20 Tips For Planning A Successful African Safari Vacation

by: Lovemore Ncube


When planning a Safari, the starting point is to think about the time of year you wish to travel; the anticipated duration of your trip; the type of accommodation you prefer; your budget and any special interests you wish to pursue. The more we know about your aspirations for the trip the easier the planning.

Before even contemplating the different safari areas and the camps/lodges within them, it is helpful to consider the broader context within which the safari areas exist. The first question to ask your self is whether you want the high end exclusive safari destination or a low cost destination. This immediately helps to focus on specific countries, for instance if you are looking for the high end market you may start focusing on Botswana or Namibia, if you are looking for bargain safaris, you may want to focus on South Africa, Zambia or Zimbabwe. By comparing the relative strengths between countries, your choice is further narrowed. The final step is to compare the safari areas within specific countries to decide which is/are most likely to provide the safari experience that you are looking for.

In this article I will highlight the most important factors that you need to take into consideration or think about when planning a safari. I intend to write some sequels focusing in detail on the safari options in different southern African countries, including South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe and Mozambique.

1. Do some research

Start by reading articles or books about African safaris and the ‘big five’ Visit tour operator and travel agency websites to compare information. Make sure as part of your research you get a safari video to have a preview of what to expect. Safari videos are available at http://www.savannasafaris.com/ and other safari operator websites. Through your research you will decide if you will go for a packaged tour or a self drive or a combination of both.

2. Cost of a Safari

Various factors play a role in one's choice of safari destination and, for most people, cost is one of the many criteria that influence this important decision. The explanation for cost differences between safari destinations, and between camps/lodges within the same areas, is multi-faceted and complicated. The safari market in southern Africa is highly competitive and driven by supply and demand; for instance, right now, Zimbabwe safaris are at a bargain because of the low demand resulting from the political and economic crisis in the country and the uncertainty as to whether or not the general elections coming in March 2008 will be peaceful. It is important to note that in most cases the cost of a safari excludes international flights to/from Africa; visas; passports; vaccination costs; excess baggage charges; optional excursions; spending money; tips; local and airport taxes.

3. Game Concentration

For most people, an African safari is not complete when they do not see the big five – elephant, rhino, leopard, lion and leopard. These animals are concentrated at different places. Please be aware that your trip might bring you into close contact with these wild animals, which can be a threat to your safety and your health. Many of the safari camps are unfenced and particular care must be taken. It is essential that you always follow the advice of your guides, do not walk out on your own and do not touch any plants, animals or insects. You should understand the risks involved and take responsibility for your own safety. Please note that most safari lodges will require you to sign a personal indemnity form and you must be prepared to sign these.

4. Camp/lodge experience.

The level of style and luxury in accommodation, the quality of food and service, facilities and amenities are all important factors to consider when planning a safari. The more expensive properties invariably excel in these elements of the overall experience.

5. Wilderness and exclusivity.

As a rule, the larger and more private the concession /reserve, the higher the premium. Botswana (where private concessions are typically 100,000 acres or larger) is the most prominent example of this model of 'low volume / high value' eco-tourism. Zambia is an 'emerging' safari destination heading towards this model.

6. Remoteness.

The further from civilization a camp/lodge, the more expensive it is to supply and operate, and the higher the access costs for guests. Zambia's three major National Parks are very different and fairly far removed from each other. This makes a Zambian safari a very diverse experience, but travel costs are a little higher than in Botswana for example. Namibia, home to some of southern Africa's most remote camps, is perhaps the most pronounced example of this type of safari.

7. Convenience.

Camps/lodges with private airstrips that are close to camp offer increased convenience due to shorter transfer times between the airstrip and camp. This means less time in transit and more time on safari or relaxing. Such airstrips, in addition to being expensive to build and maintain, are desirable to guests and attract a premium.

8. Political situation.

The biggest factor influencing the discounted rates in Zimbabwe is the negative perception surrounding the government of Robert Mugabe. Without doubt this regime has had a very negative impact on the lives of local Zimbabweans but, as a safari destination for foreign visitors, it is still a good deal destination.

9. Passports & visas.

A full passport is essential and must be valid for at least six months after your return. Generally, visas are not required in South Africa and Botswana for United States and United Kingdom passport holders. Visas are required for Zimbabwe and Zambia. For detailed information about visas you can go to http://www.savannasafaris.com/

10. Insurance.

It is a condition of booking for most safari tours that all passengers have insurance cover. Your insurance should be fully comprehensive and include 24-hour emergency medical cover and repatriation along with general cover for travel cancellation and theft of valuables and personal items.

