores, malls and pharmacies. Of course, it is worth noting that when buying these types of devices in Asia, one needs to pay careful attention that it meets international safety regulation. Also, as all inflatable equipment intended for children should clearly state, -these are not life saving devices and should always be used under the supervision of a competent adult swimmer-. .
Also, it is worth noting that, many good villas in Bali, will actually provide some basic toys for your toddlers. Again, it is worth checking that these do meet international safety standards, as some cheap knock-offs may have small pieces or sharp edges.
If you are in need of some nap time stories, there are numerous bookshops in Bali which carry a good selection of English language children’s books. You will find that especially those printed in Indonesia are very reasonably priced.
You may want to try Peripulus Bali or Gramedia Bali, both of which seem to have suitable book selections for the young ones.
Older Children
In my experience, older children will have a ball in Bali and quite likely very happily tire themselves out between the villa swimming pool and the daily excursions.
If you have chosen one of the more spacious Bali villas, it is worth noting that the Balinese do enjoy playing football/soccer as much as the next nation. The rental villa staff will probably need only a tiny bit of encouragement to start playing ball with your young ones.
Similarly, your female villa staff will be more than happy to play-house with your little girl for many hours. What a better way for the young ones to get to learn a new culture, and may be pick up a word or two of the local language whilst having fun!
Of course, once you manage to drag yourself out of your Bali holiday villa, the options for the young ones are even more numerous.
Here is a quick list for starters:
1. Waterbom Park Bali
A genuine must during your Bali villa vacation. Suitable rides for children of all ages.
2. Horse Riding
From chaperoned rides on ponies to full galloping experience on the beach.
3. Cruising
A selection of boats, and family cruises to choose from.
3. Lovina Dolphin Watching
Bit far away from most Bali villas, but still well worth the trip.
5. Elephant Safari Park
With some great conservation and animal rescue efforts.
6. Go-Karting
For those with the need for speed.
Teenagers
I regularly get asked, if it is safe to mix Bali with teenagers. In all honesty? The answer is an absolute and one hundred percent, yes.
Bali is essentially a very safe place.
Over a million people visit Bali every year, with tens of thousands of teenagers traveling to Bali with their families, or on their own, and in majority of the cases, no one ever feels threatened or in any form of risk.
There are numerous restaurants, bars, and night clubs in Bali, and probably all are essentially safe places for anyone with some common sense.
Three simple guidelines apply in Bali, as with any other holiday destination.
- Keep away from illegal substances.
- Drink alcohol in moderation (especially in the heat, as one will already be dehydrated)
- Think twice before renting a motor-bike (or certainly, riding one under the influence of alcohol)
Once these three basics are addressed, you will find Bali to be one of the safest holiday destinations for your teenagers.
For You
Of course, last but not least, if there is any time left, you yourself will want to enjoy your Bali villa to the fullest.
The great news is, you have your own private swimming pool in your own villa. (Almost all Bali villas come with private pools. ) Also, quite likely a wonderful sun-deck from which to soak up the rays.
Most Bali rental villas come equipped with a TV and Satellite/Cable connection. So if you want to catch up on the news, or sports, or just enjoy a DVD, you will not feel out of touch.
Many rental villas in Bali will also provide a library service, providing all sorts of fiction/non-fiction books for your reading pleasure whilst in Bali.
If you want to be a bit more adventurous, and can actually bring yourself to leave your newly found haven, here are a few things you may wan to try:
1. Dance Performances
Try to catch one of each of:Kecak, Legong and Fire Dances, at least.
2. Designer Shopping
In the recent years, Balinese design scene has been experiencing an amazing renaissance.
3. Diving
Different courses and organised dives exist to meet all needs.
4. Fishing
Fishing boats from Benoa Harbour or Sanur)

5. Golfing
A number of 18 hole courses are available across Bali, many with great views.

6. Helicopter Tours
Not cheap, but certainly an experience never to forget.
7. Kite Boarding
Some great wind and lift, as well as the equipment for rental are available at Nusa Dua beaches.
8. Surfing
If you are experienced, you will know where to go. If you want to learn, head for the Kuta beach where you can catch beginners’ lessons.
9. Paragliding
Throw yourself off the sheer cliff faces into the Indian Ocean!.
10. White Water Rafting
Enjoy a thrilling ride through 8 kilometers of rapids!
Once you have done it, you will agree that, Bali villas offer an amazing setting to enjoy your family holiday. The great thing is, you get to have a great Bali holiday, together, but each enjoying their own space, flexibility and freedom.
Hopefully, armed with these insights, you can now ease into your new Bali rental villa, and have a spectacular holiday in this island paradise.
Many happy returns. . .

