It can be fairly confusing when you decide to purchase property with the intention of renting it as a holiday rentals business. Although thousands of Britons have perhaps found it difficult due to the recession, many have also been subjected to fines for not having the correct license in place prior to renting out their holiday rentals in Spain. It seems that the sellers in some cases have been less than honest to unsuspecting investors from places such as the UK and other countries.

It was recently reported In a survey that approximately 80% of Britons were never sure about whether licences were required in order to rent out the property that they had already invested in Spain, and they probably only bought the holiday villa in Spain for holiday rental purposes. You therefore need to be very careful when looking for Spanish holiday villas until you fully understand the Spanish property laws.

The rental issue seems to be in relation to a complicated distinction made by Spanish property authorities between those properties considered ‘tourist apartments’ and those considered as ‘holiday rentals’. It seems that the tourist apartments fall under a special category and are deemed to have been built specifically to rent out to those visiting Spain as tourists. These tend to be part of a complex with basic conveniences and are managed by a single management company. The holiday homes on the other hand are thought of as private residences and are let out to visitors who come and visit Spain for a holiday on a temporary period.

However, this new distinction seems to have been manipulated and the rules contravened by property brokers who sold tourist apartments to many Britons as holiday homes and that has confused many individuals who now own such properties in Spain and has made them very confused as to whether they require licences to let them properties on a holiday rentals basis.

If this is not complicated enough, the issue gets complicated further when you have different rules applicable depending on where the property is actually located. If the property is on the mainland, it appears that no licence is required, though this may not be true for different areas within the mainland due to regional restrictions that come into play. If you lived in Murcia, you would need to register and can even be fined. But, in Andalusia for example, you only need to keep the local authorities informed, whereas in Valencia region, you are not required to do anything at all. In any case, the recommendation is to consult with your solicitor.

If you are seeking Spanish holiday rentals in the islands, the Spanish laws make it impossible for you to rent legally to any tourist. In Balearics for instance, you are allowed to rent out only designated official ‘tourist apartments’ and no ‘private residential apartments’ can be rented out. This seems very strange and perhaps a rule that is not enforced, but for those that own an independent villa in the Balearics and have licensed their property they can rent it out.

Nevertheless, it sees that despite this confusing, and apparent unreasonable stipulations, many private residential apartments as well as villas are still letting their properties for holiday rentals online and since a lot of them belong to Britons, they do stand the risk of getting fined.

Paul enjoys stays in self catering holiday villas and holiday apartments during his travels for both business and pleasure throughout Europe and Middle East and manages a number of holiday rentals worldwide at holidayrentalcentre.co.uk.

Dubai is classed as the leading business hub of the middle east, and is a city which continually stretches the boundaries in lifestyle and modernisation. Dubai strives for new innovative systems and amenities in providing a progressive civilization, comprising world class hotels, shopping malls and sports facilities.

Dubai International Airport greets hundreds of thousands of visitors who come to enjoy holiday villas in Dubai, or visitors who make connecting flights to Europe, Asia and other parts of the world, for business and pleasure.

Shopping

Dubai Mall: is the largest shopping mall in the world. The mall hosts some of the most famous brands in the world now, as well as some hugely popular attractions including a massive indoor aquarium and outdoor water fountain.

Wafi Shopping Centre: also caters for luxury brands, including jewelry and boutiques famous among the locals, and the elite tourists. Wafi is based around Egyptian architecture and includes Wafi Pyramids, which hosts some wonderful restaurants, spas and bars. Also at Wafi, you will find the Dubai Raffles Hotel, another one of Dubai’s five star hotels.

Events

Bride Show: More than 300 corporations from 16 countries worldwide come to Dubai to take part in the Bride Show, and present everything from wedding wear to honeymoon destinations. The show is annually, and is solely dedicated to the bride.

Festivals

Several Dubai travel agencies and tour operators offer discounts if visitors books through them early. otherwise you can make your own searches on the net.

Atlantis Dubai Aquarium

The new Aquarium at the Atlantis Dubai features some of the most amazing fish in the world. The aquarium can be seen from inside and outside of the hotel, and is a must to see.

Bastakiya:

The ancient Bastakiya town of Dubai is walk back down memory lane, for locals anyway. this shows you what it was like in Dubai before electricity and air-conditioning was became customary. Before modern times, courtyard houses used to be cooled by wind towers, which remains a common feature in Arabian construction, whether it’s a hotel or villa in Dubai.

You may have high expectations when you’re planning to rent a holiday villa in Spain.

There is no dispute that a holiday villa in Spain conjures up a taste of luxury, but in reality at times things may smmetimes be completely different.

Many Spanish villas are quite old and are in need of some attention. It is therefore important to be mindful that when renting a villa in Spain that you do not book an old run down villa that could ruin your entire holiday.

