Boosting the Strength

Your Guide to Heavenly Homes

Buying a vacation home is a big deal. No matter where you decide to purchase, you need to make sure that you are fully informed and prepared for the purchase you're going to make. Buying a vacation home in North Cyprus is a great alternative to many common, overpopulated vacation destinations. Located in the Mediterranean Sea, Cyprus offers an island feel like no other. In addition to tourism, they also have five universities that are growing every year, along with a housing market that is booming. This is your North Cyprus vacation property guide; everything you need to know about buying a vacation home you can learn here.
There are plenty of different types of vacation homes in North Cyprus. Whether you're looking to spend under GBP 100,000 on a cute little apartment or cottage, or have unlimited funds and want a multi-million dollar sprawling estate, there's something for everyone in this island country. Most of the homes in Cyprus are owned by vacationers and part-time residents, so you will have plenty in common with the people that you meet. You can find beach-front homes, city apartments, country cottages, and more in the North Cyprus vacation property guide.
When you decide to buy a vacation property, you need to know that you're financially stable enough to afford a second home. You also need to research mortgages in Cyprus and make sure that you understand all the different laws and rules involved in buying property here. Although home purchases are relatively similar, there are slight differences in home purchases in each different company that may make a difference in your home loan. If you're fortunate enough to be able to buy a home outright, then you won't have to worry about the ins and outs of mortgages and the North Cyprus vacation property guide.
You need to find a realtor and a mortgage that meet your needs. Even if it takes a little longer than you wanted to get things in order, it's better than rushing into something and getting a bad deal or making a bad investment. No matter what you decide when looking for a vacation home in Cyprus, taking time to educate yourself will be your most important goal. An informed buyer is much better prepared for something of this magnitude than an uninformed buyer. If you know enough, you'll be able to find the perfect home and a great investment with very little effort.







Some Excellent Beaches in Cyprus

Cyprus offers the ultimate beach holiday - warm golden sand, the crystal clear Mediterranean sea and glorious warm sunshine.
The most famous beach is Cyprus in called Phinikoudes in the resort of Larnaca. It is a fabulous 500 metre stretch of sand and its facilities include toilets, showers, disabled access and changing rooms. Sun beds and umbrellas can be hires and a selection of water sports are on offer. For your safety, there is a lifeguard on duty throughout the summer. Along the palm tree-lined coast there are a selection of amenities such as cafes, restaurants and mini markets.
In the centre of the popular resorts of Protaras and Agia Napa is Pernera beach. This picturesque beach of golden sand and moderate waves has been awarded with a blue flag for its cleanliness and offers a range of water sports.
Coral Bay is a 600m horseshoe cove with white sand and shallow waters. The resort is lined with shops, bars and restaurants with a wide range of Cypriot and international cuisine. Home of some beautiful private villas, Coral Bay is a perfect base to explore the pristine coastline to the north, where a tapestry of coves and inlets hide some of the best, and most isolated beaches on this beautiful island.
The Argaka Coast lies on the unspoilt, north-west coast of Cyprus, at the foot of the Paphos forest. This whole coastline is magnificent sea and is an excellent location for a beachfront villa holiday. This area offers a choice of charming coffee shops, mini- markets and Cypriot taverns serving local delicacies.


Living on the Big Island of Hawaii - Just a Dream Or Legends of Mermaids?

Has Big Island Real Estate, always been there in the back of your mind? It is the American dream and the dream of people from other countries such as Japan, China, Europe as well.
Many people who live in Hawaii, who came from someplace else, often tell stories of getting off the airplane and having the distinct feeling that they were always meant to be there. The islands take you in with a warm aloha embrace. Some people talk about being on the islands in another life even. There is a distinct mystic and enchantment found on the islands that are no where else.
Hawaii is known as the Big Island. Each island is considered to be a 'county', so the Big Island, or Hawaii, is a county, as is Kauai, Oahu, Maui, Molokai, and Lanai. Hawaii claims the second largest in population estimated at about 158,000 plus residents. The Kona side of the island is rather dry and has an average of 72 degrees in the winter months and around 82 degrees in the summer. The east side, known by locals as the Hilo side, has more rain and tends to be cooler and much greener because of its extra rainfall.
The Big Island offers dramatic scenery along the lush and beautiful Hilo coastline. Hawaii is an explorers dream with two active volcanoes, Kilauea and Mauna Loa and three dormant volcanoes, Kohala, Manuna Kea and Hualalai, for the geology enthusiasts. Hawaiian legend tell tales of Pele, the goddess of the volcano Kilauea, giving artists, dreamers and writers a distinct world of enchantment. Many hula and Hawaiian chanting often suggest Pele in their expressive messages. Legends of mermaids were born here.
Amazingly, Hilo side also offers snow skiing on Mauna Kea because of its snow capped mountains! They snow ski on the Big Island, not just surf. While there are no ski lifts, locals and visitors alike do snow ski at different times of the year.
Mauna Kea is actually the tallest mountain in the world, even taller than Mt. Everest! Measuring from the ocean floor to its highest peak, Mauna Kea is 93 miles (150 km) across and has a land area of 4,028.0 square miles (10,432.5 km)representing 62% of the total land area of the Hawaiian Islands. Mauna Kea has some of the best ground-based astronomical observatories as well. Hawaii is a star gazers dream indeed.
Other attractions to the Big Island on Hilo side include, the University of Hawaii at Hilo, Hawaii Community College, the Merrie Monarch Festival, which is a week-long celebration of ancient and modern hula. It is served by Hilo International Airport.
So there it is, Hawaii, land of enchantment, dreams and legends of mermaids, sailors and sea captains and perhaps yours as well.
Look to Renting a Vacation Home If You Have Children

