Orlando Bloom & Miranda Kerr

The Pirates of the Caribbean star and the Victoria's Secret model spent their honeymoon island-hopping between Anguilla, Mustique, and St Lucia. They stayed at the Hotel Viceroy Anguilla for £4,500 a night, where they enjoyed 35 acres of lush tropical gardens, as well as a private pool for just the two of them and spas. A personal butler was always on hand to tend to their every whim.

Megan Fox and Brian Austin Green

Two of Hollywood‘s most gorgeous inhabitants went to the equally gorgeous Big Island of Hawaii for their honeymoon. They stopped at the Hotel Four Seasons Resort Hualalai. HolidayCheckers who have also stopped there have described the hotel as having ´super service,‘ and have given it a 100% recommendation rate.
They have been swimming with dolphins in the waters around Big Island.

Penelope Cruz, Javier Bardem

This Spanish couple enjoyed a luxurious wedding, and spent their honeymoon in the Bahamas. One of the most popular hotels in the Bahamas on HolidayCheck is the Hotel Stella Maris Resort on Long Island. It is described as, ´absolutely beautiful and wonderful‘ by former guests, and would be the perfect resort for celebrating a honeymoon.

Emily Blunt and John Krasinski

The Young Victoria actress got married in style in Villa D‘Este at George Clooney‘s villa, on the banks of Lake Como in Italy. Lake Como has been home to many more stars, such as Versace und Sylvester Stallone, and is highly recommended by HolidayCheck users. The promenade and old town of Como have been highly rated by travellers, with the great views and ice cream parlours topping the lists. The newlyweds then went back to Los Angeles and stopped in West Hollywood for a quick getaway.

Vince Vaughn and Kyla Weber

Celebrating a honeymoon in the Windy City earlier this year, Vince and his new wife stayed in the Knickerbocker Hotel. All HolidayCheckers who‘ve stayed in this hotel recommend it, and the features like best are the great location and impeccable service. Seeing the view of the city from the top of John Hancock tower at sunset would surely make any honeymoon magical.

Contact person for the press
Zoë Loveday
HolidayCheck AG
zoe.loveday@holidaycheck.com

The post Top Celeb Honeymoon Destinations for 2010 appeared first on 12 Press Release.

Belek
Belek is a true Mecca for golfers on the Turkish Riviera. One of the most popular golf hotels here is the Robinson Club Nobilis, which has been recommended by 97% of the guests and was given the HolidayCheck Award in 2010. It is in the heart of the club area, with the famous 18-hole "Park Land Course". A further ten courses are also within easy driving distance. Relaxation is a priority, as one holidaymaker reports: "The spa is highly recommended and a paradise for golfers."

Majorca
The days of Majorca just being full of boozy tourists are over; the golfers have now discovered the popular island. Most sportsmen stay in the Hotel Castillo Son Vida near to the capital Palma. "Pure luxury with sensational service," says one traveller, confirming the 95% recommendation rate for the hotel. The special feature: the three private 18-hole golf courses which are incredibly close to the greens of the championship course Son Muntaner Arabella.

Mauritius
The dream island has more to offer than ´just‘ palm-fringed beaches. For golfers too, the island is a paradise. The Hotel Belle Mare Plage is ideal and recommended by 92% of the guests. Opposite the hotel is its complex "The Legend", adjacent to the hotel's two championship courses. "The golf courses are laid out well, although there are few blind shots," said one enthusiastic golf-playing tourist. Whoever has improved their handicap, can relax in the four pools.

Gran Canaria
This popular Canary Island has been dominated by golfers for years, as it has a total of seven courses which each have their own unique characteristics. The hotel RIU Grand Palace is popular with golfers, as it is situated close to the “Maspalomas” and “Meloneras” courses. Even a coach can be as hired directly from the hotel. The RIU Grand Palace convinced an impressive 79% of its former guests.

Morocco
The spirit of golf has also captured Morocco. The hotel Tikida Golf Palace is the perfect location in the middle of a 36-hole course, ideal for improving the handicap. "For golfers, it‘s a dream," says one holidaymaker. Even non-players will find peace and relaxation and can enjoy themselves. All golfers who previously have stayed here would recommend doing so again.

Andalucia
In the south of Spain next to sandy beige, you can also find places of lush green grass. Golfers there prefer the Hotel Valentin Sancti Petri. The 54-hole golf course Novo Sancti Petri is just a few minutes away. "An improvement in our eyes is just not possible," says one of the tourists delighted with his stay. 94% of hotel guests recommend this house.

