Choice Villas & Apartments July 09
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Villas & Apartments
W
elcome to the July 2009 issue of Choice Villas & Apartments. In addition to our quick and easy-to-use design, allowing you to locate your dream family holiday even faster, we hope you’ll find our extra edit pages useful too. Choice Essentials (p6) is full of new product reviews and reader giveaways and Choice Holidays (p8) concentrates on Tenerife. Also, enter our competition (p12) for your chance to win a holiday to the Paradise Park Resort & Spa, Tenerife. Within the magazine we have retained our popular country/region section format with a brief introduction to the area and useful website listings to help plan your holiday. Also, if you fancy a holiday home of your own, check out our
Property
for Sale section towards the back of the magazine.
Choice Essentials
6
Win some holiday goodies
Choice Holidays
8
Tenerife
Competition
12
Win a holiday to the Paradise Park Resort & Spa, Tenerife
Florida Balearic Islands Canary Islands Costa Blanca Costa del Sol
Published by: Travel & Leisure Magazines Ltd, 103 Cranbrook Road, Ilford, Essex IG1 4PU, UK Tel: +44 (0)20 8477 1529 Fax: +44 (0)20 8514 4536 Email: [email protected] Printed by Wyndeham Heron ©Travel & Leisure Magazines Limited 2009
14 20 22 25 26
France Cyprus Italy Portugal Car hire Flights Insurance for car hire
27 28 31 32 35 35 35
Property for sale
36
The publishers cannot accept responsibility for errors or omissions. Whilst every care is taken, all material submitted to Travel & Leisure Magazines Limited is done so at its owner's risk and neither Travel & Leisure Magazines Limited nor its agents can accept any liability for loss or damage. Travel & Leisure Magazines Limited is a completely independent company and can hold no responsibility for the actions of outside agents. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without prior written consent. Please note: property buyers should expect extra financial costs such as legal costs, local taxes etc. All private advertisers are totally responsible for their own wording within their advertisement, and Travel & Leisure Magazines Limited can therefore take no responsibility as to their content. Please seek legal advice and thereafter verify all the details of your purchase in writing before proceeding.
YOURNo– 1 CHOICE
Editor: Keeley Gordon [email protected] Editorial Assistant: Loretta Prince [email protected] Advertising Sales: Beverley Sennett [email protected] Admin/Accounts: Wendy Barfoot [email protected] Publishers: Peter Lewsey [email protected] Terry Stafford [email protected]
FOR RENTING OR BUYING A VILLA OR APARTMENT
Choice Essentials Save your skin with AfterBURN
AfterBURN Sunburn Rescue Gel will help soothe and repair sun damaged skin, unlike traditional ‘aftersun’ products that simply moisturise. The gel draws water from within the skin (the dermis) to the surface (the epidermis) helping to rehydrate and treat sun-damaged skin. It’s odourless, non sticky and non-staining and rapidly absorbed and acts quickly on the skin. It contains no alcohol, added preservatives or colourings and helps to reduce the chances of premature skin ageing. AfterBURN Sunburn Rescue Gel is available from Boots and pharmacies and leading retailers nationwide priced £9.78 for 75g.
100% waterproof and ready for action Do you wish you could take under water photos or use your mobile phone whilst in the pool? Well you can now with the range of waterproof cases from OverBoard. There is one for everything from technology cases and waist packs to duffel bags and back packs. The dry tube bags even float if dropped in water!
For everyone, for every holiday, for everything! Prices vary depending on product and size; a 20 Ltr Dry Tube is £19.99 and a Small Aqua Phone Case is £14.97. Go to www.over-board.com for full product details.
Choice Giveaway: We have five OverBoard cases to giveaway. You can choose from a mobile phone case, a camera case or a multi-purpose case.
BUGS AWAY Mosi-guard contains only natural active ingredients so it’s kind to skin and there is no danger of damage to plastics and fabrics. Protect the whole family including children from three months old from insect bites with Mosi-guard. Available as Mosi-guard Natural Insect Repellent Aerosol 150ml, Cream 100ml, Spray 100ml, Roll On 60ml and Stick 50ml, all SRP £5.86. Mosi-guard is available to buy online at www.safariquip.co.uk; www.ifsogo.com; or from MASTA Travel Clinics, Waitrose, Superdrug and some independant pharmacies. www.mosi-guard.com
Choice Giveaway: 10 x Mosi-guard Natural Insect Repellent Aerosol 150ml
With hotels at every major UK airport and rooms from just £29, there’s no excuse! Forget early mornings and stressful traffic jams and stay at an airport Travelodge the night before your flight. A family room will accommodate either: two adults and two children under the age of 16 or three adults and all you pay for is the price of the room which starts at £29. All Travelodge rooms offer en-suite facilities, luxury king-size bed, flat screen TV, wifi and free tea / coffee making facilities. The latest Travelodge opening is Heathrow Central. The hotel has a hopper bus service to Terminal 1, 2 and 3. There is on-site car-parking and customers can get up to 60% off airport 6 Choice Villas & Apartments July 2009
parking by booking in advance for stays over four days or more with BCP. The 304 room hotel is styled in the company’s new room style and has a Bar Café that offers an all-you-can-eat breakfast buffet, snacks, evening meal and bar service. Throughout the summer Travelodge is launching a 99p cream tea offer at some of its airport hotels which includes: Heathrow Central, Heathrow T5, Gatwick, Stanstead and Manchester. The cream tea consists of a large scone, a pot of clotted cream, a pot of either strawberry or raspberry jam and a collection of teas. To book visit www.travelodge.co.uk
Reviews & Giveaways Handbag essentials from Boots
Whether you’re clubing in Ibiza or cruising in the Caribbean, Boots has some great products to see you through the summer. Soltan mini sunscreen (75ml SPF 25–£4.99) is ideal for keeping in your bag. It won’t take up much space and with UVA & UVB filters to reduce the sun’s burning effect on the skin, it could be your most treasured handbag item! Other vanity case must haves from Boots include No7 Quick Thinking 4 in 1 Wipes (30 wipes) £6.90; Boots Smile Totalcare Mouthwash Coolmint 75ml 79p; Botanics Cooling Foot & Leg Spray 150ml £3.99; Extracts Mini Body Butters, 50ml £2.45 and Extracts Mini Body Washes, 75ml £2.45. www.boots.com
Safe belongings in your room, at the beach or by the pool The security experts at Yale have introduced a handy new portable Travel Safe that can be attached to any fixed objects in your hotel room or while you’re out and about to keep your belongings safe. Available in black or white, the slim-line safe can hold your passport, spending money and mobile phone, and comes with a steel cable, which can be securely locked around a wardrobe rail, parasol or even a restaurant table. Designed to fit in your handbag or travel bag, the safe comes with a four-digit combination lock and has a strengthened casing for further protection against attack and theft. The Travel Safe retails at £9.99 and is available from www.argos.co.uk
Choice Giveaways
10% off
For the man who has everything The Travelwrap for him is so luxurious it will make even the hardest person to buy for feel special! The classic look and sharp colours will never go out of fashion and the quality and finish of the Scottish cashmere will make everyone feel at home. The Travelwrap for him is available in plain shades of charcoal, oatmeal, silver, black and an eclectic choice of charcoal/silver stripe and makes the perfect travel accessory to take on board a flight, cruise or simply relaxing at home or in the garden. Travelwrap for him is the deluxe wardrobe investment for the discerning man and will soon make it to the top of his list of favourite travel items along with the comfy t.shirt, the linen trousers and the vintage leather wash bag! The Travelwrap costs from £191 and comes with a protective linen bag beautifully wrapped in the signature Travelwrap Company box – a gorgeous gift for someone special. Or maybe you would like to treat yourself – Travelwrap is also available for women and children. Go to www.thetravelwrapcompany.com for further details or phone 0844 800 1296.
Choice Special Offer: Enter the code: VILLA10 for 10% off any of The Travelwrap for Him collection of Travelwraps at www.thetravelwrapcompany.com until 31 August 09.
How to enter: Entries can be made by going to
www.choicetravelinfo.com before the Friday 21 August 2009 and entering your details under ‘competitions and giveaways’. The winner will be announced and published on the website after the closing date. Terms and conditions on the website.
