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[edit] AdventureHotels.travel
While still growing and improving, AdventureHotels.travel is already the internet's biggest and most comprehensive Pacific Rim travel and hotel portal, and with good reason. Adventure Hotels offers a new but simple concept in hotel reservations that tremendously benefits both you, the traveller, and the hotel. We have thirty-nine of the internet's most popular Pacific Rim (and other) destinations for you to choose from. Some of our destinations are huge, and very comprehensive, covering areas as large as SouthPacificHotels.travel.
And finally, our specialty! Through a rigid qualifying process of former guest reviews, we have narrowed down your search to the best value-priced, independently-operated, eco-friendly Great Britain hotels available.
[edit] No middlemen
Most internet portals will list any hotel as long as it pays the middleman (a chain hotel central reservation system, or the Global Distribution System (GDS) like hotels.com, travelocity, expedia, orbitz, etc.) a huge 20% to 40% commission for each reservation. All of our qualified and listed hotels pay us only an annual listing fee. We make nothing on your reservation.
[edit] Our hotels need to qualify to be listed
Our hotels need to undergo a rigorous qualification process to be listed on our websites. In fact, only about 15% of all hotels qualify. We don't list a lot of hotels, just the best ones. The four step qualification process includes:
- Pricing: all Adventure Hotels must have average prices under US$200, $150 or $100 (depending upon the location) per night double occupancy, but most are far less. Because good quality hotels in London tend to be expensive, all London hotels listed on this site are under US$200, but most are far less. All hotels listed in the rest of Great Britain are under US$150. We have determined that there is no need for you to pay more for fine quality, well-located accommodation.
- All Adventure Hotels listed are independently owned and operated which means the owners must personally demonstrate they try harder to satisfy their guests. Often the personal service and advice they offer is worth the price of accommodation alone. Adventure Hotel owners are excited about their hotel and facilities, and it shows. They not only provide excellent accommodations, facilities and services for the price they charge, but also, they have painstakingly put together an attractive, informative website proudly displaying their wonderful hotel (and prices) on the first page (or two) of the search engines. Prices are important and forcing you to contact the hotel to obtain them is annoying. Our hotels do not rely on costly middlemen to send them a steady stream of guests like cattle through a feed lot, making you feel like a statistic (which you are). Adventure Hotels' philosophy is simple. If the hotel doesn't rely mainly on word of mouth, nor have the wherewithall to attract and keep its own guests by providing comfortable, clean, updated accommodations and facilities, and make guests feel welcome and appreciated, then the hotel probably doesn't have the genuine interest to make your stay an authentic, warm, real, and a problem-free experience.
- Former guest reviews: all Adventure Hotels listed have undergone a series of former guest reviews, guests who lay out the truth (as they see it) and the cream hotels that we list have risen to the top positions...don't just take our word on it, trust the opinions of former guests!
- All Adventure Hotels are eco-friendly (to some extent) and must meet minimum requirements of sustainability. Categories include recycling, composting, using renewable energy, conservation of the environment and indigenous cultural promotion, employing local help with chances for upward mobility, buying local produce, reinvesting profits in the local area, informing guests of eco-friendly travelling practises, and generally encouraging visitors to observe, listen, understand and empathize rather than see, hear, take pictures and boast. If visitors prefer the familiar comforts of home, they need to ask themselves why they are traveling?
[edit] Locate the perfect hotel at any destination
From each listed hotel's website, you are able to contact the hotel(s) directly. Ask a real person for multi-night and multi-room, child and senior discount; a quiet room or a top floor room with a view; or to be accommodated close to the pool; extra blankets, towels or pillows; or have them recommend and book a tour or car for you in advance; you can request a romantic bouquet of exotic flowers with a note attached waiting in your room, or a chilled bottle of champagne; or ask questions about the surrounding area, dining, nightlife, laundry services or luggage storage, or a possible early check-in or late check-out. You can't do any of this when you book through a middleman!
[edit] We have done the work for you
Now, confidently make your reservations your way by dealing directly with the hotel, and holding the hotel accountable for what they promised. Though our listed hotels are highly recommended and qualified, if your hotel doesn't live up to your expectations, send us an honest and realistic review, to warn others. However, if it meets or surpasses your expectations, be kind and send us a positive review. These hotels depend on YOUR word of mouth, eliminating the costly middlemen, and saving everyone money. Both you and the hotel win. In fact, the only people that lose are those greedy middlemen.
[edit] Great Britain Crash Course
Though our site says Englandhotels.travel, we have information on all of Great Britain. The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, often called the UK, Great Britain or Britain, is not just a country but also a sovereign state. It is located on the northwest part of Europe, the republic of Ireland to the west. It is actually made up of four constituent countries, including England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. While it occupies the whole island of Great Britain, it only takes the northern part of the island of Ireland, which it shares with the Republic of Ireland. UK being islands within the Atlantic Ocean surrounded by the North Sea and the English Channel, the Celtic Sea, Saint George’s Channel and the Irish Sea. It is now directly land-linked to France by the Channel Tunnel (Chunnel). Queen Elizabeth II is the constitutional monarch of the country and the queen is also the figuarative head of state of fifteen other Commonwealth realms, including Canada, Australia, New Zealand and Jamaica.
The British Empire has suffered a serious decline over the last century, however it is still considered a great power. The UK is a member of G8. It is a developed country and enjoys the fifth largest economy on a world wide basis while it is the second largest of Europe, with an estimated of US$2.3 tillion GNP. It is the third most populated state in the European Union and has a population of 60.2 million. UK is a founder of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, known as NATO and of the United Nations, or UN, for which is has a permanent membership on the Security Council. UK is a nuclear power nation and has a strong military influence.
[edit] History
Since the 9th century, the Kingdoms of England and Scotland had been existing as separate states both with their own monarchs and their own political structures. The principality of Wales, which had been independent, fell under the control of English monarchs in 1284 thus become part of the Kingdom of England according to the Laws in Wales Acts 1535-1542, and Cornwall was at that time also considered part of England. Scotland agreed to a political union, after the Act of Union 1707, thus forming the Kingdom of Great Britain. Next the Act of Union 1800 united the Kingdom of Ireland to the Kingdom of England, and the Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland was born.
After the partition of the Island of Ireland in 1920, the Republic of Ireland became independent in 1922. Six of the nine counties of the province of Ulster stayed with the UK. During the 18th century Britain was a key factor in the scientific, philosophical, theatrical and literary fields. It played a major part in widening western traditions and ideas. Colonial exploitation contributed greatly to its wealth, and this includes the actual industrialization of the Slave Trade around 1750. Britain’s shipping fleet was the largest of the world, bringing African slaves to the Americas, forming what is remembered as the infamous Triangular Trade. At the beginning to the 19th century, Britain was the first country to abolish slavery and to prohibit its trade.
Following the Industrial Revolution and the defeat of Napoleon, Britain was the most powerful country of the world, and during the beginning of the 19th century its empire included almost a quarter of the Earth’s land surface, forming the largest empire in the world's history. During this period, parliamentary democracy was developed, and a public health system rose towards the end of the century.
Towards the end of the Victorian period, the UK began to loose its industrial power, mostly to the United States, and to some extent to the German Empire. By the end of the First World War, the United Kingdom’s power began to weaken as well as its predominant role in international relations.
In the Second World War, Britain fought against Germany and the Nazis together with its Commonwealth allies; Canada, Australia, New Zealand, India and South Africa. Other allies later joined to help fight the enemy. The Big Threes” were formed first by Churchill and by his successor Atlee. The impact of World War II on the United Kingdom however was severe, leaving the country in a very unstable financial state and a damaged physical condition. The British Welfare State was born in 1945, and it was at the time one of the world’s most accomplished health services. At the same time, with the high demands necessary for the recovery of the country, the commonwealth nations gathered together and thus created a multiethnic Britain.
Margaret Thatcher, in the 1980s, managed to provide some economic recovery but created more conflicts and greater division within the country. Tony Blair is now Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. It has been a member of the European Union since 1973, however the Labour Party has mixed feelings about further integration, and the Conservative Party favors a return to power while the Liberal Democrats support more integration into the European Union.
[edit] Geography
The United Kingdom has a total area of 244 820 Km2 with 241,590 Km2 of land area, including the Rockall and Shetland Islands. There is a coastline of 12,429 Km. The climate in UK is taken very seriously, as odd as it may seem, as the weather is generally speaking the same all year around, with moderate changes in temperature. The sun does show its face during the summer months, but it can be said that rain is persistent in the whole of the country throughout the year. It is a temperate climate moderated by southwest winds over the North Atlantic current.
The United Kingdom consists mainly of rugged hills and low mountains; there are some level to rolling plains in the East and in the Southwest.
[edit] Main larger cities
London is the capital of England, Belfast is the capital of Northern Ireland, Edinburgh is the capital of Scotland and Cardiff is the capital of Wales. However the largest cities are London, with over seven million, Birmingham with 970,000 and Glasgow with 590,000.
Greater London forms the largest urban area with 8.28 million inhabitants, the West Midlands conurbation counts up to 2.28 million and the Greater Manchester Urban Area 2.24 million. London is the most popular metropolitan area of the Europe Union according to Eurostat covering an area of 1,579 km2 with a population density of 4,761 people per km2.
According to some cost of living surveys, London ranks as one of the most expensive cities of the world, together with Tokyo and Moscow. It is the 15th most populated city of the world, and also one of the most diversity ethnically speaking. Three hundred languages are spoken, and it has over fifty non-indigenous communities of more than 10,000 living there. A 2001 census showed that over a third of the population of London was non-white with the same number of people born outside of London.
[edit] Religion
The predominant religion in London has always been Christianity, which accounts for its many churches. The Anglican centers are St Paul’s Cathedral and Southwark Cathedral and the head of the Church of England and the Archbishop of Canterbury is Lambeth Palace in the London Borough of Lambeth.
Still today, in London the christians make the largest religious group with 58.2%, Muslim 8.2%, Hindu 4.1%, Jewish 2.1% and Sikh 1.5%. No religion makes up the rest.
[edit] London Transport
The London Underground, better known as The Tube, has sixteen interconnecting lines, and it is the oldest and largest metro in the world, but also the most expensive! The Eurostar links UK to Europe, going through the Channel Tunnel, but the rails in UK do not allow for the train to go full speed.
