Easter Holiday Ideas for Sun Seekers

Posted on April 3, 2014 by worldwideinsure

Easter Holiday Ideas for Sun Seekers

The weather may be warm in the UK right now, but if you are a dedicated sun seeker, you might be in search of warmer climates over the Easter break – especially as the British Bank Holiday has a reputation unto itself! If you were wondering where in the world it might be hot and sunny in April, this is the definitive list of desirable destinations!

Europe

Head south! With temperatures in the low 20s and as much as 6 hours of daylight to squeeze in sunbathing, water sports or whatever else takes your fancy – southern Europe is an excellent idea at this time of year.

Spain – We recently wrote about a city break to Barcelona. Located on the south coast of Spain, you can expect plenty of sun and fun rolled into one.

Malta – Great if you want to squeeze in some sightseeing as well as soak up some sun. There is also a growing trend for tourists taking medical holidays here.

Ggantija temples gozo

Malta temples – Ggantija temples gozo by Ronny Siegel

 

 

 

 

 

Sardinia – Beat the crowds by visiting this gorgeous island off the coast of Italy now. In the summer months it is packed to the rafters with tourists.

Middle East

This part of the world is unbearably hot in the summer, and often dogged by unpleasant weather in the winter. That means that springtime is the perfect time to travel to the Middle East. Expect temperatures to be in the high 20s to early 30s and the days to be as long as 13 hours.

Turkey – Antalya is the best place to be at this time of the year. Lots of sun, long days, plenty of beach and a great deal of culture too.

Egypt – Take in the sights at Giza, head for a city break in Cairo or make your way to the Red Sea where you can surf, scuba dive and sunbathe, and stay in dedicated resorts.

Morocco – Marrakech is hot, exotic and luxurious. Spas, shopping and golf excursions curiously mix with the tradition and fantasy of Arabian life.

 

Essaouira by Patrick Nouhailler

Essaouira by Patrick Nouhailler

Caribbean

A perfect part of the planet which is at its best in the springtime. Temperatures are a balmy average of 31 degrees and there are around 12 hours of daylight to spend lapping up the luxury of a Caribbean break at these top destinations.

Jamaica – Great food, stunning scenery and of course the home of a laid back vibe. If you are fond of outdoor activities Jamaica also offers a selection of fun things to do such as hiking, snorkelling, kite surfing, scuba diving and horse riding.

Dunn Falls Jamaica

Dunn Falls Jamaica by Ricardo Mangual

Barbados – The dream sunshine break? Sun, sand, sea and a reggae soundtrack. Barbados is a great place to party at night and kick back and relax during the day.

Tobago – This is the ultimate beach retreat. There is no place better on the planet to feel the stress melt away while you sit on a beach with a cold cocktail in hand.

 

This is a fab list of favourite destinations, but a word of warning if you are heading to any of them over the Easter holidays – Don’t take your Easter eggs – they WILL melt!

Posted in Single Trip Travel Insurance, Travel Advice, Travel Insurance | Leave a comment

Tipping Bird – Travel App of the Month

Posted on March 27, 2014 by worldwideinsure

Tipping Bird – Travel App of the Month March 2014!

What if one simple app could save you all of the embarrassment in the world? Well – good news, it can! Okay, it might not stop you tripping over in front of you partner’s parents, but it will at least advise you on how to politely tip the service at different locations around the globe.

Meet Tipping Bird – your restaurant companion from here on in.

So What Does Tipping Bird Do?

This crafty accompaniment to your app collection handily helps you add a gratuity of an acceptable amount depending on what country you’re dining in. We know what you’re thinking – isn’t a 10% tip pretty customary? Nope!

In the USA the average tip is around 19%, in the Dominican Republic you’ll be disgraced if you don’t put down 10%, 6% will suffice in Norway, and for the generous folk of Iceland, a tip is not necessary at all. In fact, in many locations worldwide, incorrect tipping is a topic that leads to great tension and offence.  Thankfully Tipping Bird is here to guide you on what percentage of the bill is the right amount to put down.

One small piece of advice – check your bill to see if a gratuity is already included in the expected payment. Overpaying can be just as offensive in some cultures as underpaying.