When booking holiday accommodation in Spain, it important to see as many photographs as possible before you get commit to the actual booking. It is equally important to request photos of the interior shots of the villas, particularly the kitchen, the lounge and the master bedroom where you will be spending most of your time. There is a huge choice of holiday villas in Spain available for holiday rentals, therefore there is no way that you should compromise on a villa that is in sub standard condition.

Before you finally comit to booking you spanish villa, you should also gain an understanding of the layout of the floor and rooms. If you have young children, make sure that their bedrooms are close to your bedroom.

Be aware that some Spanish villas have rooms which rooms can only be accessed from outside. However, you may decide this option is preferable, if you have teenagers for example.

Arrangement of beds actually plays a vital pat of your villa booking, the visitors could be a couple, a family or a group of golfers and each party has their own set of special sleeping arrangements. Your best bet is to always request how many single and double beds the villa comprises, to avoid any embarrassment on arrival, especially if you group contains relatives and friends.

An important consideration would be figuring out the proximity of market and availability of necessary items. Make sure that you’re arrive at your rented accommodation during the day as you may face problems locating the villa, especially if it is located in the countryside. It is possible that the roads are poorly signposted. Go straight to your villa and indulge in any sightseeing later on. Make sure that a car rental services available near villa so that it does not become difficult for you to hang out or go to the market to buy necessary items.

In case you are travelling with a family, make sure you enquire about the security of the villa in Spain. The newer and more modern developments of villas in Spain are secure gated communities, and are the preferred option when travelling with young children.

Finally, make sure you obtain necessary information about the local important emergency numbers in the unfortunate even that there is an emergency or a member of your party requires medical attention. Make sure that the basic amenities are available all around your holiday villa in Spain.

Paul enjoys stays in self catering holiday villas and holiday apartments during his travels for both business and pleasure throughout Europe and Middle East and manages a number of holiday rentals worldwide at holidayrentalcentre.co.uk.

The city of Dubai is situated directly on the Arabian Gulf and formerly enjoyed long established trade route connections with the Far East and India. In 1966 oil was discovered and the region’s growth rocketed once exports began approximately 3
years later.

The UAE was originally founded in 1971, when the leaders of Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Fujairah, and later the next year, Ras Al Khaimah, joined together to form a federation. Today, Dubai’s huge wealth and continuous expansion is overseen entirely by the leading family of Dubai, which is headed by Sheikh Maktoum bin Rashid al-Maktoum, the ruler of the UAE, who is also Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE. Sheikh Zayed of Abu Dhabi is the current President of the UAE.

The Building of Dubai

Dubai is currently building and creating an exciting new city at a faster rate than is seen anywhere else in the world. The massive construction of new road and inter-change layouts seem to engulf more of the desert each day, along with newer and more spectacular resorts hotels, theme parks, shopping malls and golf courses. It seems that Dubailand aims to be the Middle East’s Orlando.

Residential house building is also mushrooming around the city, partly to accommodate the growing contingent of Arab workers, professionals, ex-patriates and their families and other specialist workers who are needed to expedite the inspired developments. There is also an urgent need to accommodate thousands of tourists and business visitors who are flocking to experience the city-life that Dubai is offering – many of whom are seeking self-catering villas and apartments.

With the creation of a new airport terminal and the Dubai-Metro both currently under construction, access into and around the city will soon enrich the lives of residents, key workers and tourists alike.

Building off-shore, Palm Jumeirah has recently received its first residents in the newly completed apartments that line either side of the entry trunk-road. Those with views looking towards the famous Burj Al Arab, also benefit from a beach-front location with beautiful landscaped gardens and their own beach-club. Luxurious Villas, hotels and other facilities are still currently under development.

Dubai employs thousands of foreign building workers and service industry workers that are housed within labour camps built around the city or who live in share rooms in residential accommodation. A high proportion of these workers are involved with the Dubai’s developing construction work, general city maintenance, transport, tourism, retail shopping and catering outlets and also taxi driving.
Getting there

Daily flights are available from most international airports around the world, with Emirates being a leading national airline of the UAE and a preferred carrier by many. Onward travel is easy too, there are multiple choices of car rental, taxi or limousine pick-ups available. Actual travel times around the city can vary according to the arrival time and day of your flight, or if you need to travel during peak periods. As yet there are no road-tolls to pay throughout the city, but the first one is planned for July this year.

Hotels & Entertainment

Dubai is proud of its reputation in offering the largest selection of top class hotels anywhere in the world. The world’s first self proclaimed 7-star hotel, The Burj Al Arab, sitting majestically on the edge of the Gulf like an ‘iconic’ statue, is renowned for sublime luxury, style and quality that you’ll find nowhere else! The hotel, built on a small island and reached by a short ‘security monitored’ connecting bridge, is a spectacular and well known landmark with its own high level helicopter landing pad, kept busy ferrying celebrities and business executives to and from the airport. It dominates the skyline and is believed to be the most photographed hotel by visitors to Dubai. A fleet of chauffeur driven Rolls-Royce limousines is also on hand for those celebrities and guests requiring this level of service.