India is an amazing land, full of fascinating attractions a world away from the holiday destinations of the west. But perhaps the most impressive thing about this remarkable country is just how varied the attractions are. There is something for everyone, from the outstanding food (you should be warned, curries have been cooled considerably for western palettes!) to the spectacular wildlife to the fascinating culture and history. Narrowing a list of recommendations for your luxury holiday to India down to just five items was tricky, but hopefully this will give you an idea of just how varied and exciting a tour of India can be. And just to be awkward, I haven’t included the Taj Mahal – which is of course a must-see! Valley of Flowers One of the most beautiful places on the planet, the Valley of Flowers is located high in West Himalaya and boasts over 500 varieties of flower. The national park is only open between June and October (on account of it being snow covered for the rest of the year), but in this short window, the sheer beauty of the flora cannot be questioned. On top of this, the fauna is also fascinating, and the park is home to many types of animal – most notably the Himalayan black bear and the beautiful snow leopard. Sundarbans National Park If you want to see Indian wildlife in its natural habitat, the Sundarbans National Park is a must. As well as being one of the largest reserves of the famous Bengal tiger, the park contains a huge selection of wildlife including fishing cats, macaques, wild boar, flying fox, pangolin, chital, olive ridley turtles, estuarian crocodiles and gangetic dolphins. Wildlife lovers looking to tour India should make the Sundarbans National Park a priority! Goa Trance Parties Although they won’t be on everybody’s list of highlights when taking a tour of India, Goa trance parties have reached legendary status. While you can now attend similarly themed events around the globe, you can’t beat heading to the source! Although nowadays it’s more common to find them centred around bars, rather than the beaches and forests that they were in their 1990s heyday. If you have the chance, heading there around new year brings the most bustling parties, with people from all walks of life joining the celebrations – from all over the world. Darjeeling Toy Train Although it’s universally nick-named the toy train, the Darjeeling-Himalayan railway is actually a narrow gauge train route traversing nearly 90 kilometres of the Himalayas. The toy train provides a romantic view of the Himalayas, and allows you to explore the different regions; taking is some outstanding views of the mountain peaks. This is something that everybody should do on a luxury holiday to India. Relax in Ladakh Lying between the Kunlun mountain range to the north and the Himalayas to the south, this is one of the least populated regions in India. It’s renowned for its remote mountain beauty and there are few places in the world more tranquil. An absolute must to visit on your luxury holiday to India. I could go on. The truth is that narrowing this list down to five things to do on a tour of India has been incredibly hard. Go take a luxury holiday in India yourself, and prepare to be amazed by the diversity of this wonderful country.

While we mainly aim this article at visitors to our part of the world in Bali, Indonesia, you can apply a lot of the advice to holidays anywhere in the world. One of the great attractions of bali is that it is cheap. The Tourism Authority of bali can carry on pushing their vision of bali as a millionaire’s playground for as long as they want but still the majority of visitors will be people who have a limited budget. Its simple tips to help you make your money go further. We are not talking about the sort of penny-pinching measures that backpackers use to make their tiny budget stretch a year. We are not going to suggest you eat noodles every day. After all, you are on holiday and holidays are meant to be enjoyed. However, most people have worked hard for their two-week holiday in the land of smiles and there is no reason why they should not get the best from their money. Here are a few simple tips to make the money go a bit further. AccommodationIf you want budget accommodation then usually you can find good deals just by walking in off the street. Walk around the side streets of any of Kuta’s beach resorts and you will find guesthouses. During peak high-season (Xmas & January) it is better to book in advance as there may not be any rooms available. Whatever you do, do not ask a tuk-tuk driver for a recommendation. They will just take you somewhere that pays them commission. If you want mid to high range accommodation then you should book in advance. If you walk in off the street, you will pay more for your room. It may seem strange but it is cheaper to book in advance through a travel agent or internet-booking site. The internet booking sites have the best rates. An excellent tool for finding the best rates is Get Bali villas. This Bali based website does a price comparison across 30 internet-booking sites and finds the cheapest available offline rates. Money ExchangeDo not change money in your home country before coming to Bali. You will get a much better rate of exchange in Bali. Bring an ATM card or travelers cheques. In fact, it is nice to have two sources of money in case of problems so why not bring both. Do not exchange your money at hotels. They give bad rates. Exchange booths at airports also give poor rates. The best way to get money when you first arrive is to use an ATM at the airportToursThe tour prices in Kuta are generally very competitive. These organised tours are a convenient and reasonably priced way to see Kuta’s tourist attractions. There are many tour shops and lots of tours so the competition keeps the prices down. Just go to any tour shop and you are likely to find some good deals. The only problem with booking tours is you do not know the quality of the tour service. The price may be competitive but if the experience is poor then you will still be disappointed. Most of the tour organisers provide a good service but there are also a few stinkers. TippingTipping was never really a part of Bali culture. It is a custom that we visiting westerners have introduced and which Bali customers have now taken up. Most western visitors over-tip. The normal tip in Bali at restaurants or bars is USD 1. That may seem like a derisory sum to leave by western standards but in Bali they do not expect any more. You are not being tightfisted by leaving so little. In fact, some claim that westerners who come here and tip big are actually causing problems for everybody else. They are creating an expectancy of big tips from westerners that never used to exist.