01: Alpine Resort

Alpine Resort

Located in the north of Wisconsin on the banks of a pristine lake, these Log Cabins with Pine interiors are set among some tall white pines. Organized entertainment consists of angling lessons from a dock and stargazing around a campfire.

02: Fair Hills Resort

Fair Hills Resort

Located in northern Minnesota, this resort offers sandcastle competitions, volleyball, tennis and sailing during the day and bingo at night, plus a weekly talent show. This resort prides itself on its number of return visitors.

03: Gray Eagle Lodge

Gray Eagle Lodge

Located in Lakes Basin, California off a two lane road, most visitors have little need for their car once here. Apart from perhaps toasting marshmallows on a campfire, no activities are provided. Cabins do though come complete with day packs as most visitors spend their days hiking around the nearby lakes although a 15ft waterfall feeds a watering hole at the resort.

04: The Hedges

The Hedges

This is located at Blue Mountain Lake, New York since 1880 and has recently found a spot on the National Register of Historic Places. This resort has had many returning guests but few owners, the latest of who, renovated it to return it to its original beauty.

05: Highland Lodge

Highland Lodge

Located in Greensboro, Vermont most of these 11 cottages overlook Caspian Lake where they have a private beach for swimming, canoeing and kayaking. The menus at the lodge reflect its locale and features Vermont Beefalo Burgers with Cabot Cheddar.

06: The Inn at Watervale

The Inn at Watervale

Located in Arcadia, Michigan these 17 cottages started off as lodgings for loggers. Nestled among the sand dunes along the lake shoreline, most guests spend the time climbing the 300ft Old Baldy sand dune and combing the beach for fossils.

07: Migis Lodge

Migis Lodge

Located in South Casco, Maine these 35 stone and wood cottages were founded in 1916. The cottages are scattered over a 125 acre Pine Forest on the banks of Sebago Lake. Entertainment consists of breakfasting on Blueberry pancakes with other guests lakeside and a weekly Lobster bake.

08: Milford House

Milford House

This property that is located in Annapolis Royal, Nova Scotia comprises of 27 cottages and two lakes. Entertainment consists of swimming, picking berries and attending workshops with local artists organized by the lodge.

09: Pow-Wow Point Lodge

Pow-Wow Point Lodge

Located in the lake country north of Toronto, this lodge is on a sandy lakeshore and apart from swimming the lodge have canoes, paddle boats and kayaks available for guests.

10: Three Mile Island

Three Mile Island

Located at Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire  these 47 cabins are really for those that want to go back to basics, they are woken by reveille and spend the days hiking, canoeing or kayaking.

Perhaps the highlight of Port El Kantaoui is its marina though, which has a wonderful collection of restaurants, bars and little shops to enjoy. There is also a traditional hairdresser here, which will happily give you any style you desire for less than the cost of a couple of coffees.

Talking of coffee, it is also not uncommon to be beckoned into one of the marina shops with the promise of Tunisian coffee or mint tea. To we unsuspecting Brits of course, this could mean a commitment to buy, but here in Port El Kantaoui, it is not the case. Simply accepting the drink and taking a browse will not mean you have to buy, though the sales technique is certainly worth enjoying.

The marina is also great for families, and this is certainly the case with the excellent value Pirate Ship, which hosts different meal times through the day. A great fun menu is always offered, along with well-priced local and brand name drinks. It is all about the adventure on the high seas, delivered perfectly by fun staff, and all without leaving the calming waters of the marina.

For something altogether a little more adventurous though, it is easy to get involved in a host of watersports in Port El Kantaoui. From taking a catamaran into deep waters, or kayaking in the shallows, there is something for everyone.

Further afield, but only slightly, Port El Kantaoui is also a great base for checking out one of Tunisia’s premier tourist attractions at Sousse. A wonderful bazaar awaits here, where you can put your haggling skills to the test. With attractions at Dougga also easily accessible, Port El Kantaoui is a great base to explore this wonderful part of northern Africa.

