Corsica News

VAT Cut In Corsican Restaurants

Wed, 01 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Dining in Corsica should be cheaper from today following a cut in VAT for restaurants and cafes from 19.6% to 5.5% - making your holiday money go a little further. The French government has made the move to try to entice more Britons to holiday in France this summer. Although restaurants do not have to pass on the savings to customers, it is believed the majority will to stay competitive and already some restaurant chains have reduced prices by as much as 20%.

The tax applies to food but not to alcohol. France has campaigned for seven years to get the go-ahead from European Union partners to lower value-added tax for restaurants and cafes. It is anticipated that the reduction will cost the French state 2.38 billion euros a year but restaurant owners are set to employ around 40,000 more people.

New Holiday Villa In Corsica

Thu, 25 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Specialist tour operator Corsican Places is delighted to have a popular family villa back on sale this summer. Villa les Oliviers has not been available through the operator for the last couple of years but makes a welcome return this year and is now available online at http://www.corsica.co.uk/Accommodation/19000234/50914/Villa-Les-Oliviers.aspx

Villa les Oliviers is a modern villa near to the popular village of Calenzana, in northern Corsica. Les Oliviers is set in ample grounds with a lawned area and plenty of space for the children to play and a large freeform pool. Availability is limited for the rest of this season so we would recommend booking as soon as possible.

Popping corks in Corsica

Mike Martin - simonseeks.com — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

When you discover that Corsica was once owned and run by us Brits it’s a bit like discovering that we once owned Bordeaux. If we knew then how good the wine was going to be, why on earth did we give it up? No amount of guns or cannons should have put us off - we should have defended it to the death back in 1796.

Seriously though, although Corsica is nowhere near as famous as France’s great wine-producing regions like Bordeaux, Burgundy or Champagne, its burgeoning industry is having quite an impact on us Brits. Almost all of the main supermarket chains now stock at least one Corsican wine, and a trip to the island quickly explains why. Put bluntly, it’s distinctive, it’s made with real love and care, and it’s cheap.

It’s an unlikely place for a wine industry, as the island is the most mountainous in the Mediterranean and covers just 8720sq km. Incidentally, the island’s most famous native was Napoleon Bonaparte, a man who knew a thing or two about wine – he forced his troops to salute every time he marched past a vineyard.

He was born in Ajaccio, the island’s capital and also the heart of the wine-growing region. In fact, most of the island’s wine is produced on the west and north side, the east being too dry and desert-like. For years Corsica produced pretty ordinary vin de table, but now has invested heavily in the industry and, interestingly, has kept a lot of old obscure grape varieties, which it blends with more well-known ones like Merlot and Chardonnay. The results are impressive, modern-tasting wines that suit all palates and wallets.

We have the good old EU to thank for Corsica’s wine now, as back in 1980 it favoured uprooting vines that were over-producing – the infamous wine lake – and gave money to invest in more quality vines. The total area dropped to 22,500 acres, but the quality improved.

The undistinguished Grenache and Cinsault grape were replaced with Viognier, Pinot Noir and Sauvignon, but the local wine-makers, now armed with degrees and the knowledge of what people actually wanted to drink, blended them. Nielluccio for example is an old grape, probably Italian in origin, which produces a deep red wine with good structure. It’s grown on the chalky soils of the north of the Island. Blended with the trendy Merlot, it is one of Somerfield’s best-sellers, and at just £6 a bottle represents good value.

Similarly, Vermentino performs best in the north, and is added to Chardonnay to produce an interesting wine. The usually bland Chardonnay grape is given a golden, honey-tinted gloss, which gives it far more character. Again it is available in Somerfield. The Terra Vecchia vineyard welcomes visitors and is well worth a visit, producing outstanding examples of these grape varieties. They are very friendly, and are happy to give you a taste and discuss their wine. Try the 2005 vintages: the Chardonnay/vermentino is outstanding.

Another vineyard well worth visiting is Clos de Bernardi, for two reasons – the great, juicy reds and a lively discussion. Ask the staff about the 2000 rule, which stated that the reds must be 95% Nielluccio, and the whites 100% Vermentino – it’s sure to kick off a robust argument. Up until that point their wines could be blended, so they now feel a tad restricted.

Back in Ajaccio, Domain Peraldi, which overlooks the bay, is one of the best producers, especially of the unusual Sciacarello grape. This is a really old Corsican grape that appears to have been grown there for centuries, and makes a very spicy red that is also a tad heavy on the alcohol. You can always try the rosé instead, which has two advantages – it can be chilled, perfect for a hot day, and it’s a revelation. The rosés on any wine list are usually the last to get tasted, if at all, but rosé is growing in popularity all the time, and this under-rated wine is something Corsica does extremely well.

If you have a car and fancy some exploring, the northern tip of Corsica, Cap Corse, is well worth a trip. Here they make sweet wines from the Vermentino and Muscat grapes. Look for the label ‘Coteaux du Cap Corse’. Antoine Arena’s vineyard is worth seeking out for its luscious Muscat, and Clos Nicrosi, at Rogliano (follow the D80 north from Bastia to Cap Corse, and at the top you will pass through the village), produces one of Corsica's finest white wines. Demand far outstrips supply, so it is very sought after. Domaine de Gioelli, also at Rogliano, produces an unusual sweet red wine called Rapu.

Or, of course, you can also stay in the area. In the heart of the village Patrimonio you will find Villa Puccinasca. Set in an elevated position, with wonderful views over the village and surrounding countryside from the front terrace and garden, it has a large dining terrace with seating. From here the panorama is superb and best appreciated with a glass of the local rosé as the sun sets behind the mountains before you stroll down for a meal in one of the restaurants in Patrimonio.

Corsica has come an awfully long way in wine production in the last 30 years. It was almost ready to be abandoned by France, but then came the split with Algeria, and hundreds of trained wine-makers left to settle on the island. It’s a craggy, rocky place with, it claims, dozens of microclimates, but despite all the barriers it has started to produce wines that have an appeal well beyond the locals. It’s a great holiday destination, and you might just find some wines that will surprise you. As an old Tuscan proverb goes: “one glass of Corsican wine and I climb Stromboli.” And remember to shake the last drops of wine in your glass to the ground, as an offering to the gods.

Getting there
Corsican Places offers holiday packages including direct charter flights from London Gatwick or Manchester. These operate on a Sunday from May until October. For 2009, clients can also choose to make accommodation-only or flight-only bookings with the tour operator.
Easyjet fly to Ajaccio and Bastia.

New Romantic Villa for Two

Thu, 18 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Couples looking for a truly romantic break can rent a fantastic new luxurious villa near Calvi in Corsica. Casa Acciani is a contemporary villa with a private pool which has recently been built to the highest standard and has just become available for holiday rental through specialist tour operator Corsican Places.

The villa oozes serenity and sophistication and the neutral décor makes the most of the space, giving the property an almost “zen” like atmosphere. Inside there is plenty of space for two with an open plan living and dining area, a well-equipped kitchen, main bedroom with two double beds pushed together and a second bedroom area with twin beds. The bedroom areas are separated from the living area by a curtain so the villa is recommended as a holiday property for two – perfect for honeymoons, anniversaries and other special occasions.

Outside the sense of space continues with a small pool and wooden terrace with breathtaking views of the sea and Revellata Peninsular beyond. An exceptional property that is expected to prove very popular with couples. Read more

Viva La Villa

Sam Wylie-Harris - Players Magazine — Fri, 12 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Cala di Mare, Corsica
Exclusive, romantic and classy, Corsica’s beautiful beaches and mountain scenery have made this French island hideaway a star attraction with honeymooners and the jet set.
The Cala di Mare is built into the rock above the spectacular rugged headlands of the Calvi coast. Set over two levels, the four bedrooms all have en-suite facilities, DVD players and flatscreen TVs. The master bedroom is a hideaway in its own right with a private terrace and hammam sauna. Full-length windows run across the living room and make the most of the stunning view and sunsets.
Outdoors, guests can relax on a sun lounger with a chilled glass of wine and watch the sea merge with the waters of the infinity pool. Other amenities include a fitness room, sauna, state-of-the-art kitchen and top of the range barbecue. If you can tear yourself away, the restaurants of Calvi are just a short walk, and the chic boutiques of L’lle Rousse and Bastia a quick drive away.
Please note, due to horizontal railings and some unguarded drops, this villa is not suitable for young children.
Price: Corsican Places offers seven nights accommodation-only from approx £3,044.
For more information visit www.corsica.co.uk or call 0845 330 2113.

Strength of Pound Makes Corsica Even More Appealing

Thu, 11 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The pound has increased in strength against the euro in the past couple of weeks and is now higher than at any point this year, meaning your money will go further when on holiday in Corsica.

The pound was worth 1.1758 euros earlier today and when trading closed yesterday it was worth 1.1672. Recent negotiations with property owners also mean many holidays have been reduced in price with savings of over £200 – flight inclusive packages now start from £299 per person. For details see our special offers.

easyJet launches third Manchester aircraft

Wed, 03 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

EasyJet has launched its third aircraft at Manchester airport servicing four new routes including Bastia in Corsica. Due to be launched in August, these flights were brought forward due to high demand giving passengers more choice of low cost flights this summer.

Flights can be booked directly with EasyJet whilst self-catering villas, apartments and hotels can be booked on an accommodation-only basis with specialist tour operator Corsican Places. Corsican Places also offer flight-inclusive packages as well as car-hire.

Live like a Local in the Med

Annabelle Thorpe - The Observer — Sun, 24 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Calvi, Corsica
Dominated by an impressive medieval citadel, Calvi is one of Corsica's biggest tourist draws: its four-mile beach has excellent facilities - watersports, cafes and lifeguards. Most of the action in town is centred around Quai Landry, a beachside walkway that connects the port to the marina and is lined with restaurants and bars - U Calellu is one of the best for fresh fish. There are no buses on Corsica, but to explore further afield take the coastal train to L'Ile Rousse. The train glides past (and stops at) stunning beaches - although the spectacular countryside makes the trip worthwhile just for the journey itself.
For something uniquely Corsican, head to Calvi's Cathédrale Saint Jean-Baptiste, where there are weekly concerts of chansons polyphoniques, in which performers sing two different notes at the same time. If you need a drink to recover, the place to head for cocktails is Chez Tao, a Calvi institution which combines a sleek eaterie with a bar that keeps the chilled-out music going till early morning. If you want to continue partying, there are shuttle buses to the city's two best clubs, Acapulco and La Camargue.
Stay: Apartment Carla is tucked away in the citadel walls. It's a sleek, two-bedroom apartment with blistering views across the Med. From £514pp per week, including flights and transfers (based on four sharing) through Corsican Places (0845 330 2113; corsicanplaces.co.uk).