Traveling when I was single was completely different once I got married. Going on a vacation with the "guys" is a different experience than spending time with the wife. When I was younger my friends and I decided to take a Vegas vacation. It was the ultimate "guy" trip in the town labeled sin city. We hit clubs and bars, we gambled, you name it, and we had a good time.
A few years later after I got married I went back to Vegas with my wife and experienced it in a completely different fashion. We enjoyed going to shows, riding the gondola at the Venetian, taking the time to slow walk along the Vegas strip to enjoy the sites and the sounds. I can say that both experiences were great.
Fast forward a couple more years and we now have a child. I have already assured my wife that I am not taking my son to Vegas (anytime soon anyway). If you are in the same situation as me, and find yourself with a young child but still long for that week get away, you can do what my wife and I currently do.
As great as some hotels are, they just are not that accommodating to families with infants or toddlers under two years of age. If you are like us and your youngster still needs a crib, or needs to take those morning and afternoon naps, than I highly recommend renting a house for your next week long vacation.
We recently stayed in North Carolina's Outer banks. It was a wonderful location and the people there were friendly. What made it just as enjoyable was the fact that we were able to rent a good sized house, split it with family members, save some money and still have a great vacation.
The house gave us the ability to lug our crib there, his toys and other supplies that we would just not have had the room for at a hotel or Inn. Along with that, the house also gives us the extra added convenience of a kitchen where we can prepare our meals at anytime (and as many of you parents know it is hard to dine out when you have a young one at home) at our convenience.
This particular house had a back deck, swimming pool, hot tub and game room. So there were enough amenities to keep everybody happy and we did not have to be in a crowded room with everyone else from a hotel.
Since we have had our first child we have taken two vacations where we have rented a home. The first was in Martha's Vineyard (another beautiful location that I highly recommend) and of course the Outer Banks. Although the houses were completely different in price and what they offered, each gave us the convenience we needed since we had a small child with us.
There are a number of websites you can go to where you can look up vacation home rentals for your next trip. I recommend that you price out at least five of them. Make sure the house you end up renting has the amenities you are looking for and is in a location close enough to the attractions that you plan of visiting. If the house has a pool, hot tub and all of those bells & whistles, yet is 45 minutes to an hour away from the amusement park you are going there to visit in the first place, it might make more sense to drop a couple of the amenities or pay a little more to save on gas and travel time.
Consider renting a house for your next vacation. Even if you do not have small children, if you get enough people together to split the rent, it might just cost less than a nightly stay at the local hotel or inn.


Best Places For Your Luxury Vacation Home


Many people will decide to buy a luxury vacation home at some time in their lives. The only question they have is where to buy or build it. The best place for your luxury vacation home really depends on you and your family. If you love fishing, you probably don't want your vacation home to be located in the desert right? Let's take a look at a few areas to see what they have to offer.
The Mountains
If you love to ski, fly fish, hunt and hike, an area with easy access to mountain ranges is probably perfect for you. You can ski and snowboard in the winter, hike and fish in the summer, hunt in the fall, and enjoy the mild weather in the spring. Mountainous areas offer you privacy if you want it but can also be in or near many major cities.
The Beach
Let's face it. Who doesn't dream of a luxury beach house to vacation to? Almost everyone loves the beach. You can fish, engage in tons of water sports, enjoy the laid back atmosphere of beach communities, and just relax and listen to the waves.
Your Hometown
People have a very strong sense of heritage and many move away to pursue careers and other opportunities. Some people really enjoy being able to vacation in the place they grew up so they can share the experience with their families.
The only way to find the perfect place for your luxury vacation home is to gather your family around and see what everyone has to say. Certain places like Southern California offer access to many types of terrain.