The first thing to understand, however, is that the ‘Pacific Coast Highway’ can describe a number of different routes and expanses of road. Sometimes, people who use this term are referring solely to California State Route 1, which runs approximately 1000 kilometres from Orange County to Mendocino County. On other occasions, the Pacific Coast Highway describes the full expanse of almost 2500 miles of road which covers most of the West Coast of the USA. The most classic definition, however, is that of the tourist route which stretches from San Diego in south California to Redwood National Forest in the north of the state.

Pacific Coast Highway

Most tourists start in the south, which means a visit to San Diego, the eighth largest city in the United States. Often underestimated in comparison to Los Angeles and San Francisco, it offers a wide range of cultural and sporting activities, and is particularly blessed with beautiful beaches and wildlife. In particular, the first stretches of the Pacific Coast Highway offer a spectacular drive through Torrey Pines State Reserve to the right, and just above gorgeous beaches to the left. Amazing views of the Pacific continue for miles, and a tourist with time on their hands can drive slowly enough to take it all in during the two hours it will take to reach the outskirts of Los Angeles.

Of course, anyone who has ever seen a Hollywood movie or an LA based TV show will know all about the attractions of the City of Angels. Glorious beaches and magnificent skyscrapers greet any tourist who wants to stop off in this metropolitan area, although going into the city itself risks being caught up in almost perpetual traffic jams. Most will stick by the coast and continue along the Pacific, enjoying the changing scenery as the Pacific Coast Highway becomes even more spectacular. Most tourists consider this to be finest scenery on any road in the United States. A particular highlight can be found at Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, which offers extraordinary hiking trails and wildlife viewing. The number of visitors to this area is subject to a strict daily limit, however, so make sure to time your trip to become one of the lucky few who can take full advantage of the park. Eventually, the highway rises all the way up into the cliffs of Big Sur, and continues to the beautiful city of Monterey in central California.

After Monterey, the Pacific Coast Highway continues for over 100 miles to San Francisco, where weary drivers can stop off to sample cuisines from all over the world, along with fine theatre, music, and sights such as Alcatraz Island. After that, the highway continues for several hundred more miles, all the way up to Crescent City and the Redwood State National Park. Here, nature-loving visitors can experience these most ancient and impressive of trees, and hike for miles under their canopy.

Overall, then, it can be seen that a road trip on the Pacific Coast Highway takes in some of the best sights that the West Coast has to offer. Since it begins in San Diego and ends near several major towns, tourists have easy access to hire cars in order to be able to complete the journey without logistical difficulty. In contrast to some other countries, car rental US style is simple and commonplace, and often includes significant warranty and breakdown cover. This is important on the Pacific Coast Highway, given the variable climate and sometimes sparsely populated areas through which the route passes. Make sure that you choose your rental car with care, and you will be sure to enjoy the trip of a lifetime.

01: Cháteau de Versailles, Versailles, France

Cháteau de Versailles, Versailles, France

250 acres of garden set out for King Louis X1V in the 17^th century southwest of Paris. The gardens have plenty of paths, ornamental lakes and even a canal where the King took Gondola rides.

02: Royal Botanic Gardens of Kew, Kew, Surrey, England

Royal Botanic Gardens of Kew, Kew, Surrey, England

This is 326 acres of landscaped gardens complete with greenhouses, just 10 miles from London. It features the largest Victorian greenhouse and a Bonsai garden which has trees that are more than 150 years old. Below a sloping glass roof, ten climate zones are represented.

03: Powerscourt Gardens, County Wicklow, Ireland

Powerscourt Gardens, County Wicklow, Ireland

This is 47 acres of formal walled gardens with shaded ponds, waterfalls and pavilions, south of Dublin. Inspired by the renaissance in Italy, the gardens and walkways were all carefully designed for maximum enjoyment with the Wicklow Mountains as a backdrop.

04: Butchart Gardens, Vancouver Island, British Columbia

Butchart Gardens, Vancouver Island, British Columbia

This 55 acre garden was once a cement quarry, using soil from nearby farms in 1904 it was transformed into gardens that house 700 varieties of plants that all bloom between March and September.

05: Villa de’Este, Tivoli, Italy

Villa de’Este, Tivoli, Italy

A run down monastery was transformed into a Villa with gardens. Listed as one of Italy’s top 31 historical sites by UNESCO, this is one of the most interesting garden and fountain complexes in the world. It features the Avenue of 100 Fountains and many of the fountains are very interesting, such as animal heads, that all spurt water.