Corsica Holidays from £299

Thu, 21 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Mediterranean island of Corsica is traditionally thought of as an exclusive and possibly fairly expensive holiday destination but this is no longer true. It remains unspoilt and uncommercialised but it is now affordable for many families. Specialist tour operator has some great deals departing this summer including 7 nights in a 4-bedroom villa with private pool for £299 per person including flights and transfers, based on 9 sharing departing on 31st May. This represents a saving of £246 per person.

Smaller parties can also take advantage of great deals with £299 packages available for apartments based on 2, 3 or 4 sharing. For more details of these and other special offers visit www.corsica.co.uk/Docs/Special-Offers

Calvi Jazz Festival Acts Announced

Wed, 13 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The programme for the prestigious Calvi Jazz Festival has been announced and includes diverse acts such as a James Brown tribute, James Coltrane tribute, the Massalia New Orleans Jazz Band and a night of Cuban bands.

The festival will be held between 23rd and 28th June in the historic town of Calvi, La Balagne on the French island of Corsica. In addition to evening concerts, for which tickets must be purchased, there will be free afternoon and late night jamming sessions and for the whole week there is a fantastic atmosphere on the streets of Calvi.

This events attracts performers as well as audiences from across the world. Flights and accommodation are still available through Corsican Places but are selling fast. For more information visit http://www.calvi-jazz-festival.com

Explore Corsica with Tailor Made Touring Holidays

Press Office - Corsican Places — Wed, 06 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Specialist tour operator Corsican Places highlights its tailor-made touring holidays as the best way to see the many different aspects of Corsica this spring. The roads are much quieter before the peak summer holiday season and the mountain scenery is awash with colourful spring flowers and blossoming maquis.
The company has a number of suggested itineraries in its brochure and online although the experienced reservations team is happy to put together a tailor-made tour to suit exactly what a holidaymaker is looking for. The most popular tour is Haute Corse taking in the best of the north of the island including Calvi, the mountainous interior and the stunning west coast.
An example Haute Corse tour: on arrival at Calvi Airport collect a hire car for the short drive to the 2* Hotel Cyrnéa, located on the outskirts of Calvi. Spend three nights in Calvi exploring the historic citadel, the glamorous marina and relaxing on the six kilometres of sandy beach. There is also time to spend a day driving to the nearby mountain villages of the Balagne to experience traditional Corsican culture and take in the captivating panoramic views. On the fourth day drive through the mountainous interior of Corsica to the spiritual capital of the island, Corté and spend a night at the 3* Hotel Arena, a family-run hotel perfectly situated next to the Restonica river. Whilst in Corté take advantage of the area’s fantastic opportunities for outdoor pursuits or explore the picturesque town with its narrow cobbled streets and university buildings.
The following day drive through the mountains to Piana on the west coast and spend a night at the 4* Hotel Capo Rosso with excellent views of this dramatic stretch of coastline. On the final day return to Calvi for one last night. This seven-night tour costs £795 per person departing on 7th June and includes return flights from Gatwick to Calvi, car hire and 7 nights twin accommodation with six nights on bed and breakfast basis and one night on half board.
Corsican Places has been welcoming holidaymakers to the beautiful Mediterranean island of Corsica for 22 years and the company’s staff has first hand knowledge of the destination to advise clients on the best places to stay and suggestions for tours for those looking to explore this unique destination.
Call Corsican Places Reservations Department on 0845 330 2113 or visit www.corsica.co.uk

Corsica Attracting More Visitors

Wed, 22 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The number of passengers travelling through the four main commercial airports in Corsica has increased gradually in recent years and in 2008 it surpassed 2.5 million. The figures vary greatly at different times of year, with air traffic increasing significantly during the summer months, indicating the island’s popularity as a holiday destination.

Although the majority of traffic is from mainland France, there are now a number of low cost flights to the UK as well as scheduled and charter services. The busiest airport on the island is Ajaccio which in 2008 handled just over a million passengers.

Below are the figures for the past three years, in millions (source www.aeroport.fr)

	2008	2007	2006
Calvi	0.28	0.27	0.27
Figari	0.37	0.34	0.30
Bastia	0.93	0.86	0.82
Ajaccio	1.07	1.03	0.98
Total	2.65	2.5	2.37

Corsican Wine Tasting

Wed, 15 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A Corsican Wine Tasting is being held in London by CIVC, the Corsican trade association for the promotion of the wine-growing sector, in conjunction with the French Trade Commission. The event will be held at La Trouvaille Restaurant (W1) on 11th May 2009 between 10am and 9pm and is open to potential distributors and partners in the UK and Ireland.

Corsica has around 7,000 hectares of land devoted to wine production and each year the island produces about 40 million litres of wine. There are three main grape varieties on Corsica: ciaccarellu, niellucciu and vermentinu which give the wine from different regions of the island distinctive flavours. Wines presented at the event include Domaine Comte Abbatucci, Domaine Vaccelli, Clos Canarelli, Domaine Vecchio, Domaine Santini, Domaine Pero Longo and Clos Culombu.

For further information, or to register to attend the event, contact: Kate Ambler on 0207 235 5330 or email kate.ambler@ubifrance.fr

Easter In Corsica

Thu, 09 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Easter is a very important time in Corsica with processions and religious events held all across the island. One of the most famous events is La Passion, held during Holy Week it is a major Corsican-language spectacle which retraces the Passion of Christ. A Granitola is a fascinating procession which takes place on Good Friday in Calvi - the brothers of Saint Antoine and Erasmus march in procession through the town to the citadel. Possibly the most famous of all Corsican Good Friday processions is U Catenacciu in Sartene. In Bonifacio the Procession of the five Orders is an unforgettable sight to witness: members of five Orders pass through the town and meet up at the parish church carrying relics and statues on Baroque-style shrines lit with torches and lanterns. Traditional chants and pagan rituals which accompany the procession add to the mysterious atmosphere.

Following lent, food also plays a major part in celebrations and there are a number of culinary fairs at this time. During Easter weekend itself the village of Piedicroce, situated between Corte and the Costa Verde, holds a fair for local farm produce A Merendella in Castagniccia. At the end of April the Journee du Brocciu in Piana is a popular event celebrating Corscia’s world-famous cheese.

EasyJet Flights to Start in May

Thu, 26 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

EasyJet has brought forward its expansion at Manchester airport which was scheduled for August. The weekly flights from Manchester to Bastia (Corsica) will now commence at the end of May, meaning holidaymakers can take full advantage of the low cost flights over the popular summer season.

Corsica - a beach lover's dream

Press Office - Corsican Places — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Corsica captures the hearts of visitors each year with its 1000km stretch of stunning coastline and crystal clear waters. Boasting just fewer than 200 beaches, there is a great variety from deserted beaches and hidden coves - perfect for couples; shaded and gently-shelving beaches - ideal for children; as well as magnificent bays – aptly suited for watersports.

The UK’s leading tour operator and specialist, Corsican Places, offers a wide selection of accommodation and flights options across the island and product manager Nicola Ball, presents her choice of the top four beaches not to be missed, as well as an example of current Half Term offers:

Palombaggia – L’Extrême Sud:
Arguably the most famous on the island, the beach at Palombaggia is one of Corsica's finest with its exquisite blend of fine white sand guarded by huge red granite rocks, fronted with gorgeous blue seas and lined with beautiful pine trees. Corsican Places properties in the area include Résidence I Luminelli - a collection of two-bedroom mini villas with a shared pool, just 2kms from Palombaggia beach and 10 minutes drive from the town of Porto Vecchio.

Calvi – La Balagne:
Calvi’s beach is a sweeping bay of white sand fringed by woods of maritime pines, which are patrolled by lifeguards in summer. Its gently shelving gradient makes it perfect for all ages, including toddlers. There is an array of restaurants and cafés nearby - some of which serve directly onto the beach, as well as a diverse range of watersport activities for the more energetic.
Corsican Places offers Maisons Bervily - six attractive terraced houses and two apartments with a shared pool, which are ideal for a family holiday. A path from the gardens of these properties leads down to Calvi and its beach in approximately five minutes.

Lumio – La Balagne:
The beach at Lumio, Arinella Plage, is small and personal and offers views of Calvi Citadel across the bay. There is a small restaurant serving excellent seafood on tables that spill out onto the coarse sand. Sheltered between rocky headlands there are opportunities to swim, paddle or snorkel. Corsican Places offers Villa Ogliastrelli - a three-bedroom villa set on the hillside below the pretty village of Lumio. This spacious single storey villa has large enclosed gardens, ideal for young children, and is only 2kms away from this beach.

Désert des Agriates – Plage de Lodo & Plage de Saleccia:
Plage de Lodo is one of the most isolated beaches of the Désert des Agriates, a landscape of wild maquis and rocky cliffs. Characterised by white sand and clear, turquoise water, access is either by foot from the town of St Florent (approx 1 ½ hr walk) or by boat, from U Saleccia.
Plage de Saleccia is a further hour's walk along the coast of the desert and is often less crowded, but equally as stunning. This beach is accessed via a 12km track, which is only suitable for 4x4 vehicles, mountain bikes or quad bikes - all of which are available to hire in St Florent. Corsican Places offers L'Ancre Bleue, St Florent - a six-bedroom ‘Premium Collection’ villa, perched on the Fromentica hillside with views over the Gulf of St Florent.

Half Term Offer:
Corsican Places is offering 7-nights over the May half term at L’Ancre Bleue for £879 per person. This price is based on 6 sharing and is valid for departures on 24 May, representing a saving of £219 per person from brochure price. Return flights from London Gatwick, car hire, an extra cleaning service midweek and a Premium welcome hamper are also included.
Corsican Places also offers accommodation-only bookings to complement the increase in low cost flights to the island. Easyjet flights are available from London Gatwick, Bristol and Manchester.

New Properties to the 2009 collection

Press Office - Corsican Places — Tue, 17 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

With over twenty years of operation, Corsican Places continues to offer the widest range of accommodation in Corsica to the UK holiday market, much of which is exclusive to its programme. There are over 100 hand-picked properties, with additional choice on the Corsican Places’ website www.corsica.co.uk

Corsican Places wishes to highlight again, properties, which are new additions for 2009 (8 in total). These include:

Villa Luiggi – modernist villa, Davia, La Balagne
This three-bedroom villa - complete with landscaped gardens, private pool and state of the art kitchen - is a design novelty for Corsica and with glass walls is built to optimize the panoramic views of the nearby L’Ile Rousse.
Corsican Places is offering 7 nights at Villa Luiggi for £579 per person. This price is based on 6 sharing and is valid for departures on 17 May, resulting in a saving of £88 per person from brochure price. Return flights from London Gatwick, car hire and all taxes are included in the price.

