How to holiday on a budget

Heading off for a well-earned break can be as expensive as it is relaxing so it’s worth taking the time to research ways in which you can save money here and there so that you don’t make too much of a dent in your savings account when enjoying your holiday. There are a few simple steps you can take to reduce the cost, such as:

Shop around
Package deals may seem fantastic at first glance but be sure to check the alternatives. It’s often the case that you can get a cheaper deal by booking the flights/hotel individually. Also use comparison sites wherever possible to check that that great deal you’ve found can’t be beaten elsewhere.

Be flexibile
Where possible, don’t have a concrete set of dates in mind as you are likely to find a more favourable deal if you can go from midweek to midweek. It pays to be open-minded where possible – especially if you can stomach the thought of booking time off work but not knowing your destination until close to your departure time as you can find yourself some serious last-minute bargains.

Sign up for airline mailing lists
Get your name on as many of these lists as you can – you’ll be the first to find out about cheap flight deals and may just steal a march on others when it comes to bagging a bargain.

Take other costs into account
While flights and accommodation are clearly major factors in deciding your destination, you should also factor in general costs for while you’re away. If you’re planning to hit the town as much as possible while on holiday, for example, then be sure to research how expensive the average meal and/or drinks prices in your destination city are

Travel during off-peak times
It’s a fairly obvious one, but the most popular holiday months tend to be the most expensive as prices scale due to demand, so if you can manage to book your holiday towards the end of the summer or at some other, less popular, time of the year then it stands to reason that you’ll be in good shape to secure a reasonable deal.

Pre-book as much as you can
It pays to be prepared, so sort out your foreign currency, airport parking, car hire, etc. in as far advance of your trip as possible. All of these things will be significantly cheaper if you pre-book rather than just turning up on the day and paying the advertised price.

Travel light
Many airlines will charge for extra baggage, so don’t take what you don’t need. Also make sure to take full advantage of your carry on allowance to reduce the risk of going over the weight allowance with your checked-in luggage, which would otherwise incur a further charge.

Burj Dubai

Here are pictures and videos of the 7 star Burj Dubai, the tallest skyscraper in the world surpassing the KNLY-TV mast and costing an estimated $1billion to build.

Towering high above the Dubai skyline, Burj Dubai, the world's tallest man-made construction, edges closer to completion.

These stunning aerial and exclusive interior images provide a glimpse into the lavish creation which has cost an estimated UD$1 billion to build, with a further three billion budgeted for the entire complex.

Standing at a reported 818 m (the official height will not be revealed until next year) and consisting of 162 floors above ground, the giant tower - described as the 'jewel of the Gulf regions' - is an awesome sight to behold.

But while the exterior of the building has taken shape, interior shots suggest there is still some way to go before the official unveiling in January 2010.

Taken in November 2009, interior images display giant office spaces from the lofty 125th floor with vertigo-inducing views.

On floor 39, a luxury bathroom and entertainment area from the Armani Hotel provide an insight into what the rich and famous can expect upon their lavish stay.

Made up of 175 rooms, the 40,000 sq. m Armani Hotel, will be the first of its kind to open in the world.

Reports have suggested that Giorgio Armani himself will oversee all aspects of content, design and style, including interiors and amenities. And the fashion guru will be incorporating the his exclusive label's designs into the furnishings.

The statistics behind the mega structure are as impressive as the building itself. The rods that reinforce the structure weigh a total 31,400 tonnes alone. Laid end to end they would stretch more than a quarter of the way around the world.

The water system will supply 250,000 gallons each day and the tower's external surface is the size of 17 football fields. The building will have the worlds fastest elevators at speeds of 64 km/h (40 mph) or 18 m/s (59 ft/s).

The tower will include 800 private apartments and an observatory 442 metres above the ground on the 124th floor - the highest public observation desk in the world. There will be a club on floors 144 to 146.

Sitting at the foot of the tower is the 500 acre Downtown Burj Dubai development, which when completed is expected to cost around US$20 billion, offering 30,000 homes and the world's largest shopping mall - the Dubai Mall - covering 836,000 square metres. The Burj Dubai Mall will have areas for leisure, including a world-class aquarium, fashion show arena, a souk and an ice rink.

The Burj Dubai has been designed to be the centre of a large-scale, mixed-use development that will include 30,000 homes, 9 hotels, 6 acres of parkland, 19 residential towers, and the 12 hectare Burj Dubai Lake.