Contact person for the press
Zoë Loveday
HolidayCheck AG
zoe.loveday@holidaycheck.com

The post Top Hole! 6 Great Golf Hotels appeared first on 12 Press Release.

Salvarola Hotel Terme ****, Sassuolo, Italy
Surrounded by vineyards, hills and green parks, the Salvarola Hotel Terme welcomes its guests into a relaxing environment. It's the ideal place to recharge your batteries after a long week at work. Within walking distance there is the Balnea Spa, open 7 days a week. Covering over 2300 square metres, it truly is an oasis of wellbeing. The spa has lots of facilities, including pools complete with jets and waterfalls, a sauna, a Turkish bath, four gyms, a yoga area and a beauty salon. If watching the figure is important, take part in the gymnastic courses available, and try the spin bike, the steps, Pilates and boxing. The best feature of the spa is the beauty salon, as it offers innovative treatments based on the traditional cuisine of Modena. The Balnea Spa was one of the first in Italy to offer wine therapy treatment, which uses vines, grapes and their juice in order to prevent skin ageing.

Theresia Gartenhotel ****, Saalbach, Austria
The Theresia Gartenhotel specialises in both the physical and spiritual wellbeing of its guests. The hotel is one of the 54 'Health & Spa' hotels in Austria, which focus on relaxation and balance, healthy eating, movement, fitness and body care. In addition to the usual fitness facilities available, (swimming pool, whirlpool, sauna and massage) guests can also take advantage of mental trainer Doringer Erwin, an expert with over 20 years experience in his field. His programme includes hypnosis (for nicotine addiction, nervousness and stress, and anxiety attacks), exercises for mental wellbeing, personality training, and magnet therapy. Guests at the Theresia Gartenhotel can also enjoy high quality food based on a healthy diet made exclusively from organic products. The hotel holds an 'organic guarantee certificate' and is recognised as having very good organic food.

Hotel Blue Tulum Resort & Spa ****, Tulum, Mexico
Tulum is becoming an increasingly popular resort, visited by international stars such as Drew Barrymore, Anne Hathaway and Sienna Miller. The reason? This destination is located on the beautiful unspoiled coastline of the Mayan Riviera and is a haven of relaxation and "meditation". The beaches of Tulum are renowned for practicing yoga outdoors. The hotel includes over 15,000 square metres of spa facilities, as well as 10 treatment rooms, and a gym. The Hotel Blue Tulum Resort & Spa also specialises in organising weddings and is the ideal place to spend a romantic honeymoon.

Parkhotel Bellevue ****, Adelboden, Switzerland
The Parkhotel Bellevue & Spa is located in the heart of the Swiss Alps in Adelboden. In addition to the spa complete with sauna, heated pool and outdoor pool, the hotel also offers modern sport facilities. There is a 1300m2 gym, where you can take part in a daily exercise program. The program provides lessons in Pilates, gymnastics, and yoga plus many more activities. For those wanting to visit the surrounding region whilst keeping in shape, the hotel offers free rentals of mountain bikes. The hotel kitchen does not provide a standard menu, but instead freshly prepared dishes daily based on the best ingredients available.

Contact person for the press
Zoë Loveday
HolidayCheck AG
zoe.loveday@holidaycheck.com

The post Cleanse Body and Mind in Spa Resorts appeared first on 12 Press Release.

Germany
For whoever enjoys driving, the Autobahnen of Germany are a dream. They are free, four lanes wide, and there is no speed limit. Lorries are also not allowed on the motorways on Sundays, making those morning drives even more delightful. No only that, but there are lots of rest stops and scenic places to enjoy a picnic. Don't expect a gastronomic feast from the service stations however, as the most common restaurant en route is McDonald's.

England
Standing out from the rest of Europe by driving on the left hand side, England also has the fewest miles of motorways within the EU. But, it's quality over quantity, as the English motorways are some of the safest in the EU. There are a few toll roads on which you have to pay, but the majority are free. London is an exception, and when driving in the city centre, you need to pay the Congestion Charge of £8 a day. Despite not being a motorway, one of the most beautiful driving roads is the A57 Snake Pass over the Pennines.

Spain
According to a study from leading Spanish supermarket chain Eroski, the average price per kilometre is 6 pence. Even though the roads go between the different regions, they are in fact run by private companies, and it is these who determine the prices. It is a good idea to compare routes before setting out on a journey, as one may be much more costly than another. The motorways of Vielha and Marchante are among the safest in the country.

