Hotels4u.com Blog - your guide to the best hotels and destinations worldwide.

Feeling Active? Try these Beaches in Europe...

Hotels4u.com | Thursday, May 17, 2012 2:35 PM — 5/17/2012 2:35:37 PM

A focal point of pretty much anyone's summer holiday, the beach is the place above all others to relax with a cocktail in your hand, read a good book, and catch up on your suntan.

However, it's not all about snoozes and siestas - many beaches around the world are famous for being hotspots for exciting activities and get togethers that make them an exciting hub for their local town. We've put together a little collection of our favourite activity beaches in Europe.

The buzzing beach at Sesimbra, Portugal. By culebrense via Flickr.

Sesimbra, Portugal

Just an hour's drive from Lisbon, the buzzing Portuguese capital, lies Sesimbra. Although the safe swimming and south-facing beach means it's a good option for dozers and snoozers, Sesimbra town is perfect for seafood fans. As an authentic and distinctive fishing port, the town is chock-full of long standing seafood eateries that have stood on the shorefront for generations, sizzling up freshly-caught fish on outdoor charcoal grills. Fresh fish is also sold daily at a lively auction in the town's harbour district.

Book a cheap hotel in Lisbon and see it for yourself.

Valencia, Spain

Located on the eastern, Balearic-facing coast of the country, Spain's third-largest city of Valencia boasts an impressive beach, that's as famous for its golden sands as it is for its bustling bars and tavernas, peddling everything from world-class paella to fiercely strong Sangria and cocktails. When you tire of the beach, the heart of Valencia is just a short jaunt away, offering clubs and bars to rival any European city.

Take a look at Hotel4U's selection of hotels in Spain.

Image credit: Lauren-Jane via Flickr

Viganj, Croatia

Internationally-renowned within the kite-surfing community, Viganj Beach in Dalmatia, Croatia, has long been celebrated as the perfect place for kite- and wind-surfing. Its location on a narrow channel on the Adriatic Sea between Peljesac and Korcula means that it experiences especially strong winds whipping across the beach, making it ideal for anyone keen to try this adrenaline sport. Viganj has become a popular meeting-spot and training centre for kite-surfers and wind-surfers of all skill levels, making it one of the most interesting ‘activity beaches' in the world.

To see our selection of cheap hotels in Croatia, click here.

Erimoupolis, Crete

On the east coast of the picturesque Greek island of Crete lies the beach of Erimoupolis. It's famed for the nearby ghost town of Itanos, whose spectral ruins and ancient graveyards you have to traverse in order to reach the rugged beach. Historians and amateur Tomb Raiders will love hopping
about in the rugged ruins and exploring the ancient relics, and the postcard-perfect beach itself isn't too shabby to look at, either.

For more information on our hotels in Crete, check out the Hotels4U website.

As always, you can let us know your favourite beaches in the comments, or on Twitter, Facebook or Google+.

Popular Sunshine Destinations around Europe

Hotels4u.com | Tuesday, May 15, 2012 3:57 PM — 5/15/2012 3:57:52 PM

With the often drab, rainy and - let's face it - downright miserable weather in the UK, who can blame us for dashing off to warmer climes at the nearest opportunity? Many of most popular resorts around Europe are flooded with sunshine all year round making them the perfect place to bask in the heat.

So if you're getting tired of the rainy season, take a look at some of our favourite suntraps, grab a hotel deal, and get packing...

On the beach in Ibiza (image by Philip Larson)

The Balearics

Average hours of sunshine per day (summer): 10.5

Consisting of Ibiza, Majorca and Menorca, the Balearic Islands are blessed with sublime sunshine all year round. Not only that, but they offer some of the best beaches in Europe to soak it all up on. It's not all clubbing and partying in Ibiza either, as moving away from San Antonio will allow you to explore the unspoilt coastline made up of nearly 80 beaches - perfect for lying back and topping up that tan.

With its array of golden beaches, Majorca has a huge choice of places for sun seekers. Leisure activities including water sports, beach games and golf are popular here and nothing beats getting a bit of exercise with the sun on your back. Click here for some of the best deals available.

For a more chilled out atmosphere, Menorca boasts more beaches than the rest of the Balearics put together, which means even more space to pop your shades on, lay down your towel and soak up the rays.