Villa Raffi – hillside villa, Monticello, La Balagne
With an enviable hillside location and actually built into the maquis-covered rockface, Villa Raffi offers seclusion, yet is only a short drive to the coast. The interior offers a contemporary feel, with views across the hillside to the sea at L’IIe Rousse.
Corsican Places is offering 7 nights at Villa Raffi for £473 per person. This price is based on 6 sharing and is valid for departures on 17 May, resulting in a saving of £50 per person from brochure price. Return flights from London Gatwick, car hire and all taxes are included in the price.

Sognu di Rena – beachside residence, Moriani Plage, Costa Verde
Sognu di Rena is a brand new holiday development set on the beach along the beautiful Costa Verde. These stylish, yet simple apartments share an adult’s and children’s swimming pool, and the village of Moriani Plage, with its shops, cafés and restaurants, is just a pleasant stroll away along the beach.
Corsican Places offers 7 nights at Sognu di Rena for £449 per person. This price is based on two sharing a one-bedroom apartment and is valid for departures on 17 May, resulting in a saving of £50 per person from brochure price. Return flights from London Gatwick, car hire and all taxes are included in the price.

As expected from Corsican Places, its brochure presents an appealing and diverse range of self-catering accommodation, which includes premium villas with private pools, rural cottages, contemporary apartments and family residences. Hotel options range from the simple 2* family auberge, to the best in Corsica – 4* luxe.
For more information, to request a brochure, or to make a booking, please call Corsican Places Reservations Dept on 0845 330 2113 or visit www.corsica.co.uk

A Taste of Corsica at the International Food & Drink Event in London

Wed, 04 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Visitors to the International Food & Drink Event, held at ExCel in London between 15th and 18th March 2009, will be able to sample the unique flavours of Corsica. The Corsican trade association (Syndicat des Professionnels de la Transformation Agro-alimentaire de Corse) has a stand to showcase the island’s best produce.

The Corsica (SPTAC) stand can be found at N5030/3 in the Walk the World section of IFE 2009 and the exhibitors will be looking for distributors in the UK and Ireland. Exhibitors on the stand include:

Biscuiteries d’Afa – typically Corsican biscuits made from chestnut flour and almonds. (www.biscuiterie-afa.com)
Brasserie Pietra: A family-run brewery near Bastia making traditional beers from chestnuts or wild herbs which are available in Waitrose. (www.brasseriepietra.com)
Corsica Gastronomia produces a wide range of Corsican specialities including nougat, terrines, jam and ready meals. (www.corsicagastronomia.com)
Fromagerie Ottavi is a family-owned company which has been producing rich cheeses, including goat’s milk and ewe’s milk cheeses, since 1948.
Fromagerie Pierucci supports around 60 producers of traditional Corsican cheeses. (www.fromage-pierucci.com)

For further information on the trade show and to register for tickets go to: www.ife.co.uk

Source: UBIFRANCE

Corsican Places included in 50 Bargain Villas feature

Sean Newsom - The Sunday Times — Sun, 01 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A Chjova, Calvi, Corsica
£695, sleeps 4
This small apartment doesn't have a garden, and there's only one balcony, but who cares when it's air-conditioned and set in the heart of the pretty harbour town of Calvi? Everything is on your doorstep - restaurants, cobbled streets, markets and beaches - and it's just a short drive away from the wild, mountainous Corsican interior. 0845 330 2059, corsica.co.uk ; fly to Bastia, 90 minutes away, with EasyJet or Thomson Airways

Rough Guides Names Granitola Festival As Top Tip For 2009

Thu, 15 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Rough Guides has selected what it considers to be the best travel experiences in 2009 and the Granitola Festival in Casamaccioli, Corsica is amongst the top nine worldwide events. A Cerca et a Granitola is celebrated in small villages across the island over Easter.

During the festival a procession of dozens of hooded monks from four local monasteries make their way through the villages on Good Friday chanting, singing and spiralling through the streets. It truly is an incredible sight to witness.

Casamaccioli is in central Corsica close to the historic town of Corté.

Corsican Places included in 100 Best Holidays Feature

Stephen Bleach - The Sunday Times — Sun, 11 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

39 Go modern in Corsica
Villas, ££££
The Corsicans are a conservative bunch, which is why Villa Luiggi, a modernist glass cube that would gladden Le Corbusier’s heart, has caused a bit of a stir locally — they’ve even made a TV programme about it. Still, all but die-hard traditionalists agree it’s a triumph, with slick looks and a great pool, and those windows make the most of the huge views across to L’Ile Rousse. Sleeping six, it costs £617pp/£1,218pp, including flights and car hire, with Corsican Places (0845 330 2113, corsica.co.uk ).

New EasyJet flights to Corsica

Wed, 07 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

easyJet has added two new flights to Bastia in Corsica: a new service from Bristol will commence in May whilst a Manchester service starts on 9th August.

The new regional departures make the island more accessible for clients in the south west and north west and will more than double the airline’s capacity to Corsica compared with last year. Flight seats can be booked directly with easyJet, with one-way fares available from £22.99 per person from Bristol and £23.07 from Manchester, including taxes and charges. The routes add to the airline’s other services to Corsica: Gatwick to Bastia and Gatwick-Ajaccio.

To enable holidaymakers to take advantage of these cheap flights to Corsica, specialist tour operator Corsican Places is offering self-catering properties and hotels on an accommodation-only basis. The company offers the widest choice of over 100 properties across the island including villas with pools, citadel apartments, family-friendly residences and character hotels.

Hotel prices start from £245 per person based on 7 nights bed & breakfast at either Hotel Cyrnea, Calvi or Hotel de la Corniche, near Miomo, both 2 star. Apartments start from £459 (£229.50 per person) based on 7 nights and two sharing (Apartment A Moresca in Algajola & 1 bed Sognu di Rena in Moriani Plage). Accommodation-only bookings through Corsican Places also include a welcome pack, all bed linen and towels. Car-hire can also be booked through the operator. See more information on accommodation-only.

Corsica Raid Adventure

Wed, 10 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The 15th Corsica Raid Adventure will take place between 30th May and 3rd June 2009, timed to make the most of the island’s idyllic conditions for outdoor pursuits.

The event takes place across the island and is composed of a number of races held over 4½ days which range from 1 hour to all day across various disciplines including mountain biking, canyoning and orienteering. However, the race itinerary is kept a secret and only revealed on the first day.

Teams consist of two racers but a third member provides back up with a vehicle and can also compete with the wild card system they operate. There are three tiers of registration prices for those made before 31st December, those made before the end of March and after this time. For more details visit http://www.corsicaraid.com/us/pages/home.html

Corsican Places highlights its ‘Family Collection’ for 2009

Press Office - Corsican Places — Tue, 02 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

A designated ‘Family Collection’ of properties is a new addition for 2009 for specialist travel company Corsican Places.
By its very nature Corsica is a low-stress family destination. Approximately just a two-hour flight from the UK, this Mediterranean island offers a comfortable climate and wealth of unspoilt and gently shelving beaches.

Family-friendly properties with that little bit extra have resulted in the tour operator compiling its own ‘Family Collection’, which is certain to please parents and children alike.
Well-appointed with a minimum of a swimming pool, television with DVD player and a microwave, the selected properties are also equipped with buckets and spades, beach umbrella and a cool box for picnics on the beach.

There are 17 ‘Family Collection’ properties within the Corsican Places’ portfolio.
These include the three-bedroom Villa Ogliastrelli in La Balagne, in the North of the island.
Set on the hillside below the pretty village of Lumio, this spacious single-story villa has large, enclosed gardens, table tennis and a barbeque. Arinella Plage, just a short drive downhill, offers a small, sandy beach, as well as rocky coves, which are particularly suitable for snorkelling.
An alternate option from Corsican Places includes Residence I Luminelli, two-bedroom mini-villas with an enclosed pool in the Porto Vecchio region. Situated just a short drive from some of the best beaches in Corsica (including Palombaggia), these properties are especially well suited to families with young children.

Nicola Ball, Corsican Places product manager comments:
“The wide variety of scenery, from deserted beaches to mountain villages and forests, makes Corsica appealing to all ages. On a drive or train ride up to the mountains you will probably meet wild cows, sheep, goats and possibly even wild boar - a source of great excitement for children and adults alike.”

A week at Residence I Luminelli starts from £518 per person, based on four sharing.
This price includes return flights from London Gatwick, car hire and a welcome hamper.
Infant (0 - 2 years) Prices of £40 and Child (2 to 12 years) Discounts of up to 15% are available.
Please contact Corsican Places for more information.

Foldable highchairs and travel cots (excluding cot linen) are provided free of charge in Corsican Places self-catering properties. Complimentary baby and child car or booster seats (minimum age 6 months) can also be fitted into the hire cars.

The Family Collection category is highlighted online only. For more information please visit Corsican Places www.corsica.co.uk

Corsica: The Best Bond Location

Thu, 06 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Sir Roger Moore has named Corsica as his favourite Bond location in an interview to celebrate the launch of the new James Bond film Quantum of Solace featuring Daniel Craig.

During his interview with Emma Forrest for Metro World News, the former 007 was asked which of the many exotic Bond locations was his favourite, his response was: “It has to be Corsica. It’s such a beautiful island with terrific hotels and the most gorgeous seafood. In a word, it’s idyllic.”

Sir Roger Moore was on location on Corsica whilst filming The Spy Who Loved Me which also featured other glamorous locations including the Bahamas but it was Corsica that captured his heart.

To read the full interview visit http://www.metronews.ca

Sebastien Loeb Wins Corsican Rally

Wed, 22 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Sebastien Loeb is a step closer to securing the 2008 World Rally Drivers’ Championship after his fourth consecutive win in Corsica. The Citroen driver now has a 14-point lead over Mikko Hirvonen of Finland and is tipped to secure this year’s title.

The win in Corsica in front of home fans was Loeb’s tenth this season and 46th of his career, completing a clean sweep of wins on asphalt this year following successes in Spain, Germany and Monte Carlo.

Loeb was untouchable, winning 14 of the 16 stages held near the island’s capital Ajaccio. He is now looking forward to the final two stages in Japan and Great Britain but says he will be driving for points rather than another victory.

Could This Be The Final Tour de Corse?

Wed, 22 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Corsica’s famous rally has an uncertain future; it is rumoured to be opting out of the World Rally Championship after changes to the schedule and the introduction of a new rotation system aimed at taking the sport to new audiences worldwide. The Tour de Corse is being dropped from the programme in 2009 along with New Zealand, Monte Carlo and Sweden. New events will be held in Ireland and Poland, whilst Norway, Cyprus and Australia also return to the series in 2009.

The Tour de Corse is an alpine-style tarmac rally held near the island’s capital Ajaccio. It is a fantastic spectacle with winding mountain roads, although it is much safer than in previous years. Due to smaller crowds than many of the other World Rally Championship events and the close proximity to the capital, the Tour de Corse is one of the best for spectators. This year’s rally runs from 10th – 12th October 2008.