06: Dumbarton Oaks, Washington, D.C.

Dumbarton Oaks, Washington, D.C.

These gardens are situated on an estate in the ‘posh’ area of the town, at the north end of Georgetown. It features a walled fountain terrace covered in vines and a lover’s lane, Roman style amphitheater and a deep blue pool.

07: Gardens of the Villa Éphrussi de Rothschild, St. Jean Cap Ferrat, France

Gardens of the Villa Éphrussi de Rothschild, St. Jean Cap Ferrat, France

Paths lead through seven themed gardens, that include Japanese and exotic gardens. There are fountains, a Lily pad dotted pond and a Temple of Love.

08: Stourhead, Warminster, England

Stourhead, Warminster, England

A member of the English gentry in the 18^th century, Henry Hoare 11, had built in these gardens, replicas of the Pantheon and the Temple of Apollo.

09: The Master of Nets Garden, Suzhou, China

The Master of Nets Garden, Suzhou, China

Built sometime during the song Dynasty (A.D. 960 – 1270) Features pavilions, music rooms, halls and a Bamboo grove, all designed and created in natural harmony. In the central section, piles of yellow stones make up mountains, complete with caverns.

10: Sans Souci, Potsdam, Germany

Sans Souci, Potsdam, Germany

These are the gardens of Rococo Palace, built for Frederick the Great of Prussia and they feature Busts of Roman Emperors, statues and a Chinese teahouse.

Es Vedra

Es Vedra

An uninhabited rocky island located to the south west of Ibiza, Es Vedra is steeped in mysticism and folklore. Said to be the ancient home of mermaids and more recently for the Carmelite monk Don Francisco Palau, today the island is a stunning feature of the seascape with intricate rock formations and, when bathed in moonlight, is a place of immense spiritual beauty. A boat trip around the island to view the resident goats and seabirds is a must.

Can Marçà Caves

Can Marçà Caves

Located on the north side of the island in the port of Sant Miquel, the Can Marçà caves are one of Ibiza’s premier attractions. Dating from over 100,000 years, the caves feature beautiful stalactites, underground streams and a 30 foot waterfall that is sure to inspire visitors. Once the hiding place of goods smuggled onto the island, the alternative escape routes which smugglers planned to use in the event of discovery can still be seen marked on the cave walls.

Cala d’Albarca

Cala d’Albarca

One of the island’s most unspoilt and isolated coves, Cala d’Albarca is a little tricky to reach on foot but well-worth the effort for those who venture there. Although the beach has been covered by fallen rocks, the crystal-clear waters which are perfect for swimming, the pine-clad slopes surrounding the cove and the eighteenth century watch towers constructed by locals to spot pirates, make this an unmissable sight off the beaten track.

Ibiza Dalt Vila

Ibiza Dalt Vila

The old town of Ibiza is a delight for a leisurely stroll, with 16th century walls encircling the town, narrow cobbled streets and grand medieval houses. With the castle and cathedral dominating the town at the highest point and affording fine views, there’s plenty here to enjoy and not to be missed.

With a rich tapestry of cultural and historic attractions, not to mention the local markets, expansive sandy beaches and buzzing nightlife, Ibiza has much to offer the traveller, whatever style of holiday you are seeking. With regular two-hour flights from the UK and a pleasant year-long climate, it’s the perfect destination for a short break or longer stay.

Walt Disney World Resort

Walt Disney World Resort

Developed in the 1960s, Disney World is definitely not the newest attraction to grace Florida, but with its constantly changing scenery and new rides added throughout the years, there is always something new and exciting for everyone to enjoy. Recently, the resort has created a new Fantasyland, located within the depths of the Magic Kingdom, full of magic and mystery, something that the whole family will remember forever.

There are two new themed areas within Fantasyland: the Enchanted Forest and Storybook Circus. Both these areas allow you and your children to meet Disney characters, watch amazing shows and stunts, and lose yourself in the imagination of another world.

