The joys of setting sail on a gulet holiday off Turkey's amazing coast

https://www.standard.co.uk/esmagazine/turkey-ya-selam-gulet-charter-carian-coast-b1089045.html

Plain Sailing: the easiest way to cruise the Aegean with your kids

https://www.mrporter.com/en-gb/journal/travel/luxury-family-vacation-school-holiday-adventure-2023-24090490

https://sheerluxe.com/culture/travel/13-amazing-all-inclusive-holidays

https://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/family-holidays/50-fabulous-family-holidays-2023/

Salamander Voyages Adds New Vessels to its Fleet in Greece & Croatia

As COVID cases dropped and lockdown and travel restrictions across Europe began to ease, people across the continent started planning holidays away to make the most of the remaining summer months. Yet, some major European cities have since experienced new spikes in the virus. As a result, holidaymakers returning to the UK from these countries were either forced to isolate for 2 weeks upon return, leading to many cancelling their plans altogether. Other countries require tourists arriving from the UK to quarantine on arrival.

Yet, there are destinations in Europe where non-essential travel from the UK is still allowed, without quarantining on arrival or self-isolating on return. Turkey is one of the most popular holiday destinations for Brits, and one of the few in Europe where tourists from the UK aren’t required to quarantine in Turkey, or isolate when back in the UK.

Arriving in Turkey

Due to the pandemic, there are medical evaluations travellers will face on arrival to the Mediterranean nation. These will test for any symptoms of COVID-19, including temperature checks. If tourists show any symptoms on arrival, they will be required to take a coronavirus test. Tourists are also required to fill in a form on the government’s website stating their contact and journey details.

Once lockdown eased and travel restrictions across Europe were lifted, many countries allowed tourists from across the globe to enter their country without any medical checks for COVID-19 or any symptoms of the virus.

Perhaps this careful, proactive approach from the Turkish government is why COVID-19 cases remain so low compared to other popular holiday destinations across Europe. Although these medical checks may mean waiting times on arrival to the country are lightly increased, tourists can relax knowing they are entering a country taking the virus seriously.

Safety measures in Turkey

As well as these checks on arrival, the wearing of masks throughout the country is also obligatory. Unlike the UK where just recently mask-wearing has just recently been made compulsory on public transport and in shops, it is the law to wear face masks outside of the home and in any crowded place in Turkey. This includes shops, markets, hairdressers, public transport and private vehicles with more than one other person.

There are also capacity limits on forms of public transport in order to limit the spread of the virus by ensuring passengers can follow social distancing guidelines.

Many people are concerned about international travel due to the pandemic. Entering a country where the R rate is high is a risk. First of all, travellers will be worried about catching the virus whilst on holiday. Second of all, there is the risk that circumstances around travel can change, meaning holidaymakers may lose money on cancelled trips or need to self-isolate for 2 weeks on return.

Turkey, however, is one of the safest major European destinations currently, in terms of COVID-19. Unlike many European nations, the Mediterranean country hasn’t experienced a significant second spike. The peak of the virus in Turkey was mid-April. Since the decline, new cases in the country have remained steady since the beginning of June.

Reasons for this can be put down to the strict and proactive safety measures implemented by the government, medical checks upon arrival, as well as residents following social distancing regulations.

Private, luxury gulet travel

Of the European countries which have experienced significant second spikes of the virus, many of these have occurred in major metropolitan cities. In populated areas, such as popular tourist destinations, the virus is more likely to spread.

However, Turkey offers tourists the chance to experience countless, off-the-beaten-track locations, such as secluded coves, beaches and islands. One way to experience these locations is by private gulet charter.

Private gulet charter allows tourists the chance to experience a luxury holiday, whilst remaining safe and practising social distancing throughout. Private gulet charter features private crew and chefs on board, all of which have their temperature checked twice daily. This ensures tourists can remain in their own social bubble and avoid coming into contact with large groups of tourists and locals alike.

