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The Rising Popularity of the UK Short Break

The forecast for the UK economic is certainly gloomy and the gloriously sunny times we’ve been enjoying are coming to end – for the foreseeable future anyway. Throughout the country UK households are struggling cope with rising living costs and budgets are being squeezed.

In light of this, many are looking for cost savings, from giving up some of life’s luxuries such as gym membership to doing the weekly shop at some of the UK’s budget supermarkets. Surely holidays are another luxury that would be first to go? While the traditional two week holiday is becoming somewhat of a rarity, it seems us Brits are loathe to give up on our leisure time altogether. Instead many are opting for short breaks within the UK, turning their attention to the many varied destinations on the doorstep.

The UK short break market has seen a steady increase of around 5-6% as British people take into account the many factors affecting the household budget and reassess the viability of holidaying abroad. While general household costs continue to rise on an almost weekly basis, a host of other reasons are also putting people off an overseas holiday, including the strengthening Euro.

Cheap flights are also becoming a thing of the past and with the well-documented environmental impact of air travel is also affecting people’s decision on where to holiday. Many are considering the environmental impact of their holiday choices, as global warming becomes an increasing reality.

Considering all these factors, the UK short break market becomes a tempting proposition – no flights, no unpleasant exchange rates, less travel and all for less money. This trend amongst the British public has been reinforced by the Prime Minister’s choice to holiday in beautiful Southwold in Suffolk, while Tony Blair chose Rick Stein’s culinary home of Padstow. Many it seems are embracing the new ‘stay-cation’ – to holiday in the UK.

More central destinations are attracting the most holidaymakers, as people are also taking into account the costs of petrol. The peak district, East Anglia and Dorset are among the most popular and potential visitors are getting a surprise when they look into accommodation and holiday options available to them. UK operators have worked constantly to improve the quality of the UK short break experience and compete with the overseas market. As such holidaymakers are now being offered a much better range from cosy cottages nestled in the Lake District to 5-star holiday resorts for an all inclusive family breaks.

The UK has also a terrific range of cities to explore and luxury city breaks are also a popular choice to divulge in art, culture, shopping, and sightseeing. Cities such as Liverpool, Bath, York, and London, of course, tick all of the boxes, but there is another city that perhaps doesn’t spring immediately to mind but is full of delightful surprises.

Nestled in the home of the Norfolk Broads, Norwich is often sadly overlooked. Once famous for having a pub for each day of the year and a church for every week, this Norfolk city is a short break destination not to be missed. It has deep historical roots; one of the UK’s most stunning cathedrals, along with some very modern shopping that is sure to please.

Like many of the UK’s cities there is also a wide range of accommodation. From cosy bed and breakfasts to the no-frills hotel chains, there is something for everyone. One hotel that stands out from the crowd is Barnham Broom Hotel. It has an exceptional countryside setting yet with all the buzz of the city minutes away plus the benefit of outstanding facilities and warm, welcoming staff.

Guests staying at the hotel can take full advantage of the excellent leisure facilities, that include two championship golf courses and a health and leisure centre with a well-located swimming pool overlooking the grounds. After working up an appetite, the excellent two AA rosette restaurant is the perfect place to dine where a wonderful selection of carefully prepared dishes, made from locally sourced produce will be waiting to tempt you.

So make the most of the UK and explore a different destination as part of a short break.

About the Author

Lindsay Chapman is the author of this article. For more about Barnham Broom Hotel and visiting Norfolk visit: www.barnham-broom.co.uk