The mega structure has already achieved the distinction of being the world's tallest, surpassing the KNLY-TV mast (628.8m, 2,063ft) in North Dakota, USA

However, Dubai has been hit hard by the global downturn. This week, Dubai World, one of the emirate's main state holding companies, said it was asking for a delay on major parts of its debt repayments until at least May 30

Dubai was among the most dramatic victims of the credit crunch, with property prices halving from their highs in September 2008, leaving a huge overhang of debt

Dubai borrowed $80bn in a four-year construction spree designed to turn its economy into a Middle Eastern powerhouse of finance and tourism

Burj Dubai has also been hit by press reports of the poor conditions faced by its labourers, mostly immigrants from South Asia

Videos of Burj Dubai

On the top of Burj Dubai's spire....

Burj Dubai Promotial Video....

World Cup 2010 hints and tips

We have decided to put together some handy travel tips for those supporting England in World Cup 2010

Before you go…

Vaccinations
The old adage, safety first, is certainly the case when it comes to travelling beyond our shores, and a trip to South Africa means that you should factor vaccines into the equation too. It is recommended that you visit your local doctor or clinic 4-8 weeks before departure (so aiming to have this done by April 8th is a safe bet), where it is likely you’ll be advised to get vaccinated against Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B and Typhoid as well as taking medicine to protect you from the risk of Malaria.

Insurance
Now is also a good time to consider travel insurance. Research carefully to ensure you are covered for specifics such as cancelled flights or expensive items such as iPods and cameras, as well as general medical costs and repatriation. Be sure to get the best deal with comparison websites such as Confused.com and if you are planning a trip later in the year too it might be a good idea to purchase annual cover instead of single trip.

Accommodation
Forgive me for stating the obvious a moment, but booking your accommodation early is vital – and I expect you already have. If not, many hotels will be filling up fast and if you are considering camping during your trip you should probably bear in mind that June and July are the coldest months in the country with an average low of 8°C, and a likelihood that it will freeze in some places. You’ve heard about the Penguins at Boulders Beach, right?

Travel money
South Africa has witnessed considerable inflation over the past few years. As I write this you can get almost 12 Rand to 1 Pound Sterling which is pretty good for UK visitors. It is certainly worth getting your travel money before you catch your flight out, and even better to do so before you get to the airport. Again, research online can help you get the best deals and it may also be worth getting a travel money card for extra security.

Packing
Is your passport in date? Remember that it must be valid for 30 days after you plan to leave the country, and it can be a massive hassle to sort out if left to the last minute. Be sure to take warms clothes and any medication you might need, and any other travel documents for hire cars, insurance etc. And tickets!

Travelling…

Before you get on the plane
If you are driving to your flight out, Gatwick and Heathrow airport parking can be booked online at a competitive cost, with some even offering a valet service while you are away. Remember any public transport such as rail and coach travel is likely to be cheaper if you book in advance.

After you arrive
Travel in South Africa might need a little more planning. Despite significant investment in the infrastructure of the country for the event, hire car services are few and far between and many will have been booked-up already. If you are thinking about driving, cars keep to the left like the UK, but also be aware of the different South African road rules – especially when it comes to junctions! Public transport may be a better idea, and in many areas will get you to your destination quicker. However, remember to take into account the size of the country, and that it can take around a day to travel from Johannesburg to Cape Town.

When you’re there…

Drinking
And now the important information. South Africa is known for its party atmosphere and as long as you aren’t completely inebriated before a game, you should be set for a memorable (or not) trip. The really good news is the beer prices, according to pintprice.com a beer will rarely set you back more than £1 per pint with Johannesburg being the most expensive at £1.04 and smaller towns being around 60p a drink. The country is also well known for its wine – so those who don’t like beer should still be satisfied.

Food
The cost of food is a little closer to home. Despite this, eating out is very popular in South Africa and the cuisine is extremely diverse and worth a try. While the country itself is well-known for its barbecue culture and meats such as biltong and Boerewors, many European and Indian influences will mean there is enough recognizable food for the less-adventurous, and plenty of stuff for those who like it spicy.

Sights
In between games, the country is ripe for exploration. South Africa’s biggest city, Johannesburg is home to a vast selection of social and historical attractions to keep you busy. Alternatively, Cape Town is known for its beaches, Table Mountain and its surrounding wine regions. The country’s diverse landscape and bustling major cities will undoubtedly make you want to stay for another month!