London Buses, these famous double-decker red buses, work 24 hours a day and actually transport more passengers per day than the underground. In a week it has been counted that approximately 6 million passengers travel on 700 different routes.
[edit] Travel in the United Kingdom
[edit] Entry Requirements
US, Canadian, Australian, New Zealand and Irish travellers must hold a valid passport; a visa is not required. UK Immigration officials will decide on length of stay up to six months depending on reason for travel.
South Africans require a valid passport. A visa is not required. UK Immigration officials will decide on length of stay up to six months depending on reason for travel. Stays exceeding six months will require a visa. South Africans may no longer travel to the UK on a temporary passport.
Passport/Visa Note: If a visa is not required, travellers should hold a return or onward ticket, or proof of funds for the duration of stay. Passports must be valid for the period of intended stay in the UK; nationals of the EU require a passport valid on arrival. All nationals of non-EEA member states travelling to the UK for more than six months require an Entry Clearance visa.
[edit] Safely.travel
If you are new to travelling, or even if you have travelled the globe for years, I strongly recommend you check out the following link for some very interesting and informative reading about safe travelling in Great ritain, and the rest of the world in general. It is an accumulation of original thoughts and experiences of several worldly travellers, just go to Safely.travel. It was written with the Third World in mind, where travelling disasters are around every corner, and a pre-emptor to what we may all expect someday in the First World as populations increase and desperate people become more brave and sophisticated in their survival techniques. It will make you aware of all sorts of scams, how to check into a hotel, advice for single lady travellers, advice for single men travellers, rip tides, credit card scams, driving in a foreign land, kidnapping, street people, you name it. It is an essential read for anyone travelling, and the most comprehensive discussion I know of!
[edit] What to see in London
London has the lion's share of attractions within Great Britain, and below are just a few of the more popular ones.
[edit] Buckingham Palace
Buckingham Palace is one of the most famous palace's in the world and is the official London residence for H.M Queen Elizabeth II. Other members of the royal family also use it quite extensively.
While visiting the palace, one can really get a good insight into the Royal Family and their lifestyle. The Ballroom is astonishing in size and splendor. It is used for state banquets during visits of heads of state, among other things. The stables are probably one of the best of their kind, and the Royal Collection of Art is one of the finest.
[edit] Hampton Court
Hampton Court is where the royal family life can be seen as more practical, or more human. The famous huge Tudor Kitchen is by no means everyone’s idea of a place where one cooks dinner. It was built in the 16th century and is the oldest surviving European kitchen. It is displayed so that it looks as if a feast was being prepared, complete with original ustensils. The gardens are also quite outstanding and deserve to be admired.
[edit] Kensington Palace
Kensington Palace, home of many kings and queens, is the setting of many royal dramas. Only parts of the palace are opened to the public, most of it is used by the royal family and is kept private. The public is welcome to visit the State Apartments and the Royal Ceremonial Dress Collection is not to be missed.
[edit] The Tower of London
This is where the Crown Jewels are kept. They have been there since the 14th Century. They are the focal point of the Tower’s visit, it could be said. The displays and arrangements were re-designed in 1994, allowing for a closer view. The jewels are actually still used by the Queen and members of the Royal Family. The sight of so much wealth is quite impressive.
[edit] Whitehall Palace
Another chef-d’oeuvre, Whitehall’s Palace’s banqueting room’s ceiling displays some of the most impressive paintings, aqnd works of Rubens himself. The ceilings were done in 1636 and are a true example of princely taste.
[edit] The Royal Observatory
The Royal Observatory in Greenwich was founded in 1675. Charles II needed a place where he could study the longitude and latitude and create maps in order to make traveling easier. He chose Sir Christopher Wren, who had also designed St Paul's Cathedral and was himself an astronomer. The Observatory was built on the very foundations of Duke Humphrey's Tower which itself had stood on the site since 1438. In July, 1676, John Flamsteed, who was the first Astronomer Royal, moved into the new building. This house is now named Flamsteed House.[edit] Natural History Museum
This extraordinary museum is divided into Life and Earth galleries; it offers visitors an insight into how the earth was formed and how the mammals developed and lived on Earth over many millions of years of existence. The Earth's Treasury is well worth a visit; you will be able to see the thousands of rocks and mineral specimens and the Life Galleries where you can find out how we are dependent on each other.
[edit] London Transport Museum
This is the place to go if you want to learn the story of two hundred years of London and its public transport, which is the oldest in the world. You will be able to explore fascinating and colorful displays, meet characters from the past or drive a bus or tube simulator. In the kid zone, enjoy buzzing buttons, turning wheels, spinning signs. This is a great place to take the family.
[edit] Museum of Domestic Design and Architecture
An important and comprehensive collection of late 19th and 20th century decorative design for the home; this includes the world-renowned Silver Studio collection. It is located in north London, where it offers a wide-ranging exhibition and events program throughout the year alongside its permanent exhibition.[edit] Imperial War Museum
You will find here a vast array of military equipment from 1914 onwards. This museum offers an insight into the lives and times of military personnel and civilians during the conflicts of the First and Second World Wars. From personal letters to documents and official information, you can build a picture of what life was like in Britain during these traumatic times.
[edit] The Tate Gallery
The Tate Gallery or Tate Britain is the national gallery of British art. Located in London, it is actually one of the family of four Tate galleries which display selections from the Tate Collection. The other three galleries are Tate Modern, also in London, the Tate Liverpool in the north-west, and the Tate St. Ives in Cornwall, in the south-west. Tate Britain is the world centre for the understanding and enjoyment of British art and one of its goal is to promote British art in an international level. The displays at Tate Britain call on the greatest collection of British art in the world. It presents an unrivalled story of the development of art in Britain from the time of the Tudor monarchs to the present day.
[edit] The Houses of Parliament
The Houses of Parliament and Big Ben make up one of Britain's most acclaimed and recognizable landmarks. The Palace of Westminster is a historic building with exquisite architecture and it holds both the Houses of Commons and Lords. The Houses of Parliament represent democracy in Great Britain and its has retained its atmosphere of drama. Statues and monuments of some of the greatest personalities of Great Britain, such as Winston Churchill who delivered many famous speeches there during the war, can be admired.
[edit] The London Dungeon
The London Dungeon is an interactive historic horror attraction, and not for the sensitive kind. It gives to its visitors an equal amount of fear and fun. Life in old London can be re-lived as well as encounters with some of the gruesome events, such as the Great Fire of London, Jack The Ripper and the Judgement Day' boat-ride, with a trip down the River Thames through the legendary Traitors Gate where criminals used to meet their doom! Definitely a must if you don’t scare too easily.
[edit] Madame Tussaud Wax Museum
Marie Tussaud created her first wax figure in 1777. It was of Francois Marie Arouet de Voltaire and it can still be seen today. Her list of models soon started to grow, and it included Jean–Jacques Rousseau and Benjamin Franklin. She made some death wax masks during the French Revolution, usually of the most prominent victims. She actually went out searching for corps and heads amongst the decapitated bodies. . When Curtius, her master, died in 1794, his astonishing collection of waxworks was left to her. She could never go back to France because of the Franco-English war, so after a period of travelling through the UK, she established her first exhibition on Baker Street in 1835. This is where you can see the museum today. The Chamber of Horrors was added later on, as well as the London Planeterium. Wax figures of the rich and famous can be admired, from top models to heads of state. Madame Tusseaud's Wax Museum is considered to be one of London main attractions.
[edit] Beyond London
Travelling in UK is easy by land or by air. The roads are very good, and it is possible to go just about anywhere and everywhere by rail:
http://www.nationalrail.co.uk/ All major cities have connecting airports which themselves connect by special railway services.
London’s major airports are Heathrow, Gatwick and Luton.
[edit] England
England is a country of impressive diversity and variety. It is divided into nine distinct regions which all have their attractions.
The City of Bath, with its hot therapeutic springs and the unique Roman Baths Museum is truly one of England’s wonders. August evenings are best, when the baths are lit by flaming torches.
For a not so British ambiance, go to Chester zoo; it is one of the best and most renowned zoos of Europe, boasting over 5000 animals in 110 acres of parkland & enclosures. Features include Chimp Island, the Children's Farm, Penguin Pool, and the Monorail and Waterbus. The following is a list of the main areas of interest in the country.
[edit] East Midland
The Peak District, England’s first and most popular national park, the marvels of the historical delights of Belvoir Castle and Lincoln Cathedral, and the legends in Sherwood Forest are all jewels of East Midlands. The region is known for its delicious local produce, beautiful scenery and multicultural cities.
The East of England has managed to preserve most of its unspoilt character and rural landscape, its architecture and traditions. Go to the seaside resorts of Aldeburgh and Great Yarmouth, the Roman remains of Colchester and the famous race course at Newmarket.
[edit] England’s Northwest
England's Northwest has a wealth of inspiring attractions, museums and galleries, stately homes, as well as seaside theme parks plus a host of sporting events. Lets not forget the rural splendors of Cumbria and the Lake District.[edit] Liverpool
Liverpool has always been at the forefront of pop. The city’s artists and bands have earned it a place in the Guinness Book of Records, with more number one hit singles than any other city in the UK. Many of these chart-toppers were written by Lennon & McCartney, the world’s most successful songwriting duo ever.
Whether you’re fanatical about The Beatles or just fanatical about music, you'll be absorbed in a unique story of music, fame and fortune in Beatles Liverpool. You can experience Strawberry Field and Lennon and McCartney's childhood homes, take a stroll along Mathew Street and Penny Lane, learn about the Merseybeat era and even enjoy a drink in the lad's favourite pubs and clubs. As you discover what made the band so special you can look forward to some poignant and evocative moments in the legendary city where they grew up.
Make sure you find the heart and soul of the Beatles history in Liverpool with these essential ingredients-
- Beatles Story – award-winning exhibition where the complete story unfolds from its Liverpool beginnings to the worldwide phenomenon of Beatlemania and beyond.
- Beatles Magical Mystery Tour - two-hour tour of places associated with the Fab Four, including their homes, schools and places that inspired so many memorable songs.
