Have A Fab Holiday Expert
Going abroad, staying in the UK… or not straying from your garden? Here’s how to ensure your holiday runs smoothly
Tips for a stress-free break
Seasonal Fun
If you’re staying at home, you don’t need to break the bank to have good fun. Look in your local newspaper or local authority website to find a comprehensive list of things to do in your area over the summer months. Most counties have summer fêtes, garden walks and kids’ activities going on, so work out a timetable and make the most of everything to offer on your own doorstep. Food and flower shows give a great opportunity to try local produce, and normally include performances from local musicians, etc.
Be Prepared
This is particularly true if you are holidaying in the UK with the ever-variable weather! Although you may have everything you need in your case, keep a few compact essentials close to hand, perhaps in a rucksack. You can invest in cheap and cheerful pack-a-mac coats in case the heavens open, and also a basic first aid kit in case of bumps, bruises or headaches. Take a couple of small bottles of water and some snacks too. Hopefully you will never need these things, but the reassurance they will provide is enough in itself!
Garden Parties
Summer is a time to be outdoors. The therapeutic power of sunshine cannot be overstated, so why not combine great food and drink with the warm weather and head outside for a garden party? Fruit punch, summer cocktails, BBQ classics, this is the time to pack picnics, fire up the grill and sit back in your garden or nearest green space. Why not devise some party games for the kids while you relax?
TTakek Time! Ti !
Give yourself time to enjoy everything – even the journey. If you are flying, make sure you arrive at the airport in plenty of time to get through any check-in queues and through security. Many airlines now give you the chance to speed up this process with online check-in before you leave your house. Check when you book whether this is an option. There may also be the chance to book your seats on the flight, too. If you are travelling in the UK, then planning where to stop for a cuppa and a bite to eat is essential!
Google Maps
It’s not overstating it to say that Google Maps have revolutionised holidays! Whereas in the past you have had to stumble around with unwieldy atlases that were not easy to navigate or use, Google Maps uses the GPS technology on your phone so you can know immediately where you are – and where you need to be – almost anywhere in the world! Simply type in a location, be it a city, landmark or shop and Google Maps will plot the easiest way to get there. Instructions are on your phone screen and even read out. Tourism has never been easier!
Camera Phones
Remember when you had to fret about getting enough film, finding precious space for your camera and the hassle of getting photos developed afterwards? Or praying that your precious pics turn out OK? Mercifully, these days are long gone with mobile phone camera tech up there with the best compact cameras. Not only can you take pics quickly and easy, most phones now have simple editing tricks like sharpening, lightening or darkening your snaps. Best of all, you can take almost as many as you like!
Read Reviews
If you’re going somewhere new, it’s worth going online and reading user reviews to get an idea what the place is like. Sites like TripAdvisor contain millions of reviews for ever ything from restaurants to hotels to tourist attractions. One word of advice, though – don’t just read one review. You might be unlucky enough to click on that one disgruntled user who has had a bad experience! Read a selection of reviews to give yourself a good, balanced indication of visitors’ opinions.
Social Media
Keeping in touch with friends and family while you are away has never been easier. With WhatsApp, Facebook and the like, the world is global village. Just be careful with what you post, so that you’re not broadcasting that your house is empty. Make sure your phone software is up to date before you leave, which also means you will have the latest security features on your device. One thing to watch out for is data charges. Make use of local Wi-Fi whenever you can to keep costs down.