11. Health.

You should consult your doctor at least six weeks prior to travel. If guests have any medication requirements an adequate supply should be brought from home, as it might not be available locally. Anti-malaria medication is essential. It is recommended that visitors bring plenty of insect repellent and sun cream.

12. Safety & security.

In general, people in Africa have an enviable reputation for being friendly and welcoming. Along with most countries around the world, mugging can be a problem in certain towns and it is advisable that you do not walk at night unless you know the area well. If you are driving yourself it is sensible to arrive at your destination before dark as a myriad of animals enjoy lying on the roads at night. It is always sensible when traveling to take precautions against theft. By far the best precaution is to avoid taking valuables with you on holiday. If you do carry valuables ensure you are discreet. Do not leave any valuables or luggage unattended in a vehicle, unless in a locked trunk.

13. Clothing.

The dress code at all of the camps and lodges is casual and there is no requirement to dress for dinner. We recommend that you wear neutral colors with a good pair of lightweight walking boots for game walks. Evenings are generally spent around a campfire, so a lightweight jumper is advisable. Early morning and night game drives can get very cold, particularly in June/July, so it is recommended that you bring a warm jacket and woolly hat. During the heat of the day a shady hat is essential. A long sleeved shirt and long trousers offer a degree of protection from mosquitoes.

14. Fitness levels.

There is generally no fitness requirement for safaris. On walking safaris the walks are slow and gentle, although the ground is often uneven. Game drives can be bumpy at times and might be uncomfortable for people with back problems.

15. Luggage limits.

A luggage limit applies for light aircraft transfers between camps. Soft bags are recommended for these flights. You will normally be advised of the requirements (if any) at the time of booking.

16. Travel in Africa.

Part of what makes Africa so special is that it is very different from Europe and the USA. Please accept that things do not always happen the way you would normally expect and you must be prepared to adapt your arrangements as necessary. Whilst tour operators make every effort to ensure that your trip goes smoothly it is recommended that you be patient and understanding, accepting a degree of uncertainty and enjoying Africa as it is.

17. Climate.

Although local weather conditions vary, the main weather patterns are the same throughout Southern Africa. Evenings and early mornings can get quite chilly, particularly between May and August. October can be extremely hot and humid (although this is the best time for game viewing as animals congregate around the remaining water). The rainy season is normally between November and March.

18. Currency.

The local currencies in the major safari destination countries are the Zambian Kwacha, the Botswana Pula, South African Rand, Namibian Dollar, Mozambican Metical and the Zimbabwean Dollar. Tourists are expected to use US Dollars in camps, lodges and hotels. For local shopping for souvenirs and sundries you will need local currency. Banks will generally exchange US Dollars, English Pounds, Euros and US Dollars are required for visas purchased at the border posts (take the correct amount as any change will be given in local currency). In most of these countries, especially Zimbabwe, there are black market currency dealers. Changing currency in the black market is illegal, and you can be robbed of your money and valuables. Always ask your hotel staff about exchanging currency.

19. Time.

Zambia, Namibia, Mozambique, Botswana, Zimbabwe and South Africa are all 2 hours ahead of GMT.

20. Memories

Get a journal book, camera or camcorder to document your experiences.

Happy safari planning and enjoy the unspoiled African wild!

About The Author
I am native of Africa, currently resident in the USA. I would like to share my intimate knowledge of Southern Africa with people planning to go on an African Safari. Blog: http://savannasafaris.blogspot.com Websites: http://www.savannasafaris.com; http://www.victoriafallstours.net

Another New Caribbean Luxury All Inclusive Exclusive Resort On Antigua

by: Gareth Jones

New Caribbean Exclusive resorts open quite often nowadays, and Antigua is definitely an island that is fast becoming host to some of the best luxury boutique hotels in the Caribbean. The Hermitage Bay an all inclusive luxury boutique all suite hotel which is rapidly developing a worldwide reputation as one of the top ten all inclusive resorts in the world.