Corsican Places launches its 2009 Collection

Press Office - Corsican Places — Mon, 13 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Corsican Places launches its 2009 brochure this week, confirming its status as the leading Corsican specialist. With over twenty years of operation, Corsican Places continues to offer the widest range of accommodation to the UK holiday market, much of which is exclusive to its programme.

The tour operator’s highlights for 2009 include:

Continued variety of Accommodation choice

As expected from Corsican Places, there is an appealing and diverse range of self-catering accommodation on offer, which includes premium villas with private pools, rural cottages, contemporary apartments and family residences.

Hotel options range from the simple 2* family auberge, to the best in Corsica – 4* luxe.
There are over 100 hand-picked property choices, with additional choice on the Corsican Places’ website www.corsica.co.uk

New Property additions

New additions to the property portfolio include Apartment Marina Stella - a top floor apartment on a brand new and high quality residence with pool in the heart of Calvi. Decorated in a contemporary, nautical style, Marina Stella offers roof top views through the pines towards the sea or mountains, with glimpses of Calvi Citadel. Also new for 2009, is Villa Raffi in Monticello, near I’Ile Rousse.

Built into the rockface, this modern house boasts an enviable hillside location with sea views.

Increased Northern Corsica stronghold

Although covering most of the island, Corsican Places’ stronghold remains the North, with a noted rise in St Florent properties and self-catering accommodation offering increased capacity (due to the acquisition of Voyages Ilena in Autumn 2007).

For 2009, Corsican Places has also given Central Corsica, the Gulf de Porto and Central Mountains, more prominence - a wild landscape, which it describes as untamed and raw.

New Property Categorisation: Premium Collection and Family Collection

New for 2009, Corsican Places has introduced criteria to categorise the level of comfort across its self-catering properties - the pinnacle being its designated Premium Collection. With prime locations, generous grounds and superior facilities, these properties boast a certain ‘je ne sais quoi’. Corsican Places has also added a Family Collection categorisation onto its website, whereby selected villas or residences not only have a swimming pool, DVD player and microwave, but also come complete with family-friendly extras, such as buckets and spades, beach umbrellas and picnic cool boxes.

Increased Twin Centre options with Sardinia

The recent launch of sister company Sardinian Places has increased the scope of the twin-centre Corsica and Sardinia holidays that Corsican Places is able to offer.

The two islands are only 11km apart across the Bonifacio Straits, and Corsican Places suggests that a week in northern or central Sardinia should ideally precede a week in central or southern Corsica.

Choice of Flight Departures and NEW Accommodation or Flight-only options
Corsican Places offers holiday packages including direct charter flights from London Gatwick, Manchester, Birmingham or Edinburgh. These operate on a Sunday from May until October.

For 2009, clients can also choose to make accommodation-only or flight-only bookings with the tour operator.

Next season (09), a 7-night holiday with Corsican Places starts from £399 per person.
This price is based on self-catering accommodation at Apartment A Chjova in Calvi Town, based on four sharing, and includes return flights from London Gatwick, airport transfers, taxes and a welcome hamper.

Corsican Places is offering a number of Early Booking Offers, valid for 2009 holidays booked by 30 November 2008. These include per person discounts at selected properties, free car hire upgrades and No Manchester flight supplements.

To request a copy of the new brochure or for more information, please call Corsican Places reservations on 0845 330 2113.

AITO adopts new green travel ratings

Oliver Smith - Telegraph.co.uk — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The Association of Independent Tour Operators (AITO) has revised its Responsible Tourism Star classification system.

AITO, which encourages a commitment to green travel among its members, has altered the number of points awarded to certain areas such as destination activities and carbon reduction.

Previously, its ratings system ranged from one to three stars. The revamped questionnaire will rate eco-friendly travel operators from one to five stars.

"We hope that through the increased emphasis on destination activities, members will be encouraged to work more closely with local communities," said Roger Diski, founder of Rainbow Tours and the Chairman of AITO's Responsible Tourism committee.

An AITO spokesman said that the new classifications would push a number of tours operators down from the top rating, which he hoped would encourage them to continue improving their green credentials.

A spokeswoman for charity Tourism Concern, which campaigns against irresponsible tourism, said that the changes were "much-needed" and encouraging, but called for greater transparency.

"We would like to see the results," she added. "Corporate checklists are rarely sufficient – they need to be robustly policed by third parties."

"Unless the actual impact is verified, customers really have no idea what they are buying into."

Travel companies must now re-apply for AITO membership to receive their new rating.

So far seven operators have been awarded the new five star rating: Corsican Places, Explore, Himalayan Kingdoms, Journey Latin America, KE Adventure Travel, Serenity Holidays and Tribes Travel.

Companies must achieve a minimum of one star to gain AITO membership.

XL Leisure Group

Press Office - Corsican Places — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Corsican Places would like to extend its sympathies to holidaymakers who were booked to travel with XL Leisure Group, which announced that it would cease trading last Friday (12 September). XL going into administration does not affect clients travelling with Corsican Places, nor any of its sister companies, which are all part of Serenity Holidays Limited.

Now in its 21st year of operation, Corsican Places Limited is the leading specialist to Corsica, offering the largest portfolio of holiday accommodation to the UK market.
Corsican Places Limited is ATOL protected (Air Travel Organiser’s Licence Number, 2647) - an accreditation administered by the Civil Aviation Authority, which gives clients security and reassurance when booking a package holiday.

Chris Ayling, Serenity Holidays director said:

“Corsican Places is an experienced tour operator that is fully bonded to ensure peace of mind when booking a package holiday. My message to the public would be that if you do choose to book your flights, accommodation and transfers separately, then check now to ascertain if you are covered financially.”

Corsican Places Limited is also a member of AITO, The Association of Independent Tour Operators and ABTA, The Association of British Travel Agents. Both maintain strict guidelines for membership.

As well as Corsican Places, Serenity Holidays Ltd also owns The Gambia Experience, The Senegal Experience, The Cape Verde Experience, Turkish Places, Sardinian Places and Great Escapes.
For more information, please call Corsican Places Reservations Dept on 0845 330 2113 or visit www.corsica.co.uk

For AITO’s Quality Charter, please visit:
http://www.aito.co.uk/corporate_QualityCharter.asp

For more on ABTA’s Code of Conduct, please visit:
http://www.abta.com/about/industry_standards

Calvi, Corsica: My kind of town

Martin Buckley - The Sunday Telegraph — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Why Calvi?

I’ve owned a house in north Corsica since 2003 and I go there several times a year. I’m always stirred by the sight of the town from the deck of an approaching ferry – the lofty citadel with its year-round backdrop of snowy mountains is one of the loveliest sights I know.

The locals claim Calvi as the birthplace of Christopher Columbus, and his house can still be seen – at least, its ruins can: Nelson reduced it to rubble when he bombarded the French garrison in 1794 (he paid by losing the sight in his right eye in a return of fire). Calvi is a magnet for the yacht-owning super-rich, who sail from Nice or Cannes. In the lush Balangne, unspoilt mountain villages produce superb wine, cheese, olive oil and wild boar sausage.

What do you miss most when you're away?

The light; and Calvi’s great sabre of sand, five miles in length, with its inspiring view of the citadel. Apart from in the high season, you have the beach practically to yourself.

What's the first thing you do on arrival?

I go the newsagent at the top of boulevard Wilson and buy two newspapers, an English one and the local, Corse Matin. I read them at a table outside the café next door, the Rex. It’s a local joint with a real feel of traditional Corsica.

Where's the best place to stay?

La Villa (0033 495 651010; www.hotel-lavilla.com; doubles from £365) is the classy four-star above the town. In central Calvi, the Saint-Christophe is short on charisma but has an unbeatable seaside location (650574; www.saintchristophecalvi.com; from £140). Rent an apartment in the citadel, via Corsican Places (www.corsica.co.uk) or Directcorsica.com, or book an apartment for four at around £500 per week per person, including flights.

Where would you meet friends for a drink?

Follow signs inside the citadel to the nightclub Chez Tao (650073; www.cheztao.com), created by a Russian aristocrat and a ballet dancer in 1928, first made Calvi chic, and it’s still popular with the French in-crowd. Break out your most stylish linens, and try not to flinch when they hand you the drinks bill.

Where is your favourite place for lunch?

For seafood I recommend the Bout du Monde (565 1541). And the Santa Maria, on the square opposite the Baroque pink marzipan church of the same name, is a cheerful and affordable bistro.

And for dinner?

You’ll need a car or taxi, as it’s a little way from Calvi: La Casa Musicale in Pigna (no street address – you can’t miss it; 561 7731). Gorgeous views.

Where would you send a first-time visitor?

To Ile Rousse on the bone-rattling miniature train; but Calvi also sits on the edge of a UNESCO Marine World Heritage Site, Scandola, that’s only accessible by boat: mottled-pink volcanic rocks, dolphins and seals. The glass-bottomed boats are not especially stable, so if you’re susceptible to sea-sickness, don’t go on days of heavy swell.

What would you tell them to avoid?

Dining at any of the preening cafés on the Quai Landry – high prices do not guarantee high quality.

Public transport or taxi?

Walk.

Handbag or moneybelt?

Corsican friends tell me darkly that the islanders have their own way of dealing with petty crime. For visitors, the island feels extraordinarily safe and secure.

What should I take home?

I have become addicted to the very high-quality local muscat as an apéritif. The music boxes handmade on the Strada di l’Artigiani in Pigna make lovely presents for families.

And if I've only time for one shop?

Annie Traiteur, 5 rue Clemenceau, is a terrific delicatessen specialising in Corsican produce.

Martin Buckley has a home on Corsica. His new travel book is An Indian Odyssey (Hutchinson £18.99)

Guide to eating in Bastia

Wed, 03 Sep 2008 17:14:41 GMT

Northern Corsica's main international airport is located just south of Bastia, from where visitors can organise multiple day-trips to various places of interest such as Cape Corsica or the mountains near Corte, all located about one hour drive away from the coastal town.

Gastronomy is at the very heart of Corsica's culture and gourmets will find in the citadel town of Bastia some exquisite places to sample traditional Corsican specialities such as brocchiu, charcuterie, veal with olives or even bouillabaisse.

Eating in the town centre:

For a taste of Corsican typical specialities, head for the "Rue des Sens" restaurant at 1 rue Pino. Menus start at €14.

"La Table du Marche Saint-Jean" in the place du Marche is the ideal choice in this part of town for fish and seafood dishes. Menus are at €25.

"Un Autre Monde" offers a great choice of sweet and salty crepes. The restaurant is located at 3 rue saint Erasme.

Snacks and ice-creams are available all day at the "Glacier Raugi", at 2bis rue Capanelle.

Restaurants within the citadel:

"Sampiero", place du Donjon, and "La Citadelle", 6 rue du Dragon, both serve a large array of traditional Corsican dishes and their locations within the citadel's walls always add something to the atmosphere.

