Getting value for money has become vital as people look for ways to stretch their finances without cutting back on luxuries, such as their annual holidays, in light of the tough economic climate. Those spending hours on the Internet looking for the perfect, cost effective getaway may want to consider self catering accommodation such as luxury villas, which can allow them to enjoy their holidays without breaking the bank.
According to recent research published by price comparison website travelsupermarket.com, the average holiday budget has been slashed by nearly a fifth as value for money becomes a determining factor. The average Brit was prepared to splash out £1,014 per person on their main holiday a year ago, but this is not the case in 2011 as the figure has dropped to £829. Furthermore, there has been a shift in spending habits because 78 per cent of Brits now identify cost as a key factor, compared to just 43 per cent six months ago.
With value becoming such a vital factor, settling for the right holiday is vital to ensuring the annual break is not compromised and just as important is taking advantage of discounts, promotions and choosing the correct destination. Luxury villas offer financial advantages because they can allow holidaymakers to enjoy their usual conveniences while making savings on extras such as expensive hotel food and drinks. Those choosing to stay in a villa have full control of their budgets because they have the option of eating out or using available facilities to cook up their own storm using local ingredients.
Because the US economy is still on the path to recovery, a number of destinations in the country have slashed prices in a bid to attract holidaymakers and lucrative deals are to be found in places such as Florida. This reason, alongside the fact that the Sunshine State enjoys favourable weather for the better part of the year, makes Florida villas a particularly appealing prospect. People choosing these self catering accommodation options can relax in private lodges with beautiful pools and enjoy access to some of the world’s most famous attractions, taking pride in the knowledge that they are getting value for their money.
Although those looking to stay in luxury Florida villas for the first time may largely associate the destination with its famous theme parks and resorts, there is a lot more to the south-eastern US state that they will have an opportunity to discover. Away from the high speed rides, golf courses, shopping malls and glitzy night time lighting of the modern age is a stunning natural environment with huge wilderness areas to explore.
The most famous of these natural attractions is the Everglades, which is the largest subtropical wilderness in the country. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Everglades is home to a wide variety of wildlife that makes it worth checking out. Those wishing to explore Florida’s nature by foot, boat, canoe or even swamp buggy can also make their way to Kissimmee, where unspoilt parks and backwaters await them.
For an entirely different environment, albeit a sunny one, people can also jump on a plane and head for a break in Cyprus villas. A Eurasian island nation located in the eastern Mediterranean, Cyprus is a popular villa holiday destination thanks to its wide variety of historical attractions such as the temple to Apollo Ilatis, just outside the city of Limassol, and the Neolithic archaeological site at Choirokoitia.
Despite its geographic proximity to Asia and Africa, the island’s cultural influences are dominated by Western Europe thanks to British colonial rule, giving the destination a blend that is sure to intrigue those on villa holidays. Visitors venturing out on excursions can discover old traditional villages, which feature distinctive winding streets that are contrasted by neatly terraced vineyards and olive groves.
Those on villa holidays can also choose to relax in the destination’s golden, sandy beaches and explore its rugged coastlines, which give way to forest-clad mountains and hills that may have been explored at one time by the goddess Aphrodite, if the old legend of the island being home to her in the past is to be believed.
For a real taste of Cyprus’ culture, people staying in luxury villas can head to the destination’s traditional town squares, which play host to local restaurants, shops and bars that have live Bouzouki music and dancing. There is a wide variety for those looking for culinary treats thanks to local taverns, bars and other eateries, while the main resort of Paphos is the place to head to for a slice of Cyprus’ nightlife.
Editor’s Note: This is a guest post.
Photo Credits: Villa Balcony by Vandelizer
hey Flip, is this the one you’re talking about? cool!
pls chck ur inbox in FB. I have a question. thnx!
You’re right about Florida. I think it’s a good state to visit. The Everglades are a great site to see too. The area got hit hard by the housing crash so I can just imagine villas there are now cheaper.
thanks man… this is actually a guest post… i’ve been to US but only in KY and TN. wish I could go to more National Parks in the US in the future.