Why Holiday Villas Are Popular in Most Holiday Destinations


Holiday villas with swimming pools are becoming a very popular form of holiday accommodation with holiday makers going on a family holiday. You are now able to stay in a holiday villa in most countries in the world.
These holiday villas are especially popular in countries with a warm climate. There is nothing better than sitting outside your holiday villa by the side of the swimming pool with a cool drink.
When choosing a holiday villa for your vacation you need to consider very carefully what sort of holiday that you want. The first thing to consider is what sort of climate that you are looking for. There are typically holiday villas in most climates but there is a much greater selection of villa in the countries that have a warmer climate. You must decide how hot you want it to be and what time of the year you want to go away on your villa holiday.
Having decided on the climate, you must then look to see which country can offer you that climate on your vacations. Some countries may require you to get a visa to spend your vacations there and other countries that you consider for a villa holiday may require certain vaccinations before you go there. Then check how long it will take you to fly to your chosen destination and also if there are flights available.
Once you have done this you can start thinking about what sort of villa accommodation that you are looking for. There are some superb villas available around the world and they vary in price to suite just about every budget.
For holiday makers looking for a relaxing holiday by the beach it is possible to find some stunning villas with swimming pools right by coast. For families looking for a villa in the mountains there are also plenty to choose from with some offering spectacular views over the local countryside.
Most holiday villas have swimming pools. You must check to see if you want a swimming pool with your holiday villa and what size the swimming pool is. Many holiday villas also have outside barbecue areas and outdoor sitting areas. In some countries that have mosquitoes you will find that some of the holiday villas have mesh screens around them to keep the bugs out.
It is possible to find holiday villas to suite almost every budget. There are some small two bedroom holiday villas and also some huge holiday villas with seven or eight bedrooms. Some families like to go on a villa holiday by themselves and others like to stay in a larger holiday villa and take friends with them.
Atypical holiday villa will have bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms. Typically the master bedroom or suite will be much larger than the other bed rooms in the villa. It will also have the best bathroom in the villa. Typically it will have a walk in shower, large bath and his and hers washbasins and a toilet. Above the washbasins will be a large mirror and below there will be plenty of storage space.

Summer Vacation Homes


How wonderful would it be to own a home that sits on a beautiful white sandy beach down in the tropics of Mexico? Maybe the more quiet serene atmosphere of the Vancouver Mountains more closely suits your style. Whatever a person's tastes may be, vacation homes have become a very popular trend among those with large families. Although a trip to Disney World makes for a wonderful family trip, the limitations that come from staying in a hotel can become very frustrating. There is nothing better than feeling like you are sitting in the comforts of your own home while on a summer vacation with your family. This is why there is such a large desire for beach homes, and mountain cabins in the real estate market today.
When renting or owning a vacation getaway home, the possibilities are endless. Children can enjoy the beauty of the outdoors while parents sit quietly in the den and read their favorite novels. Depending on the geographical location, beach or mountain homes can be pricey but in the long run families are actually saving more. Think about it. When taking a vacation to say Disney World, costs can become extremely high because of having to eat out every night, hotel room costs, park tickets and renting a rental car. However when renting a vacation home, meals can be cooked rather than bought and people can drive their own cars right to the house, eliminating the confusion of a middleman. Another great cost saver for people who own a vacation home is that when they are not planning to be there, the home can be rented out to other families for a certain number of weeks at a time. Sometimes the property taxes and mortgages of a beach or mountain home can be very pricey due to their prime locations, but by garnering extra income from renting the home out, these costs are drastically reduced.
Despite rumors and news that the real estate market is in a downward spiral, summer vacation homes are still very popular among families looking to enjoy a trip that provides all the comforts of being in their own homes.

Orlando Vacation Homes - Luxury Accommodations on a Budget!