"Sampiero" also specialises in fish dishes, including fish soup and scorpion fish.

Seaside restaurants:

The Old Harbour is an excellent place to find a restaurant with sea view such as the "Le Colomba" restaurant at 2 quai sud. This is a good place for French cuisine.

The "Caveau du Marin" is also based in the Old Harbour, in the Quai des Martyrs-de-la-Liberation. The chefs serve French and Corsican cuisine dishes and menus start from €22.

"Les Zephyrs" offers various typical dishes from the island, as well as pizzas, pasta dishes and crepes. The restaurant is in 6 rue des Zephirs and is only open for the high season starting from the end of April.

For pizzas and grilled meat dishes, "Le Pressoir" is the ideal spot in town, with a la carte and menus at €20. The restaurant is open everyday except on Sundays, and is located on route du cap toga.

Restaurants outside of Bastia:

Holidaymakers planning a visit to Biguglia Lake, which is the island's biggest lake and a popular place for water sports activities, can stop for lunch at "Les Colonnades" gastronomic restaurant, which is located just over four kilometres south of Bastia.

The menus include an array of Mediterranean dishes for €25. The restaurant is part of the Ostella hotel which is in Avenue Sampiero Corso.

Alternatively, visitors looking for a quicker lunch can stop at the nearby fast-food restaurant "The Country Burger" in rue Santa Maddalena Le Prado. The restaurant is closed on Thursdays.

Visitors heading north towards Cape Corsica will enjoy fish dishes and seafood with unrestricted view over the Mediterranean Sea at the "La Terrasse" restaurant in Place d'Erbalunga in the village of Brando, situated 11 kilometres north of Bastia.

Menus start at €15 and the restaurant is open from mid-April to mid-October.

Melu and Capitellu Lakes

Wed, 03 Sep 2008 17:12:18 GMT

The area around Corte in central Corsica offers some rewarding hiking trails to a multitude of peaks and glacial lakes for thrill-seeking adventurers.

Both departing from the Bergeries de Grotelle car park at the end of the D623 road are the trails to the Melu (1,711m) and the Capitellu (1,930m) glacial lakes.

The trek to Melu Lake takes about one hour from the car park. From there, trekkers can decide to tackle a further 45-minute hike to Capitellu Lake for even more magnificent views.

Exploring Solenzara's coastline

Wed, 03 Sep 2008 17:11:30 GMT

Holidaymakers looking for a bit more adventure after hours spent sunbathing on Solenzara's sumptuous beaches can opt for sea kayaking or a boating trip to explore the area's multiple hidden coves and creeks.

This is an ideal excursion for groups of friends and Corse Pneu'marine can arrange boat rental from Solenzara for non-licensed visitors.

The brig 380 motor boat can sit up to four people and costs €120 to rent per day.

Solenzara is located on the eastern coast of Corsica, about 45 minutes north of Porto Vecchio.

Corsica and Pascal Paoli

Wed, 03 Sep 2008 17:10:26 GMT

Corsica's "Babbu di a Patria" or father of the nation is celebrated at the Maison Natale de Pascal Paoli in Morosaglia, a must-do on a visit to northern Corsica.

The museum, which was installed into Paoli's birthplace, retraces the biography of the national hero and the history of his government in the 18th century.

The museum is open from 9am to 5pm from October to April and 6pm during the high season.

Morosaglia is located about 50 kilometres south of Bastia.

Night out in Porto Vecchio

Wed, 03 Sep 2008 17:08:31 GMT

Equally popular among locals and visitors, the cabaret "La Taverne du Roi" is the ideal place to listen to traditional Corsican singing, as well as other modern French and International titles.

Artists come to perform here every night under the mystical vaults of Porto Vecchio's Genoese tower.

The Taverne is located at 43 Borgo Street and is open every day from 10.30pm.

Porto Vecchio is located about 20 minutes away from Figari airport and about two hours from capital Ajaccio.

EasyJet cuts booking fee

Wed, 03 Sep 2008 17:07:18 GMT

Low-cost carrier easyJet, which offers flights to Corsica from London Gatwick, has announced plans to cut booking fees for business travel.

The airline will drop the per-seat booking fee from $5 to £3.30 in a bid to increase the number of business travellers taking advantage of its flights.

It is hoped the move will encourage business travel agents to offer their customers easyJet flights.

Recent travel disruptions 'highlight need for insurance'

Wed, 03 Sep 2008 12:05:01 GMT

The recent problems caused by unforeseen events such as Hurricane Gustav, political unrest and the collapse of Zoom airlines highlights the need for comprehensive travel insurance, one price comparison website has said.

Moneysupermarket.com has reminded holidaymakers that the best way to prepare for a holiday is by choosing the right travel insurance policy.

"No one can foresee the problems that may beset unsuspecting travellers, yet planning for every eventuality with comprehensive travel insurance is crucial - especially if faced with cancelled or delayed flights due to adverse weather conditions," the company said.

Ferry travel 'more pleasant than flying'

Wed, 03 Sep 2008 12:04:26 GMT

Ferry travel is a much more relaxed and pleasant experience compared to flying, the Passenger Shipping Association has said.

William Gibbons, director of the organisation, explained that when taking a ferry guests have the chance to relax before their holiday begins.

Taking a car onto a ferry also cuts out any of the stress associated with flying.

"You don't have to worry about parking your car at the airport, transfers to the airport," he said.

Exploring remote beauties

Tue, 02 Sep 2008 17:56:01 GMT

The Beauty Island has scattered hidden treasures all around the island but some of them can only be reached by sea.

Sea kayaking is the best way to reach those little-explored coves and inlets hidden along the coast.

From Tizzano in southern Corsica, holidaymakers can rent kayaks and snorkelling gear and row their way along idyllic Cala di Conca or Erbaju Beach.

To reach Tizzano, take the D48 road from Sartene, which is situated just over an hour from Ajaccio.

Paddaghiu menhirs

Tue, 02 Sep 2008 17:55:01 GMT

Paddaghiu has the largest collection of menhirs in the Mediterranean, an impressive relic of bygone civilisations which will captivate both children and adults.

The Alignement of Paddaghiu is well worth visiting on a holiday to Corsica as it counts some 255 megalithic statuaries, a large number of which are still in the standing position.

The prehistoric site is located near Sartene and Bonifacio, and is also easily accessible from capital Ajaccio, situated about 85 kilometres north.

Tour di Campomoro

Tue, 02 Sep 2008 17:54:16 GMT

Scuba divers will particularly like the village of Campomoro in southern Corsica as it is a prime diving destination in the summer when water temperatures reach the 26 degrees C.

Campomoro was also a major strategic point during the Genoese occupation in the 15th and 16th centuries, and the Campomoro tower is well worth a visit.

The tower, which is one of the biggest in Corsica, was used to track the enemies and protect the Gulf of Valinco.

The village is located near Propriano, about one and a half hours away from Ajaccio.

Hiking trail around Biguglia

Tue, 02 Sep 2008 17:52:10 GMT

Holidaymakers on their way to visit Biguglia Lake can take a short hike to Saint Andre Chapel for commanding views over the village of Biguglia and the surrounding valley, all the way to the Mediterranean Sea.

The chapel itself, which is called Sant'Andria di Fabrica and dates back to around 1,000 AD, is also well worth a visit from an archaeological point of view.

The way marked footpath starts from the village of Biguglia, which is a 10-kilometer drive away from Bastia.

Corsica's largest lake

Tue, 02 Sep 2008 17:51:27 GMT

Biguglia Lake is the perfect destination for a Sunday break for Bastia's inhabitants and is also a popular excursion for holidaymakers all year long.

The lake is Corsica's largest, measuring some 1,450 hectares. It is located at the very heart of the Biguglia Nature Reserve, a haven of peace for numerous species and aquatic plants.

To visit the area, take the N193 road from Bastia and drive south for about ten kilometres to reach the northernmost point of the lake.

Biguglia Lake extends over 11 kilometres in total, all the way to Marana beach which is only a few minutes away from Bastia-Poretta airport.

Brits seek out thrills on holiday

Tue, 02 Sep 2008 17:50:08 GMT

Britons are increasingly seeking out adventurous activities to try on holiday, according to new research.

Figures from investment bank Cater Allen show that 54 per cent of holidaymakers plan to try their hand at an outdoor activity while on holiday.

Top of the list is trekking, with 26 per cent planning to take in the scenery of their holiday destination with a hike.

Scuba diving, bungee jumping and white water rafting are also popular pursuits for adrenaline-junkie tourists.

Corsica 'perfect for activity holidays'

Tue, 02 Sep 2008 17:49:31 GMT

The GR20 walking trail makes Corsica the perfect destination for an activity break, one travel expert has said.

Lucy White, editor of the Rough Guide to Corsica, explained that as well as appealing to those looking for a luxury beach break, Corsica has plenty to offer those looking for a more active holiday.

She explained that completing the GR20 can fill a whole two-week break as the hiking route takes about 15 days to complete.

Virgin confirms Gatwick bid

Tue, 02 Sep 2008 17:49:00 GMT

Virgin has confirmed newspaper reports that it is interested in making a bid for Gatwick Airport.

A spokesperson for Sir Richard Branson's Virgin Group said that its main airline Virgin Atlantic would be interested in running the London terminal as part of a consortium.

This follows the Competition Commission's announcement last month that airport operator BAA should be broken up as it currently runs Gatwick, Heathrow and Stansted.

Gap year budgeting advice issued

Tue, 02 Sep 2008 17:48:24 GMT

The Fair Investment Company has issued savings advice to travellers following research which suggests the average gap year now costs more than £4,000.

Students can cut costs by shopping around for the best-priced travel insurance and using a pre-paid credit card.

Fixing a stringent spending budget for while away can also help to limit the costs of a gap year break, as can opening a high interest savings account before jetting off.

Spokesperson Rachael Stiles explained that the interest generated by the right savings account can make a real difference to how much students have to take away.

Growth in all inclusive holidays noted

Tue, 02 Sep 2008 17:46:43 GMT

A growing number of holidaymakers are choosing to take all inclusive breaks, which are easier to budget for, one travel expert has said.

Bob Atkinson from Travelsupermarket.com explained that as a result of the credit crunch, all inclusive holiday deals have grown in popularity.

He noted a "big growth" in all inclusive bookings over the course of the summer, with holidaymakers also cutting down on the number of short breaks they take.

Stag and hen parties explore "more exotic destinations"

Tue, 02 Sep 2008 17:45:42 GMT

Brides and grooms-to-be are increasingly keen to explore more exotic destinations on their stag and hen parties, one expert has said.

The trend for overseas stag and hen parties has continued despite the credit crunch, explained Ben Rodger, marketing manager of Release Travel.

He added that people are choosing to "explore newer more exotic destinations" and travel to "more unique memorable locations".

