The plan follows on from a report last year for the Association of London Government, which represents 32 boroughs, which described the tax as, an ideal minor tax in that it relates to a group that imposes clear costs on authorities but which presently contributes nothing directly towards those costs.

The current proposals, as they stand, could raise the cost of a short UK break by up to ?100 for the average family. While the UK is already, throughout Europe, second only to Denmark in the severity of its taxation levels for tourism, the newly proposed tax would put Britain firmly above the Danes making it the highest taxed holiday destination in the EU, nearly three times the European average.

The idea which is presently under consideration by Sir Michael Lyons, who is tasked to review the plans for future local government financing, however the Liberal Democrats warned that implementing such a move could be disastrous for the entire ?12bn UK tourism sector.

Liberal Democrat culture spokesman Don Foster told the BBC, When you think that VAT on tourist-related activities in this country is 17.5 per cent, whereas in the rest of Europe it is 8.5 per cent and in countries like France 5.5 per cent, these tourists use services, but they are certainly already paying for them.

Industry news publisher Caterer and Hotelkeeper has been joined by the UK hotel big hitter, Travelodge, along with the British Hospitality Association (BHA) and the Tourism Alliance (an umbrella group of 45 trade associations), to formally lobby against the plans. Another hotel industry heavyweight, Hilton, spokeswoman said the company strongly supported the BHA’s efforts.

While Travelodge has set up its own online petition, the deputy chief executive of the BHA, Martin Couchman, said the organisation encouraged its members to lobby independently, a message which online UK hotel directory Superbreak has taken to heart, with its own petition, in an ongoing campaign to bring prices down.

A recent Travelodge survey of 2,000 UK consumers, revealed that 85% already believe UK hotels are too expensive, a perception that will only be exacerbated by a 10% price hike. Current predictions by the tourist industry indicate the impact of the tax could lead to the possible loss of up to ?1.3bn and 32,000 jobs if the tax were to be introduced.

Don Foster commented, We have got a problem and anything like a bed tax that would put people off from coming to this country would be a real disaster.

Submitted by: Michael Hanna

About Michael Michael is a keen writer, and internet marketer living in Scotland:

Contact details: E-mail: samqam@googlemail.com Phone: 0131 561 2251 Michael’s Website: Taxi Belfast Airport Belfast Taxis

First things first – why Byron Bay, and where is it?

Byron Bay is a town 800km (~500 miles) north of Sydney and south of Brisbane, on the north coast of New South Wales (NSW). It has a population of approx. 9,000 people, with the larger Byron Shire having close to 30,000 people living in its boundaries.

With average summer daytime temperatures of 28C (~82F), and average winter daytime temperatures of 21C (~69F), both locals and visitors enjoy plenty of outdoor activities, due to the moderate but very pleasant climate.

Byron Bay is truly a destination for all seasons because of these lovely temperatures and the beautiful environment. If you’ve never been to Byron Bay before, it’s approximately 2 hours drive south of Brisbane and a 40 minute drive south of the Gold Coast. The area offers a year round tropical paradise of beaches and rainforests, and is an extremely popular tourist destination.

Spectacular blue watered beaches invite even the sun-shy to come out and explore Byron Bay. Naturally enough, there is an impressive range of luxury byron bay accommodation, including resorts, apartments and hotels. Just make sure you bring your swimming ‘togs’ so you don?t miss out on a refreshing dip in the beautiful waters.

While you are visiting Byron Bay, why not try some of the great local activities, such as rain forest tours, bush walking, hang gliding, sky diving, ultra-light flights, Harley tours, cycling, canoeing, surfing, scuba diving, snorkeling, horse riding, deep sea fishing, vintage car tours and Australia’s only flying trapeze school.

And when the sun finally disappears behind the hills you can dine at one of Byron Bay’s many superb, award winning restaurants, enjoy a local band or theatrical production… or stroll along a serene moonlit beach, looking forward to your next day in paradise.

If your tastes in accommodation are a little up-market, then the best resource for finding and choosing Byron Bay accommodation is the Simply Lush Luxury Accommodation directory (www.simplylush.com). This page is the gateway to their luxury Byron Bay accommodation listings.

