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A Gypsy Caravan Holiday

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A Gypsy Caravan Holiday is an adventure!
It’s an escape from the busy every-day life: imagine living in a Gypsy caravan for a few days, handling a horse and driving through an unspoiled, idyllic countryside.
You can spend a holiday like this for example in the United Kingdom, Ireland, Denmark, Germany, France, Czech Republic, Switzerland and Hungary with different horse breeds and a vardos in variations.

How can I book, how does it work?

There are hire-companies and travel agencies that offer you a trip with a fully fitted and very practical Gypsy caravan for the holiday together with usually one horse, sometimes two.

Bow top wagons, made out of wood and stretched canvas are used preferably. These vehicles are about 5m long (without horse) and approx. 2m wide. They can weigh up to 750kg. In most places Irish Cobs or Gypsy draft horses are used, as they are very well tempered, calm and very good with children. In a lot of cases a collar harness is used.

What, if I haven’t got any experience with horses?

Everyone gets an initial thorough introduction into functionality of the vardo and handling and caring for the horse. It will be explained to you how to harness up and put the horse onto the caravan, how to feed and water it, how to groom and how to look after hooves and hoof shoes.

What do I need to bring with me?

Space is limited in a vardo, therefore you need to bring practical clothing and only gear you really need and dont forget the wet wear, as in some areas weather can be quiet unpredictable even during the summer: spells of rain can occur at any time. Most hire companies give you bedding, but ask you to bring your own towels. A good idea is also to bring your own sleeping bag. Take also a book or two and some games for the children. A mobile phone for emergencies is a good idea. Also, Bank facilities and ATM’s are usually not passed during the trip (the routes are quite well selected and you will travel on calm, more remote roads.)

You will drive along a fix route and check in at selected over night stops, where you will find grazing for the horse, electricity, shower and toilet facilities.

When is the best time to travel? How much does it cost approximately?

Gypsy caravan holiday operations are open from April to October, with a main season in the summer months July – August.

Prices in 2007 were around 500 (600 in high season) per week and caravan and they will usually ask for approx.10 – 15 % deposit. There will be surcharges for the compulsory over night stops, which might be between 15-20 per caravan. You can book short trips over 2 or 3 days or longer ones over 4 or 6 days. If you enjoy it very much, trips can be prolonged in most cases.

A Gypsy caravan holiday is certainly an adventurous vacation and you will experience life from a totally different point of view, in a slower pace. You might even want to take a longer break and organize your tour through different countries with your own vardo and horse/s.

A Socialites Guide to the Holidays

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If December means a calendar fool of obligations then this article is for you. Making it through the holiday season in one semi sane piece isn’t easy, but with these holiday tips you’ll be sashaying from party to party effortlessly and stress free.
Pack Light: While we all know the advantages of having a nice big purse to lug around everything you may ever need at any given time, during the holiday festivities its just not practical. Before the holiday party season gets underway, you should either clean out your over packed purse or buy a cute, compact wallet size clutch that you can carry only the essentials in. What are the essentials you ask? Limit the contents of your purse to some lipstick or gloss, keys, cell phone, and a few other fashion emergency items like clear nail polish and a needle and thread.

Think Ahead: The average adult spends most of the day on the go. Between work, errands, family, and personal needs, there is barely enough time to breath let alone figure out what to wear. The key to lowering the stress often brought on by busy holiday schedules is to plan well in advance. Planning doesnt necessarily mean that you have to try the outfit on weeks in advance, but it does mean you should start piecing together outfits and make lists in your head so you have a point of reference when you hit the stores.

Dress for the Occasion: Are you going to a party inside or outside? Is it a short get together or an all day affair? By asking yourself these questions you should be able to rule out what not to wear to your holiday get together. If youre going to be standing around for several hours, you may want to live the super high ultra skinny heels at home and look for something a little more practical and comfortable. If youre going to be at a party held out doors or in less than cozy conditions, make sure you dress warm and leave your strapless cocktail dress at home on the hanger.

