Touring Caravan Safety Tips

By Nicola Bullimore

Going for weekend breaks or holidays in a caravan can safe a lot of money in comparison to paying for hotels and eating out and since the credit crunch, more people are looking around to purchase a caravan for their recreation away from home.

Since there are alot of newcomers to the caravan scene, it is always wise to look around for tips on how to ensure the safety of those venturing out for a holiday break in a caravan. Here are some basic steps that can be taken to maximise safety and security of the caravan.

The last thing anyone wants during a break in a caravan is leaving the caravan at risk from being stolen whilst you are out and about. There are security devices especially made for caravans. Some caravans may already have security devices installed, however for those that don't, this should be something considered to prevent your caravan from being stolen.

Placing security stickers on a caravan can warn thieves that security devices are in place which can act as a deterrent when someone comes along to steal a caravan.

Wheel clamps and hitch locks are also basic devices which heighten the security of a caravan. When looking around for wheel clamps, you need to ensure that you buy the correct fit and are properly locked which also adds to the prevention of a caravan being stolen.

Towing a caravan is possibly the main area of safety when people are new to caravanning, so here are a few things to check before you take your caravan on the road.

First of all, you want to make sure you have a caravan which can be towed by your car. Ideally, people would check with their car manufacturer to determine what weight the car can safely pull. Pulling the correct weight can prevent numerous hazard possibilities such as road swaying and tipping, so before going on the open road, always ensure you have the correct car to caravan weight ratio.

You also want to make sure the breaks on the caravan are well maintained, so have a trained mechanic check the breaks on a caravan to ensure the safety of your trip. Remember also that when towing a caravan, your car will take longer to accelerate and stop. Ensure there is enough stopping distance between you and the car ahead since it will take a little longer than usual for your car to stop.

Placing heavy weights over the axel can also help to ensure the stability of the caravan whilst it is on the move, but take into account the weight allowance which your car can safely pull.

Other basic tips to maximise the safely of a caravan during the journey as well as when the caravan is static will include such things as installing a smoke detector and having a fire extinguisher.

When considering which caravan to purchase, have a list of things that you require for safety, and for the things that are not currently present, such as alarms, fire safety, you can purchase these accessories to maximise the safety of your caravan holiday or weekend break.

Nicky Bullimore has been writing articles on various topics for a number of years. Find out more on Touring Caravans Bristol and Caravan tips from Bailey Touring Caravans UK

Visit the Bure Valley Steam Railway on Boating Holidays in the Norfolk Broads

By Dipika Patel

If you're a fan of natural settings and enjoy being close to stunning countryside scenery on holiday, you're sure to find a boating holiday in the Norfolk Broads gives you just the opportunity you're looking for to get close to nature.

England boating breaks in the region are popular among Britons as well as visitors to the country as the area offers 125 miles of navigable waterways in truly beautiful surroundings. The broads are a fantastic location for UK boating holidays because of their lock-free design and close proximity to the rivers Bure, Ant, Thurne, Yare, Chet and Waveney, as well as to rural villages and bustling towns and cities.

Whatever kind of boating holiday in the UK you're looking for, you're sure to find it on the broads. Whether you want to relax and unwind on the water and visit secluded hamlets to explore history and stock up on supplies, or if you prefer being close to the action in thriving cities like Cambridge, the broads have it all.

As you travel across the waterways in the area, you'll come across all kinds of attractions to visit in each of the locations you pass through. A great place to stop off on a day trip if you're looking to enjoy the scenery of the broads is the Bure Valley. Located in the historic town of Aylsham, near the source of the River Bure, the valley is home to one of Norfolk's most famous railways.

Stretching between Aylsham and Wroxham, the Bure Valley Railway is Norfolk's longest narrow gauge steam line and covers 18 miles on a round trip. If it's beautiful scenery you're after, this is the place to find it, as your steam train will carry you through the rural landscape and stop off at three villages on the way.

