After all it pays to plan ahead when it comes to holiday fashion.

Cruising

A cruise can be one of the best ways to visit new places and experience new cultures. It also presents many opportunities for an outfit.

For those formal black-tie events, opting for a floor length gown will ensure you look both chic and sophisticated. If floor length isn’t your thing, you know you can’t go wrong with an LBD. Just remember to dress it up with simple and sparkly jewellery.

It’s not just about the time spent on the boat though. Often the most enjoyable and eye-opening experiences you’ll have are when you get the opportunity to visit the local places of interest when you dock.

If you’re heading to popular cruise destinations like the Mediterranean or the Caribbean, you’ll need an outfit that keeps you cool when the temperature hots up. Go for light, flowing fabrics to keep cool. Remember the all important sunglasses, hat and a small, practical bag to keep all your valuables safe.

Stylish and luxury spots

We’d all love the chance to head to some of the most stylish, luxury destinations this summer. So if you’re one of the lucky ones visiting spots like Puerto Banus, Sharm-el Sheikh or even the Maldives this year, it’s time to get on trend with the latest fashions.

For evenings out, consider stylish summer dresses in prints, florals or block colours. If it’s just a drink at a beachside bar, sandals are best – just slip them off and feel the sand between your toes. To dress it up for that special meal out, bring out the strappy shoes and some chunky bangles or sparkling silver.

In top destinations like this, daywear is just as important as the night. Your old bikini just won’t do. Once you’ve got your new swimwear sorted, it’s time to choose the ideal accessories to complete the look. A print tunic, top or a casual dress is the perfect accompaniment whether lounging by the pool or strolling along the beach as the sun goes down.

Wherever you’re going, it’s time to get planning.

Think Ibiza, St Tropez, Goa, the Caribbean or even the Maldives. If you’re lucky enough to be jetting off to the plushest of locations this summer, it’s time to step out in the latest styles.

Nautical

Your bikini is always going to be the staple of your beach style wherever your chosen destination is. Nautical is a huge trend in swimwear this year. The fash pack will be stepping out in blue and white and red and white striped bikinis the world over.

If you’re sunning yourself on the deck of a yacht in St. Tropez or Ibiza this summer then nautical is definitely the way to go. Alright a yacht doesn’t count as a beach, but who’s complaining?

But remember you don’t need to be on deck to enjoy this classic, chic and timeless style. Match with some crisp, classic wardrobe staples to flaunt your nautical self on the beach this year.

Bright

Bright, bold colours are everywhere in the swimwear style stakes this year. If you’re heading to exotic destinations like Goa, the Caribbean or Thailand, you just can’t go wrong with saying it loud and proud.

This season you can choose your beach style from block colours in canary yellow, tomato red, fabulous fuchsia or vibrant orange. Remember it’s not just about the block colours though with vibrant prints everywhere this summer. Choose from tribal, animal, graphic and ethnic prints.

To really hit the true style notes on the beach, don’t be scared to mix and match bikinis – remember there’s nothing like a colour clash to stay on trend.

Floral

Beaches are full of colour. It’s not just the white sand and the blue water. Just think of the bright colours that can dance in your vision from the plants and flowers seen in some of the best summer holiday destinations.

Well why not add to that with your choice of swimwear? Not only do flowers create a chic, feminine and girlie feel they also suit any body shape. Strategically placed floral accents dictate the focus, creating a feminine silhouette.

And what goes with prints goes with florals. So to really shake things up for your summer beach style, don’t forget to mix and match.

This is not the case for the four star central London hotel St Ermin’s. You only have to glance at the hotel on a map to see that it is literally smack-bang in London’s green and historic heart. In terms of sightseeing and accessibility, it couldn’t be more perfectly located.

Beyond the gates of the enclosed, Westminster hotels tree-lined courtyard, you will discover that the surrounding area of St James’s Park and Westminster are quintessentially London. The area’s historic buildings, its parks, and views of Buckingham Palace glimpsed between low-hanging tree branches are all exactly what you’d find on a picture postcard of the UK’s capital, and it’s all right here – on the doorstep of St Ermin’s.

The famous saying goes ‘when a man is bored of London, he is bored of life,’ and it’s truer today than when it was first written. Whatever you want to do, it will be here somewhere, and more than likely not too far away from St Ermin’s.

Do you want to spend it up? London’s most famous shopping streets – including Regent Street, Bond Street, Oxford Circus, Carnaby Street and Saville Row – are just a short walk away. Are you looking to tick those famous sights off your bucket list? Well then, the glittering spires of Parliament, Big Ben, the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace and the Changing of the Guard can be seen without having to get in a taxi – you certainly won’t be the first to wander down to Westminster Abbey and play the role of Wills and Kate for a few minutes. Or perhaps you’re keen for a night on the tiles? Hit the theatres and stylish bars of Covent Garden, the slick restaurants of Belgravia or the cool clubs of Soho without travelling much distance at all.