As befits a luxury boutique hotel Hermitage Bay has only twenty five secluded and spacious cottage suites which have been cleverly designed to blend with their tropical surroundings. You have a choice of two types of suites both situated overlooking a spectacular turquoise bay and a beautiful white powder sand beach. Firstly there are the Beach Cottage Suites which are along the side of the beach with partial or panoramic views of the sea. The Hillside Cottage Suites have a private plunge pool, and encircled by an open air verandah with incredible views of ocean and islands. Another feature is the open air garden shower.

You will find lovely decoration, a very comfortable bed, a massive tub, and high class toiletries supplied.



The cottages have of course every amenity you can think of, including flat screen television, ipod docking, and surround sound speakers, an all inclusive and regularly filled mini bar, and your own personal room ambassador, who will do everything from arranging excursions to making sure you have everything you need.

The service is exceptional even by Caribbean Exclusive resort standards. Everyone of the staff will go that extra mile, are extremely well trained and obviously proud to be on the staff of the Hermitage Bay.

The food is out of the top drawer for an all inclusive resort, and the dinner menu changes every night.The food is definitely more sophisticated than is the norm in an all inclusive hotel with great choice at all meals, and added to this is afternoon tea, all included in the price. Another important point is that service in the restaurant is quick, and glasses are replenished speedily.

The surroundings from the bay, the white sand beach to the gardens are close to perfection, and it certainly is noticeable that Hermitage Bay is an adult only resort.

One of the great features of the very large suites are the expansive verandahs.

The hotel pool is located right next to the main bar, and the three tier dining room is kept always cool from the sea breezes, as it is open to the bay. The watersports are fantastic, with experts teaching novices how to sail and snorkel.

It is great to be in such a top class all inclusive resorts where you recognise the internationally renowned spirits and mixers and you aren’t forced to suffer local brands, there are even 12 year old malts!

This absolutely top class Luxury Boutique Hotel has four outstanding features, the first and foremost being the service, followed by the food, the surroundings, and finally the suites. You will really enjoy a stay at the Hermitage Bay, and in fact like most other guests you won’t want to leave this exclusive Caribbean resort.

For more information on Antigua Vacation Spots go to http://www.antigua-vacationspots.com/pages/Site-Map.html

Leave Your Fondue Pot At Home: Travel To Switzerland

By: Frank Johnson

Switzerland, formally known as The Confederation Helvetica, is a landlocked mountainous haven in the heart of Europe. Partially due to the isolating geography, the Swiss people have maintained a strong commitment to tradition, independence and the preservation of their long-established way of life. Hence, it is very important for the traveler to note that Switzerland is not a member of the European Union and uses the Swiss Franc as their form of currency.

An incredible benefit of Switzerland's independence is a clean, speedy and reliable train system and public transportation network, including the new Rail 2000 program that offers regular half-hourly service between all major cities.

The thought of Switzerland strikes up images of enchanting castles, milk chocolate, fine cheese speckled with holes, sturdy watches and the Matterhorn. Don't be fooled by this simplicity or the precision and just-so design of Swiss towns and get ready to discover a society far more rich, worldly and dynamic than you had ever imagined when you travel Switzerland! As homogenous as the nation might appear, Switzerland is divided into very diverse regions with four national languages: German, French, Italian and Romansch (a Latin derivative). English is also spoken widely. The fusion of these cultures adds a zest of flavor that complements the serenely picturesque landscape.

Four Seasons to Travel to Switzerland

Unlike many other European destinations, it is wonderful to travel to Switzerland any time of year! Switzerland is centrally located on the European continent and consequently enjoys moderate and consistent weather for each season. Skiing is by far the best excuse to travel Switzerland in the winter, but make sure not to miss the splendor of cities like Geneva covered in a blanket of snow. Geneva, the second-largest city, is close to the Swiss Alps and the French border and also boasts an international history of its own. The municipality has been central to European affairs for centuries, most notably including the Geneva Convention. Interlaken should be a part of a summer and winter itinerary as well. The pristine setting among some of the tallest and fiercest alpine peaks makes Interlaken a sanctuary for skiers and hikers alike. The town is small and limited on lodging so make reservations early.

In addition to the most popular destinations, such as Zurich and the Alps, the Swiss traveler is encouraged to leave the beaten path behind to discover the true beauty of the country and meet the resilient and warm people who define a nation that is over 700 years old. Remember that traditional does not translate into old-fashioned or archaic in Switzerland. The Swiss society stands out among European nations as an extraordinarily progressive and cutting-edge standard of modernity.