Between the beginning of April and the end of October, at least three trains run per day - both steam and diesel - while the rest of the year sees the railway operate special events. The attraction is a great place not only for nature lovers and train spotters, but also for children, who will love the diminutive size of the engines as well as some of the events held throughout the year - in particular the trips to visit Santa in his grotto.

There is also a model railway shop on site, so browse the goodies and maybe pick up a treat for a little one who loved the train ride and would like a memento of the journey to treasure forever.

The historic railway was built on the track bed of the former Great Eastern Railway line, which ran between Wroxham and the junction of the Dereham to Wells-next-the-Sea railway at County School. You'll take in the sight of the River Bure as you travel, as well as the footpath that runs directly next to the railway for its entire length.

If you fancy some exercise during your boat holiday, you might decide a walk along the purpose-built footpath is a great way of doing just that while enjoying the countryside landscape. You could even rent a bicycle and ride the whole nine miles if you choose, but if you prefer to keep things more low key, ride to one of the local villages, where you can alight or board the train for the rest of the journey.

If you travel the entire stretch by rail, you'll stop off briefly in the three hamlets - Brampton, Buxton and Coltishall - where people can alight or get off the train. Once you've completed your journey, you might like to visit the villages in greater depth.

Brampton was once a thriving manufacturing centre in Roman times and has a picturesque round-tower church for visitors to admire, so pay a visit to find out more about the area's history. Buxton also has traces of being a Roman settlement and is known as the home of Black Beauty author Anna Sewell. Here you'll also find some stunning 17th century architecture. Meanwhile, Coltishall has a charming thatched village church and a famous RAF base, so explore at your leisure.

Once you've exhausted the railway and surroundings villages, you're likely to be glad to return to the comfort of your boat for the night, where you can plan the rest of your boating holiday on the broads. If you want to call in at thriving cities you'll find places like Cambridge not too far away, while seaside locations like Great Yarmouth are also within reach. Whatever you want to do, you'll find a wealth of opportunities on the Norfolk Broads.

A UK boating holiday is a great way of exploring the Norfolk Broads. And with boating holidays in the Norfolk Broads widely available, you're sure to find something to cater for your needs on an England boating break. Check out Le Boat for a wide selection of boating holidays in the UK.

Why a Holiday in the UK is Better Than Going Abroad

By Mike Del Maggio

Seaside holidays are becoming increasingly popular in the United Kingdom mainly because of the latest economic crisis to hit the world. Venturing abroad can be quite costly and involves a lot of hassle and planning whereas a trip to a local seaside town will save you a fortune and cut out the stress.

So why do people chose a British seaside holiday over a cruise or a few weeks abroad? This is quite simply because some areas of the British Isles have wonderfully kept beaches and luxury hotels with plenty of activities to keep you occupied, including days out to local attractions and quaint pubs that line the promenades.

If the weather is good these holidays can beat going abroad, soaking up the sun on a white sandy beach at the peak of summer is what it's all about and such places like Bognor Regis are said to have more sunshine than any other seaside resort in the UK. If sunbathing isn't for you take a dip in the clean fresh sea or walk along the promenade enjoying an ice-cream as you take in the sights and sounds of the area.

Accommodation at UK seaside holidays are also varied and you will find hotels and guest houses spread right across the sea front so the worry of not finding the perfect place or being able to get a booking isn't a problem, you will always find a place to stay and a friendly smile to greet you.

With any British holiday you can't beat fish and chips and at places like Bognor you will be in heaven because the nearby fishing harbour brings in some of the finest high quality fish in the country giving you the opportunity to really enjoy your meal.

Mike Del Maggio is a occasional writer who pens occasional pieces on Financial issues, whilst working on behalf of Butlins Bognor Holidays in the UK.

Enjoy a Dance Holiday in the UK - It's Simply Wonderful

By Caron J Rose

A dance holiday in the UK is a great way to become immersed in the ever-popular hobby and pastime of dance. Throughout the country you can find companies and organisations staging a dance holiday. Dance holidays are a great way to meet like minded people, offering you a chance to hone up those dance stepping skills.

