I’ve toyed with the ideal of taking a cruise next year but often think that being on a cruise ship for 14 days may be a bit constricting, so I’ve been looking at a cruise and stay holiday instead. Cruise and stay holidays seem to be the best of both worlds and I found a great deal on Imagine Cruising.

The deal I have seen is a 14 might cruise and stay holiday in the Caribbean which starts with a 5 night stay in the Gran Melia Hotel, followed by a 7 night cruise around the Caribbean with Celebrity Cruises and a 2 night stay at the San Juan Hotel to finish things off.

The cruise sets off from San Juan and visits some of the most exotic Caribbean destinations including Barbados, St Lucia and Antigua giving you time to look around and take in the scenery.

Prices for this cruise and stay holiday start from just £1,398 per person and I’m really tempted to book one of these for next year.

Going on holiday is expensive, there is no way around it, obviously if you have the money you can splash out on the best, however for many of us we have to weigh up our options and look for the cheapest way possible, especially since the cost of flying has increased.

Many people say why not stay here in the UK and cut out the cost of flights, which is a great option, however even getting around the UK is expensive. If you drive you’re looking at spending a fortune on petrol. If you take a train you’re looking at costly tickets and cramped surrounding whilst you travel. Finally if you take a bus or coach you may save some money but public transport isn’t ideal for families with lots of luggage and a lot of services have been cut which means you can’t get everywhere by bus.

Plus for me I like to get out of this country even for a week, especially somewhere a bit warmer, we have had quite a poor summer and it would be quite nice to spend a week relaxing somewhere warm. You can use comparison websites to find holiday deals such as cheapest flights and cheapest hotels however booking separately can cost you extra. I have decided instead to look at all inclusive holidays, only because of the ease and the fact everything is paid for up front and you don’t have to factor in eating and drinking costs.

All inclusive holidays are becoming more popular as people look at ways to reduce the burden the cost of holidays cause. If you book well in advance out can find some great deals, plus it gives you time to save before you have to pay it off and finally you don’t have to worry about taking lots of spending money for food and drink.

In these austere times getting the best deal is imperative especially if you really want a holiday and lets face who doesn’t want to go on holiday!

Holidays come but once a year (for me and my family anyway) and next year I would love to book a once in a lifetime luxury holiday that the whole family could enjoy. I’m thinking somewhere like Jamaica or the Seychelles; I know it’s not going to be cheap but to have almost guaranteed sun (at specific times of the year of course) and access to water sports for the kids would be great.

There are lots of destinations to choose from, all with fantastic hotels and facilities that are sure to keep us and the kids occupied for the duration of the holiday. These hotels also have various bars and restaurants serving the best of local cuisine and drink and most have a selection of exotic pools and beaches to relax on.

I definitely think next summer we’ll try something special, it would certainly be a family holiday to remember.

Having heard so much hype about the Royal Wedding for the last few months I’ve decided that a family day trip is in order to get away from it all. Being a long standing Manchester United fan it seemed fitting that instead of sitting in front of the TV all day I would make the hundred mile trip to Old Trafford and take the stadium and museum tour.

I’ve been to Old Trafford quite a few times for over the years, but my kids haven’t been yet so what a great time to take them now that they are old enough to appreciate it. I’ve never driven up before because I’ve always used public transport, but I know the rough area where it is and there is ample parking next to the stadium.

I’m taking a marker pen just in case there are any players in and around the stadium, but I doubt it; they will probably be getting ready for Sunday’s game against Arsenal.

That’s what I’m doing for the Royal Wedding, what about you?

Having decided to take a trip to London, for a long weekend or a short holiday, then choosing the perfect hotel for your needs is of paramount importance. For example, if you are wishing to spend most of your time sightseeing in and around the city, then choosing a hotel on the outskirts of the city is not the best idea. This could mean hours lost due to commuting and also bumps up the overall budget required for the holiday, as the constant travel costs will be expensive.

If you are staying in the capital primarily to see stage shows, then choose one of the many London hotels that are situated in the West End. It makes it an easy task to travel between all the theatres and your hotel, but still close enough to tube services that can take you to other parts of the city for added sightseeing.

The amenities of your London hotel are also crucial. For some, just a bed for the night is necessary, so why pay high prices for a hotel that has all the trimmings, such as gym and swimming pool when you won’t even use them?

For those who do want all the trimmings with their hotel London is the place to be. There are many top class hotel rooms and suites on offer to suit even the highest budgets, where every whim can be catered for, and these can be the ideal way to pamper yourself during your stay.