Italy
Agip petrol stations, frothy cappuccinos and fresh sandwiches from Autogrill. Welcome to Italy! The price of a journey depends on its length, and whether it goes through the highways or mountains. Although they are still expensive, the average cost is still cheaper per kilometre than on Spanish roads.

Switzerland
In order to be able to drive within Switzerland, you have to buy a vignette sticker. It costs just over £23 and is valid for an entire year. Austria and the Czech Republic also use the vignette system, but the prices are broken down into monthly and also regional prices. The most popular Swiss restaurant is Mövenpick, which translates literally to Seagulls' Beaks. Switzerland was also home to Europe's longest driving tunnel for 20 years; the Gotthard Pass. It stretches for an entire 10 miles through the Swiss mountains.

Contact person for the press
Zoë Loveday
HolidayCheck AG

zoe.loveday@holidaycheck.com

The post If not by Air, by Car. appeared first on 12 Press Release.

London, England
It's nearly time for the world's most famous flower show. The Chelsea Flower Show, also known as, 'the Great Spring Show' opens its doors on the 25 May for four days jam-packed with everything to do with gardens. There are tips on how to grow beautiful flowers, award-winning gardens to look around, which are created by some of the best landscape designers. It is the horticultural equivalent of a fashion show for flowers.

Haarlem, The Netherlands
Famous for its its fields of tulips, the Netherlands plays host to the Bloemencurso, or Flower Parade. Bollenstreek has its 63rd this year on the 24th April. Floats and cars covered in flowers and decorated in unbelievable designs travel down the streets. But if the 24th April is just too far away, then the Keukenhof just south of Amsterdam displays wonderful exhibits of more than 7 million flowers from now until mid-May, along with bike rides and boat trips within the stunning grounds.

Madeira, Portugal
The Madeira Flower Festival celebrates the arrival of spring between the 15th and 18th April this year. They have huge displays of tropical plants at their very best, flower carpets lining the streets. On the morning of Saturday 17th, there is the Childrens' Parade during which the children can bring their own blooms and build 'The Wall of Hope', a perfumed wall made entirely out of flowers. The climax of the festival is a procession of floats and hundreds of dancers, all decked out in their floral glory, who go through the main streets of Funchal.

Chiang Mai, Thailand
In early spring, the town of Chiang Mai in Thailand transforms into a botanic paradise as it has done for decades, deserving the nickname of 'The Rose of the North'. There are stalls from which to sample the delicious local cuisine, and also many shows to watch and enjoy. The star of this festival is the orchid, which thrives in the local climate. There is also a spectacular parade, sponsored by the local businesses, which shows off the beauty of flowers.

Japan
From January to June, you can enjoy the wonder of the Cherry Blossom Festival in Japan, as you can follow the blossoming of the trees through the different regions. The most popular time to go is between March and May. There are cherry blossom forecasts on the television, so you know the best time to take part in a 'hanami', or a cherry blossom party, and traditional meals called 'Bento' are cooked to honour the festival.

Contact person for the press
Zoë Loveday
HolidayCheck AG

zoe.loveday@holidaycheck.com

The post Flower Power 2010 appeared first on 12 Press Release.

Munich Airport
Whether it's a round of golf or a new haircut, Munich Airport can offer it all. Massage treatments and a swimming pool are also available in the Wellness and Beauty Centre, as well as the very popular Biergarten, where drinking the Bavarian beers and eating the local cuisine would almost make you want to miss your flight and spend a few more hours there. There's also the chance for the kids to learn all about the airport and how the air traffic control department is run.

Kuala Lumpur International Airport
Feet always take the brunt of travelling, by walking too much from one end of a terminal to the other, or by wearing heels on long business trips. Kuala Lumpur offers a simple solution; it has its own Reflexology Centre. After a good massage, work can carry on as usual in the exclusive Business Centre, and then the day can be finished off nicely with a workout in the airport's gym.

Vancouver International Airport
If some serious rest and relaxation is needed, head to Vancouver International Airport. It has spas in both the domestic and USA terminals, and its services include manicures, pedicures and thermal hair and scalp treatments. After that, a nice meal and a cocktail can be enjoyed in one of the numerous restaurants and cafes. Should some luxury be called for, the 'Sky High' Bellini cocktail is served exclusively in Vancouver Airport, and it would be a crime to miss out.