Article Source: http://www.travelarticlelibrary.com

Leave Your Fondue Pot At Home: Travel To Switzerland

By: Ivaylo Yordanov

Although a pretty small country, Switzerland is a very famous one. The strange thing is that for the different people, Switzerland is famous with different things. When it comes to this country, some of us think of the wide variety of world-known cheeses it makes. Others think of the unbreakable watches made there or the popular Swiss banks. But for myself, I have found another great side of the country its gorgeous nature. That is why, as a nature-lover, I will try to present here the most beautiful places you can visit for a walk or drive.

For those of you who want to explore on foot and are not afraid of walking a bit more, here are some perfect places for doing so. A place that offers great views is Mount Santis at 2 502 meters above the sea level. It is perhaps the most impressive mount in the Alps and you can start your hike from the Wasserrauen village nearby. To Wasserrauen can get by train from another village - Appenzell. From Wasserrauen you can cross the 8,9 kilometer distance to Schwagalp, which is around 5 hours walk. From the Schwagalp village by cable car you will get to the platform, from where you can see the mount itself.

Another pretty famous walk is called The Great Watershed (Grosse Scheidegg). It is located in the Jungfrau region (central Switzerland) and can offer breathtaking views of glaciers and mountains. You can also see the massive rocks of the Wetterhorn. You can begin walking from the Meiringen village and finish in the Grindelwald resort, 21 kilometers farther. And there are also bust stops along the road.

Another hiking path is the Burgenstock Felsenweg, located in the area of Lake Lucerne. The landscape there will probably leave you breathless as it is one of the greatest in Switzerland. You can start from the Burgenstock resort and finish in Ennetburgen. The distance is around 7 kilometers and passes through gorgeous views of Mount Pilatus and Lake Lucerne.

I would also suggest visiting the lakes in the Upper Engadine. They are four in total and are located 1 771 meters above the sea level, but the hiking path is not steep at all. The distance is 14 kilometers and offers views of lakes and mountain ranges. You can begin from Maloja, pass through the gorgeous village Segl-Maria and finish on the banks of the lake in the Silvaplana resort (around 3 hours).

And finally I will just mention the most famous and beautiful drives. Perhaps the most popular is the road above the Great St. Bernard Pass, beginning from Zurich or Basel and ending in Italy. The road over the Furka Pass offers some amazing views of the nearby glacier. St. Gotthard Pass Road and the road over the Bernina Pass are also marvelous and popular but especially the last one can be dangerous if the winding road is icy. While the above mentioned may be surrounded by some bridges, the Simplon Pass Road fully uncovers the unspoilt beauty of the mountainous landscape.
There are many other places one can write about, but the most important thing is that if you want to get away from the big city traffic, you should try discovering the nature beauty of Switzerland.

Article Source: http://www.travelarticlelibrary.com

Ivaylo Yordanov is the author and can provide you with additional tourist info about Switzerland - use the Contact Us page of the site below. Additionally, more comprehensive information is available at www.switzerland-trips.com

What Makes These The Top Ten Ski Resorts For Downhill Skiing

Submitted By: James Brown

You can find what you want in a ski resort in one of these top ten places. Voted the best ten by readers of SKI magazine.


1. Vail, Colorado: This is a complex of three ski areas. Combined yet described as three distinct skiing areas. The Back Bowls is 3,017 acres. The frontside has 1,627 acres. The smallest, Blue Sky Basin is 645 acres. An exciting place to ski with a downhill run to thrill the most sophisticated tourist. The new Arrabelle Hotel Complex is opening this year. The popular Blue Moon restaurant is being renovated. This is an adult playground with skiing as a large part of it. If snow doesn't fall there -- they have a machine to make their own as many resorts now do. According to tourists the worst thing that can happen is your cell phone service doesn't work at times. A dream vacation for you. The slopes in the daytime and clubs at night.

2. Deer Valley, Utah: Ski on a total of six mountains. Bald Eagle Mountain, Baldy, Little Baldy Peak, Flagstaff Mountain, Bald Mountain and Empire. There are slopes for every skill level. The ski lifts have heaters in them. Take your appetite to Snow Park Lodge for a fabulous sea food buffet. It is so large you are advised to skip lunch. This resort area is family-friendly and there are some great package deals, some with discounted lift tickets. Flagstaff Mountain is especially beginner-friendly. It offers children's runs. There are play areas with names like Quincy's Cabin, Bucky's Backyard and other winsome names. The kids will love it.