Your first choice for travel, accommodation and days out
www.choicetravelinfo.com Choice Villas & Apartments July 2009 7
Choice Holidays Been there and done that? The chances are that you haven’t! Visitors to Tenerife are blessed with heaps of spectacular attractions, both new and old but how many people actually leave the poolside and take the time to explore? The largest of the Canary Islands, is lucky enough to enjoy year-round sunshine, beautiful beaches, a rich and varied landscape and some of the most colourful fiestas and carnivals in Spain – can you be tempted?
Strelicia flower ©Tenerife Touri sm Corpo
ration
Playa de las Americas ©Keeley Gordon
What’s new? Loro Parque, Puerto de la Cruz Tenerife’s newest attraction is Loro Parque’s Katandra Treetops. The park will be opening a free flight aviary named Katandra Treetops that will include over a hundred different species of birds such as cockatoos, pelicans and fruit pigeons. The new exhibition is due to open late summer/autumn 2009. Loro Parque is home to the largest collection of parrots in the world as well as killer whales, sharks, penguins, sea lions, dolphins, iguanas, tigers, monkeys and many many more. www.loroparque.com
Church, Puerto de la Cruz ©Tenerife Tourism Corporation
Sailing ©Tenerife Tourism Corporation
Siam Park, Costa Adeje The very latest addition to Tenerife’s exciting theme parks is Siam Park, a Thai-themed water park, with detailed sculptures and lush green vegetation. Visitors can wonder around the Floating Market, drift peacefully along the Lazy River, relax on the Thai Beach, swim along with alligators, surf the largest man made waves in the world and enjoy the fun sea lions. Adrenalin-seekers will love the Tower of Power, with its breath-taking 28 metre drop and heart-stopping finale or the Volcano, where the darkness envelops you as you increase speed or for the less-adventurous, sheer relaxation can be sought on the largest (9,500 square metres) white sandy beach in Tenerife. www.siampark.net TEA, Tenerife Espacio de las Artes – Temporary display of Roland Penrose’s surrealist art Santa Cruz The innovative TEA (Tenerife 8 Choice Villas & Apartments July 2009
Arts Space) opened in October 2008 and is the latest addition to Tenerife’s museums and contemporary architecture. The spectacular building, designed by the prestigious Swiss architects Jacques Herzog and Pierre de Meuron and Spanish architect Virgilio Gutierrez, aims to become a leading example of contemporary architecture. The futuristic building is set between the contrasting old and new districts of Santa Cruz and has an extraordinary display of photography, paintings and sculptures including that of a respected surrealist artist from Tenerife named Oscar Dominguez. www.teatenerife.es www.webtenerifeuk.co.uk T3 AthleticSphere, Tenerife Top Training Centre – La Caleta de Adeje The High Performance Tenerife Top Training Centre opened in October 2008 and is located in a quaint fishing village named La Caleta, in Tenerife South. Also known as the T3 AthleticSphere, the sports centre is fully equipped with the latest developments in sports facilities and will offer amateurs the chance to unite in a welcoming atmosphere. The indoor swimming facilities include Spain’s only countercurrent swimming machine with hydrodynamic streams, which is also the most modern of the 20 existing machines in the world. www.tenerifetoptraining.com Playa de las Americas ©Keeley Gordon
Further information Tenerife Tourism Corporation www.webtenerifeuk.co.uk Hotel Paradise Park Resort & Spa www.hotelparadisepark.com Airport Parking – Holiday Extras www.holidayextras.co.uk
Discover Tenerife Mount Teide ©Tenerife Tourism Corporation
Old favourites
Facts
Get up close with the dolphins: Take a boat trip from the south coast and keep your eyes peeled for Pilot whales and Bottlenose dolphins in the straits that separate Tenerife from its neighbour La Gomera. It’s sometimes possible to see White Whales. Ride with the camels: Take a camel ride at the Camello Centre at El Tanque or a donkey or pony ride at the Oasis del Valle in the Orotava Valley Natural salt pools: Enjoy the natural salt water pools along the coastline of Puerto de la Cruz – swim, sunbathe or just ‘people watch’ at the Costa Martianez. For safe, calm swimming conditions head to the Lido at Martianez beach Siam Park ©Siam Park
An explosive day out: Appealing to all ages, a visit to the Parque Nacional La Canadas del Teide is an absolute must. Fascinating volcanic rock formations surround Mount Teide. The National Park was declared a natural heritage site by UNESCO last year. Adrenalin junkies: The warm climate is perfect for many activities including canyoning, caving, climbing, hiking, horse riding, mountain biking, paragliding and scuba diving. The most popular dive sites are off the south east coast from centres such as Radazul, Las Eras or Las Galletas where divers can find slopes, walls and spectacular chasms. Siam Park ©Siam Park
The average temperature in winter is 20ºC while in summer it’s 23ºC. The sea temperature stays between 19 and 25ºC all year round. The south of Tenerife has the highest number of hotels and apartments on the island. The Teide National Park, dominated by the volcano that gave it its name, and which stands at a height of 3,718 metres, is the most visited park in all of Spain.
Festivals Hearts of Tejina La Laguna, last weekend in August One of the most original festivals in Tenerife takes place each year. It is known as the "Corazones de Tejina" (the hearts of Tejina) in honour of Saint Bartholomew. Its strange name comes from the custom of making three large, two-metre high hearts from beech tree sticks decorated with flowers and fruit.The three neighbourhoods of the "Calle de Arriba" (Upper Street), the Calle de Abajo (Lower Street) and El Pico (the Peak) compete to see who can make the most beautiful heart. Fiestas of Nuestra Señora del Carmen Los Cristianos, first week of September The tourist resort and fishing harbour of Los Cristianos, celebrates the festival of the "Virgen del Carmen" on the first Sunday in September. On this day, the patron saint of fishermen is honoured by leading a procession across the harbour in a brightly decorated boat followed by a convoy of other boats.There is a wide range of events and a festive atmosphere that lasts for various days.
Tenerife www.alandowtenerife.co.uk ★ www.alandowlanzarote.co.uk
★ ★ ★
TENERIFE ✷ LANZAROTE ✷ CYPRUS ✷ SPAIN ✷ FLORIDA ★ • QUALITY APARTMENTS AT AFFORDABLE PRICES • PERSONAL SERVICE FOR SHORT & LONG TERM RENTALS FROM THE OWNER
Contact Alan Dow, email: [email protected]
★ ★
w w w. a l a n d o w c y p r u s . c o . u k ★ w w w. a l a n d o w s p a i n . c o . u k
10 Choice Villas & Apartments July 2009
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TENERIFE SOUTH - LA CALETA FISHING VILLAGE - ACCOMMODATES 10
LOW SEASON £800/WK HIGH SEASON £1300/WK
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Contact Mike Carroll Tel: 01484 510846 Fax: 01484 425953 Email: [email protected]
Choice Villas & Apartments July 2009 11
Tenerife
• Five-bedroom villa and two bathrooms • Twenty-minute drive from airport • Sun terraces and swimming pool • 50 metres to shops, cafes and restaurants • 30metres from the sea front • One mile from Adeje Costa Golf Club, a new 18-hole course and driving range
‘We don’t just cater for kids, we cater for the whole family’
A 7 night stay at the 4★ Hotel Paradise Park Resort & Spa in Los Cristianos, Tenerife The prize consists of 7 nights accommodation in a Junior Suite for 2 people on half board basis
he Hotel Paradise Park Resort & Spa is a family owned and run hotel situated in the resort of Los Cristianos in the South of Tenerife. The hotel has a variety of room types to suit all, including standard twin rooms, twin rooms with lounge for families and larger groups, junior suites and executive junior suites. There are also several one and two bedroom apartments on the complex for those who prefer a more independent option. All rooms have a balcony.
T
For further information visit: www.hotelparadisepark.com
The hotel boasts a host of facilities including: ● Six swimming pools: • one on the roof top solarium, designated an adults only area, • a main pool in the family area, • a second adult only pool, • two pools in the hotel owned leisure area and a kids pool. ● Pool Bars ● Restaurants ● Roof Top Solarium (adults only) To be in with a chance of winning this ● Spa facilities fantastic prize simply go to ● Daily entertainment www.choicetravelinfo.com for adults and before Friday 21 August 2009 and children enter your details under ‘competitions giveaways’. The winner will be ● Free shuttle bus to and published on the website after the closing beach date. Prize must be taken between 4 Sep – 18 ● Gym Dec 09 subject to availability. Flights and ● Hair Salon Holiday Insurance not included. Terms and conditions on the website. ● Shop
How to enter
12 Choice Villas & Apartments July 2009
Image: Discovery Cove ©Orlando CVB
lorida is the perfect holiday destination for the entire family, whether you look to please your five-year-old son or your 65year-old mother! From its sandy beaches to its breathtaking parks, Florida has everything from history to the hottest attractions.