Brisbane Airport
If the duty free shops are just not appealing, Brisbane Airport has the answer; there is a free courtesy bus which leaves regularly from the international terminal. It takes passengers with a long transit to a Factory Outlet, where there is a wide range of shops in which you can while away the hours. There is also the chance to visit Brisbane city centre, for those with a longer transit. By hopping on the Air Train from the airport, you can arrive in the centre in under half an hour.

Istanbul Atatürk Airport
This airport proudly boasts one of the world's biggest duty free shops. There is a Grand Bazaar complete with arches and pillars, in which a range of 1,800 Turkish products, including olives, sweet pastries and of course, Turkish delight are sold. When flying from Istanbul Atatürk, there are eight different lounges, where relaxation is the top priority, before having to continue with the next stage of the journey.

Contact person for the press
Zoë Loveday
HolidayCheck AG
+41 (0) 71 686 90 00
zoe.loveday@holidaycheck.com

The post The World’s Best Airports of 2010 appeared first on 12 Press Release.

Croatia
The Mediterranean comes into its own when Spring Break happens.
The Croatian resort of Rovinj is becoming more and more popular as a destination, as people take advantage of the stunning coastlines and good weather. This year, the town has an amazing line-up planned, with the music of some world famous DJ's, as well as concerts, cruises and days on the beach. There's no dress code either; bikinis are the order of the day.

Spain
In 2010, Spain will be one of the most popular destinations. Known to package tour tourists for decades, Lloret de Mar, the night-life capital of the Costa Brava expects more than 8000 visitors this year. Hoteliers and travel operators are taking advantage of this craze by offering numerous all inclusive deals. The town is full of bars, clubs and fast food restaurants and also, its location enables it to offer some great activities, such as numerous types of water sports and golf to name but a few.

Greece
The home of the toga party, Greece is a great place to spend Spring Break. It has lots of opportunities for island and party hopping in its many coves and bays. There, you can book a cruise, and live it up in a different place every night. Days sunbathing on the boat by Kos can be joined by nights sipping cocktails with friends in Rhodes. In spring, the average temperature in Greece is 22°c, so there are few better places to top up the tan this Spring Break.

Italy
Italy also offers more than its fair share of things to do. Lignano Sabbiadoro, which in Italian means 'golden sands' is a city that has everything. Full of bars and clubs, and with an amazing sandy beach, they hold a party every year just for Spring Break which can't be missed.

Mexico
The most popular destination for an American Spring Break is Cancun. Cancun is a party city, where students take advantage of the week away from their studies to escape to hotter climes.
Many tour operators have party programmes, where they offer themed club nights, and give the party-goers wristbands, with which they receive discounts on drinks and club entry for the entire week. Although it can be said that Spring Break in Cancun is just about the night-life, special trips are organised to see historical sites, such as the Mayan ruins, so that every minute of Spring Break is an unforgettable one.

The Turks and Caicos
The Turks and Caicos islands are the ones to watch in the Caribbean this year. They will be filled with holiday makers looking for a good time on the exclusive resorts. The establishments there specialise in spas and luxury, and they offer the Caribbean's very best parties at night time, and opportunities to relax during the day, with some of the world's finest underwater diving sites and pristine beaches.

The post Spring Break Fever is Spreading The New Places to Go appeared first on 12 Press Release.

The Propeller Island City Lodge, Berlin
This hotel might as well be called an artistic object. Everything you will find is custom-made and cannot be found anywhere else in the world. The extravagant decor invites its guests to disconnect from reality and test their sense of adventure! Try sleeping in the upside down room, with furnishings hanging from the ceiling. Or in a bed suspended from ropes- 1.6 metres high.

The Five Hotel, Paris
The innovative decor combines art and originality. If Paris is characterized by a frenetic pace, this place plunges its guests into another world in the heart of the capital. The reception is in fact an art gallery and short films are projected in the elevator. The rooms are decorated with warm colours, playing with the lighting to recreate a peaceful and original atmosphere.

Hotel Fox, Copenhagen
Twenty-one designers around the world have gathered their ideas and genius to create the exceptional interior and dynamics of the 61 rooms at Hotel Fox. Each of them offers a range of scenery from whimsical, childlike magic to eccentric style to a minimalist one. The hotel offers its guests minibar-bags such as the Hangoverbag or the Loversbag, and iPods for rent.

The Scarlet, Cornwall
Created with an eye to Mother Nature, The Scarlet's mission is to mix luxury, sustainability and fun. All the rooms have a stunning ocean view and an individual outside space. Wood-fired outdoor tubs, a deep relaxation room and a eco-friendly indoor swimming pool blur the boundaries between indoors and out.