Log Cabin Short Breaks – Great Places to Relax and Unwind

Debbie Xenia Hotel Apartments, Paralimni: 7 nights Self Catering $550 The Debbie Xenia Hotel Apartments are located in the Pernera Bay area of Protaras on the island of Cyprus, only 300 metres away from the beach. There are a selection of shops, supermarkets, bars and tavernas all within 200 metres of the Xenia Hotel. Protaras is the ideal choice for families and couples looking for a relaxing break in the sun with everything at your doorstep. This 3 star Cyprus aparthotel is 30 miles from the airport, which means that it will take around an hour to transfer to Protaras. Debbie Xenia consists of 35 air-conditioned studios and apartments that are spacious and bright inside and all have a telephone, a kitchenette, en-suite facilities and a balcony/terrace. Onsite there is a fresh water swimming pool and kid???s pool surrounded by a sun terrace with loungers. Free wi-fi is available in all public areas of the hotel. There is also a games room, currency exchange, bicycle and motorbike hire, and 24hr reception for those of you who want to check out the nightlife in the resort whilst on your Cyprus holiday. For golden sandy beaches lapped by warm clear turquoise waters, historic sites, bustling beach resorts, traditional inland villages and fascinating countryside to explore, head to Cyprus. Family holidays will enjoy the water parks, fun fairs, excursions, water sports, cycling, horse riding and excellent family-orientated resort amenities. Xenia Hotel is a short walk from all the amenities in the resort and the closest beach where chilling out in the sunshine is a must on your holidays to Cyprus. You could try some of the water sports on offer including paragliding, windsurfing, jet skiing and water skiing during your stay at the Debbie Xenia Hotel Apartments. Protaras has a number of beaches such as Fig Tree and Flamingo beach or if you???re after something a bit quieter head to the Green Bay Beach. If you???re after something to do with the kids on your holidays, Protaras offers glass-bottomed boat trips where you can explore the seabed or for something more sedate you could try a pedalo. For those of you who are in to hiking, there are some excellent coastal paths worth checking out where you can marvel at the views and see some Roman ruins en route. The lively resort of Ayia Napa is only 9 miles away, an ideal spot to head for a lively night out on your holiday at the Debbie Xenia Hotel in Cyprus. A holiday at the Debbie Xenia Hotel Apartments is the right choice for couples and families looking for cheap holidays to Cyprus with comfortable and flexible accommodation close to the beach and the resort centre. Facilities Studios sleep 2 ??? 3 people One bedroom apartments sleep 2 ??? 4 people All have – bathroom/shower ??? WC ??? air conditioning – telephone ??? kitchenette – balcony/terrace – (certain amenities may be payable locally) Eating and Drinking The Debbie Xenia has a pool view restaurant and a separate bar for refreshments. Bed & Breakfast and Half Board are available at a supplement. B&

Debbie Xenia Hotel Apartments, Paralimni: 7 nights Bed and Breakfast $664 The Debbie Xenia Hotel Apartments are located in the Pernera Bay area of Protaras on the island of Cyprus, only 300 metres away from the beach. There are a selection of shops, supermarkets, bars and tavernas all within 200 metres of the Xenia Hotel. Protaras is the ideal choice for families and couples looking for a relaxing break in the sun with everything at your doorstep. This 3 star Cyprus aparthotel is 30 miles from the airport, which means that it will take around an hour to transfer to Protaras. Debbie Xenia consists of 35 air-conditioned studios and apartments that are spacious and bright inside and all have a telephone, a kitchenette, en-suite facilities and a balcony/terrace. Onsite there is a fresh water swimming pool and kid???s pool surrounded by a sun terrace with loungers. Free wi-fi is available in all public areas of the hotel. There is also a games room, currency exchange, bicycle and motorbike hire, and 24hr reception for those of you who want to check out the nightlife in the resort whilst on your Cyprus holiday. For golden sandy beaches lapped by warm clear turquoise waters, historic sites, bustling beach resorts, traditional inland villages and fascinating countryside to explore, head to Cyprus. Family holidays will enjoy the water parks, fun fairs, excursions, water sports, cycling, horse riding and excellent family-orientated resort amenities. Xenia Hotel is a short walk from all the amenities in the resort and the closest beach where chilling out in the sunshine is a must on your holidays to Cyprus. You could try some of the water sports on offer including paragliding, windsurfing, jet skiing and water skiing during your stay at the Debbie Xenia Hotel Apartments. Protaras has a number of beaches such as Fig Tree and Flamingo beach or if you???re after something a bit quieter head to the Green Bay Beach. If you???re after something to do with the kids on your holidays, Protaras offers glass-bottomed boat trips where you can explore the seabed or for something more sedate you could try a pedalo. For those of you who are in to hiking, there are some excellent coastal paths worth checking out where you can marvel at the views and see some Roman ruins en route. The lively resort of Ayia Napa is only 9 miles away, an ideal spot to head for a lively night out on your holiday at the Debbie Xenia Hotel in Cyprus. A holiday at the Debbie Xenia Hotel Apartments is the right choice for couples and families looking for cheap holidays to Cyprus with comfortable and flexible accommodation close to the beach and the resort centre. Facilities Studios sleep 2 ??? 3 people One bedroom apartments sleep 2 ??? 4 people All have – bathroom/shower ??? WC ??? air conditioning – telephone ??? kitchenette – balcony/terrace – (certain amenities may be payable locally) Eating and Drinking The Debbie Xenia has a pool view restaurant and a separate bar for refreshments. Bed & Breakfast and Half Board are available at a supplement. B&