- Cavern Club – the famous basement club where The Beatles first tasted success in the early 1960’s that’s still buzzing with great music today.
[edit] The Heart of England
The cultural diversity and vibrancy of Birmingham reflects a very different England to the one of Shakespeare’s Stratford-upon-Avon and the sleepy villages of Warwickshire and Herefordshire and beauty of the Cotswolds. The Heart of England is unique, giving us timeless historic sites together with an avant-garde culture.
William Shakespeare was an English poet and playwright widely regarded as the greatest writer of the English language, and as the world's preeminent dramatist. He was born in Stratford-upon-Avon on April 23rd, 1564, the son of John Shakespeare, a successful glover and alderman from Snitterfield, and of Mary Arden, a daughter of the gentry. His birth is assumed to have occurred at the family house on Henley Street. Shakespeare died on the same day, April 23 (May 3 on the Gregorian calendar), in 1616.
[edit] North East England
From the impressive Cheviots of Northumberland to the dazzling cities of Tyne and Wear, visit historical County Durham, the peaceful countryside of Tees Valley.
[edit] South East England
Georgian spa towns, fashionable seaside resorts and tranquil parks and gardens are just some of the reasons to spend time in South East England. Don’t forget the 12th century Leeds Castle at Maidstone. Beware of Brighton’s designer boutiques….
[edit] South West England
This region offers a lot of diversities with the cosmopolitan appeal of Bristol and the beautiful countryside surrounding the Roman springs of Bath to the wild and rugged coastal scenery of Cornwall. Colorful fishing ports and golden sandy beaches will not disappoint you.
[edit] Stonehenge
The great and ancient stone circle of Stonehenge is one of the wonders of the world. What visitors see today are the substantial remnants of the last in a sequence of such monuments erected between circa 3000BC and 1600BC. There has always been intense debate over quite what purpose Stonehenge served. Certainly, it was the focal point in a landscape filled with prehistoric ceremonial structures, now a World Heritage Site.
[edit] Yorkshire
There is simply nothing to dislike about Yorkshire. The history and culture for those who like to explore the past, vibrant cities such as Leeds and Sheffield where stylish boutique shopping is the trend, fantastic local food to try, and for those who want to get out and about, miles and miles of beautiful countryside.
[edit] Northern Ireland
Though Northern Ireland is six counties on the northeast part the Ireland island, it is part of what makes up the United Kingdom. Internationally, it has dominated the evening news for its violence and sectarian problems, however, this is waning considerably, leaving a small country of facinating cities and spectacular unspoiled countryside scenery.
Tourism developments have started to take off over the last decade or so, lovely little hotels and restaurants to cater to the first new visitors in years. Northern Ireland embraces nature in its landscapes and a people warm and friendly, a sense of humour, honest and genuine, and spontaneous, and though they have had problems, these were due in large part to their sincere love of their proud homeland.
[edit] Belfast
Belfast started as a village in the 17th century, and it became this robust northern metropolis of nearly half a million people which makes up a third of Northern Ireland's population. It has much in common with Liverpool and Manchester, those breezy cities across the Irish Sea. Belfast played a major role in the industrial revolution in Ulster. The development of industries like linen, rope-making and shipbuilding doubled the size of the town every ten years or so. These is where the world's largest dry dock is, where the shipyard's giant cranes can be seen towering over the port.
Today the city and the river front are going through more transformation; indeed much of the city centre is now pedestrian friendly, with lots of parks and places to sit.
[edit] Titanic Trail
History's most famous ship, the Titanic started life in Belfast. This guided tour takes you through the Cobh environment, helping you discover places and and incidents connected directly to the great sailing vessel, as well as an introduction to the history of the port itself. Visit the White Star office, and the very pier where the fateful passengers embarqued. View thwe place where the victims of the Lucitania landed, plus the Holy Ground and St. Colmans Cathedral. All this interspersed with history of the military, emigrants and the sea. Almost three million left Cobh for greener lands, and the tour brings the whole story to life. visitor.
[edit] Giant’s Causeway
This protrusion, located on Ireland's north coast, consists of hexagonal basalt columns all jutting out into the sea, bring your camera![edit] The Belfast Zoo
See Monkey Island, Elephant enclosures, the pool of sealions and penguins, a gorilla and other African animals enclosure, and even a Childrens Farm.
[edit] Exploris Aquarium
See the Open Sea Tank with various species of sharks and conger eels plus smaller fish such as halibut, cod and bass.
[edit] W5 (Belfast)
This is an interactive science exhibit helping young visitors learn about the world around them.
[edit] Scotland
Scotland has always been a great tourist destination with a mix of vibrant urban areas and a beautiful rugged countryside. Scotland has five natural divisions: the central belt has the lion's share of population icluding Glasgow and Edinburgh, the Southwest and Borders region touching England, the long East Coast region, the West Coast and mountainous Highlands, and the many islands in the north Atlantic to the west and north of Scotland.
Scotland’s strengths are far as visitors are concerned are both the natural attractions as well as the culture and history. Go to [Scotland's history] if you would like specific info about Scotland's castles and other historic places.
[edit] Edinburgh
Edinburgh, nick named ‘the Athens of the North’, the capital of Scotland, is one of the finest cities in the United Kingdom. The city straddles two sides of a deep gorge with the Scott monument and the fewly renovated Waverley Station. The original town center or the 'Old Town' is on the south side of the gorge, while the Georgian New Town with its shopping district around Princess Street and eighteenth century architecture is on the north side.
Scotland's most popular tourist attraction is Edinburgh Castle, in Old Town, which houses the Scottish Crown Jewels, is at the top of the Royal Mile extending down to Queen Elizabeth's Scottish residence, the Palace of Holyrood House. Also in Old Town are many museums and galleries, plus the Edinburgh Zoo, St. Giles’ Cathedral, the John Knox House, the Writer’s Museum, the Camera Obscura and the Scotch Whisky Heritage Center.
You can enjoy many of Scotland's national galleries and museums found in Edinburgh.
Festival Theater has the largest stage in Britain and the Edinburgh Playhouse is the largest theatre in the United Kingdom. Festival and events take place annually at all of these venues.
[edit] Glasgow
Only forty eight miles west of Edinburgh, Glasgow also has many fine venues and diplays such as the famous Burrell Collection which is consists of nine thousand works of art from all periods coming from all over the planet. The Glasgow Royal Concert Hall, after years of deprivation and neglect, seen as a symbol of the Glasgow's regeneration. Youn will find many fine parks in Glasgow, and a complete medieval cathedral.
The art gallery at Kelvingrove Park is home to works by the top Renaissance and modern-day painters. The Gallery of Modern Art is in the Royal Exchange Building.
The Scottish Football Museum is in the national soccer stadium, Hampden Park. Check out the Glasgow Science Center with its intective exhibits on the south bank of the Clyde and the 416 foot Glasgow Tower that revolves, or Clydebuilt, a maritime museum.
See a complete two hundred year old model village constructed by Robert Owen, a social reformer. Culzean Castle, once home to the Kennedys is on a bluff overlooking the Firth of Clyde. Hamilton is home to the thirteenth-century Bothwell Castle plus Robert Adam Chatelherault Hunting Lodge. The Museum of Scottish Country Life, a sixty eight hectare attraction which is based on a Georgian farm at Kittochside can be found on the way to East Kilbride.
[edit] Central Scotland
No matter where you go in the populous central area of Scotland, you are never far from several places and attractions of historic significance. Though urban in nature, a lovely countryside surrounds you, the Firth of Clyde, the Dunoon Peninsula, Loch Lomond, and small towns and villages to the east with the rugged Berwickshire coast.
Stirling (or Sterling) Castle sits on a volcanic outcrop above the Town of Sterling. The Old Town Gaol is close to the battlefields of Stirling Bridge and Bannockburn, where William “Braveheart’ Wallace defeated the British in the 1200s and Robert Bruce defeated them in the 1300s.
[edit] South West Scotland and the Borders
The beautiful Ayrshire coastline and several seaside resorts, including golf havens Prestwick and Troon are southwest of Glasgow. Irvine has a Scottish Maritime Museum, and the childhood home of Willaim Wallace is Dundonald Castle nearby. Largs has a multi-media visitor center highlighting the Viking influence upon the region, and the birthplace of poet Robbie Burns, Alloway, has many attractions dedicated to him. Just off the Ayrshire coast is popular island resort Arran.
[edit] Dumfries and Galloway
Rolling treeless countryside with lakes and pine forests is the counrty location of Dumfries, the home of Robbie Burns and the former artist's colony, Kirkcudbright, a former artist’s colony and Gatehouse of Fleet. Beautiful country houses, gardens, castles and specialty museums inundate the region. Stranraer the the south-west is the port for ferries going to Belfast and the largest town on Rhinns of Galloway Peninsula, with a somewhat subtropical climate.
[edit] The East Coast
Aberdeen, Scotland's third largest, known as the granite city, is a hundred miles north and a bit east of Edinburgh. It is the headquarters of the oil works for Britains North Sea ventures. Old cathedrals, old bridges, a university, art galleries, and museums are all part of what makes up this wind blown city. Highland gatherings and competitions take place further inland each year at Royal Deesside, Braemar. Several castles owned by the National Trust are also nearby.
[edit] Dundee
The city of Dundee, in the ex-county of Angus to the north across the Firth of Tay, is famous for its printing, jute and jam. The RSS Discovery, Captain Scott's ship for exploration, lies alongside the Discovery Point Visitor Center. Also, check out Sensation, a unique interactive exhibition dealing with your senses. Verdand Works takes one through the history of jute trading at the Textile Heritage Center.
[edit] The Highlands and the West Coast
Argueably the most spectacular scenery in all of the United Kingdom lay in the Scottish Highlands. A railway and road pass through the gorgeous countryside northeast to Inverness, through the Grampian Mountain Range and the Atholl Forest region. Lochs (lakes) here fill the River Tay, a great fishing river. Then if that isn't enough, Tayside and Speyside represent Scotland’s best scotch-producing areas as denoted by several distilleries. Other wonderful places in the Highlands are the Pass of Killiecrankie, Kingussie, Blair Atholl and the ski resort, Aviemore.