They review and recommend beautiful beach houses (check out the front deck view of the ocean from Pips), Tuscan guest houses (Victoria’s has an awesome swimming pool) and villas, apartments, bungalows and so forth.

I guarantee you’ll be excited by the choice of luxurious Byron Bay accommodation sites on Simply Lush’s website.

For more information on these and other luxury Byron Bay accommodation choices, be sure to check out the Simply Lush website: Luxury Australian Accommodation.

Standing alongside the scenic River Tiber, Rome has a population of almost 3 million and experiences hot summer weather and particularly mild, pleasant winters. With year-round attractions, many people choose to visit Rome between November to February, when the city is at its quietest.

Rome Hotels:

Being one of Italy’s most popular tourist destinations, it is hardly surprising that Rome is full of hotels, catering for all tastes and budgets. Ranging from impressive hotels in the Centro Storico (historic centre), to more modern accommodation around the Campo dei Fiori, hotels in Rome quickly become fully booked, and so be sure to reserve your room in advance. Bed and breakfasts in Rome are known as ‘pensioni’ and often provide particularly good value for money, with a number being located close to the ‘Stazione Termini’ railway station and Trastevere area.

Rome Tourism:

Rome has long been a major tourist destination and its historical attractions and important ruins are known throughout the world. However, the city is also an exciting and vibrant place to visit, with many impressive shops, restaurants, entertainment venues and seasonal festivals. Some of the most popular places to visit in Rome include the Circus Maximus, the Coliseum, the Forum, the Pantheon, Janiculum Hill, the Trevi Fountain, the Spanish Steps, and the vast Vatican City, the official residence of the Pope, head of the Roman Catholic faith. The Sistine Chapel at the Vatican City is particularly awe-inspiring, together with the city’s numerous art galleries and museums.

Popular events in the city include many operas, ballets and concerts at Rome’s numerous theatres. Other seasonal highlights include regular football matches at the Stadio Olimpico, the Rome Marathon each March, religious events throughout Easter, concerts at the Teatro Olimpico, June’s Pesaro Film Festival, and also the Festa della Madonna della Neve, held every August.

Rome Transport:

With good rail connections to a number of major cities, including Florence and Venice, Rome is well-connected by highways, which provide easy access to nearby towns. Rome’s Metro subway network, public buses and trams all provide inexpensive ways to travel throughout the city. Car rental is one of the most popular ways to travel out of the city and is perfect for day trips and excursions.

Located around 18 miles / 29 km from the city centre, Leonardo da Vinci Airport, also known as Fiumicino, is an important air transport hub. Dealing with large numbers of domestic and international flights each day, ground transportation at the airport includes buses, trains and car hire.

Rome Shopping:

Known for its chic fashion boutiques and expensive department stores, shopping in Rome is a major attraction. With many bustling shops clustered around the Piazza Di Spagna, other popular stores can be found around the city’s Via Del Governo Vecchio area, close to the Spanish Steps, along the Via Sistina, and on Via Borgognona. Also, the pedestrianized Via Frattina is the perfect place for some serious window shopping.

Rome Restaurants:

Home to one of the greatest cuisines in the world, Italian restaurants are known for their superb local specialities, which include freshly made pizzas, pasta dishes, paninis, salads, a selection of cheeses and many other types of food. Al fresco dining is particularly popular in Rome, with an array of cafes, bars and superb ice cream shops clustered around the piazzas.

Nia Rees writes for: World Guides to Rome

For further information about the airport, visit Airports Guides to Rome at: Information About Rome Fiumicino Airport (FCO).

Whilst details concerning Rome Ciampino Airport can be found at: Information About Rome Ciampino Airport (CIA).

New Zealand is becoming more and more popular as a tourist destination during the northern hemisphere winter so the summers in New Zealand are becoming more populated.

Booking is encouraged during the peak summer season 1st December until the end of February. November and March are also very busy with these months in the shoulder seasons. Prices are not as high during these two months.

If you really want to stay anywhere, when ever you want you will find 1st May until the end of September quiet, with great deals for accommodation, vehicles, and activities. The middle of this period is New Zealand’s winter with the ski areas around New Zealand open for business.