Debbie Xenia Hotel Apartments, Paralimni: 3 nights Self Catering $514 The Debbie Xenia Hotel Apartments are located in the Pernera Bay area of Protaras on the island of Cyprus, only 300 metres away from the beach. There are a selection of shops, supermarkets, bars and tavernas all within 200 metres of the Xenia Hotel. Protaras is the ideal choice for families and couples looking for a relaxing break in the sun with everything at your doorstep. This 3 star Cyprus aparthotel is 30 miles from the airport, which means that it will take around an hour to transfer to Protaras. Debbie Xenia consists of 35 air-conditioned studios and apartments that are spacious and bright inside and all have a telephone, a kitchenette, en-suite facilities and a balcony/terrace. Onsite there is a fresh water swimming pool and kid???s pool surrounded by a sun terrace with loungers. Free wi-fi is available in all public areas of the hotel. There is also a games room, currency exchange, bicycle and motorbike hire, and 24hr reception for those of you who want to check out the nightlife in the resort whilst on your Cyprus holiday. For golden sandy beaches lapped by warm clear turquoise waters, historic sites, bustling beach resorts, traditional inland villages and fascinating countryside to explore, head to Cyprus. Family holidays will enjoy the water parks, fun fairs, excursions, water sports, cycling, horse riding and excellent family-orientated resort amenities. Xenia Hotel is a short walk from all the amenities in the resort and the closest beach where chilling out in the sunshine is a must on your holidays to Cyprus. You could try some of the water sports on offer including paragliding, windsurfing, jet skiing and water skiing during your stay at the Debbie Xenia Hotel Apartments. Protaras has a number of beaches such as Fig Tree and Flamingo beach or if you???re after something a bit quieter head to the Green Bay Beach. If you???re after something to do with the kids on your holidays, Protaras offers glass-bottomed boat trips where you can explore the seabed or for something more sedate you could try a pedalo. For those of you who are in to hiking, there are some excellent coastal paths worth checking out where you can marvel at the views and see some Roman ruins en route. The lively resort of Ayia Napa is only 9 miles away, an ideal spot to head for a lively night out on your holiday at the Debbie Xenia Hotel in Cyprus. A holiday at the Debbie Xenia Hotel Apartments is the right choice for couples and families looking for cheap holidays to Cyprus with comfortable and flexible accommodation close to the beach and the resort centre. Facilities Studios sleep 2 ??? 3 people One bedroom apartments sleep 2 ??? 4 people All have – bathroom/shower ??? WC ??? air conditioning – telephone ??? kitchenette – balcony/terrace – (certain amenities may be payable locally) Eating and Drinking The Debbie Xenia has a pool view restaurant and a separate bar for refreshments. Bed & Breakfast and Half Board are available at a supplement. B&

Aguamarina Club Hotel, Arenal Den Castell: 10 nights Half Board $2416 The Aguamarina Club Hotel is on the north coast of the island close to the vast bay of Arenal d’en Castell and overlooking the sandy beach to which the hotel enjoys direct access. There are plenty of shops and restaurants in the resort centre which is just a short stroll from the hotel. The resort itself is built around a near circular cove and has a long stretch of sandy beach Mahon, the lively capital of the island, is approximately 13 miles away and there is a stop for public transport just in front of the hotel with a regular bus service. This property will appeal to couples and families looking for comfortable accommodation from which to enjoy a relaxing beach based break in Menorca. Facilities All have * bathroom/shower * WC * TV * telephone * balcony/terrace * (certain amenities may be payable locally) Eating and Drinking The hotel has a restaurant, bar and poolside snack bar.

Cala Sant Vicenc, Cala San Vicente: 3 nights Bed and Breakfast $690 The Hotel Cala Sant Vicenc is quite simply charming! The hotel combines the best of Mallorca; comfort and relaxation in lovely surroundings; attractive architecture combined with local furnishings; excellent service and wonderfully friendly staff! The perfect hotel for a short break, or a relaxing get away from it all holiday. Standard and Superior rooms are attractive and comfortable with full bathroom, balcony or terrace, satellite TV, fridge, hairdryer, desk and chair, slippers, umbrella, heating or air conditioning. Superior rooms have twin or king size beds and a separate sitting area. Junior Suites have all of the above along with a separate terrace and are for up to 3 people. Half board is on an a la Carte basis. 86 90 Guests may select their breakfast from an ample buffet. – 45mins / 65km Airport – Cala Molins beach 300 yards – small number of local shops and bars – 6km historical Town of Pollensa – 8km Puerto de Pollensa – 24 hour reception – Swimming pool with sunbeds and parasols – Poolside Terrace Bar – Room service – Wi-fi in public areas – Gardens – A la Carte restaurant ‘Carvall Bernat’ – Trattoria – Fitness Area with exercise machines – sauna – a wide variety of beauty treatments available ***extra cost applicable*** LoungeSunbedsSaunaFitness room / GymCustomer Lifts

