Everyone deserves to let their hair down once in a while, and if you feel it’s your time to party, then there are tons of destinations throughout the world ready and waiting to help you dance ‘til you drop.

Whatever your budget, from short haul Ibiza holidays and holidays in Turkey, to long haul jaunts to Mexico or beyond, the globe is brimming with clubbing capitals dishing out endless opportunities to let loose.

San Antonio, Ibiza

San Antonio, Ibiza is the true home of clubbing. Epic events – such as Ibiza Rocks and Ibiza Live – attract some of the most famous names in the music industry, as well as permanent world-class DJs headlining your evening entertainment.

Malia, Crete

As the most southern of the Greek Islands, Crete is in an excellent position to provide some of the most scorching summer sessions. Since the Inbetweeners boys hit Malia shores to film their epic summer movie, Malia’s popularity has grown to titanic proportions, making it a top choice for summer 2013.

Cancun, Mexico

Ten hours travel from the UK, but worth it in every way. Cancun takes nightlife to another level. Not only does the centre have some fabulously fun, American style clubs and bars, holidaymakers simply must not miss that opportunity to check out the magnificent CoCo Bongos.

Gumbet, Turkey

When you want to team a little bit of short haul clubbing with a relaxing beach break, Gumbet is certainly the resort you’re looking for. Gumbet has its own striking stretch of glorious sands, sprinkled with some exciting clubs, pubs and bars.

Magaluf, Majorca

Hands down the most care-free and chaotic clubbing escape of them all. Situated just over an hour from the UK, Magaluf is an ideal choice for those who need to quickly escape to sunny shores.

Where would you go to party next summer?

Created by volcanic eruptions and surrounded by the sumptuous seas of the Aegean, Santorini is a naturally resplendent island environment and a seriously attractive proposition for sun-seeking tourists from across Europe.

The island specialises in hillside villas with views guaranteed to take your breath away and perhaps to make you wonder why you’d never taken a trip to Santorini before.

The beauty of the island is matched by the hospitality of the locals and the attention to detail of the hotels and apartment operators in the leading holiday hotspots – you can book Santorini holidays more easily now than ever and there are some terrific bargains on high quality getaways available right now.

Booking online can land you a worthwhile discount and if you’re really keen to find a bargain then they don’t come any more heavily discounted than when they’re still on sale right down to the last minute.

It is difficult to really sum up what Santorini has to offer visitors to its shores but you are sure to be bowled over by the sheer majesty of the place and by the warm welcome you are always likely to receive on arrival.

Whitewashed walls and sun-kissed seas are the trademark of the island, while the local cuisine is centred around fresh, quality ingredients, as you’ll find at any number of excellent restaurants.

Sitting right in the heart of the Aegean, Santorini boasts as outstanding a holiday proposition as any of the other Greek island you have no doubt heard of and considered visiting like Cyprus, Kos, Crete or Corfu.

And while if you’re looking for discount Greece holidays this year then you’ve any number of options to choose from you should certainly count Santorini among the very best that are out there.

It can be difficult choosing a destination for an impending hen do, particularly if you’re the one planning it – wherever you choose, you can save on group bookings with Travelodge, meaning that wherever you are in the UK, the hen do doesn’t have to cost a bomb before you even leave the hotel room.

1. London – Whether it involves the all-out luxury of gourmet dining in one of the UK’s finest restaurants, catching a west end show, browsing the diverse range of shops and museums that await you or just dancing  ‘til you drop in one of the many bars and clubs, London truly has it all. Recommended: Wicked at the Apollo Victoria for a magical evening of music, fun and a remarkable atmosphere.

2. York – With the popular area of Mickelgate for the traditional hen party bars and clubs, to the cultural afternoons exploring York Maze and the Jorvik Viking centre, York is jam packed with activities to suit everybody. Recommended: The York Dungeons for an afternoon of ghoulish fun.

3. Edinburgh – This beautiful and historic city, capital of breathtaking Scotland, is famous for a whole host of cultural delights, including Edinburgh Castle, the Fringe and the Military Tattoo. Recommended: The Edinburgh Highland Adventure Bus for an action packed day in the Highlands.