Additional Features

As well as sparing you red-cheeks-aplenty in restaurant situations, this app also handily covers the etiquette of taxis, bars, hotel maids and porters, and even organised tours.

Tipping Bird Reviews

Most reviews give it a full five stars, stating that it has accurate and up-to-date information that is helpful in an array of locations and situations. Some users, however, have reported that it’s a little buggy, and it doesn’t include every country on the map so make sure it’s relevant to your travels before installing.

WARNING: ANDROID ONLY!

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.jeremydw.tippingbird 

 

C:\Users\victoria.spall\Desktop\tipping_bird_logo.png

Posted in Travel Advice, travel apps | Leave a comment

Dangerous Holiday Destinations – Should You Still Travel?

Posted on March 20, 2014 by worldwideinsure

Dangerous Destinations – Should You Stay or Should You Go Anyway?

What do you do when disaster strikes your holiday destination – change your travel plans, or go anyway? It is a sensitive question, but one that has faced far too many holidaymakers over the years.

In the event of a natural disaster, or when political turmoil is affecting a country, it makes going on holiday seems a rather frivolous affair and rather less important in the grand scheme of things than it was at first. As such, you might find yourself wondering if it is still right to take that yearned-for vacation.

gaza 01 – by stitchingkifal

If you are facing a moral dilemma like this at the moment – here are 5 questions you should ask yourself before you make your mind up.

Personal Safety

This is a number one priority and it might seem like a bit of a no-brainer, but is it safe enough? The best way to find out is to view the official Government site on travel advice. This gives a clear outline of what the dangers are, where they are and whether you should be reconsidering your travel plans. Bear in in mind that travel warnings related to personal safety can affect your travel insurance, so be sure to check with your travel insurance provider before departure if you decide to go.

Unwelcome guests

You also need to ask yourself – will I be welcome at my destination? Some travel experts suggest turning to social media to find out if your hosts will welcome you. Is the country promoting tourism? Are travel companies offering deals? These could be signs that whatever incident has happened is well behind them and that the country is trying to improve its lot by getting tourists back! Alternatively, there may be clear social signals that tourists will not be tolerated.

A relaxing break vs. an essential trip

The reasons for your travel are also a deciding factor. Are you going on holiday for a relaxing break? If the answer is yes, but there is still tension or turmoil at your destination, then you may well prefer to postpone your holiday until another time. If your trip is not essential, your presence may be considered inappropriate.

Checking your insurance and weighing up the options

Finally, you should check what your travel insurance covers. If you decide not to travel, can you get your money back? Although the decision whether to travel or not may be a moral one, you might find that in the face of losing a hefty chunk of savings, you’ll risk the journey anyway. Do make sure with your insurance provider that you will still be covered – but better still, make sure that you choose travel insurance that will protect you in the event of a disaster at your destination.

Posted in Safety when travelling | Leave a comment

Immunisation Advice For First Time Travellers

Posted on March 13, 2014 by worldwideinsure

If you are about to embark on your first holiday of a lifetime, you’ll probably be wrapped up in the excitement (and nerves!) that travelling brings – there’s so much to look forward to! But, despite the adventurous buzz, it is essential that you do not overlook the formalities of travelling abroad.

One of the most important things you need to do before you go away is ensure you’re safe and healthy for your travels – which means finding out if you need to get yourself immunised. To help you make sense amidst the excitement, we’ve put together some top tips for making sure you’re prepared for the journey ahead.

Do Your Research

The vaccinations that you might require differ depending on what country you’re visiting. Each location will leave you susceptible to a specific set of illnesses, so it’s very important to know what dangers are presented in each place so you can be properly immunised and avoid coming down with anything nasty. Some vaccinations are fairly standard – hepatitis, rabies, and tuberculosis, for example, are necessary in many locations. You’ll also find that some vaccinations are free on the NHS because they are considered high risk if they were to come back into the country, so you can get shots for diseases such as cholera and typhoid usually at no cost to yourself.