The beach at the Vienoulas Garden Hotel in Mykonos Town, Greece

Greece

Average hours of sunshine per day (summer): 11

With no end of sites to see, Greece is another great option if you're in search of a sunny sojourn. From the minute you wake up until the moment the sun goes down, this historic country in the Mediterranean is the ideal place to grab some much needed Vitamin D.
If lounging around on the beach all day isn't for you, there are a variety of activities to keep you occupied. During the summer months, maximum temperatures can reach 33C so cooling off in the sea whether you're wind surfing, kayaking or simply taking a dip is always a great option.

If you're in search of some sizzling sun this year, there are plenty of great deals to be found in Greece.

Having a ball in Cyprus, by Valentina Powers

Cyprus

Average hours of sunshine per day (summer): 12

When it comes to sunshine, Cyprus is head and shoulders above the rest. With around 3,000 hours of sunshine every year, and just a short four and a half hour flight from the UK, you won't have to travel far in your quest for sunshine. The pretty beaches are the perfect location to sit back with a cocktail and look out over the Mediterranean, and the water parks on the island are the perfect places to cool off while keeping the kids entertained. With an excellent selection of rides, slides and flumes, the Paphos Aphrodite Park is ideal for families with children who want to escape the heat for a day.

If you're thinking of heading off to a sunnier destination this summer, check out the variety of great deals available on Hotels4 U - just don't forget the sun cream!

Have you been to any of these destinations? Tell us below, or show us your holiday snaps on Twitter, Facebook or Google+.

Ideas for your Summer Holiday in 2012

Hotels4u.com | Wednesday, May 09, 2012 4:48 PM — 5/9/2012 4:48:05 PM

The summer is nearly upon us and we'll soon be digging out our shorts and basking in the glorious British sunshine (hopefully!). Whatever the weather, this summer promises to be an exciting one with so many things to see and do, whether you're staying at home or going abroad. Today, we're taking a look at some of the best things to do and get involved in this summer.

On the beach in Rhodes, by flickr user drdcuddy

Go Abroad
Let's face it; the weather in the UK is unpredictable at the best of times, so why not head somewhere that guarantees sunshine and lots of it? With arguably the most varied group of islands in Europe, you can't go wrong with Greece. Whether it's clubbing in Zante or sightseeing in Rhodes, check out Hotels4u for a selection of Greece hotels suitable for every budget.

Staycation
Why jet off thousands of miles away though when everything we need can be found right on our very own doorstep (well almost). For example, you could go on a train ride to the Scottish capital, Edinburgh, where there's lots to offer visitors of every age. Book into one of our fantastic hotels in Edinburgh and explore the famous Edinburgh Castle, take a walk down the Royal Mile or spend an evening of fun and frivolity in one of the lively bars in the city.

Olympic Stadium, by Frank Steiner

Olympic Games
Unless you've been living in a cave for the past year or so, you might have heard that the greatest sporting event in the world is taking place this summer in London. Whether you were lucky enough to get tickets for the 100m final or the beach volleyball, the Olympics Games is sure to be one of the most historic events this country has ever seen. Take a look at our selection of London hotels for some great deals on accommodation.

Diamond Jubilee
There's nothing more British than the Royal Family and with the Queen's Diamond Jubilee taking place in June, this summer is sure to be the most majestic of occasions. Best of all, we get an extra bank holiday too on June 5th, enabling you to join in the celebrations as the Queen celebrates 60 years on the throne. Or why not follow in the Royal footsteps by doing your own Jubilee themed tour of the country?

Leeds Festival, by Ian Wilson

Festivals
Those who don't mind slumming it in a muddy field surrounded by fellow revellers, smelly port-a-loo's and lots of noise should head to one of the various music festivals happening around the UK this summer. Whether you're getting your glow sticks out in Stratford-upon-Avon for Global Gathering (27-28 July), rocking out to Kasabian and Foo Fighters at Leeds Festival (24-26 April) or living it up at Bestival (6-9 September) on the Isle of Wight, there is a festival for everyone out there.