Winter can be cold in the south but no colder than the UK or somewhere like San Francisco, if you holiday at the top of the North Island you will have warmer weather with temperatures around the same as a winter in Sydney.

Whenever you travel to New Zealand you will find accommodation that your holiday deserves.

http://www.newzealandatoz.com New Zealand AtoZ provides useful New Zealand free information and advice to travellers, including a full list of all New Zealand car, motorhome and campervan rental companies along with their daily hire rates.

Your complete guide to New Zealand.

In the major cities there are many 5 star hotels which will be able to cater to every wish and desire of their guests, but also there is a high quality of service offered from the smaller guest houses, which have a much cosier feel and offer what some would call a more peaceful environment! If you wish to get back to nature and stay in the wilds of Africa, there is an awful lot to choose from. South Africa is brimming with camp site, in which you can stay in your tent, caravan or motor home, these have either floor stands or you can have a power socket too. Safari Tents are also a popular and affordable accommodation type, these are just permanent tents with single beds inside, and they are incredibly comfy and give all the excitement of camping without the hassle of putting up and taking down!

The opposite end of the spectrum from camping is probably the luxury game lodges that are available across the country. These lodges are incredibly luxurious, with the best of everything available. The best of these lodges offer amazing wildlife viewing and many often have a deck over a waterhole or other game viewing area, where you can relax on your veranda, with a glass of South African red wine in your hand and watch the Big 5 in there natural habitat. What ever type of accommodation you chose to stay in while in South Africa, you are sure to have an enjoyable and comfortable holiday in this beautiful country.

Visit Explore South Africa for information on accommodation in South Africa to ensure that your holiday is a safe and memorable one.

There are totally about 80,000 accommodation facilities for travelers in Japan which could be classified as Japanese style and western style. Most of the low price accommodation will not provide private toiletry and bathroom and have to share publicly. Besides, most of the owners do not know English. In general, the check in time would be around 15:00-16:00, and the check out time is 10:00.

1. Youth Hostel
There are about 400 Youth Hostel in Japan, and most of them are private-owned. Resident must be the member of the Youth Hostel or otherwise they have to pay a higher charge. In general, the accommodation cost would be around JPY 3,000 to 3,500 per night depending on the location and facilities. Most of the Youth Hostel provides breakfast and dinner with separate charges since the room has no kitchen facilities. It is suggested to contact your local Youth Hostel Association and book the Youth Hostel in Japan in advance. Otherwise, you have to pay a higher charge for on-site booking, and remember you have to bring your photo to become member.

2. Minshuku (Living with Family)
Minshuku is a family style accommodation, and it has a higher charges compared to Youth Hostel, at around JPY 4,000-6,000 per night including breakfast and dinner. Most of the Minshuku have around 10-20 living units, and most of them are located at resort areas or small town. Many of the Minshuku are franchised with unique logo but it is quite difficult to locate if you don not know Japanese. Therefore, if you want to find a better priced one, it is better to find a friend who know Japanese to book the room for you.

3. Ryokan (Japanese Styles Motel)
Ryokan has a better facility than Minshuku with a slightly higher charge. It is usually located around the railway station in towns but most of the staffs would not know English. Accommodation cost would be around JPY 3,000 to 5,000 not including meals. You may contact an organization called ?Japanese Inn Group? which provided English information about its franchised Ryokan.

4. Capsule Hotel
Capsule Hotel is the same as its name; the room is just like a capsule or a box with 3 meter long and 1 meter high, providing TV, small safe and a small desk. Your luggage has to be kept in the storeroom separately. Most of the Capsule Hotels are for male only, but now starting to accepts female guests. Capsule Hotels are usually located at the big city downtown with room charges at around JPY 3,000 to 4,000. You have to consider whether you could cater yourself in such a compact area before you make the reservation.

5. Business Hotel
There are many Business Hotels for local traveled businessmen. The hotel room is quite compact but with private bathroom facilities. The room charge is ranging from JPY 6,000 to 7,000. Most of the Business Hotels locate at downtown, railway station or subway station and you may find their pamphlets at the railway station counter.