Dubai has over 40 five-star hotels, some with between 5 and 15 restaurants. All these hotels offer stylish accommodation at a range of levels for comfort and size, from individual deluxe rooms through to luxurious high-grade suites with some offering superbly positioned private ‘beach villas’. You’ll find that alcohol can only be served in Dubai from licensed hotel restaurants so the choice is endless, with opportunities to experience the highest quality dining and speciality cuisines available, together with top quality wines from around the globe.

Shopping

Modern Dubai is creating some of the most lavish and culturally interesting shopping Malls ever to be seen. One of the largest so far, is the ‘Mall of the Emirates’ located adjacent to the Sheikh Zated Road and adjoins the five-star Kempinski Hotel. It’s a huge and quite lavish Mall with glass lifts and escalators to all floors. There are many popular retail outlets, home furnishings stores, a multi-screen cinema, and larger stores such as Harvey Nicholls, Debenhams, Sacks and Fifth Avenue, all selling top name branded items and gifts. You’ll find plenty of facilities, numerous restaurants and eateries on all of 3 levels. The Mall is also home to Ski-Dubai, where shoppers can eat or drink while watching friends ‘perform on snow’ in this huge indoor ski resort. It even includes a challenging ‘black’ run. Car parking is easy, safe and well illuminated, with valet-parking also available.

Further along the Sheik Zayed Road towards Jebel Ali you’ll find the largest shopping Mall in the Middle East. The Ibn Battuta Shopping Mall, is based around the travels of the well known 14th century explorer, Ibn Battuta. He covered over 75,000 miles during his life, while visiting far away lands. The mall comprises of 6 individually themed Courts, each displaying the respective architecture, visitor information and styling that represents a selection of his travel destinations. Individually named as Andalucia, Egypt, Tunisia, Persia, India, & China, they are intended to combine retail shopping, with multi-cinema entertainment and family activities, making a unique experience reflecting today’s cosmopolitan lifestyle of Dubai.

The Wafi City, surrounded by 3 glass pyramids, provides top-of the- range stylish designer products and stores, plus some home furnishing outlets. There are plenty of individual Gold Souks and bustling stores to be found in Bur Dubai and across the Dubai Creek in Deira. Karama is a shopping centre in itself where you’ll find some convincing imitation designer goods which are not always available on show, by law, but are worth asking to see. You’ll be amazed at the tremendous bargains to be found.

Leisure & Sport

Sunbathing in Dubai around the hotel pool, on the beach or at your private villa, is quite acceptable for holidaymakers, although being a Muslim country, topless bathing is strictly forbidden. Great care should be taken at all times when sunbathing as the temperatures can be exceptionally high. Good advice is to drink plenty of water and study all the forms of sun-care precautions.

Dubai offers its visitors and residents a huge range of both active and spectator sports. Although some are seasonal sports only, a popular selection is: Archery, Bowling, Cricket, Cycling, Fishing, Golf, Sailing, Canoeing, Surfing, Scuba Diving, Water skiing, Kite Surfing, Horse Riding, Polo, Snorkelling, Windsurfing, Power Boat racing, Horse Racing, Camel Racing, Dune bashing (in 4×4’s), Football, Rugby, Tennis and Skateboarding.

Each year, the sporting world holds a number of major events and tournaments in Dubai. The temptation of near perfect dry and warm weather, lavish hospitality and the prospect of lucrative rewards certainly help to attract the top performers in their respective fields of sport. This in turn, is steadily increasing the visitor numbers and spectators from around the world.

A typical Sporting Diary could list the following top sporting events.

January: The Dubai Marathon: A Fund raising event for research into Blindness.
February: The Dubai Tennis Championships: The world’s top class competing players.
International Sailing Week Regatta-an exclusive event for 10-17year olds!
March: The prestigious Dubai Desert Golf Classic
March: The Dubai World Cup: The top Horse Racing event for racing enthusiasts.
October: Marlboro desert Challenge: Bikes, Trucks and 4 x 4’s all racing in the desert.
Camel-Racing at it’s best, twice weekly through until next April.
November: Horse Racing Season: at Nad Al Sheba Course (by floodlight)
Dubai Rugby Sevens Tournament: a 3-day event for 16 + teams
December: Powerboat Racing: The World Offshore Championships

A brand new Tiger Woods Golf Course Complex, to be located on 55million square feet of Dubailand, is due for completion in 2009. See Tiger Woods Breaks Ground and Tiger Woods’s Group Breaks Ground on Dubai Golf Course Complex.