What can you expect from a dance holiday? Organisers of holidays focussed around a dance theme have had years of experience. They know their market, and they know that Britons love dancing. In fact, it's one of the fastest growing pastimes in the country.

No doubt TV programmes like Strictly Come Dancing have played their part in raising awareness in the exciting and exhilarating world of dance. However, a dance holiday UK style can feature modern dance or exotic dance as well as ballroom dancing.

A dance holiday UK style is likely to feature all the best things that an ordinary holiday will. The hotel will usually be of a high standard, often four stars, and you can expect full room and board. There may be dance workshops where the finer points of dance routines will be taught and demonstrated by experts. The days may feature excursions to local places of interest, but the nights will always be reserved for dancing.

The dance holiday UK dancers still prefer the most is ballroom dancing. There's something about the foxtrot, the quickstep and the Viennese waltz that line dancing, break dancing and pole dancing just don't have. It's most likely so because ballroom dancing is social dancing, as opposed to modern free style dancing where it's often the case that having a partner is optional.

Social dancing became popular in the Middle Ages throughout Europe. Ballroom dancing, in a form that would be recognisable today, started around the 16th century and initially was reserved for the noble classes. Ordinary people performed folk dancing, a rougher and coarser form of social dance that was looked down on by the people in the upper classes.

There's one major benefit to be gained from social dancing that dance holiday UK dancers probably don't think too much about, and that's the health benefits. Most people dance for the sheer fun and enjoyment of it, but there are also many health benefits that make dancing one of the best all round pastimes you can have.

If you like walking, or even jogging, dancing can be every bit as beneficial from an exercise point of view. An evening of dancing will burn off as many calories as a good long walk, or a medium jog and you'll have a lot more fun doing it too.

Dancing, especially social dancing helps to relieve stress. It also helps to reduce the risk of heart disease. It can lower high blood pressure and it can be great for keeping your weight down too. A dance holiday can be surprisingly affordable. Britain is still a great country and most of us have barely travelled over it. Why not combine a love of dance with the chance to explore this wonderful country? Go on a dance holiday and expect to have a great time.

Caron J Rose
Ballroom Dance Holidays

Creating a Valentine Retreat That Won't Break the Bank

By: Jennifer Harmon

With Valentine's Day around the corner, I wanted to share a few tips about maximizing the love zones in your home. Sure, it would be nice to run off for a weekend retreat that includes a hot tub, but that option is not always cost effective. Let's focus on the two major romantic areas of a home: the master bedroom and bathroom. In this article I will explain how a few home-staging tips can dress up your love nest for the Heart Day holiday. Adding ambiance and pizzazz doesn't have to cost a fortune.

Greenery can go a long way in the bathroom. You can stop by your local craft store or even a retail outlet such as a Ross Department store and pick up some greenery items. For example, consider an artificial orchid in white or pink tones that can be placed in the corner ledge of the bathtub. Also think about a small potted vine or ivy for a shelf or the toilet tank lid. This will soften up the room and add a soothing effect. The next great step is to add candles. These can already be in your home, or you could buy tea candles from Target. To create a spa look, purchase white candles. Place them around the room, the counter, any shelving, line the tub sides and even group them on the floor in a safe area that won't impede getting into the tub.

While you are out shopping, consider picking up a few oversize white bath towels. Roll them up and place them in a basket located conveniently near the tub for your loved one. Another way to show your appreciation is to run her/him a relaxing bath. Bath salts or bubbles can be found in beautiful basket displays at retailers such as Target, Wal-Mart or even your local drug store. Or if your budget is tight, most women have bubble bath hiding in the linen closet or under the sink. If you have children, make sure to clear out all the bath toys before beginning this plan!

The last thing that will help add a romantic feel for this newly created spa atmosphere is music. You can play a CD by a favorite artist or one that has soothing beach sounds. Sound and smell are excellent ways to help us recover from our everyday troubles. You can create a relaxing, beautiful Valentine's Day retreat without leaving home or hiring a sitter by only spending a few dollars. Of course, if you could hire a sitter, I'm sure your significant other would not object!