SeaWorld Orlando

SeaWorld Orlando

SeaWorld Orlando is opening its next biggest attraction: Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin. Due to open in spring 2013, this display is bound to be one of the next major locations to visit when in Florida. Immerse yourself in a wealth of frozen delights, delve into 9000ft of ice and see the world through the eyes of a penguin, most definitely a popular amusement for the kids. The attraction is replacing Penguin Encounter, an indoor exhibit including puffins and other creatures.

The Kennedy Space Centre

The Kennedy Space Centre

Space Shuttle Atlantis will be making an appearance at the Kennedy Space Centre in 2013. The shuttle will then be housed there permanently for everyone to see, enjoy and learn from. After orbiting the Earth 4,848 times, it’s about time that Atlantis took a breather and simply aired itself to the public.

You’ll be able to see the inner workings of the shuttle, taking in a spectacular instrument of technology and space travel. Before you get to see revolutionary space travel, you’ll need to travel to Florida first! Find the best deals at cheapflights.co.uk this summer, and make sure you have an adventure of a lifetime!

Universal Orlando Resort

Universal Orlando Resort

A brand new ride, built to replace the Jimmy Neutron attraction at Universal Orlando, is one of the most exciting things to happen in the resort in recent years. Its newest attraction is based on Despicable Me, a fun-filled and exhilarating film, perfect for the entire family. Get ready to become involved in Gru’s mayhem induced empire, helping him and all his minions wreak havoc on anyone that they can find.

The Orlando resort have also stated that their attraction, The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man, will be renovated and completely reanimated in order to make your visit an even more thrilling and spectacular experience.

01: Great Barrier Reef, Australia

Great Barrier Reef, Australia

The reef is 1,600 miles long and is considered to be one of the seven natural wonders of the world. It is said to be the source of the most diverse life forms on earth and is known to be home to no less than thirty species of Whales.

02: Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe/Zambia

Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe/Zambia

The falls are made up of six separate gorges, each one with its own history. More recently access to the falls has become easier and more discoveries have been made about them but it is known that they are ancient and mans presence around them has been for at least 10,000 years.

03: Suez Canal, Egypt

Suez Canal, Egypt

This is a man made waterway that took ten years to build. If not for this canal, a vast amount of the world’s shipping would have to sail all around Africa. The canal was opened for shipping in 1869 at a cost of twice the original estimate.

04: Dead Sea, Israel

Dead Sea, Israel

It is called the Dead Sea because no known form of life can survive these deadly waters. The water is three times more salty than regular sea water and to swim in it, is akin to swimming in jelly. It does though make for easy floating.

05: Canals of Venice, Italy

Canals of Venice, Italy

There are 150 canals in Venice and they are used as the cities streets. No cars are allowed in the city and so the only form of transport other than boat is by foot. Although the largest canal is two miles long, the depth of the canals is only 16.5 ft, prohibiting larger boats from using them.

06: Li River, China

Li River, China

This River offers a great diversity in landscape over a very short distance, from flat ground to river gorges and flat again. A short cruise of just four or five hours can afford a visitor all the changes in scenery that the river has to offer.

07: Huanglong Valley, China

Huanglong Valley, China

This is possibly one of the most beautiful sights on earth. Huanglong means Yellow Dragon and it gets its name from the large calcium deposits in the water. When the sun shines on the river, the deposits appear golden. From the air the river appears like a yellow dragon winding its way through the forest.

08: Lake Como, Italy

Lake Como, Italy

Because of its natural beauty, this lake has been the home for many of the rich and famous. Surrounded by a landscape of scenic beauty, it has attracted visitors for many years and also offers the possibility of many water sports.

09: Lake Baikal, Russia

Lake Baikal, Russia

This Lake holds records for being the oldest lake in the world, at least 25 million years old. It also holds 20% of the planets unfrozen fresh water and so is the largest lake, by content in the world and it is perhaps also the deepest lake in the world with depths of 1,600 feet.

10: Svartifoss Waterfall, Iceland

Svartifoss Waterfall, Iceland

This is by no means the largest waterfall in the world, nor is it the most beautiful but its fame comes from what looks like the color of the water. The name means Black Falls and the color of the water appears to be black. This is an illusion though, the waters are actually clear but the black lava, which is a backdrop to the falls, lends their color to the water as it washes over it.