3. Snow Mass, Colorado: This beautiful resort offers ski and snowboarding lessons for all ages. There are lessons for physically challenged to learn adaptive methods of skiing. The eight-passenger gondola takes skiiers to the slopes in record time. Many tourists are renting luxury homes instead of staying at a hotel in this luxurious area.

4. Whistler/Blackcomb, British Columbia: This resort features 8,171 acres. A thousand acres of high-alpine slopes are now available to intermediate skill skiiers. There is a charming European style town of 10,000. During the peak season for skiing the population will temporarily reach 30,000. Blackcomb Mountain is unique. You can ski there in June and July. It is the only place in North America that has glacier skiing available to the public.

5. Park City, Utah: The Wasach mountains 32 miles from Salt Lake City with three ski resorts withing minutes of the Park City. All beautiful locations with enough hotel rooms for 12,000 visitors. Be sure to go to the Bad Ass Coffee Company for some quiet time as well as great coffee.

6. Breckenridge, Colorado: This beautiful location features skiing lessons including private instruction. Recent Innovations include a new gondola to take you from parking lot to lifts. They feature a party honoring the Norse god of snow each year.

7. Aspen, Colorado: You might call this a resort for experienced skiiers only. There are no slopes designated for novices. There's free bus service between the four mountains in Aspen. You may see a performance by Lyle Lovett at the Wheeler Opera House or classical violinist at Harris Concert Hall. Stop for coffee and breakfast at the Main Street Bakery where the locals eat. It must be great food.

8. Beaver Creek, Colorado: This resort is in a stunningly beautiful area. The slopes wind gently between walls of pine trees on either side. There are 180 new acres open to skiiers on the eastern edge of the mountain. The Allegria Spa at the Park Hyatt Hotel is a high-end pampering salon. This is a luxury resort but there are package deals at the Pines Lodge. Go over to Red Tail Camp for a burger. An experience for all tourists.

9. Steamboat, Colorado: Exciting resort for college students on break. Snowboarding is very popular here. Be sure to visit the Thunderhead and Rendezvous for dining in a luxurious setting on the mountain. If you book a stay between February 7 and February 11 you can attend the "Steamboat Springs Winter Carnival." It is the oldest winter carnival West of Kansas.

10. Sun Valley, Idaho: Kids fifteen and younger can stay in Sun Valley Company hotels for free when with a parent. One event is a cross-country ski trip at night ending at the Galena Lodge for a five-course dinner.

The resorts are rated by readers of Ski Net. Presumably, the voters have skiing experience and have visited these resorts. Downhill skiing is a thrilling experience. Choose a slope appropriate for your skill level. Shop for designer ski jackets. Then after a day of skiing -- you can explore the night life scene. There may be a show or concert. Any of these top rated resort towns will provide a special vacation with many fun activities including special skiing events for everyone to participate in.

About the Author:

James Brown writes about Lonely Planet Travel Guides coupons, Big Bus Company discounts and Viator bargains

Pattaya Resort: One Of The World’s Best Resorts

Submitted By: KengIsm

Are you planning your next holidays? Pattaya is one of the most loved places by the tourists. So, if you too are planning to have great holidays try Thailand’s best beach resorts. Pattaya is Thailand’s capital and is famous for the resorts. A highly popular location amongst the tourists, it is a lively place, which is situated at the east coast of the gulf of Thailand.

Pattaya resort is considered one of the world’s best beach resorts and it is just 150 kilometers from Bangkok. The popularity of the resort can be evaluated by the numbers of visitors – fresh and repeat- who visit this place every year. It have been estimated that millions of people love to visit the Pattaya resort every year. These visitors include a people from different strata of society – families, retired coupes and even professionals.

They are so famous because of a number of elements present here. Here, you will find fine sandy beaches along with sports facilities as well as other fine attractions. So, the tourists have a lot of things to do here and unwind themselves. You can have loads of fun here during a memorable holiday and can find a good range of possibilities.

It is much loved by Europeans who have made it Asia’s premier beach resort. People say that this is the place where the East meets the West in the true sense. Once you get here, you are welcomed by a tropical ambience, which has got every component to provide you an exotic holiday experience. You have vibrant nightlife and you get the best hotels here. Additionally, you have a vast variety of cuisines along with the best dining facilities.