6. Western Style Hotel
Western Style Hotels are located at the downtown of all major cities with room rates starting at JPY 6,000 not included meals.

About the Author: Sammy Ho has been a specialist traveler who has traveled many parts of the world. His specialists are to study different culture and living hobbies of different countries, and to learn from each place he has traveled. To find more travelers tips, hotel information and flight information in Japan, please visit website: http://geniuschoice.com/flights-japan/

No visit to Syracuse is complete without enjoying the comfortable tourist resort areas of Arenella and Fontane Bianche flanking the typical sandy beaches of the Ionian coast. Moreover, The broad waterfront of the Island of Ortigia, is an ideal place from which to appreciate the unique panoramic view of Porto Grande that witnessed great battles and from where a boat trip can be taken to the lovely small sandy beach of Punta del Pero.

The Bed and Breakfast Headquarters together with our affiliates and formula economy studio flats are centrally located in the historical centre. Other charming Bed and Breakfast Hotels are situated by Ortigia?s promenade form where one can enjoy the breathtaking sea view. It is important to add that parking is not a problem and that in less than an hour from Syracuse, the tourist can take trips to other nearby centres. It is a pity that most visitors are convinced to make day trips to Syracuse, hence being deprived of the high spirit and profound soul of Syracuse, which reflect the genius of the inventor Archimedes and past civilisations. So let?s not leave Syracuse only on the UNESCO world heritage list, but annotate it on your next tour to Sicily; just try it to believe and have a wonderful Sleep in Sicily time in this remarkable city by the sea!

Since 1990 committed in organising tours in Europe and specialised in incoming Italy ITALY HOTEL ITALY TRAVEL ITALY TOUR.

The most common travel mistake with children is Las Vegas or Reno in Nevada. While the tourism industries of both cities have been trying to make the towns into family vacation destinations (Las Vegas a bit more than Reno), these towns are not originally geared toward family.

There is very little in either city that is great for children, and anything that is can be easily replicated in other locations. Besides, if you’re planning on going to Las Vegas, you probably plan on doing at least a little gambling – which is something you should save for an adults- only vacation getaway.

The preferred choice for many parents with children is Disney theme parks. These parks are often the best choice for children over five and under twelve. Children over twelve may well still like it, too. Children under five, especially those under three, might find it difficult to spend the whole day there and later they will hardly remember their visit to Disney.

You should keep in mind, however, that Disney parks are an energetic vacation destination. These are not good places to go for a relaxing time, since they tend to be crowded, and there is always something new to go and see. With younger children, expect cranky afternoons.

For a more relaxed family vacation, you should think about a destination like Hawaii. While Hawaii is not geared specifically toward children, there are still plenty of things for you to do depending on which island you’re staying on.

Hawaii is the best place for a family vacation with children who are ten or older. The reason is that most entertainment activities are suitable for older children – for example Pearl Harbor. If you visit it and your children are too young, they will hardly figure out the significance of the place.

Another suggestion for a family vacation with children is cruise ships. When choosing to spend your vacation on a cruise ship, there are some important facts to consider.

First, it is most likely that you will share a cabin with your family and there won~t be enough room for everybody’s liking. But since there are so many things to do outside the cabin, it shouldn~t be too much of a problem to view the cabin as a sleeping spot rather than a permanent hang-out.

Also, cruise ships are not the ideal choice for teenagers. Teenagers are in a difficult position because on one hand the majority of programs for children are targeted at children under twelve and on the other hand, teenagers are still not old enough to participate in entertainment for adults (casinos, lounges, etc.) But in any case there is the benefit that you will witness marvelous ocean views and will visit many different ports. Watch out for whales!

The conclusion is that choosing the destination for your family vacation is firmly up to you! You are the one who knows best what is interesting for your children and what is not. Take into account what is suitable for them and what is preferred by you, choose a destination or vacation package which offers the best combination of things which appeal to all of you — and you’re halfway to a great trip already.

Andrew Westforth is the owner and operator of FHT Travel — a large and comprehensive collection of information on travel, including articles, resources and a free newsletter.