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Siesta Public Beach in Sarasota is a familyfriendly beach with shallow waters, year-round lifeguards and the whitest sands in Florida. The Everglades National Park is the only subtropical preserve in North America, With its luscious wetlands and more than 150 miles of canoeing and walking trails, this reserve will excite a family of nature lovers of all ages. Florida is known for its enticing stores, malls and outlets filled with merchandise that is sure to delight – for some of the best shopping, travel up the west coast to Northwest Florida. With both Destin Commons and the Silver Sands Factory Stores, this is a true shopper’s paradise. For the perfect match of history, culture and beauty, travel to Florida’s east coast and experience St. Augustine – the nation’s oldest city. St. Augustine amazes visitors
with its ancient cobblestone streets, quaint cafés and a host of historical landmarks and attractions, such as the 310-year-old Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, allowing you to travel back to the early Spanish empire in the New World. For a taste of everything, visit Walt Disney World, where you are bound to find something to please everyone, from one of Orlando’s best shopping districts to Blizzard Beach or Epcot and Animal Kingdom – not to mention the amazing nightlife!
Useful info Temperatures
Orlando
Dec–Feb 23°C Mar–May 28°C Jun–Aug 33°C Sep–Nov 29°C Average daily maximum - guide only
Currency US dollar www.xe.com (currency converter)
Further info www.visitflorida.com/destinations
Getting there British Airways www.ba.com Virgin Atlantic www.virgin-atlantic.com
Florida 16 Choice Villas & Apartments July 2009
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on Beautiful Captiva Island Photo gallery on our website
www.captiva-island.com 001-239-395-2490
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Choice Villas & Apartments July 2009 17
Florida
Vacation Rentals
Florida 18 Choice Villas & Apartments July 2009
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Florida
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Choice Villas & Apartments July 2009 19
Picture © Turespaña
bout a hundred miles off the east coast of Spain lies a group of islands blessed with a combination of nature, climate and culture that has transformed them into tourism giants. The Balearic Islands consist of Majorca (Mallorca in Spanish), Menorca and Ibiza, plus the smaller Formentera and numerous minor islands. Drenched in sunshine, the Balearic Islands boast stunning scenery and sandy beaches, pulsating nightlife and rural serenity; but perhaps the key to their success is their individuality: each of the main islands has its own peculiar look and feel, and is associated with a particular type of holiday.
A
The Balearic Islands can be found just off the east coast of Valencia, with the closest island being 85 km from the mainland, whilst the furthest lies 333 km away. Various bays, coves and capes dominate the smooth coastline but there are a few rugged landscapes and cliffs to be seen. Majorca has the largest mountains of the islands with some summits reaching 1,445 metres (Puig Major) and 1,340 metres (Puig de
Massanella). There are no large rivers on the islands, this is due to the moderate rainfall, the permeable soil and the actual size of the islands themselves and its waterways are dominated by watercourses and torrents. The subsoil, however, houses important aquifers that have given rise to major caves of extraordinary beauty, that include the Caves of Drach and the Arta Caves in Majorca, and Xoroi Cave in Menorca.
Useful info Temperatures
Palma, Majorca
Dec–Feb 15°C Mar–May 19°C Jun–Aug 28°C Sep–Nov 23°C Average daily maximum - guide only
Currency Euro www.xe.com (currency converter)
Further info www.visitbalears.com
Getting there EasyJet www.easyjet.com Iberia www.iberia.com
Image ©Tenerife Toursim
ost visitors go to the Canary Islands because the weather is reliable, the beaches are good and the tourist facilities are fantastic, but there is a whole lot more to discover on the ‘blessed islands’.
They vary dramatically between western and eastern ends of the chain, but all offer a wonderful climate throughout the year, which every winter attracts thousands of European weather-fugitives to their beaches, towns, volcanoes, forests and deserts.
Tenerife, La Palma, La Gomera, El Hierro, Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura and Lanzarote form the Canary Islands and they lie in a part of the Atlantic Ocean known as Macaronesia, which includes the archipelagos of Madeira, Salvajes, Azores, Cape Verde and part of Morocco. It’s easy to assume that the Canary Islands are part of Africa with the closest point on the African coast only 210km away from Gran Canaria, but it was in fact Spain who eventually conquered the Canary Islands with a long quest between 1402–1495.
The only problem you have now is deciding which island to visit – you can of course island-hop by plane or boat so why not visit them all!
M
Throughout the years the Canary Islands relied on an economy of sugar cane, wine, cochineal, bananas, tobacco and other agricultural resources before the tourism boom in the fifties, which saw holiday-makers flocking to its shores.
Useful info Temperatures
Sta Cruz, Tenerife
Dec–Feb 21°C Mar–May 23°C Jun–Aug 28°C Sep–Nov 26°C Average daily maximum - guide only
Currency Euro www.xe.com (currency converter)
Further info www.canarias-turismo.com
Getting there British Airways www.ba.com Iberia www.iberia.com
Fuerteventura Lanzarote
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Choice Villas & Apartments July 2009 23
Lanzarote Bungalow La Casita
Puerto Del Carmen, Lanzarote
Exceptional 3-bed 3-bath bungalow villa in the exclusive area of Los Mojones, completely private, just 10 mins walk from main promenade, beaches and Puerto del Carmen. Fully fitted kitchen, private off-street parking, large heated pool, sun bathing terrace, BBQ and covered outdoor eating area. Pleasant dining area with views of pool and terrace. Lounge with comfortable, modern corner suite and plasma digital TV with UK channels. External laundry area. Master Bedroom Lovely airy room with king size bed, fitted wardrobes and superb ensuite bathroom. Bedroom 2 Twin bedded room, fitted wardrobes and ensuite bathroom. Bedroom 3 Situated across the terrace from main bungalow, twin beds with ensuite bathroom, also small kitchen area with fridge and sink. Arrecife Airport 10 mins approx.
Los Techos Villa
Completely private, spacious villa on several levels with marvelous views of the volcanic mountains. Magnificent 11m heated pool and sun bathing terraces, covered games area, family-sized hot tub, BBQ & bar. Fabulous day lounge with Sky TV and DVD player. Fully fitted kitchen. Beautiful dining area. Master Bedroom with king size bed, huge dressing room, en-suite bathroom. Bedroom 2 Enormous twin-bedded room with dressing room and en-suite bathroom. Bedroom 3 King-size bed and en-suite shower room. Bedroom 4 Twin-bedded room with en-suite shower room. Bedroom 5 Separate from the main house, overlooking the pool. Twin-bedded room with en-suite bathroom. Sleeps 10. Arrecife Airport 10 mins approx.
Contact Annaley Yates Tel: 01253 300435 Mob: 0772 0763378 [email protected] www.lanzarotevillas.info
24 Choice Villas & Apartments July 2009
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Useful info Temperatures Alicante
Dec–Feb 17°C Mar–May 20°C Jun–Aug 28°C Sep–Nov 24°C Average daily maximum - guide only
Currency Euro www.xe.com (currency converter) Image ©Turespaña
Further info www.spain.info
Getting there British Airways www.ba.com EasyJet www.easyjet.com
25 Choice Villas & Apartments July 2009
n the south west of Spain in the province of Alicante, the Costa Blanca is a land of many contrasts with golden beaches, green valleys, mountains, quaint villages and over 150km of coastline overlooking the beautiful Mediterranean sea. With the sun shining almost all year round, its natural landscape makes the Costa Blanca an ideal destination for all kinds of sporting activities, including horse-riding, trekking, bicycle-riding, mountaineering and numerous water-sports. On average, seven out of ten visitors to the Valencian region choose to stay in Benidorm, the Costa Blanca’s main tourist resort with the capacity to cope with 300,000 tourists over the peak-season period.
I
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Useful info Temperatures Malaga
Dec–Feb 17°C Mar–May 21°C Jun–Aug 29°C Sep–Nov 23°C Average daily maximum - guide only
Currency Euro www.xe.com (currency converter) Image ©Turespaña
Further info www.spain.info
Getting there British Airways www.ba.com Ryanair www.ryanair.com
26 Choice Villas & Apartments July 2009
round Malaga to the east of Gibraltar, the Sun Coast has built its success on its warm air and sea and almost guaranteed sunshine. Resorts range from Marbella – with its exclusive marina at Puerto Banús – to Torremolinos; add the dramatic mountain scenery and spectacular cave at Nerja and a wealth of sporting options, and the Costa del Sol emerges as a varied and complete holiday destination. There are 11 marinas on the Costa del Sol, putting the region ahead of the rest of Andalusia in sailing and watersports facilities. Most of these ports have magnificent nightlife and top restaurants, with many stylish boutiques and shops of all kinds. The Costa del Sol is also a golfer’s paradise.