4. Brighton – A highly acclaimed destination for a hen do, Brighton offers some incredible shopping, buzzing nightlife and a picturesque seaside locality. Recommended: An evening of cabaret at the Brighton Ballroom.

5. Manchester – The cosmopolitan capital of the North West, Manchester offers a myriad of activities to suit any requirements. From the awesome shopping opportunities to the cracking nightlife, you’ll struggle to not enjoy yourself in this awesome city with a buzzing vibe. Recommended: Satan’s Hollow for some head banging rock anthems.

6. Leeds – Although the nightlife and shopping districts are infamous for being superb, its proximity to the Yorkshire Dales also means it’s on the doorstep of some amazing outdoor adventures. Recommended: Mud Buggies for an afternoon to get your fill of thrills.

7. Blackpool – Infamous for its seaside, pier and energetic nightlife, Blackpool is the diamond in the rough of the North West but hugely popular with hen dos. Recommended: An afternoon at the Pleasure Beach for some classic fairground fun.

8. Nottingham – Centrally located in the middle of England, Nottingham is a haven for hen dos of all description. With fab bars and clubs that and a multitude of daytime activities to choose from, you’ll be hard pressed not to find something that suits. Recommended: Paintballing at the largest site in the Midlands. Definitely one for all action girls.

9. Newcastle – Arguably the party capital of Britain, it’s a clubbers paradise that is affordable and fun filled. Recommended: Quayside for some late night revelling.

10. Liverpool – The redevelopment of this cultural city in 2008 has given Liverpool a new lease of life. With world class restaurants, top notch clubs and friendly locals, you’re never too far away from a fun filled evening in this fantastically vibrant city. Recommended: An afternoon at the Albert Docks.

Discover a UK city for yourselves and book your hotel online to ensure a hen do with a difference.

This Portuguese island is a beautiful, unique destination – you can find out more about different holidays to Madeira here, and I’ve come up with a few of the main reasons why I think you should put it firmly on your to-visit list this summer.

1. The weather

Madeira is the perfect place for a summer break if you want warm, sunny weather that isn’t stiflingly hot. Average temperatures between June and August rarely get much above 25 to 30 degrees C, while there is normally minimal rainfall during this period.

As a general rule, Funchal – the island’s capital – experiences the most sunshine and lightest winds because it is protected by the tallest mountains, but you can pretty much look forward to favourable weather no matter where on the island you’re based.

2. The range of activities

If you’re anything like me and want to have a few things to do while on holiday, rather than just lying in the sun, Madeira is the place to come.

Its interior is characterised by the striking mountains, which are crisscrossed by beautiful walking trails. These typically follow the levadas – irrigation channels cut into the slopes – and you’ll get some amazing views as you stroll.

Other land-based activities on offer include climbing, mountain biking, golf and horse riding, while you can jump into a canyoning excursion in some of the island’s streams for something a bit more exhilarating.

The ultimate thrill, however, has to be paragliding or hang gliding, as it will give you a fantastic opportunity to fully appreciate Madeira’s stunning mountains and cliffs.

Water fanatics won’t be disappointed either, as scuba diving, surfing, windsurfing, waterskiing and fishing are all available at various locations along the island’s coast.

3. The chance to be pampered

Getting out and about in the great outdoors isn’t to everyone’s taste, so if you’d rather spend your days being really pampered, you’ll also be well catered for.

Madeira is home to some truly luxurious spas, where you can book everything from aromatherapy massages and thalassotherapy treatments to manicures and reiki sessions.

Even if you spend the early part of your holiday being active, you can round off your break with a couple of days in unbridled luxury.

4. The culture

Madeira was first colonised by the Portuguese in the 15th century and Funchal quickly developed into an important port due to its location.

There is a lot of history to be uncovered here, with everything from old churches to stunning art galleries dotted around the island. As the capital, Funchal has the largest concentration of cultural attractions.

One you shouldn’t miss is the cathedral, which boasts an amazing carved wood ceiling, while Funchal Town Hall – the former palace of the Count of Carvalhal – is a wonderful example of 18th-century architecture.

There are numerous art museums in Funchal as well, including the Museum of Contemporary Art, where you can view works by Portuguese artists from the 1960s to the present day.