House Decorated for the 2010 World Cup, by Matthew Wilkinson

Football European Championships
With all the excitement of the Olympics, let's not forget the football European Championships are also being held this summer. Taking place in Poland and Ukraine, the hopes of the nation will rest on the shoulders of Wayne Rooney and co as England aim to win their first tournament since 1966. Expect the country to be awash with St George's flags, men in pubs who have just about managed to squeeze into their England shirts for another year and perhaps more footballing heartache.

What are your plans for the summer? Tell us in the comments!

You can also catch up with us on Twitter, Facebook or Google+.

Events around the UK on May Bank Holiday

Hotels4u.com | Thursday, May 03, 2012 11:12 AM — 5/3/2012 11:12:40 AM

Bank holidays are just brilliant. As if it wasn't enough to get an extra day off work, the week that follows is only four-days long! If that's not the cat's pyjamas, we don't know what is.

We've been asking round the office, finding out what everyone's up to across the UK this bank holiday weekend, so we thought we'd put together a little list of local events across some of our favourite British cities to help you make the most of your time off.

Hampton Court Palace by edwin.11

Events in the Capital

Fans of street dance and hip-hop won't want to miss the Breakin' Convention, a three-day festival at Sadler's Wells Theatre in Finsbury that features pioneering hip-hop dance theatre artists from around the world, with some of the best poppers, lockers, DJs & MCs, B-boys and B-girls that Earth has to offer. The festival runs from Saturday 5th May to Monday 7th May, and tickets start at £15.

For those who prefer their surroundings a little more genteel, check out the Food Festival at Hampton Court Palace. Taking place all weekend long, the festival features a number of foodie events for kids, families, and anyone who loves fine cuisine. With Michelin star chefs demonstrating their skills and knowledge, gourmet workshops and masterclasses for aspiring chefs of all ages, and more free samples than you can shake a stick at, this is guaranteed to satisfy your curiosity as well as your stomach. Adult tickets are £15, and kids under 16 go free.

Click here to take a look at London hotels for your long weekend in the capital.

St Peter’s Church in Ancoats by salford_ian

May Merriment in Manchester

For those heading up north to Manchester for their city break, wine lovers will adore the North West Spring Wine Fest. Taking place all weekend long at the dramatic St. Peter's Church in Ancoats, the festival is a celebration of exciting, exclusive, and boutique wines brought to Manchester by a range of independent merchants from around the world.

With food stalls, wine tutorials, and a plethora of free plonk, this is a perfect excuse to get some daytime merriness into your bank holiday weekend. For those wanting to stay on the wagon, the Fest is also offering guided walking tours of its historic setting, the mysterious and industrial neighbourhood of Ancoats, considered by many to be the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution. Walking tours take place on Saturday 5th May, and offer visitors the chance to learn more about this fascinating area of the city, and the role it played in putting Manchester on the world map. Tickets to the North West Spring Wine Fest cost £10.

Click here to find Manchester hotels nearby.

Edinburgh's Festivals: More than just the Fringe

It's not just the legendary Fringe theatre festival in the summer; Scotland's capital has events and festivals all year round, and the May Bank Holiday weekend is no exception. Sticking with the city's love of theatre, the Bank of Scotland Imaginate Festival is perfect for those visiting the city with children. Starting on bank holiday Monday, Imaginate is a touring children's theatre festival, which brings together shows from top international performers as well as local Scottish theatre companies, for audiences that range from babies to teenagers. Claiming to be the ‘largest and most successful performing arts festival for children and young people in the UK', Imaginate features 15 or so productions at various venues across Edinburgh.

Tickets start at £10, and the sprawling nature of the festival means that there's bound to be some near your cheap accommodation in Edinburgh.

Whether you're staying in your home city, visiting relatives in another part of the UK with your family, or heading on a romantic couples city-break for the long weekend, there are plenty of exciting events to get involved with, wherever you're going on your May Bank Holiday weekend.

To view more of our great accommodation options across the UK, click here.

Let us know what you're up to this weekend in the comments, on Twitter, Facebook or Google+.

Three British May Day Traditions

Hotels4u.com | Tuesday, May 01, 2012 10:03 AM — 5/1/2012 10:03:33 AM

At long last, the May Bank Holiday is fast approaching. And while these days you might think of the Bank Holiday as an excuse to do a spot of DIY, wander around the shops, or book a cheap hotel and go away for the weekend, historically May Day has been celebrated in rather different ways.