Nordic Light Hotel, Stockholm
The hotel's mission was to greet customers in a creative and innovative environment. Promise kept. The main element of design lies in the name of this hotel. Guests have the possibility to customise their Mood rooms. They can set the lighting and colours to create the environment of their choice. Relaxation and inspiration guaranteed.

Kruisherenhotel, Maastricht
The Kruisherenhotel is a former monastery dating from the 15th century and has been transformed into an exclusive design hotel. The buildings have been renovated and furnished in a modern and contemporary style while maintaining their original Gothic setting. The rooms are located in the corridors of the old monastery. Guests will experience a journey back in time when entering the church that now hosts exhibitions, a restaurant and a wine bar.

Hi Hotel, Nice
The idea of the creators of this property is a new concept of hotel rooms. They are no longer based on specific thematic decorations, but rather on specific spatial arrangements. Guests feel at home and live in their rooms, thus becoming the setting for micro-events.

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Contact person for the press
Keren Cohen
HolidayCheck AG
+41 (0) 71 686 90 00
press@holidaycheck.co.uk

The post Live and play in the trendiest boutique hotels appeared first on 12 Press Release.

The new website is particularly valuable for the Chinese, who are naturally long-haul travellers
and until today had far too little travel information available in their own language. Among the most popular destinations in Europe are the UK, Germany and Switzerland, although the first hotel review has been submitted for a hotel in Shanghai.

According to a report of the World Tourism Organization, China will become the world's major travel destination within 2015. It will also represent the largest tourist market in the world.

„China is a huge market, we are very happy to offer our products and services to Chinese customers. It is the market of the future and we hope to contribute in making travelling more pleasant for Chinese travellers thanks to our hotel reviews“, says Friedrich von Scanzoni, Managing Director of the International team at HolidayCheck.

Because of the limited number of holidays available, only 10-15 days, Chinese cannot afford to find unpleasant surprises when choosing a hotel. From now on, HolidayCheck will stand for a safe and transparent travel information source.

HolidayCheck expects 100.000 visitors each month. There are currently 1.3 million reviews of over 82.000 hotels spread in 215 countries worldwide. There are also about 1.4 million photos taken directly by HolidayCheck users, a useful complement to the glossy photos submitted by the Hoteliers.
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About us
Founded in 1999, HolidayCheck is one of the largest travel-related internet portals in Europe. HolidayCheck has platforms available in 10 languages and comprises over 1.000.000 hotel reviews, 1.300.000 holiday pictures and 20.000 videos. The company's head office is in Bottighofen, a Swiss city on Lake Constance.

Contact person for the press
Keren Cohen
HolidayCheck AG
+41 (0) 71 686 90 00
press@holidaycheck.co.uk

The post HolidayCheck China goes online and receives its first hotel review appeared first on 12 Press Release.

Italy. Lovers take their time here: Motel K, just a 20 minute drive from Milan, doesn't charge per hour, but for every 10 hours. The themed suites are sophisticated, with marble bathrooms and a fine decor. The Wellness suites are fully equipped with a sauna, jacuzzi or a swimming pool. The Fantasuites are 150m2 rooms which recreate countries such as Thailand or Antigua. They have ares to relax and for chromotherapy. Other themed suites are 'Santorini', 'Amazzonia' and 'Manhattan'.

Spain. Express hotels are also booming in Madrid and Barcelona. You will find discretion and privacy, with covered parking places and direct access to the room. Two good examples are Motelpuntcatorce and Zouk Hotel. The first is located in Gava, five minutes from Barcelona. The rooms are minimalist and modern. Inside guests will find an erotic menu, with choices ranging from sexy lingerie to a set of edible chocolate body paint. The second is half an hour from Madrid. Its logo is a tempting bitten red apple. Both check in and check-out are computerised, so you will avoid meeting the reception staff and having them ask you if you enjoyed your stay.

Vienna. Who would have guessed that rigorous Vienna has a naughty side too? Though perfectly restored, the interiors of the Hotel Orient have been largely preserved, thus maintaining its fin de siècle style. This is the place for lovers who want to experience a return to the period of the Belle Epoque, made of opulence and decadence.

Venezuela. The Caracas Panamerican Highway is also known as the 'Road of Love' and the reason is simple: there are 7 motels where couples can indulge in passion and escape from routine. The Bosque Dorado Hotel, Hotel Las Vegas, Motel Orquidea, Panorama Motel, Hotel Canaima, Hotel Colonial and Hotel La Chaumiere offer by-the-hour rooms, and you won't even have to get out of the car to collect your keys. They have evocative names such as 'Elixir de Amour' and 'Extasis'.