[edit] Inverness
The northernmost city in the United Kingdom has many buildings dating to the 1600s, but more imporatantly, it is located at the top of Loch Ness, home of the world-famous mythical lizard-like monster.
Loch Ness Monster is yet an unidentified, perhaps mythological animal that supposedly inhabits the largest, most voluminous lake of freshwater in all of the United Kingdom, Loch Ness. Along with Bigfoot and the Yeti, the Loch Ness Monster is one of the better known mysteries of cryptozoology. Local Scottish highlanders, and many people around the world, have affectionately referred to the animal by the feminine name of Nessie.
Most scientists and other experts find current evidence supporting the creature's existence unpersuasive, and regard the occasional sightings as hoaxes or misidentification of known creatures or natural phenomena. However, belief in the legend persists around the world, with the most popular theory posing that the creature is actually a plesiosaur.
[edit] Shetland Islands
This group of a hundred islands, fifteen are inhabited are the most northerly part of the United Kingdom. Considering they are north of some parts of Norway, the climate here is amazingly mild. Where once the principal town of Lerwick, on the Island of Mainland, depended upon fishing for survival, now it is the North Sea oil indusrty. There is the Jarlshof Bronze Age Settlement, the Island of Foula, Noss' Nature Reserve, and Unst, the most northerly castle in the world.
[edit] The Hebrides
You can get to both the Inner and outer Hebrides Islands, to the northwest of Scotland by a netwrok of ferries, or easier, by air. Islay, one of the inner islands is famous for its whiskey production, with six distilleries, open for visitors to sample their products.
[edit] The Western Isles
This chain of islands forms an arc stretching for two hundred kilometers from south to north, and has been inhabited for some five thousand years. The largest and most northern island in the group is called Lewis and Harris, from which the world-famous tweed cloth comes from the southern part of the island where the largest mountains exist.
[edit] Wales
South Wales is the most populous part of the country, and is home to the capital, Cardiff, as well as the cities of Swansea and Newport, Carmarthen Bay and two national parks, Pembrokeshire Coast and Brecon Beacons. The attractive coastal resorts of Cardigan Bay are highlights of mid-Wales, while the North has popular seaside resorts like Llandudno and Rhyl, without forgetting the island of Anglesey and the scenic delights of Snowdonia National Park. Wales is an historic land with its castles and its mountains, its sweeping beaches and strong national identity dating back to pre-Norman times. There is a strong industrial heritage, especially in the Valleys of the south. It is also famous for its narrow-gauge railways.
[edit] South Wales
[edit] Cardiff
This modern city consists of two parts, the original center and Cardiff Bay, which is now the focus of much leisure and tourism development, and home of the Welsh National Assembly. In the city center, parts of Cardiff Castle, in spite of the fact that it has had extensive rebuilding in the 19th century, dates back to the Middle Ages. The National Museum and Gallery, with Welsh archaeology, arts and crafts, as well as European paintings, all are must sees, as well as the many attractive Victorian shopping arcades. The Cardiff Bay area, about 2km (1.5 miles) south of the center, offers diverse activities ranging from boat trips to the very impressive Barrage. About 8km (5 miles) west of Cardiff you will find St Fagans with its open-air Museum of Welsh Life.
[edit] Swansea
This is the country’s second city with its 45 parks, and it is a popular seaside resort, as it is conveniently close to the Gower Peninsula. However, it is well known because it is as the birthplace of Dylan Thomas (1914-1953). It has a nice city center walking trail which begins at the Dylan Thomas Center, and leads visitors around sites associated with the poet and playwright.
[edit] Mid-Wales
[edit] Aberystwyth
This is a university town midway around Cardigan Bay, and also a very popular resort. It is the base for the visits to Devil’s Bridge Waterfalls, one of Britain’s most notable beauty spots, which is linked to the town by the Vale of Rheidol narrow-gauge steam railway..
[edit] North Wales
[edit] Caernarfon
Caernarfon is facing the Isle of Anglesey across the Menai Strait. It has a 13th-century castle and walls dominate the town. This is where Prince Charles’ investiture as Prince of Wales took place in 1969.
[edit] Conwy
With its mighty castle and complete medieval town walls, Conwy is an impressive historic center.
[edit] Wrexham
Wrexham, located close to the English border, is the largest town in North Wales. The Arts Center, the nearby Minera Lead Mines and Bersham Ironworks Heritage Center are the main points of attraction in this industrial town.
[edit] Great Britain hotels
As mentioned above, the following Great Britain hotels had to qualify to be listed here. They must be independently owned and operated, meet minimum eco-friendly requirements, rise to the top after a series of former guest reviews, and their average nightly double occupancy room rate must be less than US$200 per night in London, $150 elsewhere.
Click on any hotel website we provide, and talk to a real person. Avoid misunderstandings caused by a middleman. Before you make your reservation, you can request a multi-night or multi-room, child or senior discount; a quiet room, or a top floor room, or a room with a view; or if you wish to be accommodated close to the pool; if you want extra blankets, towels or pillows; or have them recommend and book a tour or car for you in advance; you can request a romantic bouquet of exotic flowers with a note attached waiting in your room, or a chilled bottle of champagne; or ask questions about the surrounding area, dining, nightlife, laundry services or luggage storage, or a possible early check-in or late check-out. Play one hotel against the other. You can't do any of this when you book through a middleman, and without the middleman's whopping 20% to 40% commission to pay, a hotel has far more flexibility in satisfying your requests! AdventureHotels.travel makes no commission from any reservation, and only charges a small annual fee to list the hotel on our websites.
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[edit] Our most qualified London hotels under $200 (in order)
- Luna & Simone Hotel - The Luna & Simone Hotel is a family run business based in Victoria where personal care and attention are paramount. It's proximity to various transport systems and the delights of London's main tourist attractions will help to make your stay both enjoyable and convenient. Mr. Desira senior established the LunaSimone Hotel in Victoria in 1970. It is now managed and owned by his two sons since 1980. Its cosy, family-like atmosphere is stronger than ever. Its location, Victoria, SW1 is ideal for the main tourist attractions, and more besides - Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, The London Eye, the theatres, the parks, the night-clubs... the list is long! SW1 covers several areas including Victoria, Belgravia, Pimlico, Westminster, small part of Chelsea and Knightsbridge. Victoria is right on the edge of central London and close to all of London's main tourist attractions.
- Morgan Hotel - The Morgan Hotel is family owned and has been run by the Ward family since 1978. It has recently been tastefully refurbished to the highest standards. It is superbly located in the heart of London and is only a few minutes walk from the British Museum, West End Shopping, theatres and restaurants. The tastefully decorated rooms are all air-conditioned and all offer new en suite facilities, colour TV with CNN, personal room safes, and direct dial telephones with modem point. All our rooms have voicemail, so messages can be left for you while you are out enjoying the local sights. Please note that we do not have a lift, so our rooms may not be appropriate for physically challenged persons.
- Twenty Nevern Square Hotel - From the moment you step onto the wooden floor and sense the subtle cedar aroma you are taken back into another world. 100 metres of elegant antique gold silk curtains frame its large balcony windows overlooking Nevern Square. Envelope yourself in the luxurious silk bedcovers with peacock design and soft velvet aquamarine cushions. The Pasha suite has the largest bathroom in the hotel with individual hand basins and separate shower and bath. In the private world of this junior suite enjoy breakfast alfresco on your own intimate terrace overlooking Nevern Square.
- Her Majesty Hotel - Her Majesty Hotel is a bed and breakfast hotel situated in the vibrant locale of Shepherds Bush in London. Located at the heart of Shepherds Bush Green with excellent transport links, Her Majesty Hotel is ideal for those visiting London and for those requiring easy access to west London.Her Majesty Hotel London - perfect for visitors and business travellers. Located to the west of the centre of London, Her Majesty Hotel is easily accessible by road or by the London Underground (metro). Nearby are the A4/M4 and A40/M40 roads which provide easy access to/from Heathrow airport. With 2 London Underground (metro) lines and numerous London buses available within the Shepherds Bush Green area, the centre of London can be reached in 10-20 minutes. Nearby, within walking distance, are the areas of Holland Park, Notting Hill Gate, Kensington & Hammersmith.
- Encore London West - All 150 bedrooms at this London hotel are contemporary and stylish, with all the facilities needed for a great night's sleep, and relaxing break. Encore bedrooms are bright, spacious and have all the facilities required for business or leisure. All rooms have direct dial telephones, tea and coffee making facilities, interactive colour televisions with Sky Sports, radio channels and pay movie channels. Our rooms are air conditioned for your comfort, offer desk areas with high-speed internet access and an invigorating power shower.
- St.Margaret's Hotel - Our aim is to do all we can to make your stay as comfortable, enjoyable and interesting as possible. We have a higher staff to guest ratio than the majority of Bed and Breakfast Hotels, and more than many so-called 'star' hotels. This means that often a level of service is available beyond the expectations that our rates would indicate, and that 24 hours per day, 365 days-a-year, the reception is staffed and ready to respond to your needs. Our friendly and experienced staff will help you to make the most of your stay in London.
- Merlyn Court Hotel - The Merlyn Court Hotel is an English Tourism Council recommended 2 Star Gold Bed & Breakfast hotel. Centrally situated in a lovely, quiet Edwardian Garden Square in Kensington and Chelsea, the building retains most of its original architectural features. It is family run, quiet, with clean bright rooms and totally no smoking. It offers fantastic value in one of the finest, green areas of Central London – several garden squares around us if you like walking, interesting old buildings and a couple of museums too! We are just 15 min from Westminster and all major London sites and 40 min from Heathrow Airport.
- Rhodes Hotel - A London Paddington Bed and Breakfast, Rhodes Hotel is an elegant Georgian House located a short stroll from the beautiful Hyde Park. Rhodes Hotel was established by Mr. and Mrs. Rhodes before the war. Conveniently situated in the Hyde Park Estate between London Paddington and Lancaster Gate underground stations and close to a number of bus routes - you can be shopping in Oxford Street or Bond Street in a few minutes. Relax and enjoy the beauty of this unique tree-lined avenue in the heart of London. Using a wide range of specialist decorative techniques, we have created a unique ambience: both authentically classical, yet with theatrical warmth and flair.