Tourists are free to explore local seaside towns and beaches. There are countless secluded destinations. As the crew are local, they can advise on where you may like to visit. Should tourists wish, they can relax on beaches where social distancing can be easily maintained. Also, there are countless seaside restaurants available where social distancing is also practised.

Alternatively, the onboard crew can prepare meals for all of the guests if they don’t feel comfortable dining in restaurants with other tourists. The crew can prepare freshly made, authentic, local cuisine for guests. All food is fresh and sourced locally from markets. This makes for healthy and delicious cuisine, complemented by local beers and wines.

As guests have exclusive access to their own private gulet, they do not share the boat with anyone else, other than the regularly tested cabin crew. This ensures contact with other people is kept to a minimum. Also on arrival in Turkey, drivers can collect guests in private vehicles, whilst wearing gloves, masks and carrying out a deep clean of the vehicle before each journey.

Keeping safe abroad

Each country has its own laws and regulations in relation to the virus. The most effective ways to keep safe from the Coronavirus is to maintain social distancing and personal hygiene.

Keeping your distance from strangers, whether they show symptoms or not, can help prevent coming into contact with the virus. If possible stay at least 1 meter away from strangers.

Avoiding large crowds and gatherings is the best way to maintain social distancing. Private gulet charters allow for tourists to enjoy a luxury holiday in exotic locations, without needing to worry about maintaining social distancing. Private gulet charter provides tourists with their own social bubble, between the guests and cabin crew.

Guests can spend their entire vacation on the private gulet if they wish. However, if they would prefer to spend time onshore occasionally, whether it is visiting a seafood restaurant or spending time on the beach, this can be done safely also. Our cabin crew is familiar with the local towns, beaches and routes of Turkish travel itineraries. They can advise and recommend popular places to visit where it will be possible to maintain social distancing, relax and stay safe.

Guests can also relax when it comes to the hygiene of a private gulet charter. The general advice is to wash hands frequently, avoid touching your face with your hands and cleaning frequently-touched objects with disinfectant. The cabin crew of private gulet charters can take a proactive approach to maintain gulet hygiene, keeping the boat in shipshape condition.

Hand sanitisers can be located on various parts of the boat, for the crew and guests to regularly wash their hands. As well as this, cabin crew can carry out deep cleans of the boat between charters, and sterilise bathrooms, kitchens and leisure areas during the trip.

If you’re hoping for a safe vacation this year, then a gulet cruise to Turkey will provide you and your guests with peace of mind. As well as visiting a beautiful country with magnificent coastlines, you are able to easily keep distance from other tourists and locals outside of your bubble.

Turkey is one of the most unique, multicultural countries in the world. It has everything from beautiful, untouched beaches to bustling, vibrant cities. Due to its fusion of European and Asian heritage, it also boasts an incredibly rich history and diverse culture. There is plenty to see and plenty to learn from the history and the proud, accommodating locals.

Here at Salamander Voyages, although we specialise in private gulet charter across the coastline, we recognise Turkey has so much to offer inland as well. Allow us to run you through our tips and recommendations on how you can make the most out of a trip to Turkey.

 

Source: https://decoturpatpic.site/istanbuls-best-vr-cafe-cafesi-en-istan/

 

1) Learn the language

We’re not saying you need to be fluent in Turkish, however, like in most foreign countries, the locals will appreciate it if you at least make the effort with their language. Also outside of the big cities, not many of the locals will speak English.

Luckily, with the Turkish language, it’s fairly easy to pick up the basics. It’s an easy language to read and most words are pronounced how they are spelt. Once the locals hear you attempting Turkish, most will be able to understand you well enough. You’ll also likely be received much more warmly and even get better service in cafes and bars.

Here are a few basics:

• ‘evet’ means yes
• ‘hayir’ means no
• ‘tesekkür ederim’ means thank you.

 

2) Dress respectfully

Turkey has a mixture of Western & Eastern civilisation. Because of this, there is a very high Muslim population. In most places, you should be fine wearing what you want, however, the culture is more conservative the further East you go. In this case, it could be worth covering knees and shoulders. You’re perfectly allowed to wear what you like, however, the locals will find it more respectful if you cover up and avoid wearing shorts.