Contact person for the press
Keren Cohen
HolidayCheck AG
+41 (0) 71 686 90 00
press@holidaycheck.co.uk

The post Express hotels, the news alcoves of love appeared first on 12 Press Release.

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Contact person for the press
Keren Cohen
HolidayCheck AG
+41 (0) 71 686 90 00
press@holidaycheck.co.uk

The post Communication blunders: when speaking one language is not enough appeared first on 12 Press Release.

Hotel Magic Life Africana Imperial: Hammamet, Tunisia
This hotel in Hammamet is recommended by 95% of users and has just won a HolidayCheck award for being one of the world's most popular hotels.
There is so much to do, you will never feel lonely. Live music with DJ sessions, diving lessons, tennis, beach volleyball, mountain biking and dancing classes offer plenty of opportunities to meet people. “Fantastic animation team, great shows, awesome atmosphere... The Beach Party was wonderful with fire, etc. Many-many Magic Moments!!!” says Krisztina, a single in her early 30s who travelled with friends. “Superb wellness department, we had a very relaxing 1-hour full body massage. Indoor pool and sauna in bad weather conditions are a great choice.”

Hotel IFA Buenaventura: Playa del Ingles, Gran Canaria
There are nearly 600 hotel reviews of Hotel IFA Buenaventura on HolidayCheck, recommended by 92% of users. The hotel staff calls it an 'EntertainU-Resort', because of the many oppotunities it offers for those looking for fun and action.
Holidaymaker Constance, in her middle 30s, confirms: “The hotel is really appropriate for both socializing and relaxing! There is an activity for everyone, but if you're looking for something different, just take advantage of the hotel's great position...there are plenty of entertainment possibilities even in the surroundings.”

Hotel Fantasia 1001 Nights: Hurghada, Egypt
You will feel like you're in the middle of a fairytale, and not only because of the hotel's architecture. The water park and the wellness centre will also leave guests speechless. Adelaide, mid-50s, says: “It was a holiday in heaven. The large pool was dedicated to entertainment, the other pools were ideal for relaxing. Sports facilities such as mini golf, horseback riding and snorkeling offer the best conditions to get to know other guests. There are also restaurants, bars and a café, the ideal place for sipping a drink in company.” Overall, 92 percent of single travellers recommend the hotel and would definitely go back.

S'Entrador Playa Hotel & Spa: Cala Ratjada, Majorca
This elegant hotel offers anything you could wish for, from a fitness centre and a spa to the island's beautiful landscape. The recommendation rate by singles is 94% and its trend is impoving.
The Oasis Spa offers many opportunities to meet people, like in the whirlpool or in the sauna. Nature lovers may either take part in the many guided group excursions or simply lie on the beach and work on their tan. Hans-Wilhelm, in his mid 60s, praises the excellent food, but not only: “the age ranged between 35 and 70 and the other holidaymakers were a very pleasant company,” he writes in his review.

Hotel Pachmair: Uderns, Tyrol
This is the ideal place for those who want to spend some time in the moutains- alone or with friends. A heated outdoor swimming pool and the breathtaking scenery of the hotel's après-ski bar set just the right scene for flirting.
Holidaymaker Anne, about 70, is enthusiastic: “The excursions were great. There was entertainment every evening. We really felt at home”.
This positive feeling is confirmed by other tourists who stayed there. Hotel Pachmair was also elected one the most popular hotels in the world by HolidayCheck users. It stands out with 99 a percent recommendation rate and promises opportunities to socialize in a relaxed party atmosphere.

Contact person for the press
Keren Cohen
HolidayCheck AG
+41 (0) 71 686 90 00
press@holidaycheck.co.uk

The post No need to feel lonely: holiday destinations for singles 30 and up appeared first on 12 Press Release.

Usually hit by extreme temperatures, Patagonia is the perfect place to visit in January. Temperatures are mild (around 52° F) and the days are very long: the perfect setting for trekking and excursions on the Perito Moreno, the most famous and spectacular glacier in the world!

If you want to travel in February, there's no place like Brazil. The entire month is invaded with Carnival street parties and parades, which are nothing like the European way of celebrating. Since it's high season, be sure to book in time.