- St.David's Hotel - The St. David's is a family run hotel situated in a quiet garden square in the heart of Central London. Just a minutes walk from Paddington Station and ten minutes walk to Oxford Street and Hyde Park, we are ideally placed for any forthcoming visits. The St. David's Hotel prides itself for its excellent value for money service. Whatever your motives for travelling to London, whether you're a budget traveller, here on business or pleasure, we will endeavour to make your stay a pleasant one. Established in the 1970's, our philosophy seeks to ensure customer satisfaction by providing comfortable accommodation at an affordable price with first class service. Our business success derives from customer recommendations and repeat visits. We invite you to stay with us so you can see for yourself.
- Ridgemount Hotel - The Ridgemount Hotel is conveniently situated in the Bloomsbury area of central London. Family run for the last 36 years, the hotel is part of a Georgian Terrace, still owned by the Duke of Bedford. It is an excellent location for business or pleasure. The hotel has 32 clean and comfortable rooms, 15 of which are now en-suite. All rooms are centrally heated with colour televisions, hair dryers are provided and hot and cold drinks are available 24 hours in the lounge. The Ridgemount prides itself on the number of guests who return year after year.
- Arofsa Hotel - Situated in the heart of central London, the Arosfa Hotel is a friendly, family run bed and breakfast hotel providing good-quality, great-value accommodation for tourists and business travellers. All of our rooms have compact en-suite facilities and are equipped with a colour TV. The Arosfa Hotel is located in a refurbished 200-year old Georgian Town House in the historic Bloomsbury district - within walking distance of many, many famous London landmarks, including: The British Museum, The British Library, UCL (University College London), the world renowned shopping areas around Oxford Street and Regent Street, London's famous theatres and of course the nearby Regent's Park and London Zoo.
- Alhambra Hotel - The Alhambra Hotel is a 2 (separate and directly opposite) building hotel located within London ZONE 1 ( centre of town ) with a convenient reach to London’s West End and City. Major tourist attractions such as the famous British Museum and Library are at a close distance from the Hotel. Kings Cross Underground Station and Thames Link Train Station are only a short walk away from the Hotel. Listed by many international travel guide books such as : Lonely Planet, Lets go, Guide du Routard and Petit Fute we can proudly say that over half of our guests are return customers. Customer Service has been our greatest success. Our mission is to provide a clean and comfortable accommodation together with a friendly and helpful service at a good value to all our guests. With different room types to suit every traveller budget, you need to find a good excuse not to travel to buzzing London.
- The Grosvenor Kensington Hotel London is an elegant hotel ideally located in Central London in the district of South Kensington just bordering Knightsbridge and to the south-east of Hyde Park. Originally a Victorian mansion house, this superior class hotel offers easy access to many local attractions such as the Natural History Museum, Science Museum, Buckingham Palace and the Victoria and Albert Museum.
- The Boulevard Hotel is a newly refurbished b&b situated few minutes walk from London's Paddington Station. We offer Continental Breakfast and a 24 hour reception desk. The Boulevard Hotel has been completely refurbished in 2003 to a modern and cosy standard. The 35 rooms, all en-suite, are not very large but offer all you need for a pleasant stay. Some rooms have telephone with answering machine, lcd color tv with satellite, air conditioning, hair dryer and tea/ coffee making facilities. Continental breakfast is included in the price. No lift. It is only 300 yards from Heathrow Express and just few minutes walk from the Heathrow Express Terminal. The hotel is located in traditional surroundings which recapture some of the charm and elegance of Victorian England.
- The Paddington Court Hotel and Suites offers 24 hr free broadband internet access in the main hotel. Nearby underground stations - Paddington and Lancaster Gate enable quick and easy access to all areas of London. Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens, Marble Arch, Edgware Road and Oxford Street are within a walking distance of 5 to 15 minutes. The major shopping centres and restaurants are close by. The hotel is ideally located for both business and leisure travellers, providing a perfect central point from which to explore London.
[edit] Other places to stay in England under $150
[edit] Bath
- Oldfields Hotel - This large, elegant Victorian hotel is typical of many Bath houses, superbly positioned and built of the honey-coloured stone for which the city is famous. The house is beautifully furnished with modern features, yet still retains its original character. Situated ten minutes walk to the city centre and Bath Thermae Spa with it's own private car park, Oldfields is the perfect choice for a visit to Bath. Sixteen ensuite bedrooms have a mix of traditional elegance and contemporary style. All offer flat screen televisions, direct dial telephone, hairdryers, Molton Brown products, hospitality trays, DVD players and some have air-conditioning. There is wireless internet connectivity throughout. Breakfast includes full English, fresh seasonal fruits and smoked salmon with scrambled eggs served in the dining room overlooking the city. Newspapers are provided. We offer tailor made packages to suit every occasion, flowers, chocolates, Molton Brown gift packages and bookings for the new Bath Thermae Spa.
- Paradise House Hotel - An elegant Georgian House, dating back to 1735, built of classic honey coloured Bath stone. The dignified exterior conceals more than half an acre of magnificent walled gardens with splendid views out over the City of Bath. Small and privately owned, our aim is to offer the best personal service with attention to every detail. Bath Paradise House has eleven delightfully appointed rooms, all are individually styled to provide a mix of traditional elegance and modern comfort. The sumptuously romantic décor of the four poster rooms, and the Superior Deluxe “Room with a View” provide the perfect choice for a Special Occasion. All rooms have flat screen televisions with dvd, direct dial telephone, hairdryer, Molton Brown products and hospitality tray. There is wireless connectivity throughout and free internet access in the drawing room. Newspapers are provided. Traditional English or Continental Breakfast is served in the dining room, Continental breakfast can be served in your room. Bath Paradise House is licensed. We offer tailor made packages to suit every occasion, flowers, chocolates, Molton Brown gift packages and bookings for the Bath Thermae Spa. Bath has a wealth of restaurants to suit all tastes and most are within an easy walk, we are pleased to help with recommendations and make reservations on your behalf. With breathtaking views across the city to the famous Royal Crescent and Bath Abbey, Paradise House will afford you many wonderful memories of Bath, not least the illuminated spire of the Abbey at night, a spectacular sight.
- Kennard Hotel - Built in 1794, the golden age of Bath's Georgian elegance, it was once a lodging house which one rented to enjoy this delightful city. Over many years, the house has been carefully maintained and restored and we hope it will now give you the experience of staying in one of Bath's original Georgian townhouses. Throughout the house, the essence has always been to provide a quality and stylish décor suited to a building of this period. However, it also offers all the modern features which are now expected: en-suites with showers, telephones with data port, wireless internet connection in all rooms, satellite television (some rooms now with plasma screens) and beverage trays. For those arriving by car, free residents' parking permits will be provided. Rooms are generally ready for 2 pm, but we can take arrivals from 10.30 am to store your luggage and issue a parking permit, if required. A strict no-smoking policy is maintained throughout the hotel. So enjoy a tour of the house and experience that elusive quality which sets The Kennard - this very special town house hotel - in a class of its own.
- Bath Lodge Hotel - If, during your visit to Bath, a stay in a castle is an unrequited dream then you can be assured that you will not be disappointed with Bath Lodge. Originally constructed in 1806 as the principal of six gate lodges to one of the largest estates in England, Bath Lodge (originally called Castle Lodge) was uniquely built to parody, in miniature, the principal estate buildings of Farleigh Manor and Farleigh Castle. Situated in over four acres of informal gardens and woodland, which merge into the ancient deer forest beyond, we offer the finest touring location for the Bath area and the ancient Kingdom of Wessex to the south. Our rating by the Automobile Association of the UK of 5 stars, the highest award they can make to accommodation of this kind, says everything about the quality and standard of both the accommodation offered and the service provided. Those rooms in the original part of the lodge feature their own balconies, traditional four-poster or brass and enamel beds and incorporate the turrets as showers or coffee rooms. All of our rooms are unique and even those in the newer part of the house are decorated in character and furnished to a very high standard in keeping with the building as a whole.
- Villa Magdala - Ideally situated for those wishing to explore this famous city, the Villa Magdala enjoys a peaceful location overlooking Henrietta Park. Despite the tranquilty of our setting, it is only a five minute level walk from the hotel to the Roman Baths and the city centre with its many attractions and excellent shopping. Its rarity in being one of the very few hotels in Bath to have a carpark for its guests in the grounds of the hotel makes the Villa Magdala an ideal base for exploring the city. The spacious, well equipped bedrooms lead off of the intriguing and elegant hallway, and all have a private ensuite bathroom and pleasant outlook.
- Aquae Sulis Hotel - Aquae Sulis offers some of the best accommodation in Bath. Ideal for tourists and families looking for a Bath hotel that is just far enough away from Bath city centre to provide some peace and quiet. Aquae Sulis is one of the few B&Bs in Bath that can offer you access to both the beautiful surroundings around the city of Bath and be within convenient distance of Bath's city centre. A sunny south-facing Edwardian hotel (13 bedrooms) built at the turn of the century, we combine old world charm with the conveniences and services demanded by the 21st century traveller. The beautiful Roman city of Bath offers tourists the opportunity to explore the Roman Baths, the new Bath Thermae Spa, an excellent shopping centre and much more all within Bath's stunning Roman and Georgian architecture. Bath restaurants are also some of the best in the region offering everything from a traditional Georgian feel to a contemporary up to date modern Bath city centre establishment.
- Ashley Villa - Ashley Villa is a family run guest house offering clean and comfortable bed and breakfast accommodation in Bath. The City of Bath has so much to offer from seeing the sights in this beautiful Georgian town: the Roman Baths, the Royal Crescent the New Thermae Bath Spa, to shopping. You can use us as a base to explore the surrounding area - The Cotswolds, Wells Cathedral, Cheddar Gorge, Stonehenge, Salisbury, at-Bristol and Bristol zoo. We are conveniently situated for the Royal United Hospital and the Bath Spa University. Many of our guests also visit the Jane Austen Centre, Theatre Royal Bath and the famous Sally Lunn's. We have thirteen en-suite rooms available. Over the last three years, all of our rooms have been redecorated and by the end of January 2006, nine bathrooms have been completely refurbished and all rooms redecorated.