Many other sporting events take place throughout the year also, so it’s always best to check prior to making your travel arrangements.

When to visit

During high summer, Dubai hotels offer exceptionally attractive accommodation rates, especially for June, July and August, a time when many expats return home. The weather gets extremely hot and humid during this period, so good advice would be for families with young children to holiday during the cooler months from October through to March.

Business and Finance

Oil rich Dubai, is now a major financial and commercial trading centre which is recognised as the largest business centre in the Middle East. With a glowing economy, a vibrant property market and excellent international trade links, Dubai has gradually transformed itself into one of the most exciting tourist and business destinations in the world. It’s a fantastic and very desirable place to live.

Weather

From October through to late March is generally the best weather in Dubai. It’s when the temperatures are near the seasonal norm and the chance of rain is minimal, generally until late December / January. April onwards sees the rising sun gradually getting a lot warmer and through May and June you’ll often see days with 40 degrees. Throughout July, August and September, the heat has been known to reach into the very high 40’s and beyond, also with high degrees of humidity. Up to date forecasts are available from: www.bbc.co.uk/weather. and at www.weather.com

Paul enjoys holiday villas in Dubai and short term stays in holiday apartments during his travels for both business and pleasure throughout Europe and middle east and also manages holiday rentals .

Over the last 75 years, Dubai has transformed itself from a being a simple ‘pearl-diving centre’ into a powerful international trading hub with impressive worldwide links and an ever changing ethnic identity. With a huge contingent of foreign manual workers from India, Bangladesh and Pakistan and service industry employees mostly from the Philippines, Middle East, Europe and Australasia, it’s not difficult to see why the changing population is increasing so rapidly.

Much of the Gulf region is experiencing extraordinary levels of growth, with the city of Dubai currently being at the fore-front. Although Dubai is intent on creating masses of future development projects for many years to come, it continues to provide the infrastructure to run in parallel. One of the newest development projects is the prestigious Tiger Woods Golf Complex – Al Ruwaya, which is due to open in September 2009. (See more about Tiger Woods Dubai). In reality, the expansion of Dubai is generally geared to causing the minimum of disruption to business, services, residents and tourists as much as possible. Experts seem to agree that Dubai is a unique fusion of both the old and new, and is a leading inspiration for others to ensue.

Dubai Highlights – What it’s really like

If you arrive late at night at Dubai Airport from, say a UK airport, getting through the Arrivals area could well be ‘manic’ with waiting friends and relatives gathered around the main entrance in vast numbers. At least until your taxi finally gets you away. Book an overnight flight to arrive at breakfast-time and you’ll probably find it a very civilised experience and easy to spot those greeting you. First impressions usually count, and on the way to your chosen holiday accommodation or hotel, you’ll see lines of impressive glass panelled hotels and office blocks glistening in the sunshine. During spring and early summer you’re sure to pass some amazing floral gardens that border the interchanges along the Sheikh Zayed Road, their colours will astound you. In the heat of the Dubai desert, you’ll wonder how they can produce such wonderful sights. Get yourself settled in your chosen accommodation and you’ll soon be ready to explore the city, either by taxi or driving your own rental car. As a general guide for getting your bearings, road signs showing Jebel Ali and Abu Dhabi are to the south of the city and signs showing Deira, Bur Dubai, and Sharja are all to the north. There are 3 main city roads that run almost parallel. First there is the Beach road running from a point adjacent to Port Rachid through Jumeirah to the Dubai Marina. The next is the Al Wasl Road which links the Al Bada district to Al Wasl, close to Jumeirah. The biggest and widest road in Dubai, the Sheikh Zayed Road, runs through Dubai right to Abu Dhabi with only a simple name-change to worry about. This busy road is still undergoing upgrading work and some modifications to the existing layout, which is partly due to the current development and construction of the new Dubai Metro system which runs alongside Sheikh Zayed Road with a number of stations en-route.

Where to stay – Desert Hotel, Beach Resort or Private Villa?

Privately owned holiday villas in Dubai are available to rent, and located around the southern and outer fringes of the city. Residential areas such as The Springs, The Meadows, Jumeirah Islands and Arabian Ranches are all well served with plenty of semi and detached villas for short and long term rent. You’ll find many private villas with pools in Dubai but each of the newly built residential developments cater for those without pools by providing several ‘local’ outdoor swimming pools with children’s play areas. Often located in pleasant landscaped gardens and surroundings, they are closely monitored on a daily basis with adequate security staff and lifeguards in attendance.