Amazing Railway Journeys

As luxury travel goes, there's nothing like sitting back on a train and watching stunning scenery pass you by as you travel on your way to your destination. Here we feature some of the best railway journeys from around the world. Whilst tourists jump on a plane and cross continents in a matter of hours, great travellers have always identified the journey as the adventure. Planning a route via rail is a great way to appreciate the landscape, and many offer hop on/off options that navigate a number of countries – simply check you have visas where needed, that travel insurance covers all locations and you cash appropriate currency to cover multi-country trips.

Indian Narrow Gauge Railways
Installed by the British almost 100 years ago, there are thousands of miles of narrow gauge tracks in India, many of which journey to and between old colonial hill stations, and a few still run on steam.

Travelling to some of the highest stations in the country, the three famed hill routes are the Darjeeling Himalayan, the Kalka-Shimla, and the Nilgiri, all of which have been declared by UNESCO as world heritage properties.

Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Journey

Kalka Shimla Railway Journey

Nilgiri Steam Railway (India) Journey

Trans-Mongolian Railway
Traversing the entire breadth of Russia, through Mongolia to China, the Trans-Mongolian Railway crosses the Gobi Desert, the plains of Mongolia, and skirts the edge of Lake Baikal - UNESCO world heritage site and largest freshwater lake in the world.

Whilst the entire journey can take up to 10 days non-stop, there is the option to hop on and off, plus all manner of vodka related entertainment should you ever tire of the huge vistas.


Trans Mongolian Railway

Japanese Bullet Train
A trip to Japan wouldn’t be complete without a trip on a bullet train – travelling at speeds up to 300kph, the network connects all major cities on the islands of Honshū and Kyūshū. The Tokaido-Shinkansen route, which links Tokyo to Shin-Osaka, travels along the south coast edge of Honshū Island and is the most heavily travelled high-speed rail route in the world.

Stopping at Yokohama, Shin-Fuji and the temple city of Kyoto en route, the line totals 515.4km and is covered by high-speed services in 2 hours 25 minutes.

Japanese Bullet Train Journey

Orient Express
The Orient Express was laid to rest in December 1999, but its reputation as one of the most famed rail routes in the world lives on.

Opened in 1883, the original route ran from Paris to Vienna, with passengers chartered for Istanbul picking up an additional train and ferry to reach the Turkish capital – in 1889 the first non-stop train left Paris for Istanbul.

Over the years the route changed to encompass Northern Italy, Austria and Greece. Once simply a long-distance passenger train, the Orient Express eventually became associated with luxury travel and immortalised in all manner of popular culture.

Journey on Orient Express

Chinihuahua al Pacifico Railway
Traversing the Sierra Madres of Mexico, the construction of the Chinihuahua al Pacifico Railway took 100 years to complete and connects Chihuahua with the port at Topolobampo.

Climbing in excess of 8,000 feet above sea level, the track covers over 400 miles, travels over 36 bridges, through 87 tunnels and forest, mountain and canyons.


Chihuahua al Pacifico Railway Journey

10 Stunning Dog Friendly Holiday Homes in Devon and Cornwall

National Pet Month is almost upon us, and to celebrate Blue Chip Vacations have released its top ten dog-friendly holiday homes in Devon and Cornwall close to year round pro dog beaches. 

Blue Chip Vacations specialise in self catering holidays in Cornwall and Holidays in Devon with stunning luxury cottages and apartments throughout Devon and Cornwall.

With over 170 coastal and rural pet-friendly properties to choose from, dog owners will be spoilt for choice whenever they choose to take their four legged friend away for fun and frolics this year.

1.    Bow wow Wow!

Wow is a stunning contemporary two bedroom coastal apartment, which overlooks the glorious golden sands of Westward Ho! Beach.  While dog access is restricted close to the town, only a mile or so up the coast pets can roam free at the far end of the beach.  The stunning Saunton and Braunton beaches are also just a short drive up the coast, where over three miles of golden sands and sand dunes can be found to explore.

Wow possesses one of the most spectacular views in the South West, accentuated by a full length balcony that runs the length of the apartment, making the most of this exclusive location.