There is also the Henrique e Francisco Franco Museum, which is dedicated to two Madeiran brothers who were prominent on the Portuguese art scene in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

5. There’s something for everyone

The main reason I think Madeira is such a top holiday destination is that there’s so much variety on the island. Whether you’re travelling with your partner for a romantic getaway, taking the kids for a family vacation or escaping with a group of friends, there will be something to suit you here.

I’ve been traveling the world together with my boyfriend almost constantly for the past 4 years, and from my travels I’ve realized just how much our culture shapes the way we design our homes.

Every country has its own beautiful and unique designs, and as I’m planning to finally settle down and find myself a home, I dream of bringing the many inspirations from countries all over the world into my new home.

There are always a few good things you can take from every culture and every country – here are some of my favorites…

Lanterns From Morocco

Nothing sets the mood and vibe of a room as much as the lighting – lighting is everything for a room, whether it’s an office or a lounge.

For a cozy atmosphere, Moroccan lanterns are your best friend – the patterns on these hand made lanterns create beautiful shadows on the walls, and they have that oriental exotic style making it look just magical.

Silk From Thailand

The beautiful colors and diversity of Thai silk makes it possible to use them for almost anything; duvet covers, pillows, curtains etc …

Tile Murals From Portugal

The houses lining the narrow, steep streets of Lisbon and Porto are covered in beautiful tiles that would be perfect for a kitchen and bathroom.

Artwork From Bali

Bali is an art lovers heaven, with every small village specializing in their own niche, from mosaics and wood carvings, to stone sculpture, mask making and painting.

The art skills are taught from father to son throughout the generations, and the art is unlike anything else – balinese art is beautiful to look at and tell some fascinating stories.

Tea Sets From Turkey

What I loved most about Turkey was the cozy cafes where you sit for hours sipping on a glass of tea surrounded by people smoking water-pipes.

The tea was always served in beautiful tea sets, and I quickly decided that I’d go back there to buy one once I had settled down somewhere.

Flower Decorations From Germany

Walking along the cobbled streets of Garmisch-Partenkirchen in Germany, the beautiful frescoe paintings and the cozy alpine cottages really make you feel like you’ve stepped into a fairy tale.

However, it’s their love for flowers that got me inspired – every window on every house is adorned with overflowing flower-boxes in red, pink and yellow flowers.

Modern Designs From Finland

I was not at all surprised to find out that Helsinki was named World Design Capital 2012 – it truly is a design city at heart.

Finnish designers are masters at twisting the traditional into something new and fascinating, always with a playful angle.

From the bright, bold and simplistic Marimekko prints and the soft “less is more” glass designs from iittala, to the Rock Church in Helsinki, they know how to make something look amazing and still be very functional.

Which countries inspire you when it comes to designing your perfect home?

If you ever want to be reminded just how incredible this world is, visiting one of the world’s many natural wonders is probably the most effective ways to do it…

Northern Lights – Alaska

Those lucky few who have the opportunity to see the northern lights are truly up for a “light performance” out of this world.

Throughout history, this magical phenomenon has been explained in many ways.

Some believed they were torches held in the hands of Spirits seeking the souls of those who had just died, to lead them over the abyss terminating the edge of the world.

After centuries of asking the question “what are the northern lights”, we have discovered that they were really just collisions between electrically charged particles from the sun that enter the earth’s atmosphere.

But the lights are nevertheless captivating, and if you want to see them for yourself the best place to see the northern lights would be in Alaska, northernmost Scandinavia, Iceland or Greenland.

Stromboli Volcano Island – Italy

Wouldn’t it be the most amazing experience to see an active volcano spewing out lava and ashes in full action?

Well, this is possible on the small island Stromboli off the coast of Sicily, and the best way to see the natural fireworks is to take a boat trip around the island in the evening.

Preikestolen – Norway

Many people claim that Norway is the most beautiful country in the world, and every year people visit Norway to explore the fjords and mountains that make up this stunning place.

One of the most popular natural wonders of Norway i Preikestolen, a flat plateau with a 604 meter drop into Lysefjord – with no safety railings.

The cliff was formed during the Ice age, about 10,000 years ago, and every year hundreds of thousands of tourists visit the plateau.