The truth is that the top mixed drinks were not invented in just one place, they come from all around the planet and the secrets were often brought home by sailors and why not? What better place to enjoy a good cocktail than on a sun drenched beach?

Here is a list of the top 10 beach drinks:

01: Pina Colada, Puerto Rico

Pina Colada, Puerto Rico

As a cocktail made from Pineapple, Coconut and Rum, Pina Colada’s had been enjoyed for a hundred years when in 1950, a barman at the Oasis Bar in San Juan perfected it by using Cream of Coconut.

02: Caipirinha, Brazil

Caipirinha, Brazil

This is a cocktail made from sugar, lime and Cachaca. Cachaca is a fermented drink made from sugarcane juice. Even vendors on the beaches sell this. Variations can be made of this by adding different fruit juices.

03: Mai Tai, Polynesia

Mai Tai, Polynesia

Made from a mix of Rum, Orange Curacao and Orgeat Syrup (a derivative of almonds) on first tasting this in a bar called ‘Hinky Dink’ in Oakland in 1944, a Polynesian guest exclaimed “maita’I ro’a ‘ae”, meaning ‘out of this world’ and the name stuck.

04: Red Stripe Beer, Jamaica

After Jamaica received Independence in 1962, a British journalist suggested that Jamaica had really been independent since it started brewing Red Stripe in 1928. It is now the most popular beer in the Caribbean.

05: Daiquiri, Cuba

Daiquiri, Cuba

06: Margarita, Mexico

There seems to be conflicts as to the origin of this mix of Tequila, Cointreau and Lime juice served in a glass rimmed with salt. The legends of its origin are from Acapulco or Tijuana and so this most popular of tequila cocktails definitely started in Mexico.

07: Limoncello, Italy

Limoncello, Italy

When faced with a surplus of lemons, the Italian farmers placed peel in alcohol and added sugar. This is rapidly becoming the cocktail of choice along the Amalfi coast of southern Italy.

08: Cape Codder, Massachusetts

Cape Codder, Massachusetts

A mix of Vodka and Cranberry, this drink was named after the cape that is famous for growing Cranberries.

09: Rosé, Cóte d’Azur, France

Rosé, Cóte d’Azur, France

A long time favorite at Saint Tropez, this pink wine is supposedly made by removing the skins from the red grapes after crushing. Thought of to be a less serious drink than either red or white wines.

10: Gin and Tonic, India

Gin and Tonic, India

When the British in India were advised to drink Gin as an anti-malarial, the taste was a little bitter to them. They then discovered that adding tonic and perhaps a squeeze of lime, the drink was very refreshing. It has remained popular even though the British left India.

Here are probably the top 10 family resorts which feature family friendly beaches:

01: Coast Guard Beach, Eastham, Massachusetts

Coast Guard Beach, Eastham, Massachusetts

Situated on endless miles of beach on the Cape Cod National Coastline, free family campfire nights and ranger –guided nature walks are among the attractions. Paddling and bilking can be part of the day, followed by kiddies meals served on Frisbees to finish off.

02: Coopers Beach, Southampton, New York

Coopers Beach, Southampton, New York

Spot the famous at this Hampton’s treat. Enjoy this gently sloping beach with lifeguards in attendance and mansions to the side. Whilst here enjoy looking through the shops along the quaint tree lined lanes.

03: Hanalei Bay Beach, Kauai, Hawaii

A beautiful 2 mile long beach that affords spectacular views of the Emerald Mountains with their glistening waterfalls. This is an ideal place to learn to surf on the calmer waters during the summers.

04: Kiawah Beachwalker Park, Kiawah Island, South Carolina

Kiawah Beachwalker Park, Kiawah Island, South Carolina

A pristine barrier island 20 miles south of Charleston. Here you can Kayak through preserved mangrove lagoons or relax on the beach but don’t miss the weekly Oyster roast or BBQ as you watch the sunset.

05: Santa Cruz Beach, Santa Cruz, California

Santa Cruz Beach, Santa Cruz, California

This is home to the last great amusement park on the West Coast. There are plenty of rides for the kids and for a break from the beach, from the promenade, take the Roaring Camp Railroad to the majestic forest of Redwoods.