If you plan to visit a mosque, however, it is important to ensure you cover your hair, shoulders and legs. Also if you are invited into somebody’s home, you will usually be expected to take your shoes off.

Of course, all of this depends on where you go. In larger cities where it is less conservative, don’t be surprised to see more lavish clothing and style. The usual attire in busier cities is formal wear.

 

3) Clear your plate

There’s no denying one of the highlights of visiting Turkey is the food. Be aware though that it is quite common to find lots of places offer in excess of 3-course meals, sometimes even six. Also, many locals will consider it rude if you weren’t to completely clear your plate and accept all of the courses offered.

It’s best to accept all of the courses, however, be careful not to overindulge with the earlier ones. If you are served meze, a selection of small dishes, perhaps take a spoonful from each dish. Turkish people are very accommodating and a typical dish there is fairly large. Serving you large amounts of food is just their way of being polite.

However, If you are like us, having a few plates full of Turkish food isn’t a problem at all.

 

Source: https://www.soshiok.com/carousels-first-turkish-food-promotion/

 

4) City breaks

Turkey is blessed with a wide array of cities, many with unique and diverse characteristics and culture from each other. It may be difficult to visit all, but here are a few you should consider.

The capital Ankara, located in the centre of the country, is a centre for performing arts, including ballet, opera, the Presidential Symphony Orchestra and theatre.

Although not the capital city of Turkey, Istanbul is the biggest, most vibrant and atmospheric city in the country. The fourth highest populated country in the world, it possesses plenty of history and character.

There’s also Izmir on the Aegean coast, which has a traditional Greek feel. This city contains ancient Greek ruins and archaeology.

Antalya, also known as the Turquoise Coast due to its beautiful blue seas, is in the Southern Mediterranean region. Used as a port during Roman times, there is a harbour packed with yachts and stunning views of the beaches.

 

5) Visit the countryside

One of the wonderful things about Turkey is the vast landscapes of cities, countryside and beaches. This is why it’s important to make the most out of everywhere. The countryside may be more desolate than the cities however this is what makes it so peaceful and relaxing.

Mardin for example, located in the South-East of the country, is full of beautiful architecture, steep rocky hills and flat plains. Close to the borders of Syria and Iraq, it is a beautiful region, contrasting to buzzing cities like Istanbul.

 

6) Go to the beaches

Turkey is home to some mesmerising white, sandy beaches which spread for miles. Any place on the coast will suffice for a relaxing time spent sunbathing and paddling in the crystal clear oceans.

Dalyan Turtle Beach specifically is a beach we would recommend visiting. Dalyan is located between Fethiye and Marmaris, on the South-west Mediterranean coast. It is home to endangered loggerhead turtles who have been around for over 45 million years. They lay their eggs here and are heavily protected by the Turkish government and conservationists. These turtle filled beaches are a popular tourist hotspot.

Some other things to visit in Dalyan are the mudbaths, hot water springs and temple tombs.

 

Source: https://www.gofeminin.de/reise/die-10-schonsten-strande-in-europa-s1772237.html

 

7) Hire a gulet

One way to view a few of these beaches is to charter a gulet. You can hire a private gulet for a week or two, or even just book a gulet ride for the day.

A gulet is an excellent way to view the Turkish coastline in its full glory. Sailing across untampered beaches, coves and cliffs whilst sipping Turkish wine against the cool ocean breeze is an experience not to be missed.

You also get to visit secluded villages and archaeological sites on islands which are only accessible by boat.

 

8) Brush up on your History

Turkey has a powerful historical story, and due to its combination of Asian and European influences, there is plenty of it on offer.

Whether its visiting museums in the city, or the ancient ruins of the Ottomans, the Seljuks and the Mongols, wherever you go you’ll be sure to find something worthy of learning.