You get the most amazing view over the colorful landscape surrounding the plateu, and it’s well worth the 3.8 km hike to get there.

Before you head to this beautiful Caribbean island you need to know a few things, the most important being, Jamaica is a huge island.

Before you book your hotel, hostel or villa, you’ll need to figure out which part of the island you wish to stay in.

If in doubt, it’s hard to go wrong with the Montego Bay / Negril area.

Because Jamaica is so large there are naturally many sites and activities to see and do.

With direct flights available to Montego Bay from many major North American cities, this region is one of Jamaica’s most accessible and a great place to begin your stay.

I was fortunate to have stayed in one of the 
villas in Montego Bay Jamaica.
If you’re anything like me, after a day or two lounging by your private pool, drinking Red Stripes you’ll most likely want to venture out.

Some sights and activities to consider are:

Golf at Rose Hall

If you love golf, you’ll really love this area.

With over 54 holes (yes, not a typo) to choose from, indulge in as much golf as you can handle with the Cinnamon Hill, White Witch and Half-Moon golf courses.

For the best value, consider booking twilight rates.

Rick’s Cafe

If flashy clubs aren’t your thing but partying is, take a short drive to Rick’s Cafe.

This has become a must-see spot on the Western part of the island.

People come here to have drinks, swim, dance, socialize and the highlight is watching brave men and women jump off cliffs into the ocean.

You’ll notice a very high tree with dollar signs on it. Tip a local jumper enough and they’ll dive off into the water below!

Doctor’s Cave Beach

Yes, chilling on a beach is an activity….especially in Jamaica!

One if not the most popular beach in Montego Bay, Doctor’s Cave Beach is the place to relax, sunbath, and enjoy your time off.

Be warned though, some days (i.e. cruise ship days) this beach can be crowded at times.

But this is what happens when something is worth seeing right?

Half Moon

If you’re not already staying at Half Moon, it might be worth it to stop by and experience this vast resort even for the day.

Play tennis, golf, pamper yourself with massages, or go horseback riding along the beach!

Martha Brae River

It’s no Grand Canyon but hey, you’re in the Caribbean!

Head down to the rafting village where your captain will take you down the Martha Brae River in 30’ long bamboo rafts.

It’s really an ideal activity for couples who want to casually float down the river.

There’s plenty to choose from while vacationing in Jamaica.

You can use this as a starting point, but don’t be afraid to ask around once you’re on the island… Sometimes the best trips or places to see are the ones we never planned on doing!

A Montreal-based blogger and entrepreneur, Jazz Poulin is a regular contributor to the Luxury Retreats travel blog. When he’s not writing about villas in Jamaica, you’ll most likely find him traveling or on the rugby pitch.

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When I met Nathan a couple of years back, he told me that one of his dreams was to bike around Europe for a month or so.

While he hasn’t yet gotten around to do it, the idea is still there, although we are now much more interested in biking through a country rather than a whole continent.

Here is a list of great destinations we would love to explore by bike:

France

Cycling holidays in France are very popular, and there are so many places to go that I’ve found it very hard to decide exactly where I would most like to visit.

Since I figured that a bit of wine tasting would be nice, Provence would be a perfect area for a cycling tour.

With a vast variety of landscapes, you bike through lush valleys and semi-desert scrubland, sunflower fields and vineyards, deep green valleys and towering mountains – in short, you get to see some of the country’s most dramatic scenery.

New Zealand

Cycling around New Zealand is actually pretty popular.

For those interested in cycling holidays there are tours available where a car takes all of your luggage while you bike, and whenever you get tired you can ride parts of the way in the car to rest.

Some parts of the routes are more beautiful than others, so why waste your energy on the boring parts when you can save it for the best parts and enjoy the most of your journey?

Burma

Burma is high on our list of places, and we have read and heard over and over about how the best way to explore the country is by bicycle.

In the laid back atmosphere of the rural countryside, you bike through some incredible landscapes, explore hill tribes and hidden temples along the way.

These three destinations are so different from each other, which is why it would be so cool to explore all of them.

All of these countries can be cycled through either independently or by tour. Which would you prefer?

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The lowdown: In case you’re not too familiar with the destination, the Maldives is an archipelago of around 1,000 isles in the Indian Ocean.