Besides this, if you are a sporty kind of person, you can give wings to your passions at this place. Here you get the finest of the sports activities. You can try your hand on game fishing, golfing and even scuba diving. Have you ever tried scuba diving! It is a great experience, so if you visit this place, do remember to have an experience of scuba diving – it would be a memorable moment. You should also find time to check out the various museums and amusement parks. There are places in the city where you can satiate the craving for cultural entertainment.

The resort comes to life after the sunset. The place has an abundance of discotheques, bars and nightclubs and you can check out some of them and burn the floor! This beach resort offers you a bold and beautiful holiday experience. All you have to do is willing to have this experience!

Also, most of the shops are open till late night and you can easily get the Thailand’s best buy here in the market. You can shop for jewellery, silk, tailor-made clothing, gems and handicrafts. For all these reasons Pattaya resort is considered a good retreat for anybody who is having a hectic life-schedule. So, visit Thailand’s capital and get the best holidays ever! What are you waiting for - pack your bags for Pattaya!

About the Author:

http://www.pattayahotelbooking.com

Venice City Guide

Submitted By: Marion Leming

Venice is made up of over 100 islands, all linked together by Venice's unique canal network. As one of the most beautiful cities in the world Venice won’t disappoint its visitors. Explore Venice’s famous canals, old bridges, stunning palazzos and great art. What to do and see in and around Venice

St Mark's Square

The crowded St Mark’s Square is probably Venice’s most famous square. Enjoy a coffee in one of the cafés while admiring the beautiful architecture surrounding you. Lots of Venice’s main attractions, such as the Campanile and the Clock Tower, can be found close by. Don’t miss the golden altar piece in the impressive St Mark’s Basilica.

Gallerie dell’Accademia

The Accademia Gallery has one of the finest art collections in Europe. The walls are lined with works by Venetian master painters including Bellini, Titian, Veronese and Tintoretto.

Palazzo Ducale & the Bridge of Sighs

The Palazzo Ducale was the home of the Doges from where they ran the Venetian state. You see all aspects of the life of the Doge from where he lived to where state matters were discussed and justice dispensed. Walk over the infamous Bridge of Sighs, whose name comes from the time when the bridge led from the court to the prison cells. The Prisoners saw the view of the beautiful lagoon and sighed.

Ca’ d’Oro

Ca’ D’Oro (House of Gold) located on the Grand Canal is a beautiful palazzo and a great example of gothic architecture. The Palazzo shows a fine collection of sculptures, tapestries and paintings.

Santa Maria della Salute

Guarding the entrance to the Grand Canal is Santa Maria della Salute a Venetian landmark and a magnificent Baroque Church. The sacristy boasts paintings by Titian and Tintoretto’s Marriage at Cana.

San Giorgio Maggiore

The San Giorgio Maggiore church is a well known Venetian landmark designed by Palladio the famous renaissance architecture. Inside, you will find several of Tintoretto’s paintings including "The Last Supper".

Canals

It’s impossible to think of Venice without thinking of canals and Gondolas. Cars are not allowed in the city and all transportation is on water. Travel like a true Venetian, hop on the Vaporati (water bus) and travel along the Grand Canal. It will take you under the Rialto Bridge and is a perfect way to admire the beautiful palaces lining the Canal.

Rialto Markets

The lively Rialto Markets are open evey morning. Fruit, vegetables, souvenirs and clothing are on offer. The Fish market has been held here for 1000 years - don't miss the live lobsters and crabs.

Scuola Grande di San Rocco

The Scuola Grande di San Rocco is one of Venice’s finest art museums with an impressive collection of more than 50 of Tintoretto’s works.

Peggy Guggenheim Collection

The Venier dei Leoni Palace was the home of American collector Peggy Guggenheim for 30 years. Now it is a museum with a most impressive collection of modern art. Artists represented include Magritte, Picasso, Pollock and Kandinsky.

The Lido

20 minutes by waterbus from Venice

The Lido is a long strip of sand sheltering Venice lagoon from the Sea. The island’s sandy beaches make it a popular day trip destination for families and sun worshippers.

Verona

80 minutes by train from Venice

The charming city of Verona has plenty to offer its visitors including roman monuments, impressive architecture and delightful restaurants. Make sure you don’t miss the Roman Arena where an open-air opera festival takes place every year.

About the Author:

This article was written by Marion Leming who is the PR and Marketing Manager for weekend city breaks company Railbookers.