Luxury accommodations on a budget may sound like a contradiction, but when you are talking about Orlando vacation homes, it is a fact. If you want to enjoy a vacation in Orlando without breaking your budget, then the best way to do it is to get a vacation home rental rather than book hotel rooms. In case you are not familiar with the advantages offered by vacation home rentals, let me walk you through the main points.
Let's start with luxury and comfort. I have always said, "You don't cram together in one or two rooms at home, so why do it on your vacation?" The vacation homes in the Orlando area range from two bedroom condominiums right up to seven bedroom villas. You will not be limited to one or two rooms rather you will have an entire home to enjoy.
The homes are all fully furnished and well equipped with amenities that you probably do not have in your own home. All the homes have full air-conditioning and heating, TV with cable connections, DVD, furnishing and fully equipped kitchens. Many of the vacation homes have private pools, spas, game rooms and additional TVs in each room.
Think about what this means when you are on vacation. You can give your children their own room or rooms and they can sleep soundly. You can come back from a park or attraction and enjoy a leisurely barbeque right beside your own private swimming pool. You combine all the comfort of home with the pleasures of resort living.
If you are worried about location, then I have good news for you. These vacation homes are located within minutes of Disney World and other key attractions of the Orlando area. You won't have to spend a lot of time in your car and you can be more flexible. Go out to Disney World in the morning, come back "home" to rest and relax, go back to the parks in the afternoon. When you are within ten or fifteen minutes of Disney World, then all of this is possible.
I am leaving the best part to last. Let's talk about price. If you think you have to pay through the nose to get your own luxury vacation home or villa with a next-to-Disney location, then you will be happy to know that you are wrong. How much would you pay for 1500 square feet and three bedrooms if you were staying in a hotel? You would certainly pay a lot more than $130 per night, which is the starting price for a three bedroom vacation rental 15 minutes from Disney World.
With prices like this the Orlando vacation homes provide extraordinary possibilities for saving money. In addition, if you combine your vacation with friends or relatives then the savings are increased. For example you can get a luxury eight bedroom villa starting at $500 per night. Get your calculator out and you will see that if you have between 8-14 people in your party the per-person costs are truly attractive.
So, take a look at Orlando vacation homes featured on this website and reserve the home that is best for you.
Vacation Homes Benefits in Comparison With Hotels



If you are planning a nice vacation, a good alternative is to look for vacation homes. The benefits you gain from these places are comparable to what a hotel can offer. Vacation rentals are increasing in popularity day by day as more people appreciate what they can gain going there. Privacy, comfort, space, and intimacy are just some of the things a vacation rental can offer. Virtually, it is your home away from home.
The best vacation homes in the land can provide more privacy for you and your family as good as higher levels of comfort than hotels offer. For many people it is important to require an intimate and safety environment for their families and friends while on vacation. Maybe, it is because such conditions lead to meditate and then relax.
A home for your vacation will make you able to spend all the time in the thing you want: rest, eat and enjoy the moment simply marvel at the beautiful natural landscape around. These are the wonderful things that you loose at home, when you are always hurrying at work or are day by day rushing to make your homework. If you can retreat a place that feels like home minus the hustles and bustles, then you're really on vacation.
Vacation Homes Are Cheaper and Mostly Offer More than Hotels
Great Service
Actually, many vacation homes provide excellent customer service to clients. Sometimes, their services are even better than good hotels in food service, cleaning, laundry, and even personal errands that you might require while on your beach vacation.
No Additional Charges
If you are pampered indeed, then you can enjoy a wonderful holiday for you and yours. You might notice that these services mean additional charges to pay, but if you consider the level of personal service you are getting - at still a much lower price than from an exclusive hotel - you should be more than willing to pay for it. Renting a vacation home will make you feel as if you are the King or Queen of the World.
More About Vacation Homes
The vacation homes from the top row are usually the first ones to get booked, but in the last years are looking for Ocean View ones. It also follows that they are more expensive in comparison with the Ocean View. The Ocean View vacation homes have amazing landscapes too. And in many instances, they offer spots that also are nearer to nature.
If you are ready to rent vacation homes, it is nice to consider your budget. Think about and decide on the main activity, something that you prefer to do while on vacation. Only then, you can proceed to select the best house and the decision will be much easier. Don´t forget that in most cases, different prices represent different qualities of services.
To make a good deal, do some research over internet. Find out more about the vacation rental you're looking to take for holiday. You have to be sure that it is as good as you expected it to be. Also make your reservation with enough time. For some places it is enough making it a few weeks to a month before the date of vacation; but exotic places need more time.
Experts say that preparing a last minute travel almost always means trouble during vacation, so take care about this point. Planning a good vacation will maximize special moments without throwing away money; but consider leave some spaces to look what´s going around. Maybe you will find a great surprise.