Bring a Gift: If youre going to a gathering at someones house and you are basically enjoying a night of entertainment, food, and beverages all on the hosts bank account, its a good idea to bring a small token of thanks. It doesnt need to be elaborate or expensive. A small bottle of wine or a Christmas decoration is just fine.

Mingle: Holiday parties are a great time to chat with people you don’t normally get a chance to see. When you get to the party, say hello to the host/s, chat with them a bit, and then move on. Not only do you need to make your way around the room, but the individual/s responsible for the party have a million things to do, including speaking to guests. Save the deep discussions for later on in the party when the party has calmed down a bit and your host has time to have a conversation.

Looking for a holiday rental Explore Italy

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There are many holiday rentals to choose from and some include the following favorite hot spots! Casa Capobianco Dolcedo is in the town Imperia, far away from this port town. The tranquility of Casa Capobianco has two bedrooms, the kitchen, and a bathroom. This beautiful house is for the person seeking peace and quiet and you still have mountains and the water surrounding you. You can also go hiking or bike riding.

Another great holiday rental is LUlivo di Sempre Verde. This apartment rental is located in Torria. This village is right in the middle of the olive growers in the mountains. It has a small pool to entertain your friends and it sleeps five people. There are three apartments here. You have an amazing view of the Ligurian Alps. There is plenty of parking if you and your friends want to go hiking or biking on the many trails surrounding the apartments. In about 20-25 minutes you can drive to the sandy beaches of Imperia. There is a path that leads to the center of the town where you can get fresh made bread and groceries or you can choose from several different quaint restaurants.

If you want a private beach then the newly built San Sebastiano No 130 is for you. This beautiful two bedroom has a breathtaking ocean view with its own pool if you do not want to swim in the ocean. This apartment complex is located in a quaint town called Bergeggi. This apartment comes totally furnished so you will not need anything else but your clothes. For a day of excitement you can go snorkeling or diving off the privately owned island of Capo Vado.

You will have plenty of Italian foods to choose from while you are here. You will be in heaven with the many delicious pestos, wines and fish and game. Oh and of course the favorite, Spaghetti! There are hundreds of fine Italian restaurants to choose from and you are sure to add at least a couple to your list of favorites!

There are so many beautiful holiday rentals in Italy and you know when you go there will always be someone who speaks English if you need it. There are several realtors who will help you plan out everything from the attractions to the housing. They will explain to you what all the different holiday rentals include and what they do not. They will tell you what type of entertainment that there is where you will be staying and if nothing you want is close they will give you an idea of where everything else is and how to get there. There are many that will even let you have your pets with you so they can enjoy your vacation with you. Your realtor can find the place that is just right for you so let them know everything you want and they will show you what they have. Your holiday is sure to be amazing!

Top 5 Kenya Safari Holiday Safety Tips

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As in any foreign country, it is wise to follow precautions for safety and security when on a safari in Kenya. When on a Kenya safari holiday there are a few things to remember, not to walk in the bush without your guide, not going too close to or feeding the animals and not swimming in rivers in case of crocs and hippos.

Your guide should explain these kinds of safety issues, but other things to factor into your safety concerns include Kenya holiday insurance, medical preparations, looking after property and money and choosing the right kinds of food and drink. Here are some tips on how to keep safe on your Kenya safari holiday.

Money Tips

Travellers’ cheques and major credit cards are generally accepted in Kenya. A small quantity of US cash, preferably, is useful. Kenya holiday makers should try to carry only a little cash with them make sure youre not an easy target for thieves. Only authorized dealers and banks are allowed to change currency. It is worth changing money at the banks or bureaus on arrival at international airports or in the major towns, where the rate of exchange is more favourable than those offered at lodges and hotels.

Security Precautions

It is important to have a record of your passport number, airline tickets and travellers cheques when you go on a safari in Kenya, and to ensure that these items are kept in a safe place separate from the originals. Make use of your hotel safety deposit box for valuable items. Avoid transactions with by-standers unless accompanied by your tour driver/guide. Beach traders can be a nuisance but they will leave you alone as soon as you firmly but politely decline any trade with them.