You’ll find plenty of modern classy beach resorts to choose from, but Dubai is creating an enormous demand for an exceptional new range of ‘sky-rise’ city hotels, that are being built mainly around the business and trade centre areas of the Sheikh Zayed Road. You will need to remember that, because only licensed hotel restaurants are permitted to serve alcohol, they attract business people, tourists and local residents who enjoy the western-style culture of social drinking hours. The popular Shangri-La provides a nightly buffet with an option price that includes alcohol. The Crowne Plaza, Dusit, Emirates Towers and The Fairmont hotels are just a few examples that can boast some individual and ‘stunning’ architectural or design features, whilst also providing several restaurants that offer authentic cuisines from around the globe. Prior booking is always recommended.

In Jumeirah, the Madinat Al Qasar, Jumeirah Beach and the One & Only-Royal Mirage hotels are all firm favourites with previous guests and beach lovers alike. They offer guest rooms with stylish décor and quality finishes combining superb luxury amid ostentatious surroundings. Guests requiring larger suites can opt for a choice of quality room upgrades.

Then, there is the famous hotel, The Burj Al Arab. This is the world’s first proclaimed 7-star hotel, a sail-shaped building that’s also the world’s tallest dedicated hotel. It’s Dubai’s iconic symbol, a major landmark. Being set slightly off-shore, with its own private security- controlled bridge for access, this magnificent hotel enjoys fabulous views over Dubai city, the Arabian Gulf, and now, the first purpose built off-shore Island, called Palm Jumeirah. The Burj Al Arab, meaning Arabian Tower, is an all-suite hotel with cascading waterfalls and computerised water displays that greet you on various levels. All areas exude opulence and boast palatial surroundings, sumptuous furnishings and beautiful Arabic décor. There are numerous lavish gold structures and matching colourful ornamental displays throughout, plus the largest atrium you’ll ever see. Guests are provided with their own personal butler who will tend to your every need. Without even a restaurant reservation, non residents will pay an entry fee to look around, but it’s an absolute must to book a Friday brunch at the hotel’s highest restaurant-Al Muntaha where you’ll see views to die for! Reached by an amazing high speed lift, this wonderful restaurant seems perched like a wedge, but has the most spectacular views over Dubai City and Arabian Gulf. Controversially, a full-height symbol of the cross features in the design at the rear of the hotel. This is only viewable from the sea or if you take a private boat trip around the Palm Jumeirah. Nightly illuminations with changing coloured lasers create a spectacular display for the nearby hotel and Madinat guests. Don’t forget to take the camera!

The nearest desert hotel would be Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa – a luxury spot out among the sand dunes, or Jebel Ali Golf and Beach Resort on the outer fringes of the desert. This resort overlooks Palm Jebel Ali just off-shore, which is currently under construction. It’s much nearer to Dubai, but equally a great place to stay.
For sheer unadulterated luxury try a visit to the Al-Maha Desert Resort & Spa. It’s located part way between Dubai and Al-Ain and has magnificent views of the Hajar Mountains and the surrounding dunes. This elegant and luxurious resort offers a unique and personalised Arabian nature experience. With the focus being on pure nature watching and conservation, it boasts a personal desert guide for your holiday duration, and a personal, heated infinity pool with fantastic views across the open desert. Animals, wildlife and guests all secluded and protected in over 80 square miles of desert conservation. No day visitors and probably no probably no non-guests allowed, this exclusive resort is the ultimate retreat, providing maximum privacy.

Beaches & Parks and the Environment

Whether you stay in hotels or residential accommodation, you will probably want to go to the beach sometime. If you are more interested in Arabic culture and heritage or want to shop in souqs, then Bur Dubai or Deira have city hotels that are ideally located. The Dubai Museum is very interesting, and there are opportunities to take an open top bus tour of the city with an information guide on board. The number one beach choice would have to be Jumeriah. It covers the best location from almost any point you can find along the coast. There are some fantastic views of Palm Jumeirah from The Madinat and Jumeirah Beach hotels own beaches, along with those of the famous hotel, Burj Al Arab.
There are several ‘Public’ beaches – Umm Suqeim beach, Kite beach and other stretches of beach around the The Oasis, Dubai Hilton and Le Meridien Mina Seyahi hotels that are nearest to the Dubai Marina.

Jumeirah Beach Park – being a favourite, gets very busy at weekends, but has a long stretch of sandy beach. It has excellent facilities for children, picnic tables, barbecues and several shop kiosks. Lifeguards are in attendance.
Safa Park – has excellent facilities for all the family. There’s a lake with paddleboats, barbecues, football pitch, waterfall and tennis courts.
Dubai Wildlife & Water-Park Sanctuary – has newly installed viewing platforms for bird-watchers. You may see hordes of pink flamingos which flock to the end of the Creek during winter months.
Creekside Park – has Children’s City, a themed activity centre and children’s museum that kids will love. There is plenty to do for all ages, both educational and creative, where all children can really join in.
Wild Wadi WaterPark – is an excellent water-park that caters for all, plus has some interesting, interconnecting rides. Safety lessons are on offer, and there are gentle rides for small children and nervous parents. With some awesome and scary rides for the bravest, you and your family could be in here quite a while. You’ll be surprised how food and drinks are soon acquired and paid for. It’s all great fun and not to be missed by anyone!