A
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Useful info Temperatures Bordeaux
Dec–Feb 10°C Mar–May 17°C Jun–Aug 25°C Sep–Nov 19°C Average daily maximum - guide only
Currency Euro www.xe.com (currency converter)
Further info www.uk.franceguide.com
Getting there EasyJet www.easyjet.com Air France www.airfrance.co.uk
27 Choice Villas & Apartments July 2009
rance is the biggest country in western Europe, and also one of the most diverse. It has oceanic, continental and Mediterranean climates, soaring mountains (including Europe’s highest), rugged plateaux, dense forests, sun-drenched vineyards and olive groves, sweeping plains traversed by great rivers, and mile upon mile of beaches on three different seas. It has diverse regions, with their own distinctive cultures and languages. It has ancient cities full of architectural splendour, juxtaposed with the sharpest of modern technology and design. It has some of the world’s greatest art treasures, dating from the Stone Age to the present day. Above all, though, France has a certain approach to life that makes time spent here special and unique.
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Image ©Cyprus Tourist Office
yprus is the third largest island in the Mediterranean Sea and despite being at the crossroads of three continents, it is a distinctive place that can feel blissfully apart from it all. There are beaches to suit just about everybody, from families with small children to seekers of solitude and the Troodos Mountains offer an alluring contrast to the coast. Explore the narrow stone streets of Nicosia for a taste of history, where crimson flowers cascade from window pots and the aroma of traditional baking wafts through open doorways.
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Along the route that leads from the port city of Limassol to Paphos, is a magnificent stretch of coastline where you can swim in the sea at Petra tou Romiou, where Aphrodite emerged from the sea-foam in ancient times. In the Akamas region, hikers exploring the area's rich flora can cool off at the grotto where the love goddess bathed after her amorous interludes! A tradition of celebration and hospitality is always present in the vibrant seaside town of Limassol. From the Wine Festival in September, to the Carnival in February, music, parades, and dancing is a way of life! Shopping boutiques, inviting cafés and a palm-
lined promenade lead the way to the Larnaka Medieval Museum, housed in a 17th Century fort. Not far from Larnaka is the enchanting village of Lefkara, once admired by Leonardo da Vinci for its exquisite handmade lace. Life in the southeastern corner of Cyprus revolves around the sea, with water sports of all kinds readily available. East to Protaras, glorious beaches spread out under the sun, while just inland the white-washed town of Paralimni boasts open-air tavernas known for their succulent grilled fish.
Useful info Temperatures
Paphos
Dec–Feb 16°C Mar–May 20°C Jun–Aug 28°C Sep–Nov 25°C Average daily maximum - guide only
Currency Euro www.xe.com (currency converter)
Further info www.visitcyprus.org.cy
Getting there British Airways www.ba.com Easy Jet www.easyjet.com
Cyprus
Aura Holiday Villas are an exclusive group of 2 and 3 bedroom detached holiday villas in the Coral Bay area of Paphos, Cyprus. Each villa has it’s own private swimming pool and balconies, which all enjoy magnificent and unobstructed views of the Mediterranean Sea. They are elegantly designed and have been built metres away from secluded sandy beaches and local amenities, such as supermarkets and tavernas. The bus stop is 100 metres away and gives easy access to the popular sandy beach of Coral Bay, the fun and exciting nightlife of Kato Paphos, and all the shops of Paphos town.
Prices per week – 2 bedroom villa Low season Mid season High season £330 £550 £990
Contact Tel: 00 357 26935373 Mob: 00 357 99385910 Email: [email protected] www.auravillas.com
30 Choice Villas & Apartments July 2009
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Useful info Temperatures Rome
Dec–Feb 14°C Mar–May 18°C Jun–Aug 28°C Sep–Nov 22°C Average daily maximum - guide only
Currency Euro www.xe.com (currency converter)
Further info www.italiantouristboard.co.uk
Getting there EasyJet www.easyjet.com Alitalia www.alitalia.com
31 Choice Villas & Apartments July 2009
taly is not just a place; Italy is a world-famous cuisine, the most glamorous cars, footballing legends, and some of the most beautiful art, music and architecture the world has ever seen, as well as one of its greatest empires and most influential languages. The country traditionally divides into three mainland areas, plus the islands of Sicily and Sardinia. The north boasts many fascinating cities, including the region’s largest, Milan and Turin, as well as the Alps and the Italian Lakes. The south is dominated by Naples; and has the added attraction of nearby Mount Vesuvius and the excavations at Pompeii and Herculaneum. Between north and south lies the Italy that has become the beloved haunt of distinguished tourists.
I
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t the south-western extremity of Europe, Portugal’s history and culture are inseparable from the sea. Once a great imperial power, it is now better known for sunshine, golf and fortified wine. The Costa de Prata, the Estoril coast and Costa Azul all compete for the attention of tourists, but best known are the beaches and year-round sunshine of the Algarve in the far south. Nature has blessed Portugal’s 850 km of coastline with a bit of everything, from enchanting beaches to varied, breath-taking countryside and the Atlantic coast is prized by surfers and windsurfers across Europe.
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The coastal towns are also rich in Portuguese heritage, discover the colourful seafaring and fishing traditions and end your day by sampling some of the finest fresh fish in the world. Lisbon is the Atlantic capital, blessed with natural beauty and steeped in fascinating history and the only European capital with Atlantic beaches. Take the train along the north bank of the Tagus estuary and discover miles of golden sandy beaches. The beaches of
Estoril and Cascais are home to a number of royal castles – a stunning legacy of the times when the kings of Portugal spent their summers there. Lisbon also has a rich and colourful seafaring heritage, in the 16th century, ships set sail from the beaches of the River Tagus to chart a route to far-off India. The city’s passion for the sea continues to this day, visit the Parque das Nações and you’ll discover Europe’s largest aquarium.
Useful info Temperatures Faro, Algarve Dec–Feb 17°C Mar–May 20°C Jun–Aug 28°C Sep–Nov 23°C Average daily maximum - guide only
Currency Euro www.xe.com (currency converter)
Further info www.visitportugal.com
Getting there EasyJet www.easyjet.com TAP Air Portugal www.tap-airportugal.co.uk
Casa Martin, Nr Loulé
Contact Hugh Cross Tel: 020 7823 2032 (office hours) or 0780 193 1721 Email: [email protected]
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Choice Villas & Apartments July 2009 33
Portugal
Sympathetically converted farmhouse in peaceful, rural surroundings with private swimming pool and terraces. Five mins by car from charming market town of Loulé, excellent for shopping and dining. Faro airport and the coast 20-min drive. Car hire is essential. 1 double and 1 twin bedroom, large shower room and comfortable lounge. Fully-equipped kitchen and dining room. Wood fire and electric radiators. Situated on high ground amongst fields of almond, olive and fig trees with coastal views. Shady tiled covered terrace, large built-in barbecue with tiled dining table and benches. Accommodates 2–4. Prices from £350/wk.
Portugal 34 Choice Villas & Apartments July 2009
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Car hire Flights
• Discount Flights Worldwide • Car Hire • Airport Car Parking • Holiday Insurance DESTINATIONS • Balearics • Canaries • Caribbean • Cyprus • Greece & Islands • Italy • Portugal • Spain • Turkey • USA
Telephone: 0845 045 0152
www.charterflights.co.uk
Insurance for car hire
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Choice Villas & Apartments July 2009 35
LOOK NO FURTHER FOR THE HOLIDAY HOME OF YOUR DREAMS! Now all properties for sale are collected together in their own special section. Villas and apartments for sale, separated into easyto-use country sections with fabulous properties from all around the world.