Cheap Property in France - Your French Property Dream Is Still Out There




As I write this in late Spring of 2008 the exchange rate of the dollar and the pound against the Euro seems to be settling out a little - albeit at about 18% below where it was at the start of the year. This, of course, has had a massive effect on people looking for cheap property in France.
The good news is that French property bargains still exist. You might have to look a bit longer and work a bit harder but if your dream is of owning a home in France it's still an achievable dream.
As an expat living in France I regularly speak to people who are looking for budget French property, usually as a holiday home but occasionally with a view to a permanent move. There are less of them around at this early part of the year but they're all concerned about whether they'll be able to find something. They now find themselves with about a fifth less to spend than they thought they had at Christmas.
Just a quick aside here. Spring is actually a great time to view. You can't guarantee what the weather's going to be like but because you're less likely to be seduced by fields of sunflowers you're more likely to concentrate on the actual condition of the property.
Anyway, back to our main theme.
Cheap French property is still out there if you know where to look and if you're prepared to be flexible.
I'm definitely not advocating that you buy an old barn to convert or a tumble-down cottage - unless you're an experienced builder. The property itself may be cheap but renovating an old house in France isn't. There's a good reason why so many French buy new houses and leave the old ones to us experts - it's because new French homes are much more affordable.
I'm not saying you shouldn't buy an old French house - they can be a delight - I'm just saying be very careful about renovation. It can easily cost you as much again as the purchase, or even more in some cases. I know, I've done it.
What I am advocating is going to the areas a little less known. There are several things that put up house prices everywhere - not just in France - so it follows that avoiding them will put you in a more affordable region.
Being close to the sea is a big one. Move further inland and the prices begin to fall quite swiftly. Close to the mountains, particularly ski resorts, is also a hot-spot and you'll pay accordingly. Likewise near airports, especially with the number of cheap flights now available.
Of course your definition of cheap property in France might not be same as mine and will certainly vary from person to person. If you're from London or New York, most places in France will probably seem quite affordable (except Paris). In fact if you're from the UK almost everywhere has properties that are less expensive than at home! On the other hand if you're from less highly populated areas of the US you'll find French house prices are pretty much what you're used to.
By the time you read this, the exchange rate might be much higher - I certainly hope so because it will undoubtedly give you more scope. However, France is a big country and if you're prepared to do the research and perhaps be a bit more flexible in your choice of area then you'll find cheap property in France is still readily available. I bet one is just right for you!

Booking Your Vacation Online - Booking A Private Holiday Home


For many of us taking our annual two week summer vacation is the highlight of the year, having made it through the long cold winter months, fighting off illness after illness and putting up with cold dark mornings and nights when we get to the warmer months of the year we feel as though we have earned the right to have a bit of a relax on the beach and enjoy some quality time with the family. Over the past 15-20 years the holiday market has changed greatly, with the greatest changes coming in the past 10 years mainly thanks to the growth of the internet and the rise in popularity of the low cost airlines that now fly to so many popular destinations. Because of these changes the way we book and take our vacations has evolved from being a trip down to the local travel agent to see what deals were available to being able to book our vacation ourselves directly with the accommodation and the airline. So with more vacation options available to us than ever before where should we look to book our vacation to this year?
In years gone by the most popular holiday accommodation was the hotel complex with a pool but now more and more people are moving away from this conventional holiday accommodation and are looking to book themselves and their family a private holiday home away from the masses of tourists that invade many resorts each year.
The benefits of booking a private holiday home are numerous but the main attraction for many families is the versatility that a private holiday home allows you as well as the peace and quiet that you will generally get when staying away from the tourist throngs. Many private holiday homes tend to be out of town properties that offer great access to both the surrounding countryside as well as all of the local amenities as well as having more facilities than your average holiday hotel room.
Depending on what you are looking for in a holiday home you will generally be able to find something to meet you needs by searching on the inter web for a property that perfectly suits the needs of your family, whether it be the number of bedrooms that you require, a larger kitchen or a swimming pool, by comparing the properties available at your chosen destination you should be able to find a private holiday home that both suits your pocket and your requirements.
Many of the private holiday homes that are available for rent are owned by families that themselves use the property throughout the year and then rent it out when they do not require it, these are always a better option to go for than a holiday home that is just solely for rent and not used by the owners as they will usually have all of the creature comforts that you would expect of a holiday home rather than being a basic holiday dwelling.
Finding your ideal private holiday home is easy if you use the inter web and does away with having to rely on a travel agent to sort your holiday for you, all you need to do is make contact with the property owner and sort out your flights, which is now much easier than in the past, and there you have a ready made holiday that exactly matches your requirements.