Think About Your Circumstances

Being prepared doesn’t just mean thinking about the country you’re going to – there are lots of variables to consider when undergoing immunisation. For example, some diseases are more common during different seasons. Also consider aspects such as your age and general health, whether you’re likely to encounter animals, and what sort of holiday you’re going for. If you’re likely to engage in aid work or enter a medical environment, you’ll probably need additional vaccines.

Time it Well

If you’re taking a lengthy trip abroad, chances are you’re going to encounter several different environments that require varying vaccinations. In short, this means lots of jabs! To avoid any unnecessary side effects – or just a very sore arm – try to spread them out.

Be Mindful of Advice

Just because someone says you don’t have to show proof of a certain vaccination, it certainly doesn’t mean you don’t need to get it. Establishments such as travel agents or embassies might tell you that you don’t need certification of a jab, but if you’ve been told you’re at risk of the disease it prevents – get it!

Secure Proof

Remember that you will be asked to show proof at the borders that you have had the appropriate vaccinations, so keep your certificates safe and available.

Be Aware of Side Effects

As with any medicine, there is always the chance that during immunisation you’ll experience some ill effects. Try to avoid getting your jabs last minute, because you won’t be able to travel if you aren’t well – and if you are worried about the effects you’re feeling, do not hesitate to seek medical advice.

Being prepared is the best way to ensure you eventually have the most fun possible on your travels, so read up, jab up, and go have a good time! Au revoir!

Even with the right immunasions in place, there is still a risk of illness when travelling abroad. Make sure you have adequate cover by contacting our travel insurance advisors.

Posted in Safety when travelling, Travel Advice | Leave a comment

5 Fab Things To Do In Barcelona! Travel Guide

Posted on March 6, 2014 by worldwideinsure

5 Fab Things To Do In Barcelona!

If you fancy jetting off on a weekend city break, then Barcelona is a hot spot of culture, fun, frolics and of course fiestas! Uniting beach with the buzz of city life, you’ll find plenty of great things to do on your break. Here are our top recommendations.

 1: Find Your Feet

There is no better way to explore the vibe of Barcelona than on foot. This way you get to take in the wonderful architecture, smell the fabulous food on offer and of course breathe in the laid back atmosphere that this cosmopolitan city exudes.  If you find your feet getting a little tired, then there are plenty of places to catch the metro. Just make sure that you pick up a city map before you lose your bearings!

2. Amble Along Las Rambla

Las Rambla is a pedestrianized tree-lined avenue that runs through the old town. Stretching from Playa Catalunya down to the seafront, it is just over a kilometre long – perfect for a gentle stroll. Bear in mind that it is a place that attracts lots of tourists, which unfortunately means that pickpockets like the area too. Expect to see lots of street performers, great to watch while you stop and enjoy the food and drink at one of the many cafes and bars.

3. Go To Park Guell

Also known as Gaudi Park to tourists, Park Guell is a magnificent feat of creativity where modernist architecture mixes with the incredible décor. The park was originally intended as a private development for the wealthier residents of Barcelona – unfortunately the venture was a commercial failure. Allow a good couple of hours to explore the area. There is plenty to see without having to pay to get into the main development area – but it is well worth it if you do!

Park Guell, Barcelona

Park Guell, Barcelona Park by George M. Groutas

4. See A Bit More Gaudi at Sagrada Familia

From the top of Park Guell, you’ll be able to see the Sagrada Familia – Basilica and Expiatory Church of the Holy Family, rising out of the city like a monolith. Your next challenge is to get to it by foot to marvel at the architectural talents involved! The walk should be about half an hour, at a leisurely pace of course – but make sure you have your map. The buildings are quite imposing in the city, and believe it or not, you will soon lose sight of this towering giant! The Basilica was designed by Gaudi, and believe it or not building work started in 1882, and it is still in progress!

5. Taste The Delights of Tapas and Sangria

A trip to Spain surely isn’t complete until you have tucked into some tapas and quenched your thirst with Sangria! There are loads of places to sit and eat – indoors and outdoors, all year round. In the cooler months restaurants in the plazas bring out an army of patio heaters to make dining al fresco a pure pleasure. Your biggest struggle will be deciding where to go and eat!

