February 5th, 2010 by admin
The latest British Behaviour Abroad report released by the FCO pinpoints two areas of rising concern, namely motorbike and moped accidents and the rising number of arrests abroad.
Thailand tops the list on accidents with 269 British deaths there in 2008. The figures mean that Thailand has the highest rate of deaths in proportion to the number of British tourists of any country worldwide. In the same period, an estimated 860,000 British tourists visited Thailand. The majority of 324 reported hospitalisations in Thailand were due to motorbike accidents and a high proportion are fatal.
Thailand has one of the world’s highest road traffic accident rates, almost all of which involve motorbikes. Thai law stating that safety helmets must be worn is widely ignored, according to the FCO, which contributes to the high number of deaths each year. On average 38 people a day die in motorcycle accidents abroad in Thailand. Further to that, some vehicles are not road worthy. The FCO says that many of the motorcycles and scooters that are available for hire in beach resorts are unregistered and cannot legally be driven on a public road. This could invalidate any travel insurance policy should the driver wish to make a claim.
On the subject of travel insurance, the report found that financial pressures are causing many British holidaymakers to forgo travel insurance in a bid to save money. The Foreign Office empahasize that getting comprehensive travel insurance means that, whilst an accident may disrupt your holiday, it won’t bankrupt you in extortionate medical or repatriation bills.
Equally worrying is the rising number of arrests abroad, with Spain a particular hotspot, where 2,032 Britons were arrested last year. This is higher than any other country, although, as a proportion of visitor numbers, the highest number of arrests was in the UAE followed by Thailand. The majority of arrests are drug-related, with one in seven relating to illegal substances. This is particularly so in Thailand where a quarter of arrests were due to drugs. The UAE also has a low tolerance of drugs, according to the FCO. Many Britons arrested in the UAE are transit passengers, who fall foul of the country’s strict drug laws, which prohibit some prescription drugs that are legal in the UK.
January 11th, 2010 by admin
Venice has become a notoriously pricey destination for holiday-goers over the last decade but staying in budget accommodation doesn’t have to be an unpleasant experience. The city is home to a wide range of upmarket and boutique hostels which are not only affordable but funky crash pads to rest your head for the night. Here at Celestial Seas we have picked some of the best:
Locanda Art Deco
If art deco is your thing, this funky period residence located in the San Marco district houses a unique range of art deco furnishings and just a five minute walk from the ever-popular St Marks Square. Prices start at 30euros per person per night, leaving plenty of spare cash for an evening out on the town.
Alla Vite Dorata
If you want to experience charming Venetian hospitality at its most authentic then the recently restored Alla Vite Dorata provides the perfect retreat. Conveniently located just two steps from the Rialto bridge in the heart of Venice’s historic quarter, guests can enjoy being right in the hub of the city. Admire the restored beams in the rooms, some even boasting that quintessential Venetian canal view - all at a snip starting at just 35euro per person per night.
Ca’ Arco Antico Guesthouse
If you want a slice of Venice’s historic charm without compromising on a comfortable, contemporary place to stay, this charming Venetian guesthouse tastefully combines both old and new without costing the earth. Just a stone’s throw from the Basilica of the Frari, the Grand Canal and the thriving Rialto market and bridge, you’ll be spoilt for choice for things to do nearby. It is also a great spot if you’re staying during the History Regatta, being right in the hub of all the action. Prices start at a welcoming 30euros per person per night.
And finally, just as accommodation in Venice can be a pricey affair unless you do your research, dining out can also be notoriously expensive unless you know where you’re going. Avoid the tourist-thronged Venice restaurants in the Rialto and Piazza San Marco areas – these tend to be over-priced and disappointing. Instead, head for smaller, more authentic neighbourhood ‘trattorias’ off the beaten path. A general rule of thumb is if it’s popular with the locals, the food will be of a higher quality and usually less expensive. Try the Dorsoduro or San Polo areas which offer a more rustic experience at a snip of the price.
December 11th, 2008 by admin
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