Timeshare...................................................37 Turkey........................................................38 Spain ........................................................38 Cyprus .....................................................38
Turkey Spain
‘BEST BUYS’ on the Spanish Costas
www.villavalue.com RICHARD A ROOKE
Tel/Fax: 0034 965 320024 E-mail: [email protected]
Cyprus
Independent Property Consultant
38 Choice Villas & Apartments July 2009
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W
elcome to the July 2009 issue of Choice Villas & Apartments. In addition to our quick and easy-to-use design, allowing you to locate your dream family holiday even faster, we hope you’ll find our extra edit pages useful too. Choice Essentials (p6) is full of new product reviews and reader giveaways and Choice Holidays (p8) concentrates on Tenerife. Also, enter our competition (p12) for your chance to win a holiday to the Paradise Park Resort & Spa, Tenerife. Within the magazine we have retained our popular country/region section format with a brief introduction to the area and useful website listings to help plan your holiday. Also, if you fancy a holiday home of your own, check out our
Property
for Sale section towards the back of the magazine.
Choice Essentials
6
Win some holiday goodies
Choice Holidays
8
Tenerife
Competition
12
Win a holiday to the Paradise Park Resort & Spa, Tenerife
Florida Balearic Islands Canary Islands Costa Blanca Costa del Sol
Published by: Travel & Leisure Magazines Ltd, 103 Cranbrook Road, Ilford, Essex IG1 4PU, UK Tel: +44 (0)20 8477 1529 Fax: +44 (0)20 8514 4536 Email: [email protected] Printed by Wyndeham Heron ©Travel & Leisure Magazines Limited 2009
14 20 22 25 26
France Cyprus Italy Portugal Car hire Flights Insurance for car hire
27 28 31 32 35 35 35
Property for sale
36
The publishers cannot accept responsibility for errors or omissions. Whilst every care is taken, all material submitted to Travel & Leisure Magazines Limited is done so at its owner's risk and neither Travel & Leisure Magazines Limited nor its agents can accept any liability for loss or damage. Travel & Leisure Magazines Limited is a completely independent company and can hold no responsibility for the actions of outside agents. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without prior written consent. Please note: property buyers should expect extra financial costs such as legal costs, local taxes etc. All private advertisers are totally responsible for their own wording within their advertisement, and Travel & Leisure Magazines Limited can therefore take no responsibility as to their content. Please seek legal advice and thereafter verify all the details of your purchase in writing before proceeding.
YOURNo– 1 CHOICE
Editor: Keeley Gordon [email protected] Editorial Assistant: Loretta Prince [email protected] Advertising Sales: Beverley Sennett [email protected] Admin/Accounts: Wendy Barfoot [email protected] Publishers: Peter Lewsey [email protected] Terry Stafford [email protected]
FOR RENTING OR BUYING A VILLA OR APARTMENT
Choice Essentials Save your skin with AfterBURN
AfterBURN Sunburn Rescue Gel will help soothe and repair sun damaged skin, unlike traditional ‘aftersun’ products that simply moisturise. The gel draws water from within the skin (the dermis) to the surface (the epidermis) helping to rehydrate and treat sun-damaged skin. It’s odourless, non sticky and non-staining and rapidly absorbed and acts quickly on the skin. It contains no alcohol, added preservatives or colourings and helps to reduce the chances of premature skin ageing. AfterBURN Sunburn Rescue Gel is available from Boots and pharmacies and leading retailers nationwide priced £9.78 for 75g.
100% waterproof and ready for action Do you wish you could take under water photos or use your mobile phone whilst in the pool? Well you can now with the range of waterproof cases from OverBoard. There is one for everything from technology cases and waist packs to duffel bags and back packs. The dry tube bags even float if dropped in water!
For everyone, for every holiday, for everything! Prices vary depending on product and size; a 20 Ltr Dry Tube is £19.99 and a Small Aqua Phone Case is £14.97. Go to www.over-board.com for full product details.
Choice Giveaway: We have five OverBoard cases to giveaway. You can choose from a mobile phone case, a camera case or a multi-purpose case.
BUGS AWAY Mosi-guard contains only natural active ingredients so it’s kind to skin and there is no danger of damage to plastics and fabrics. Protect the whole family including children from three months old from insect bites with Mosi-guard. Available as Mosi-guard Natural Insect Repellent Aerosol 150ml, Cream 100ml, Spray 100ml, Roll On 60ml and Stick 50ml, all SRP £5.86. Mosi-guard is available to buy online at www.safariquip.co.uk; www.ifsogo.com; or from MASTA Travel Clinics, Waitrose, Superdrug and some independant pharmacies. www.mosi-guard.com
Choice Giveaway: 10 x Mosi-guard Natural Insect Repellent Aerosol 150ml
With hotels at every major UK airport and rooms from just £29, there’s no excuse! Forget early mornings and stressful traffic jams and stay at an airport Travelodge the night before your flight. A family room will accommodate either: two adults and two children under the age of 16 or three adults and all you pay for is the price of the room which starts at £29. All Travelodge rooms offer en-suite facilities, luxury king-size bed, flat screen TV, wifi and free tea / coffee making facilities. The latest Travelodge opening is Heathrow Central. The hotel has a hopper bus service to Terminal 1, 2 and 3. There is on-site car-parking and customers can get up to 60% off airport 6 Choice Villas & Apartments July 2009
parking by booking in advance for stays over four days or more with BCP. The 304 room hotel is styled in the company’s new room style and has a Bar Café that offers an all-you-can-eat breakfast buffet, snacks, evening meal and bar service. Throughout the summer Travelodge is launching a 99p cream tea offer at some of its airport hotels which includes: Heathrow Central, Heathrow T5, Gatwick, Stanstead and Manchester. The cream tea consists of a large scone, a pot of clotted cream, a pot of either strawberry or raspberry jam and a collection of teas. To book visit www.travelodge.co.uk
Reviews & Giveaways Handbag essentials from Boots
Whether you’re clubing in Ibiza or cruising in the Caribbean, Boots has some great products to see you through the summer. Soltan mini sunscreen (75ml SPF 25–£4.99) is ideal for keeping in your bag. It won’t take up much space and with UVA & UVB filters to reduce the sun’s burning effect on the skin, it could be your most treasured handbag item! Other vanity case must haves from Boots include No7 Quick Thinking 4 in 1 Wipes (30 wipes) £6.90; Boots Smile Totalcare Mouthwash Coolmint 75ml 79p; Botanics Cooling Foot & Leg Spray 150ml £3.99; Extracts Mini Body Butters, 50ml £2.45 and Extracts Mini Body Washes, 75ml £2.45. www.boots.com
Safe belongings in your room, at the beach or by the pool The security experts at Yale have introduced a handy new portable Travel Safe that can be attached to any fixed objects in your hotel room or while you’re out and about to keep your belongings safe. Available in black or white, the slim-line safe can hold your passport, spending money and mobile phone, and comes with a steel cable, which can be securely locked around a wardrobe rail, parasol or even a restaurant table. Designed to fit in your handbag or travel bag, the safe comes with a four-digit combination lock and has a strengthened casing for further protection against attack and theft. The Travel Safe retails at £9.99 and is available from www.argos.co.uk
Choice Giveaways
10% off
For the man who has everything The Travelwrap for him is so luxurious it will make even the hardest person to buy for feel special! The classic look and sharp colours will never go out of fashion and the quality and finish of the Scottish cashmere will make everyone feel at home. The Travelwrap for him is available in plain shades of charcoal, oatmeal, silver, black and an eclectic choice of charcoal/silver stripe and makes the perfect travel accessory to take on board a flight, cruise or simply relaxing at home or in the garden. Travelwrap for him is the deluxe wardrobe investment for the discerning man and will soon make it to the top of his list of favourite travel items along with the comfy t.shirt, the linen trousers and the vintage leather wash bag! The Travelwrap costs from £191 and comes with a protective linen bag beautifully wrapped in the signature Travelwrap Company box – a gorgeous gift for someone special. Or maybe you would like to treat yourself – Travelwrap is also available for women and children. Go to www.thetravelwrapcompany.com for further details or phone 0844 800 1296.
Choice Special Offer: Enter the code: VILLA10 for 10% off any of The Travelwrap for Him collection of Travelwraps at www.thetravelwrapcompany.com until 31 August 09.
How to enter: Entries can be made by going to
www.choicetravelinfo.com before the Friday 21 August 2009 and entering your details under ‘competitions and giveaways’. The winner will be announced and published on the website after the closing date. Terms and conditions on the website.
Your first choice for travel, accommodation and days out
www.choicetravelinfo.com Choice Villas & Apartments July 2009 7
Choice Holidays Been there and done that? The chances are that you haven’t! Visitors to Tenerife are blessed with heaps of spectacular attractions, both new and old but how many people actually leave the poolside and take the time to explore? The largest of the Canary Islands, is lucky enough to enjoy year-round sunshine, beautiful beaches, a rich and varied landscape and some of the most colourful fiestas and carnivals in Spain – can you be tempted?