- The Old Malt House - Built in 1835 as a Malt House for the local Radford brewery, the Old Malt House Hotel is now privately owned by Jen & David Beresford. It is situated in the small hamlet of Radford surrounded by beautiful countryside just six miles from the historic city of Bath. Traditional home-cooked food, log fires and a warm welcome await you at the Old Malt House - a delightful country hotel, just fifteen minutes drive from Bath City Centre. We have a fully licensed lounge bar and restaurant serving delicious home-cooked meals seven nights a week in season. Each of our ten individually styled, ensuite guest bedrooms has a lovely countryside view. We can provide single, double, twin, triple and family rooms. Each room is equipped with all the comforts required by the modern day visitor.
[edit] Cotswolds
- Beaumont House Hotel - All bedrooms have been refurbished to a high standard within the previous two years. The AA awarded Beaumont House 4 red diamonds for 2005 / 2006 placing it in the top 10% of 4 diamond establishments. We anticipate being regraded to 5 star guest accommodation during 2007. Set in a beautiful garden within walking distance of the town centre and only five minutes walk to local shops and restaurants with ample off street parking, Beaumont House is your best choice and we hope, will be your first choice when visiting Cheltenham and the Cotswolds. Our rooms are all non-smoking for the comfort and safety of all our guests. New luxurious Studio Rooms are now available for booking. And from March 2007 a new luxury family room to accommodate up to four, and for a luxury stay - try the new Prestbury Suite.
- Burleigh Court Hotel - Nestling on the edge of a steep hillside, overlooking the Golden Valley, Burleigh Court is an 18th century Cotswold stone gentlemen's manor house, a hidden gem in the heart of Royal Gloucestershire. Renowned for its warmth and quality of service, you are beguiled into enjoying the relaxed and tranquil atmosphere that Burleigh Court exudes. Burleigh Court has eighteen individually decorated and furnished bedrooms, offering stunning views of the gardens or across the Golden Valley. The coach house bedrooms located by the Victorian plunge pool and those within the courtyard garden, offer versatile accommodation for all the family.
- The Redesdale Arms Hotel - Visit Moreton-in-Marsh and experience the luxury of the three star rated Redesdale Arms Hotel, where traditional concepts meet contemporary style. Dating back to the 17th Century, the Redesdale Arms Hotel is a haven for anyone looking for traditional delights fused with the quality of contemporary comfort. The hotel was an old stable inn, once used by market traders and post coaches. It is now a restaurant, bar and hotel for the business community and visiting tourists. The Redesdale Arms is about relaxing in style, whether formal or casual. The hotel is also famous for its culinary genius, mixing a blend of exciting, classic and modern international cuisine. There is always a daily fish list and in the winter, local game is heavily featured. Local ales and an interesting list of new world wines all add to the pleasure of dining with us.
- The Chester House Hotel - Chester House Hotel is a substantial building with Victorian origins, constructed of honey-coloured Cotswold stone beneath pitched roofs. Chester House offers 22 bedrooms all en suite and decorated in a contemporary country style. We offer a variety of rooms from our romantic four-poster suite through to family rooms that can sleep up to four. All rooms are centrally heated and have direct dial telephones. Colour television, tea/coffee making facilities and a hairdryer are available for your comfort. We have ground floor rooms suitable for wheelchair and disabled access and one room with a roll in shower. We also welcome well-behaved dogs, but not in the main house or hotel/lounge bar.
- King's Head France Lynch - Situated as it is in a secluded part of the beautiful Golden Valley, deep in the heart of the Cotswolds, the King's Head may be a little difficult to find at first, but once discovered, it's the kind of place that visitors return to time and time again.
- The George House - The privately owned George Hotel offers Regency-style elegance, comfort and luxury in the heart of Cheltenham. The hotel enjoys an enviable location, being only a two minute walk from the town centre and just a short drive from the beautiful villages and stunning scenery of the Cotswolds. The 38 individually designed bedrooms make the George a great place to stay. Choose a standard room or for that extra bit of comfort enjoy a 'superior' room with a few extras to make it a memorable stay. We also have a twin bedded room on the ground floor which has been fully modified to accommodate a wheelchair. The hotel also boasts a unique dining experience; Monty's bar and brasserie, which is vibrant and lively and offers stunning contemporary cuisine and unique interior design. Monty's has facilities for people with disabilities.
- The Bilbury Court Hotel - Bibury Court Country House Hotel is on the edge of picturesque Bibury in the Cotswolds, which William Morris described as "the most beautiful village in England. The hotel offers the best of all worlds - the perfect refuge from the high-speed pressures of city life, a wonderfully romantic hideaway, a great base for leisurely walks in the glorious countryside and an idyllic place for families. Only seven miles from the historic market town of Cirencester, the quintessentially English honey-stone country house dating from Tudor times is brimming with history and charm, from the graceful entrance and the original atmospheric Art Deco bar to the meandering River Coln running through the six acres of grounds.
[edit] The Lake District
- The Cottage in the Wood - The Cottage in the Wood Country House Hotel and restaurant is a former 17th Century coaching inn situated in the heart of the Whinlatter forest near Keswick, in one of the most dramatic and unspoilt areas of the Lake District national park. The hotel is a superb example of luxury Keswick accommodation and the natural beauty of the area compelled the famous author and walker Wainwright to write “that the north western fells were the most delectable of all” and “I have sometimes tired of tramping the same tracks, but not here’. Whinlatter is the only mountain forest in England and “The Cottage” is situated atop the Whinlatter Pass with superb views down the valley to the Skiddaw Mountain range and Keswick. The woodland garden plays host to a wide variety of wildlife including red squirrels and numerous species of birds. Viewing points for the Bassenthwaite Ospreys are located nearby.
- Riverside Hotel - Riverside at Ambleside is a beautiful Victorian country house beside the River Rothay, on a quiet lane a short stroll from the lively centre of the village. We welcome you to our relaxed and cheerful home. Breakfasts are informal, offering a traditional freshly cooked English grill, fruit, croissant, vegetarian alternatives, fruit teas and fresh coffee. We also are licenced and fine wines and beer are available at very reasonable prices. We have five attractive and comfortable en-suite bedrooms, one with a four-poster bed and two with spa baths. They all have televisions, alarms and tea and coffee making facilities. All rooms have fine views of the river or garden. We also provide drying facilities and secure storage for cycles. For more special occasions, we can also arrange to have champagne, flowers or chocolates in your room when you arrive.
- Woodlands Hotel - A handsome Edwardian villa located on the peaceful side of the village. The Woodlands Hotel offers guests comfortable bed and breakfast accommodation in truly charming surroundings. The 15 guest rooms (14 of them en suite, the other with a private bathroom), include a choice of single, double and twin rooms, with two of them located on the ground floor. All rooms are well equipped with colour television, radio alarm clocks, hairdryer and tea/coffee making facilities. Two of the rooms have 4-poster beds and, if you really want to impress, flowers and/or champagne can be waiting for you in the room. A family room is also available. There's a bar and residents lounge where you can relax with a drink, and breakfast is served in the light and airy dining room with its large windows overlooking the garden. Woodlands is open all year round and special midweek breaks are available. There's ample off road parking and credit cards are accepted.
- Glendale Guest House - Welcome to Glendale Guest House in Keswick on Derwentwater. Originally a Victorian town house built in the late 1800's, Glendale now provides high standard centrally heated accommodation with large comfortable rooms (most en-suite), all tastefully decorated and comfortably furnished. The atmosphere of this family run house is relaxing and friendly and the owners Gilly and Martin Lankester are always on hand to make your stay as comfortable as possible.
[edit] Manchester
- Old Trafforf Lodge Hotel - With 36 Executive bedrooms overlooking the famous Old Trafford pitch, where else can you relax on your own balcony at the end of your working day and enjoy the unique experience of watching County Cricket from your bedroom window?
- Chesters Hotel - Chesters has been elegantly restyled to a very high standard and offers all the comfort of fine dining, executive accommodation and first class hospitality. With secure parking and an unrivalled position for all Manchester's City Centre attractions the hotel makes a superb base for business and pleasure activities.
- Castlefield Hotel - The 3 Star luxury Castlefield Hotel is a base ideally situated to enjoy the wealth of amenities that the city has to offer. On your doorstep is the historic canal basin with its colourful narrow boats and beyond, the Urban Heritage Park and Roman wall reconstruction. Adjacent to the Castlefield Hotel is the Museum of Science and Industry, whilst the G-Mex Exhibition Centre, the Bridgewater Hall, theatres, sports and concert arenas, shops and the whole of the city's sparkling nightlife are all within easy walking distance. The motorway network close by offers excellent access to Manchester Airport and the Trafford Centre.
- Oakfield Court Apartment Hotel - Oakfield Court Apartment Hotel provides short-term serviced apartments and houses for the visitor who want more than ‘just’ another stay in a hotel room. The underlying philosophy behind Oakfield Court is to meet the needs of the modern business and leisure traveller, combining space and thoughtful design with all the comforts of a ‘home away from home’. All studio’s, one-bedroom apartments and houses have been individually designed to provide the ideal surroundings for a private or business visit, combining comfort, privacy and flexibility with a convenient location. Available for periods of just one week or longer, Oakfield Court provides spacious serviced apartments to meet the needs of the discerning guest who is looking for complete independence, flexibility and value for money. Located in Sale, Greater Manchester, Oakfield Court is just nine miles away from Manchester International Airport, and has easy access to the key motorway and transport networks in the North West, with Manchester, Salford Quays and Trafford Park being just minutes away.
[edit] Oxford
- Burlington House otel - Burlington House is a large, Victorian merchant's house, dating from 1889. Without disturbing its Victorian elegance, the house has been totally renovated, resulting in a stylish and luxurious bed and breakfast hotel with twelve rooms, a residents lounge, dining room, on-site car parking facilities and landscaped gardens. Burlington House is situated in Oxford's premier residential area of Summertown, North Oxford - less than five minutes ride by car or bus to the centre of the city. Public transport is frequent and conveniently close to the hotel. Within walking distance is the Summertown Parade of Shops which has many quality restaurants, bars and retail outlets.