In March, Barbados is at its lowest rainfall levels, with temperatures constant at 80° F. The annual Jazz Festival takes place and draws big crowds. Maybe even popstar Rihanna.

In April, Cape Town in South Africa is warm but not too hot, and is at its greenest and lushest. Ask any Capetonian and they will tell you that this period is truly the Cape's best-kept secret: warm, uncrowded and inexpensive.

May is the best month to visit Italy. The Tuscan colli are in bloom and offer a wide range of agriturismi, family-run and convenient accommodations, often with a swimming pool. Enjoy some of the best food and wine in the world as well as breathtaking views. Need we say more?

Curious to know what Midnight Sun is all about? In Sweden, June brings summer and up to 24 hours of sunlight! Hiking in the mountains of Lapland or wandering around Stockholm, not having to worry about the time is a rare adventure something everyone should experience at least once in their lifetime.

July is just about the best month to visit Bali: the rainy season is definitely over and humidity is at its lowest. With world-class surfing and diving, a large number of cultural, historical and archaeological attractions, and an enormous range of accommodations, this is one of the world's most popular island destinations.

Did you know that 'Safari' means travel in the Swahili language? The best period to experience one is in August, as this is when the Mara provides one of nature's most dramatic spectacles, the annual migration of over a million wildebeest and zebras.

In September, Greece is absolutely amazing! The unbearable heat and number of tourists of the high-season period are gone, leaving space for warm weather and cheaper accommodations. This is the time to go to the islands or pay a visit to Athens, have dinner in outdoor restaurants, lie on beaches, climb the Acropolis or to explore the city and the countryside.

If your dream holiday is lying on the beach and relaxing in Mauritius, then October is the right month to go. Warm and sunny but dry, it is not a very touristy season, making it easier to find good deals!

November is a great month to visit Egypt. Whether it is Cairo, Sharm el Sheik or Hurgada, you can't go wrong.

Spectacular scenery, stunning tropical sunsets and warm blue water makes December one of the best months to visit Phuket, Thailand's largest island. It provides an unbeatable combination of perfect palm-lined beaches, superb hospitality and great value accommodation.

Watch out though, because when the eastern coast is having perfect weather, the west side of the country should be absolutely avoided in this period!

Contact person for the press
Keren Cohen
HolidayCheck AG
+41 (0) 71 686 90 00
press@holidaycheck.com

The post Now is the time: HolidayCheck’s travel calendar appeared first on 12 Press Release.

The 'Special Award'
The 'HolidayCheck Special Award' is assigned to hotels in different categories, based on the travellers' opinions. It is conferred on the basis of specific performance and received in addition to the HolidayCheck Award. The most popular hotels in the categories of Food, Family Hotel, Newcomer, and Sports & Entertainment will receive the 'HolidayCheck Special Award'. 'Editor's Choice' is also part of the 'Special Awards' and has been granted to two hotels which have been particularly active with their guests' reviews in 2009. They have promoted exceptional offers, accepted criticism, and improved the quality of their services.

The Ceremony
The HolidayCheck 2010 Award Ceremony will be held on 5th March in Frankfurt am Main. For that occasion, HolidayCheck has organized an international Hotelier Seminar with the title "Tourism 2.0- The guest determines your success". The winners will not only receive their awards, but they will have the opportunity to exchange know-how and development strategies with other representatives of the tourism sector. The event will take place in the spectacular building of Westhafen Pier 1 in Frankfurt. Hoteliers, tourism representatives and tour operators from around the world will be sitting at a round table together with HolidayCheck experts to enhance their products. Participants may register until the 20th January and have the opportunity to be part of the future of tourism.

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HolidayCheck is one of the largest independent European travel portals. Users share their experiences with other travellers by submitting hotel reviews and uploading personal pictures. Hoteliers may also communicate directly with their guests and exchange opinions. Thanks to all this, each holidaymaker has the possibility to make transparent travel choices.

Contact person for the press
Keren Cohen
HolidayCheck AG
+41 (0) 71 686 90 00
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Argentina. The Argentine Andes have several notable ski resorts, with snow from June to October. The landscape is breathtaking thanks to the altitude. Bariloche is considered one of the best ski resorts in South America, but also Valle de Las Lenas, Ushuaia, San Martin de los Andes, La Angostura, Chubut, Copahue Park and Mendoza meet the highest expectations. The Penitentes ski resort, with its 2.580 meters above the sea level, offers 28 slopes spread over 300 hectares. It is near the Aconcagua, part of the Seven Summits (the highest mountains of each of the seven continents) and the highest peak outside Asia.