Barcelona – Tapas Bar

Barcelona – Tapas Bar by Adam Wyles

Festival Fever – a short note

The Catalans love to party, and during some months you’ll find there is more than a festival a week! When you book a Barcelona break, bear in mind that festivals often mean bank holidays, and if a weekend is going to be a long one, then many people in Barcelona take most of the week off anyway. Great if you want to party, not so great if you are going for a spot of retail therapy.

Posted in Single Trip Travel Insurance, The places we've been, Travel Insurance | Leave a comment

Fog of World Travel App Of The Month

Posted on February 27, 2014 by worldwideinsure

Fog of World Travel App Of The Month Feb 2014!

Travellers, Explorers, World Conquerors… an app has arrived that is sure to heighten the experience of every adventure you set out upon! Meet Fog of World, the travel companion you’ll be glad you found!

What does it do?

In short, Fog of World is a GPS system that gradually uncovers different areas of the globe as you explore them! The map is covered in a thick layer of virtual fog, and with your phone in pocket you can see in one quick sweep how much of the world you’ve explored thus far. Whether it’s for your own personal gain or because your competitive nature can’t help but compare with friends, you’ll find this app immensely satisfying.

Additional features

In addition to a map of the world displaying your path, you can also see your achievements in more detail. The app cleverly displays progress bars for each continent so you can monitor how much of each location is left to be travelled! If you’re keen to know in greater depth exactly how much of a conqueror you truly are, you can view the continents one-by-one and see the km2 that you still have left to see, plus a flag checklist of your successfully visited countries. The map also uncovers itself road by road, so if you aren’t planning any lengthy adventures you can still check out your progress locally.

If, like the rest of us, you can’t help showing off to friends and family with postcards and holiday pictures, then you’ll also love the Achievements feature! Fog of World caringly monitors your travel progress and awards badges within the app for certain milestones, such as ‘Flying Man’ once you have visited five countries, and “Europe Star” for the dedicated Europe visitor who makes a whopping ten trips.

Fog of World Reviews

There are some impressive accolades for this wonderful travel app, although some users have commented on the fact that it takes up rather a lot more battery power than desired as the GPS system runs in the background.

“We don’t remember the last time we’ve run into an app that is as interesting as Fog of World” – Kevin Smith, Business Insider.

“This Fog of World app might be the funnest app I’ve seen in a long time” – Casey Chan, Gizmodo.

“Fog of World turns moving through your city and your world into a game of exploration. Just watch your battery! 8/10” – Paula DuPont, appstorm.

http://en.fogofworld.com/

Posted in Travel Advice, travel apps | Leave a comment

The Cheapest Ways to Take Out Your Holiday Cash

Posted on February 20, 2014 by worldwideinsure

 

Organising holiday money is something of an after-thought for many of us, while others sort out spending money weeks in advance. But either way, you could well be paying too much to get hold of your cash. Help is at hand, however, with these top tips for side-stepping or at least reducing transaction fees.

50 Euros Going Down The Drain By Images Money

 

  • Consider a specialist credit card that does not add a percentage-based fee on to currency exchange rates. While these cards can slash your ATM fees, you should make sure you pay any funds back in full each month, thereby side-stepping high interest charges. Set up a Direct Debit to ensure this happens. Card issuers really want you to use the card in the UK where bigger ATM fees are levied – so don’t!

 

  • Beware debit cards: relying on your debit card while abroad is lazy and could cost you a great deal! High withdrawal fees, load fees, minimum charges and spending penalties all add up. Some cards are much worse than others, so check your card’s fees before you even think about using it overseas.

 

  • Consider getting a pre-paid credit card. These cards give you all the power of a real credit card but offer complete control over your cash – since it is all yours. Lower ATM fees are another plus point. In addition, you only need to load the amount you require from your current account, protecting your main funds from card-cloning/fraud. If you have a poor credit rating a pre-paid card could be ideal.

 

  • Euros for debit cards, pounds for specialist cards! Holidaying on the European mainland? When using your card in a shop, if you’re asked whether you want to pay in pounds or euros, always choose euros. Opting for pounds will trigger a bad exchange rate. However, a specialist credit card will offer a great exchange rate for GBP, so if you have one, say ‘pounds’!