Medical Precautions

Malaria is endemic to much of East Africa, consult a doctor or health department for the latest anti-malaria precautions well in advance of your Kenya safari holiday, as well as finding out about any other recently recommended jabs or tablets.

Bring plenty of mosquito repellent and wear trousers, socks and perhaps long sleeves in the evenings to avoid being bitten. Most rooms, even tents, have mosquito nets or mosquito proofing and are sprayed by hotel staff before night falls. Beware of sunburn even at high altitudes where the air feels cool. Bring plenty of sun creams, hats and suitable clothing on your Kenya safari holiday.

Food & Drink in Kenya

Bottled mineral water is readily available all over Kenya and it is generally recommended that Kenya holiday makers steer clear of water other than this. There are no restrictions on the sale or consumption of alcohol in Kenya and you will find a good selection of local beers and soft drinks available, as well as imported wines, beers and spirits in many places, although these can be expensive. The quality and value of food in Kenya is generally very good. However, do eat sensibly, particularly in the first few days of your Kenya safari holiday.

Kenya Holiday Insurance

Medical insurance is strongly recommended. Nairobi has two first-rate hospitals with excellent emergency facilities. In addition to this, travel insurance covering loss of baggage, third party liability, cancellation and curtailment, etc. is also recommended for Kenya safari holidays.

Holiday Driving Safety Tips Help Avoid Auto Accidents

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Even though your chances of having an auto accident during the holidays is much higher than normal, holiday accidents are preventable to a large extent. The increase in holiday auto accidents is due to the fact that there are just more people out there driving–both short and long distances–as well as the fact that the holidays bring celebrations, and celebrations typically come with alcohol. Add the generally more inclement weather to the mix, and you have a holiday recipe for an auto accident. You can substantially increase your chances of getting where you are going without suffering an auto accident that ruins your holidays-and perhaps even changes your life-by following a few simple rules.

Top Auto Accident Prevention Tips

Most especially if you will be driving cross country, there are basic maintenance and vigilance tips you can implement which will substantially reduce your chances of an auto accident far from home.
1.Check the oil: Even if you are a few hundred miles away from your next scheduled oil change, get it done early.
2.Check the tread on your tires: Nothing puts a damper on holiday trips more than getting into an auto accident due to worn out tires. Check your tire pressure as correctly inflated tires improve handling, make tires more resistant to punctures to help you avoid an auto accident.
3.Slow down! Though it seems self-evident, you need every trick in your arsenal during the holidays. Drive defensively; drive the posted speed limit, pay attention to the road and you will arrive at your destination whole and happy.
4.Plan ahead: Allow extra time for the heavy traffic immediately before and after Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day.
5.Plan to stop: Although you and your family might be excited to get to destination as soon as possible, plan to make stops along the way. Getting out of the car for just a few minutes will help you stretch your legs and even give you time to grab a coffee to stay fully awake while driving. Switch drivers if necessary to avoid an auto accident.
6.Avoid distracted driving: Distracted driving had become the main cause of auto accidents in the US and many states have already passed laws punishing this behavior. Avoid texting, playing with your GPS, adjusting the radio or talking on your cell phone while driving and you will reduce the chances of having an auto accident.
7.Prepare a safety kit: Pack a safe road trip kit with essential items such as a cell phone, flashlights, ice scrapers, blankets, jumper cables and a first aid kit, drinking water and snacks.
8.Designate a driver: Since there is drinking involved during the holidays, avoid getting into an auto accident by having a designated driver.
9.Buckle up: Always use seat belts and car safety seats for your children.

They will protect you and your family in case of an auto accident.
Remember that during the holidays many drivers are worried, hurried or distracted, making them less careful, and demanding that you be more vigilant than normal to avoid an auto accident that can leave you with less-than-festive memories of your holiday.