Istanbul, in particular, is a great city to visit museums. There’s the Hagia Sophia Museum, Topkapı Palace Museum and Harem Apartments, Istanbul Archaeological Museums, Istanbul Mosaic Museum, Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts, Museum for the History of Science and Technology in Islam, Chora Museum, Galata Mevlevi House Museum, Yıldız Palace, Rumeli Hisar Museum and Fethiye Museum to name a few.

 

9) Respect the culture

Turkish people are very proud and passionate. There are some topics which can be quite sensitive, so be careful what you say to avoid offending anyone.

Politics for example. Mustafa Kemal Atatürk became president in 1923 after founding the country. He also kickstarted Turkeys education, political structure, art and culture. Any insults or jokes about Atatürk won’t go down well. It is also illegal to make jokes or insult the government, the military and the Turkish flag.

As an Islam country, Ramadan is celebrated in Turkey. If you visit during Ramadan, you should only eat and drink in private during fasting hours. It is seen as disrespectful to eat and drink in front of people who are fasting.

It is also polite to try and bargain with Turkish people at markets and stalls. It is seen as a form of politeness and a way of positive communication, plus you get to save some money. Be wary not to try driving the price too low, however.

Football is also a very hot topic in Turkey, especially with the two Instanbul based teams, Fenerbahce and Galatasary. There is a fierce rivalry between the two teams, and supporters of each are very passionate and loyal. They may not take too kindly to any jokes or derogatory comments made about their team.

 

10) Hot air balloon ride

Another way to view the stunning landscapes Turkey has to offer is travelling via hot air balloon.

Cappadocia is in central Turkey, and home to Monks Valley. This valley is renowned for its unique ‘fairy chimneys’, which are tall clusters rock forming a vast, spectacular canyon.

The best way to see these mesmerising formations are from the sky in a hot air balloon. As well as the landscape itself, simply viewing numerous, colourful hot air balloons in the sky is a beautiful sight in itself.

You can also stay in cave houses which have been carved into these valleys. The people of Cappadocia lived in these caves for years, except now they’ve even been kitted out with electricity, showers and toilets.

 

Source: https://adarasblogazine.com/hot-air-ballooning-in-cappadocia/

 

Turkey has endless stories and places on offer, each one different and special. Whether you visit for the history, culture, food or landscapes, you’re sure to have a trip to remember.

The people are very friendly and accommodating, as well as proud and honourable. You will be well looked over whilst you are over there, and even more so if you are respectful and fully immerse yourself in the culture.

So, it’s your first time travelling? Exciting times! Whether you’re going alone, with friends or even with your family, travelling for the first time can be a little intimidating. You’ve probably watched one of those border security shows, and now you’re dreading trying to get through security alone. Perhaps you have a phobia of flying; also known as aerophobia or aviophobia. Whatever the reason for your nervousness, we’re here to help guide you through everything, from getting to the airport to finding your way around town when you land.

More…

Planning your Trip

Before we worry about flying, landing or even dealing with the airport, it’s time to plan the trip! Booking flights and a hotel can often be a tedious task, as you wish to find the best deals you can and not have to fork out all your hard earned cash. Well, whether you have a destination in mind or not, we’re here to help you with a few ideas.

Planning your Trip

Summer Destinations

If you’re a fan of the sun and warm weather, then summer is the best time to plan that holiday you’ve been thinking about for the last few months. There’s nothing better than getting away from the pressures of work and home life and just relaxing in another country, while soaking up the sun. Check out these more popular summer destinations.