Dubai is generally a very clean city and litter has not become a problem, although the city employs plenty of workers to keep it that way. With increased building work reshaping the original desert and increasing levels of traffic congestion, air pollution has become a major concern. Citizens of Dubai create huge volumes of waste, but new recycling centres have now opened around the city to help cope with it. Off-shore oil spillages have forced government agencies to act, monitor and control sea pollution which threatens marine life and could also seriously damage essential desalination plants that the city depends on.

Shopping in brief

Dubai has a wealth of shopping facilities that you will find hard to beat almost anywhere else on the planet. During June is when the stores start their sales, usually lasting for a month, and all with massive reductions.
The Mall of the Emirates – adjoins the 5-star Kempinski Hotel. It’s a huge Mall with escalators to all floors. There are excellent facilities and plenty of restaurants on all levels. Parking is easy, safe and well illuminated. The Mall is also home to Ski-Dubai, one of the worlds largest indoor ski resorts.
Ibn Battuta – named after the 14th century discoverer, is a large single storey Mall with individually Arabian themed areas including lots of facilities, restaurants and a multi-screen cinema.
Wafi City – provides top-of the- range stylish designer stores and products, plus some home furnishing outlets. Excellent facilities are provided throughout.
The BurJuman Centre – a newly transformed Mall with exclusive designer shops and boutiques.
Souqs – Bustling Souqs in Bur Dubai and Deira, offer gold, jewellery and Arabian antiques along with clothing, textiles and designer souvenirs, often sold at a fraction of normal retail cost. A selection of souqs can also be found at Karama and the Madinat.

Driving

Dubai has no real public transport system in place yet, so the best way to travel is usually by car. Although the traffic is increasing rapidly and hold-ups do occur, it’s generally the easy way to navigate your way around the city. Visitors must now obtain a current International Driving Permit (IDP) which is a strict requirement for all car rentals. They are available throughout the UK, from main post offices. Renting a car in Dubai does carry certain restrictions, so driving to or through other Emirates may not be possible and it is therefore best to confirm this when booking.

Religion & Culture

Dubai is still a Sheikh-dom and the Al-Maktoum family rulers are treated with total and utmost respect. Being an Islamic society, the UAE places certain restrictions on what can be displayed in public and what can not. Baring some parts of your flesh is strictly forbidden, and public displays of affection may also be frowned upon, so it’s best to always dress conservatively and to familiarize yourself with Arab etiquette before you travel. Muslims take their religion very seriously and needing to pray up to 5 times a day is not uncommon, even if it means stopping their lorry on the roadside to find a place to kneel. It is widely believed that anywhere in the city, you are rarely more than 500 metres from a Mosque, from where you may regularly hear the Muezzin’s familiar call to prayer.

Dubai’s tolerant and modern life-style helps promote it as a safe and exciting destination for tourists. It blends well with society in general and is where both nationals and visitors co-exist quite amicably. Religion and tradition dictate much of the Emiratis way of life, like daily routines, personal relations and even what and where they eat and drink.

Best time to go

The United Arab Emirates lies directly across the Tropic of Cancer, meaning warm and sunny winters, but hot and humid summer months. Although everywhere is air-conditioned, sound advice is for families with young children to holiday during the cooler months from October through to April. Visit anytime from November to March and you’ll be sure of beautiful sunny weather most days. There is some rainfall in winter, but it would probably be very little, no more than just a short brief shower that quickly clears up. During the summer, Dubai hotels offer some exceptionally attractive accommodation rates, especially for June, July and August when many foreign workers return home for their holidays. To prevent dehydration, it’s recommended to drink plenty of bottled water and at regular intervals – 2 to 3 litres per day is quite normal, and keep in the shade as much as possible. Remember the sun is very powerful even if you can’t see it, so wear a hat when outside and use lots of high factor sun creams.

Dubai is a dream holiday destination. There’s so much to see and do, with stylish hotels and resorts, luxury villas and apartments to rent, great restaurants to dine in and numerous shops and local attractions to visit. Enjoy it, Emiratis do.

Paul enjoys holiday villas in Dubai and short term stays in holiday apartments during his travels for both business and pleasure throughout Europe and middle east and also manages holiday rentals .

You are probably feeling the pinch right now with the global recession still at the fore front of everybody’s mind, but there are many things you can do to avoid the doom and gloom and ease the pain – such as a quick escape from the stresses of work and the economy and go for a well earned holiday this August bank holiday weekend.