So if you're out and about around the UK this weekend, keep your eyes peeled for some of these May Day traditions that might be coming to a village near you...

Morris dancers on the Southbank by Jim Linwood

Morris Dancing

The origins of this slightly baffling British folk tradition are a mystery to most, but it’s estimated to have appeared first in the 15^th Century. Typically, the dancers – their legs adorned with bells - arrange themselves in two lines of six or eight, and perform rhythmic “stepping” routines that can involve banging sticks and waving handkerchiefs to music. It might sound (and look) slightly strange to see a group of men dancing about with bells on, but troupes or “sides” of Morris Dancers can still be found practicing May Day rituals across the country, most notably in the Cotswolds in Gloucestershire.

Children dance around the Maypole by Ali Smiles

The Maypole

Another dance traditionally performed on the first day of May happens around the Maypole. This involves streamers or ribbons attached to a pole, which gradually become woven into patterns by dancers who skip around holding onto the ends. One of the country’s oldest Maypoles can be found in the village of Barwick-in-Elmet in West Yorkshire. The village hosts a popular Maypole Festival every three years that attracts hoards of visitors, but if you fancy getting involved, you’ll have to wait until 2014 for the next one.

The May Queen on her throne, by LindaH

Crowning a May Queen

Dressed and decorated to welcome in Spring, the May Queen is traditionally a young girl or woman crowned with a garland of flowers at the start of May Day, who leads the parades and celebrations. The competition to be Queen for a day started centuries ago, and is said to represent Flora, the goddess of flowers, but the tradition is still alive and well in towns and villages around the UK. One such place is Knutsford in Cheshire; a town that has run a competition for the accolade as part of their annual Royal May Day celebrations since 1864.

If you’re heading away in search of some traditional May Day festivities this Bank Holiday weekend, click here to book one of our cheap hotel deals and give yourself something extra to celebrate.

Will there be Morris Dancing near you this weekend? Let us know in the comments, or on Facebook, Twitter or Google+.

Diamond Jubilee Celebrations - The Queen’s Tour of the UK

Hotels4u.com | Thursday, April 26, 2012 11:44 AM — 4/26/2012 11:44:30 AM

You don’t get much more British than the Royal Family and in honour of the Queen celebrating 60 years at the helm, there are plenty of Diamond Jubilee celebrations planned in 2012. To mark this momentous occasion, Queen Liz and Prince Philip are currently on an epic tour of the UK.

Clearly, Her Majesty likes to get out and about, as by the end of the year she’ll have covered almost every corner of the country from Glanusk Park and Glasgow to Sunderland and Salisbury. Travelling by car, aircraft, the Royal Train and the ship Leander, the Queen and Duke of Edinburgh’s tour is currently attracting huge crowds wherever they go.

Manchester and Salford - 23th March

After beginning her tour in Leicester, the Queen (looking pretty in pink) travelled to Manchester on the royal train to be greeted by hundreds of flag-waving fans. After leaving Victoria Station, the Queen and Prince Philip delighted staff and students as they visited the Manchester Royal Eye Hospital. The BBC Media Centre in Salford was next on Her Majesty’s itinerary before dining at the Manchester Town Hall for a tasty jubilee lunch feast.

The Queen at the Media City, by the University of Salford

North London - 29th March

After the excitement of Manchester, the royal party headed a bit closer to home with a trip to North London. After the obligatory smiling and waving at Valentine’s Park in Redbridge, the Queen made her way to a town hall and school in Harrow to continue the celebrations before heading back home in time for Coronation Street. Why not follow in royal footsteps and book one of the many London hotels in the area to spend a day admiring the beautiful mansion and gardens in Valentine’s Park?

Buckingham Palace, by flickr user Bex Walton

Wales - 26th-27th April

At the end of April, Wales is set to roll out the red carpet as the Queen is planning on spending a couple of days in the “land of song”. From visiting Cyfarthfa Castle Museum in Merthyr Tydfil to meeting members of the Welsh rugby team in Port Talbot, Her Majesty is in for an action-packed jaunt in Wales. Well-wishers and Royalty-buffs are sure to be booking into the various hotels in Cardiff to try and get a glimpse of the royal party, so why don’t you? Click here for some of the best deals.