Mexico Vacation Homes - Top Vacation Properties in Playa


Playa del Carmen, located in the state of Quintana Room on the beautiful Caribbean Coast in the heart of the Mayan Riviera, has experienced a huge population growth in recent years. This seems mainly due to the discovery of the once quiet area by foreigners, mostly Europeans and closely followed by Americans. With its beautiful white Caribbean beaches, clear warm turquoise Caribbean waters, gentle waves and stunning coral reefs. Located 68km (42mi) south of Cancun, the warm sub-tropical temperature and sunny clear days throughout the year, make the lifestyle of Playa del Carmen one of relaxed beachside living. Annual temperatures range from 25 to 35 degrees.
Property in Quintana Room, Playa del Carmen has the wonderful benefit of mixing traditional Mexican culture with a variety of European influences that are evident in the shopping, restaurants, and general atmosphere of the town. Quinta Avendida, or 5 th Avenue, and Avenue Principal are the main streets where you will find everything from hotels of varying price ranges, shops, and basic amenities such as a medical centre, post office, police station and a variety of banks, ATM's and money exchanges. Quinta Avendida is the most popular area, where you can wander down the street, now made into a pedestrian walkway, and visit some quaint shops, see some boutique hotels, and experience some of the best dining in Mexico. Many of the shops, hotels and restaurants will accept American Dollars.
One of the things that draw tourists to Mexico Beachfront Real Estate, Playa del Carmen is the easy access to Cozumel Island, which is only a short boat ride. If you want to take the leisurely trip to Cozumel and take in the beautiful coastal sights along the way then sail to Cozumel via the Xel-H or Cozumelero, which is a 45min boat ride. For those keen to get into the stunning snorkeling and diving that Cozumel has to offer, then there is the fast waterjet, the WJ Mexico, which is only a 25min boat ride.
If you are a keen diver, then you will not want to miss the spectacular diving that is available along the Great Mayan Reef, which is the second largest coral reef system in the world. Dive tours are plentiful and easily booked in many areas in Playa del Carmen.
The most common beaches at Playa del Carmen are Playa Paamul and Playa Paraiso, where you will find an extensive array of water sports equipment for hire, making a day out as exciting or as relaxing as you would so desire.
But if you want a break from the beach, I would suggest to visit Playa's attractive faro, or lighthouse, where you can climb to the top for an impressive view over Playa del Carmen's wonderful scenery. Or venture further afield for a trip to Tulum or Chetumal to see the impressive ancient Mayan ruins, giving a wonderful insight into the ancient civilization of the Mayan people.


Free Vacation and Holiday Accommodation - The Options and the Realities


Travel is the number one spends on the internet and suppliers of hotel rooms, property rentals, bed and breakfast establishments use many methods of attracting business in the highly competitive business, one method is the offer of "free accommodation", but how free is it, or is it just a marketing ploy?
The term free may offer a period of time in a property without charge, but there are many other costs which potentially dilute that value in real terms:
- travel to and from the destination - this could be a simple drive to the next county or state, a train or coach journey across country or a flight to another country with associated car hire or taxi to reach the actual destination.
- food, may well be extra, or allow you to self cater, or eat out, many free accommodation offers insist a minimum daily spend on food or other features of the location - service charges, leisure membership etc.
- insurance - vital in case things go wrong or you, or members of your party are taken ill or have accidents, sometimes the vendor of the free accommodation insists your insure via them at inflated prices.
On the upside, free accommodation is often offered to attract people to a new location or facility, but do not expect 3 weeks for 10 people to be thrown in. Many free offers are just one night, or a weekend, and many insist you only get 3 free if you book and pay for 3 more or other variations. Such offers can potentially be just a reduction on the normal price. Paying for 3 of 6 may still cost more than another location full price for 6 without any offers, so do look at not only what you get in a deal, but what other are offering too.
A new idea that seems to be taking off is the concept of home owners trading accommodation with other members, another variation of the well established Home Swapping concept where members trade homes with each other for a few weeks. Potentially millions of family already home swaps annually.
The new accommodation swap concept widens the scope offering a simple few night’s bed and breakfast stays for say a couple or a family and then take up the same accommodation at a different time. The program relies on an element of good will, and each side needs to get to know each other first via phone or email, using established social networking principals.
Members can also trade self catering accommodation in unused rental property, hotel room, second home or time share, as well as the traditional full home swap.
Free Accommodation remains an emotive word for most travelers, but remembers in most cases the use of the word "free" is to attract you to their web site and book your next vacation or holiday. "Free" may potentially be just another discount in disguise.

Hawaii Condo Rentals for the Greatest Vacation of Your Life!

Hawaii is the youngest and largest of all the islands in the Hawaiian Chain. The island is commonly known as "The Big Island", to eliminate confusion with Hawaii, the state. The interesting thing about Hawaii is that the island continues to grow thanks to Mount Kilauea. Mount Kilauea is an active volcano in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park which continues to spew lava into the ocean creating more land. The Big Island is not known for its beaches as the other islands are, but Hawaii condo rentals offer a lot more than others. The Volcanoes National Park is the centerpiece of the island and attracts many visitors every year to admire the wonder of an active volcano that has been continually erupting since 1983.
In the center of the island you will find Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, two dormant volcanoes and the also the highest point in Hawaii. Mauna Loa has been classified as the largest volcano on earth. Mauna Kea, its neighbor, is the tallest point in Hawaii at 13, 796 feet and when measured from the base to the summit, the tallest mountain in the world. While Mount Everest is the tallest mountain in the world, Mauna Kea has another 20,000 feet which is buried underneath the ocean bringing its height to 33,000 feet. This is a wonderful place to stargaze at night or admire the island from above. With the island's location in the Pacific, it contains the southernmost point of the United States. Known as Ka Lae or South point, it also the site of an unusual beach. Papakolea is a green sand beach and only two are known to exist anywhere in the world, the other being in Guam. The journey to the Green Sand Beach is difficult, but if you are up to the challenge, it is well worth the trip from your Hawaii condo.
The island has three other National Parks which include Pu'uhonua Honaunau, a sacred burial ground and home to the Royal Chiefs of Hawaii. A Hawaii rental on the Big Island is also a great place to go whale watching when the migrating season pushes them from up north to the warmer waters of Hawaii. Quick Tips/Suggestions: Highway 200, otherwise known as Saddle Road, crosses between Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea. If you are looking at the map and you want to cross from one side of the island to another, it may appear that Highway 200 is the quickest route. However, Highway 200 has so many curves and dips that it nearly impossible to go faster than 30 miles an hour. It is more advisable to take the longer route and go a lot faster.
If you plan to visit the Green Sand Beach, be advised that due to the conditions of the road leading to the beach, that many car rental companies forbid you to take their cars on the road. If you do in violation of the agreement, they can void your contract. Clear it with the car rental company before proceeding. The Big Island has two major airports, Hilo and Kona, the two major cities on the island. The only way to get around the island is by car. There is limited transportation in the two major cities. The roads on the Big Island follow the coastline. The only road that cuts across the island, Highway 200, should not be used except for visiting Mauna Loa or Mauna Kea. The drive from Kona to Hilo is about a 100 miles and takes about two hours.