Inside, the living room has ceiling to floor glass windows, while both double bedrooms have amazing sea views and access to the balcony.  The kitchen has granite work tops, designer cabinet draws, doors, and integrated appliances.  And, as an added bonus, a cool bag is provided with all the bits and pieces for a picnic on the beach, along with four beach towels and four beach chairs.

Wow sleeps four and can be booked for a seven night stay from £589.  A three night short-break can be booked from £418.  A small charge of £23 is made to allow for the extra cleaning that is typically required after a pet’s stay.

2.    Treat Rover to a right royal visit

Stay in one of Queen Victoria’s favourite holiday locations and get a right royal reception for your dog.Set at the bottom of a steep and winding road, the secluded Beach House, Shell and Pebble holiday apartments each look out over the idyllic Devon coast, taking in Oddicombe Beach, Torquay and Exmouth in the distance. 

Described by Queen Victoria as: “A beautiful spot...with red cliffs and rocks, and wooded hills like Italy, reminding one of a ballet or play where nymphs appear...,” this enchanting location remains a firm favourite among dog owners looking for an extra-special stay.

Visiting dogs get their very own courtesy bed, bowl and treat thrown in, and they have access to the year-round dog-friendly Babbacombe beach below, which is only a stick’s throw away.  Other local year-round pro-hound beaches along the English Riviera coast include Livermead, St Mary’s Bay, Churston Cove, Elberry Cove, Maidencombe and Watcombe.

The properties each come with access to The Cary Arms Hotel, one of the country’s top-10 beach-side hotels.  This gives guests access to a free range of facilities, which include a private resident’s sitting room, access to a wood-panelled pool/billiard room, and use of the hotel’s all-weather outdoor orb, where you can dine or drink under the stars.

A half-hour spa session is thrown in for guests along with a 20% discount on any additional treatments taken during the break.  Little ones get their very own named bucket and spade, and each cottage gets its own canvas beach bag as well as a welcome hamper stacked with local goodies.

Bath robes are provided for the week along with complimentary Temple Spa bathroom products.  Fishing rods are provided free of charge.  To cap things off staff will happily arrange day trips including golf excursions, boat trips, snorkelling and coastal path walks.

Shell sleeps two guests and is available from £770 per week.   Pebble sleeps four guests and is available from £970 for a seven night stay. Beach House sleeps eight guests and is available from £1,520 per week. A small charge of £23 is made to allow for the extra cleaning that is typically required after a pet’s stay. 

3.    Sandy Paws are seconds away!

5 Ocean Point is a brand new contemporary coastal apartment situated within a 5 minute walk of the year-round dog-friendly Saunton Sands.  Its three miles of golden sands and impressive dunes are guaranteed to give even the most energetic of pets a thorough work-out.  And if that doesn’t do the trick, the South West Coast path, which traverses 36 miles of beautiful coastline, encompassing Croyde and Woolacombe, is on hand to poop-out even the busiest of pooches.

Also, close by, are the charming winding streets of England’s largest village, Braunton and the scenic Tarka Trail, which offers a fantastic selection of cycle paths and footpaths from which the beauty of the area can be enjoyed to the full.  Alternatively, a ferry can be caught from neighbouring Illfracombe to Lundy Island, a peaceful retreat, home to some of the area’s rarest flora and fauna.

Sleeping four, number 5 Ocean Point has stunning beach views from its chic living room.  Its kitchen features contemporary high-gloss units, while the master bedroom enjoys an en suite bathroom and double shower, and access to the terrace.  Three nights can be booked from £439.  Seven nights can be booked from £619.  A small charge of £23 is made to allow for the extra cleaning that is typically required after a pet’s stay. 

4.    Not a hard Cellar for pet owners  

3 and 4 Fish Cellars are beautifully constructed 400 year old fish cellars that have been transformed into eco-friendly beach houses clad in their original old stone.  Booked together, they’re perfect for a party of twelve. 

Situated in the small historic village of Portwrinkle on the South East coast of Cornwall, 3 and 4 Fish Cellars have been finished to a very high standard, with waterfront balconies, under floor heating throughout and allocated parking.

Breathtaking views of South Cornwall’s year-round dog-friendly Whitsand Bay and a sand and shingle beach close by make this a great destination for families, friends and pets who enjoy sunny beach walks, swims in the sea and digging in the sand.