Welsh Rugby team, by flickr user TruPlaces

Scotland - 2nd-6th July

The beginning of July sees the Queen and the Duke travelling back up north to spend a week in Scotland where they will discover the best of what Edinburgh, Glasgow and Perth have to offer. Staying at the Palace of Holyrood House (the Queen’s official Scottish residence), the royal couple are sure to be kept busy during their trip here. With Edinburgh hotels to suit every budget, fans of the Royal Family will be able to stay close to all the regal action or alternatively visit some of the other landmarks in the Scottish capital such as Edinburgh Castle or the Royal Botanic Gardens.

Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh, by flickr user Nigel Swales

Do let us know if you’ve been to see the Queen already on her Jubilee tour or if you’re planning on rubbing shoulders with royalty in the next couple of months. Leave us a comment below…

We Love Britain: Royal Heritage Sites Around The UK

Hotels4u.com | Tuesday, April 24, 2012 10:11 AM — 4/24/2012 10:11:46 AM

However you feel about the modern day monarchy, there's no denying that it's an important aspect of Britain's historic roots.

So, to celebrate the Queen's upcoming Diamond Jubilee and the Olympic games this summer, we've rounded up some of our favourite regal heritage sites throughout the UK where you can walk the red carpet, without royally dipping into your bank account.

Windsor Castle by mharrsch via Flickr

Windsor

Not only is Windsor Castle the biggest occupied castle throughout the globe with more than 1,000 rooms, but it's the oldest too, dating back to the 11th century. Located in Berkshire, the Queen's official residence was originally built after the 1066 Norman Conquest by William the Conqueror. Today you can take a tour of the residence and see the grand early 19th century architecture for yourself. Adult tickets are £17, and it's £10.20 for children. Kids aged 4 and under get in for free. While you're in the area, stop by Eton College. The famous public school, founded in 1440, is just across the Windsor Bridge from Her Majesty's stomping grounds.

If you fancy visiting the Castle, click here to find great deals on hotels in Berkshire.

Royal Yacht Britannia by Lenny via Flickr

Edinburgh

If you're in this Scottish capital, you can hop onboard Her Majesty's former ship, The Royal Yacht Britannia. Docked in Leith, the attraction is just a short distance away from the city centre. After transporting Britain's monarchy around the world for 44 years, the vessel, which turns 60 in June, is now open for public viewing with most of the royal residence still intact for a truly authentic glimpse of this stately ship. A day's ticket costs £11.75 for adults and £7.50 for children, which includes an audio tour and kids under 5 get in for free.

To help keep the costs down even more, take a look at Hotels4U's selection of cheap hotels in Edinburgh.

Buckingham Palace by ddtmmm via Flickr

London

What better way to celebrate the June Jubilee weekend than visiting Her Majesty's most famous residence, Buckingham Palace. The Palace will be the location of the BBC's Diamond Jubilee Concert on Monday June 4, when a range of musicians from the UK and Commonwealth will be entertaining lucky ticket holders in the Mall. Even if you missed out in the ticket ballot, nearby Hyde Park will be hosting a two day family festival over the Jubilee weekend. Kids will love the Disney themed finales - and the patriotism should be palpable.

Want to get involved in the celebrations? Search the Hotels4U website for great deals on hotels in London.

Balmoral Castle by Paula Funnell via Flickr

Aberdeen

Based in the heart of Aberdeenshire, Balmoral Castle is a classic example of Scots Baronial architecture and is available to tour. An official royal residence since 1852, the Queen spends much of her summers up north on this Scottish estate. Adult tickets are £9 and children aged 5-16 cost £5. Or if you're bringing the whole gang, why not opt for a family ticket (2 adults and up to 4 children) for £25. If you fancy a hike in the countryside while you're there, you're in luck, as the 49,000-acre private property is next to Britain's largest arctic mountain range, the Cairngorms National Park.

If you're thinking of visiting any of these Royal sites, book a room on the Hotels4U website.