 

  • Take note of ATM fees. These can vary from bank to bank, so it’s a good idea to find out which is cheapest. Some ATM networks are free, so research your destination country before you set off. For example, the Bank of Canadia in Cambodia offers free withdrawals.

 

  • Give foreign exchange offices a wide berth. These offer poor exchange rates, especially in airports. If you must use their services, you may get a better rate if you order in advance.

 

  • Buying cash with a card? Avoid using your credit card – your issuer will charge a fee. In this case, your debit card is the way to go, since such fees are prohibited with this card type.
Posted in Travel Advice | Leave a comment

10 Tips to Prevent Your Belongings Being Stolen Whilst Abroad

Posted on February 13, 2014 by worldwideinsure

Being mugged or pick-pocketed, or having your belongings stolen whilst backpacking is uncommon, but it does happen. Bad luck plays a part, but there are many things you can do to minimise the chances of such an occurrence.

  1. Take a padlock with you, and use it to secure your guest house/hotel room. This is particularly important in budget accommodation or in areas where crime is high. It can also be used to secure lockers.
  2. Use an old or tatty looking backpack. This dissuades thieves because they think you have nothing of value!
  3. Pack a single, small backpack of around 30-40 litres. You can then keep your backpack with you when travelling on buses or trains. Bigger backpacks often have to be stowed where you can’t keep an eye on them.
  4. Make a fake wallet. Take an old wallet and fill it with expired bank cards and a few notes. If someone demands your wallet, give them the fake one.
  5. If a mugger demands your money/wallet, be sure to comply – but don’t make any sudden movements towards your pockets. They may think you are reaching for a weapon.
  6. Never walk alone at night, especially if the area is known to have a lot of crime. If you do wish to ‘go walkabout’, make sure you read up on the area first, and don’t wander into a neighbourhood where you might not be welcome!
  7. If you’re going out on the town, take only the cash you need and leave valuables such as bank card and mobile in your guest house, hotel or hostel. Use any lockers to keep your valuables extra safe, or if none are available, hide valuables under mattresses, wardrobes or pillows.
  8. In some countries criminals spike tourists’ drinks with memory-wiping drugs – so they can pickpocket them (or worse). Always keep a watchful eye on your drink, and if you have to leave it (to go to the toilet for example), make sure someone you trust is watching it.
  9. Ensure you have adequate insurance to cover the loss of any belongings.
  10. Bag snatchers love handbags – so consider ditching yours for a money belt. If you must carry a handbag, wear it across your shoulders. 

 

Backpacking Incan Trail – Machu Picchu Peru By fortherock

 

Taking the precautions listed above will make the theft of your belongings far less likely, however, it is an unfortunate fact that crime of these sorts does happen, and there may be things that are out of your control that lead to such events. This is why point 9 is so important. At least with adequate cover in place, you don’t have to worry about being stranded, and you know that help will be on hand if you need.

For more information about the travel insurance we provide for longstay holidays and backpacking, give one of our team a call on 01892 83 33 38. We can tailor our policies to meet your needs, and we are happy to answer any questions you may have. 

Posted in Longstay Travel Insurance, Safety when travelling, Travel Advice | Leave a comment

Forget Paris: Escape with your lover to Florence

Posted on February 6, 2014 by worldwideinsure

The only problem with a romantic break in Florence, Italy, is that you might be tempted to shun your lover for the city itself, such is its allure. But if you stay true to your special someone, then you could find no backdrop more conducive to an amorous getaway.

Where to stay

There is a huge choice of hotels available, from the budget to the grand. But you won’t have to spend too much for suitably romantic accommodation – especially if you avoid high season, or are prepared to stay a little way out of the centre.

A day in Florence

Even if you spent a week here strolling the many Renaissance squares (piazzas) and narrow cobbled streets, you would only see a portion of the secrets of Florence.

However, for those with limited time, head for the Piazza della Signoria. Here you’ll find the grand Palazzo Vecchio with its iconic tower. Nearby you’ll see a copy (though a very splendid one) of Michaelangelo’s David. Enjoy the atmosphere in one of the numerous cafes edging the square.