06: Siesta Beach, Siesta Key, Florida

Siesta Beach, Siesta Key, Florida

This boasts the whitest and finest sands in the world with its ‘powdered sugar’ feeling sand which is 99% quartz. Manatees, Dolphin and Pelicans are common sights from here and the Siesta Key Village is renowned for being kid friendly.

07: Coronado Central Beach, Colorado, California

Coronado Central Beach, Colorado, California

With 15 miles of designated pathways for biking or rollerblading, the teens will be fine. Sandcastle and kiting are available on the beach for younger ones. Of course there is also boogie boarding and surfing on the warm waters.

08: Crane Beach, Ipswich, Massachusetts

Crane Beach, Ipswich, Massachusetts

Situated north of Boston, this is often referred to as the other cape. Trails through sand dunes and past salt water pools will keep many amused and home made sandwiches or fried clams will keep everybody fed.

09: Stinson Beach, Stinson Beach, California

Stinson Beach, Stinson Beach, California

3 ½ miles of amazing coastline with hang gliding, kayaking and surfing. Take the trail through 700ft Redwoods followed by an inventive flavored ice cream from Flying Pig Ranch.

10: Lifeguard Beach, Ocracoke Island, North Carolina

Lifeguard Beach, Ocracoke Island, North Carolina

If 16 miles of unspoiled beaches isn’t enough for you then visit the Lighthouse or the exhibit about Blackbeard the Pirate who frequented here.

Frankie and Johnnie’s

You could of course stick with the traditionally Show followed by diner, such as seeing the latest offering of “Mary Poppins” at the New Amsterdam theatre followed by a steak with sides of spinach and frizzled onions, at the famous nearby “Frankie and Johnnie’s” . Or perhaps the other way round by starting with a homemade Pasta and a glass of wine at “La Masseria,” before going on to see  “Chicago the Musical” at the “Ambassador Theatre”.

There are though many other options with nightclubs and bars all over the city, there are bound to be something that appeals to your tastes. Here is a selection of a few just to indicate the diversity that exists.

Art Bars – Bars such as the (Le) Poisson Rouge offer examples of the arts, in an environment where you can take a drink whilst enjoying the display.

Bar Lounge

Bar/Lounge – At the “Alligator Lounge” a good crowd is always assured by the fact that between 6pm and 2am free pizza is served with every drink.

Blues Clubs

Blues Clubs – “Terra Blues” hosts some of the nation’s best blues performers. Featured artists start at 10pm nightly.

David Copperfield’s House of Beer

Beer Houses – At “David Copperfield’s House of Beer” on offer are over 30 beers on tap and over 100 choices of bottled beer.

The Fat Black Pussycat

Billiard Halls – “The Fat Black Pussycat” offers three rooms, one for billiards, one for cards and one with a DJ. There is something for nearly everyone.

Underground Lounge

Comedy Clubs – At the “Underground Lounge” you can relax in comfort whilst enjoying music and comedy.

DJs – As well as providing large TV screens throughout for the sports fans, the “Latitude” offers a late night dinner menu whilst a DJ plays the latest New York hits.

The Stonewall Inn

Karaoke – At the “The Stonewall Inn” a different event is featured every night, ranging from Bingo to Karaoke.

Bar Matchless

Live Music – The “Bar Matchless” used to be an auto-repair shop but has now become a mecca for live music fans, featuring NYC based acts.

Clock 200 Fifth

Sports Bar – located in one of Brooklyn’s coziest district, the “200 Fifth” offers fare, ranging from Buffalo Wings to Fettuccini ‘a la Mendy’   with Alfredo sauce. Offerings of live music are usual for the weekends.

The Whiskey Ward

Whiskey Bars – “The Whiskey Ward” backs up its name with an impressive choice of single malts and bourbons. This is a popular gathering place for whiskey fans.

These are just a sample of what New York has to offer, there are also gay bars, pubs and bowling venues to choose from.

New York, like most major cities, hosts many events and special performances and so it is always advisable to look up an events calendar for the city before you visit. If you haven’t, then look in the local press for activities for the dates that you are there. Regardless of special events or not, the variety of nightlife on offer will ensure that your stay will be eventful and the “city that doesn’t sleep” will keep you entertained through the night.