Archive for March, 2010

You’ve probably heard the term ‘staycation’ being thrown about in the last couple of years. Since the recession hit many families and couples have been finding it harder and harder to get abroad for a holiday. It’s simply been too expensive. Because of this many have decided to take ‘staycations,’ which are holidays taken within the country you reside, in parks, leisure centres and holiday cottages. Staycations offer a host of benefits to those who take them: 1) Significantly reduced travel stress associated with airports and other terminals 2) Supportive of local industries and small suppliers 3) Massively more cost-effective then holidays abroad – with the costs of air travel and transfers a 10 day family holiday could easily stretch to £5000. 4) A chance to explore your own country – every country is beautiful, and how much of the UK have you actually experienced? You wouldn’t think it immediately, but the UK is actually one of the most perfect countries for the family or couple looking to take a staycation trip together. From the misty air of the Scottish Highlands to postcard-perfect South Devon you’ll be able to visit some of the most beautiful places and stay in timeless properties full of rustic features including roaring fires and Tudor beams. And if you’re looking for an activity-rich trip you can rent holiday cottages in the UK nearby classic, charming locations that offer delights such as fishing, zip lining, pony riding and kayaking. Check out our self-catering holiday cottages in England for some immediate inspiration….

Shadow Chancellor George Osborne recently pledged to reverse Alistair Darling’s decision to abolish tax breaks for furnished holiday cottages should the Conservatives win the next general election. The decision is part of a major tourist-led package that could be worth over £1.1bn to the South West tourism. In a speech centered on the Tories’ approach to tourism, Mr. Osborne claimed that increasing the number of Britons using holiday cottages from 38 to 50% would provide an extra £6.5bn to the UK economy. Expert tax advice provided to the Shadow Treasury has apparently revealed the Tories can reverse Mr Darling’s plans in a way that is ‘fiscally neutral.’ In April last year, Darling unveiled plans to scrap valuable tax incentives for home owners renting our their properties to tourists. The plans gave owners relief on income tax, capital gains tax, inheritance tax and pension contributions. The law changes on April 1st, yet there has been significant backlash from the holiday cottage community that believes scrapping the plans will turn respectable businesses into amateurs. The Treasury has blamed European law, which prevents tax relief being given to owners of holiday homes in the UK but not to Britons renting properties abroad. The Tories’ decision should be welcome news to holiday cottage owners and Britons interested in taking more ‘staycations’ – if you’d like to find out more take a look at our holiday cottages in Ireland for some delightful inspiration direct from the Emerald Isle!

If you’ve ever used Google Street View, you’ll know it’s a pretty incredible program, allowing you to view streets throughout the UK in 360 glory. The photos are taken using specially designed cars fitted with several cameras, GPS sensors, infrared sensors and a host of other features you’d only expect Google to come out with. You’ve probably got a friend or two who claim they can be seen on Google Street View, and several more who saw the trademark cars nipping around the UK taking photos. Street View is great just to check out your favourite places and explore them from the warmth and comfort of your own home. It’s also perfect if you’re looking around for your next holiday cottage stay and want to check out the local area to ensure it’s perfect for you and your family. For fun, Google hosts an annual ceremony that awards UK streets prizes based on a nationwide poll, with selections chosen from a expert-picked shortlist of 48 locations. The poll was supported by a number of industry players including Lonely Planet, Harden’s Guide and VisitBritain. The most beautiful street in the United Kingdom was named as The Shambles, York (see the picture!). A stunning street filled with ‘ye olde’ architecture and vibrant colours The Shambles is the perfect location for couples looking for a traditional taste of England that they’ll remember for years to come. Another top rated street was Milsom Street in Bath, which won the “Best Fashion Street” category. Food maestros should check out Stockbridge…