Los Lentiscos Apartments, Punta Prima: 7 nights Self Catering $960 Los Lentiscos Apartments is a delightful complex welcoming couples and families for a relaxing summer holiday in Menorca. Open from 1st May to 31st October, the popular apartments are a short walking distance to Cala En Forcat beach and to Cala En Blanes, a livelier resort. Los Lentiscos is enjoyed by guests who combine enjoyment of the super facilities on-site with fun at the beach and various tourist spots. A warm and friendly atmosphere and lovely Mediterranean surroundings ??? book the Los Lentiscos Apartments for a well deserved holiday in the sun! Getting to the hotel: 45 km from Menorca International Airport – Local Tips: Local restaurants and shopping facilities are walking distance and Menorca central town is about 5km with an array of shopping and entertainment options. This complex offers independence and comfort for a relaxing sunshine break. Food, drink and entertainment: Restaurant, snack bar, caf?, pool bar, entertainment programme. Sport, games and activities: 2 outdoor swimming pools, garden, solarium with chairs and parasols, sauna, hydro-massage, Jacuzzi, equipped gym, football court, tennis court, billiards, snooker, bike rental, beach water sports. For the kids: 2 wading pools, children’s play area, entertainment programme. Additional: 24 hour Front Desk, house-keeping, Concierge, disabled access, currency exchange, wireless internet access in reception and pool bar, safe box, minimarket, laundry room, car rental, free parking. Guest accommodation comprises bright modern apartments of one or two bedrooms with a private balcony or terrace, some with sea view, living room, bathroom, kitchenette including microwave, ceramic hob, kettle, toaster and mini fridge, writing desk, TV with Pay per View, wireless internet access, direct dial telephone, safe box, fan, tea/coffee maker, hair dryer and ironing facilities and baby crib on request.

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Killer Dana Beach Break Board Short $32 Killer Dana Beach Break Board Short

Hesperia Lanzarote, Puerto Calero: 3 nights Bed and Breakfast $798 The luxurious Hesperia Lanzarote is a fantastic choice for those seeking a break in stunning

Greenworld 1brm4, Icmeler: 7 nights Self Catering $642 “”"Surrounded by pine forests, these apartments offer a back-to-nature break.”

Christmas Break $4.79 Phoebe is headed home for the holidays. But the weather has other plans. A blizzard, a handsome stranger, and lots of "live saving sex" are going to make this a holiday to remember. Warning: This title contains graphic language and sex.

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Corona Blanca, Playa Del Ingles: 7 nights Self Catering $644 The Corona Blanca Apartments provide a great base to spend a self-catering break, whether

Kastalia Std3, Kamisiana: 7 nights Self Catering $858 “”"Whether you want a simple break in the Mediterranean sun, or a unique base from which to v”

Royal Kostas Studio3, Polychrono: 7 nights Self Catering $724 “”"This place has got everything you need for a family break – a great location, a rel”

San Diego Hotel, Arenal: 7 nights Self Catering $524 The San Diego Hotel sits at the end of a 3 mile long promenade and is approximately 8 miles from the centre of Palma. The hotel overlooks the Playa de Palma beach. Aquacity, the largest waterpark in Europe is also in the area. The San Diego Hotel is located on the long promenade that backs the beautiful sandy Playa De Palma beach, with plenty of water sports to try including windsurfing, water skiing and scuba diving. Why not take a walk along the promenade and try some of the local dishes in one of the restaurants or grab a cold drink at one of the bars just a short walk from the San Diego Hotel. Majorca family holidays will enjoy taking the mini train to neighbouring C???an Pastilla or a day at the largest water park in Europe located in the resort; Aquacity has over 20 water attractions providing the ultimate water park experience on your holidays to Majorca. If you want to experience some culture on your holidays, El Arenal is just 8-miles from the capital of Palma where you can see the gothic cathedral, walk around the museums with the kids, check out the aquarium or see the sites on an open top bus. If shopping is more your thing, then head to the city centre or grab a coffee in a local caf? and watch the world go by on your holiday at the San Diego Hotel in El Arenal. A great way to get around is to hire a car; why not explore the coastline or head inland to discover some of the ancient inland villages. When evening falls, there are plenty of bustling bars, pubs, karaoke bars, clubs and restaurants to keep you busy ??? so head to the San Diego Hotel in Majorca for your holidays this year. A holiday at the Hotel San Diego is the right choice for couples and families looking for cheap holidays to Majorca with comfortable beachfront accommodation located only minutes from the centre of the resort. Facilities All have – bathroom/shower – WC – telephone – satellite TV – hairdryer – safe – terrace/balcony – (certain amenities may be payable locally) Eating and Drinking The hotel has a buffet style restaurant, two bars and a cafe