If you want to head out to the other parts of this intriguing city, then the nearest Underground station to St Ermin’s is just 100 metres away. If you’re prone to claustrophobia, or just want to avoid the crowds below ground at rush hour, then you could always jump on a ‘Boris bike’ – as the low-cost rental bikes are fondly named by Londoners – from right outside the hotel’s front door to pedal your way around the city instead.

The vast city of London – and the bit of London immediately outside the door of St Ermin’s– is packed absolutely full of famous sights and unexpected surprises that are simply too numerous to list here. Stay at St Ermin’s and the fantastic staff will help you make the most out of your stay.

(Click on the image for full view)

There are several things you can do to try and keep your luggage as secure as possible at all times. It does not take long for thieves to strike; so you have to keep an eye on your belongings as close as you can.

You need to use your common sense when traveling. This means don’t ever leave your luggage alone. If a thief doesn’t get a hold of it, there’s a good chance the airport security time might and then confiscate it. Don’t allow anything to distract you at places such as airports. Thieves often work in pairs and while one of them is engaging you in a conversation or distracting you somehow the other one simply wheels away all of your valuables.

And speaking of valuables, you should really keep your most valuable items with you at all times and take them in your carry-on luggage if you have room for them. The same goes for medications and things such as eyeglasses, contact lenses, and wallets. If you’re traveling with somebody else, make sure one of you is watching the luggage at all times. Take turns going to the bathroom and other places. If you’re on your own, there’s no choice really other than taking your luggage with you to the washroom.

Even the most innocent of procedures could see you lose your valuables. For instance, when you place your belongings into the airport scanner, make sure you keep your eye on the conveyor belt when your items reappear. You should also make sure the person in front of you doesn’t scoop up any of your items while they’re waiting for theirs.

As well as locking your checked luggage you may also want to place cable ties or plastic strips around them for added security. Airport security will be able to cut through them if they need to check your luggage, but if they don’t, it’ll make it harder for thieves to get at your belongings and will hopefully deter them. You can also make things more difficult for them by shrink-wrapping the luggage. This is also an ideal way to protect your bags from damage.

Hard shell suitcases that lock with latches are generally more secure than cases with zippers. Crooks won’t be able to slash the casing either as they can with soft-style luggage. Your luggage may also be taken from a conveyor belt by mistake. This happens because many suitcases look alike. It’s a good idea to put something on your cases that make them easy to identify, such as a sticker or unique luggage tag.

If you are packing valuable items, make sure you hide them. For instance you can place a small camera inside of a show or sweater and small jewelry can be mixed in with your personal hygiene bag. If anybody’s looking through your suitcase quickly there’s a good chance they won’t find these items. Another good idea is to make an inventory list of your packed luggage. This will enable you to quickly identify anything that’s missing after being handled by the airport staff.

Baggage insurance can also let you travel with the knowledge that if anything does happen to your belongings they’ll be covered under the policy. Of course, suitcase locks can only help so much. If somebody really wants to get into your luggage a lock isn’t going to stop them as they can simply just take your suitcase with them. This is why it’s essential to never let it out of your sight.

(photo credit: Toby Simkin)

These are some of the best destinations in January:

1. Kalibo, Philippines

The annual Ati-Atihan festival entertains every third week of January to honor the baby Jesus (Santo Nino). Even though it’s technically a religious event, it’s basically a huge street party that goes on for a week. It features indigenous costumes, parades, tribal music, masquerades, rhythmic drumming, and dancing. It’s widely recognized as one of Asia’s greatest parties with the motto of “no one should drink alone.”

2. Quebec City, Quebec, Canada

The famous ice hotel known as Hotel de Glace is located just outside the city. It’s constructed entirely of snow and ice and it a true winter wonderland. The rooms offer arctic sleeping bags which you can place on top of a mattress to keep you cozy and warm. There’s also a huge slide that’s made out of ice! The annual Quebec Winter Carnival also takes place and features snow sculptures, parades, concerts, skating and an ice palace.

3. Las Vegas, Nevada, USA

The weather might not be the greatest in Las Vegas in January, but the prices typically drop. There are a couple of new places on the Strip, such as the Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas, which opened at the end of 2010. The annual International CES Consumer Electronics Show also takes place in January, with the 2012 edition running between Jan. 6^th and 9^th. The Adult Entertainment Expo is also on the same weekend, so you’re guaranteed the city will be hopping.

4. Patagonia, Argentina and Antarctica

If you want to see some of the world’s most spectacular ice walls and icebergs one of the best places to check out is the Glacier National Park and the Moreno Glacier down in Patagonia in South America. The warmest time of the year to visit is between November and February, with January being the middle of the summer there. You’ll see baby penguins and you won’t freeze to death while enjoying the amazing sights.