- The Old Black Horse - The Old Black Horse is a 17th Century Coaching Inn located five minutes from the centre of Oxford at the end of the High Street. The historic buildings of the city and university are nearby and Magdalen College with its beautiful deer park is just across the river. We offer a range of single, twin, double and family rooms. All our bedrooms are en-suite and are equipped with internet access points (both wired and wireless), remote control television, direct dial telephone and tea/coffee making facilities. If you are contemplating a longer stay we recommend staying in one of our “home from home” suites that provide all the facilities of home while you’re away from home. The Old Black Horse is centrally located, easy to find and easy to reach by public or private transport. London and Airport Coaches stop outside and we have a large secure car park.
[edit] Northern Ireland hotels under $150
[edit] Belfast
- Crescent Townhouse - Elegant and intimate, Belfast’s original boutique hotel offers superb accommodation at a very smart price, and an informal but gracious atmosphere that brings delighted guests back time after time. Behind the Crescent Townhouse’s striking 19th century listed façade can also be found the street level cosmopolitan Metro Brasserie, with its wine bar ambience - and the welcoming traditional Bar Twelve. The Crescent Townhouse earns bonus points, though for its unrivalled location. It may be discreetly tucked away, insulated from sight and sound of the bustling Botanic Avenue milieu, but step outside and you are on the doorstep of the best of South Belfast’s nightlife and entertainment.
- Tara Lodge - Tara Lodge enjoys a central location in South Belfast, ten minutes walk from the city centre. Both the Waterfront and Odyssey Arena are an approx. 25 min walk and only a short taxi ride away. We are surrounded by many restaurants, pubs and clubs – something to suit everyone. Convenient to all ports, motorways and airports.
- Malone Guest House - Malone Guesthouse is a recently modernised Victorian house and is located in the heart of one of Belfast's leafier suburbs, Malone. Convenient to many places of interest; to Queen's University and the city's main eductational establishments, Malone Guesthouse is also well positioned for easy access to the main arterial routes for wider exploration. Indeed, Malone Guesthouse is within ten minutes drive of the city centre and, consequently, is near to all major transport links as well as the main, reputable, car hire companies.
- Maranatha Guest House - And anticipate the rest and relaxation that Belfast’s premier addition has to offer. Maranatha House has the perfect offerings of an authentic 18th century Victorian building located minutes from the city centre in the picturesque surroundings of one of the cities oldest and most scenic parks. With a grand mix of classic and contemporary design, your stay with us will be the breath of fresh air you have been waiting for.
[edit] Newcastle
- Donard Hotel - Located in Newcastle at the foot of the beautiful Mourne Mountains the Donard Hotel is ideally situated for a great family holiday, a relaxing weekend break, business or private event. An established, family run hotel, the Donard Hotel provides its guests with the highest standards of comfort and hospitality in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. The Donard has been run by the Maginn family since 1946. We take pride in providing a high-quality service, in a warm friendly atmosphere. Perhaps, this is why families return year after year, to share our hospitality. If you are looking for a perfect spot for a business conference, a relaxing weekend break, or planning a longer stay, we look forward to welcoming you.
- Avoca Hotel - If you are looking for hotels in Ireland, look no further than The Avoca Hotel - on the Central Promenade of Newcastle Co Down, Northern Ireland overlooking the Irish Sea - a 16-bed hotel run by three generations of the same family, noted for the warmth of it's hospitality. We have a number of accommodation options to make your holiday or short break enjoyable. Situated at the foot of the beautiful Mourne Mountains, the Avoca Hotel in Newcastle Co Down is ideally situated to take advantage of Co Down. Whether you seek a strenuous active holiday or a relaxing short break, Newcastle in Co Down, Northern Ireland has all the answers. Our beautiful mountains can be climbed to their heights or just gazed at!
[edit] Scotland hotels under $150
[edit] Edinburgh
- Kildonan Lodge Hotel - Built in 1874 by a wealthy Edinburgh businessman, Kildonan Lodge Hotel is an outstanding example of Victorian elegance. Beautifully restored to capture the atmosphere of a bygone era, it provides the perfect setting for your visit to Scotland's capital. The splendid residents lounge provides a tranquil setting in which guests can relax by an open fire whilst enjoying a dram from the "Honesty Bar". Well-appointed non-smoking bedrooms have for your comfort en-suite bathrooms, direct dial telephone, colour television, radio alarm, hairdryers, welcome tea/coffee tray and many other "nice little touches" to make guests feel at home. Family rooms are available and children are made most welcome. For that special occasion we offer the extra luxury of our 4 poster bedrooms or you might choose to relax in one of our rooms with their very own jacuzzi baths!
- Teviotdale House - Teviotdale House is a fine example of an Edinburgh Townhouse. For many years it has provided first class accommodation combining the attractive Victorian features with modern comfort.
- Borough Hotel - To some, the act of nodding off is entirely independent of geography. Not us. Because even though all goes dark when Mr Sandman comes a calling, the last thing you see (and first thing you see when you wake up) is for us very important indeed. It’s why at Borough our 9 rooms and our two family family rooms have been individually designed and boast the crispest sheets, softest pillows and comfiest beds. Add exceptional personal service (as befits a small luxury hotel) and you’re in dreamland.
- Inverleith Hotel - The Inverleith Hotel is a small privately-run hotel adjacent to the Royal Botanic Gardens in central Edinburgh. A quality bed and breakfast hotel combines the historic slendour of an early Victorian Edinburgh townhouse, with modern guest accommodation in a family hotel. Well located to experience Edinburgh's attractions: Edinburgh Castle, Royal Mile, Edinburgh Old Town, Holyrood Palace, museums, galleries and much more.
- Salisbury Green Hotel - Salisbury Green is Edinburgh’s newest hotel and conference centre - a truly top-quality, distinctive and elegant location for your break or event. Set in beautiful surroundings close to the heart of the city, and part of the University of Edinburgh, Salisbury Green will deliver style and comfort to its guests. The interior design has been carefully developed to reflect the atmosphere and the history of the building and its architecture, and our 36 en-suite bedrooms exude richness and quality. All rooms have internet access and Television with Freeview. For University staff, there’s access to the University intranet.
- Davenport House - Davenport House is a small hotel and can be found in an area of Edinburgh City Centre known as the New Town. The Neoclassical New Town was built between 1776-1840 and in 1995 was designated as a world heritage site by Unesco. The property was bought new in 1820 as a family home for a wealthy merchant and the building retains many of the period features of the Georgian era. The hotel stands in Great King Street, one of Edinburgh's cobbled streets - and is within walking distance of many places of historical interest. The hotel was opened in 1997 after extensive renovations and was refurbished again in June 2005 to provide quality accomodation for both business and tourist clients.
- Gifford House - Gifford House is an elegant stone Victorian Terrace House with lots of character. Centrally located, we are one and a quarter miles south of Princes Street on the main A7. Whether you are touring Scotland on holiday or are here on business, Gifford House affords an ideal base for you to relax and spoil yourself. Edinburgh's major tourist attractions are all easily accessible by foot or a short bus journey. You are guaranteed warm Scottish hospitality from resident owners David and Margaret, who aim to make their guests feel welcome and at home in comfortable surroundings.
- Ballantrae West End - The Ballantrae Hotel offers luxury accomodation in the heart of Edinburgh. Situated in Scotland's capital city, the Ballantrae Hotel offers top-quality three-star bedrooms and four-star self-catering suites, all recently refurbished to a high standard. Minutes from the train and bus stations, and a short stroll to theatres, restaurants, shopping centres and Princes Street, the hotel is an ideal base for anyone visiting Edinburgh on business or leisure. Children are welcome, and a large family room is available. At the rear is a private car park, which is much appreciated by our guests. As well as single and double bedrooms, we offer a family room, and suites with self-catering facilities. Our four-poster bed is ideal for honeymoon couples or anyone taking a romantic break!
- Lairg Hotel - The Lairg Hotel, Edinburgh, Scotland, UK. A family run guest house, close to the city centre, offering Bed and Breakfast accommodation to the corporate traveller and the holiday maker. Edinburgh is a beautiful city, with a rich and colourful past, well worth a visit for pleasure or staying a few extra days if on business. The Lairg guest house is in the Haymarket area of the city, close to the city centre and makes an ideal base for exploring not just Edinburgh, but also the outlying attractions. The Edinburgh International Conference Centre, Princes Street, Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, the Scottish Gallery of Modern Art, Murrayfield Stadium and West Register House (for genealogical research) are all within easy walking distance of The Lairg.
- St.Andrews Guest House- St Andrews House is a small boutique 4 Stars guest house situated in the Corstorphine area of Edinburgh. Built in 1930, the house has been restored to a high standard with a contemporary twist whilst retaining many of the fine original features, furnished with soft tones, real woods and rich fabrics. Facilities in all rooms includes: en suite (large walk-in showers), comfy beds, Plazma TV, DVD, refreshment tray. Extensive continental breakfast menu. Special diets available on request. Private Parking.
[edit] Glasgow
- Kelvingrove Hotel - Exceptional service and excellent accommodation in the heart of Glasgow.
- White House Apartments - Welcome to The White House Apartments, Glasgow's biggest provider of Self–Catering Apartments. The Apartments are situated in the heart of Glasgow's vibrant West End with its abundance of attractions including the Botanical Gardens, Huntarian Museum & Art Gallery. Nearby Byres Road has an eclectic mix of shops, restaurants and bars. We're perfectly located to enable you to enjoy our tranquil surroundings while having the advantage of being close to all main public transport links. Located in a classical Victorian style Crescent, our Apartments are the perfect alternative to standard hotel accommodation, often at a lower price, and only ten minutes from Glasgow City Centre. Whether you're looking for a long or short–term stay, from 1 day, we have the facilities to suit everyone's requirements from a single Studio to a Three Bedroom Apartment. All our Apartments come fully equipped and provide a comfortable haven for our customers to live in – a 'home from home'. Our properties have been independently graded by Visit Scotland and we guarantee a clean, fresh and relaxing environment with friendly staff on hand at all times to ensure you have an enjoyable stay. We look forward to welcoming you to share the unique experience of The White House Apartments for yourself.
