Wimbledon is finally here! And with many of the world's best tennis players gracing its lush green courts, and it's time to get ready for lashes of Pimms and a huge pile of strawberries and cream.

Whether you've got tickets or not, the championships are one of the most popular and iconic events on the British sporting calendar.

Don't worry if you're away for it though, as there are various destinations around the world that allow you to follow in the footsteps of the likes of Roger Federer and Andy Murray and have a game of tennis.

Image by la_bretagne_a_paris

Sometimes literature can reveal a lot more about a certain city than a guide book or film, especially if you're determined to experience the destination like a local as opposed to a tourist.

From the best areas to enjoy a spot of brunch, to the top green spaces to laze around in, not only can novels inspire you to explore a new part of the world, but there are plenty of travel tips to pick up from them too.

We've rounded up a list of some of our favourite reads that make us want to visit these different European locations.

Charlotte Street in London by Ewan_M

Say the word honeymoon, and you'll probably think of sandy beaches, romantic strolls and lounging in hammocks made for two.

But here at Hotels4U, we like to mix things up a bit. Our hotels are an ideal base for honeymooners who want to laze around on the beach, but for those of you who want to find something a little bit different to do with your loved one as well while you're away, then read on for some ideas...

With lots of cities around the world catering to loved-up couples, it can be difficult to choose just one, especially if you're undecided about what type of holiday to go on with your other half. If you're torn between a city break or a trip to the beach, then a multi-purpose destination is the ideal option.

We've rounded up three romantic places that allow you to get the best of both worlds.

The Aberdeen skyline (by Roger_G1)

With Father's Day taking place on Sunday 17th June, earlier this week we thought we'd give you a little reminder and nudge in the right direction. Whether you're planning on splashing out on an extravagant gift to remember, taking him somewhere nice or presenting the old man with a brand spanking pair of socks for the seventh year in a row, we take a look at some of the various Father's Day equivalents around the world. So move over women; it's time for the men to celebrate.

This Sunday 17th June, dads all over the country will be waking up to the smell of fresh coffee and cooked breakfast wafting under their nose. Or, if we're being realistic, a hastily written card, a new pair of socks and a day of Formula 1 on the telly. Anyway, if you want to mix things up a bit this weekend and get dad out of the house (and away from the shed), we've put together a few ideas that should keep him occupied.

Image by Mike Cattell

Photo via Flickr - welshgovernment 

With the 2012 games just around the corner, it’s not just London that is preparing for the August Olympics, but Britons everywhere are celebrating the return of the tetrannual summer event with perhaps the oldest ritual of all – following the route of the Olympic torch. As the iconic symbol is at the beginning of its tour around the country, which officially kicked off 19 May, we’ve rounded up the route for you briefly of where it’s been, and the upcoming cities where you can catch a glimpse of the famous flame.

As one of the most momentous weekends in a very long time approaches, people up and down the country are preparing to celebrate the Jubilee in style. After all, it’s not every day the Queen celebrates 60 years on the throne. If you’re looking to join in the festivities, there are a number of events taking place across the UK to mark this historic occasion so wave your flags, put up your bunting and prepare for an incredible four-day extravaganza.

Image by flickr user monkeywing