The Lifestyle of Napa County is Relaxed and Sophisticated
The residents of Napa County enjoy both a refined and relaxed lifestyle in one of the most beautiful valleys in California. The towns are small, and residential homes are mixed in with larger properties like farms and vineyards. Homes are generally built to be environmentally friendly and all locals support conservation and recycling efforts. Most people shop in the downtown areas where they get most of what they need at local groceries, specialty stores, and shops. The calendar of events is full throughout the year and includes festivals, fundraisers, and concerts. Families and many single professionals earn a higher income than the national average. There is also a population of retirees as well as seasonal residents.
The exclusive qualities of the Napa Valley allow for the lifestyle in Napa County to be above average. Leisure activities are abundant and enriching. Festivals are frequent, well-attended, and covered by international press. This includes prestigious events like the annual Napa Sonoma Wine Country Film Festival, Annual Friends of the Napa River Festival, Napa Valley Mustard Festival, and the Sonoma County Tomato Festival. The fully restored Lincoln Theater brings internationally acclaimed entertainment to the valley and the historic Napa Valley Opera House presents a full season of musical theater. There are many local art and natural history museums as well as museums that focus on the wineries and agriculture of the area. Because of this, local residents enjoy a rural, yet sophisticated lifestyle.
The cuisine is healthy and much of the food is locally grown. Locally grown foods include fruit, vegetables, olives, honey, mustard, meats, and dairy. Freshly caught seafood is brought in every week from San Fransisco. Of course, the most well-known products of the Napa Valley are the wines, which flow freely at over one hundred and thirty local restaurants. There are also farmer's markets where tourists and residents alike can buy seasonal produce.
Outdoor activities are abundant and include championship golfing, lake fishing, ballooning, outdoor paintball, hiking, horseback riding and boating. There is even a flying school for individuals who wish to obtain a pilot license for single and multi-engine airplanes. The ground school combines classroom instruction along with computer simulated flying to prepare students for flights at the local Napa Airport.
Shopping is abundant. Of course, there is nearby San Francisco, but Napa County boasts its own unique and high-end shopping outlets. There are many independent bookstores, home design centers, art galleries and clothing boutiques that offer one of a kind merchandise. Along with locally owned restaurants, most of these stores are located on the main streets of walkable downtown areas to offer a completely relaxing shopping experience.
Although tourism is a mainstay in Napa Valley, the residential properties are sectioned off in such a way as to be accessible, yet still allow for privacy. Residents are sophisticated, well-heeled, generally environmentally aware, and appreciative of what life has to offer. Napa County has been home to quite a few notable people, including famous authors, entertainers, and historical figures. Overall, the lifestyle of Napa County is relaxed, healthy, and slow paced.