South Africa. Snow comes first in the Southern Hemisphere. You will be able to enjoy the white cover of Tiffindell ski resort already by the end of May. It was first established to give South Africans the opportunity to ski near their homes. Today the resort has grown substantially, challenging even the most expert skiers. And while the lack of snow is becoming a concern worldwide, Tiffindell has nothing to worry about: last year it saw over 7 metres of snow!

Morocco. For those of you who consider Marrakech a getaway from the cold, looking for winter sun, here are some news: you can have both! The Oukaimeden ski resort is about 40 miles from Marrakech and ninety minutes from the beach. It is part of the High Atlas Mountains which are usually covered with snow in January and February. It is cheap and uncrowded: the ski pass costs 10 Euros, and being largely unknown, you won't have to wait in line at the chairlift.

Japan. Every day, from December to April, trains leave from Tokyo to Mount Fuji, Japan's highest mountain and a symbol of the country. Hakuba resort in Nagano is also very famous for being the host of the 1998 Winter Olympics. But many probably don't know that there are over 600 ski resorts in Japan, the largest number considering the size of the country. The northern island of Hokkaido is the perfect destination for those in search of spectacular deep powder and off-piste runs. Moreover, Japanese hotels in the ski resorts are modern and often located near natural hot springs. Exactly what you need after a long day on the slopes.

Spain is blessed by the sun, and at the same time, criss-crossed by mountain ranges in the north, in the middle, and to the surprise of some, also in the south. The Sierra Nevada is one of Spain's most renowned ski destinations, with over 65 km of ski slopes. It is a major attraction due to its proximity to the sea and to the Alhambra, the best preserved palace of the Arab world. Famous for being the chosen resort of the Spanish royal family, Baqueira-Beret is also beautiful and sunny and has a good snow record. Some pistes have been recently modernized, and offer a wide range of blues and reds for intermediate skiers.

Contact person for the press
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HolidayCheck AG
+41 (0) 71 686 90 00
press@holidaycheck.com

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As one of the oldest cities in the world with an incredible array of architectural monuments, Athens is among the favourite cultural holiday destinations. Unfortunately, the temperature rise may be happening in the Mediterranean faster than anywhere else. It is estimated that Athens will become decidedly uncomfortable by 2020, with summer temperatures soaring above 40 degrees Celsius (104 °F) and with a growing smog concern.

Better hit the slopes at one of the most popular ski spots in the world before it's too late: 2002 and 2003 were the warmest years on record in the Alps in the past 500 years. The most vulnerable areas are certainly low-altitude ski-resorts, notably in the Eastern Alps, such as Kitzbühel in Austria. With just two degree Celsius (35.6 °F) rise in temperature, the natural Alpine resorts in Europe would drop by 200.

The Everglades National Park is the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States. It is also on the brink of changing forever. With a multitude of ecosystems, from pinelands and sawgrass prairies to hardwood hammocks and cypress swamps, the Everglades provide a habitat for dozens of endangered species. But the sea-level rise will make the Everglades' swamps, marshes and lakes more vulnerable to storms and flooding and expose its guests to danger.

Climate change is the most significant threat to the survival of the Great Barrier Reef in Australia. Coral bleaching is increasing in frequency and severity due to rising sea temperatures, and could become an annual event in the course of this century. The most widespread events occurred in 1998 and 2002 with more than 50% of reefs bleached. As the reef dies, other organisms, such as the reef predator crown-of-thorns starfish, move in. By 2050, scientists say, the reef could be dominated by non-coral organisms.

Rarely was a name given to a city so appropriate. Venice, the City of Water, is quite used to the acqua alta ('high water'). According to a new study, MOSE, the new and costly flood barriers, might not be able to protect it in future. Tide rises above 110 centimetres about four times a year, but by the end of the century high water could swamp the city between 30 and 250 times a year. The impact on the local environment and on tourism would be considerable.

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About us
Founded in 1999, HolidayCheck is one of the largest travel-related internet portals in Europe. It has some 300.000 users and receives about 150.000 visits each day. It is a TÃœV-certified company, thus ensuring quality, security and transparency. HolidayCheck has platforms available in 10 languages and comprises over 1.000.000 hotel reviews, 1.300.000 holiday pictures and 20.000 videos. The company's head office is in Bottighofen, a Swiss city on Lake Constance.

Contact person for the press
Keren Cohen
HolidayCheck AG
+41 (0) 71 686 90 00
press@holidaycheck.co.uk

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