5. Kumbh Mela, India

One of the world’s biggest pilgrimages is the Kumbh Mela as it can attract up to about 70 million people in total. Depending on planetary positions, the pilgrimage happens each 4, 6, 12, or 144 years at several of India’s holy sites, such as Ujjain, Prayag, Haridwar, and Nashik. Each of the pilgrimages occurs over 45 days with a ritual bathing in the famous Ganges River included. The next Kumbh Mela is set to take place at the end of January 2013 in Prayag.

6. Park City, Utah, USA

Park city in Utah offers some of the best skiing and snowboarding opportunities in North America. It’s also a great destination to head to in January because it hosts the annual Sundance Film Festival, which is one of the world’s biggest independent film events. The next edition takes place from Jan. 19^th to 29^th and you’re guaranteed to see some of the stars skiing the slopes the Deer Valley Resort, Park City Mountain Resort, Canyons Resort, or Sundance Resort.

7. New York, New York, USA

January sees some great deals in New York. The city’s Restaurant Week takes place from Jan. 24^th until Feb. 6^th and you’ll be able to eat for half price in some of the finest dining establishments in New York. It features set lunch and set dinner menus starting as low as $24. You can start reserving tables in your favorite restaurants beginning on Jan. 12th. You’ll also be able to find some hotel packages during the month.

(photo credit: Jamie Lynn Ross)

1. Bethlehem, Israel

The Christmas story of Jesus’ birth basically takes place in Bethlehem, so what better place to visit when celebrating his birthday. If you decide to go you’ll be one of thousands of people who make the pilgrimage there each year during the Christmas season. There are processions and services for many different religions including Catholic, Protestant, and Greek Orthodox. You’ll be able to visit many attractions such as the Tomb of Rachel, Manger Square, the Basilica of the Nativity, Shepherds’ Fields, and St. Catherine´s Church. You can also head to Jerusalem, which is nearby, to celebrate Christmas and Hanukkah.

2. Lapland, Finland

Lapland sits in northern Finland, close to the Arctic Circle and way up north. Here you’ll find the ever popular Santa Claus Village. This village is all about Santa. You’ll be able to visit the main post office where all of the letters to Santa arrive. You’ll also be able to enjoy the annual Christmas Exhibition, see his workshop, hang around with some of his elves, go for dog sledding and reindeer rides, and check out the series of underground caves.

3. San Juan, Puerto Rico

San Juan’s Christmas holiday season is among the longest in the world as it goes from mid-November until mid-January. Islanders love to get together with their families and friends for the traditional Christmas Eve dinner where they feast on rice ‘n beans, roast pork, and coconut nog. After dinner they then head out for a midnight mass service. When the New Year arrives, Puerto Ricans customarily eat a dozen grapes which represent good luck in the New Year.

4. Copenhagen, Denmark

Many areas of northern Europe come alive with wonderful Christmas markets once December reaches the calendar. One of the most popular spots is Copenhagen’s Tivoli Gardens. When the Christmas season arrives the century-old amusement park is decked out with lights and decorations for the market. It’s sure to put you in the Christmas spirit.

5. Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii, USA

If somebody says “Mele Kalikimaka” to you in Hawaii, they’re wishing you a Merry Christmas. Many Hawaiians believe that Santa Claus reaches the islands each Christmas by canoe. Honolulu’s Hawaii Kai Marina holds an annual festival of lights Christmas Boat Parade. This is where local residents celebrate in the streets and light a large Christmas tree during the Honolulu City Lights event. Christmas carols are then sung on the beach accompanied by a ukulele.

6. Bondi Beach, Australia

The seasons are reversed in Australia, meaning the Christmas season falls in the summer. People who have no specific plans during the holiday season gather at the world-famous Bondi Beach to celebrate, sunbathe, or surf. You may even see Santa surfing the waves. Don’t forget to take along a small barbecue or picnic basket for your Christmas feast.

7. Vatican City, Italy

St. Peter´s Basilica in Vatican City is a definite hotspot for Catholics who want to attend Christmas mass there. It’s one of the world’s biggest churches, and can hold thousands of people, but it’s so popular you will need a ticket to attend the mass. If you don’t have a ticket, you can head to St. Peter´s Square to soak in the unique atmosphere.

Buying international travel medical insurance helps tourists cover medical costs that might arise in another country. This type of health insurance plan covers medical bills and opens the door for a tourist to be evacuated out of the country they are visiting if an emergency should arise. Most domestic insurance carriers do not cover medical bills when they are incurred in another country, so having additional coverage is a good way for a tourist to avoid paying for the costs of medical bills out of their own wallet.