Tell us about your favourite British royal heritage sites on our Facebook, Google+ and Twitter pages.

Q&A With Harry Hotel

Harry | Monday, April 23, 2012 3:33 PM — 4/23/2012 3:33:43 PM

Me in Benidorm :)

What are Harry’s recommendations for holidays in 2012?

There are so many great trips to go on this year I don’t know where to start! Of course, it’s worth planning a visit to London this summer if you haven’t already, so that you can join in the festival atmosphere that will accompany the Olympics! Our capital city is set to become the focal point of the world for a couple of months this year, so you’d be silly to miss out. Plan a week away and really see the city through the eyes of a tourist – you’ll be amazed at what London can offer when you treat it like a holiday destination!

What’s the best souvenir Harry has ever bought whilst on holiday?

My famous sunglasses are definitely my favourite souvenir, although I didn’t actually buy them! I was given them by a sunglass salesman in Marrakech who recognised me from the Hotels4U billboards; it’s always nice to meet a fan, especially when they come bearing gifts! Take a look at them for yourself here on my own personal twitter account.. @HarryHotels4u

What’s the best hotel Harry has ever stayed in?

Now that’s one I really can’t answer! There are so many different hotels to consider, for so many different types of holiday! Cheap hotels, boutique hotels, luxury hotels, spa hotels, youth hostels… the list goes on and on, and it completely depends on what you’re looking for. What I will say, however, is that the comfiest bed I’ve ever stayed in is my bed at home, when I return after a long trip overseas.

Is Harry single?

Ahem! I’m flattered by the question! Over the years I’ve gone on all sorts of holidays: romantic getaways with a lovely lady, adventurous solo hikes through the mountains, family holidays with my friends and their families, and they each have their own unique charms. Travelling abroad is one of the most romantic situations imaginable, and I know many friends who met their partners on holiday, so I’m always keeping my eyes open for a love connection when I’m travelling!

Which is Harry’s favourite destination?

Wow, this is a tough one! It completely depends on the type of holiday I’m going on: city break, romantic trip, family holiday, sight-seeing, all inclusive… However, I think out of all the places I’ve ever visited, you can’t really beat Paris! The City of Lights is one of my favourite cities; they’ve got outstanding food, amazing art galleries, and more romance than you can shake a stick at. Plus those Paris hotels sure are glamorous!

How does Harry keep his hair looking so good?

Nice try, but I’m not going to part with my secret recipe! It’s an old Hotel family tradition that’s been passed down through the generations, and it’s kept all us Hotel men with fine sturdy quiffs that never falter, even in the harshest tropical conditions – so I’m not giving it up that easy!

Did you enjoy our interview with Harry Hotel? If you have any more questions you’d like to ask, pop them in the comments below and we’ll ask him to answer on his Twitter feed @HarryHotels4u

Harry’s Guide To Choosing the Right Hotel

Harry | Tuesday, April 17, 2012 4:40 PM — 4/17/2012 4:40:30 PM

Hi folks! Harry here! At Hotels4U HQ we’ve been getting super-excited about making holiday plans for the summer, and what I love more than anything is hearing about where everyone is going! From relaxing retreats by the beach to jam-packed city breaks, outdoor hiking adventures to long weekends away with friends, there are so many different and fun-filled experiences out there. Of course, the way to turn a great holiday into a perfect holiday is with the right hotel, so I’ve been thinking about my top tips to help make sure you pick the perfect accommodation, whatever your holiday plans…

Location

Your hotel’s exact location within your destination of choice has a big impact on the type of holiday you have. I went to Barcelona a few years ago and I stayed right in the heart of town. I loved being so close to all the action. Being near all the top galleries, museums, and attractions, not to mention the bars and restaurants was so handy! However, Barcelona hotels in the centre of the city aren’t for everyone, and if you’re looking for a retreat that’s a little less manic and intense, you might be better off choosing somewhere in a quieter neighbourhood of the city. The same applies wherever you’re going; you should always make sure you do some research into the surroundings of your hotel and its location. This will help you pick the hotel that’s right for you and your holiday!