Launceston Hotels - Filled With Comfort and Elegance
You can also have a great shopping experience here. Likewise, various dining and wining options are made available by popular restaurant chains. To make your journey more joyous, hotels in Launceston offer modern amenities and services.
A beautiful city located in the north of Tasmania State in Australia, Launceston is one of the famous tourist destinations of the country. Launceston is nestled in the Tamar River Valley, the junction of North Esk, South Esk, and Tamar Rivers. Travelers are offered Tamar River Cruises which take them to a pleasurable journey at the rippling waters of these rivers. Apart from this, there are numerous attractions to be explored which exist in the form of museums, monuments, parks and gardens, and art galleries. Not only this, Launceston is a home to a number of forest reserves as well as ancient houses. Journey at this amazing spot becomes more cherishing with the availability of homelike accommodation facilities offered by Launceston Hotels.
Perfectly set amid natural serenity, hotels in Launceston make available modern amenities and services. All kinds of traveler can find a suitable hotel. Ranging from budget to premium to luxury, these hotels serve each and every guest with great hospitality. Some of the major Launceston Hotels include Tamar River Villas, Mercure Hotel, City Park Grand Hotel, Country Club Tasmania, and Hatherley House. Another major factor about these hotels is their ideal location. They are not only conveniently accessible from the airport but also lie in close proximity to Central Business District and well-known sites of Launceston.
Launceston is a wonderful paradise for vacationers. Its pleasant weather truly adds delight to your whole experience. Its glory is showcased by charming attractions including Inveresk Art Gallery, National Automobile Museum, Penny Royal World, York Park, Punchbowl Reserve, The Old Launceston Seaport, Franklin House, Heritage Forest, Richies Mill, Devils Heaven, and Silverdome. Sports lovers can head towards the Riverside Golf Club to play this thrilling game. The city also caters to your rejuvenation. Its Aquaris Roman Baths offers various soothing massage treatments as well as a health club containing state of the art equipments.
Shopping and nightlife in Launceston have their own significance. There are so many shopping malls and complexes which not only offer sale but also encompass various dining and wining spots. When then sun sets, whole ambience in Launceston becomes dazzling. You can relish delectable delicacies at restaurants, bars, and clubs while dancing to the tune of music. This is perhaps a good medium to get relief from the whole day's outing and share some unforgettable moments with friends or family.

Cyprus Investing - The Safe Purchase Guide
Anyone who has ever tried to set about looking into buying a Cyprus holiday villa whether it be as an investment or just owning your own holiday home, you will know that it is a bit of a daunting task. Many people tend to rush into things and just don't take the necessary time to look into buying a holiday home in Cyprus properly.
The normal process that people tend to follow is whereby lining up several properties to be visited with one or different estate agents. Some people will try to do everything on their own but the underlying fact is that if you haven't carried out the necessary research beforehand, you could be in for an unpleasant surprise.
A popular property investment that took off in Spain is the purchase of property "off plan" and had been very successful there until many property developers went bankrupt and all of the investors stood to loose all of their money. This has not happened in Cyprus jet but even so their is always some risk involved when you are offered a bargain.
In fact Cyprus has really exploded when it comes to the new property sector and I can assure you that things are done properly in Cyprus. The first fact that I can reveal right now is that your property will be worth a lot more on completion than what you initially agreed to while paying your deposit. The same rule still applies though that you need to check out everything that you are going to need to know before you pay your deposit.
When it comes to developers in Cyprus you need to have a look around and not just base your findings on one offer. You may think you are getting a bargain, but you may care to have a look at areas closer to the sea which may be even better.
The great thing about Cyprus is that you can pick up some really cheap flights to get out there and find your investment home. You may remember that I said that you will need to do your research and I can only make one recommendation and that is the Cyprus informer blog which is full of factual information on all aspects of living in Cyprus.

North Cyprus Vacation Properties

North Cyprus vacation properties offer you the vacation of your dreams. Whether you dream of spending a week nestled in the side of an olive tree covered mountainside exploring the quaint villages or a week soaking up the sun with the clear, crisp waters of the Mediterranean lapping at your toes, North Cyprus vacation properties can provide just what you need. North Cyprus has everything for an exciting adventure - from ancient ruins and castles to explore to some of nature's finest offerings. Whether you like to hike in the mountains, swim in the seas, or get acquainted with the culture of this magnificent island, there are North Cyprus vacation properties to meet your needs.
Perhaps you are dreaming of a romantic getaway in a quaint little cottage designed for privacy, or maybe a hotel or condo located centrally to the excitement of the beaches, or perhaps even experiencing the life of a prince or princess in one of the ancient castles. No matter what your fantasy vacation, North Cyprus vacation properties have it all. In North Cyprus, you can enjoy a hike in the mountains one day and a swim in the sea the next. There is so much of nature's beauty to explore and enjoy, once you arrive, you will never want to leave. A perfect mixture of the old and the new, you can learn how ancient civilizations lived while enjoying the modern comforts you are accustomed to.
The island of Cyprus has been a stepping-stone between the eastern and western worlds for over 9000 years. Filled with exciting ancient ruins just waiting to be explored, North Cyprus is a virtual paradise for the explorer and history buff. Nature lovers are just as excited once they get a look at the flowers and wildlife, many of can only be found on the island and some that are on the endangered list that can be seen while hiking the beautiful mountainsides. Fresh olives and oranges surround you with aromatic fragrances wherever you go. If you get tired of exploring, you can take a break and relax in the cool, refreshing waters of the Mediterranean.