- The Old School House - The Old School House, built in the late 18th Century, lies within the Loch Lomond National Park, less than a kilometre from the Loch. The spacious house and garden enjoy panoramic views over farmland and the nature conservation area towards Loch Lomond and the beautiful surrounding mountains. Thirty minutes from Glasgow Airport, the Old School House is the perfect place to stay in the Loch lomond area. Hilary & Stuart welcome you to stay and enjoy their charming top quality accomodation.
- Belhaven Hotel - The Belhaven Hotel offers an intimate 16-room restored Victorian townhouse situated within the heart of Glasgow's cosmopolitan West End. The Belhaven overlooks the city's Great Western Road and is walking distance from the West Ends other vibrant districts such as Byres Road, Woodlands Road and Ashton lane; all of which filled with stylish bars and restaurants. Out with the West End lies Glasgow's fantastic City Centre, credited with the best shopping and nightlife the UK has to offer outside of London. All of which against the back drop of jaw-dropping Victorian architecture and easily and regularly accessible by underground or bus.
- Kelvin Hotel - The Kelvin Hotel is a family owned and managed Bed and Breakfast Hotel. The friendly, personal service and high standards maintained by the Duguid family and their staff ensures that guests enjoy a pleasant and comfortable stay. Ideally located in the Heart of the West End, the Kelvin Hotel is close to an abundance of restaurants & bars, Glasgow Uni, BBC, Botanic Gardens, Art Galleries and much more.
- Dalmeny Park Hotel - The Dalmeny Park Country House Hotel is an impeccably restored Scottish mansion nestling in seven acres of magnificent gardens. The Dalmeny Park Hotel is located in a quiet residential area on the outskirts of Glasgow, only a few miles from Glasgow International Airport and minutes from Glasgow City Centre. As a luxury Glasgow Hotel, the Dalmeny Park provides a full a-la-carte menu of the finest fresh Scottish produce together with an extensive cellar of the finest wines and spirits.
- Black Bull Hotel - Nestling quietly in the picture postcard village of Killearn, the Black Bull is a little gem - a small, intimate family run Scottish inn style hotel of considerable character and charm, big on hospitality, great food and quality service. A very relaxed warm, welcoming and friendly atmosphere will strike you as soon as you enter its modern, softly stylish interior. There has been the Black Bull Hotel - or Inn - in the village square in Killearn for as long as anyone can remember and centuries further back from then. Original features of the old 19th century coaching inn are still retained in the hallway and residents lounge. Today this beautifully appointed, quietly elegant hotel, renowned for its excellent service and exceptional cuisine, offers the widest choice of hospitality to locals, passing tourists, day visitors from Glasgow, leisure and business overnight guests. New owners Daniel and Gillian Stewart are welcoming hosts and whether you wish to call by for Sunday lunch, tea and scones, dinner with friends, a drink in the bar, or reserve a bedroom for a few nights stay, whether you are on business in Scotland, or looking for these well deserved short breaks or holidays in Scotland -- the door is always open.
- Brunswick Hotel - The Brunswick hotel is unique in that it is the only small independent contemporary hotel in Glasgow's bustling city centre. The architecturally acclaimed primavera building which houses the Brunswick in a narrow space within a wide Victorian street is surrounded by beautiful old buildings. Location! Location! Location! One of the most important issues when choosing your city hotel. The Brunswick is within easy access to Glasgow airport (15/20mins by taxi), minutes walk to our two major railway stations (Central & Queen Street), and a main bus station just up the road. Our local tourist information office is 5 minutes walk on our impressive George Square. The Brunswick is also surrounded by some of Glasgow’s best shopping streets, nightclubs, cafes, bars, restaurants, museums, galleries & historical attractions. Apart from all this The Brunswick is great value for money with rooms starting from £55, its style is simple, bold & very friendly. We may not have all the excessive frills of large corporate hotels but our friendly, helpful, laid back approach makes The Brunswick the right choice for your stay in Glasgow.
[edit] Wales hotels under $150
[edit] Cardiff
- Lincoln House Hotel - A warm welcome awaits you at the Lincoln House Hotel, Cardiff, which is privately owned and family run by Neil & Kathy Howard, Son Matthew, and our friendly and helpful staff. Our top priority is to offer a high quality personal service to all our guests. The Victorian house built in 1900 has retained its original features and relaxing atmosphere, with free private car park. For the comfort and safety of our guests smoking is not permitted in bedrooms, for guests wishing to smoke, they can do so in the relaxing atmosphere of our lounge bar. As well as being close to the City Centre, we are within close proximity to the rapidly developing Cardiff Bay. Also Train & Bus Stations.If you are visiting for business or pleasure, Cardiff, one of Europe's fastest growing capital is an ideal base for discovering South Wales.
- Sunbury Hotel - Welcome to the Sunbury Hotel, Cardiff. Our goal is to provide you with useful information about our hotel that makes it easier for you to arrange your stay in Cardiff. The Sunbury Hotel has been serving the tourism industry for over 40 years. It is a family run Hotel which specialises in affordable, quality Bed & Breakfast, close to the centre of Cardiff. Thanks for visiting and we look forward to seeing you.
- Sandringham Hotel - The Sandringham Hotel is a well established family run Hotel with good service and friendly atmosphere. It is situated in the heart of the City of Cardiff and only a few minutes walk from the many Shopping Malls and Arcades, of which the City is justly proud; and, just a 'long pass' from the famous Millennium Stadium. Whether your visit is for business or pleasure, the Sandringham Hotel offers all that the discerning traveller requires and more.
- The Big Sleep Hotel - A design hotel at affordable prices, and recently voted '1 of 25 coolest hotels in the world' - Conde Nast Traveller. The Big Sleep is ideally situated for business, leisure and pleasure in the heart of Cardiff. The hotel occupies a converted 60's office block and commands spectacular views as far as the Severn Bridge. Described as 'super cheap but sexy-chic' - Elle Dec, the interior design is modern retro, the rooms light and comfortable and the service friendly and efficient. Aimed at those who don't want to spend a fortune, but do need somewhere to stay that's different and delivers big value at small prices.
- The Georgian Hotel - The hotel has been restored for the comfort of guest requirements. All rooms are en-suite with hospitality tray, television and radio alarm.(hair drier and ironing facilities are available on request).Both double and twin rooms are available. Giorgio and Marian are confident that you will be delighted in choosing to stay at the Georgian Hotel.
[edit] About the author
By Jim Nealon, a lifelong friend
Canadian Eric Robinson and I lived in the same residence at the University of Waterloo, in Ontario, Canada in 1971. After graduating with a degree in Environmental Studies (BES), majoring in cultural geography, Eric, always a bundle of energy, backpacked around the world in 1974-75. He travelled mostly overland through thirty two countries, including working his way across the South Pacific on a Danish banana boat. He sent postcards and letters back to our group of friends, and we were always excited to read his amazing stories.
Between operating three different hotels in northern Ontario, he travelled (with his family in the later years) throughout much of the Pacific Rim from Japan to Thailand and Viet Nam, Bali, Australia, New Zealand, many South Pacific Islands, Chile, Peru, Columbia and all of Central America and Mexico between 1978 and 1992, compiling information about Third World Eco-Tourism Marketing for his post-graduate thesis at the University of Victoria on Vancouver Island, British Columbia. He finally made San Jose, Costa Rica home-base for himself and his two teenage sons in 1995, operating two more successful hotels, the Hemingway Inn in central San Jose, and presently Adventure Inn in the central valley closer to the airport. Over the past twelve years, Eric has founded three non-profit Costa Rica eco-hotel associations, with a total of over fifty independent hotels strategically located throughout the country. Through his writings, the internet and room, tour and car rental reservations, he has properly advised literally thousands of people with their travel plans, and has built up quite a repertoire of questions that he has direct experience with, or has researched and answered, regarding Third World travel.
Eric's interests, other than writing about his world travels, are his family first, photography, his dogs, establishing litter pick up programs for public school kids in San Jose, Costa Rica, and masters swimming, in which he is a world class competitor. His next competition is the World Championships in Perth, Australia in April, 2008.
Eric believes that honesty in marketing has longevity, telling you both the good and the bad. After seeing the changes tourism has brought to the planet over the last thirty two years, he believes that travellers practising the ecotourism philosophy will help tourism remain sustainable, and the world a bit better place for all to live.Though he knows he is often preaching to the converted, he suggests your stay and travels should impact minimally and only positively on the indigenous physical, cultural, economic and ecological setting. We all need to observe, listen, understand and empathize rather than see, hear, take pictures and boast. If we prefer the familiar comforts of home, ask ourselves why we are traveling? With this approach, future visitors will equally enjoy the experience of an exotic Third World adventure.
I hope Eric and I will always stay in touch. Sometimes I feel I live vicariously through him. These days we use e-mails and MSN. It is so refreshing to hear his thoughts, covered in humour, from whatever corner of the world he may be reporting from.
[edit] Adventure Hotels destinations and qualified hotels from around the world
[edit] Asian hotels
- Japan hotels
- Beijing hotels
- Taiwan hotels
- Taipei hotels
- Macau hotels
- Macao hotels
- Hainan hotels
- Philippines hotels
- Manila hotels
- Hanoi hotels
- Bangkok hotels
- Chiang Mai hotels
- Koh Samui hotels
- Phuket hotels
- Jakarta hotels
- Bali hotels
[edit] Australian hotels
[edit] New Zealand hotels
[edit] Pacific Island hotels
[edit] Micronesia
- The Federated States of Micronesia hotels
- Marshall Islands hotels
- Palau hotels
- Northern Mariana Islands hotels
- Nauru hotels
- Kiribati hotels
- Guam hotels
[edit] Melanesia
[edit] Polynesia
- Cook Islands hotels
- Niue hotels
- Samoa hotels
- Tonga hotels
- American Samoa hotels
- French Polynesia hotels
- Easter Island hotels
[edit] Hawaii
- Hawaii in general
- The Big Island hotels
- Maui hotels
- Moloka'i hotels
- Lana'i hotels
- O'ahu hotels
- Kaua'i hotels
[edit] Central America
[edit] Central America hotels
- Guatemala hotels
- Belize hotels
- Honduras hotels
- El Salvador hotels
- Nicaragua hotels
- Costa Rica hotels
- Panama hotels