To create a spa-like retreat in the master bedroom, you can duplicate some of the steps discussed for the bathroom. However, de-cluttering should be the first step. Hang up clothes, put dirty laundry in its place and clear off the dressers. Use as many candles as possible without creating a fire hazard. If your master bedroom is a large area, then purchasing pillar candles in glass containers is a god option. You wouldn't have to worry about the mess of burning wax and they store easily. Pillar candles can be found in any local department store and dollar stores. If you do purchase candles in bulk, make sure that they do not have an aroma that could overpower a room. Also, using music in a bedroom will add to a romantic mood.

To enhance the romantic atmosphere, you can purchase a few throw pillows for the bed. For less than five dollars each, your local Marshall's or Burlington Coat Factory are great places to shop. Select a silk or satin material in warm colors such as gold, red, berry or pale pink. Adding a vase of fresh flowers will also increase feelings of beauty and create a resort-like quality.

However, purchasing flowers during the Valentine's Day rush can get expensive -- roses per dozen have been known to increase to $20 or $30 dollars per dozen. Shop earlier and consider a mixed bouquet instead. Stop by retailers like Costco or Wal-Mart for a more wallet friendly bunch. Lay slippers and your loved one's bathrobe across the bed for a finishing touch so they can prepare for the relaxing spa bath you have secretly waiting for them.

Don't break the bank for your Valentine's Day holiday. Create a lovely, inexpensive space. This will produce memories that will last much longer.

Jennifer Harmon
Delightful Decor Windows & More
(910) 989-3200
http://www.delightfuldecorwindows.com
Helping people create the home interior of their dreams.

Celebrate Valentine's Day on the Isle of Wight

By: Terry Simpshon

The year is almost over and after Christmas, the next big celebration that you need to plan is where to celebrate Valentine's Day.

There are many romantic places in UK you can choose from but if you are working under a limited budget and want to spend it in a nice and quiet place, the Isle of Wight is the perfect place to go.

There are many interesting and romantic things that you can do in the island. Plus the scenic views will make you fall in love all over again. So holidays and short breaks, Isle of Wight, are the ideal Valentine's Day escapade.

Some of the romantic activities you and your loved will enjoy doing in the island include the following:

Eating Out
The flavours of fresh locally produce vegetables, freshly caught seafood and local wines, cider, and beer in the Isle of Wight restaurants are more than enough reason for you and your partner to have a great Valentine's Day on the island.

As part of the island's vision for a more sustainable island by 2020, the island is committed to provide flavoursome, home-grown produce. When you eat at any of the island's restaurant, expect seafood straight from the fishermen's latest catch, locally brewed beer, locally-grown wine, scrummy ciders made from gorgeous Island apples, and tasty organic veg.

Whatever preferences in taste you may have, your senses are surely in for a treat in the Isle of Wight. And regardless of the budget and season you decide to visit, you're guaranteed to find the perfect eating venue - whether it's in a historic inn, a romantic restaurant, or a trendy bistro - everything you're looking for is here.

Chilling out
Nothing is as romantic as spending time with your loved one in a pub or village cafe overlooking the sea.

A perfect Valentines Day getaway in one of Britain's most tranquil retreats, the Isle of Wight is calm, unspoilt, and untamed - all the things you need to wash those stress and worries away. What's even better about Isle of Wight is its accessibility from the mainland - just a short trip by ferry, which can be romantic all by itself!

You can also unwind with some leisurely golf sessions, sailing, or a stroll around the local galleries and vineyards.

Walking the Wight
If you and your loved one are more adventurous types, you can go for a walk on the island's wealth of bridleways and footpaths. The Isle of Wight is reputed for having more footpaths per square mile than any other English county - from short town rails, to the 60 mile coastal path, and circular routes, you're sure to enjoy walking down the lanes, fields and cliffs to take in the island's natural beauty.

for more information on short breaks, Isle of Wight please visit: http://www.islandviewholidays.co.uk/