Simply purchasing travel insurance will not cover the bases. Travel insurance is a different thing than travel health insurance. It is designed to replace stolen or missing luggage or compensate tourists for unexpected travel costs, but it does not cover health care. Those expenses must be covered through insurance specifically designated to cover those expenses.

International travel health insurance is something that can prove beneficial to any traveler. Students participating in foreign study programs, business executives on a corporate trip and a family going on vacation are examples of tourists who can benefit from having potential health care costs covered through this method. There are long-term and short-term policies available depending on how much time a tourist plans to spend in another country.

Gateway Plans is a trusted provider of international travel medical insurance. Tourists can contact Gateway Plans through their website at http://www.gatewayplans.com and find an insurance policy that best fits their specific needs. Policies offered through Gateway Plans can cover costs for a wide range of medical treatments and provide financial assistance should any medical emergency arise for a tourist who is staying in another country.

1. Wahanda

First Wahanda has a complete “Spa Breaks” section where you have a variety of destinations to choose from. Under “Top Spa Break Deals” on the home page, the most affordable getaway is at the Titanic Spa for a one-night special spa break, starting at 49.50 pounds.

When you click on a deal, the page redirects to a full description of the location, Google map with directions, customer reviews, and other special features and things you want to know also great 2for1 spa deals can be had on the site.

The Titanic is a fantastic getaway where you will stay in a serviced apartment, breakfast the following morning, a lavish two-course evening meal, and the Titanic Heat and Ice Experience! The Titanc Heat and Ice Experience is series of experiences where the body is heated and cooling by bathing.

The site claims “the heat experience area guides your body through a sensory journey with the ultimate aim of inducing deep relaxation.” Guests also receive full access to all spa facilities, along with robes and slippers for ultimate comfort.

2. Best Loved Hotels

Second, Best Loved Hotels gives you a wide variety of results for UK Spa Hotels. The best spa hotel for a break or holiday is The Cornwall Hotel Spa & Estate, located in St Austell, Cornwall. Having opened in spring 2010, it is one of the newest spa hotels available.

According to the description, there are a number of ways one can relax and rejuvenate: The Clearing Spa’s infinity pool with walled garden, five wet and dry treatment rooms, as well as the sauna and aroma steam room.

There are a number of great discounts available.

3. Spa Seekers

Finally, Spa Seekers has a wide array of spa breaks at multiple locations. A five-star guest-rated spa was De VereCarden Park, located in Cheshire, North West UK. Their 196-room facility boasts of 20 treatment area spa with two relaxation rooms.

Treatment areas are candlelit, and their 40 treatments include facials, reflexology, waxing, nails, and more. Carden’s wonderful and soothing Spa Therapists will suit anyone’s spa needs during your stay. Other spa attractions include the 20-meter pool, sauna, and great grounds to explore.

In Austria, one will find any environment that is desired, from the hustle and bustle of the city to pacific country sides surrounded by high peaks. Another reason Austria Holidays are so popular is you can also find beautiful lakes in Austria where you can spend a very relaxing vacation with family or even alone.

The following are 3 locations in Austria that have beautiful lakes. They are must-visit locations if you are looking for a relaxing vacation in Austria.

1. Alpbach

In this small village of about 2500, tourism is the main industry with good reason. Alpbach is located almost half a mile above sea level, and it is nestled against the Gratlspitz Peaks. Surrounded by forests and meadows, this small village is the perfect destination for a relaxing vacation.

It has lost none of its old world charm while being able to provide many modern luxuries. Aside from enjoying the lake, things to do in Alpbach include visiting shops and enjoying local restaurants.

2. Fuschl am See

Fuschl am See is another small enchanting village. It is surrounded by rolling hills and gentle mountains, and it is also the site of a beautiful lake. Rowing or canoeing on the lake is a real pleasure.

Since there are no motorboats allowed on the lake, you can peacefully enjoy the clear waters in total silence as if you were the only person out there. Around the lake, there is a great walking trail that takes you through the surrounding woods. This is a magnificent opportunity to get away from the world and see the local wildlife.

When you return, the village offers great shopping, restaurants, and live brass bands.

3. Pertisau

If you are looking for a more adventurous vacation, Pertisau might just be the place for you to go. This small village is located in Karwendel Alpine Park, which is a protected area in Austria. Because of this, the lake and surrounding wilderness are truly pristine.

Above the village are a couple of ski resorts in case you visit in the winter. The resorts not only offer skiing but also many walking trails that vary in their difficulty. In the summer, there is truly endless opportunity when it comes to the type of activity that you can take part in.

The town offers adventures that range from paragliding to rafting and even kite surfing.

So if you happen to be in Austria and are looking to have a wonderful vacation, make it a priority to visit one of these three great villages, and you’ll be sure to find what you are looking for.