Strelicia flower ©Tenerife Touri sm Corpo
ration
Playa de las Americas ©Keeley Gordon
What’s new? Loro Parque, Puerto de la Cruz Tenerife’s newest attraction is Loro Parque’s Katandra Treetops. The park will be opening a free flight aviary named Katandra Treetops that will include over a hundred different species of birds such as cockatoos, pelicans and fruit pigeons. The new exhibition is due to open late summer/autumn 2009. Loro Parque is home to the largest collection of parrots in the world as well as killer whales, sharks, penguins, sea lions, dolphins, iguanas, tigers, monkeys and many many more. www.loroparque.com
Church, Puerto de la Cruz ©Tenerife Tourism Corporation
Sailing ©Tenerife Tourism Corporation
Siam Park, Costa Adeje The very latest addition to Tenerife’s exciting theme parks is Siam Park, a Thai-themed water park, with detailed sculptures and lush green vegetation. Visitors can wonder around the Floating Market, drift peacefully along the Lazy River, relax on the Thai Beach, swim along with alligators, surf the largest man made waves in the world and enjoy the fun sea lions. Adrenalin-seekers will love the Tower of Power, with its breath-taking 28 metre drop and heart-stopping finale or the Volcano, where the darkness envelops you as you increase speed or for the less-adventurous, sheer relaxation can be sought on the largest (9,500 square metres) white sandy beach in Tenerife. www.siampark.net TEA, Tenerife Espacio de las Artes – Temporary display of Roland Penrose’s surrealist art Santa Cruz The innovative TEA (Tenerife 8 Choice Villas & Apartments July 2009
Arts Space) opened in October 2008 and is the latest addition to Tenerife’s museums and contemporary architecture. The spectacular building, designed by the prestigious Swiss architects Jacques Herzog and Pierre de Meuron and Spanish architect Virgilio Gutierrez, aims to become a leading example of contemporary architecture. The futuristic building is set between the contrasting old and new districts of Santa Cruz and has an extraordinary display of photography, paintings and sculptures including that of a respected surrealist artist from Tenerife named Oscar Dominguez. www.teatenerife.es www.webtenerifeuk.co.uk T3 AthleticSphere, Tenerife Top Training Centre – La Caleta de Adeje The High Performance Tenerife Top Training Centre opened in October 2008 and is located in a quaint fishing village named La Caleta, in Tenerife South. Also known as the T3 AthleticSphere, the sports centre is fully equipped with the latest developments in sports facilities and will offer amateurs the chance to unite in a welcoming atmosphere. The indoor swimming facilities include Spain’s only countercurrent swimming machine with hydrodynamic streams, which is also the most modern of the 20 existing machines in the world. www.tenerifetoptraining.com Playa de las Americas ©Keeley Gordon
Further information Tenerife Tourism Corporation www.webtenerifeuk.co.uk Hotel Paradise Park Resort & Spa www.hotelparadisepark.com Airport Parking – Holiday Extras www.holidayextras.co.uk
Discover Tenerife Mount Teide ©Tenerife Tourism Corporation
Old favourites
Facts
Get up close with the dolphins: Take a boat trip from the south coast and keep your eyes peeled for Pilot whales and Bottlenose dolphins in the straits that separate Tenerife from its neighbour La Gomera. It’s sometimes possible to see White Whales. Ride with the camels: Take a camel ride at the Camello Centre at El Tanque or a donkey or pony ride at the Oasis del Valle in the Orotava Valley Natural salt pools: Enjoy the natural salt water pools along the coastline of Puerto de la Cruz – swim, sunbathe or just ‘people watch’ at the Costa Martianez. For safe, calm swimming conditions head to the Lido at Martianez beach Siam Park ©Siam Park
An explosive day out: Appealing to all ages, a visit to the Parque Nacional La Canadas del Teide is an absolute must. Fascinating volcanic rock formations surround Mount Teide. The National Park was declared a natural heritage site by UNESCO last year. Adrenalin junkies: The warm climate is perfect for many activities including canyoning, caving, climbing, hiking, horse riding, mountain biking, paragliding and scuba diving. The most popular dive sites are off the south east coast from centres such as Radazul, Las Eras or Las Galletas where divers can find slopes, walls and spectacular chasms. Siam Park ©Siam Park
The average temperature in winter is 20ºC while in summer it’s 23ºC. The sea temperature stays between 19 and 25ºC all year round. The south of Tenerife has the highest number of hotels and apartments on the island. The Teide National Park, dominated by the volcano that gave it its name, and which stands at a height of 3,718 metres, is the most visited park in all of Spain.
Festivals Hearts of Tejina La Laguna, last weekend in August One of the most original festivals in Tenerife takes place each year. It is known as the "Corazones de Tejina" (the hearts of Tejina) in honour of Saint Bartholomew. Its strange name comes from the custom of making three large, two-metre high hearts from beech tree sticks decorated with flowers and fruit.The three neighbourhoods of the "Calle de Arriba" (Upper Street), the Calle de Abajo (Lower Street) and El Pico (the Peak) compete to see who can make the most beautiful heart. Fiestas of Nuestra Señora del Carmen Los Cristianos, first week of September The tourist resort and fishing harbour of Los Cristianos, celebrates the festival of the "Virgen del Carmen" on the first Sunday in September. On this day, the patron saint of fishermen is honoured by leading a procession across the harbour in a brightly decorated boat followed by a convoy of other boats.There is a wide range of events and a festive atmosphere that lasts for various days.
Tenerife www.alandowtenerife.co.uk ★ www.alandowlanzarote.co.uk
★ ★ ★
TENERIFE ✷ LANZAROTE ✷ CYPRUS ✷ SPAIN ✷ FLORIDA ★ • QUALITY APARTMENTS AT AFFORDABLE PRICES • PERSONAL SERVICE FOR SHORT & LONG TERM RENTALS FROM THE OWNER
Contact Alan Dow, email: [email protected]
★ ★
w w w. a l a n d o w c y p r u s . c o . u k ★ w w w. a l a n d o w s p a i n . c o . u k
10 Choice Villas & Apartments July 2009
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TENERIFE SOUTH - LA CALETA FISHING VILLAGE - ACCOMMODATES 10
LOW SEASON £800/WK HIGH SEASON £1300/WK
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Contact Mike Carroll Tel: 01484 510846 Fax: 01484 425953 Email: [email protected]
Choice Villas & Apartments July 2009 11
Tenerife
• Five-bedroom villa and two bathrooms • Twenty-minute drive from airport • Sun terraces and swimming pool • 50 metres to shops, cafes and restaurants • 30metres from the sea front • One mile from Adeje Costa Golf Club, a new 18-hole course and driving range
‘We don’t just cater for kids, we cater for the whole family’
A 7 night stay at the 4★ Hotel Paradise Park Resort & Spa in Los Cristianos, Tenerife The prize consists of 7 nights accommodation in a Junior Suite for 2 people on half board basis
he Hotel Paradise Park Resort & Spa is a family owned and run hotel situated in the resort of Los Cristianos in the South of Tenerife. The hotel has a variety of room types to suit all, including standard twin rooms, twin rooms with lounge for families and larger groups, junior suites and executive junior suites. There are also several one and two bedroom apartments on the complex for those who prefer a more independent option. All rooms have a balcony.
T
For further information visit: www.hotelparadisepark.com
The hotel boasts a host of facilities including: ● Six swimming pools: • one on the roof top solarium, designated an adults only area, • a main pool in the family area, • a second adult only pool, • two pools in the hotel owned leisure area and a kids pool. ● Pool Bars ● Restaurants ● Roof Top Solarium (adults only) To be in with a chance of winning this ● Spa facilities fantastic prize simply go to ● Daily entertainment www.choicetravelinfo.com for adults and before Friday 21 August 2009 and children enter your details under ‘competitions giveaways’. The winner will be ● Free shuttle bus to and published on the website after the closing beach date. Prize must be taken between 4 Sep – 18 ● Gym Dec 09 subject to availability. Flights and ● Hair Salon Holiday Insurance not included. Terms and conditions on the website. ● Shop
How to enter
12 Choice Villas & Apartments July 2009
Image: Discovery Cove ©Orlando CVB
lorida is the perfect holiday destination for the entire family, whether you look to please your five-year-old son or your 65year-old mother! From its sandy beaches to its breathtaking parks, Florida has everything from history to the hottest attractions.