• Caribbean
• Dubai
• Algarves
• Crete
• Cyprus
• Turkey
• Greece
• Majorca

​The Caribbean is a region of the Caribbean Sea and its islands. Everyone should experience the Caribbean at least once in their lives. Mixing rum and calypso rhythms in Barbados; going snorkelling or even scuba diving around Antigua’s beautiful coral reefs; or even exploring exotic flower-filled rainforests in St Lucia. Check out some of the package deals offered by airlines:

TUI​Hays TravelFirst ChoiceVirgin HolidaysExpediaBritish Airways

What to Do

The Caribbean isn’t just sun, sand and sea; while that does make up a lot of what the Caribbean has to offer, there is always more.While relaxing on the beach is usually why people visit the Caribbean Island, there are always plenty of activities for those of us who aren’t looking to sit in the sun and relax for the week. The Caribbean offers snorkeling, scuba diving, swimming with dolphins, kite surfing and so much more. If none of this is for you, then check out these suggestions:

50 Great Things to do in the Caribbean10 Great Things to do in the CaribbeanThings to do in the CaribbeanThe Top 10 Things to do in the Caribbean

Dubai is the largest and most populous city in the United Arab Emirates. What was once a desert community has quickly become one of the world’s most luxurious destinations, with the world’s only 7 star hotel, as well as some of the most iconic landmarks in the world. Check out what the airlines have to offer:

TUIVirgin HolidaysEmiratesThomas CookBritish AirwaysExpedia

What to Do

Dubai is one of the most luxurious places in the world, so you can expect everything to be extravagant, with record breaking architecture, man-made islands and more. Not to mention the Dubai Mall, with 1,200 stores and 150 restaurants, as well as an indoor theme park, ice rink, waterfall, outdoor fountain and even the giant Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo. Nothing is simple ion Dubai, check out these lists to see for yourself:

Things to do in DubaiThe Top 10 Things to do in Dubai15 Fun New Things to do in Dubai60 Amazing Things to do in Dubai with Guests

The Algarves is the southernmost region of continental Portugal, seeing millions of international and national tourists annually. A regular winner at the World Travel Awards ( the travel industry’s answer to the Oscars), the Algraves have won awards for just about everything, from diving spots to sublime golf resorts. See what package holidays the airlines have to offer:

TUIThomas CookJet2HolidaysEasyJetFirst ChoiceExpedia

What to Do

The Algarves sit on the south coast of Portugal, so sitting out in the sun and enjoying the beaches is a must, but if that doesn’t take your fancy then the Algarves also offers surfing, historical ruins, vineyards and more. Check everything out here:

The Top 10 Things to Do in The Algarves14 Top Rated Tourist Attractions in the AlgarvesTop Things to do in The AlgarvesThings to do in The Algarves

Crete is the largest and most populous of the Greek Islands, as well as being the fifth-largest island in the Mediterranean Sea. Crete offers good weather year round, with the summer months hitting highs of around 30°C as well as 650 miles of beautiful coastline to see and visit. Major airlines always have package deals available Crete, check them out here:

TUIJet2HolidaysThomas CookFirst ChoiceExpediaEasyJet

What to Do

As an island, Crete offers plenty of sun, sea and sand but for those that wish to see more of Crete, there are also plenty of historical sites to visit, including the Palace of Knossos, Heraklion Archaeological Museum and more. See what Crete has to offer by checking these sites out:

Top Things to do in CreteThings to do in CreteBest Things to do in Crete8 Top-Tourist Attractions in Crete

Cyprus is the third largest and third most populous island in the Mediterranean. Located to the south of Turkey, the island dates back to around the 10th millennium BC. With mountain scenery, centuries-old sights and incredible food and nightlife, Cyprus is a great travel destination for anyone. See what deals the airlines have to offer:

TUIThomas CookJet2HolidaysExpediaFirst Choice

What to Do

Cyprus has a lot to offer anybody, with clear waters, sunny beaches, coral bay and not to mention the long list of historical sights; including the Tombs of the Kings in Paphos. All of which you can visit while you’re there, there’s something for everyone to do in Cyprus. See what else you can get up to:

Things to do in CyprusTop Things to do in CyprusCyprus Attractions: What to See and do25 Best Things to Do in Cyprus

Turkey has always been a popular holiday destination for summer months! With great weather, sublime beaches and incredible waters, what’s not to love? If sitting on the beaches and soaking up the sun isn’t why you’re there, then the Ottoman ruins and Roman temples will likely keep you entertained. Take a look at what the airlines have to offer:

TUIThomas CookEasyJetExpediaFirst ChoiceJet2Holidays

What to Do

There’s always something to do in Turkey, with a variety of great food, beautiful ruins and temples as well as endless clear waters and incredible beaches. Here’s what you can get up to in Turkey:

Things to Do in Turkey57 Cool & Unusual Things to Do in Turkey12 Top-Rtaed Tourist Attractions in TurkeyTop 10 Things to do in Turkey

​

Greece offers travellers a lot, with plenty of great food, incredible weather and even more incredible beaches, all coupled with the beautiful blue waters, Greece is a must for anyone. it’s not just beaches you have to look forward to in Greece, with incredible nightlife, plenty of history and unrivaled views. Take a look at what packages the airlines offer:

TUIThomas CookFirst ChoiceExpediaJet2HolidaysEasyJet

What to Do

Greece offers travellers plenty of activities, from historical tours of the surrounding temples and ruins to cruises and private gulets, Greece always has something to offer. Check out these activities:

Things to do in GreeceTop 25 Attractions & Things to Do in Greece55 Cool & Unusual Things to Do in Greece25 Best Things to Do in Greece

Majorca is the largest of Spain’s Balearic Islands in the Mediterranean. While Majorca may usually be known as a beach resort, it has plenty more to offer, spend time exploring the Serra de Tramuntana mountain range, which has been made into a World Heritage Site, or even sample the local cuisine. See what deals the major airlines have to offer :

TUIThomas CookExpediaFirst ChoiceJet2Holidays

What to Do

Majorca has something to offer everyone; whether you’re looking to sit on the beach and top up your tan, want to visit some historic sites and get to know the local history or even fancy just being amongst the locals and sampling the cuisine on offer. Check out what you can get up to here:

Things to Do in MajorcaTop 20 Things to do in MajorcaTop Five Things to See and Do in Majorca15 Best Things to do in Majorca

Winter Destinations

Perhaps getting away and trying to enjoy some sun isn’t what you’re after, if you’re looking to have a white Christmas then getting away to somewhere cold and snowy is likely your aim. Well, airlines don’t just offer package deals for beach holidays, they also have numerous packages for winter getaways. Check out some of the more popular destinations for winter breaks.

• New YOrk
• Switzerland
• Finland
• norway
• Estonia
• Canada
• France
• Lithuania

New York is the most populous city in the US and during winter it’s a wonderland for anyone that loves snow and the cold. With so many tourist attractions and landmarks, you’ll never be lost for something to do in New York. Check out what package deals the airlines have to offer:

TUIThomas CookVirgin HolidaysExpediaBritish AirwaysJet2

What to Do

New York is packed with things to do, from landmarks and memorials, to Times Square. During the winter months, New York usually turns into a wonderland over the winter months, leaving nothing uncovered. See what New York has to offer:

Things to Do in New YorkThe 101 Best Things to do in NYC20 Ultimate Things to Do in New York CityThings to Do in New York City

Switzerland is a mountainous Central |European country, home to numerous lakes, villages and high peaks of the Alps. With medieval quarters, landmarks like capital Bern’s Zytglogge clock tower. Known for its ski resorts and hiking trails, it’s a great winter getaway. Check out the packages deals on offer from the airlines:

TUIThomas CookExpediaBritish AirwaysEasyJet

What to Do

Holidays to Switzerland are all about the vast mountains, tranquil lakes and cities bubbling with heritage. Switzerland offers so much to any traveller, no matter their reason for visiting, with mixed culture, incredible food and medieval town centres. There’s something for everyone, check out what you can expect to do:

Things to Do in Switzerland35 Fun Things to do in Switzerland66 Cool & Unusual Things to Do in Switzerland50 Unique Things to Do in Switzerland

Finland is usually covered in snow during the winter months so if that’s what youre after, you likely won’t be disappointed. Home to the 18th-century sea fortress Suomenlinna, the fashionable Design District and diverse museums. Finland is definitely worth checking out, see what deals the airlines have to offer:

TUIThomas CookExpediaBritish Airway

What to Do

While Finland might not be one of the most visited countries in northern Europe, it still has plenty to offer. With majestic forests, stunning landscapes and plenty of winter fun. Visit Father Christmas at SantaPark or even take a shot at riding with reindeer in Lapland. Check out what you can get up to here:

Things to do in Finland33 Cool & Unusual Things to do in Finland12 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Finland25 Best Things to do in Finland

Norway is used to snow by now, and that’s perfect if that’s what you’re looking for. With ski resorts a few hours away by train and a great chance of snow in almost any city in the country, you’ll be in a winter wonderland no matter where you stay! Check out some deal from the airlines here:

TUIThomas CookExpediaBritish AirwaysEasyJet

What to Do

Norway offers so much to any traveller, encompassing mountains, glaciers and deep coastal fjords. Norway also has plenty of history for you to check out, with preserved 9th-century Viking ships displayed at Oslo’s Viking Ship Museum. As well as this Norway is known for fishing, hiking and skiing, most notably at Lillehammer’s Olympic Resort.

Things to Do in NorwayTop 17 Experiences in Norway25 Best Things to Do in Norway57 Cool & Unusual Things to do in Norway

You’ll feel a huge sense of Christmas spirit when you visit Estonia’s beautiful wooden Christmas market huts, especially once they’re covered in white fluffy snow, which falls more often than not. If Christmas markets aren’t for you the country also has plenty of historical sights to see too, check out airline package deals here:

​TUIThomas CookExpediaBritish AirwaysEasyJet

What to Do

Estonia has plenty to offer anyone who wishes to have themselves a white Christmas, with surreal Christmas markets, as well as castles, fortifications, medieval houses and paths taking visitors on unforgettable adventures; not to mention Estonia is home to one of Europe’s largest national parks. Check out what you can get up to:

Things to Do in EstoniaWhat to See & Do in Estonia15 Best Places to Visit in Estonia25 Best Things to Do in Estonia

Canada is the second largest country in the world by total area, and covering so much land means that the country sees it’s fair share of snow each winter! With mountains, markets, history and so much more, Canada is highly recommended. Check out which airlines have package deals:

Thomas CookVirgin HolidaysExpediaBritish Airways

​What to Do

Canada has plenty to offer to everyone, no matter what you’re looking for, you’ll likely find it here. With a rich history, Canada is an exciting country to explore, very few places in the work have natural wonders as awe inspiring as Canada. There are endless possibilities in Canada. Check some of them out:

Things to Do in Canada30 Things to Do in Canada321 Cool & Unusual Things to Do in Canada12 Best Places to Visit in Canada

France is littered with medieval cities, alpine villages and Mediterranean beaches, it really does have everything. Not to mention the history and attractions France has to offer, from the Eiffel Tower to classic art museums like the Louvre. Check out which airlines have package deals:

ExpediaBritish AirwaysJet2EasyJet

What to Do

France is home to an abundance of history and attractions, with everything from the Eiffel Tower to the Louvre, there’s a little something for everyone. Not to mention the ultimate attraction for your winter getaway; The Alps! If you’re looking for a snowy getaway, there’s no better place to spend it than in the Alps. Check out what else you can get up to:

Things to Do in France400 Cool & Unusual Things to Do in FranceTop 10 Must-See Hidden Attractions in FranceTop 10 Outdoor Activities to Experience in France

Lithuania is packed with culture and history, known for its medieval Old Town, as well as its Gothic, Renaissance and baroque architecture, as well as it’s 18th-century cathedral built on a pagan temple site. Lithuania sees snow more often than not during the winter, and you’ll likely not be disappointed. Check out which airlines are offering package holidays to Lithuania:

Thomas CookExpedia

What to Do

Lithuania also knows how to do Christmas markets, filling everyone with festive cheers and the smells of delicious spiced treats, with the capital of Lithuania (Vilnius) going all out to take advantage of the snow, with ice-rinks set up outside the beautiful neo-classical cathedral in Town Square. There’s so much to do in Lithuania:

Things to Do in LithuaniaTop 10 Things To Do in Lithuania25 Best Things to Do in LithuaniaFun Things to Do in Lithuania

Booking your Trip

So you’ve picked your destination and you’re ready to book your holiday. Depending where you plan to visit, you can either book your holiday as a package deal online, or in a travel agents, or you can visit the travel agents and book everything in person. No matter which route you choose to take, booking the trip couldn’t be easier.