Volcom Break It Down Short- Women’s $48 Volcom is an innovative designer, marketer and distributor of premium quality young mens and young womens clothing, accessories and related products under the Volcom brand name. Their products include t-shirts, fleece, bottoms, tops, jackets, boardshorts, denim and outerwear, incorporate distinctive combinations of fashion, functionality and athletic performance. They were founded in 1991 by Richard Woolcott and Tucker Hall in Orange County, California, the epicenter of boardsports culture. Since that time, Richard has led a committed and talented management team to create one of the leading boardsport brands in the world. Features:THE VOLCOM BREAK IT DOWN SHORT FEATURES 11 INCH INSEAM SHORT WITH ADJUSTABLE LENGTHVERTICAL ZIPPER DETAIL AT FRONTTRIGGER HIPPIE BANDANA TIES TO BELT LOOP3/4 STONE EMBROIDERY AT BACK RIGHT POCKET100% COTTON BROKEN TWILL

Hotel El Mouradi Skanes Beach, Skanes: 7 nights All Inclusive $760 The El Mouradi Skanes Beach Hotel is in Skanes overlooking the sea with direct access to the beach. There are a number of watersports to try on the beach including surfing, pedalos, sailing, canoes, jet skis, water skiing and diving. The resort has a selection of bars and restaurants and a quiet nightlife. The Hotel El Mouradi sits on the beachfront, so you won???t have to travel far to dip your toes in the warm waters. Why not try windsurfing, sailing, parasailing and kayaking or book some diving lessons to explore the underwater world on your holidays to Tunisia. El Mouradi Skanes Beach Hotel is ideally located close to two 18-hole Palm Links golf courses where you can practice your swing or improve your handicap. Why not head in to the historic port town of Monastir, check out the modern marina or walk around the medina, where Life of Brian and Raiders of the Lost Arc were filmed, on your Skanes holidays. Great things to do with the family on your Tunisia holidays include a trip to the Roman amphitheatre at El Jam, the pretty village of Sidi Bou Said, dolphin spotting boat trips or desert safaris. If you???re after a taste of culture and history on your holidays, Skanes is within easy reach of the Christian catacombs that date back to the 3rd century AD in Sousse, the Medina where you can check out the shops and the 9th century Great Mosque and the Kasbah with its archaeological museum ??? so get booking! A holiday at the Hotel El Mouradi is the right choice for families and couples looking for cheap all inclusive holidays to Tunisia with comfortable beachfront accommodation and plenty of onsite facilities. Facilities All El Mouradi Skanes Beach Hotel bedrooms have * balcony or terrace * bath/shower * WC * satellite TV * air conditioning * telephone * mini bar * safe * (certain amenities may be payable locally) Eating and Drinking The hotel has three restaurants including a buffet style restaurant, a cafe and a pizzeria. There are 5 bars including poolside bars and a beach bar. The hotels All Inclusive option includes breakfast from 6am to 10am, late breakfast from 10am to 11am, snacks between 11.30am and 4pm, buffet style lunch from 12.30pm to 2pm, coffee break from 4pm to 6pm, buffet style dinner between 6.30pm and 9pm and snacks between 10pm and midnight, gala dinner once per stay, lunch and dinner drinks include draught beer, wines, soft drinks, jus concentrates and mineral water, coffee break drinks include filter coffee, tea, milk, hot chocolate, aperitifs are available pre lunch and dinner and include pastis, anisette, boukha and cocktails, various bars serve coffee, tea, mint tea, Turkish coffee, milk, hot chocolate, local liquers, local appetisers, local spirits, draught beer, soft drinks, juice concentrates and mineral water between 9am and midnight. Bottled drinks, fresh juice and drinks at the nightclub are not included in the AI programme. *CHRISTMAS EVE AND NEW YEARS EVE GALA MEALS INCLUDED*