F
Siesta Public Beach in Sarasota is a familyfriendly beach with shallow waters, year-round lifeguards and the whitest sands in Florida. The Everglades National Park is the only subtropical preserve in North America, With its luscious wetlands and more than 150 miles of canoeing and walking trails, this reserve will excite a family of nature lovers of all ages. Florida is known for its enticing stores, malls and outlets filled with merchandise that is sure to delight – for some of the best shopping, travel up the west coast to Northwest Florida. With both Destin Commons and the Silver Sands Factory Stores, this is a true shopper’s paradise. For the perfect match of history, culture and beauty, travel to Florida’s east coast and experience St. Augustine – the nation’s oldest city. St. Augustine amazes visitors
with its ancient cobblestone streets, quaint cafés and a host of historical landmarks and attractions, such as the 310-year-old Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, allowing you to travel back to the early Spanish empire in the New World. For a taste of everything, visit Walt Disney World, where you are bound to find something to please everyone, from one of Orlando’s best shopping districts to Blizzard Beach or Epcot and Animal Kingdom – not to mention the amazing nightlife!
Useful info Temperatures
Orlando
Dec–Feb 23°C Mar–May 28°C Jun–Aug 33°C Sep–Nov 29°C Average daily maximum - guide only
Currency US dollar www.xe.com (currency converter)
Further info www.visitflorida.com/destinations
Getting there British Airways www.ba.com Virgin Atlantic www.virgin-atlantic.com
Florida 16 Choice Villas & Apartments July 2009
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on Beautiful Captiva Island Photo gallery on our website
www.captiva-island.com 001-239-395-2490
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Choice Villas & Apartments July 2009 17
Florida
Vacation Rentals
Florida 18 Choice Villas & Apartments July 2009
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Florida
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Choice Villas & Apartments July 2009 19
Picture © Turespaña
bout a hundred miles off the east coast of Spain lies a group of islands blessed with a combination of nature, climate and culture that has transformed them into tourism giants. The Balearic Islands consist of Majorca (Mallorca in Spanish), Menorca and Ibiza, plus the smaller Formentera and numerous minor islands. Drenched in sunshine, the Balearic Islands boast stunning scenery and sandy beaches, pulsating nightlife and rural serenity; but perhaps the key to their success is their individuality: each of the main islands has its own peculiar look and feel, and is associated with a particular type of holiday.
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The Balearic Islands can be found just off the east coast of Valencia, with the closest island being 85 km from the mainland, whilst the furthest lies 333 km away. Various bays, coves and capes dominate the smooth coastline but there are a few rugged landscapes and cliffs to be seen. Majorca has the largest mountains of the islands with some summits reaching 1,445 metres (Puig Major) and 1,340 metres (Puig de
Massanella). There are no large rivers on the islands, this is due to the moderate rainfall, the permeable soil and the actual size of the islands themselves and its waterways are dominated by watercourses and torrents. The subsoil, however, houses important aquifers that have given rise to major caves of extraordinary beauty, that include the Caves of Drach and the Arta Caves in Majorca, and Xoroi Cave in Menorca.
Useful info Temperatures
Palma, Majorca
Dec–Feb 15°C Mar–May 19°C Jun–Aug 28°C Sep–Nov 23°C Average daily maximum - guide only
Currency Euro www.xe.com (currency converter)
Further info www.visitbalears.com
Getting there EasyJet www.easyjet.com Iberia www.iberia.com
Image ©Tenerife Toursim
ost visitors go to the Canary Islands because the weather is reliable, the beaches are good and the tourist facilities are fantastic, but there is a whole lot more to discover on the ‘blessed islands’.
They vary dramatically between western and eastern ends of the chain, but all offer a wonderful climate throughout the year, which every winter attracts thousands of European weather-fugitives to their beaches, towns, volcanoes, forests and deserts.
Tenerife, La Palma, La Gomera, El Hierro, Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura and Lanzarote form the Canary Islands and they lie in a part of the Atlantic Ocean known as Macaronesia, which includes the archipelagos of Madeira, Salvajes, Azores, Cape Verde and part of Morocco. It’s easy to assume that the Canary Islands are part of Africa with the closest point on the African coast only 210km away from Gran Canaria, but it was in fact Spain who eventually conquered the Canary Islands with a long quest between 1402–1495.
The only problem you have now is deciding which island to visit – you can of course island-hop by plane or boat so why not visit them all!
M
Throughout the years the Canary Islands relied on an economy of sugar cane, wine, cochineal, bananas, tobacco and other agricultural resources before the tourism boom in the fifties, which saw holiday-makers flocking to its shores.
Useful info Temperatures
Sta Cruz, Tenerife
Dec–Feb 21°C Mar–May 23°C Jun–Aug 28°C Sep–Nov 26°C Average daily maximum - guide only
Currency Euro www.xe.com (currency converter)
Further info www.canarias-turismo.com
Getting there British Airways www.ba.com Iberia www.iberia.com
Fuerteventura Lanzarote
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Choice Villas & Apartments July 2009 23
Lanzarote Bungalow La Casita
Puerto Del Carmen, Lanzarote
Exceptional 3-bed 3-bath bungalow villa in the exclusive area of Los Mojones, completely private, just 10 mins walk from main promenade, beaches and Puerto del Carmen. Fully fitted kitchen, private off-street parking, large heated pool, sun bathing terrace, BBQ and covered outdoor eating area. Pleasant dining area with views of pool and terrace. Lounge with comfortable, modern corner suite and plasma digital TV with UK channels. External laundry area. Master Bedroom Lovely airy room with king size bed, fitted wardrobes and superb ensuite bathroom. Bedroom 2 Twin bedded room, fitted wardrobes and ensuite bathroom. Bedroom 3 Situated across the terrace from main bungalow, twin beds with ensuite bathroom, also small kitchen area with fridge and sink. Arrecife Airport 10 mins approx.
Los Techos Villa
Completely private, spacious villa on several levels with marvelous views of the volcanic mountains. Magnificent 11m heated pool and sun bathing terraces, covered games area, family-sized hot tub, BBQ & bar. Fabulous day lounge with Sky TV and DVD player. Fully fitted kitchen. Beautiful dining area. Master Bedroom with king size bed, huge dressing room, en-suite bathroom. Bedroom 2 Enormous twin-bedded room with dressing room and en-suite bathroom. Bedroom 3 King-size bed and en-suite shower room. Bedroom 4 Twin-bedded room with en-suite shower room. Bedroom 5 Separate from the main house, overlooking the pool. Twin-bedded room with en-suite bathroom. Sleeps 10. Arrecife Airport 10 mins approx.
Contact Annaley Yates Tel: 01253 300435 Mob: 0772 0763378 [email protected] www.lanzarotevillas.info
24 Choice Villas & Apartments July 2009
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Useful info Temperatures Alicante
Dec–Feb 17°C Mar–May 20°C Jun–Aug 28°C Sep–Nov 24°C Average daily maximum - guide only
Currency Euro www.xe.com (currency converter) Image ©Turespaña
Further info www.spain.info
Getting there British Airways www.ba.com EasyJet www.easyjet.com
25 Choice Villas & Apartments July 2009
n the south west of Spain in the province of Alicante, the Costa Blanca is a land of many contrasts with golden beaches, green valleys, mountains, quaint villages and over 150km of coastline overlooking the beautiful Mediterranean sea. With the sun shining almost all year round, its natural landscape makes the Costa Blanca an ideal destination for all kinds of sporting activities, including horse-riding, trekking, bicycle-riding, mountaineering and numerous water-sports. On average, seven out of ten visitors to the Valencian region choose to stay in Benidorm, the Costa Blanca’s main tourist resort with the capacity to cope with 300,000 tourists over the peak-season period.
I
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Useful info Temperatures Malaga
Dec–Feb 17°C Mar–May 21°C Jun–Aug 29°C Sep–Nov 23°C Average daily maximum - guide only
Currency Euro www.xe.com (currency converter) Image ©Turespaña
Further info www.spain.info
Getting there British Airways www.ba.com Ryanair www.ryanair.com
26 Choice Villas & Apartments July 2009
round Malaga to the east of Gibraltar, the Sun Coast has built its success on its warm air and sea and almost guaranteed sunshine. Resorts range from Marbella – with its exclusive marina at Puerto Banús – to Torremolinos; add the dramatic mountain scenery and spectacular cave at Nerja and a wealth of sporting options, and the Costa del Sol emerges as a varied and complete holiday destination. There are 11 marinas on the Costa del Sol, putting the region ahead of the rest of Andalusia in sailing and watersports facilities. Most of these ports have magnificent nightlife and top restaurants, with many stylish boutiques and shops of all kinds. The Costa del Sol is also a golfer’s paradise.