Things to do in Bastia

Tue, 02 Sep 2008 17:44:05 GMT

Bastia welcomes thousands of visitors every year who have come to explore the north of the island and areas like the Balagne, Cape Corsica or the island's mountains.

Bastia-Poretta airport is the second major international airport on the island after Ajaccio Campo dell'Oro in the south, and is a good base to explore the northern part of Corsica.

Although most visitors prefer the beaches of Calvi or Ile-Rousse, Bastia also has its fair share of white sandy beaches and water sports activities.

The town also has a few cultural sights which are well worth a visit and is located just under one hour north of the Maison Natale de Pascal Paoli, the birthplace of the island's hero par excellence.

Bastia's main historical site is of course its Genoese citadel which was built in the 16th century for the Genoese governor of Corsica and its 15th century Sainte-Marie Cathedral.

On the way to the citadel fortress, visitors can stop at the botanical gardens Jardin Romieu, which are open from 8am to 8pm in the summer.

Bastia's other places of interest include Corsica's largest church, the 17th-century Saint-Jean Baptiste Church on the Hotel de Ville square, as well as the Baroque chapel the Oratoire de l'Immaculee Conception, which was home to the Anglo-Corsican Parliament in the late 1790s, when Britain briefly claimed sovereignty over the French island.

Nearby Saint-Nicolas square is a pleasant pedestrian-only area with plenty of cafes and restaurants, as well as Bastia's war memorial and statue of Napoleon.

The Hotel de Ville square also makes a pleasant stroll while tasting local delicacies at the small market.

For a full understanding of Corsica's history, holidaymakers can join one of the multi-lingual tours organised by the association Via Corsica Euro-Tourisme.

The three main themes offered for the tours are Baroque Bastia, Genoese Bastia and the town's lay religious brotherhoods.

Northern Corsica's capital is also one of the best places to organise water sports activities in the area, including sailing, windsurfing, diving, kayaking, sea fishing but also paragliding and horse riding in the maquis and along the beach.

The town's best sandy beaches, including the Arinella and Marana beaches, are located south of town, but there are also some pleasant shingle beaches like Grigione or Miomo beach in the north.

Multiple day-trips to the mountains or the north and western coasts can also be organised from Bastia.

Located only a few kilometres south of Bastia near the airport is Biguglia Lake, which is Corsica's largest lake and is a popular base for all sorts of water sports activities.

Road trips in this part of the island abound and renting a car or motorbike is certainly the best way to fully appreciate the surroundings.

Driving through traditional villages perched in the mountains or along the coast in Cape Corsica for outstanding sea views is equally fascinating.

The drive to Ersa, which is the northernmost point of the island in Cape Corsica, only takes about one hour from Bastia.

Calvi and Ile-Rousse, by far the most popular seaside resorts of the area in the summer, are situated only about one and a half hours away.

The Island of Beauty has much more to offer than beach holidays and water sports however, and an excursion to the central part of the island is well worth the trip to see some awe-inspiring 2,000-metre peaks.

The area around Corte, which is about one hour south of Bastia, has some challenging and fascinating hiking trails to glacial lakes and rewarding panoramas.

Guide to eating in Porto Vecchio

Tue, 02 Sep 2008 17:41:51 GMT

Looking for a place to relax while sipping a cocktail facing the Big Blue? Want to treat your taste buds to some of the best French and Corsican cuisine? Porto Vecchio welcomes thousands of new and regular visitors every year, all fascinated by the Island of Beauty.

Eating in the town centre:

"Le Troubadour", 13 rue du General Leclerc, is the best place to go in town for wine amateurs. The restaurant's open-plan wine cellar holds wines from all around the world.

The restaurant is open all-year long and there is a private parking for clients. Menus average €29.

"Sous la Tonelle", rue Abbatucci, is a traditional Corsican cuisine heaven with menus at €25. In July and August the restaurant is only open in the evenings.

"Stella Marina", 1 rue Pasteur, serves both pizzas and Corsican dishes for around €20 per person. The place is only open from April to September.

Seaside restaurants:

"U Corsu" is located on the commercial port. Views from the restaurant spread across the gulf of Porto Vecchio, the harbour, the citadel and the surrounding mountains.

Menus are at €28 and include a selection of typically Mediterranean dishes of fish and grilled meat. The restaurant is closed outside of the high season from the end of December to the end of March.

"L'Antigu" is located in the very heart of the citadel (51 rue Borgu) and offers some of the best views across the gulf from its open-air terrace. The restaurant is open all year-round and menus are at €22 in the evenings.

"Le Bistrot" is located on Quai Pascal Paoli and is open all year-round except in February. This is the place to go for some excellent fish dishes. Count €45 per person for a la carte orders.

In the vicinity of Porto Vecchio:

"Le Refuge" restaurant is situated just outside of Porto Vecchio, near the village called l'Ospedale on the D368, in the locality of Cartalavonu.

Corsican specialities and folk dancing and singing twice a week is on the menu. The place is open from March to November and the average price per person is €22.

Visitors looking for a real treat should head for the "Santa Maria" gastronomic restaurant in Santa Giulia marina, just south of Porto Vecchio on the N198.

The restaurant's gastro menu is at €36 at lunch time and at €56 for dinner. The place also has gorgeous views over Santa Giulia Bay and has a swimming pool and beach access.

The restaurant is only open during the high season from April to mid-November.

Restaurants outside of Porto Vecchio:

Visitors to Corsica planning a visit to the archaeological sites of the Alta Rocca region should aim for a lunch break at the restaurant "L'Oree du Site" near the ruins of Araghju, located around 15 minutes away from Porto Vecchio.

The place offers snacks and restaurant meals all day, including Corsican dishes such as sciaccia, suckling-pig, veal with olives, fiadonu and chestnut flan.

It is best to time a visit for Saturday evenings when the restaurant holds its weekly folk dancing and singing nights.

Menus average the €9 and the restaurant is open from April to mid-October only.

Driving into central Corsica is an unforgettable experience and holidaymakers staying in Porto Vecchio should head for the town of Zonza in the Alta Rocca to admire Bavella's needles and its cragged landscape from the Auberge du Sanglier's terrace.

The restaurant is a 45-minute drive away and menus include diverse local Corsican specialities for around €22 per person. The place is closed from January to mid-March.

Corte 'a truly Corsican destination'

Mon, 01 Sep 2008 18:17:20 GMT

Corte is one of the traditionally Corsican destinations on the popular holiday island.

Jean-Marc Olivesi, director of the island's museums, told the New York Times, that the town has a unique place in the history of Corsica.

"For Corsicans, Corte is symbolic of our identity, the place that was least altered by outsiders," he explained.

Given its rugged geography, the city has a culture that is completely Corsican and has remained untouched, unlike the coastal towns which "have a history wrapped up with Genoa or with France".

Caravan theft cut by security measures

Mon, 01 Sep 2008 18:16:40 GMT

Advanced security measures have helped to cut the number of caravan thefts, figures from the National Caravan Council show.

Wheel clamps and chassis locks are being used by caravan holidaymakers to secure their vehicles, explained the council's director of communications Louise Wood.

She said that by using these devices, caravan owners have helped to halve the number of thefts.

Popularity of ferry travel 'to continue to rise'

Mon, 01 Sep 2008 18:16:00 GMT

Ferry travel is set to continue rising in popularity as tourists look for less expensive ways to holiday, one industry organisation has said.

The Passenger Shipping Association has suggested that ferries are good value for money and will continue to attract travellers given the current economic climate.

"Travelling by ferry is incredibly good value, especially if you are prepared to travel outside the more busy times," said the association's director William Gibbons.

ABTA calls for greater protection against airline collapse

Mon, 01 Sep 2008 12:31:12 GMT

The Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA) is calling on the government to provide holidaymakers with greater protection against airline collapse.

Following the failure of Zoom, the organisation has said the government should do more to make sure airlines offer financial protection to customers.

"This failure in a tough economic climate, along with numerous other airline failures this year, highlights the importance of having financial protection in place when you book flights," said ABTA's chief executive Mark Tanzer.

Different destinations 'need different insurance'

Mon, 01 Sep 2008 12:30:41 GMT

Holidaymakers should chose their travel insurance policies based on the type of trip they wish to take.

Malcolm Tarling from the Association of British Insurers (ABI) has suggested that different destinations may have individual risks resulting in the need for tailored insurance policies.

For example, he explained that those people taking an adventure or outdoors break – such as those available in Corsica – may need to take out an insurance package that covers outdoor pursuits.

Brits risk it without travel insurance

Mon, 01 Sep 2008 12:30:01 GMT

A new report has revealed that an increased number of tourists are taking risks by travelling without insurance.

Figures from Insurefor.com show almost a third of people plan to take a holiday without taking out travel insurance.

Antony Martin, managing director at the insurance firm, said: "Why anyone would travel without insurance is beyond my comprehension.

"Policies start from under £5 per person which when compared to the costs clients could incur without insurance is very low."

Bonifacio 'best seen by sea'

Mon, 01 Sep 2008 10:20:45 GMT

The coastal Corsican town of Bonifacio is best approached by the sea, one travel expert has said.

Approaching the town by sea gives visitors a stunning view of the rugged Corsican landscape, New York Times travel writer Seth Sherwood has said.

Describing the view of Bonifacio from a boat, he commented: "At sea level, enormous grottoes open darkly in the cliff walls, revealing candle-drip stalactites.

"Wind-eroded rock formations, some as large as Manhattan apartment buildings, sprout mysteriously from the sea."

Holiday romance leads to love for Brits

Mon, 01 Sep 2008 10:20:01 GMT

Holiday romance has led to marriage for one in ten Britons, according to new research.

A survey from Moneysupermarket.com has revealed that nine per cent of UK tourists said a holiday fling has resulted in a wedding.

Interestingly, older holidaymakers are more likely to let a holiday romance blossom with one in five tying the knot with a partner met overseas.

"It seems the over sixties are hopeless romantics and it's great to know that you are never too old to find love," said Peter Gerrard from the price comparison website.

Overseas buyers 'fall into two categories'

Mon, 01 Sep 2008 10:18:39 GMT

There are two types of overseas property buyers, one industry expert has said.

Lifestyle buyers are looking for a second home in the sun or a possible retirement location.

The second type of buyers are "hard-nosed investors" who ignore details such as location and look purely at possible returns, explained Nicholas Marr, chief executive of Homesgofast.com.

However, both are currently in a strong position given the current property market.
"Whatever the types of buyer, both are now in for a treat when buying abroad," he said.

Euro sales remain strong

Mon, 01 Sep 2008 10:17:22 GMT

Despite the current economic climate, Britons are still planning foreign holidays, figures from the Post Office suggest.

Sales of euros rose by 3.2 per cent in June and July, suggesting that Brits are still keen on overseas breaks.