For great travel information, go to: http://www.fhttravel.com

In the major cities there are many 5 star hotels which will be able to cater to every wish and desire of their guests, but also there is a high quality of service offered from the smaller guest houses, which have a much cosier feel and offer what some would call a more peaceful environment! If you wish to get back to nature and stay in the wilds of Africa, there is an awful lot to choose from. South Africa is brimming with camp site, in which you can stay in your tent, caravan or motor home, these have either floor stands or you can have a power socket too. Safari Tents are also a popular and affordable accommodation type, these are just permanent tents with single beds inside, and they are incredibly comfy and give all the excitement of camping without the hassle of putting up and taking down!

The opposite end of the spectrum from camping is probably the luxury game lodges that are available across the country. These lodges are incredibly luxurious, with the best of everything available. The best of these lodges offer amazing wildlife viewing and many often have a deck over a waterhole or other game viewing area, where you can relax on your veranda, with a glass of South African red wine in your hand and watch the Big 5 in there natural habitat. What ever type of accommodation you chose to stay in while in South Africa, you are sure to have an enjoyable and comfortable holiday in this beautiful country.

Visit Explore South Africa for information on accommodation in South Africa to ensure that your holiday is a safe and memorable one.

The Rating System
The star system was created to help guests judge how good a hotel is. Star ratings symbolise the level of standards a guest can expect and are recognised worldwide. Ranging from 1 ? 5, the quality of service, amenities, size and condition of rooms and building, safety and security, atmosphere, quality of food and drink, hotel presence and efficiency of staff are judged.

1 Star
Practical accommodation. Don’t expect anything more than the absolute basics. The shower room is likely to be down the hall, but remember, it’s the cheapest accommodation. If you’re looking for a bargain, and don’t mind not having en-suite facilities, don’t hesitate to consider one-star hotels
? just check the room first. Go for one that offers clean sheets and a nice neighbourhood. It may be cheap but you don’t want to slum it next door to a crack den!

2 Star
Although many offer en-suite facilities you may find in some hotels there is still a need to share the shower room down the hall with other guests. You’ll have a colour television, a comfortable bed, and a restaurant/dining room for breakfast and dinner.

3 Star
Private bathrooms in the (usually smallish) room colour television, occasionally even a mini bar, a phone, laundry service (optional) and a more formal style of service along with the opportunity for room service during certain times to be expected.

4 Star
Four-star hotels are spacious and have the creature comforts with a touch more luxury, including private baths in addition to a strong emphasis on food and beverage, 24-hour room service and a dry cleaning service available. More often in well situated locations.

5 Star
Simply the best. The interiors will be of the highest standards. Opulent, stylish and of absolute luxury. Nothing is too much for guests. Exceptional comfort, 24 hour room service, luxury amenities, for example, spas or star rated restaurants serving superb cuisine are the norm. The concierge will be only too happy to get you want at whatever time of the day, (so long as it’s legal). You will feel very well cared for by professional, attentive staff providing a flawless service. This is the kind of luxury dreams are made of.

The star definitions should be treated as a general guide to what you should expect from a star rated hotel as there is yet no definitive worldwide standardisation available.

Because of this, it can sometimes be abused and you could find yourself booking into a hotel that just doesn’t come up to what you believe to be adequate for its rating.

Due to the lack of consistency in hotel ratings around the world you could find yourself staying in, for example, a three-star hotel abroad which may be better than a three-star hotel in your native country. But be warned, it can go either way and you could find yourself in a less than desirable hotel with exactly the same star rating.

Keep in mind it is your right to view a room before you commit to staying in it. Ask to do so.

Recommendation
If you’re thinking of booking into a hotel, but don’t know what it’s like, www.gate14.co.uk suggests you take the following steps.

Ask trusted friends with similar tastes to recommended somewhere

Alternatively, search the name of your intended hotel and read impartial hotel reviews from people who have stayed in the accommodation.

Reviews can be seen at Holiday Watchdog. It’s free to use and you can even submit a review of your own.

If you would like to see special offers in accommodation, go to http://www.gate14.co.uk/SV4.html.

Lee Fullman is a travel journalist and researcher. His contributions of valuable travel secrets can be seen at web portal http://www.gate14.co.uk/journey.html For further contact email departing@gate14.co.uk