A
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Useful info Temperatures Bordeaux
Dec–Feb 10°C Mar–May 17°C Jun–Aug 25°C Sep–Nov 19°C Average daily maximum - guide only
Currency Euro www.xe.com (currency converter)
Further info www.uk.franceguide.com
Getting there EasyJet www.easyjet.com Air France www.airfrance.co.uk
27 Choice Villas & Apartments July 2009
rance is the biggest country in western Europe, and also one of the most diverse. It has oceanic, continental and Mediterranean climates, soaring mountains (including Europe’s highest), rugged plateaux, dense forests, sun-drenched vineyards and olive groves, sweeping plains traversed by great rivers, and mile upon mile of beaches on three different seas. It has diverse regions, with their own distinctive cultures and languages. It has ancient cities full of architectural splendour, juxtaposed with the sharpest of modern technology and design. It has some of the world’s greatest art treasures, dating from the Stone Age to the present day. Above all, though, France has a certain approach to life that makes time spent here special and unique.
F
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Image ©Cyprus Tourist Office
yprus is the third largest island in the Mediterranean Sea and despite being at the crossroads of three continents, it is a distinctive place that can feel blissfully apart from it all. There are beaches to suit just about everybody, from families with small children to seekers of solitude and the Troodos Mountains offer an alluring contrast to the coast. Explore the narrow stone streets of Nicosia for a taste of history, where crimson flowers cascade from window pots and the aroma of traditional baking wafts through open doorways.
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Along the route that leads from the port city of Limassol to Paphos, is a magnificent stretch of coastline where you can swim in the sea at Petra tou Romiou, where Aphrodite emerged from the sea-foam in ancient times. In the Akamas region, hikers exploring the area's rich flora can cool off at the grotto where the love goddess bathed after her amorous interludes! A tradition of celebration and hospitality is always present in the vibrant seaside town of Limassol. From the Wine Festival in September, to the Carnival in February, music, parades, and dancing is a way of life! Shopping boutiques, inviting cafés and a palm-
lined promenade lead the way to the Larnaka Medieval Museum, housed in a 17th Century fort. Not far from Larnaka is the enchanting village of Lefkara, once admired by Leonardo da Vinci for its exquisite handmade lace. Life in the southeastern corner of Cyprus revolves around the sea, with water sports of all kinds readily available. East to Protaras, glorious beaches spread out under the sun, while just inland the white-washed town of Paralimni boasts open-air tavernas known for their succulent grilled fish.
Useful info Temperatures
Paphos
Dec–Feb 16°C Mar–May 20°C Jun–Aug 28°C Sep–Nov 25°C Average daily maximum - guide only
Currency Euro www.xe.com (currency converter)
Further info www.visitcyprus.org.cy
Getting there British Airways www.ba.com Easy Jet www.easyjet.com
Cyprus
Aura Holiday Villas are an exclusive group of 2 and 3 bedroom detached holiday villas in the Coral Bay area of Paphos, Cyprus. Each villa has it’s own private swimming pool and balconies, which all enjoy magnificent and unobstructed views of the Mediterranean Sea. They are elegantly designed and have been built metres away from secluded sandy beaches and local amenities, such as supermarkets and tavernas. The bus stop is 100 metres away and gives easy access to the popular sandy beach of Coral Bay, the fun and exciting nightlife of Kato Paphos, and all the shops of Paphos town.
Prices per week – 2 bedroom villa Low season Mid season High season £330 £550 £990
Contact Tel: 00 357 26935373 Mob: 00 357 99385910 Email: [email protected] www.auravillas.com
30 Choice Villas & Apartments July 2009
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Useful info Temperatures Rome
Dec–Feb 14°C Mar–May 18°C Jun–Aug 28°C Sep–Nov 22°C Average daily maximum - guide only
Currency Euro www.xe.com (currency converter)
Further info www.italiantouristboard.co.uk
Getting there EasyJet www.easyjet.com Alitalia www.alitalia.com
31 Choice Villas & Apartments July 2009
taly is not just a place; Italy is a world-famous cuisine, the most glamorous cars, footballing legends, and some of the most beautiful art, music and architecture the world has ever seen, as well as one of its greatest empires and most influential languages. The country traditionally divides into three mainland areas, plus the islands of Sicily and Sardinia. The north boasts many fascinating cities, including the region’s largest, Milan and Turin, as well as the Alps and the Italian Lakes. The south is dominated by Naples; and has the added attraction of nearby Mount Vesuvius and the excavations at Pompeii and Herculaneum. Between north and south lies the Italy that has become the beloved haunt of distinguished tourists.
I
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t the south-western extremity of Europe, Portugal’s history and culture are inseparable from the sea. Once a great imperial power, it is now better known for sunshine, golf and fortified wine. The Costa de Prata, the Estoril coast and Costa Azul all compete for the attention of tourists, but best known are the beaches and year-round sunshine of the Algarve in the far south. Nature has blessed Portugal’s 850 km of coastline with a bit of everything, from enchanting beaches to varied, breath-taking countryside and the Atlantic coast is prized by surfers and windsurfers across Europe.
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The coastal towns are also rich in Portuguese heritage, discover the colourful seafaring and fishing traditions and end your day by sampling some of the finest fresh fish in the world. Lisbon is the Atlantic capital, blessed with natural beauty and steeped in fascinating history and the only European capital with Atlantic beaches. Take the train along the north bank of the Tagus estuary and discover miles of golden sandy beaches. The beaches of
Estoril and Cascais are home to a number of royal castles – a stunning legacy of the times when the kings of Portugal spent their summers there. Lisbon also has a rich and colourful seafaring heritage, in the 16th century, ships set sail from the beaches of the River Tagus to chart a route to far-off India. The city’s passion for the sea continues to this day, visit the Parque das Nações and you’ll discover Europe’s largest aquarium.
Useful info Temperatures Faro, Algarve Dec–Feb 17°C Mar–May 20°C Jun–Aug 28°C Sep–Nov 23°C Average daily maximum - guide only
Currency Euro www.xe.com (currency converter)
Further info www.visitportugal.com
Getting there EasyJet www.easyjet.com TAP Air Portugal www.tap-airportugal.co.uk
Casa Martin, Nr Loulé
Contact Hugh Cross Tel: 020 7823 2032 (office hours) or 0780 193 1721 Email: [email protected]
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Choice Villas & Apartments July 2009 33
Portugal
Sympathetically converted farmhouse in peaceful, rural surroundings with private swimming pool and terraces. Five mins by car from charming market town of Loulé, excellent for shopping and dining. Faro airport and the coast 20-min drive. Car hire is essential. 1 double and 1 twin bedroom, large shower room and comfortable lounge. Fully-equipped kitchen and dining room. Wood fire and electric radiators. Situated on high ground amongst fields of almond, olive and fig trees with coastal views. Shady tiled covered terrace, large built-in barbecue with tiled dining table and benches. Accommodates 2–4. Prices from £350/wk.
Portugal 34 Choice Villas & Apartments July 2009
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Car hire Flights
• Discount Flights Worldwide • Car Hire • Airport Car Parking • Holiday Insurance DESTINATIONS • Balearics • Canaries • Caribbean • Cyprus • Greece & Islands • Italy • Portugal • Spain • Turkey • USA
Telephone: 0845 045 0152
www.charterflights.co.uk
Insurance for car hire
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Choice Villas & Apartments July 2009 35
LOOK NO FURTHER FOR THE HOLIDAY HOME OF YOUR DREAMS! Now all properties for sale are collected together in their own special section. Villas and apartments for sale, separated into easyto-use country sections with fabulous properties from all around the world.
Timeshare...................................................37 Turkey........................................................38 Spain ........................................................38 Cyprus .....................................................38
Turkey Spain
‘BEST BUYS’ on the Spanish Costas
www.villavalue.com RICHARD A ROOKE
Tel/Fax: 0034 965 320024 E-mail: [email protected]
Cyprus
Independent Property Consultant
38 Choice Villas & Apartments July 2009
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