Known for its stunning scenery, gorgeous beaches and fantastic water sport opportunities, it’s becoming an increasingly popular place among couples who fancy getting away from it all in a massively romantic setting.

1) Tropical Weather

Ok, so everyone’s idea of romance is a little bit different – for most of us, though (and I know I’m generalising), a romantic getaway needs to have sunshine and gorgeous scenery, preferably with some idyllic beaches thrown in for good measure.

If that’s the kind of thing you’re after, the Maldives is a total winner.

Its year-round average temperature is 28 degrees C, though it’s typically hottest in March and April.

So, you’re never going to get chilly here.

That said, it’s worth bearing in mind there are two monsoon seasons; the south-west monsoon can cause heavy showers between June and August, while the north-west monsoon affects November through to April.

2) Seclusion

One of the things that makes the Maldives stand out as a romantic destination is the legislation that prevents more than one resort per island.

Who’d have thought the law had such a romantic side – what this means for you is that each island has a really peaceful, private feel to it, so you and your partner can feel like you have a paradise island all to yourselves – perfect.

3) Luxurious Hotels

So, the Maldives offers couples privacy, balmy climes and beautiful scenery.

The icing on the cake is that it’s home to some absolutely gorgeous, lavish hotels that really make all the difference when it comes to hitting the right romantic note.

There are so many options that offer a really impressive degree of luxury, but I think when it comes to catering for couples there is one that really stand out: The Adaaran Prestigal Vadoo, situated on South Male Atoll.

This wonderfully luxurious, all-inclusive resort consists of a variety of private villas, and has some amazing features, like a private butler service, spa, fine cuisine and an infinity pool.

Think that’s impressive? There’s more to come.

The hotel even has its own reef, which means you can go scuba diving or snorkelling here without having to leave the resort.

In terms of things to do, there are lots of water sports on offer (it’s worth remembering that there is sometimes an additional charge for trying these out), including waterskiing, windsurfing and canoeing. Since the island is famous for its all but untouched coral reefs, it’s a particularly lovely spot for diving.

It’s quite easy as the country is very small, so you won’t waste much time on the transport, but will be able to get a whole lot done in just a week.

Here are a few experiences to look forward to on a visit to Belgium…

Capture Picture Perfect Graslei

Graslei and Korenlei are two picture perfect streets of Ghent, a fun city with a young vibe.

These two streets are a lovely place to be during sunny summer days, sipping on some Belgian beer at one of the many cafes and terraces by the water.

Sample The Drinks & Food

Belgium has some seriously good food, and they’re famous for their pubs and good beer.

It’s not the country with the most healthy foods, but who cares?

Unbuckle that belt, and spoil yourself with Belgian frittes, Belgian waffles, Belgian beer, and of course loads of Belgian chocolate!

Gluttany is no sin on a holiday to Belgium, it’s a way of experiencing the culture!

Walk The Streets Of Bruges

There is a good reason why the center of Bruges is a UNESCO Heritage Site; the place is like a fairytale that brings your imagination back centuries in the past.

It is truly one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, and with its historic houses, old cobbles streets and canals are encircled inside the city walls, and there are plenty of museums, shops, churches, cafes and – again, lots of chocolate shops, to keep you busy.

Visit Brussels Square

Known as the most beautiful square in Europe, the Brussels Square is definitely a place to be enjoyed.

Chocolate boutiques, restaurants and bars line up in the old, beautiful buildings that give the square its charm.

It is especially beautiful in August, as colorful flowers are laid in patterns like a carpet across the whole square – a wonderful sight to behold.

Get Cultural In Antwerp

Antwerp is often referred to as the “birthplace of Rubens”, and there is a bronze statue dedicated to this great 17th century artist at the Green Square in the heart of the city.

Today, Rubens home has turned into one of the most popular museums in Belgium.

But the city has so much more than that.

It is a very happening place, and thanks to its long and culturally rich history, it has become quite a trendy city in the culture section, attracting a lot of Flemish and foreign artists, writers, intellectuals, and actors.

So in Antwerp, you’ll find a great mix of old and new, with beautiful historic houses and fascinating museums like Middelheim Museum, along with Het Muntplein where graffiti artists are allowed to make their art.

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