Booking Online

If you choose to book your holiday online, you’re responsible for making sure all required details are entered correctly. When booking online, you will be required to make the payment in full unless otherwise stated. Whether you’re booking a flight, hotel or whole package holiday, booking online is simple and there are many deals to be had. All you need is a computer or device with an active internet connection and a credit/debit card; once you’ve found the flight, hotel or package holiday you wish to book, follow all the instructions within the booking process and make payment when prompted. You may also require passport numbers and details for all companions if you’re booking for more than yourself. If you do book your flights online, you’re often given the option of online check-in, as well as the need to print off your own boarding passes. This allows you to skip some ques and get through check-in quickly, just make sure nobody loses theirs.

Booking Through a Travel Agent

If you choose to visit and book through a travel agent, the process is slightly different. Travel agents help you plan your trip, finding you the best prices and even clean up the mess if you encounter any troubles like cancelled flights etc. All you’re required to do when booking through a travel agent is communicate what you want and pay for everything. Payment through a travel agents is usually different to online, many travel agents allow you to pay a monthly amount up until you fly, this allows you to spread the cost across a few weeks or months. You must, however, pay the total for everything before a set date, if this isn’t payed, you’ll likely never get your hands on the tickets. Just make sure you have your tickets and any documents you may need before you leave for the airport.

Getting to and Around the Airport

Depending on the size of the party going away, getting to the airport and navigating around it can be a hassle. Many major airports are extremely busy at most times of the year, but especially during the winter and summer months, when people are looking to get away and enjoy some sun or escape (Or visit) the cold. There are numerous useful apps for taxis to get you there, and some even have fixed prices for airport trips. A few useful apps (Some apps may only be available in certain areas and regions) you can look to try are:

Uber | Google Play Store | Apple App StoreLyft | Google Play Store | Apple App StoreGett | Google Play Store | Apple App StoreMyTaxi | Google Play Store | Apple App StoreKabbee | Google Play Store | Apple App Store

Once you’ve made it to the airport, it’s time to tackle the really hard stuff; other people. The airport is a stressful place at the best of times, but when you have children with you or even just a large party, people tend to get distracted and getting lost in an airport is fairly easy. Stick together in groups, find the gate you need to get to and make sure everyone makes it through security. Once you’re through security, you have until your gate opens (Usually anywhere between 10 and 45 minutes before your flight departs.) to get drinks, shop and do anything you need to do. Just make sure you’re at your gate in time and don’t miss your flight.

Flying and Landing

You made it through the crowds and managed to avoid losing anyone. You got to your gate on time and now you’ve boarded, found your seats and you’re waiting to take off. Before taking off, you’ll likely have the pilot introduce themselves as well as the cabin crew. You’ll also be shown safety demonstrations by the cabin crew before leaving the runway. Due to the sudden changes in pressure when taking off and landing in an aircraft, some people experience some types of pain, ranging from a dull headache to severe shooting pain throughout their face. This, while painful, is common and will usually subside after you’re landed and your body has adjusted to the pressure. If the pain continues for more than a few days, we suggest seeking medical advice to be safe.

During your flight, it’s best to sit back, listen to music, watch a movie or even just have a catch up with everyone. Depending on the length of your flight, you may be served in flight meals as well as having the ability to purchase food, beverages and more from the cabin crew.

Top Travel Tips

You made it! If you don’t have a transfer from the airport to the hotel, we’d recommend checking to see if the city you landed in has Uber or any similar app, if they don’t, then find a local taxi, bus, coach or train. Now, relax, take a load off and enjoy your holiday with these travel tips.