Not too late to make plans for August Bank Holiday.

It seems that many owners feel more comfortable choosing to stay in England for this August bank holiday, while reports suggest that a decreasing number of people are not electing to travel to Europe, but stay locally within the UK. It is reported that this is a temporary decision by many visitors and comes as in the light of many flight disruptions, risks of air strikes and airlines going bankrupt. It seems the safest and cheapest option right now, is to stay at home or enjoy self catering holiday accommodation in England for the Bank Holiday weekend.

There are many places to visit in UK, whether it’s England, Scotland, Ireland or Wales and you can book your preferred holiday accommodation online or with a travel agent. For the families, there are many choices in favour of the children, there are many theme parks and adventure packed day trips that are sure to be within close proximity to your chosen holiday accommodation.

You can elect for the peace and tranquility of lakes and mountain resorts, or head to the beach and hope the weather will be kind to you. But, either way set yourself a budget and stick to it for your entire August bank holiday.

There are many festivals that youngsters can enjoy this August Bank Holiday, but the roads will be busy so make sure you allow plenty of time to travel to your destination. And the advice is only travel on the roads if you absolutely must.

There are plenty of places, in particular designed for the children to enjoy, like puppet shows, horse riding, and theme parks. For the grownups, concert, festivals, events, craft markets and cooking demonstrations and shows.

So those of you would like to do a little something special over the August Bank Holiday, it can be on a budget when you explore England and the UK countryside. Whatever you do this August Bank Holiday, it may prove to provide you with a lifetime of memories.

Paul enjoys stays in self catering holiday rentals in England during his travels for both business and pleasure throughout Europe and manages a number of holiday rentals worldwide.

You can read all of the Germany travel guides but they all recommend different places to visit but the guide may not always help. There are numerous famous places that are worth visiting after you book your holiday accommodation in Germany.

Whether it’s historic or modern culture, Germany is sure to never disappoint its tourists. From entertainment to adventure, Germany is well set to ensure you come back and visit time and time again.

1) Cologne Cathedral

Located at the banks of River Rhine, the Cologne Cathedral in Germany is alleged to be the most visited tourist attraction of Germany. The cathedral is over 600 year old and has magnificent architecture to see, reflecting Gothic style. The Shrine of the Three Magi, the most sacred place of the cathedral, is a brilliantly coated tomb. It is believed by locals that the remains of the Three Wise Men are kept here. To gain access to the cathedral you must climb 500 steps, if you want to reach the summit of the south tower. When you eventually arrive, you will see the most spectacular panoramic view of the city.

2) Neuschwanstein

Built by King Ludwig II, this world famous castle proudly stands adjacent to the fantastic setting of the Alps in the southern part of Bavaria. Neuschwanstein happens to the be the most well regarded fairytale castle and is frequently visited by many tourists in Germany. Neuschwanstein was designed during the medieval periodand the most fascinating fact is that this castle inspired Sir Walt Disney to base his magic kingdom on this, and the ever so popular Disney Castle was built on this spectacular Bavarian sight.

3) Heidelberg Castle

Located in south-western Germany, a visit to this very charming city of Heidelberg really should not be missed. This castle ranks among many of the most fantastic attractions of the world and also within Germany. Heidelberg which, houses Heidelberg Castle is beautiful. The castle stands proud in the heart of a medieval castle complex. The picturesque quaint town is stunning.

4) Checkpoint Charlie

Established in 1962, Checkpoint Charlie was a border crossing point. The most popular attraction about this place is the “Haus am Checkpoint Charlie” Museum, which accommodates the history of the Berlin Wall and the partition of the city exhibition. All of the original artifacts that were used historically, are showcased in the museum.

5) Saxony Switzerland

One of the most visited places of Germany is The Saxon Switzerland National Park. Here, the beauty of the place and its scenery will steal your heart and imagination. Do not forget to take your camera, there are magnificent views of the rock needles, cliffs and deep gorges which make a perfect picture photo.

6) Black Forest

Known as Schwarzwald in Germany, The Black Forest is said to be the most popular tourist attraction located located in south west of Germany. There are amazing views of dense forests, mountains and waterfall – don’t forget your camera.

Paul enjoys stays in self catering holiday villas and holiday apartments during his travels for both business and pleasure throughout Europe and Middle East and manages a number of holiday rentals worldwide at holidayrentalcentre.co.uk.

Holiday Rental Centre offers FREE holiday rental advertising. This promotion is for a limited period only to encourage a better choice of properties onto the market.

Despite a current recession, many property owners realize it is still possible to attract holidaymakers who are still making bookings for self catering holiday rentals in UK and worldwide destinations. Why not advertise holiday rentals FREE.