Add to that the South West Coast Path, which is just 50 metres away, and the nearby year-round dog friendly beaches of Downderry and Seaton, and Fish Cellars provides the perfect hound-focused holiday home, possessing some of the most spectacular views of Cornwall’s coastline that can be found in the county.

And, as an added bonus, the award winning Bay Restaurant is close by; a superb eatery that uses only locally sourced produce.  Alternatively, the traditional newly refurbished Finnygook Inn is within a 10 minute walk.

3 and 4 Fish Cellars sleep 6 each and can be booked for seven nights from £589.  A three night stay in either property can be booked from £418.  A small charge of £23 is made to allow for the extra cleaning that is typically required after a pet’s stay.

5.    Swell Seashells, Zinc, Newquay
Taking its inspiration from Miami's South Beach district, Seashells, within Zinc, occupies a supreme location on the headland overlooking the legendary Fistral Beach.  This plush, contemporary apartment provides the ultimate retreat in which Master and hound can relax, unwind and enjoy the delights of one of Cornwall’s finest year-round dog-friendly locations. 

In addition to Fistral, which is just a couple of minutes away by foot, the pro-dog beaches of Towan, Great Western and Watergate Bay are all close by, providing a great choice of sandy adventures for four-legged friends.

Seashells looks over both Newquay Golf Course and the Atlantic Ocean.  Its living room has access to a balcony, as do each of the bedrooms, and floor to ceiling windows stream in light throughout the day, making the most of the exceptional scenery.

Seashells sleeps four and can be booked for a seven night stay from £459 per week, or from £327 for a three night stay.  A small charge of £23 is made to allow for the extra cleaning that is typically required after a pet’s stay. 

6.    Boy oh boy – Beach on the doorstep
Bluesy Beach House is a fantastic pet-friendly holiday home, suitable for any time of the year.  It is set in the perfect position for surfing and other water sports, as well as beachcombing, rock pooling, snorkelling, walking or simply relaxing on the beach.

Situated just outside Bude in Widemouth Bay, Bluesy Beach House is just a stone’s throw away from an amazing stretch of golden sand.  Even though Widemouth Beach has an Easter to October ban on dogs, Bude’s Summerleaze Beach is only a short-drive away, and provides year-round access for pets to frolic about in the sand and sea, as does nearby Northcott Mouth Beach.

Bluesy Beach House is a perfect choice for any surfing enthusiast, possessing a wet room with two showers and direct access from the beach; ideal for washing off the salt after a hard day on the surf or digging in the sand.

The house has ample space to store beach and surfing equipment, and has two sun lounges, a balcony, a private garden, which is great for dogs, plenty of parking, and Wi-Fi for anyone who needs to log on to check the latest surf reports.

Bluesy Beach House sleeps six and is available from £509 per week and from £362 for a three night short-break.  A small charge of £23 is made to allow for the extra cleaning that is typically required after a pet’s stay. 

7.    Spaniels or Spinones will love this!
Sprindrift is a hound-friendly house situated in the picturesque fishing village of Hope Cove.  At each turn beautiful scenery surrounds the house, and the dramatic Devon coastline, stretching from Bolt Tail to Burgh Island and Bigbury-on-Sea, is just a short walk away.
Hope Cove has its very own sheltered year-round dog-friendly sandy beach, which is set in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Close by are many other superb all year round doggy beaches including East Portlemouth, Thurlestone, Wonwell and Stoke Beach.

Spindrift has three bedrooms, a large garden with a patio and terrace, and a fabulous sun trap conservatory, which you can guarantee will be used to the full during stays by hounds and humans alike.  The kitchen is modern with cream units and a granite top work surface, and there’s a dining table for up to six.

Spindrift sleeps six and can be booked for seven nights from £549.  A three night stay can be booked from £390.  A small charge of £23 is made to allow for the extra cleaning that is typically required after a pet’s stay.

8.    Grab your coat boy!
Cotehayes in Torquay is an impressive, large detached 200 years old house that is situated in the leafy Wellswood area of Torquay.
The town centre and harbour are a 10 minute walk away, while the pro-hound beaches of Livermead, St Mary’s Bay, Churston Cove, Elberry Cove, Maidencombe, Watcombe and Babbacombe are all within a short drive.