And instead of heading to other currency zones to offset the increased strength of the euro, Brits are sticking close to home.

Euro sales have grown by six per cent over the course of 2008, which Post Office suggests is proof of "the resilient demand for holidays in the euro zone".

Campers given insurance advice

Mon, 01 Sep 2008 10:16:47 GMT

Holidaymakers taking a camping trip should check their insurance policies as not all items may be covered.

The Fair Investment Company has reminded campers that items stolen from tents or damaged on a campsite are not always protected by home contents or travel insurance deals.

Checking the details of cover before travelling was advised by spokesperson Rachael Stiles.

She added: "Be careful, if you leave items unattended in a tent and they get stolen, it is unlikely that an insurance company will pay out for a claim as it is the policy holder's responsibility to 'take every reasonable precaution to prevent loss or damage'.

Windsurfing race comes to Corsica

Mon, 01 Sep 2008 10:15:56 GMT

Corsica will welcome the annual Le Defi Inter-Iles windsurfing race next month.

The 11-mile event attracts interest from windsurfing fans from across the globe.

This year, over a hundred of the best windsurfers are due to take part in the race, organised by the Bonifacio-based Club de Voile, between Corsica to Sardinia.

Windsurfing fever takes over both islands and visitors can experience the unique atmosphere at the beach-side café and bars of Bonifacio.

Foreign property market 'still strong'

Mon, 01 Sep 2008 10:14:09 GMT

The foreign property market is "far from grinding to a halt", one expert has assured investors.

Nicholas Marr, chief executive of Homesgosfast.com, explained that the current market is "all about value for money" with buyers "picking and choosing the best properties".

This may be good news for people looking into property in Corsica, as buyers who have "high loan-to-value finance are now reaping the rewards".

Lost luggage gender divide

Mon, 01 Sep 2008 10:13:14 GMT

A survey from Co-operative Insurance has revealed the items that Brits would miss the most if their luggage was lost of misplaced.

Almost a third of women said a lost bikini would ruin their holiday, while 25 per cent said missing knickers would be the biggest nuisance.

In comparison, men would least like to lose sunglasses. Swimming trunks came in second place, closely followed by mobile phones.

Just seven per cent of men said underwear would be the worst thing to lose if a suitcase went missing.

Brits warned against airport euros

Mon, 01 Sep 2008 10:12:33 GMT

A currency expert has advised holidaymakers to avoid buying euros at airport currency exchanges.

Exchange rates and fees at the airport could add to the increased cost of travelling abroad, said Stephen Heath, chief executive of FairFX.com.

He explained that zero percent commission deals hide "poor rates of exchange".

"I would warn anyone planning to get their Euros from the airport to think again," Mr Heath said.

Corsica 'an alternative to South of France'

Mon, 01 Sep 2008 10:11:51 GMT

Corsica is proving to be a "discreet" alternative to breaks in the South of France, according to one travel writer.

Writing in the New York Times, Seth Sherwood explained that the island offers a more relaxed alternative to places like St Tropez and the Cote d'Azur.

Patrice Arend, who owns an antiques store in Bonifacio, said: "In Corsica, you have none of the artificiality of the Cote d'Azur."

"A lot of famous people come here, but they come so that they can be incognito."

Free travel money for savers

Mon, 01 Sep 2008 10:11:10 GMT

Skipton Building Society is offering free travel money to customers who open a savings account over the course of September.

Customers can qualify for £25 of free travel money by opening a Special Savers Account and using the company's currency service.

General manager for sales and marketing Steve Aldous explained that the deal is designed to help holidaymakers with the increased cost of travelling.

"As the price of holidays goes up, more and more of us need to plan well ahead to cover the costs," he commented.

Travel advice issued for Zoom passengers

Fri, 29 Aug 2008 18:11:41 GMT

The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has issued advice to those passengers affected by the collapse of Zoom Airlines.

All UK passengers who were planning to travel back to the country with Zoom have been advised to seek alternative arrangements.

Refunds for customers who have made forward bookings could be obtained via credit card companies, the CAA has said.

Passengers have also been encouraged to check their travel insurance policies to check what protection, if any, is offered in event of airline insolvency.

Aeroplane wi-fi moves a step closer

Fri, 29 Aug 2008 18:02:10 GMT

The possibility of accessing the internet on board flights could increase as one airline launches in-flight wi-fi tests.

American Airlines has launched a six-month trial of its new in-flight wireless internet connection on 15 planes.

Passengers travelling to New York, San Francisco, Los Angeles and Miami will be able to take advantage of the service.

If successful, the system will be introduced on more flights and could be explored by other airlines.

Confusion over flight protection

Fri, 29 Aug 2008 18:01:13 GMT

Holidaymakers are not fully aware of the protection available for cancelled flights.

A survey from TUI has revealed that 50 per cent of air passengers mistakenly believe that they are covered if an airline files for bankruptcy.

According to TravelMole, 90 per cent of those polled considered financial protection for their holiday an important factor.

The figures were released in light of the recent collapse of low-cost international airline Zoom this week. Over 60,000 passengers had made forward bookings with the airline.

Cruises 'better value'

Fri, 29 Aug 2008 18:00:40 GMT

Cruise holidays have fallen in price by £2,000 over the past ten year, figures from P&O suggest.

The cruise line has revealed that the price of taking a cruise currently stands at around £1,579 per couple, down from £2,520 in 1998.

This equates to a price drop of £900 per person.

"Household expenditure on everyday items has practically doubled, whilst cruise holidays have become more affordable than ever," said P&O's managing director Nigel Esdale.

Summer holidays rise in price

Fri, 29 Aug 2008 17:59:45 GMT

The cost of taking a traditional summer holiday has risen over the past year, TravelSupermarket.com suggests.

According to the company's travel expert Bob Atkinson, breaks that appeared "quite cheap" last summer have now risen in price.

The strength of the Euro is one factor making trips more expensive, as are rising fuel costs which are adding to the price of flights.

He also suggested that holidaymakers are now leaving bookings to the last minute and then realising that prices are higher than expected.

Figures from Travel Weekly suggest that up to five million Britons will book their main summer break for 2009 in the next two to three months.

Brits to take less short breaks in the credit crunch

Fri, 29 Aug 2008 17:59:13 GMT

Holidaymakers will cut back on the number of short breaks they take as a result of the current economic downturn, according to one industry expert.

Bob Atkinson, travel expert at TravelSupermarket.com, has suggested that city breaks and long weekends away in short-haul destinations will fall in popularity over the winter.

People tend to take a fortnight holiday and then up to four short breaks through the year, however he does not expect this trend to continue.

Porto-Vecchio a "luxurious" destination

Fri, 29 Aug 2008 17:58:30 GMT

The popular holiday resort of Porto-Vecchio in Corsica is the ideal spot for a luxury holiday, one expert has said.

Situated on the south of the island, the town and the nearby Bonifacio can offer tourists a "luxurious getaway".

The reliable climate also makes Corsica popular with holidaymakers, said Lucy White, editor of the Rough Guide to Corsica.

"In the summer, the weather can be relied upon to be hot and sunny," she commented.

Nudist holidays grow in popularity

Thu, 28 Aug 2008 16:12:51 GMT

Nudist breaks are growing in popularity, according to new research.

A poll from Cheapflights.co.uk has revealed that ten per cent of holidaymakers would like to visit a nudist beach while abroad.

The research revealed that the number of people heading to designated nudist or clothing-optional beaches is increasing at an annual rate of 20 per cent.

The trend has also been noted by TripAdvisor, spokeswoman Michele Perry explained to Reuters: "For travellers, a great vacation is all about escaping. For most that means escaping the confines of their homes, for others, it is best achieved by escaping the confines of their clothes."

French property a "good investment"

Thu, 28 Aug 2008 16:11:13 GMT

Property in French destinations is a "good investment" choice, one property consultant has said.

Trisha Mason, managing director of VEF explained that demand for French properties is high, with professional couples and holidaymakers keen to rent.

Apartments and houses in need of renovation make especially savvy investments, she explained.

"It is often possible to enter this market for around €100,000," Ms Mason added.

Dental tourists 'must do their research'

Thu, 28 Aug 2008 16:10:25 GMT

Britons heading overseas to have medical or dental treatment should make sure they do their research beforehand.

The British Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (BACD) has explained that many procedures can be done overseas quicker than in the UK.

However, he urged those Brits thinking of taking advantage of overseas dental treatment to check out their new doctor or dentist's portfolio.

"It's very important to go to the dentist's website, see how many veneer cases they’ve done – or any of the procedures they've done – rather than just going with it on price," the BACD representative added.

Timeshares 'can save holiday sacrifice'

Thu, 28 Aug 2008 16:09:26 GMT

Timeshare properties could help people enjoy holidays during the credit crunch, one expert has said.

Brett Archibald, senior vice president at RCI, has suggested that a timeshare can offer "good value for money", especially in times of economic uncertainty.

Timeshare members budget in advance for breaks at timeshare properties, which means that they will be guaranteed a holiday and will not need to spend extra on booking an overseas trip.

Mr Archibald was speaking after research from RCI found that more than 50 per cent of Brits plan to cut back on holidays in a bid to beat the credit crunch.

CAA to carry out passenger poll

Thu, 28 Aug 2008 16:08:41 GMT

The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has announced plans to gain feedback from airport users.

Passengers travelling through Gatwick, Heathrow and Stansted airports over the coming months will be asked for their views.

CAA representatives will quiz flyers on issues such as the services provided by airlines and airports and their in-flight experience.

Ticket booking and airport security provisions will also be considered, before recommendations for any changes are made next year.

Travellers change plans 'to cut carbon footprint'

Thu, 28 Aug 2008 16:07:55 GMT

Holidaymakers are changing their travel arrangements and seeking out alternative transport methods in order to cut their carbon footprints.

John Torrance, campaigns director for the Campaign for Better Transport, has explained that instead of taking cheap flights to short-haul destinations, Britons are prepared to use rail links instead.

Travelling by train not only reduces carbon emissions, but can offer a less stressful experience for tourists.

"When you travel from airport to airport, you not only have the delays but you also have the extra travel getting to and from the airport," Mr Torrance added.

Monarch to set flight on reality TV

Wed, 27 Aug 2008 17:57:57 GMT

Monarch Airlines is preparing for the launch of a new reality TV show that will see six celebrities run a low-cost airline.

CelebAir will see six famous faces put through cabin crew training as they compete to offer passengers the best service from London Gatwick.

Coaching the celebrities will be members of Monarch staff who will also judge the contestants' performance.

Tim Jeans, Managing director of Monarch Airlines, said: "As the most experienced airline in the UK, who better to provide the support and infrastructure for the celebrities and CelebAir than Monarch?"

Virgin profits boosted by business flyers

Wed, 27 Aug 2008 17:56:20 GMT

Business class flyers have helped Virgin Atlantic to boost its annual profits.