After topping up your Italian coffee reserves, wander towards il Duomo – the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. No doubt you will have already seen its majestic dome from afar – dominating as it does the entire Florentine skyline. Big enough for 20,000 people, it is well worth the effort of looking inside. The outside, however, is equally breath-taking.

 

Il Duomo’s Dome – Florence by Anna Fox

Make sure you take in the splendour of the Campanile – or Bell Tower – also located in the Piazza del Duomo.

Next, take a stroll over to the 11th Century Baptistery of John the Baptist, built of stunning green and white marble. Its three large, beautiful bronze doors make this is one of the most unique buildings in the city. It is located in the Piazza San Giovanni, just off the Piazza del Duomo.

After this, move southwards to the unmissable Ponte Vecchio – a medieval bridge on which there are still shops selling jewellery. The perfect place to buy your loved one a token of your affection?

Ponte Vecchio by Colby Blaisdell

Another must-see is the Galleria degli Uffizi which boasts the world’s greatest collection of Renaissance art, but buy your tickets in advance since queues are long and may add a little too much tension to your romantic escape.

After consuming all this architecture and art, you will probably feel the need to consume some of Italy’s famous cuisine.

But, before you and your loved one dine, why not head back to the Piazza del Signoria and enjoy the sunset with some Tuscan wine?

When it comes to eating, strolling the cobbled streets in search of a restaurant is a joy in itself, with every type of food imaginable on offer. But classic Tuscan cuisine is the order of the day.

After your romantic break in Florence it won’t be long before the capital of Tuscany beckons you and your partner back for a little more amour.

Posted in Single Trip Travel Insurance, Travel Advice | Leave a comment

RingCredible App Review – Jan14 App of the Month

Posted on January 30, 2014 by worldwideinsure

Going on holiday is very much an experience for you to enjoy, but half of the fun is getting to brag to all of your friends and family about it too! But with extortionate phone rates holding you back, sometimes letting your friends and family know what a good time you’re having can cost more than the holiday itself. 

Thankfully, RingCredible is here to help. This ingenious app relies on the power of internet connection to make calls to mobiles and landlines worldwide for minimal costs, and the app itself is completely free! No wonder it has won itself the award of January 2014’s Travel App of the Month.

 

What Does RingCredible Do?

RingCredible allows you to contact friends and family worldwide using an internet connection as opposed to your mobile service, which is renowned for being extremely expensive. It can be used with both 3G/4G or Wi-Fi, but it is reportedly much more successful with a Wi-Fi connection and also avoids the issues of data allowances too.

You’ll need to top up your account to make calls, but with prices as low as one pence per minute to countries all around the world, your balance is sure to last even longer than your tan will.

 Additional Benefits

  • All of your contacts are automatically available in the app, so calling through RingCredible is just as easy as making a standard call
  • Your name and number appear on the recipient’s phone as normal, so there won’t be any issues of people not answering due to withheld numbers or complicated messages
  • The app consumes very little battery, so you won’t find yourself in a charging predicament after using it
  • There are no advertisements, so your use won’t be disturbed by unwanted banners or pop-ups

 

RingCredible Reviews

Reviews on the Apple App Store are mixed, with some users saying it’s both brilliant and cheap, whilst some claim it didn’t save them any money at all.

A WordPress review from “The IT Nerd” found it to be reliable and have good connection and voice levels, and to be much more affordable than Skype or any other VoIP product.

It has ranked as the number one travel app in over 40 countries, and has gained an impressive one million users in the last six months.

Android users rated it a respectable 3.7 stars, with most recent reviews giving between four and five stars, which could be down to the improved version that was released mid-December.

Whether you’re contacting home to update friends on your tan, check up on your pets, or to make an important business call you forgot to make before you left, make sure you aren’t paying Barbados prices for a Benidorm experience! Why not give RingCredible a try and avoid unexpected call costs when you travel abroad. Have fun!

 

Download RingCredible for Android and iPhone.

Posted in Travel Advice, travel apps | Leave a comment