The house has a third of an acre of landscaped gardens to the rear, which is a great area for pets to play in or lounge about in the sun.  Inside, Cotehayes has impressive period furniture, vaulted oak beamed ceilings, stone white wash walls, enchanting bedrooms, a generous dining area, and a great conservatory that has direct access to the gardens.

Cotehayes sleeps up to eight and can be booked for seven nights from £549.  A three night stay can be booked from £390. A small charge of £23 to allow for the extra cleaning that is typically required after a pet’s stay. 

9.    Canoe find a better deal for dogs?
Blue Monkey is a beautiful Grade II 18th century house that has been lovingly refurbished to provide a luxurious stay for families, pets and holiday makers looking for a peaceful retreat. 
Awarded the 4 Star-Visit Britain status, Blue Monkey is a stunning houndy home-from-home set in the pretty and historic villages of Cawsand and Kingsand on the Rame Peninsula.

Blue Monkey is comprehensively fitted out with everything for a self-catering family holiday. It comprises four bedrooms, four bathrooms, a pretty sun-trap garden (with BBQ), which is great for dogs, and a delightful open plan living/dining area where you can relax in front of a roaring open log fire.

As well as a complimentary bottle of wine on arrival, guests have free use of two kayaks - ideal if you have a dog that’s mad about swimming!  Blue Monkey is a mere 30 metres away from the beach and the year-round dog-friendly Kingsand Beach is close by.

Blue Monkey was formerly the village pub known as "The Blue Anchor" and was regularly visited by Lord Nelson who could often be seen dancing the night away up in the first floor front room.   Its name hails partially from this period, but also from the time when the house was used as the cannon ball store supplying the fort; “Monkey” was the name given to the triangular formation the cannon balls made when they were stacked, hence Blue Monkey.

Blue Monkey sleeps eight and can be booked for seven nights from £679.  A three night stay can be booked from £481.  A small charge of £23 is made to allow for the extra cleaning that is typically required after a pet’s stay.

10.  Katy’s cottage – cute for canines
Katy's Cottage is a charming cottage that easily sleeps four.  Situated in the delightful village of Kingsand on the Rame Peninsula, which has a year round dog-friendly beach, the cottage is set over three floors and has been beautifully updated.  Inside, the cottage retains many of its original features and character, boasting wooden beams, stone floors, a wood burning stove and original fireplaces in the main bedroom and second living area. There is a small patio area in front of the property where you can sit and relax, taking in the views across the village and out to sea.

Katy’s Cottage can be booked for seven nights from £349 per week.  A small charge of £23 is made to allow for the extra cleaning that is typically required after a pet’s stay. For extra information on Blue Monkey, pick up your copy of The Sunday Times, and check out this fantastic holiday home! Hope this has given you paws for thought!

Visit http://www.bluechipvacations.com to find more dog friendly cottages and apartments in Devon and Cornwall.

A Guide To Choosing A Suitable Travel Cot For Your ‘Staycation’

With the UK continuing to gradually move out of recessionary times, many parents will be starting to estimate whether they will have the money to spend on travel during their summer holidays.  Going abroad with a young child on a budget can often be considerably more strenuous than travelling on your own in the same situation, so for many young families booking a ‘staycation’ in and around England, Scotland or Wales may be the most logical plan for the summer months.

For any family planning on travelling with their baby, a travel cot is a very sensible investment.  Yet, for those staying in the UK for summer, they can be more than worthwhile especially if you plan on being away from home for longer than you might have been if you had gone abroad.  So where does one start when it comes to choosing the right travel cot?

Although travel cots vary significantly in price, their basic design often consists of the same key attributes, including: lightweight frame, carry bag and soft side panels often made from mesh.

 However, despite the key benefit of purchasing a travel cot being that it is easy to carry around, the actual weight of some models can vary quite significantly with mid-range models weighing in at around the 13-15kg mark, and those that are as light as 8kg being available at a slightly higher cost.

Weight may not be the only thing to consider when browsing available travel cots.  Although cheaper models are satisfyingly practical and simple, those that cost upwards of £70 typically boast a number of extras that might tempt the travelling parent.  Many can act as both a play pen and travel cot, while others include a cot top changer, saving you the need to take a changing mat with you. 

Yet to truly travel in style, and to increase the chances that you’ll be able to get a peaceful night’s sleep yourself – an increasing number are hitting the market with in-built night-lights and music-playing mobiles to lull your baby asleep, and to ensure that ‘staycation’ was really worth the money.