The number of passengers choosing to fly in Virgin's Premium cabins rose by 22 per cent over the past year, with pre-tax profits up 38 per cent to £60.9 million.

Total passenger numbers also increased for the carrier, with the airline flying 5.7 million people during the past 12 months.

Meanwhile, Sir Richard Branson has spoken out against plans from British Airways and American Airlines to merge.

Brits 'better at integrating overseas'

Wed, 27 Aug 2008 17:36:41 GMT

Britons are getting better at integrating with local communities when moving overseas, one expert has said.

Dave Isley, head of NatWest International Personal Banking, has explained that people in the UK feel "more able to move abroad to work" than ever before.

Brits are also comfortable with the prospect of retiring to a foreign country.

"They're moving from the UK because the opportunities that they've been given to work abroad are there, whereas they might not have been before," he added.

1.3m backpackers fall prey to thieves

Tue, 26 Aug 2008 15:46:40 GMT

One in 11 travellers have been the victims of theft while abroad, figures from InsureandGo show.

He travel insurance firm found that 1.3 million backpackers have had items stolen while on trips abroad.

Male backpackers appear to be at greater risk of opportunistic thieves, with 13 per cent of male travellers reporting theft, compared to four per cent of women.

Perry Wilson, founder of InsureandGo said that the figures serve to show that backpackers are "not indestructible" and need to ensure they have adequate cover.

Older travellers 'favour last-minute deals'

Tue, 26 Aug 2008 15:46:07 GMT

A growing number of older holidaymakers are booking their holidays at the last minute, new figures suggest.

Over-55s operator Grand UK Holidays has revealed that 60 per cent of bookings made between July and August were for last-minute breaks.

Some 13 per cent of these last-minute breaks were for travel in August, reports TravelMole.

Sales director Harold Burke told the website that this trend has become "more pronounced over recent years".

Brits keen to shed holiday image

Tue, 26 Aug 2008 15:45:28 GMT

Britons are choosing less-frequented holiday destinations in a bid shed the 'Brits abroad' holiday image, new research suggests.

A survey from private bank Cater Allen found that 52 per cent of holidaymakers are choosing breaks in alternative locations – such as Corsica.

"Britons are becoming more discerning about where they holiday and are keen to avoid stereotypes of British unruliness abroad," explained Sally Watts, director of Marketing at Cater Allen.

She added that "today's international Britons" are now looking for "luxury lodges and holidays that reflect their ambitions".

Corsica's Honey Festival

Tue, 26 Aug 2008 15:02:56 GMT

Honey is an integral part of Corsica's local produce and deserves its own festival on the island which is held every year in Murzo in September.

This is the perfect opportunity for foreign visitors to taste local products and purchase some of the best honey in Europe for friends back home.

There is a large range of choice from orange honey, to lavender or strawberry tree honey, some marked with the AOC label.

This year's 12th edition of the Mele in Festa will take place on September, 20th and 21st.

Murzo is located around one hour north of capital Ajaccio.

Filitosa in 3,300 BC

Tue, 26 Aug 2008 15:02:05 GMT

Visitors to southern Corsica can come and marvel at the island's past and mysteries in the archaeological site of Filitosa.

Excavations on the site began in 1946 when archaeologists discovered pottery and farming tools dating back to the fourth millennium BC.

What tends to draw visitors' attention to the site however are the two-metre-high menhir statues posted all around the site. The statues represent human faces carved in the rock.

Filitosa is located near the village of Sollacaro, an hour drive south of Corsica's capital Ajaccio.

Week pass to the imperial town

Tue, 26 Aug 2008 15:01:24 GMT

Holidaymakers intending to stay in Corsica's capital Ajaccio for a few days can buy a museum week pass, giving free access to the Fesch museum, the Imperial Chapel, the A Bandera museum, the Maison Bonaparte and the Salon Napoleonien.

The pass can be purchased at the tourist office or at one of the participating museums for €10.

The pass does not however include entrance to the privately-owned Capitellu museum which retraces the history of the imperial town from a domestic point of view, through numerous day-to-day objects and religious relics.

Hiking in the Vizzavona Forest

Tue, 26 Aug 2008 15:00:43 GMT

Located less than one hour north of Corsica's capital Ajaccio, Vizzavona Forest and its numerous hiking trails constitute a perfect day out from the busy imperial town.

Visitors can explore some of the best landscapes in Corsica's mountains in this haven of peace, surrounded by 800-year-old pine trees in these 1,633 hectares of protected land.

There are around 25 different trails to choose from, some requiring more physical effort than others.

Nearby Vizzavona Park Adventure is a favourite among children with its numerous tree-climbing circuits.

Corsican pottery

Tue, 26 Aug 2008 14:59:59 GMT

Gateway to Sardinia, Bonifacio is also home to traditional Corsican values and arts, as its stunning landscape keeps attracting artists, painters and sculptors from all around the world.

For a quick glance at some Corsican art, holidaymakers sojourning in southern Corsica can visit Bonifacio's pottery workshop "La Poudriere".

Children will particularly enjoy the visit which shows the various processes of fabrication from the early stages to the final product.

The workshop is located in the town centre near the marine cemetery.

The Ospedale Forest

Tue, 26 Aug 2008 14:58:51 GMT

Holidaymakers sojourning in Porto Vecchio are only twenty minutes away from the Ospedale Forest on the winding D368 road and its dozens of scenic hikes through the pine tree expanses.

The forest is located just above the village of the same name from where visitors can already admire magnificent views across the gulf of Porto Vecchio.

Among the popular hikes we count: the Rocks Path, the walk to the 60-metre high Piscia di Gallu waterfall or the hike to the 1,314m Punta di a Vacca Morta for sweeping views over southern Corsica.

Tree climbing in Corsica

Tue, 26 Aug 2008 14:58:05 GMT

For a hilarious day out with children and friends, visitors on holiday to Corsica this summer should not miss the Grandeur Nature Park, a unique park where children and adults alike can play Tarzan in the trees.

The association has set up several circuits in the forest adapted to various ages and abilities from the age of six.

The park is located in Venaco in north Corsica, which is accessible from the N193, about 75 kilometres away from Bastia, Ile-Rousse or Ajaccio.

Corsica Forest Park Adventure

Tue, 26 Aug 2008 14:57:13 GMT

A holiday to Corsica would not be complete without even just a short stay at the very heart of Corsica's mountains.

Bavella, with its rugged scenery and adventure-packed excursions, attracts many visitors to this southern part of the island.

For a thrilling day out with friends and family, adventurers can join a canyoning, trekking or Via Ferrata excursion in the vertical universe of the island at Corsica Forest Park, located on the D268 road, around one and a half hours away from Ajaccio.

Cape Corsica and its Tour de Seneque

Tue, 26 Aug 2008 14:56:22 GMT

For outstanding views across the coastline and beyond, visitors to Corsica can take a four and a half hours pleasant walk to the crumbling Tour de Seneque and Pinzu a Vergine's prehistoric sites.

The trail starts and ends in Fenu hamlet. In Pinzu a Vergine, visitors will also come across a prehistoric menhir and several burial caves.

The walk offers magnificent views across Pinu harbour, and on a bright day, it is even possible to catch a glimpse at the French Alps and the Italian coast.

Fenu is located a few kilometres before Pinu, a 45-minute drive away from Bastia.

Reputable tour operators 'worth the extra price'

Fri, 22 Aug 2008 17:30:15 GMT

Paying a little extra to book a holiday through a reputable tour operator can offer peace of mind to tourists.

Ian Bradley from the Association of Independent Tour Operators (AITO) has suggested that booking with a well-known company could safeguard against any delays or cancellations.

He added that is especially important given the current economic climate.

"In this economic climate the last thing you want to do is lose your shirt by booking with a dodgy operator," the AITO representative said.

Card protection insurance advised for holidaymakers

Fri, 22 Aug 2008 17:29:13 GMT

Holidaymakers could benefit from card protection insurance, one expert has said.

To protect against credit card fraud and ensure they are protected while abroad, Brits should consider the most suitable policy, suggested Kerry D'Souza from CPP.

"Consider some card protection insurance before you go away, just so that if anything does happen, you have got some insurance in place there to cover yourself for any fraudulent activity," she said.

Research from the organisation revealed that a third of all card offences against Britons happen overseas.

Guide to eating in Porto Vecchio

Fri, 22 Aug 2008 16:50:59 GMT

Eating in the town centre:

"Le Troubadour", 13 rue du General Leclerc, is the best place to go in town for wine amateurs. The restaurant's open-plan wine cellar holds wines from all around the world.

The restaurant is open all-year long and there is a private parking for clients.

Menus average €29.

"Sous la Tonelle", rue Abbatucci, is a traditional Corsican cuisine heaven with menus at €25.

In July and August the restaurant is only open in the evenings.

"Stella Marina", 1 rue Pasteur, serves both pizzas and Corsican dishes for around €20 per person.

The place is only open from April to September.

Seaside restaurants:

"U Corsu" is located on the commercial port. Views from the restaurant spread across the gulf of Porto Vecchio, the harbour, the citadel and the surrounding mountains.

Menus are at €28 and include a selection of typically Mediterranean dishes of fish and grilled meat.

The restaurant is closed outside of the high season from the end of December to the end of March.

"L'Antigu" is located in the very heart of the citadel (51 rue Borgu) and offers some of the best views across the gulf from its open-air terrace.

The restaurant is open all year-round and menus are at €22 in the evenings.

"Le Bistrot" is located on Quai Pascal Paoli and is open all year-round except in February.

This is the place to go for some excellent fish dishes.

Count €45 per person for a la carte orders.

In the vicinity of Porto Vecchio:

"Le Refuge" restaurant is situated just outside of Porto Vecchio, near the village called l'Ospedale on the D368, in the locality of Cartalavonu.

Corsican specialities and folk dancing and singing twice a week is on the menu.

The place is open from March to November and the average price per person is €22.

Visitors looking for a real treat should head for the "Santa Maria" gastronomic restaurant in Santa Giulia marina, just south of Porto Vecchio on the N198.

The restaurant's gastro menu is at €36 at lunch time and at €56 for dinner.

The place also has gorgeous views over Santa Giulia Bay and has a swimming pool and beach access.

The restaurant is only open during the high season from April to mid-November.

Restaurants outside of Porto Vecchio:

The place offers snacks and restaurant meals all day, including Corsican dishes such as sciaccia, suckling-pig, veal with olives, fiadonu and chestnut flan.

It is best to time a visit for Saturday evenings when the restaurant holds its weekly folk dancing and singing nights.

Menus average the €9 and the restaurant is open from April to mid-October only.

The restaurant is a 45-minute drive away and menus include diverse local Corsican specialities for around €22 per person.

The place is closed from January to mid-March.