Free holiday rental advertising is the ‘risk-free option’ to property owners. There are many choices for owners to promote their properties, but generally no honest guarantees exist, that proves advertising will provide value for money or even guarantee results. Whilst owners want a return on their investment, they also want to see results. That’s why Holiday Rental Centre offers FREE holiday rental advertising and only want to provide enquiries to owners properties.

Advertise your holiday accommodation free. Create your advert today – it’s very simple and completed in a few minutes. Only basic computer skills are needed and if you required, we can also help input your property details if you wish. Simply create your own holiday rentals advertisment online today, and you can also offer from many other benefits free:

- Free holiday rental advertising
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To ensure YOUR holiday rental property gets maximum exposure, why not create your own advert today. You can advertise your holiday accommodation for an unlimited period FREE. Your property advert will be seen by millions of visitors around the world – and right now we are witnessing a significant interest for holiday homes in particular regions and this is why Holiday Rental Centre are looking to expand on their portfolio of properties in order to meet the current demand of enquiries being made by visitors.

With expert SEO knowledge Holiday Rental Centre rank consistantly highly for popular holiday related search terms in all major search engines. Holidayrentalcentre.co.uk delivers highly qualified traffic to the site, leading to a number of genuine property enquiries. Advertise holiday rentals FREE today – and have your property exposed to millions of internet visitors across the world! Check out Holiday Rental Centre now.

Spread around most areas of Bangkok, is a city which may have some government issues that unsettle many, but is still a city of streams which depict a canal at the central plain of Thailand.

The Mae Klong, the Chao Phraya and the Tha Chin are all three rivers that contribute to a huge flow of water through to the city’s klongs. You can come and experience a tour around many of the klongs in Bangkok and is sure to leave you breathless.

The klongs have been in existence for many decades and are protected by the locals, who regard them as a passage of life. Along these klongs is where many people seek their livelihood from and they live among these valued waters that continue to flow through their everyday lives.

Going back to ancient times, klongs were used by locals for transportation and its people used them to travel from one street to another. Also, the locals used the waters as floating markets where all locals could come and sell their produce. As the decades passed, many of these klongs dried up and eventually becamse streets. However, in the Thonburi region of Bangkok, the Phraya River is known to still be a large area comprising several of these klongs that are not only used for transportation but are a tourist attraction.

When you arrive at klong, you will be stunned by its beauty and colour. A number of boats will be seen anchored along the coast of the stream which can be rented and allow you to begin your adventure along the streams of Bangkok. You are sure to be attracted by the traditional markets that are scattered around the klongs. and also the many temples which are the foremost fascinations of the klongs. It is recommended to take a boat along the waters and is sure to be an opportunity of a lifetime.

Visitors seeking a perfect trip in Thailand, should also consider the luxurious accommodation in Bangkok that is available in hotels or and include luxury spa’s or go self catering where you can be totally flexible.

Paul enjoys stays in self catering holiday villas in Thailand and holiday apartments during his travels for both business and pleasure throughout Europe and Middle East and manages a number of holiday rentals worldwide at holidayrentalcentre.co.uk.

Situated in an excellent location, mid-way between Lake Geneva and Morzine, lies the pretty village of La Baume. There are lots of ski chalets and holiday apartments here that seem busy with holiday-makers all-year, probably because La Baume has much to offer both summer and winter visitors.

In summer you can try your luck at trout fishing in the River Dranse or in the nearby Lake Jotty, You could try hiking up the easy trails to Mount Billat, which at almost 1900mts is blessed with some of the regions most amazing views. You can see the historic chapel Nifflon, and the Pleney mountain-countryside in all its splendour. If you enjoy honey, then the signs will route you past the bee keeper’s chalet, where his splendid mountain preserve is bound to tempt you for a pot or two.

In winter, ski chalets for rent in France are rarely vacant for long, especially in the pretty hamlet of Les Esserts de La Baume, or better known Vallee d’Aulps and Portes Du Soleil, which are easily accessible from Morzine or Lake Geneva.

The French Alps mountain resort of Morzine has the most stunning alpine scenery amid pine-clad forest peaks. The ‘Savoyard’ village has retained plenty of original charm and appeal, but visitors can still enjoy the modern restaurants, amenities and shopping facilities during their stay.

Getting to the French Alps and in particular resorts around Morzine is easy from the UK, If you take your own car, driving to La Baume takes approximately 8-9 hours from Calais. However, flying from your local airport using one of the popular ‘low-cost’ airlines can be a trouble-free way of starting your holiday, and could reduce the overall journey time by a couple of hours if you then hire a simple family-sized car on arrival at Geneva airport and take the 1 ¼ hour’s drive to reach Morzine.

Paul enjoys stays in self catering holiday villas in France during his travels for both business and pleasure throughout Europe and middle east and also manages a number of holiday rentals worldwide.