Facilities

It’s also important to look at the facilities that a hotel has to offer. If you’re travelling with the family, it’s a good idea to check out hotels’ childcare facilities, such as a nursery or crèche, kids’ activities club, or babysitting service. You’ve got to keep the little travellers just as entertained as the big ones, after all! Many hotels these days have amazing facilities such as gyms or fitness suites, games rooms, and even spas – I’ve certainly enjoyed a relaxing mud-bath or two at hotel spas on my travels! Matching the facilities that your hotel offers to the type of holiday experience that you’re after is another great way to make sure that you’re getting the best accommodation to suit your holiday needs.

Price

From five-star luxury to cheap and cheerful youth hostels, there are hotels out there to suit every kind of holiday budget. If you’re looking to bring down the cost of your hotel a tad, being flexible on things like location or timings can help you to get a good deal. When seeking out cheap hotels in popular destinations, for example, you can often bring the cost down by picking somewhere that’s a little further away from the beach, or from the centre of town. Alternatively, travelling out of season can also help you to bag a bargain – and you can avoid the crowds while you’re at it. Also look out for discounts, many of our hotels offer discounts for booking early or you may find a late deal too.

So there you have it! Some simple but effective tips for picking the right hotel for you. When you’ve been around the globe as many times as I have, you learn that it’s the small details in a hotel that can make all the difference to your holiday… So be smart with your accommodation choices and you’ll be sure to love the hotel you pick and enjoy your holiday all the more for it! Happy travels!

Would you like to hear more from Harry in the future? What guides would you like him to put together? Let us know your thoughts by taking part in our survey on Facebook! You can also say hi to Harry on twitter by following him @harryhotels4u

5 Things You Didn't Know About Malta

Hotels4u.com | Thursday, April 12, 2012 10:06 AM — 4/12/2012 10:06:20 AM

Five Things You Didn't Know About Malta

All this week, we’re delving under the skin of Malta and discovering why it makes such a good holiday destination. Aside from the sunny weather, historical sites and wealth of culture on offer – not to mention the sandy beaches – there’s lots more to this Mediterranean hub than you might realise. So before you book one of our Malta hotels and discover the country for yourself, here are five things you might not know about our destination of the week:

St Pauls Anglican Cathedral by Glen Bowman

1. Dealing with the dosh

If you’re going to Malta from mainland Europe, you’re in luck as this little island traded in their original currency of Maltese Lira (or the lira Maltija as the locals called it) for the Euro in 2008. The €1 coins contain the Maltese cross embellished on each one while the smaller coins feature the Mnajdra temples, so look out for these little quirks when counting your cash.

St Johns Co-Cathedral by Tony Hisgett

2. Prehistoric roots

If you’ve seen the city and have spent enough time on the beach, escape to some manmade marvels and learn a little about the Malta’s rich history. The island boasts megalithic temples dating back to 3800 BC when it was occupied by the Greeks, Romans and Normans. The Ġgantija temples or "Giants' Tower" in Gozo are considered some of the oldest manmade monuments in the world and as they display a religious significance, they’ve been officially recognised as a world heritage site by UNESCO.

3. Pope popularity

The country is predominantly Catholic with an estimated 98 per cent of the population practicing religiously. With 360 churches for one in every thousand residents, it’s one of the most Catholic nations. Be sure to visit one of Valletta’s most famous holy venues, St John’s Co-Cathedral opposite St John’s square in the historic centre of this Maltese capital. If you’re not religious, you can still appreciate Valletta’s Baroque architecture from one of the cafés overlooking the square.

Malta Coastal View by 'wparadiso' - Flickr

4. Hollywood of the Med

Although one of Malta’s most profitable exports is limestone, the country also makes a bit of money from the ever increasing film production that takes place on the island. Some of the famous international flicks filmed there range from the likes of Gladiator to Alexander and The Da Vinci Code. If you’re a real movie buff, go on one of Malta’s movie tours offered on the island, which is proving increasingly popular with tourists.

5. British ties

Contrary to popular belief, Malta was once owned by Britain and was adopted as a colony in 1814. Although gaining independence in September of 1964, the island is still part of the commonwealth today and if you flash a UK passport, you won’t need a visa upon arrival.

If you fancy visiting Malta this summer, take a look at our cheap hotels – and if you’ve got any facts to add to the list, leave them in the comments below.